Good morning, Worcester.

T&G Santa's toy drive helped nearly 10,000 children receive gifts from 20 local partner organizations yesterday.

Donations from readers + local businesses and civic groups boosted the running total to $41,546.30, with the United Way of Central Massachusetts as a key partner.

In 1875, manufacturer Lucius Pond vanished and local police appointed their first detective (Ezra Churchill) to probe alleged forgery that unsettled the local business scene.

His trial later sparked community efforts for a pardon, marking a key chapter in Worcester’s industrial history.

Brian Nelson’s cartoon Laurel explored Green Hill Park’s past and present — a creative journey through the park’s evolving history.

It was published on Dec. 13 and offers a unique take on local heritage.

UMass Chan Medical School is ranked among the top primary care programs by U.

S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools 2025. The school is expanding its class size and opening a new regional campus and research building to train future physicians.

UMass Chan Medical School launched a six-episode podcast series that features Catherine, a two-year-old with Tay-Sachs who is the final participant in a gene therapy clinical trial, and the episode is available on all major streaming platforms.

UMass Chan Medical School hosted a naming event on Wednesday, July 9 for the Paul J.

DiMare Center, a nine-story, 350,000 sqft research building funded by a $35 million gift from the DiMare Foundation. The center will boost studies in neurodegenerative and genetic diseases with more than 70 investigators involved.

Candlelight: Tribute to Coldplay

8:30-9:30 p.m. — Mechanics Hall — $25.65 — Experience the music of Coldplay in a candlelit setting for a unique musical celebration.

A Christmas Carol

7:00 – 8:30 PM — The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts — Tickets from $102 — Enjoy a classic holiday tale brought to life in a stunning theatrical performance.

Fourth Annual Royal Holiday Ball

6-11 p.m. — Courtyard by Marriott Worcester — Cost not specified — Experience a magical evening of celebration, dancing, and festive treats fit for royalty.

Sans Souci Tribute to JGB

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Electric Haze Llc — Tickets starting at $15.44 — Experience a tribute to JGB with live alternative rock music.

A Christmas Carol

7:00 – 8:30 PM — The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience a classic holiday tale brought to life in a beautiful theater setting.

Dueling Pianos Show

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Rascals — Ticket prices vary — Get ready to rock and roll at an electrifying musical experience where you choose the playlist.

Home for the Holidays Hockey Game

3:05-4:35 p.m. — DCU Center — $10 Kids Tickets — Celebrate the season with festive hockey, family fun, and a chance to win during the Ugly Sweater Contest.

New Year's Eve Celebration with Whiskey Boulevard

7 PM - 1 AM — Samuel Slater's Restaurant — $95 Dinner, $30 Celebration Only — Celebrate New Year's Eve with live music, dinner buffet, and a champagne toast at midnight.