Good morning, Worcester.

Four new stores will open at The Shops at Blackstone Valley in 2027 as part of a 35,000 sqft retail expansion planned in two new, pedestrian-friendly buildings in Millbury — the lineup includes First Watch, Caffe Nero, Topcoat Nail Bar & Spa, and Lovesac.

Worcester shoppers have seen inflation push up prices for everyday items like eggs and cars over the past five years (rising gas and mortgage costs add to the strain on household budgets).

Local experts say these trends have forced residents to adjust how they spend their money.

Worcester designated 30 acres of GreenTech Park as a tax increment financing zone to ready the former Saint-Gobain campus for future manufacturing and commercial development.

City Manager Eric Batista will negotiate future tax deals (subject to council approval) to spur new investment and jobs.

Mount Wachusett Community College placed its campus police chief, Melissa Croteau, and lieutenant James Halkola on administrative leave yesterday.

Officer Michael Oduro will serve as interim supervisor (until further notice) as the college reviews the matter.

Spotted lanternflies are rapidly spreading through the state and harming trees as they leave sticky messes on outdoor spaces.

Arborist Michael Rosenbusch advises residents to stomp the insects when seen and contact professional tree services for help (report sightings on mass.gov).

Dylan Dean scored a touchdown on a 5-yard run to give Valley Tech a 13-7 lead over West Boylston in the game.

Junior captain Liam Deso scored four touchdowns to lead St. John's to a 42-0 win over intra-town rival Shrewsbury High on Sept.

25. The game — known as the Battle of the Bury — showcased a deep local sports tradition.