Good morning, Springfield.

A motorcyclist sustained life-threatening injuries in a West Springfield crash that blocked a road while Accident Reconstruction Team members investigated the scene (further updates are pending).

BJ’s Wholesale Club said it will open a new store along Boston Road later this winter at Springfield Crossing — the location will include a gas station and employ between 100 and 150 people.

The retailer also said it will make weekly donations to the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts.

A Salem man, Jay Blodget (30), was charged with two counts of murder after two men were found dead in a wooded area next to the Walmart at 450 Highland Ave on April 23, and he pleaded not guilty while he is held without bail with his next court appearance scheduled for July 24.

A Springfield man was arrested Thursday—facing illegal gun and drug charges.

Local gardening experts from South Hadley's Full Circle Food Pantry Garden and Springfield's Forest Park are sharing simple tips for planting tomatoes, composting, and creating pollinator pathways—this series will run monthly this summer.

The advice shows how to plant tomatoes in loose soil when the ground is warm, use clean straw for mulch, and choose native plants to support local bees and butterflies.

Springfield WORKS and United Way of Pioneer Valley launched the Bridge to Prosperity program to help families on public benefits avoid the cliff effect by providing cash assistance with coaching and career networking.

The pilot includes participants from Springfield, Worcester and Boston and aims to serve as a model for future statewide policy change.

The Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership announced $422,000 in funding for 16 summer programs at the Springfield Jewish Community Center to serve hundreds of local youth—this initiative, selected by the state, has already supported nearly 30 organizations and more than 3,700 students in past years.

David O’Connell: Live Music

6-9 p.m. — Irish House Restaurant and Trinity Pub at the Irish Cultural Center — Dinner reservations available — Enjoy an evening of live music while dining on Irish delights.

The Willie J. Laws Band

9-11:59 p.m. — Theodore's Blues, Booze, and BBQ — Cover charge at the door — Enjoy a unique blend of Texas roots music infused with funk and jazz from a celebrated local band.

ROAR! Comedy: Janelle Draper

8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of laughs with Janelle Draper at The Armory.

Yankee Classic Cluster Dog Shows

8 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Eastern States Exposition — Admission varies — Enjoy a showcase of dog breeds with clubs from Kenilworth, Holyoke, Farmington & Naugatuck.

47th Annual Springfield's Big Fourth 5K

9 AM – 12 PM — Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame — Online registration available — Celebrate Independence Day with a fun run in Springfield.

Basketball Camp: Scoring College

July 7th-11th — Springfield College — Registration required — Enhance your basketball skills and mindset with expert training.

Ed Popielarczyk's Comedy Magic Show for Kids

10–11 a.m. — Stanley Park — Free entry — Enjoy a lively comedy magic show featuring interactive storytelling and balloon sculptures for children.

Mt Carmel Italian Feast

4-6 p.m. — Casa Italiana — $5 entry fee — Celebrate Italian culture with food, music, and community at the Mt Carmel Italian Feast.