Part of Highland Street to Close for Nearly a Month

WORCESTER – Work to replace a gas main will close the lane of traffic heading westbound on Highland Street in Worcester for nearly a month, between 8 AM and 5 PM. The closure will occur from Haviland Street to Park Avenue.

The closure area is about a two block area immediately after crossing over Park Avenue when travelling on Highland Street from Downtown Worcester. The lane of traffic heading toward downtown will remain open.

The work, conducted by Eversource, begins on Monday, July 29, and is expected to be completed by Friday, Aug. 23.

During the closure of the lane of traffic that heads away from downtown Worcester, motorists will be redirected to go south on Park Avenue to Pleasant Street.

Area residents will be able to access their homes by using the open eastbound lane of Highland Street or by using Institute Road to access the areas east of Haviland Street.

All motorists are urged to avoid the area when at all possible.

Parking Restrictions Announced in Canal District on Sunday

WORCESTER – The City of Worcester will implement restrictions on parking in the Canal District and Green Island neighborhoods of Worcester for a period of eight hours, starting on Sunday, July 28, at 9 PM.

The city’s Department of Transportation and Mobility will lead the re-painting of existing pavement markings in these areas overnight on Sunday. The restriction are expected to be lifted at 5 AM on Monday, July 29, at 5 AM.

During this period, the following restrictions will be in place:

• Harding St (Franklin St to Kelley Sq) – No Parking on the even numbered (west) side.
• Water St (Franklin St to Kelley Sq) – No Parking on the even numbered (west) side.
• Green St (Foster St to Kelley Sq) – No parking on the even numbered (east) side.
• Millbury St (Kelley Sq to Quinsigamond Ave) – No parking on the odd numbered (east) side.

Vehicles in violation of these restrictions will be subject to towing.

The Rise of ESG Investing and Its Implications for Corporations

(Editor’s Note: GSR Markets sponsored this content)

ESG investing is becoming a significant force in the financial world. As more investors look to align their portfolios with their values, ESG criteria are gaining prominence in investment decision-making. This shift isn’t just about ethics; it’s also about performance. 

Companies that score well on ESG metrics often show better risk management and long-term sustainability, which can translate to stronger financial returns. For corporations, this trend brings both opportunities and challenges. 

In this article, we’ll explore how ESG investing is reshaping corporate strategies and what this means for businesses today.

What is ESG Trading?

ESG trading focuses on investments in companies that prioritize environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors. These criteria assess how companies manage issues like climate change, social responsibility, and corporate governance. This type of trading involves buying and selling shares or ETFs of companies that score highly on these metrics, thereby promoting sustainable and ethical business practices.

Investors interested in ESG trading often seek to support companies that actively contribute to positive social and environmental outcomes, while also maintaining strong governance practices. This approach not only aligns with ethical values but can also enhance long-term financial returns by identifying well-managed, forward-thinking companies.

The History of ESG Trading

The concept of ESG trading originated in the 1960s with socially responsible investing (SRI), which initially focused on excluding harmful industries. This approach gradually expanded to include environmental, social, and governance factors, forming the basis of modern ESG investing. 

Today, ESG criteria are a mainstream consideration for a wide range of investors. According to US News, investors who use one or more ESG criteria controlled $8.4 trillion in U.S.-domiciled assets in 2022, highlighting the significant influence of ESG principles in the investment landscape​.

ESG Criteria and Frameworks

In ESG investing, understanding the criteria and frameworks used to evaluate companies is crucial. Two of the most widely recognized frameworks are the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB). 

The GRI provides a comprehensive set of standards that help organizations disclose their environmental, social, and economic impacts, targeting a broad range of stakeholders including investors, regulators, and the general public. 

In contrast, SASB focuses on industry-specific standards that highlight the financial materiality of sustainability issues, primarily catering to the needs of investors. These frameworks are complementary, with GRI offering broad, principle-based guidance, while SASB provides detailed, industry-specific metrics.

How to Identify ESG Investment Opportunities

Identifying ESG investment opportunities involves evaluating companies based on their Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria. This can be done through specialized screening tools and databases that highlight companies excelling in areas like climate impact, social justice, and governance practices. 

Start by examining the company’s environmental impact, focusing on factors like carbon emissions, contamination of groundwater, and resource usage. Evaluate their social impact by looking into practices related to diversity and inclusion, labor conditions, and community engagement efforts. For governance, consider the diversity of the board, executive compensation policies, and the rights of shareholders. 

For those trading on a crypto OTC trading platform, it’s essential to look for companies with strong ESG ratings, as these metrics can influence long-term performance and investment attractiveness.

What Are the Implications of ESG Investing for Corporations? 

As ESG investing gains momentum, its implications for corporations are becoming increasingly significant. Let’s take a closer look at these implications.

Enhanced Corporate Reputation

Adopting ESG practices can significantly enhance a company’s reputation. As consumers and investors become more environmentally and socially conscious, they prefer businesses that demonstrate responsible behavior. Companies that align with ESG criteria often enjoy better public perception, which can lead to increased customer loyalty and brand value.

Increased Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management

Corporations are facing growing regulatory requirements related to ESG issues, such as carbon emissions and social governance. Compliance with these regulations not only helps companies avoid legal penalties but also enhances their ability to manage risks associated with environmental and social factors. This proactive approach can safeguard a company’s long-term viability and investor confidence.

Attracting and Retaining Talent

Companies with strong ESG practices often find it easier to attract and retain top talent. Employees increasingly seek employers who reflect their own values, particularly in terms of environmental stewardship and social responsibility. A strong ESG profile can make a company more appealing to potential employees, enhancing its competitive edge in the talent market.

Access to Capital and Investor Interest

Corporations with strong ESG credentials often attract more investor interest and gain better access to capital. This interest is driven by the perception that ESG-compliant companies are more likely to provide stable returns and are better equipped to manage risks. 

Additionally, there are often tax incentives for businesses that engage in sustainable practices, further enhancing their financial appeal to investors. ESG-focused funds and investment products are growing rapidly, reflecting a broader trend among investors who prioritize sustainability and ethical governance in their portfolios​.

Innovation and Long-term Growth

Implementing ESG strategies can drive innovation and long-term growth. Companies that focus on sustainable practices often develop new technologies and business models that reduce costs and create new revenue streams. This focus on innovation not only addresses current ESG issues but also positions companies for future challenges and opportunities, ensuring sustainable growth.

48-Year-Old Worcester Man Indicted for Child Pornography

WORCESTER – A federal grand jury in Worcester indicted a local man on Thursday, July 25, for child pornography.

The grand jury indicted Charlton Pasley, 48, of Worcester, on charges of the receipt and possession of child pornography.

Prosecutors filed charges against Pasley on July 1. They did not announce a date for arraignment after the indictment.

According to federal prosecutors, a search of Pasley’s home in June led to the discovery of electronic devices allegedly containing material depicting child sexual abuse. He allegedly admitted to law enforcement that used several social media platforms to view and download the material.

The charge of receipt of child pornography provides for a sentence of at least five years and up to 20 years in prison.

The charge of possession of child pornography provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison.

Both charges carry at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000.

Man Arrested for Hatchet Attack in Worcester

WORCESTER – Police arrested a man on Wednesday, July 24, for allegedly striking a man with a hatchet or some type of ax.

Police responded to Ward Street on Saturday, July 20, just before midnight, after a report of a man injured with a dangerous weapon. The attack reportedly occured on Jefferson Street.

Upon arrival at the scene, officers located a man suffering from being struck in the neck with the weapon. Officers provided medical aid until EMS transfered the man to a local hospital.

An investigation by detectives led to the successful application for a warrant for the arrest of Jorge Torres-Maldonado, 36, of Worcester.

Officers located Torres-Maldonado on Millbury Street at around 5:30 on Wednesday, where he was arrested. He faces charges of:

• Armed Robbery;
• Armed Assault to Murder; and
• Aggravated Assault and Battery (serious bodily injury).

53-Year-Old Woman Arrested for Machine Gun, Drugs

WORCESTER – A search warrant led to the arrest of a woman for a machine gun and drugs on Monday, July 22.

Officers for the Worcester Police Department successfully requested a search warrant for a black BMW and an address on Florence Street. Officers located the subject of the warrant, Natasha Perry, 53, of Worcester, exit the residence and enter the vehicle.

Officers followed the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop at Chandler Street and Irving Street. They detained Perry while a search of the vehicle and residence took place.

During the search, officers discovered what they believed to be a Masterpiece Arms MAC-10 style machine gun, an extended magazine, what they described as a large amount of what appeared to be cocaine, paraphernalia, and packaging materials.

Perry does not have a licence to carry firearms or a machine gun license.

Officers arrested Perry, who faces charges of:

• Possession of a Machine Gun;
• Possession of a Large Capacity Feeding Device;
• Possession of a Class B Substance with Intent to Distribute;
• Trafficking in Class B 37-99 Grams;
• Use of a Firearm in a Felony;
• Improper Storage of a Firearm; and
• Possession of a Large Capacity Firearm.

Mosquito Spraying in Worcester on Thursday, July 25

WORCESTER – The Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project (CMMCP) scheduled a truck-mounted pesticide spraying in Worcester on Thursday, July 25, after 8:30 PM.

The announcement comes after the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed detection of West Nile Virus (WNV) in mosquitos collected in Worcester.

The detection came from a sample of mosquitoes. Cases of WNV in humans have not been detected.

If the weather prevents the spraying, it will take place on Friday, July 26.

CMMCP also tentatively plans to be in Worcester on Aug. 6, 13, 20, and 27 to respond to mosquito related concerns from residents.

Worcester had four WNV positive mosquito samples and one human case identified in 2023. While WNV can infect people of all ages, people over the age of 50 are at higher risk of severe infection. Most people infected with WNV will have no symptoms, although some may experience fever, flu-like illness, and—in rare cases—more severe illness.

The area to be sprayed includes Rural Cemetery and several surrounding blocks. Institute Park will not be sprayed at this time.Residents can find a map of the areas CMMCP expects to spray can be found at the bottom of this page.

The streets included in the area are:

Precautions to Take and Additional Information

Residents in the areas planned for spraying should take the following precautions.

• Close street-facing windows and turn off any “outside air” settings on air conditioners.
• Keep pets inside between sunset and midnight, and do not let children play near or behind truck-mounted applicators when they are in use.
• Remain inside during the application and for 15-20 minutes afterwards.
• Wash off any vegetables from home gardens after spraying and before consuming them.

Residents may opt-out of spraying of their property by visiting the Massachusetts state website.

To avoid mosquito bites and the diseases they can transmit, residents are encouraged to practice the 5 Ds:

• DRESS in long sleeves and pants when possible. Cover up during periods of mosquito activity.
• DEET is an effective insect repellent. Always follow the label instructions.
• DAWN & DUSK are mosquitoes’ most active periods.
• DRAIN water from containers weekly. Avoid standing water, such as rain collecting in open bins, buckets, or toys.

Clothing treated with insect repellent is also available, and permethrin—the repellent commonly used—can be applied to treat clothing manually. Installing and repairing screens will help to keep mosquitoes out of homes.

See the state website, or call the MDPH Division of Epidemiology at 617-983-6800, for more information from MDPH, including all WNV and Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) positive results in the state,

If an animal is suspected of having WNV or EEE, owners are required to report it to the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources, Division of Animal Health by calling 617-626-1795, and to MDPH by calling 617-983-6800.

CMMCP offers a variety of services such as ditch maintenance and abandoned swimming pool treatment. Residents may access forms for all service requests on the CMMCP website, or they may call 508-393-3055, Monday through Friday between 7 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Information about the products and Integrated Pest Management program used by the CMMCP is available at its website.

CMMCP also publishes is spraying schedules, and specific areas to be sprayed will be posted both on its website and phone system (508-393-3055) each day after 3:30 p.m.

Worcester Man Stopped on Moped Arrested on Drug Charges

WORCESTER – A local man stopped by police while operating a moped on Main Street was arrested on drug charges on Tuesday.

At around 6:30 PM, officers observed a man on a moped on Main Street turn into a parking lot of a convenience store without using a directional. After the man entered the store, officers determined the registration for the moped had expired.

Inside the store, officers informed Wilberto Negron, 49, of Worcester, that he was operating the moped with an expired registration. Officers soon determined his license to operate a motor vehicle was revoked.

Officers also saw that Negron possessed a large amount of cash inside a fanny pack he was wearing. During a search, officers located multiple baggies of substances later determined to be over 22 grams of fentanyl and over four grams of cocaine.

Negron faces charges of:

• Trafficking more than 10 grams of Fentanyl;
• Possession with Intent to Distribute Class B;
• Operating a Motor Vehicle with a Revoked License; and
• Expired Registration.

Massachusetts Motor Vehicle Inspections Reopen

BOSTON – The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) announced that motor vehicle inspections began again on Wednesday, July 24, at most locations with site workstations.

Anyone with a vehicle which previously failed an inspection, and had a reinspection deadline that fell between July 19 and July 24, must get a reinspection by no later than August 10. The reinspection remains free of charge through that date.

A global outage of some computer systems on Friday, July 19, led to the inspections system outage. The Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) says coordination with the vendor, OPUS, and with inspection sites with remaining issues, continues.

Vehicle inspections resume today, July 24. Visit https://t.co/gWy9D74lgY for a station near you. For more info visit https://t.co/PLZCHxAxuU. pic.twitter.com/vhFBzAFv8A

— Massachusetts RMV (@MassRMV) July 24, 2024

Image Credit: Reading Massachusetts Police Department/ Facebook

Court Appoints New Leader of 3 Mass. Rehab Hospitals

WHITINSVILLE – A Suffolk County court has ordered a received to take control of three rehabilitation facilities operated by Blupoint Healthcare in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell petitioned the court to place the facilities in the custody of a third party. KCP Advisory Group LLC of Billerica was selected as the receiver. The court named Paul Valentine, a senior managing director of the company, as the i9ndividual receiver.

The facilities are Blackstone Valley Health and Rehabilitation in Whitinsville, Mill Town Health and Rehabilitation in Amesbury, and Pioneer Valley Health and Rehabilitation in North Hadley. All thr4ee provide long-term care and rehabilitation services.

Earlier this month, employees organized a picket at the South Hadley facility. Employees said they had been overworked, understaffed, and lacked supplies for months. Some payroll checks bounced, leaving employees unpaid for weeks at a time.

A demonstration organized by employees in Whitinsville, at the town common in Northbridge, took place soon after. Those employees said they hadn’t been paid in a month and experienced bounced payroll checks.

State Senator Jacob Oliveira and State Representative Daniel Carey, who both represent parts of Western Massachusetts, asked Campbell’s office to investigate. That investigation led to the petition filed in Suffolk District Court.

The court ordered all directors, officers, employees, and agents of Blupoint to turn over possession and control of all assets of the company to the receiver.

The court also authorized the receiver to take possession of all bank accounts, accounts receivable, property, and other assets. The order says the receiver will “manage and operate the facilities” and “effectuate an orderly closure of the facilities.”

Image Credit: Google