Massachusetts Symphony Orchestra Celebrates 75 Years with Patriotic Pops Concert and Fireworks

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Baystate Bank Sponsors Worcester’s America 250 Fireworks Celebration at East Park

by Hank Stolz | Jun 29, 2026 | DISCOVER CENTRAL MA, This Weeks Top Stories, WORCESTER NEWS

Baystate Bank Helps Light Up Worcester’s America 250 Celebration

“Worcester, Massachusetts was the place of the original revolution in my opinion. And some historians would also agree with that.”

By-Hank Stolz

Photo -submitted

WORCESTER, MA- As Worcester prepares to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, Baystate Bank is helping make this year’s fireworks celebration one of the largest community events of the summer.

On the latest episode of the Discover Central MA podcast, Hank Stolz and Tim Murray welcomed Baystate Bank President and CEO Seth Pitts to discuss the bank’s sponsorship of Worcester’s America 250 celebration, taking place Wednesday, July 2, at East Park on Shrewsbury Street.

The free community celebration begins during the afternoon and culminates with an enhanced fireworks display at 9:30 p.m.

A Full Evening of Family Entertainment

Visitors can enjoy activities throughout the day before the fireworks begin.

From 5:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m., Dan Gabel and His Orchestra will perform live big band music, providing a festive soundtrack for the celebration.

Families can also enjoy:

East Park’s splash pad and playground
Face painting
Food vendors
Nearby restaurants along Shrewsbury Street
Community activities throughout the park

The event is designed to be an evening where residents and visitors alike can celebrate together while reflecting on Worcester’s unique role in American history.

Worcester’s Revolutionary Legacy

Pitts believes Worcester’s contribution to American independence deserves greater recognition.

“Worcester, Massachusetts was the place of the original revolution in my opinion. And some historians would also agree with that.”

Long before the battles at Lexington and Concord, Worcester became the site of organized resistance against British authority.

In September 1774, thousands of residents representing 37 Massachusetts towns gathered peacefully to prevent British-appointed officials from carrying out their duties, an act many historians recognize as one of the earliest organized demonstrations leading to the American Revolution.

The America 250 celebration honors that legacy while celebrating Worcester’s continued growth as a center of innovation, business, and community.

Investing in Community

For Pitts, sponsoring the event aligned perfectly with Baystate Bank’s community mission.

When asked about supporting the celebration, he said the decision was an easy one.

“Investments in community return compounding dividends like you’ve never seen.”

Baystate Bank has long emphasized local partnerships, community development, and supporting organizations that strengthen Central Massachusetts.

A Bonus for Future Homebuyers

Pitts also announced a special promotion for attendees interested in purchasing a home.

“If I could just throw a shameless plug, for those of you out there that do come, we’re going to do a little promotion where we give you a thousand bucks off your closing costs of a home that you buy. So, feel free to come by and collect that.”

Visitors can stop by the Baystate Bank booth during the celebration to learn more about the offer.

Community Partners Make It Possible

The America 250 celebration is sponsored by Baystate Bank with additional support from the City of Worcester and numerous community partners working together to commemorate this historic milestone.

For event schedules, parking information, and additional details, visit Discover Central Massachusetts.

Worcester’s America 250 Celebration

Wednesday, July 2
East Park
Shrewsbury Street
Worcester, MA

Schedule

Afternoon family activities
5:00–7:30 p.m. — Live music by Dan Gabel and His Orchestra
9:30 p.m. — Enhanced fireworks display

Activities

Splash park
Playground
Face painting
Food vendors
Local restaurants
Baystate Bank community booth

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International Travel Health Tips: Saint Vincent’s Dr. George Abraham Shares How to Stay Healthy Abroad

by Hank Stolz | Jun 29, 2026 | This Weeks Top Stories

International Travel Is Safe—If You Prepare: Dr. George Abraham Shares Practical Travel Health Advice

Food and Water Safety Still Matter

“My general dictum, when I run an international travel clinic in my office, is avoid anything that’s raw or fresh. Eat everything that’s cooked.”

By-Hank Stolz

Photo of Worcester-Kill the Ball Media, Photo of Dr. Abraham-submitted

WORCESTER, MA-As summer vacation season gets underway, many travelers are preparing for trips around the world. While international travel remains remarkably safe for most people, a little preparation can significantly reduce the risk of illness.

Dr. George Abraham, Chief of Medicine at Saint Vincent Hospital and a physician board certified in internal medicine and infectious disease, recently joined Radio Worcester to discuss how travelers can protect themselves while still enjoying the benefits of seeing the world.

His message was reassuring: travel shouldn’t be feared—but it should be respected.

Food and Water Safety Still Matter

One of Dr. Abraham’s strongest recommendations centered on food safety, particularly when traveling in developing countries.

“My general dictum, when I run an international travel clinic in my office, is avoid anything that’s raw or fresh. Eat everything that’s cooked.”

Fresh fruits deserve extra attention as well.

“If you eat a fruit, generally eat a fruit that you can peel yourself. If not, cut it yourself because you don’t know whether the knife has been washed or not.”

He also recommends avoiding ice in beverages.

“You can have a chilled drink, but no ice in your drink because you don’t know from which water the ice has been made.”

These simple habits can greatly reduce exposure to bacteria, parasites, and viruses that cause gastrointestinal illness.

Vaccines Are One of Your Best Defenses

Travelers should schedule a medical consultation several weeks before departure, especially if visiting developing regions.

Depending on the destination, physicians may recommend:

Hepatitis A vaccination
Yellow fever vaccination
Routine immunizations
Malaria prevention medication

For much of Europe, however, standard vaccinations are generally sufficient, with no special travel vaccines required beyond routine food and water precautions.

Cruise Ships Carry Different Risks

Cruise vacations present their own unique health challenges.

Because thousands of passengers live in close quarters, viruses such as norovirus can spread rapidly if introduced onboard.

Frequent hand washing and careful hygiene remain among the best preventive measures during cruise travel.

Vaccine Hesitancy Is a Greater Concern at Home

Interestingly, Dr. Abraham noted that many Americans worry about contracting rare tropical diseases while traveling, when the larger public health concern is often much closer to home.

He explained that recent measles outbreaks in the United States are primarily driven by declining vaccination rates rather than international travel.

Meanwhile, diseases like Ebola receive significant media attention but pose extremely little risk to most travelers because transmission requires direct contact with infected bodily fluids.

Don’t Ignore Illness After Returning Home

Travel-related illnesses don’t always appear immediately.

If symptoms develop within days—or even weeks—after returning home, travelers should seek medical evaluation and tell their healthcare provider exactly where they traveled.

Certain infections, including malaria, typhoid fever, and tuberculosis, may not become apparent until well after the trip has ended.

Preparing Before You Leave Makes All the Difference

Dr. Abraham encourages travelers to plan ahead rather than worry.

Simple steps—including scheduling recommended vaccinations, practicing good hand hygiene, making smart food and water choices, considering travel insurance, and understanding destination-specific health risks—allow most people to travel confidently and safely.

His overall message is one of preparation, not fear: with thoughtful planning, international travel remains one of life’s most rewarding experiences.

Quick Travel Health Checklist

Schedule a travel medicine visit 4–6 weeks before departure

Check whether vaccinations are recommended for your destination

Eat foods that are fully cooked

Peel your own fruit whenever possible

Avoid ice if water quality is uncertain

Wash or sanitize your hands frequently

Consider travel insurance for international trips

Tell your doctor where you’ve traveled if you become sick after returning

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Worcester Launches Legacy Businesses Program Honoring City’s Longstanding Local Institutions

by Hank Stolz | Jun 26, 2026 | This Weeks Top Stories, WORCESTER NEWS

Worcester Launches Legacy Businesses Program Honoring City’s Longstanding Local Institutions

Worcester Celebrates the Businesses That Built Its Neighborhoods

“They’re really the neighborhood meetup spots where you go get services or a haircut or you go shopping.”

By-Hank Stolz
Graphic – Radio Worcester

WORCESTER, MA-

Some businesses are more than places to shop—they become part of a city’s identity.

The City of Worcester’s Economic Development Department has launched its inaugural Legacy Businesses Program, recognizing locally owned businesses that have served as neighborhood cornerstones for decades.

The first class honors 24 businesses, selected from more than 300 nominations submitted by residents and business owners throughout Worcester.

Together, the businesses average 70 years in operation, reflecting generations of entrepreneurship, resilience, and community service.

More Than Businesses—Community Landmarks

The program celebrates businesses that have become gathering places and neighborhood institutions.

Selections include historic diners, barbershops, specialty retailers, restaurants, ice cream shops, and other locally owned establishments that have helped shape Worcester’s character.

Assistant Chief Development Officer Vaske Gjino says many of these businesses represent something larger than commerce.

“They’re really the neighborhood meetup spots where you go get services or a haircut or you go shopping.”

Worcester’s Historic Diners Stand Out

One theme quickly emerged during the selection process.

Many of the city’s iconic diners earned recognition, highlighting Worcester’s unique place in American dining history.

For decades, the Worcester Lunch Car Company manufactured diners that became landmarks throughout New England and beyond.

Gjino says those historic diners remain an important part of Worcester’s identity.

“A theme that developed from this inaugural list was the diners. And I think that’s such a classic part of the city.”

How Businesses Were Selected

An independent committee evaluated nominations using several criteria, including:

Years in business
Local ownership
Fewer than 250 employees
Job creation
Community impact
Neighborhood representation
Historical significance

The selection committee included representatives from:

City of Worcester
Museum of Worcester
Preservation Worcester
Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce

Looking Ahead

City officials hope the Legacy Businesses Program will become an annual tradition.

Future plans include expanding the list of recognized businesses while developing historical profiles, promotional materials, and additional resources that help residents and visitors discover the businesses that have shaped Worcester’s neighborhoods.

Gjino says their longevity speaks for itself.

“That resiliency that these businesses represent is incredible.”

Listen Now

Hear the full conversation as Vaske Gjino discusses Worcester’s inaugural Legacy Businesses Program, the importance of preserving neighborhood institutions, and how longtime local businesses continue to define the city’s character.

2026 Inaugural Legacy Business Award Selections

Sneakerama, 12 Lake Ave.
Addie Lee’s Soul Food, 596 Main St.
Maria’s Kitchen, 826 Main St.
Jo Ann Warren Studio, 997 Millbury St.
Moynagh’s Tavern Inc., 25 Exchange St.
Boulevard Diner*, 155 Shrewsbury St.
Ralphs Chadwick Square Diner*, 148 Grove St.
Kenmore Diner*, 250 Franklin St.
Central Shoe Repair, 37 Mechanic St.
Da-Lat Restaurant, 425 Park Ave.
True Value Hardware, 113 Hamilton St.
Bonardi’s Formalwear, 179 Highland St.
Parkway Diner*, 148 Shrewsbury St.
Carlitos Barbershop, 925 Main St.
That’s Entertainment, 244 Park Ave.
Ed Hyder’s Mediterranean Marketplace, 408 Pleasant St.
George’s Coney Island, 158 Southbridge St.
CC Lowell, 455 Pleasant St.
Jerrys Tastee Freeze, 2 Inverness Ave.
Enchanted Fireside, 728 W. Boylston St.
Dodge Park LLC dba Dodge Park Rest Home, 101 Randolph Rd.
Lou Roc’s Diner, 1074 W. Boylston St.
Miss Worcester Diner*, 300 Southbridge St.
Marvin’s Corner Lunch, 131 Lamartine St.

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Voice Actor Jen Antkowiak: Why Human Connection Still Matters in the Age of AI

by Hank Stolz | Jun 24, 2026 | This Weeks Top Stories, VOICE OF BUSINESS

Voice Actor Jen Antkowiak: Why Human Connection Still Matters in the Age of AI

Human Connection Still Has a Voice

“I never thought I would own my own business, but now that I do, I realize it’s something that yes, I always wanted.”

By-Hank Stolz
Graphic – Radio Worcester

WORCESTER, MA- For voice actor Jen Antkowiak, technology continues to evolve, but authentic human connection remains at the center of great communication.

Appearing on Voice of Business with Hank Stolz, Antkowiak discusses her journey from theater and music into professional voice acting, the evolution of the voiceover industry, and how artificial intelligence is changing the profession she loves.

Today, Antkowiak is the owner of Soundshine Productions and is also the familiar voice behind Radio Worcester’s station bumpers and liners.

“Nothing really beats doing the bumpers for Radio Worcester. That is my favorite.”

From Theater to the Microphone

Antkowiak studied communications and music before performing in theater and taking on early voiceover work.

After marrying, raising a family, and working in corporate communications, she eventually found herself drawn back to performance—this time behind the microphone.

Working on corporate training videos helped her discover that voice acting offered everything she enjoyed about performing while providing flexibility and longevity.

She eventually built a professional home recording studio and now records national commercial, corporate, and narration projects from home.

Modern Voiceover Is About Conversation

One of the biggest changes in the industry, according to Antkowiak, is how clients expect talent to sound.

Traditional “radio announcer” delivery has largely given way to conversational, authentic performances that sound natural rather than scripted.

Instead of trying to impress listeners, today’s successful voice actors focus on creating genuine human connection.

“It’s kind of like a puzzle that’s fun to put together. What are they really looking for? They want strong but warm and fierce but kind.”

AI Is Changing the Industry—But Not Replacing Humanity

Artificial intelligence has become increasingly capable of producing realistic voices.

Antkowiak acknowledges the technology is improving rapidly but believes audiences can still recognize the subtle emotional qualities that only human performers naturally deliver.

She compares today’s marketplace to “dollar store versus Tiffany’s,” suggesting both AI and professional voice talent will continue serving different needs.

Premium brands, she says, increasingly choose real human voices because authenticity itself has become part of their brand identity.

She also discusses the possibility that voice actors may eventually license AI versions of their voices while continuing to offer premium human performances.

Building a Business Around Creativity

Beyond voice acting, Antkowiak reflects on becoming an entrepreneur.

While she never imagined owning a business earlier in life, she now appreciates the opportunity to direct her own career.

Although represented by agents and managers, she actively markets herself to production companies and advertising agencies, giving her control over both her creative work and business growth.

“I never thought I would own my own business, but now that I do, I realize it’s something that yes, I always wanted.”

Hear Jen Antkowiak discuss voice acting, artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship, branding, and why authentic human voices continue to matter on this episode of Voice of Business on Radio Worcester.

Who Are the Most Successful Voiceover Actors in History?

The voiceover industry has produced some of the most recognizable voices in entertainment, advertising, and broadcasting. While success can be measured in many ways—including longevity, earnings, awards, and cultural impact—these performers are widely regarded among the most influential voice actors in history.

Mel Blanc (1908–1989)

Often called “The Man of a Thousand Voices,” Mel Blanc created or defined the voices of many of Warner Bros.’ most famous cartoon characters, including Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Porky Pig, Sylvester, Tweety, Yosemite Sam, and Foghorn Leghorn. His work helped establish voice acting as a respected profession.

Don LaFontaine (1940–2008)

Known as “The Voice of God,” Don LaFontaine became synonymous with Hollywood movie trailers. His deep, commanding narration was heard in more than 5,000 film trailers and hundreds of thousands of television commercials and promotional spots.

James Earl Jones (1931–2024)

One of the most recognizable voices ever recorded, James Earl Jones provided the iconic voice of Darth Vader in Star Wars and Mufasa in The Lion King. Beyond film, his voice became a trusted presence in documentaries, commercials, and broadcast promotions.

Nancy Cartwright (1957– )

Nancy Cartwright is best known as the voice of Bart Simpson on The Simpsons. She also voices numerous other Springfield characters, making her one of the most successful television voice actors of all time.

Frank Welker (1946– )

With a career spanning more than five decades, Frank Welker has voiced thousands of characters, including Fred Jones from Scooby-Doo, Megatron from Transformers, and countless animal sounds and creature effects for television and film. He is widely regarded as one of the most prolific voice actors in history.

June Foray (1917–2017)

Often referred to as “The First Lady of Voice Acting,” June Foray voiced Rocky the Flying Squirrel, Natasha Fatale, Granny from Looney Tunes, and hundreds of other characters during a career that lasted nearly 80 years.

Hank Azaria (1964– )

Hank Azaria has voiced dozens of beloved characters on The Simpsons, including Moe Szyslak, Chief Wiggum, Comic Book Guy, and Professor Frink. His versatility has earned multiple Emmy Awards.

Tara Strong (1973– )

One of today’s most accomplished voice actors, Tara Strong’s credits include The Powerpuff Girls, The Fairly OddParents, Teen Titans, My Little Pony, numerous video games, and animated feature films.

The Evolution of Voice Acting

The industry has changed dramatically over the past several decades. Traditional “announcer” styles that once dominated radio and television have largely given way to a more conversational, authentic delivery. Today, commercial voice actors are often asked to sound like trusted friends rather than broadcasters—a shift that Jen Antkowiak discusses in her interview on Voice of Business.

Sources

The Encyclopedia of Voice Actors by Barry Monush (Applause Books)
The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (Emmy Awards)
Warner Bros. Studio Archives
The Walt Disney Company Archives
Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
The Voice Foundation
SAG-AFTRA Voiceover Resources

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Britain’s Political Turmoil Continues as Keir Starmer Steps Down

by Hank Stolz | Jun 23, 2026 | This Weeks Top Stories

What Keir Starmer’s Resignation Means for Britain: Robert Amorello on the UK’s Next Prime Minister

Andy Burnham Expected to Succeed Starmer Amid Growing Challenges

“The next Prime Minister will be the seventh in 10 years. And this isn’t something that’s reflective of a defect in the British political system. It’s just rank incompetence on the part of every incumbent”

By-Hank Stolz
Graphic – Radio Worcester

WORCESTER, MA-Radio Worcester’s political expert on all things British, Robert Amorello, runs down what Sir Keir Starmer’s resignation as Prime Minister means. “The next Prime Minister will be the seventh in 10 years. And this isn’t something that’s reflective of a defect in the British political system. It’s just rank incompetence on the part of every incumbent.”

Andy Burnham, the former mayor of Greater Manchester, is expected to succeed Starmer as Labour Party leader and Prime Minister within approximately one month. Amorello says, while Burnham may offer improved competence, the UK faces significant challenges including immigration control, economic mismanagement, unsustainable welfare spending, excessive taxation, and severe military readiness issues. “They’re borrowing and borrowing money to an extent that makes the United States look frugal and prudent.”

The conservative opposition remains fractured across three separate parties. The transition period will leave the government partially paralyzed, with a delayed Defense Review and limited executive action until Burnham officially assumes office. The UK’s declining global influence and weakened relationship with the United States reflect the country’s broader institutional and economic deterioration. “The United Kingdom is really a shell of what it was 30 or 40 years ago, let alone what it was a hundred years ago” says Amorello.

Who Do Historians Rank as Britain’s Greatest Prime Ministers?

Ask a room full of historians to rank Britain’s prime ministers and you’ll get some disagreement, but a handful of leaders consistently appear near the top of the list.

One of the most surprising results in many historian surveys is that Clement Attlee often ranks either first or second alongside Churchill. While Churchill is more famous, Attlee’s post-war government established the NHS, expanded social welfare programs, and reshaped modern Britain—making him one of the most highly regarded prime ministers among scholars.

1. Winston Churchill
Perhaps the most recognizable British prime minister, Churchill led the United Kingdom through its darkest hours during World War II. His leadership, speeches, and refusal to negotiate with Nazi Germany have made him a symbol of national resilience. While his broader political record remains debated, historians almost universally place him among Britain’s greatest leaders.

2. Clement Attlee
Often overlooked by the public but highly regarded by scholars, Attlee served from 1945 to 1951 and oversaw the creation of the modern British welfare state. His government established the National Health Service (NHS), expanded social programs, and managed Britain’s postwar recovery.

3. William Pitt the Younger
Taking office at just 24 years old, Pitt led Britain during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Historians credit him with strengthening government finances and helping position Britain as a dominant global power.

4. Robert Walpole
Although the title did not officially exist at the time, Walpole is generally considered Britain’s first prime minister. Serving from 1721 to 1742, he established many of the political practices that continue to define the office today.

5. David Lloyd George
Lloyd George led Britain through the final years of World War I and helped shape the postwar settlement. He is also remembered for introducing major social reforms that expanded government support for working-class citizens.

Other Frequently Mentioned Names

Depending on the survey, historians also regularly place these leaders among Britain’s most influential:

Margaret Thatcher
Benjamin Disraeli
William Gladstone
Harold Macmillan

Where Does Keir Starmer Rank?
It’s far too early for historians to make a meaningful assessment. Historical rankings typically emerge decades after a leader leaves office, allowing scholars to evaluate the long-term impact of their decisions on the economy, foreign policy, national security, and society.

Interesting Context
If Andy Burnham ultimately succeeds Keir Starmer, Britain will have had seven prime ministers in roughly a decade—a remarkable contrast to some of the country’s most highly ranked leaders. Walpole served for 21 years, Pitt for nearly 19 years across two terms, and Thatcher served for more than 11 years. Historians often associate longevity and political stability with a leader’s ability to leave a lasting legacy.

Sources

University of Leeds / Ipsos MORI Historian Surveys
November 2014

The British Academy
The British Academy

Institute for Government
Institute for Government

Encyclopaedia Britannica
Encyclopaedia Britannica – Prime Ministers of Great Britain

UK Parliament Historical Resources
UK Parliament History Resources

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