Good morning, Worcester.

Worcester Red Sox President Dr. Charles Steinberg said that building a hotel across Madison Street from Polar Park is key to making sure the ballpark pays for itself—bringing in money from hotel taxes and easing public concerns.

He added that a meeting with hotel developer Denis Dowdle confirmed the need to move ahead so the project can meet its financial promise.

Five Central Mass life sciences companies have received $5 million in tax incentives to create 245 jobs, and they will use the funds to boost the region’s biotech sector—job creation is expected to follow soon.

The city auditor reported that the Polar Park DIF fund is expected to fall short by $390,000 and owe more than $2 million to the general fund by the end of the fiscal year.

An economics professor said that using taxpayer money for the ballpark may not be the best idea — while a local director noted that the park boosts business and foot traffic.

Sen. Paul Feeney has introduced a proposed bill that would limit self-checkout lanes in grocery stores to eight, stirring mixed reactions among local shoppers.

Some say the plan could help protect jobs and improve checkout service—while others worry it may slow down the process—leaving the community divided on its future impact.

98.5 The Sports Hub's Tim McKone said the Patriots, now 5-2 with four wins in a row, look like a real playoff contender.

The team will host the Browns at 1 p.m. on Sunday.

The Holy Cross football team gathered for dinner at Dino's restaurant Monday night to enjoy Italian food and build bonds off the field—organizers John and Donna Glowik hosted the event, and teammates shared stories to strengthen their relationships beyond football.

Football expert Tommy Cassell offered his predictions for every high school football game in Central Mass and Worcester for Week 8.

He said his pick accuracy dropped from 81.5% to 65.3% last week and noted tough matchups like Auburn — Tantasqua for games starting at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Dante Ricciardi, a former Worcester Academy star, has joined the Dodgers as an area scout after six years with the Red Sox.

He will cover Central/North Florida first and later New England while aiming to help build the team — a move that brings him closer to his family.

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.

Maine Mariners at Worcester Railers

3:05 – 4:35 PM — DCU Center — Tickets required — Catch the Worcester Railers take on the Maine Mariners in an exciting ECHL matchup.

Trois-Rivières Lions vs Worcester Railers

7:05-8:35 p.m. — DCU Center — Tickets available — Watch the Worcester Railers take on the Trois-Rivières Lions in an exciting hockey matchup.