Good morning, Springfield.

Memorial services for longtime state representative and civil rights activist Ben Swan are scheduled for Saturday at Macedonia Church of God in Christ on Tinkham Road.

Services will begin at 10 a.m. with Masonic rites, follow with a calling hour at 11 a.m., and continue with a celebration of life at noon.

On Wednesday, a student from another district became unresponsive at High Meadow during a field trip with Wethersfield 8th graders and was taken to a nearby hospital.

School staff quickly escorted the other students and plan to offer support to families.

Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts in Springfield announced new board members Jennifer McNeill and Allison Kline, experts in education and talent development who will advance programs in financial literacy and career readiness.

Their appointment strengthens links with schools and community organizations across the region.

Wildlife officials at UMass Amherst contained a black bear sighting on Wednesday morning near the Mullins Center.

The female bear, (weighing about 225 to 250 lb), climbed trees before being immobilized and moved to a wooded area for cooling and research.

Springfield DPW announced on Wednesday morning that the Putts Bridge replacement project is scheduled for 2028, potentially adding to traffic delays as West Street Bridge remains closed.

Local drivers and business owners worry about increased congestion with only three major bridges available (a limited crossing option).

West Springfield Middle School will start fall without a dedicated school resource officer because the police department faces staffing shortages — local officials say additional trainees will soon restore coverage.

Springfield Thunderbirds Head Coach Steve Ott will remain for two more seasons — he led the team to an 18-14-2 record and a deep playoff run, and he plans to focus on developing young players for future training camps.

Agawam firefighter Mike Consolini won the 4th annual Ironman 70.3 race recently, finishing with a time of (03:30:14) and earning the nickname (Iron Mike); he will compete in a half Ironman in Maine in July and aim for the full World Championships in October.

High school pitcher Brody Bumila (18) from Bishop Feehan is predicted by scouts to join the Padres in the 2026 MLB Draft after a strong comeback from injury and a standout performance in the MIAA quarterfinals.

On June 5 at Franconia Golf Course, Agawam Mayor Christopher Johnson and the team from Charlie Arment Trucking won trophies at the Spirit of Springfield Golf Classic, which also held contests whose proceeds will support future city events.

25th Annual GTO Car Show

9 a.m. - 2 p.m. — Springfield Elks Lodge #61 — Registration required — Celebrate classic cars and support local charities with the Pioneer Valley GTO Association.

Downtown Springfield Farmers' Market

11 a.m. to 3 p.m. — MassMutual Center — Free entry — Explore fresh produce, local crafts, and enjoy live music in a vibrant community setting.

ROAR! Comedy: Don McMillan

8-9:30 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Tickets available — Enjoy 'the funniest PowerPoint presentation' by a top comedian featured on America's Got Talent.

Stompin’ Boots Dance Night

8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Free entry — Kick up your boots with line dancing and electrifying DJ music at MGM Springfield.

Black Music Month Celebration at White Lion Brewing

6-10 p.m. — White Lion Brewing Company — Free entry — Celebrate Black Music Month with live performances from Braye Nicole, Heshima Moja, and TMC Band in a lively beer garden atmosphere.

La Casita Experience

7-9 p.m. — MassMutual Center — Ticketed event — Immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of Puerto Rican culture with live music, food, and community spirit.

Lawn Party @ The Landing with Carol Devine & The Mighty Fine

4:30-7:30 p.m. — MassMutual Center — Free entry — Enjoy a lively evening of Classic Soul and Funk with Carol Devine & The Mighty Fine.

Downtown Springfield Farmers Market

11 AM – 3 PM — MassMutual Center — Free entry — Explore fresh local produce and enjoy live music at this vibrant farmers market.

Independence Day Celebration in Springfield

6-10 p.m. — Riverfront Park — Free admission — Celebrate Independence Day with live music and a spectacular fireworks show over the river.

2026 Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival

Friday night and Saturday — Court Square — Free entry — Experience a vibrant blend of jazz, blues, and cultural discussions in the heart of Springfield.