Good morning, Springfield.

A Springfield man (25) named Rainiely Meteo drowned nearly a week ago at Becket Quarry while swimming, and authorities said that bystanders and dive teams did not save him.

Former city landlord Springfield Gardens is fighting back against a suit from Fannie Mae by saying court documents show the company did not prove it took more than $7 million in insurance payments after apartment fires began in 2021—responding to claims it violated a loan agreement.

Local businesses told Western Mass News on Thursday that summer is their busiest season as heatwaves and new blockbuster films draw more customers—Interskate 91 and Tower Theaters have seen a jump in attendance.

Angela Roux and Robert Adam said rising temperatures and popular movies are boosting local business activity—helping venues prepare for a busy summer.

Big Y Foods reopened its Big Y Express Fresh Market at Tower Square in downtown Springfield after a two-week closure for store updates—shoppers’ feedback led to more grab-and-go options and a broader selection of quick meals, snacks, and daily essentials.

The market runs Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on weekends from noon to 5 p.m.

Springfield detectives charged 32-year-old Sakawn Straw at about 6 a.m. Thursday at a home on Revere Street in connection with a double shooting that left a 54-year-old man dead—he faces charges of murder, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, carrying a loaded firearm without a license and discharging a weapon near a building.

Today, 37-year-old Jennifer Poulin told a Hampden Superior Court judge that she is responsible for a January incident in which she, driving under the influence of drugs, crashed into nine cars + two businesses, causing over $92,000 in damage and injuring two Springfield police officers.

Criminal defense lawyers in Massachusetts stopped taking new cases after Memorial Day in protest over a $35 raise, leaving more than 2,000 defendants without representation and over 100 cases dismissed.

Lawmakers will consider a supplemental budget in October while Gov. Maura Healey urged an immediate resolution today — stressing that public safety and defendants' rights are at risk.

Soprano Karen Slack will appear in 'African Queens' at Tanglewood on July 27 to present a new production that highlights seven Afro-diasporic figures with song and spoken word — Word Nerd Emily Brewster explains how the word pretty came to be used as an adverb on The Fabulous 413.

American International College in Springfield will offer a new bachelor’s degree in health systems administration this fall to train students in managing health care systems — replacing its former health care management program.

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.

The Black Keys - No Rain, No Flowers Tour

7:00-8:30 p.m. — MassMutual Center — Ticket sales begin May 16 — Catch the Grammy-winning duo for an electrifying night of rock.

Watercolor Workshop

10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. — Springfield Museums — $110 | $94 for members — Explore watercolor techniques with guided themes of architecture, flowers, and water scenes.

Flora & Fauna: Historic Carriage House Tour & Garden Party Fundraiser

1-4 p.m. — Carriage House at The Barney — $40-$50 — Experience a blend of history, music, and nature in a vibrant garden setting with a historic tour and a silent auction.