Good morning, Worcester.

On Wednesday, Aug. 5, teens from 508 C.H.E.E.R.S. presented proposals on mental health, food insecurity and after-school programs at the Youth Voice Summit at Clark University (meeting with local officials) following a six-week volunteer course.

A vegan restaurant called The Vegan Path will open at 56 Water St, the former Queen's Cups space, after its license was approved on Aug.

6. Owner Tao Zhou plans a soft launch next month and an official opening in October with healthier plant-based dishes like tofu burgers and falafel.

Hopkinton-based Isto Biologics announced Tuesday it acquired Florida's NovaBone Products for $60 million to expand its bone graft offerings for surgeons — its first purchase under new private equity ownership.

The firm aims to broaden its synthetic bone graft portfolio used in over 15,000 monthly U.S. procedures.

MassBenchmarks reported Massachusetts’ economy grew 2% in Q2, with payrolls up 1.1% and Boston's inflation at 13.1% annually.

The snapshot projects GDP gains of 2.3% in Q3 and 2.5% in Q4, offering a modest outlook for the state.

Worcester health leaders voted on Aug.

3 for Commissioner Seema Dixit to study the impact of ending TPS on local health care jobs and families. City officials, including Mayor (Joseph Petty) and City Manager Eric Batista, are planning how to replace essential workers and address potential family separations.

On Aug. 5, the FDA approved an mRNA seasonal flu vaccine for adults 50+ that offers improved influenza protection over standard vaccines.

UMass Chan Medical School researcher Li Li says the breakthrough could accelerate mRNA drug development & lead to other therapies, though challenges remain for non-vaccine treatments.

Busy families in Worcester can ease fall mornings with smart back-to-school tips for lunch-prep—options include reusable bento boxes, meal kit services, and discounted warehouse club memberships to help simplify daily routines.

Since 1996, Khrystian King has led the Kingsway Summer League at Crompton Park and was honored on Wed., Aug.

5 for 30 years of uniting local high school teams, fans, and former players. His work has built a strong network connecting inner city and suburban communities (a lasting impact on local youth sports).

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.