Good morning, Springfield.

A Springfield man reunited with his mother’s ashes after a Facebook post led him to urns found during a clean-out in West Springfield.

He met with the finder (James Brown) and now plans to bury her remains later this summer.

United Way of Pioneer Valley will launch its Stuff the Bus school supply drive on July 20 to collect essential items for children without stable homes—drop-off sites are available in Springfield and West Springfield.

The drive continues through July 31—local sponsors support the effort.

River Valley Co-op hosted its annual Strawberry Ice Cream Social fundraiser — a summer celebration of local food and community spirit — at its Easthampton store patio.

More than 850 community members enjoyed live music and treats while raising $26,358 for Tapestry Health.

The Harold Grinspoon Charitable Foundation released its 2026 Local Farmer Awards 12-Year update that shows more than $2 million invested in local farms since 2015.

In 2026, 128 farms received over $270,000 in grants to support capital improvements in Western Mass (the report details award recipients and partner recognitions).

Cooper's Gifts, Apparel, Home of Agawam is accepting non-perishable food and school supply donations for the Westover Galaxy Community Council to aid families, and donors earn tickets for U.S.-made prizes such as VIP tickets to the 2027 Great New England Air Show; donations are accepted until July 31.

Springfield Crossing is up for sale less than a year after opening with a $77 million investment, even as its Target store gets ready to open July 26.

Atlantic Capital Partners is refinancing the project and will consider offers that may lead to redevelopment of the former Eastfield Mall site.

Two Weeks Notice Brewing Co. announced that its West Springfield taproom will soon close due to rising costs, though the brewery will continue brewing and distributing its beverages.

The statement comes after years of hosting events and building local connections.

Amie Miarecki, president of Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts, was named a finalist for the Karl Flemke Pioneer Achievement Award for 2026.

The honor will be given at the Junior Achievement USA NEXT National Leadership Conference in Salt Lake City from July 20-23 (this recognition spotlights her leadership and impact).

Amherst has launched a major zoning study for Hampshire College campus as academic operations end this December.

The study, aimed at adding housing and supporting local business while protecting farmland, will be discussed at a virtual information session next Tuesday at 6:00 p.m.

West Springfield native Chris Torres was drafted by the Seattle Mariners in the 16th round of the 2026 MLB Draft after strong high school success and stints at Eastern Connecticut State + USC Upstate.

He now hopes to build on his local achievements while chasing his major league dream.

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.

Marina Franklin Comedy Show

8:30-10:00 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Check venue for ticket prices — Enjoy an evening with veteran comedian Marina Franklin, known for her engaging humor and impressive TV credits.

5th Annual Mentoring Matters 5K

8 PM — Old Monkey House — $40 registration — Participate in a run/walk that raises awareness for mentorship in under-resourced communities.