MAWOCC marks a decade of advocacy
The Massachusetts Women of Color Coalition marked its 10th anniversary with an annual meeting that reflected on a decade of leadership development, advocacy and community organizing. Speakers highlighted MAWOCC’s growth and its role in supporting women of color across Central Massachusetts. The event also looked ahead to the organization’s next phase amid ongoing equity and inclusion challenges.
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QCC students recognized for academic research
Quinsigamond Community College honored students for original research projects spanning multiple disciplines. The showcase highlighted hands-on learning and faculty mentorship, emphasizing the role of community colleges in undergraduate research. College officials said the event showed QCC’s commitment to academic excellence and student opportunity.
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City council weighs transit, snow response and operations
Worcester City Councilors examined public transportation issues, recent snowstorm response, and broader questions about how city systems are functioning. Councilors raised concerns about service reliability and interdepartmental coordination. The discussion reflected ongoing scrutiny of city operations during a winter marked by weather challenges.
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HUD official tours Worcester Housing Authority sites
A regional HUD administrator toured Worcester Housing Authority properties, highlighting ongoing redevelopment and resident programming. The visit focused on federal investment, construction progress, and long-term housing goals. Local officials framed the tour as a chance to showcase Worcester’s use of federal housing resources.
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Red Sox spring training truck stops at Polar Park
The Boston Red Sox spring training truck made a promotional stop at Polar Park, drawing fans eager for the return of baseball. The event blended team branding with community engagement ahead of the upcoming season. Organizers said the stop was part of a broader effort to connect the team with fans across New England.
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Building equity through a new local nonprofit
Former Worcester city council candidate Jessica Pepple has launched The Reframe Institute, a new organization focused on addressing systemic inequities and expanding opportunities in Worcester through research, community engagement and collaboration with local partners. The initiative aims to tackle structural barriers and uplift underserved communities by reframing how equity work is done locally, with an emphasis on actionable solutions and inclusive policy advocacy. Pepple’s effort reflects growing momentum in Worcester around grassroots approaches to racial and economic justice. Read more
Worcester approaches deadline for ARPA funds
City officials outlined where Worcester stands as the deadline approaches for spending federal American Rescue Plan Act funds. The update included remaining allocations and ongoing projects tied to pandemic recovery. Councilors talked accountability and timely use of the remaining dollars.
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Holy Cross and city expand artist residency program
The College of the Holy Cross and the city announced an expansion of their artist-in-residence collaboration. The program places artists in community settings while connecting them with academic resources. Supporters said the initiative strengthens Worcester’s cultural landscape and community engagement.
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QCC program receives $148K state grant
A Quinsigamond Community College program received a $148,000 grant aimed at workforce development and student support. College leaders said the funding will expand programming aligned with regional employment needs. The award reflects continued state investment in community college pathways.
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Alumni gifts boost WPI scholarships
Two alumni couples donated a combined $13 million to Worcester Polytechnic Institute to expand scholarship opportunities. University officials said the gifts will increase access for students with financial need. The donations rank among the largest in WPI’s history.
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Worcester teens take the stage at poetry slam
Local teens prepared to share original work at a Worcester poetry slam centered on youth voices. Organizers described the event as both a performance and a platform for self-expression. The program reflects ongoing investment in youth arts programming.
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Charter review proposal sent to committee
The city council voted to send a proposal to review Worcester’s city charter to committee for further discussion. Councilors differed on the scope and urgency of potential changes. The move keeps long-standing governance questions in active review.
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Millbury officer wounded during standoff
A Millbury police officer was shot during a standoff in Spencer, prompting a multi-agency response. Authorities said the officer was transported for medical treatment following the incident. The shooting underscored the risks faced by law enforcement during high-intensity calls.
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School committee rejects student data petitions
The Worcester School Committee voted against petitions related to parental consent and student data practices. Petitioners raised concerns about privacy and transparency. Committee members cited existing policies and legal requirements in their decision.
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Burncoat Spirit team claims national title
Burncoat High School’s spirit team captured a national championship, marking a major achievement for the program. Coaches and students credited teamwork and preparation for the win. The title brought recognition to both the school and the broader Worcester Public Schools community.
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Neon ice skating and Sondheim highlight weekend picks
A roundup of weekend events featured neon ice skating, live music, and a Sondheim tribute. The guide highlighted activities across Worcester for residents looking to get out despite winter weather. Organizers emphasized accessibility and variety in the city’s cultural offerings.
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City amends policy barring ICE use of property
Worcester amended a policy restricting Immigration and Customs Enforcement from using city property. City leaders emphasized the clarification was intended to align with existing law and municipal authority. The change followed weeks of public discussion and scrutiny.
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Early FY27 school budget outlook reviewed
School officials presented an early look at Worcester Public Schools’ fiscal year 2027 budget outlook. Rising costs and long-term funding pressures were central to the discussion. Committee members stressed the importance of planning well ahead of formal budget submissions.
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Worcester State drops key MASCAC matchup
Worcester State men’s basketball fell to Westfield State in a high-stakes MASCAC conference showdown. The loss shifted the conference standings with the postseason approaching. Coaches said the focus now turns to closing out the regular season strong.
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Have news, tips, or a story worth telling? Reach Editor Charlene Arsenault at carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org—because good stories (and great scoops) deserve to be shared.
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