Good morning, Worcester.

Heywood Healthcare of Gardner will soon offer fully subsidized childcare for employees facing financial need using an $800K state grant awarded to United Way of North Central Massachusetts—this pilot program partners with the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts and Upwards to boost workforce retention.

Restaurant Depot plans to open a 50,000-square-foot wholesale warehouse at WBDC's GreenTech Park soon, making it the park's first business and a new local resource.

Authorities continue searching for Elliott Blackwell (91) who left his home at 308 Cutler Road on July 8 in Warren; police, state rescue teams, and local units combed woods and waterways and will resume the search this weekend.

Retired Worcester Superintendent Maureen Binienda signed a one-year contract with Blackstone-Millville Regional School District for the 2026-2027 school year.

She can work while drawing her pension under a state waiver and has filled interim roles since retiring in 2022.

Massport announced on Friday, Jul.

17 that Worcester Regional Airport served a record 231,000 passengers in fiscal 2026, up 4% from the prior year, as American Airlines added a flight to Philadelphia + JetBlue maintained strong Florida routes.

Due to poor air quality from Canadian wildfires affecting the Northeast, local pet owners are advised to limit outdoor time for vulnerable pets and monitor for signs like coughing or sneezing.

Dr. Gary Richter recommends keeping windows closed and offering indoor enrichment (like frozen treats) to help keep pets safe.

Renovation of the historic Bowker House at 3 Harvard Place, off Harvard Street, nears completion by owners Steven and Rosemary Taylor, who will finish interior upgrades including an elevator for three living units by year's end.

On Friday, Gov. Healey and state officials honored Celtics legend Bob Cousy by dedicating the Bob Cousy Pass on the I-290 over Southbridge Street in Worcester.

Cousy, who has lived here for nearly 80 years, said he felt a strong connection to the city.

On July 26, Worcester will host the George Street Bike Challenge, a hill climb event honoring Major Taylor that invites elite and community riders to tackle an 18% slope over 500 ft.

The festival runs on Main Street from 10 a.m. to noon with vendors and an after-party at Moynagh’s Tavern.

Miss Fairchild Concert

8-11 p.m. — Off The Rails — Ticketed event — Enjoy an evening of live music with Miss Fairchild in Worcester.

Comedy Night with Christine Hurley

Doors 6:30 PM — Samuel Slater's Restaurant — Tickets required — Enjoy a night of laughs with top comedians Christine Hurley and James Dorsey.

Ekoh Concert

7-10 p.m. — Palladium — Tickets from $47 — Experience the electrifying live performance of hip-hop artist Ekoh.

Worcester Red Sox vs. Lehigh Valley IronPigs

12:05-1:05 p.m. — Polar Park — $40-$50 — Reserve your parking now for a thrilling game between rivals at Polar Park.

Summer Dance Intensive Week

Various times — The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts — Cost information not specified — A week-long immersive program for young dancers to explore various dance styles and techniques.

Sonoma at the Beechwood: 5-Course Beer Dinner

Join Sonoma Restaurant at the Beechwood Hotel on Thursday, August 13, for an exclusive Five-Course Summer Beer Dinner featuring chef-crafted cuisine expertly paired with premium craft beers from some of New England's finest breweries. Tickets are $85 per person; reservations are required by calling 508-453-1174.