Category: Uncategorized

Posted on

October 31, 2026 — Weekly Update

Hi everyone, 

Happy Halloween! I hope everyone has a great day and stays safe while trick-or-treating. I’ll be out with my son, Carson, who has been counting down the days and is thrilled to finally wear his costume. As for me, I’m mostly looking forward to sneaking some of his candy when we get home! 

The week started off on a great note with a visit to the Holyoke Fire Department for a workout and a ride-along. I was proud to donate a Rogue Echo Bike to the department to support the health and wellness of the firefighters who do so much to keep our communities safe. It was also a valuable opportunity to spend time with the men and women of the department, learn more about their day-to-day responsibilities, and accompany them on several calls throughout Holyoke to see firsthand the incredible work they do serving our community. 

On Wednesday, I had the pleasure of visiting Peerless Precision, Inc. in Westfield. I was proud to nominate the company for the Massachusetts Manufacturing Caucus’s “Manufacturer of the Year” Award earlier this year, and during my visit I had the opportunity to present the team with a Senate citation recognizing this well-deserved honor. Congratulations to everyone at Peerless Precision on this outstanding achievement!  

Out in Boston this week, Team Velis toured the Samaritans office, as part of our work with the Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use, and Recovery. It was a valuable chance to learn more about the organization’s life-saving work in suicide prevention, crisis support, and mental health advocacy. We appreciated hearing from their team about the services they provide throughout Massachusetts and the difference they continue to make for individuals, families, and communities facing difficult challenges.  

Thursday was an especially meaningful day for Holyoke and veterans throughout our region as we officially celebrated the ribbon-cutting of the new Holyoke Veterans Home alongside residents, families, staff, and so many incredible advocates. Many will recall that one of the first pieces of legislation I worked on upon joining the Senate was the State Legislature’s bond bill that first funded the reconstruction and led to so many other steps along the way. After years of advocacy, planning, and hard work, it was incredibly rewarding to see this state-of-the-art facility officially open its doors. Most importantly, this milestone and the new facility stands as a lasting commitment to ensuring that the veterans who have served our country receive the care, dignity, and respect they deserve. 

This week, Team Velis hosted office hours in Westfield, Russell and Southampton. Next week, we will hold office hours at the Agawam Council on Aging on Monday from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. If you’re unable to attend, you can always reach us by email at john.velis@masenate.gov, by phone at (413) 572-3920, or online at senatorjohnvelis.com. 

Sincerely,  

John Velis 

Posted on

Healey pledges to expand WMass veterans cemetery

(Masslive) Agawam — In a speech on Thursday, Gov. Maura T. Healey pledged that if she is re-elected next week, she will begin the process of expanding Western Massachusetts’ only veterans cemetery — a place that gives “loved ones a place to come together to reflect and remember.”

Despite hosting more than 13,000 interments in the past 20 years, the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery at Agawam is not running out of space, workers said. The governor said she wants to begin the expansion process now, while neighboring properties are still available.

“We need to start planning before space becomes a problem,” Healey said. “Our veterans answered the call. We owe it to them, and their families, to make sure we’re prepared.”

State veterans cemeteries provide burial plots at no cost for veterans and their spouses, on a property dedicated to honoring military service. This is a basic government function, said state Sen. John C. Velis, D-Westfield.

“If you can’t give a level of dignity or care, and at the end of the day, a resting place, to the less than 1% that serves, what are we doing here?” asked Velis, who is himself an Army veteran.

Continue reading here.

Posted on

October 24, 2026 – Weekly Update

Hi everyone, 

With the end of October right around the corner, I hope everyone has been enjoying the fall weather and finding time to spend with family and friends. I look forward to seeing many of you at Stanley Park today for my office’s free Pumpkin Giveaway, which I am pleased be organizing for the first time this fall season! 

With the fall comes the school year, and more school projects! Westfield High School student Giovanni Santaniello recently presented his science fair research on using mushrooms to help break down plastics at the Massachusetts Science & Engineering Fair’s State House Day. It’s exciting to see students across our district using their creativity and curiosity to tackle real-world challenges and help build a brighter future! Thanks for coming to the State House Giovanni! 

It was also a busy week in the district, including on Wednesday when I had the pleasure of joining Freedom Credit Union for its Lunch & Learn. It was great to connect with local business leaders from Western Massachusetts and Northern Connecticut and hear more about the work happening throughout our region. 

Thursday brought me back to Westfield, where I joined Superintendent Stefan Czaporowski for his podcast. We discussed local school funding, cellphones in schools, student well-being, and several other important topics affecting our students and families. If you haven’t had a chance to listen, I encourage you to check it out! Afterwards, I joined the Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce for its Legislative Luncheon. I always appreciate the opportunity to connect with our local business community and hear what’s on the minds of those who help keep our region moving forward. 

Continuing with the fall festivities, my office was pleased to participate in the City of Chicopee’s SPOOKtacular event on Thursday evening. It was great to hand out candy, connect with families, and see all the creative costumes. Thanks to everyone who came out and helped make it such a fun night! 

On Friday, I was honored to attend the ribbon cutting for Wayfinders’ Essex Village in Holyoke. The opening of 41 affordable housing units in the Churchill neighborhood is an important step in expanding housing opportunities for local residents. It was great to celebrate this milestone and see this project come to life. 

In addition to my office’s event at Stanley Park today, this weekend brings two important awareness events in our community with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Out of the Darkness Walk in Agawam, and the Alzheimer’s Association’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Holyoke. I am honored to participate and speak at both events this weekend to help raise awareness and am grateful to all who continue to work on these important causes.

This week, Team Velis hosted office hours in Easthampton & Holyoke. Next week, we’ll be at the Westfield Council on Aging on Monday from 12:30–1:30 p.m., the Russell Council on Aging on Tuesday from 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. and Southampton Council on Aging Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. If you’re unable to attend, please feel free to reach out by email at john.velis@masenate.gov, by phone at (413) 572-3920, or online at senatorjohnvelis.com. 

Sincerely, 

John Velis 

Posted on

Chair of Aviation Caucus, Sen. Velis Raises Grave Concerns Over Amazon’s Emerging Drone Technology 

(10/23/2026 – Boston) State Senator John C. Velis, Senate Chair of the Massachusetts Legislature’s Aviation Caucus, is demanding clear answers, robust state oversight, and enforceable public safety protections as Amazon advances plans for a proposed drone delivery site in Westborough, calling for public safety concerns to be addressed before the project moves forward. 

“Emerging technologies like drone delivery have the potential to create new opportunities and make our lives more convenient, but innovation cannot come at the expense of public safety or ignore very real community concerns,” said Senator Velis. “As these technologies develop, we need to make sure they are subject to appropriate oversight, potential risks are thoroughly evaluated, and that residents have a meaningful opportunity to be heard and engage on any operational concerns.”  

Velis echoed sentiment sent in a recent letter from the MassDOT Aeronautics Division to Amazon which outlined several concerns raised by the community, including low-altitude flights over private property, the potential for harm to people and property on the ground, and the need to coordinate operations with law enforcement, public safety officials, and other drone operators The MassDOT letter also directed that Amazon cannot begin operating their proposed drone delivery site in Westborough until they complete the required state review, and that a public hearing on the proposed operations is expected in order to provide an opportunity for further discussion and public input. 

Velis emphasized the need for close oversight as drone technology continues to evolve, pointing to both global conflicts and local safety concerns. “One only has to look at the war between Russia and Ukraine to understand the impact of drone usage,” said Velis. “Drones are a concern worldwide, and even in my home district of Westfield, drones have been reported in the airspace around Barnes Regional Airport. While the FAA currently oversees drone operations, states need to take action to ensure public safety.” Velis also drew on his own experience with drones during his recent deployment to the southwestern U.S. border, where he witnessed firsthand the challenges and impacts of their use.  

Velis noted that he will continue to monitor MassDOT’s review of the proposed Westborough site and follow developments leading up to the anticipated public hearing. In his role as Chair of the Legislature’s Aviation Caucus, Velis will work to ensure that questions surrounding public safety, private property, environmental impacts, and coordination with local officials receive appropriate consideration as the state evaluates the proposal. 

### 

Posted on

Magic for Maddie 5K and Carnival Draws 2,000 attendees, Velis Announces $20,000 in State Funding to Support Mission 

(10/17/2026 – Holyoke) Senator John C. Velis attended the Magic for Maddie 5K and Carnival on Saturday, an annual event that draws more than 2,000 attendees and honors children who have survived cancer, are currently fighting the disease, or have passed away. During the ceremony, Senator Velis also presented $20,000 in state funding to support the Magic for Maddie Foundation and its mission of assisting families facing childhood cancer diagnoses. 

“No family should have to worry about paying their bills while their child is fighting cancer,” shared Senator Velis. “This funding will help Magic for Maddie continue providing critical support to families who need it most while contributing to the fight against pediatric cancer. I am grateful to Maddie’s family for turning an unimaginable loss into meaningful action and making a difference in our community.” 

Magic for Maddie was established in memory of Maddie Schmidt, who passed away at age eight from an aggressive form of pediatric brain cancer. The nonprofit supports families facing the emotional and financial challenges of childhood cancer while funding research to advance the fight against the disease. 

In 2025 alone, Magic for Maddie donated more than $80,000 to 32 Western Massachusetts families to help cover essential expenses, including housing, groceries, utilities, transportation to treatment, and medical costs. In fewer than five years, the foundation has raised nearly $1.8 million to support its mission. 

“We are grateful to Senator Velis for his support and for recognizing the meaningful work Magic for Maddie is doing to make a difference in our communities,” said Nora Schmidt, Maddie’s mother. “Through Magic for Maddie, we are committed to keeping Maddie’s sparkle and memory alive by supporting local families whose children are fighting cancer. Our goal is to alleviate the financial burden so families can focus on their child’s health. Maddie was a true hero, and we miss her every single day. We know she would be proud of the work we are doing in her honor.” 

The $20,000 in state funding will help Magic for Maddie continue providing financial assistance to local families navigating childhood cancer diagnoses and expand its impact throughout Western Massachusetts. 

The state funding was included secured by Senator Velis in the recent FY’27 state budget that was passed by the Senate and House, and signed into law in July. 

For more information, visit the Magic for Maddie Foundation website. 

Posted on

October 17th, 2026 – Weekly Update

Hi everyone, 

I can’t believe we’re already halfway through October! I hope everyone has been enjoying the crisp fall weather and getting the chance to take in the beautiful foliage throughout our communities. We’re fortunate to live in such a wonderful part of the state to experience the fall season. 

It’s been a busy week in the District and at the State House, including some stops in Chicopee on Tuesday. The day started with my team and I holding office hours at the Chicopee Council on Aging and assisting residents with different issues. Afterwards, I joined many of my legislative colleagues to visit the Western Massachusetts Women’s Correctional Facility in Chicopee to learn more about the facility and its work. 

On Wednesday, I headed to the State House for the Trooper George L. Hanna Memorial Awards ceremony, which recognizes law enforcement officers who have demonstrated extraordinary courage and bravery in the line of duty. Officer Negron of the Holyoke Police Department was among those honored for his tremendous courage. It was great to connect with Officer Negron, his family, and fellow members of the Holyoke Police Department. Congratulations to all of this year’s honorees, and thank you for your service and dedication to keeping our communities safe. 

Thursday, my team and I attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Westfield State University’s new Bioinformatics Laboratory. It was exciting to learn more about the opportunities this new facility will create for students and faculty, as well as its potential to support workforce development throughout our region. Investments in education and innovation like these are important to the future of Western Mass. 

On Friday, I had the pleasure of speaking with students at the UMass Amherst Emerging Leaders for the Common Good event at the Springfield Center. I always appreciate the opportunity to share my journey in public service, hear from students, and connect with the next generation of leaders in our communities.  

After a busy week, this weekend brings an event that holds a special place in the hearts of so many in our community: the Magic for Maddie 5K Walk & Carnival. At the ceremony I was honored to present $20,000 in state funding that my office helped secure for the Magic for Maddie Foundation and its important mission of supporting families facing childhood cancer. It is inspiring to see so many people come together for such a meaningful cause, and a big thank you everyone who continues to support the foundation and the families it serves. I’m grateful to play a part in supporting this incredible work right here in our community. 

This week, Team Velis hosted office hours in Chicopee and West Springfield. Next week, we’ll be at the Easthampton Council on Aging on Tuesday from 10:30–11:30 a.m. and the Holyoke Council on Aging on Wednesday from 10:00–11:00 a.m. If you’re unable to attend, please feel free to reach out by email at john.velis@masenate.gov, by phone at (413) 572-3920, or online at senatorjohnvelis.com. 

Sincerely, 

John Velis 

Posted on

October 10th, 2026 – Weekly Update

Photo of Senator Velis and others standing in front of the new Club Cruiser van at the Chicopee Boys & Girls Club

Hi everyone,

I hope you all had a great week! Today, on World Mental Health Day, we are reminded that mental health is just as important as physical health, and it is critically important that we all are able to say “I need help.” Let’s continue pushing back against stigma and expanding access to behavioral health care for every person who needs it!

This week, Team Velis is excited to welcome our new Communications Director, Nina Prenosil. Nina is a fantastic addition to the team, and I’m thrilled to have another Westfield native on Beacon Hill advocating for Western Mass and engaging with residents and organizations throughout our communities.

On Monday, I met with Renewal Initiatives to discuss developments in their Holistic Agriculture Academy, a two‑year regenerative agriculture program for veterans and their communities. It was a great opportunity to connect with veterans who have been involved in this program dedicated to veteran transition and regenerative agriculture and discuss potential engagement opportunities on a state level.

Tuesday began at UMass Amherst’s Fall Legislative Breakfast in Springfield, where I connected with University Administrators and legislative colleagues about our rapidly growing student population in Western Mass. That afternoon, I joined the 104th Fighter Wing at Barnes to celebrate Colonel David “Moon” Halasi‑Kun’s promotion to Brigadier General, and later that evening, I attended the Holyoke Police Department’s annual awards ceremony. Congratulations to all who received promotions and honors, your service and dedication make our communities stronger!

On Wednesday, Mark and I joined the Easthampton Coalition for Veteran Wellness for their monthly Veterans Lunch, an important space for veterans to connect and support one another. I was grateful to sponsor this month’s lunch and for the opportunity to chat with veterans throughout our community.

Wednesday afternoon I made my way over to the Chicopee Boy and Girls Club for the unveiling of their new Club Cruiser. This new van will bring activities to other parts of the city throughout the year and will make its debut later this month.

As some of you may recall, last week I joined the Russell Selectboard for a meeting about town needs and departmental work. This week I was glad to continue that tour with the Montgomery Select Board on Thursday evening, where we discussed supplemental budget funding and transportation needs for our hill towns.

I wrapped up the week on Friday with Providence Ministries for a tour of their facility, and a roundtable to discuss the essential work of Kate’s Kitchen, Margaret’s Pantry, and St. Jude’s Clothing Center, as well as exploring ways to build a sustainable and dignified path forward through community partnership.

This week, Team Velis hosted office hours in Agawam. Next week, we’ll be at the Chicopee Council on Aging on Tuesday from 10:00–11:00am, and at the West Springfield Council on Aging on Wednesday from 11:00am–12:00pm. If you’re unable to attend, please feel free to reach out by email at john.velis@masenate.gov, by phone at (413) 572‑3920, or online at senatorjohnvelis.com.

Sincerely,
John Velis

Posted on

Velis Calls for State Action on Disturbing New Veteran Suicide Numbers

(10/09/2026 -Westfield) Following the release of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ new report last week on veteran suicide, Senator John Velis (D-Westfield) today called for increased efforts to connect veterans with VA health care and mental health services. The report found that 6,488 veterans died by suicide in 2024, an average of nearly 18 veterans every day, and 62% were not receiving VA health care in the year they died or the year prior. The report also found that the suicide rate among veterans enrolled in VA health care decreased by 4.8% from 2023 to 2024, while the rate among veterans not enrolled in VA care increased by 3.7%.

“We have known for years that we need to do more to address veteran suicide, but these numbers make one thing very clear: we cannot reach veterans if they are not connected to care,” said Senator Velis, who is also the Senate Chairman of the Legislature’s Joint Committee on Veterans & Federal Affairs. “If nearly two-thirds of veterans who died by suicide were not receiving VA health care, then we need to be asking ourselves what more we can do to make sure every veteran knows what resources are available to them and how to access them. 

The report released by the VA highlights the importance of connecting veterans with care, specifically noting that suicide rates decreased among veterans enrolled in VA health care while increasing among veterans who were not enrolled. 

“We cannot wait for a veteran to be in crisis before we start asking whether they are connected to the care they have earned,” said Velis, who is also a U.S. Army veteran himself. “We have Veterans Service Officers in communities across this Commonwealth who are already working every day to connect veterans with benefits and resources. We should be doing everything we can to make sure veterans know whether they qualify for VA health care and have a clear path to getting enrolled.”

In response to the VA’s report, Velis called attention to the recent approach Massachusetts took in the SPEED Act to reach service-members exposed to burn pits and other toxic hazards, as a remedy for increasing enrollment in VA healthcare. The SPEED Act, filed by Velis and enacted in 2022, directed state agencies to proactively reach service-members with information about the health impacts of toxic exposures and available resources. Velis said he plans to examine whether a similar approach can be used to proactively connect veterans with mental health care, identify veterans who may not be connected to the VA system, and ensure they have clear information about the services available to them. Velis noted he plans to work with veterans’ organizations, Veterans Service Officers, state agencies and mental health providers to identify potential legislative solutions ahead of the next session.

Any veteran experiencing a mental health crisis can call 988 and press 1 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line, or text 838255.

Posted on

October 3rd, 2026 – Weekly Update

Hi Everyone,

I can’t believe we’re already in October! I hope you all stayed safe and dry through the recent weather, though a little rain never stops my team and me from getting out into the community.

On Monday, I joined Chicopee in welcoming the Commissioner of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, Pedro Martinez, to the district. During his visit, Commissioner Martinez met with Chicopee Superintendent Ware and toured Edward Bellamy Middle School and Chicopee Comprehensive High School, connecting with staff, faculty, and students to discuss how we can continue supporting our growing student population.

Team Velis began Tuesday by meeting with the Western Mass Task Force for Housing, where we discussed homelessness resources, homebuyer assistance programs, and housing legislation with local providers. The work this task force does is vital to supporting residents across our region and ensuring strong collaboration between providers, shelters, and government partners.

On Tuesday evening, I was proud to join the Easthampton Fire Department as they celebrated the swearing-in of five new Lieutenants. Serving as a first responder is a responsibility of the highest degree, and our entire community is grateful for their commitment to public service.

On Wednesday, I had the opportunity to sit down with the Russell Selectboard and hear from members and town department heads about issues important to Russell. City or town, it is always important for me to stay engaged with local elected officials in my district, and I look forward to continuing my tour with a similar roundtable in Montgomery next week.

As September came to a close on Wednesday, we recognized International Recovery Day, the day is a reminder that recovery is possible and that even in challenging moments, there are solutions we can work toward together. I am immensely proud of all of the people I’ve met throughout my career who have shared their stories of recovery, and for the individuals throughout our region who provide support to those struggling.

Thursday was an exciting day in Westfield for Team Velis. We started at the Westfield COA’s annual Senior Options Fair, where government representatives, nonprofits, first responders, and community providers come together to connect with seniors and discuss resources that support our aging adult population. It’s always a wonderful opportunity to catch up with neighbors and hear directly from our seniors. Later that day, my family and I visited the Big E for Westfield Day and even joined the Trolley Parade. There’s nothing better than seeing my little man celebrate his hometown,and before long, he’ll be shooting hoops at the fair games just like his dad.

On Friday, Team Velis closed out the week at Alianza’s annual Legislative Luncheon in Holyoke. I’m continually inspired by the impact that our small community organizations have, and it was especially meaningful to hear directly from individuals who have been supported by Alianza’s.

This week, Team Velis hosted office hours in both Westfield and Southampton. Next week, we will hold office hours at the Agawam Council on Aging on Monday from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. If you’re unable to attend, you can always reach us by email at john.velis@masenate.gov, by phone at (413) 572-3920, or online at senatorjohnvelis.com.

Sincerely,

John Velis

Posted on

September 26, 2026 – Weekly Update

Hi everyone, 

I hope you all had a great week and continue to enjoy all the activities over at the Eastern States Exposition. It was another busy and exciting week across the district and on Beacon Hill, and I’m glad to share some updates with you. 

In Holyoke on Monday, I met with the St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee to discuss the release of a new economic impact report that highlights the tourism and financial benefits that March’s festivities bring to Western Mass. The parade brings together regional committees and local businesses, and this report will provide valuable insight into how these celebrations support the entire Pioneer Valley. 

Tuesday was a full day for Team Velis, both in the district and at the State House. We began by hosting office hours at the Russell Council on Aging, where we caught up with constituents and COA staff. Mark also had the opportunity to meet with residents, COA staff, and the new Russell Town Administrator. Later at the State House, our team met with DOT to discuss the replacement of the North End Bridge between Springfield and West Springfield. DOT will hold a public hearing on the project’s design on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at the Basketball Hall of Fame, and I encourage you all to attend and learn more. 

That afternoon, I had the honor of speaking at the first-ever Boys & Girls Club Youth Summit at the State House. Our clubs play a vital role in supporting students and families, especially when it comes to the physical and mental wellbeing of our youth. It was a privilege to serve as the keynote speaker and welcome club members from across the state, including the West Springfield Boys & Girls Club, who visited with me and Representative Finn throughout the day. 

Wednesday brought exciting news in Chicopee, where I was proud to present $50,000 in state funding to the Chicopee American Legion, Western Massachusetts Veteran Service Officer Association (WMVSOA, and Veteran Outreach into Community Engagement (VOICE) to strengthen services for our veterans. Preserving spaces like our Legions reflects how we honor those who served, and this investment supports both the community and the wellbeing of our veterans. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this important announcement. 

To round out the week, I attended the Westfield Chamber’s September Breakfast at the 104th Fighter Wing. After welcoming the new F‑35 fleet earlier this month, it was great to see the aircraft in action once again and chat with business members throughout our community. 

This week, Team Velis hosted office hours in Russell. Next week, we’ll be at the Westfield Council on Aging on Monday from 12:30–1:30 p.m., and at the Southampton Council on Aging on Wednesday from 9:30–10:30 a.m. If you’re unable to attend, you can always reach me by email at john.velis@masenate.gov, by phone at (413) 572‑3920, or online at senatorjohnvelis.com. 

Sincerely,  

John Velis 

Translate »