Good morning, Springfield.

On Tuesday, summer camp students spent the day learning about and celebrating local first responders + who protect the community.

West Springfield will launch its inaugural Food Truck Friday series on Aug.

8 at Town Common located at 125 Park St from 4 to 9 p.m., organized by Mayor Will Reichelt’s office + the event will host three or four local food trucks and craft vendors and may return next year if successful.

Joshua Mizula-Samson, 17, a Hatfield teen studying automotive technology at Smith Vocational School, died when his car rolled over and struck a fire hydrant on Greenfield Road in Deerfield on Sunday morning—authorities said a passenger was taken to Baystate Medical Center in Springfield with non-life-threatening injuries as police and state troopers investigate the crash.

Authorities held an arraignment for the suspect accused of a shooting at Holyoke Mall late last week — investigators are now gathering more evidence to move the case forward.

City leaders raised concerns Tuesday over fentanyl and drug use in Springfield parks after cleanup crews repeatedly removed needles, drug paraphernalia and bottlecaps from Johnny Appleseed Park and they plan to propose new laws to address the problem.

United Way of Pioneer Valley is collecting backpacks and school supplies at several sites—including Western Mass News studios—to help needy kindergarten through grade 12 students prepare for school, with donations accepted until August 6.

The drive expects to fill hundreds of backpacks so that even newly identified students have the materials they need.

MassDOT and Applegreen announced a $750 million plan today to upgrade 18 highway service plazas statewide with construction set to start early next year and create 750 new jobs over three years.

The companies will offer current workers job opportunities and partner with Chicopee’s Rachael’s — the sandwich provider for the plazas — while more details will be released soon.

Over 200 senior men will compete in the Massachusetts Senior Games softball tournament at Blunt Park Aug.

8-10 as sixteen teams from across the state play free games to boost local spirit. Mayor Domenic Sarno will throw a ceremonial first pitch on Friday at 1:30 p.m. and on Sunday at 9 a.m.—with food trucks and family activities set to welcome visitors.

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.