Good morning, Worcester.

Local rock band Gold Star Blvd. released two new singles — 'Ain’t The Same' and 'Saving Face', with the summer video for the latter shot at sunset.

Singer-songwriter Jay Sully also dropped three fresh rock tracks including 'Stay Weird' and 'Damned If You Don’t' that are now streaming.

Actor Mark Wahlberg filmed scenes at Brody's Diner and Flynn's Truck Stop on Route 20 in Shrewsbury on Oct.

8 for his film Weekend Warriors—road closures were approved so crews could capture a scene with a traffic jam.

Renowned poet Martín Espada gave a moving reading on Oct.

3 at Worcester State University and received an honorary doctorate for his work in literature and social justice—capturing immigrant and working-class voices in his performance.

Worcester State University will host the symposium 'Meeting the Moment: Safeguarding Education Pathways for Latino Students in Massachusetts' on October 17 (9 a.m. to 2 p.m.) to bring together education leaders, policymakers, and Latino youth to discuss expanding educational opportunities. The event will feature opening remarks by President Barry Maloney and include breakout sessions that focus on policy, youth voices, and support for Latino education.

Alex Guardiola, a Worcester school committee member, pushed for a plan to boost student achievement after MCAS scores for (2024-25) showed modest gains in grades three to eight and a drop in grade 10.

Superintendent Brian Allen said the numbers reflected stability but stressed more work is needed to help all students be ready for future careers.

First-year students at Worcester State are turning an overgrown garden near campus into a pollinator garden, led by Professors Maura Collins and Anne Armstrong.

They cleared weeds, tilled the soil, and planted native flowers from the Worcester Native Plant Initiative—helping bees and butterflies while strengthening their community bond.

A report by MassINC Policy Center and the Worcester Regional Research Bureau found that suburban schools are getting most state funds for large school projects while urban schools in Boston and gateway cities work in old, crowded buildings.

The study asks state policy makers to change funding rules so that schools needing repairs get help first.

Worcester’s Chief Sustainability Officer John Odell discussed the city's Zero Waste Master Plan on Talk of the Commonwealth, saying the plan will reduce trash and lower city costs while cutting greenhouse gas emissions and improving recycling education to stop wish-cycling — he defended the Pay As You Throw program and noted that changes are planned.

The undefeated Wachusett football team is 4-0 after a win over Leominster—Head Coach Mike Dubzinski said the players work hard in practice and focus on playing mistakes-free to have a fun and meaningful season.

The program, which has 175 student athletes from grade 7 through 12, remains focused on improving each game.

Former South High star Angelo LaRose is playing at Wesleyan and working to build a career as an NFL scout after getting healthy from past injuries.

He interned with the Baltimore Ravens this summer and is building key relationships with NFL teams — his passion for football guides his future steps.

Pink Martini Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices range from $87 to $303 — Experience an evening of eclectic music from the beloved Pink Martini.

Johnny Mathis Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience the timeless voice of Johnny Mathis, an icon of pop music since the 1950s.

Rock The GazBar

10:30 a.m.–11:59 p.m. — The GazBar Sports Grill — Registration fees apply — Run, walk, or cheer on participants during a fun 5k event for all ages.

Toronzo Cannon Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Bull Run Restaurant — Check for ticket prices — Experience the electrifying blues sounds of Toronzo Cannon from Chicago.

Live Blues Performance by Troy Mercy

8:30 p.m. - 12:30 a.m. — Vincent's — Entry fee unknown — Enjoy a night of blues with the uniquely captivating Troy Mercy and their rock & roll flair.

Live Music by Jim Infantino & Lisa Bastoni

1-5 p.m. — Hyland Orchard Pavilion — Check website for ticket info — Enjoy alternating sets from talented songwriters while picking apples.

Adirondack Thunder vs Worcester Railers

3:05 – 4:35 PM — DCU Center — Ticket prices vary — Catch an exciting match as the Worcester Railers take on the Adirondack Thunder in their eighth season of ECHL action.

Get the Led Out Tribute Concert

8-11 p.m. — Stadium Theatre — $34, $39, $44 — Experience the epic sounds of Led Zeppelin performed live with authentic energy and artistry.

Long Subaru 15th Annual Love-A-Pet Event

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Long Subaru — Free entry — Celebrate furry friends with adoptable pets and a cutest pet contest.

Live Music Featuring Josh Kerwin

11 AM – 3 PM — Tangerini's Spring Street Farm — Free entry — Experience self-taught artistry with Josh Kerwin's unique piano and vocal performance.