Good morning, Springfield.

Local cousins from Springfield spent 28 days in five countries tracing African heritage and reclaiming overlooked history.

They visited former slave ports, forts, and a historic island to learn about the transatlantic slave trade — a journey that inspires others to explore their roots.

On Friday, a Massachusetts lottery player won $100,000 on a $1 ticket purchased at an Energy North gas station (in Westford).

Across the state, 536 prizes of $600 or more were claimed on Thursday, including 21 in Springfield.

4-H youth demonstrated skills in animal care, crafts, and robotics at the annual fair held Saturday at the Mallary Complex in West Springfield.

The family-friendly event featured livestock showmanship and a fun run (Rick Sullivan Memorial Fun Run), drawing young participants from four counties.

Former Russell fire chief Niles LaValley died suddenly earlier this week; he served in Russell, Westfield and Dalton and leaves behind a wife and young son with a family fundraiser underway.

Massachusetts is sending a 10-person firefighting crew to Minnesota to battle wildfires that have brought smoky skies to Springfield.

The team is expected to depart this weekend and spend 14 days (under a mutual aid agreement) building fire breaks and containing blazes.

Patriots cornerback Marcus Jones said he did not offer advice to teammate Christian Gonzalez over contract negotiations (he signed a three-year, $36 million extension last season), while coach Mike Vrabel expressed confidence as talks for Gonzalez’s extension continued.

Interim manager Chad Tracy said Ranger Suarez may start Sunday if he recovers from a groin strain and sickness, with Tolle ready if needed and Houck throwing in Fort Myers; Connelly Early is easing back with light sessions (two-inning plans next).

On Friday, the Red Sox beat the Blue Jays 6-4 at Fenway Park as Seigler recorded his first four-hit game and Chapman's save passed a historic mark, while Gonzalez's pinch-hit double brought the go-ahead run, helping Boston secure its 21st win in 24 games.

At Saturday’s practice, Christian Gonzalez took part in drills after the Patriots reportedly offered him the largest contract in team history, a deal that would make him the NFL’s highest paid cornerback if finalized.

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.