Good morning, Worcester.

Worcester Magazine is inviting local poets and artists to submit Halloween-themed poetry and art for its Oct.

31 issue, with a submission deadline at noon Friday, Oct. 17 — entries must include a two-sentence bio and adhere to specific guidelines. Selected entries will be notified by Oct. 24 and featured on the magazine’s community page.

WPI and MCPHS are expanding their long-standing academic partnership with new degree pathways that let qualified undergraduates move between pharmacy and biomedical engineering programs—offering clear transitions and meeting GPA and course requirements.

These programs will enable students to advance their studies in Worcester’s vibrant education community.

Clark alumna Margaret Wickens Pearce was named a MacArthur Fellow and given an $800,000 award over five years for her maps showing Indigenous peoples’ lands—her work brings new ideas to life.

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Department of Revenue’s Division of Local Services will hold public listening sessions on Chapter 70 funding, with Worcester hosting its session on October 30th from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Doherty Memorial High School—written comments can be submitted via email.

Eminent political journalist Jonathan Martin will speak at Worcester State University in Sullivan Auditorium on Oct 22 at 11:30 a.m.—1 p.m. for an in-depth discussion on politics and journalism alongside professors Nathan Angelo and Anthony Dell’Aera, and the event is free and open to the public.

Blake Binda, a Worcester State student and Marine Corps officer candidate, married on May 16th, graduated summa cum laude on May 17th, and was commissioned as a second lieutenant on May 22nd.

He earned key scholarships and awards—marking a decade-long journey from enlisting at 17 to achieving academic and military honors.

Joseph Sawyer, a longtime Shrewsbury superintendent, announced on October 8 that he will retire at the end of June to pursue a new career after nearly 30 years in education.

The School Committee will begin a search for his successor while praising his leadership during challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

On Wednesday night the Worcester County Sheriff's Department kicked off its annual winter coat drive at Pepe's Italian Restaurant, aiming to distribute 4,000 new coats to local residents in need—Sheriff Lew Evangelidis said the drive gives warmth and dignity through the winter.

The Food Bank of Western Mass is worried that if the government shutdown lasts more than two months, its USDA food supplies will run out—Executive Director Andrew Morehouse said this may make it harder to feed local residents.

The organization is reaching out to donors to help support those in need if the shutdown continues.

Northbridge football team is 3-1 and thrives under Coach LaChapelle's innovative offense as team captains praise his creative play calls.

The Rams will play today at 7 p.m. at Tantasqua and have averaged over 40 points in their wins—highlighting their scoring ability.

Tommy Cassell predicted winners for all the high school football games in Week 6 in Central Mass. and Worcester area—covering key match-ups from Thursday through Saturday as he offered his picks from teams like Millbury to Gardner.

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.

Worcester Bitcoin Meetup

6-9 p.m. — The Boynton Restaurant & Spirits — Free entry — Connect with local bitcoin enthusiasts to share insights and deepen your understanding of Bitcoin.