Good morning, Springfield.

Attorney Claudia Quintero, director of the Central West Justice Center in Springfield, received the Legal Services Award on June 2 from the Massachusetts Bar Association for her work helping low-income and elderly clients.

She also leads the Fairness for Farmworkers Coalition and teaches law at Western New England University.

Springfield singer-songwriter Alex Rohan will perform his hometown show at Theodores’ (201 Worthington St.) on July 2 at 8 p.m. Rohan, known for his solo looping performances on a busy East Coast tour, will balance live shows with family life.

Marsha Harbison took her final bow on May 2 after 47 years with the Springfield Symphony Orchestra in Longmeadow — her farewell concert honored her late husband as family and colleagues celebrated a storied career.

She prepped for his memorial service on June 13.

The Springfield Jazz and Roots Festival will take place at Court Square on July 10-11, featuring New Orleans funk, Afro-Cuban jazz, and global roots music along with workshops and talks (including one with Etienne Charles) that celebrate the city’s cultural heritage.

Latinos for Education hosted its fifth annual Latino Educators Shine Awards at the MCLE Conference Center in Boston, honoring four Springfield educators for their work in classrooms and community leadership (a teacher, counselor, principal, and deputy director were recognized) with state lawmakers joining the ceremony.

The Department of Public Works moved trash and recycling pickup earlier due to a predicted heat wave starting today, asking residents to place items out by 4 a.m. for service through Friday, including bulk items (which must also be ready by 4 a.m.).

Collections continue as scheduled despite the holiday.

A local doctor warns that during this hot weather, drinking too much plain water without electrolyte replacement may lead to dangerous salt loss and seizures, so residents should balance fluids accordingly.

He urged neighbors to call 911 if someone appears confused or is stumbling.

MassLive announced the 2026 All-Western Mass.

Softball selections on Monday, June 28 — naming top athletes from four classes across the region. East Longmeadow, Frontier, and Hoosac Valley led in strong showings among local schools.

West Region softball finalized its roster for the Bay State Games, where group games start Tuesday, July 7 at the Willard Field Complex in Devens with medal games on Thursday, July 9.

The team features four players from Hampshire Regional and seeks a third consecutive gold medal.

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.

Misha Brown Live Performance

8:30-11:30 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Tickets required — Experience the captivating influence of social media star Misha Brown with a night of entertainment.

Springfield Dragon Boat Festival - Individual Registration

6 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Pioneer Valley Riverfront Club — Free entry — Sign up to paddle in a dragon boat and enjoy a day of community fun and teamwork.

Yoga on the Landing

11 a.m. – 1 p.m. — MassMutual Center — Free entry — Engage in gentle yoga sequences and sound healing while connecting with the community in a serene outdoor environment.

Lawn Party @ The Landing Featuring La Era Del Mambo

4:30-7:30 p.m. — MassMutual Center — Free admission — Enjoy a lively evening of Latin sounds with La Era Del Mambo.

Heritage Pops Orchestra Concert

1-2:30 p.m. — Springfield Armory National Historic Site — Free — Enjoy a patriotic-themed concert on the historic grounds with the Heritage Pops Orchestra.

River of Dreams: A Tribute to Billy Joel

5-7 p.m. — Springfield City Library: Mason Square Branch — Get tickets — Experience the nostalgia of Billy Joel's greatest hits performed live.