Good morning, Worcester.

Megan MacBride of the Better Business Bureau of Central New England warned travelers about five vacation scams—including fake rentals, hidden fees, and hotel fraud—and advised checking information and using trusted websites.

Her guidance will help consumers avoid these deceptive offers when planning vacations.

UniBank CEO Michael Welch announced a new full-service branch in Kelly Square — filling a long-standing gap in the area — that offers a new mortgage program in partnership with Habitat for Humanity and commits 10% of its income to local charities.

On Tuesday, Aug. 26, Smoothie King launched its first-ever food menu called Power Eats featuring loaded toasts and protein boxes—a deal that gives Healthy Rewards members a $9.99 bundle for a loaded toast with a 20-ounce Enjoy a Treat smoothie until Sept.

2. The chain will add Egg Clouds and Savory Chicken Tenders in early 2026.

Grammy-nominated Worcester rapper Joyner Lucas released his album ADHD 2 in July with songs that reflect his life and style.

He marked his 37th birthday on Aug. 17 when the city renamed a part of Dewey Street as Joyner Lucas Avenue—honoring his hometown roots.

Brian Allen—a Worcester native with over 32 years in our schools—started his tenure as superintendent today; he will use his financial skills to support principals while following the existing five-year plan amid funding challenges.

Massachusetts lawmakers are considering (House Bill 4431) to allow real money online gaming starting in 2026 while stopping sweepstakes sites.

The bill, filed by Rep. David K. Muradian, Jr. on August 18, would let Encore Boston Harbor, MGM Springfield and Plainridge Park start up to three online casino brands each and include rules such as age limits, deposit caps and no credit card payments.

Massachusetts is studying how to add online casinos to its gambling system—legislators plan to weigh revenue potential against the risk of gambling problems.

They will look at models in other states to decide on rules that keep players safe.

Worcester voters began casting early ballots at the Public Library from Aug.

25—Aug. 29 in the preliminary election. The votes will decide which candidates for city council and the District E School Committee move on to the general election on Sept. 2.

Christina Bailey-Hytholt, a WPI assistant professor, studies the placenta to boost prenatal and women’s health with engineering techniques.

Her lab, which received an NSF grant, looks at how placental cells communicate—work that may lead to better care for moms and babies.

Greylock Park in Shrewsbury gives locals a peaceful walk with a paved path, wildflowers, and a small playground where children play.

Visitors must keep dogs leashed and observe residential parking rules along Harrington Avenue.

Dawes Concert

7 p.m. — Tree House Brewing Company — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of live music at a popular local brewery.

Thousand Below Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Palladium — Cost not specified — Experience the atmospheric and emotional sounds of Thousand Below in an engaging live performance.

Matt Soper: Easy Season Performance

1-5 p.m. — Janine's Frostee — Free entry — Enjoy the lush harmonies and unique renditions of popular songs from the 80s, 90s, and 00s.

The Pike RokFest 2025

12:00 – 1:30 p.m. — Indian Ranch — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a day of tribute performances featuring classic rock hits from iconic bands.

Dorothy Concert

7-9 p.m. — Palladium — $51 — Enjoy a last-minute concert experience with Dorothy in Worcester's vibrant music scene.

Kaleo Concert

6:30 p.m. — Tree House Brewing Company — Resale tickets available — Enjoy an evening of live music at the Summer Stage.

Wachusett Brew Yard 0.0 Road Race

2-6 p.m. — Wachusett Brewing Company — Registration fee benefits charity — A fun non-race event supporting Boston Children's Hospital with food, drinks, and music.

Family Day at Free Play Bar & Arcade

11 AM – 5 PM — Freeplay Bar Arcade — $12 admission — Enjoy a day filled with arcade games, skee ball, air hockey, and pinball with the whole family.

Trombone Shorty Live

7-11 p.m. — Tree House Brewing Company — Entry details not specified — Enjoy an electrifying performance from the renowned Trombone Shorty.

Social Friday - Urbano & Bachata Night

7-11 p.m. — 961 Restaurant — Limited tickets available — Enjoy live performances and electrifying music at Worcester's hottest Urbano & Bachata night.