Good morning, Worcester.

A Worcester man pleaded not guilty to eight charges including murder after claiming his 4-year-old daughter died in a fall from a kitchen table last year—prosecutors say her severe injuries and signs of abuse on his other children suggest a pattern of neglect and he will return to court on Aug. 28.

Federal agents arrested a mother of three on May 8 at Eureka Street amid a crowd of more than 30 people who confronted them — court records now show her assault charge has been dismissed.

A local woman from Spencer was sentenced by a federal judge on July 24th to time served, one day in prison, and three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to misusing Social Security benefits with COVID economic aid — she will also pay $45,154 in restitution — according to federal prosecutors.

Wrestling star Hulk Hogan, who wrestled 15 times in Worcester during the 1980s and later, died yesterday at age 71.

He had matches at the Worcester Memorial Auditorium and the Centrum — including two on TV — that showed his strong bond with local fans.

Netflix released the final three episodes of Building the Band on July 23—Girl Group 3Quency won $500,000, while Boston's Katie Roeder led her band SZN4 to a second-place finish.

Massachusetts contestants Bradley Rittmann and Northborough's Zach Newbould also competed before being eliminated.

Worcester District 5 Councilor Etel Haxhiaj pleaded not guilty to charges linked to an ICE protest on Eureka Street and said she helped immigrant families while vowing to keep serving her neighbors.

Her attorney filed a motion to dismiss the charges and a judge will review the case in September—she added that community projects like installing speed bumps and hosting a family event remain her priority.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health announced that mosquito samples on Willow Road tested positive for West Nile Virus, and spraying will occur on Aug.

22 in select Worcester areas. Residents in these areas are urged to follow safety measures—such as closing windows during application—to reduce exposure.

Residents in Worcester can host a casino-themed games night with classic card games like Texas Hold 'Em, blackjack, and roulette — adding themed drinks and creative décor to set a fun, risk-free vibe at home.

The George Street Bike Challenge will take place on July 27 when riders will check in at 8:30 a.m. outside Garden Fresh Courthouse Cafe at 204 Main St.—The event will include a time trial starting at 10 a.m. and a new bike swap and fair on north Main Street.

Berry Festival at Hollis Hills Farm

11 AM-4 PM — Hollis Hills Farm — Free entry — Delight in berry picking, ice cream, and local vendors for a fruity family experience.

Jake Owen Concert with Uncle Kracker

1-2:30 p.m. — Indian Ranch — Tickets available — Experience country hits under the sun with Jake Owen and Uncle Kracker.

Lukas Nelson Live Performance

7-11 p.m. — Tree House Brewing Company — Tickets available — Experience the soulful sounds of GRAMMY Award-winning artist Lukas Nelson in an intimate setting.

Flipturn Concert

7 p.m. — Tree House Brewing Company — Resale tickets available — Experience the indie rock vibes of flipturn as they perform tracks from their new album.

Drive By Truckers Live Concert

6-10 p.m. — Tree House Brewing Company — Check the event page for ticket prices — Enjoy an evening with the Southern rock legends performing live.

2025 Backpack Giveaway & Free Haircuts

12-4 p.m. — Fuller Family Park — Free entry — Enjoy free food, haircuts, and live performances at this community-focused event.

Lehigh Valley IronPigs vs. Worcester Red Sox

1:05-2:35 p.m. — Polar Park — Ticket prices vary — Catch the thrilling action as the IronPigs face off against the Red Sox at Polar Park.

Idobi Summer School

5:00 – 6:30 PM — Palladium — Free entry — Experience the unique sounds of Beauty School Dropout, a rising Renegade-Pop band from Los Angeles.

Golf Fundamentals for Beginners

6-7 p.m. — Cyprian Keyes Golf Club — Learn the basics of golf in a fun and supportive environment with a PGA Professional.

Worcester Chapter AGO Organists Artist Showcase

12-1 p.m. — Mechanics Hall — Free entry — Experience the artistry of local organists performing on the historic Worcester Organ.