Good morning, Worcester.

At Polar Park on Sunday, July 26, the WooSox honored 15-year-old Ayuen Leet by letting her run the bases during the Home Run for Life game as she recovers from a car crash that left her in a coma two years ago.

New housing and public investments have drawn small business owners to downtown North Central, as lower rents and increased activity support their move — local leaders say the entrepreneurs are key to revitalizing the area.

Massachusetts employers using artificial intelligence in hiring must review how their systems work (state advisory issued in 2024) and test for bias to meet anti-discrimination laws, while pending legislative changes may require greater transparency and human oversight.

Mapfre U.S.A., based in Webster, announced an all-cash $1.54B deal to acquire Boston-based Safety Insurance Group, which will operate as its subsidiary.

The deal is slated to close in Q1 2027 and could raise net income by over 5% within three years, with funding from Citibank + Deutsche Bank.

Worcester’s original Shredded Wheat factory and its surrounding neighborhood were added to the National Register of Historic Places on July 26, marking the site of Henry Perky’s 1890s invention; the historic building has been converted to apartments — preserving the city’s industrial legacy.

Colleges in Central Massachusetts, including eight in the city, are pursuing new strategies to address rising costs, shifting policies, and enrollment challenges after Anna Maria and Becker closed — officials say these measures aim to secure their future.

Multiple local organizations are collecting school supplies and personal items for families as students prepare for the new school year, with distribution events planned in August and registration due by July 29 (including drives at Benchmark at Tatnuck Park and Catholic Charities sites).

Luis Pedraja, who has led QCC since 2017, reflects on his legacy of boosting enrollment and strengthening finances as he prepares to retire next year.

Gov. Healey must opt into the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit program to secure new federal funds for Massachusetts schools and community programs.

The program set to take effect on Jan. 1 may bring in up to $660 million annually through tax-credit donations (benefiting over 90% of local students).

An area of Lake Quinsigamond remained closed to fishing and swimming Monday because officials found elevated E. coli levels after a 15,000-gallon wastewater leak near 23 Southwest Cutoff (Route 20) and planned further testing that day.

The Pan-Mass Challenge will begin on Aug.

1 at Holy Cross in Worcester as about 6,000 riders take on routes from 25 to 177 miles to raise funds for cancer research (benefiting Dana-Farber Cancer Institute).

A Connecticut-based real estate firm is proposing a 207-unit housing development on Worcester Academy's former ballfields.

The project remains in early discussion as officials review the plan.

Worcester Bravehearts rallied from a 10-4 deficit for a 14-10 win in the Futures Collegiate League on Sunday, and Lou Gehrig advanced in the Junior League East Regional with a 23-1 win in Dubois, Pa.

Local American Legion baseball and softball games were held Monday at Fino Field.

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.

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.