Good morning, Springfield.

SPRINGFIELD—The Foundation for TJO Animals named Janna Brown its new executive director after she served as interim director for a year and a board member for five years.

Brown, known for her work at the TJO animal rescue center, will lead the organization to strengthen animal welfare in our community.

On June 13, volunteers from Whittlesey’s Holyoke office helped at the Zoo in Forest Park and Education Center in Springfield during their 15th annual Community Day — they painted fences, cleaned the grounds, and built wooden display boxes to support animal care and conservation education.

Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts welcomed eight new board members during its annual meeting in Holyoke—now totaling 21 members—as they set to guide programs for 6,000 girls across 186 communities.

This change in leadership is expected to support the organization's efforts in youth development and community outreach.

Springfield is opening cooling centers at eight city locations including Indian Orchard Community Center, South End Community Center, Raymond A.

Jordan Senior Center, Senior Center in the North End, Mason Square Library Community Room, Hungry Hill Senior Center, and Clodo Concepcion Community Center to help residents cope with extreme heat from today through Wednesday. Most centers will operate from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. — however, Forest Park Library will be open from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Massachusetts fire marshal warns residents against illegal fireworks ahead of July 4 as records show that these unauthorized devices have caused over 200 serious injuries, more than 500 fires and explosions, and nearly $1 million in damages over the past five years—firefighters and paramedics may be pulled from other emergencies.

Springfield is testing a property swap to find a five-acre parcel near the German Gerena Community School on Birnie Avenue due to a land shortage in the North End.

City officials said the new school will finish construction by 2030—drone tours so far have not found a suitable property.

Basketball legends gathered in West Springfield at Hooplandia this past weekend at the Eastern States Exposition, where John Doleva (of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame) said the tournament seeks to grow from 275 teams to as many as 500 next year.

Harlem Globetrotters’ Showboat added that the event gives young players a fair chance to improve their game.

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.

Basketball Camp: Point Guard College

July 15th-19th — Springfield College — $1,195 — Elevate basketball skills and IQ at a premier training camp for aspiring players.

Saturday Art Lab for Kids and Families

11 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Make-It Springfield — Free entry — Explore creativity with painting, drawing, fashion, and more during a fun Saturday art lab for kids and families.