Worcester schools relaunch safety committee
Worcester Public Schools has revived its Safety Advisory for Education Committee, expanding its mission to address both physical security and student well-being. The group, divided into “physical” and “felt” safety subcommittees, will guide districtwide policy recommendations throughout the year. Read more →
Hidden creative opportunities shine at JMAC
The Jean McDonough Arts Center continues to quietly power Worcester’s creative economy, offering affordable rehearsal, gallery and performance space for local artists. A new wave of independent creators is finding its footing there — and redefining what community arts can look like in the city. Read more →
Man indicted in 2009 disappearance of Worcester woman
A 16-year-old missing-person case has resurfaced with the indictment of a suspect in the disappearance of a Worcester woman last seen in 2009. The new development marks a major step in a case that has haunted investigators and family members for more than a decade. Read more →
DCU Center leaders retire after decades of service
After decades shaping Worcester’s entertainment scene, DCU Center veterans Sandy Dunn and Jim Moughan are stepping down. Dunn, general manager since the venue’s early days, and Moughan, director of operations, were celebrated for their combined 80-plus years of service to the city’s downtown revitalization. Read more →
Worcester couple convicted of sex trafficking a relative
A Worcester couple has been convicted on charges of trafficking and sexually exploiting a relative in a case that prosecutors described as deeply disturbing. The verdict comes after extensive investigation and testimony detailing years of abuse and coercion. Read more →
District council candidates debate key issues at Mechanics Hall
From homelessness to housing to police reform, district candidates squared off this week in debates hosted by the Worcester Regional Research Bureau and Telegram & Gazette. Voters packed Mechanics Hall to hear differing visions for Worcester’s neighborhoods ahead of November’s election. Read more →
Police union announces Worcester endorsements
The New England Police Benevolent Association has endorsed Mayor Joe Petty and several City Council candidates following what it called a thorough evaluation of public safety priorities. The announcement comes amid ongoing discussions about police-community relations and public trust. Read more →
King backs research bureau call for civilian oversight
Council Vice Chair Khrystian King renewed his push for a civilian police oversight board, citing a new Worcester Regional Research Bureau report calling for reform. King said it’s time to move beyond studies and take action on community oversight and accountability. Read more →
Fitchburg man convicted in 2013 killing of Shaun Hibbard
More than ten years after the fatal shooting of 33-year-old Shaun Hibbard, a Worcester County jury has found John Yang guilty of second-degree murder. Officials say the verdict brings long-awaited closure for Hibbard’s family and underscores law enforcement’s persistence in solving cold cases. Read more →
GBH hosts Worcester mayoral debate
The three mayoral candidates — Joe Petty, Khrystian King, and Owura-Kwaku Sarkodieh — met in their first live debate, broadcast by GBH News. Moderated by Sam Turken, the hour-long event focused on housing, public safety and Worcester’s future direction. Read more →
WHA partners launch Lakeside redevelopment
A new partnership aims to redevelop Lakeside Apartments, bringing hundreds of modern affordable housing units to Worcester’s west side. The project is part of a larger push to expand safe, accessible housing amid growing demand across the city. Read more →
Habitat & UniBank help families become homeowners
Two Worcester families are turning the key to new homes thanks to a partnership between Habitat for Humanity and UniBank. The collaboration provides affordable mortgages and long-term stability for local families working toward homeownership. Read more →
Worcester marks 175 years since women’s rights gathering
Mechanics Hall will once again make history this month as Worcester commemorates the 175th anniversary of the first National Women’s Rights Convention. The two-day event blends historical performance, exhibits and advocacy for continued progress. Read more →
Leaf it to the city: Worcester’s fall pickup starts soon
The city’s annual leaf collection begins Nov. 3, giving residents several weeks to clear their yards before winter. The DPW advises checking route schedules and following parking bans to avoid tickets during cleanup. Read more →
Haunts, history & Celtic magic: 5 fun things this weekend
From eerie lantern-lit cemetery tours to Irish illusionists and haunted walks, Worcester’s weekend lineup had no shortage of chills, laughs and local flavor. Read more →
Crompton Street Haunted Walk returns for one more night
The neighborhood haunt that’s become a Worcester Halloween staple extended its run for one last night of jump scares and laughter. Organizers say this year’s “Chapter 4” was the biggest and most immersive yet. Read more →
Saint Paul 5K ‘Knightmare Run’ raises funds for Kelly family
Runners in full Halloween spirit hit the pavement for a good cause at the Saint Paul 5K “Knightmare Run,” benefiting the Kelly family. The event drew strong community support — and plenty of creative costumes. Read more →
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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