WORCESTER—It was a full week across the city: candidates made their case for City Hall, health officials tracked West Nile virus and the community gathered for everything from back-to-school celebrations to solemn remembrances. Here are the highlights:
School committee pushes to expand JROTC programs
Worcester’s school committee voted to move forward on expanding Junior ROTC programs in city schools, sparking debate over military influence in education. Supporters say the program provides structure and leadership skills, while critics question whether it belongs in classrooms. Read more
Worcester man indicted for alleged firearms trafficking
Federal prosecutors indicted a Worcester man accused of illegally trafficking firearms. Investigators say the weapons were sold without serial numbers, raising concerns about ghost guns and the pipeline of illegal firearms into local communities. Read more
ArtsWorcester honors Tracy Kraus with 43rd annual award
ArtsWorcester presented its annual award to Tracy Kraus, recognizing her decades-long impact on the city’s creative community. The celebration underscored Worcester’s growing role as a regional hub for the arts. Read more
West Nile virus detected in Worcester; mosquito spraying scheduled
City health officials confirmed the detection of West Nile virus in Worcester mosquitoes this week. To limit spread, targeted spraying has been scheduled in affected areas. Residents are urged to take precautions to avoid bites. Read more
Meet the candidates: Mayor Joe Petty goes for 8th term
Mayor Joseph Petty is seeking re-election, aiming for his eighth term leading Worcester. As chair of the City Council, Petty points to experience and stability, while challengers argue it’s time for new leadership. Read more
Safe Exit helps hundreds escape Worcester’s sex trade
A local nonprofit is helping women and girls leave prostitution, offering housing, counseling and support for survivors. With more than 650 women assisted, the program sheds light on the realities of Worcester’s sex trade. Read more
Seven Hills affiliate launches national arts accessibility hub
Seven Hills Foundation announced a new national center for arts accessibility, expanding opportunities for people with disabilities to engage in creative work. The hub is expected to set a model for inclusive programming nationwide. Read more
Worcester celebrates start of new school year
Students and families gathered at back-to-school events across the city, marking the return to classrooms. From resource fairs to community festivals, Worcester welcomed the new school year with optimism and support. Read more
Baseball legends Gammons & Shaughnessy share stories at Polar Park
Veteran sportswriters Peter Gammons and Dan Shaughnessy took the stage at Polar Park, trading stories about the game and its legends. The event blended baseball nostalgia with reflections on the sport’s future. Read more
Ceremony marks Overdose Awareness Day in Worcester
Worcester joined communities around the globe in observing Overdose Awareness Day, honoring lives lost to addiction and rallying efforts to fight the ongoing crisis. Advocates called for expanded resources and compassion. Read more
Millbury man sentenced to prison for raping 15-year-old
A Millbury man was sentenced to prison this week for sexually assaulting a teenage girl. Prosecutors emphasized the seriousness of the crime, while advocates highlighted the ongoing need for protections for minors. Read more
Meet the Candidates: Satya Mitra says he’s “grounded in facts”
City Council candidate Satya Mitra is running on a platform of transparency, fiscal responsibility and community engagement. In his interview, he emphasized his background in business and commitment to evidence-based policymaking. Read more
Railers drop puck on season 8 with block party, beatboxer Bluey
The Worcester Railers launched their eighth season with a block party outside the DCU Center, featuring live entertainment and fanfare. The celebration included a performance by world-renowned beatboxer Bluey. Read more
Worcester honors 2025 Women of Consequence
The city recognized its 2025 Women of Consequence, celebrating leaders who have made lasting contributions to Worcester. The ceremony highlighted achievements in advocacy, education, and community service. Read more
5 things to do this weekend: proms, pride, and Polar Park
Looking for plans? From Pride celebrations to country hits and Foo Fighters tributes, Worcester’s weekend calendar was packed with options for every taste. Read more
Man killed near Jordan Pond in Shrewsbury; suspect in custody
Police say a man was fatally shot near Jordan Pond in Shrewsbury, with a suspect quickly taken into custody. The case remains under investigation as officials piece together what happened. Read more
$1M investment creates 12 affordable housing units in Worcester
A newly announced $1 million investment will bring 12 affordable housing units to the city, part of ongoing efforts to address Worcester’s housing crisis. Officials said the project reflects growing demand for more options. Read more
Meet the Candidates: Jermoh Kamara on health, schools, and community
School Committee member Jermoh Kamara, now running for City Council, emphasized her background in public health and education in a wide-ranging interview. She argued Worcester needs leadership rooted in equity and lived experience. Read more
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