Good morning, Springfield.

On Tuesday, local donations of nearly $10,000 from the Stuff the Bus campaign helped provide backpacks and supplies for about 1,000 students in need.

United Way of Pioneer Valley said the support (including hundreds of backpacks) gives students the tools to begin school with pride.

Keiter, a local construction firm in West Springfield, was named on the Boston Globe's list of fastest growing companies and hired a new executive vice president to boost its growth.

The firm will expand its region-wide education, housing and commercial projects beyond its current 60-mile service area.

Grammy Award-winning Christone 'Kingfish' Ingram will return to 52 Sumner on Sunday at 7 p.m. for a blues concert with fresh new music, joined by Grammy-winning producer Tom Hambridge (five-time winner) as ticket prices range from $50 to $125.

Local educator Mary Cieplik said Tuesday that regular school attendance is key for students to keep pace with classwork and homework as families settle into back-to-school routines + build a strong foundation for learning.

Educators in the Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership now have a direct role in shaping school goals, curriculum, and daily operations through teacher leadership teams (TLTs) at 15 local schools.

Visitors from various regions are coming to learn about this innovative model that has improved teacher retention and classroom outcomes.

During the weekend of Aug.

1-2, BrightBridge Credit Union completed a core systems conversion with the former Arrha Credit Union — merging services for its 117,000 members at 23 branches and providing full access to expanded digital banking products.

Candidates Ed Markey and Seth Moulton clashed — during a sharp Monday debate in Springfield — over personal finances, defense policies and immigration plans ahead of the Sept.

1 primary.

Xiomara Albán DeLobato joined the restructured Cannabis Control Commission to update regulations that support local cannabis businesses and social justice+ The commission works to keep the industry competitive amid a looming repeal vote, ensuring public safety and economic growth.

A Springfield woman won an energy-efficient home through a lottery held by Way Finders’ City of Homes program on Tuesday — the renovated property on Highland Street offers long-term savings with efficient systems, and she plans a housewarming with her daughter soon.

The Red Sox traded Marcelo Mayer to the Giants for lefty reliever Erik Miller and prospect Carlos Gutierrez on Monday.

Mayer, who missed time with a stress reaction, saw limited playing time while Miller has posted strong numbers this season.

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.