Good morning, Springfield.

Rocky's Ace Hardware donated paint and materials for a new mural in downtown Springfield named Echoes of Heritage.

The mural, completed over the weekend, was a collaborative effort among students, families, and community sponsors — honoring the contributions of Springfield's Latino community.

During Western Mass News’ Day of Giving, reporters visited a Salvation Army canteen truck in Springfield that feeds up to 1,500 people a day during disasters—Bob Myers, the Eastern Territory’s Executive Director, said the unit is vital for serving balanced meals and hope in times of crisis. The mobile feeding unit operates with a small crew and prepares meals on-site to meet the urgent needs of affected communities.

Arrha Credit Union and BrightBridge Credit Union announced their intent to merge in Springfield.

BrightBridge will continue as the surviving credit union and will expand its services to serve 125,000 members over 23 branches—pending regulatory and member approval.

On Monday, officers responded to a fight on Honey Pot Road in Hadley where one man was stabbed and the victim sustained minor injuries & Edward Kolosewicz was arrested on charges including assault with a dangerous weapon.

Bob Bolduc has transformed the dormant CityStage into the Hope Center for the Arts, where young people can explore dance, theater, music and other creative classes.

The Hope for Youth & Families foundation has invested over $15 million to create a state-of-the-art performance and learning center that will benefit Springfield’s youth – a significant boost to the local arts scene.

Jimmy Mazz — a popular vocalist from Ludlow — will perform two shows at Majestic Theater in West Springfield on July 19.

The 2 p.m. matinee will feature hits from the 1950s while the 7:30 p.m. show will showcase 1960s classics as the singer marks 20 years as a full-time entertainer.

Actor, environmentalist and activist Ed Begley Jr. signed copies of his memoir for community members at The Wellington (an assisted living facility) in Springfield Monday night, saying writing his personal story brought him joy.

A study found that in 2024 the Eastern States Exposition generated $235 million in gross regional product for Hampden County plus a record $1.167 billion across New York and New England, creating over 8,000 jobs and yielding $19 million in tax revenue for Massachusetts.

Eastern States Exposition President Gene Cassidy said the fair also boosted personal income by $439 million and helped fund community projects through its nonprofit trust.

On Tuesday, Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll and state officials met in Boston for a hearing on Governor Healey’s Mass Ready Act, a bill that would invest nearly $3 billion to upgrade roads, dams, bridges and culverts to protect communities from extreme weather.

The bill would also create a Resilient Revolving Fund for projects — an effort supported by local groups like the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission and the Franklin Regional Council of Governments.

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.

Concerts in the Park Series

6:30-8 p.m. — Forest Park Amphitheater — Free entry — Enjoy a summer evening of live music amidst the beautiful scenery of Forest Park.

ROAR! Comedy: A Double Headlining Show

8 PM — MGM Springfield — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of laughter with headliners Chris Tabb and Janet McNamara.

Basketball Camp: Playmaker College

July 29th - August 2nd — Springfield College — Registration required — Enhance basketball skills and confidence through specialized training and leadership development.

Taste of the Caribbean & Jerk Festival

1-9 p.m. — Mortensen Riverfront Plaza — Free entry — Immerse yourself in island vibes with carnival fun, delicious Caribbean cuisine, and live music for the whole family.

Annie the Musical

1:30-4 p.m. — Springfield Performing Arts Ventures, Inc. — Ticket prices vary — Experience the heartwarming tale of little Annie as she navigates the challenges of the 1930s in New York City.

East Coast Gem, Mineral, & Fossil Show

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Eastern States Exposition — Cost varies — Explore a treasure trove of gems, minerals, and fossils at this east coast showcase.

African Community Festival

5-9 p.m. — Marshall Roy Park — Free entry — Celebrate African culture with music, food, and art in Springfield.

Aquanett Live Concert

6:30-8 p.m. — Forest Park Amphitheater — Free entry — Experience the electrifying 80's Rock n Metal show by Aquanett in a beautiful outdoor setting.