Good morning, Worcester.

Massachusetts chef Stephen Coe of Early Bird restaurant and Lobsta Love Food Truck will face Bobby Flay on Food Network tonight at 9 p.m. (Eastern).

Coe, who beat Flay in 2020, is set for a rematch with guest appearances by chef Michael Symon and comedian Manon Mathews.

Gas prices in Massachusetts average $3.03 per gallon, down 2 cents from last week and 9 cents lower than a month ago.

Lower oil prices and near-record U.S. production are expected to push prices down further — though the state still ranks 19th for gas prices.

Three candidates are running for Worcester School Committee at-large: incumbents Maureen Binienda and Sue Coghlin Mailman, who support academic excellence and growth, and newcomer Adwoa Sakyi-Lamptey, who wants to build partnerships to fix post-pandemic learning and funding issues. Their platforms focus on improving student performance — voters will soon decide the future direction of education.

Four Worcester State University researchers wrote a chapter for the book Critical Perspectives on Latino Education in Massachusetts that explains how Latino students in Worcester public schools face problems like low test scores and segregation.

Their work shows that calls for more Latino teachers and bilingual programs remain unanswered—pushing local education leaders to seek change.

In Worcester, longer lines at the El Buen Samaritano food pantry have raised worries among local families as the ongoing government shutdown fuels uncertainty.

Executive director Mari Gonzalez said the center — which serves about 500 families weekly — remains open to help clients facing potential cuts to food stamps and WIC benefits.

MassDevelopment and federal partners have secured $38 million to renovate and preserve 73 affordable housing units in 16 Worcester buildings.

The financing will support upcoming improvements—ensuring continued affordable living options for local residents.

On Sunday, Worcester will host the Walk to End Alzheimer’s where nearly 3,000 walkers will raise funds for the Alzheimer's Association to support care, research, and services—more than 70% of the $583,000 goal has been reached as of Thursday.

Stephanie Carreiro, MD, PhD’22 received a five-year NIH award to study better treatments for opioid use disorder and to mentor new clinical researchers at UMass Chan Medical School.

Her lab uses wearable sensors and smartphone tools—mixing health data with daily signals—to build computer models that predict patient responses.

Two local hospitals experienced network outages that began Monday and disrupted phones, imaging, and laboratory systems.

Techs are working to restore services while Heywood Hospital’s emergency department has returned to normal (Athol Hospital's status remains pending).

Tommy Cassell predicted the winners of every Central Mass and Worcester-area high school football game for Week 7, building on his 81.5% hit rate from last week.

His column covers games set for Friday and Saturday at times from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. (for example, Worcester Academy and Auburn are among his picks) and includes detailed matchups (showing a competitive local scene).

Beatboxer NaPoM will perform during halftime at the Railers' home opener on Oct.

18 at 6:05 p.m. at the DCU Center—fans can expect his unique beatboxing act between hockey periods.

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.

Colorful Cocktails: A Pen and Watercolor Workshop

5-7 p.m. — The White Eagle — $55 for one, $100 for two — Unleash your creativity while painting seasonal cocktails in this beginner-friendly watercolor workshop.