In today’s daily 5 Things You Need to Know feature, ThisWeekinWorcester.com explores five important items and stories that Worcester and Central Massachusetts residents should keep a close eye on.
These five things can cover a whole range of subjects and issues that we feel are pertinent to understanding what’s going on in the city and the cities and towns surrounding Worcester.
In today’s edition – February 8, 2021 – Girls Inc. of Worcester receives a JetBlue Foundation grant, the Greg Hill Foundation is selling Worcester firefighter memorial shirts, there’s three days of free COVID-19 testing this week, the RMV launches new safety tools for new drivers, and sign up for virtual ice fishing lessons this week.
Girls Inc. of Worcester 1 of 12 JetBlue Foundation Grant Recipients
On Friday, JetBlue announced a round of rapid response grants from the JetBlue Foundation.
The round of emergency grants are issued to 12 aviation and science, technology, engineering and math [STEM] education grantees and partners in need of financial support to continue their critical work reaching students and communities traditionally underrepresented in these fields.
Among the 12 recipients is Girls Inc. of Worcester.
According to JetBlue, the grant awarded to Girls Inc. will ensure some of the most underserved and vulnerable girls in the Worcester community continue to have access to vital services and academic support.
Greg Hill Foundation Selling WFD Memorial T-Shirts
The Greg Hill Foundation is selling long sleeve t-shirts [see image above] to honor and remember Worcester firefighters John Davies and Chris Roy and Lieutenant Jason Menard.
The shirt is this month’s store item being sold as a fundraiser for the foundation’ Beyond The Cause Campaign.
The shirts are $35 each and can be purchased here. The proceeds from each purchase will go towards a matching donation for a future beneficiary in need.
Free COVID-19 Tests Available this Week in Worcester
Thanks to a partnership between the City of Worcester and UMass Memorial Health Care, there are three days of free COVID-19 testing this week in Worcester.
Testing is available at Mercantile Center at 201 Commercial St. in downtown Worcester on the following dates and times:
- Monday, February 8, 11 AM to 3 PM
- Tuesday, February 9, 11 AM to 3 PM
- Thursday, February 11, 11 AM to 3 PM
No appointment is necessary.
Massachusetts RMV Launches New Tools for First Time Drivers
The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles [RMV] has launched new resources and tools that individuals can use as they begin the process of learning how to drive safely and responsibly.
A new informational online portal has been created to provide easy access to a variety of educational resources and materials that can be used to help guide first-time drivers, and parents and guardians of Junior Operators, through the detailed step-by-step process of securing a Massachusetts driving credential.
The RMV is also for the first time offering online practice learner’s permit exams which can be accessed by customers through Mass.Gov/RMV or by logging into their myRMV account. Customers now can also purchase a copy of the Massachusetts Class D (Passenger) Drivers Manual and Commercial Driver’s License Manual online using their myRMV accounts, instead of visiting a Service Center.
Introduction to Ice Fishing Virtual Event is Wednesday Night
If you’ve ever been interested in giving ice fishing a try, mark your calendar for Wednesday, February 10.
Join the MassWildlife Angler Education Program, Tatnuck Brook Watershed Association, and Indian Lake Watershed Association for an introductory, all ages, ice fishing how-to program.
This two part event will begin with a virtual learning class hosted by MassWildife to provide participants an overview of ice fishing equipment, techniques, rules, and the safety elements required to enjoy winter fishing.
Following the virtual event, participants have the option to sign up for one of two hands-on ice fishing events at either Indian Lake or Cooks Pond in Worcester. All fishing equipment and materials will be provided. While no fishing license is required, online registration is, as space is limited. Virtual training is a prerequisite for either outing. In person ice fishing event is optional.
To register for the event, click here.
View this post on Instagram
Lead image courtesy: The Greg Hill Foundation