Good morning, Worcester.

Pop punk band Acceptance — celebrating the 20th anniversary of their hit album Phantoms — will perform at the Palladium in Worcester on October 17th.

Tickets are available from select third-party sellers with prices starting as low as $46.

Jessica Spinelli and Emma Watson at UMass Chan have been named HHMI Freeman Hrabowski Scholars, making them the first faculty to earn the award.

They will start the prestigious program this fall—receiving up to $8.6 million over 10 years to support their research.

A new housing law bars home sellers from conditioning accepted offers on the buyer's decision to forgo a home inspection (contracts entered on or after Wednesday).

Sellers must provide a separate written disclosure form (informing buyers that inspection is optional) so buyers can make informed decisions.

Boston's Logan Airport is not playing Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s government shutdown video at TSA checkpoints because TSA did not request it and the facility lacks video screens—Massport confirmed that the video is not airing at any of its facilities, including Worcester Regional Airport. The decision comes as officials express concerns that the political content may violate local laws.

State and local leaders joined the Worcester Housing Authority and project partners on Wednesday to break ground on the Lakeside Apartments redevelopment—this project will add 350 units and 10 affordable home ownership units while replacing a 75-year-old building.

Demolition will begin this month as the project moves forward to provide modernized, accessible housing for residents.

Rep. Natalie Higgins has proposed a bill that would use 25% of future casino gaming revenue to fund expanded commuter rail along the Route 2 corridor, including Fitchburg, Leominster, Ashburnham, Lunenburg, and Westminster — a plan that aims to improve transportation and spur local economic growth. The bill is currently under review by the Joint Committee on Transportation.

Joe-Ann Fergus has been named the new executive director of the Massachusetts Nurses Association—she replaces interim leader Roland Goff and brings more than 20 years of union experience.

Her appointment comes as the union works to boost nurse working conditions and improve patient care.

Pernet Family Health celebrated 70 years of Strengthening Families as it reviewed its history of serving nearly 12,000 individuals in Worcester.

It will host anniversary events including a new Choice Pantry and a Thanksgiving program that will deliver 10,000 pounds of food to over 350 families — efforts aimed at easing rising winter challenges.

Dr. Fernando Martinez leads a nationwide Department of Defense study to test metformin for treating a lung disease (idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis) that weakens lungs and affects over 80,000 Americans with a short life span.

The study will screen 800 patients at 55 care centers, including VA Medical Centers, and is supported by a $625,000 grant (with plans to apply later for a $17.3 million trial).

Real estate developer Michael Ermani—founder of Premier Property Management and Investments—purchased multifamily properties at 169 and 171 Mill St in Worcester for $5 million on Sep.

22 and added a property in Grafton to his portfolio. These acquisitions expand his holdings and strengthen his market presence in the area.

The Holy Cross football team used their bye week to recover physically and mentally, and they are set to face Richmond on Saturday, October 18 at 2 p.m.—players received treatment and reviewed film to fix issues.

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.

Hallelujah Night Celebration

7-10 p.m. — The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts — Tickets required ($1) — Experience an inspiring evening of worship and community with uplifting performances.

Born of Osiris with The Browning

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Palladium — Tickets available — Experience high-energy performances from progressive metal innovators as part of the Through Shadows USA Tour.

Kyung-Wha Chung: Violin Recital

4:00 – 5:30 PM — Mechanics Hall — $15-$84 — Experience acclaimed violinist Kyung-Wha Chung showcasing masterful sonatas alongside pianist Kevin Kenner.