Good morning, Springfield.

The YWCA held a room dedication ceremony and reception to honor former employee Rosalind Jackson—who retired earlier this year after six years working to support women and children in the domestic violence shelter.

Shelter staff, past and present, and residents attended the event as a plaque was unveiled to mark her lasting contributions.

Springfield will celebrate National Night Out Tuesday evening— a nationwide initiative that works to bridge the gap between police and residents.

A player won a $21,734.59 jackpot on Monday at MGM Springfield after betting $50 on the slots game Piggy Bankin (this win comes amid several large payouts made by the casino in recent months).

Police responded to a Worthington Street incident on July 26 and detained four individuals including a 17-year-old minor while recovering four illegal guns — one of which was a high-capacity ghost gun — and 10 bags of heroin.

Governor Maura Healey signed a bill that raises bar advocates' pay by $10 an hour immediately + another $10 an hour next year to help end a work stoppage affecting criminal defense cases.

More than 100 cases were dismissed recently because advocates were not available, and it is unclear if the pay increase will bring them back.

Springfield City Councilor Maria Perez filed a $1 million lawsuit against former colleagues at New North Citizens’ Council after her firing on July 21—officials said her computer use for political reasons triggered her termination—and her attorneys argue the action was a calculated attack on her decades-long service. Perez, who served over 40 years at the agency on Main Street, is represented by Jeff Morneau and John Conner.

Railroad company CSX will fund safety upgrades at the Memorial Avenue rail crossing in West Springfield—upgrades include overhead LED lights, two stop lights, and new fencing—with construction beginning this fall and finishing by the end of 2026.

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.

Brimfield Outdoor Antiques Show

All Day — Brimfield Town Hall Annex — Entry fee varies — Explore the largest antique and collectibles market in the U.S. with thousands of dealers.

Latino Arts Festival 2025

5-8 p.m. — Springfield Museums — Free entry — Celebrate the vibrant arts and cultures of Latin America with music, exhibitions, and hands-on activities.

Crochet Club Drop-In

11:00 AM – 12:30 PM — Make-It Springfield — Free, Donation, or Supporter options — Connect with fellow crafters in a welcoming crochet community.