
Officers honored for valor
Four Worcester police officers received the state’s highest recognition for bravery for their actions during dangerous incidents. City leaders praised their service as a reminder of risks officers face daily.
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Strategic plan shows school progress
Worcester Public Schools reported steady movement on key district goals, including attendance improvements and stronger instructional supports. Administrators say continued focus will build on this momentum.
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‘No Kings II’ takes over Institute Park
Hundreds showed up for the Worcester edition of the Black-led arts festival, turning the park into a space for performance, celebration and community pride. Organizers hope to make the event an annual tradition.
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Meet the candidates: Sarkodieh
Mayoral candidate Samuel Sarkodieh says he wants a city government that listens better to its residents. His priorities include housing, transparency and small-business support.
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Keeping Worcester Warm turns ten
The cold-weather nonprofit marked a decade of helping families with winter necessities. Volunteers say community need remains high even as the effort continues to expand.
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Green power means lower bills
A new municipal energy program will give most Worcester residents greener electricity at a lower cost. City officials say the plan protects households from price swings.
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WPI awarded AI grants for clean tech
Two state grants will help Worcester Polytechnic Institute advance AI research focused on climate solutions. Faculty say the funding boosts innovation and workforce development.
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Council tackles winter readiness and food access
Councilors reviewed lingering concerns about food insecurity, housing support and snow preparation as temperatures drop. The discussions capped a busy stretch on policy priorities.
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Major fire guts strip mall
A fast-moving blaze destroyed several businesses in a Southwest Cutoff plaza, leaving heavy damage and displacement. Investigators are working to determine the cause.
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Charlton woman sentenced in child rape case
A woman was ordered to prison for the 2015 rape of a foster child in her care. Prosecutors said the sentence reflects the severity of the crime and lasting trauma.
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$20M gift boosts Clark’s future
Panera founder Ron Shaich donated $20 million to fuel new programs and research at Clark University. The grant is one of the largest in the school’s history.
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Council holds short meeting focused on basics
Council’s meeting on Tuesday centered on streets, sidewalks and winter operations.
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Meet the candidates: Mero-Carlson
At-large council candidate Moe Mero-Carlson emphasizes neighborhood revitalization and balanced growth. He says Worcester must protect quality of life as it expands.
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Railers stumble out of the gate
The Worcester Railers dropped their first two games and hope to bounce back quickly. Coaches stress consistency and discipline moving forward.
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5 fun things for the weekend
From haunted hits to family outings, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Worcester this weekend. Here are a few fast picks.
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New GBH partnership expands coverage
The Worcester Guardian has teamed up with GBH News to deepen civic coverage and elevate local reporting. The collaboration aims to serve readers with more stories that matter.
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Why some Worcester residents don’t vote
Organizers are working to improve turnout by knocking doors and helping voters navigate barriers. They argue every election shapes the city’s future.
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Garden Club honors conservation leader
Grace Elton was recognized for her leadership protecting Worcester’s green spaces. Members say her work strengthens access to nature citywide.
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Meet the candidates: Pepple
Council candidate Binienda Pepple says she will focus on trust, communication and lifting resident voices. She calls herself a bridge-builder.
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New entrepreneurship center at QCC
Rocky Knight will lead a new hub supporting business startups at Quinsigamond Community College. The effort aims to spur local economic growth.
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School accountability progress
New state data shows Worcester meeting nearly half its performance targets with gains in academics and attendance. Leaders say continued investment is needed.
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WARL rebuilds with new leadership
The Worcester Animal Rescue League is undergoing a transformation focused on expansion and sustainability. Its director says the mission remains centered on compassion.
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Halloween thrills at Polar Park
Boo in the Woo brought spooky fun, costumes and treats to the home of the WooSox. The community event keeps growing each year.
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Murray resigns amid oversight report flap
Tim Murray stepped down from the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce following questions about the timing of a police oversight report. His departure sparked fresh debate on transparency.
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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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