Good morning, Worcester.

United Way of Central Massachusetts received an extra $100K matching donation from the Esler Family Foundation, raising its total contribution to $200K for the United Response Fund that was launched this summer to support local nonprofits during crises—Tim Garvin, president and CEO, said the fund will help build a safety net for organizations facing emergencies.

Marlborough-based Hologic will be acquired by Blackstone and TPG for up to $18.3 billion—changing it from a public firm to a private company.

Spirit Christmas, a spin-off of Spirit Halloween, will open two pop-up stores in North Attleboro at 1360 South Washington St. — and in Dartmouth at 65 Faunce Corner Road — this November.

Both stores will feature a Peppermint Village and offer Santa photo sessions starting Nov. 21.

Altus Dental, a dental and vision insurance provider, nearly doubled its membership over the last three years to serve more than 400,000 people.

The company secured a contract with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Group Insurance Commission—covering over 100,000 state employees, retirees, and families—and entered the vision market with a new partnership while boosting its digital services.

Clark University in Worcester received a historic $20M donation from the Panera Bread founder to finance a restructuring plan announced in June that may see up to 30% of its faculty laid off—this marks the largest gift in the school's 138-year history.

Berlin Meadows on Pleasant Street in Berlin offers local walkers scenic trails through a mix of meadow, wetland and woods with a conservation restriction that protects nature and aids flood control.

The area connects to Sawyer Hill and features bluebird boxes that continue a local conservation legacy.

Massachusetts offers a new guide of 10 haunted attractions for spooky season—listing historic inns, cemeteries, hotels and even a warship where visitors can join ghost tours or book overnight stays.

The list highlights sites from Fall River to Salem and includes a local haunted cemetery near Worcester.

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.

An Evening of Authors at Worcester Public Library

5:45-9 p.m. — Worcester Public Library — Fundraiser event — Celebrate literature with Chris Bohjalian, Wally Lamb, and Kristina Forest over drinks and food.

Niagara Purple Eagles at Holy Cross Crusaders Hockey

6-8 p.m. — Hart Center at the Luth Athletic Complex — Tickets required — Experience intense college hockey action as the Crusaders face off against the Purple Eagles.