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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

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 

Hello everyone, 

This week was another busy one in Western Mass, especially with the official start of the Big E. I don’t know about you all, but I’m ready for some fair food! 

The past week has been full of events, milestones, and preparations for the next legislative session. 

Last weekend, I had the honor of helping welcome the F‑35 to Barnes Air National Guard Base alongside the men and women of the 104th Fighter Wing, military families, our international partners from Paraguay and Kenya, and leaders from every level of government. It was a proud day for the 104th, the City of Westfield, and the Commonwealth, and I’m grateful to share a home with these new aircraft. 

On Tuesday and Wednesday, Team Velis hosted office hours at the Easthampton Council on Aging and the Holyoke Council on Aging. While visiting, we caught up with COA staff and spoke with constituents about legislation related to utility costs. Up on Beacon Hill, my policy team and I continued brainstorming ideas for potential legislation to introduce next session, prioritizing policies that uplift Western Mass. 

On Wednesday afternoon, I attended the Western Mass Veterans Treatment Court Graduation, celebrating four graduates, including the program’s 100th graduate. The work this court does is immeasurable and truly demonstrates the power of second chances. That evening, I joined the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield for their annual meeting and the induction of this year’s Wall of Fame honorees. As a past inductee, I know how meaningful it is to work with such an incredible group of people and to champion youth across Western Mass. Congratulations to all—what a genuine honor! 

On Thursday morning, I spoke at the Western Mass Economic Development Council’s Board meeting about regional priorities heading into next session, and to share updates on the Legislature’s Economic Development Bill that is currently being finalized. Later that afternoon, I traveled to Agawam to celebrate the grand opening of No Fear Fitness. If you know me, you know how important fitness is to my daily routine, and it’s great to welcome another resource that supports community health. 

I began Friday at the Big E in honor of National POW/MIA Recognition Day and the Big E’s Military Appreciation Day. The fair hosted a truly reflective ceremony honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice and reaffirming our commitment to keeping their memories alive. Shortly after, I visited the Roberta G. Doering School in Agawam for my annual Constitution Day visit, where I have always enjoyed speaking with the next generation about civics question, our democracy, and what it means to be an active citizen! 

A busy week, and I’m looking forward to the next, asTeam Velis will host office hours at the Russell Council on Aging on Tuesday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.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 

Hi Everyone,

With September officially underway, the school year beginning, and the weather turning cooler, I’m excited to dive into the fall season and all the activity it brings across our communities. 

This past week was full of events that highlighted the energy, generosity, and spirit of Western Massachusetts. As I shared last week, last weekend I had the honor of coaching Holyoke YMCA youth athletes in a friendly basketball game against the Springfield YMCA team, led by my friend Senator Adam Gomez, at the Basketball Hall of Fame. The game was intense, the crowd was electric, and most importantly, everyone had fun. I hope new friendships were formed throughout the night, and I’m already looking forward to more games throughout our community. 

Last weekend I also stopped by the Russell–Montgomery Family Fun Day. It was wonderful to see families and friends enjoying the car show, playing games, and spending time together outdoors. My thanks go to the Russell–Montgomery Police Department and all the volunteers who made such a joyful community event possible. 

On Monday, I began the week in Westfield at Baystate Noble Hospital, where leaders shared updated plans for their new emergency department, which will allow medical staff to work more efficiently and provide improved care to patients across the region. Monday also marked International Overdose Awareness Day, and I was glad to join communities throughout my district for events focused on remembering those lost to overdose and recognizing those who are still fighting for another day in recovery. I am deeply grateful to the organizations and community members who organized these powerful gatherings, and to the families and individuals who bravely shared their stories. 

Tuesday was Primary Day in Massachusetts, and I hope everyone had the opportunity to get out and vote. A heartfelt thank‑you to all of the poll workers and volunteers who make our democratic process possible! 

On Wednesday, I attended the ribbon cutting for the newly completed Farm in the Woods at Amelia Park Children’s Museum. This outdoor space gives children the chance to play, explore, and learn about agriculture in an interactive environment. I was proud to help secure funding in the FY26 budget to help make this exhibit possible. 

On Thursday, Team Velis was proud to join Peerless Precision in Westfield to celebrate their 50th anniversary—a remarkable milestone for a company that has long been an engaged and valued member of our community. Here’s to 50 more years of success! 

As a reminder, our office will be closed on Monday for Labor Day. Our next office hours will be held Tuesday at the Chicopee Council on Aging from 10:00–11:00 a.m., and Wednesday at the West Springfield Council on Aging from 11:00 a.m.–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 

August 29, 2026 – Weekly Update

Hi everyone, 

I hope you were all able to enjoy these last few days of summer before school starts up again. August has been a busy month across the district, and we’re looking forward to an equally busy fall here in Western Massachusetts. 

Monday marked the first day of school for Holyoke Public Schools, the first district in our region to return to the classroom. I hope students, educators, and staff across all our communities are off to a strong start. Team Velis also held office hours at the Holyoke Council on Aging, where we had the chance to connect directly with constituents and hear what’s on their minds. 

On Tuesday, I attended the groundbreaking for the Westfield Police Department’s new headquarters at 6 Union Street. This new facility has been a long time coming and will give the department the space and resources it needs to continue serving the Westfield community. Construction is expected to be completed in September 2027. 

Team Velis also started Tuesday morning at the Southampton Council on Aging, where Bridget joined the morning coffee group and knitting club to catch up on summer happenings and talk through some ideas for potential legislation next session. 

On Wednesday, Team Velis attended the ribbon cutting for Vital Care of Springfield in West Springfield. It was great to welcome them to the community and learn more about the infusion therapy services they will be providing to patients throughout Western Massachusetts.  

On Thursday evening, Team Velis joined OneHolyoke CDC’s Neighbor Circles, a four-part community conversation series that brings residents together to discuss concerns in the city, identify shared priorities, and talk about potential solutions. Opportunities like these are a great way for us to hear directly from residents about what’s happening in their neighborhoods and what they’d like to see addressed. 

On Friday, Behavioral Health Network hosted its annual International Overdose Awareness event in Springfield. This ceremony of remembrance gives our community an important opportunity to honor those we have lost, reduce the stigma surrounding substance use disorder, and support those who are battling addiction or working toward recovery. 

And finally, one event I’ve been especially looking forward to: the 2026 “Commonwealth Classic.” Senator Gómez and I will be coaching teams of youth from the Greater Holyoke YMCA and YMCA of Greater Springfield this Saturday at the Basketball Hall of Fame. Anyone who knows me knows how much I love basketball, and I’m especially excited to see these kids get the opportunity to take the court at one of Western Massachusetts’ most iconic institutions. I’m looking forward to a fun night and some friendly competition with Team Gómez! 

We will hold our next office hours at the Agawam Council on Aging on Monday, September 7, 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. 

Best, 

John Velis

Hi everyone,  

I hope that everyone had a great week and was able to enjoy the nice weather! August has been jam packed with different events throughout the district, and this week was no exception. 

On Monday evening I joined Easthampton residents at an Overdose Awareness Candlelight Vigil that was hosted by Learn to Cope. It was truly a beautiful gathering and a reminder to all of us of the importance of coming together and sharing the memories of those we have lost to overdoses. 

On Tuesday I had the opportunity to sit down with the Secretary of the Executive Office of Education (EOE), Stephen Zrike (the former Superintendent of Holyoke Public Schools), to discuss different public safety programs in our schools and potential standardized school emergency maps for districts across the state. We discussed how EOE could collaborate with the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) as we continue to research funding pathways to provide these protects from our students.  

I was proud to start the day on Wednesday by visiting Camp Shepard at the Westfield YMCA to announce $100,000 in state funding I secured in the FY27 state budget for the camp. This earmark funding will go towards infrastructure improvements to camp facilities and increase programming for this incredible community staple. While touring the site, Mayor McCabe, Representative Pease, and I all tried our hand at archery, and we could all use a little more target practice!   

Team Velis was also proud to celebrate National Aviation Day on Wednesday and honor our Commonwealth’s vibrant aviation industry. As Chair of the Legislature’s Aviation Caucus, I have been proud to support our aviation sector in Massachusetts, including right here in Westfield.  

Later Wednesday afternoon, I attended Sheriff Cocchi’s annual cookout, which is always a great opportunity for community leaders, organizations, and residents from across the Commonwealth for an afternoon of food, conversation, and fun! 

Thursday was another busy day in the district! I started my day off in Holyoke, attending the ribbon cutting for Florence Bank’s new location. It is so exciting to welcome a community bank that works to engage beyond the business side of things into Holyoke. Later that afternoon, I met with residents from Greater Springfield Senior Services at their new West Springfield location to discuss the Supportive Housing Program, and how state legislation can support services available to help older adults. This meeting was a great opportunity to reconnect with residents at the new GSSS site and discuss civic engagement directly with community leaders. 

This week, Team Velis hosted office hours in Holyoke. Next week we will be hosting office hours at the Russell Council on Aging on Tuesday from 11:30am to 12:30pm and again on Wednesday at the Southampton Council on Aging from 9:30am to 10:30am. If you are unable to make office hours, you can reach us by email,  john.velis@masenate.gov, by phone, (413) 572-3920, and online at senatorjohnvelis.com.    

Sincerely,  
John Velis 

Hello everyone,  

I hope you’re enjoying August and finding ways to stay cool—I know I’m already looking forward to the cooler months ahead! 

One of the nice parts about August is that I get to spend a bit more time in the district, meeting with folks and organizations from throughout our communities. I kicked off the week on Monday by calling bingo at the Agawam Senior Center. It was an absolute blast, and I loved the enthusiasm our seniors brought. Visiting our community centers is always a highlight, and it was great to join in on the fun activities they host. 

On Wednesday, I sat down with the Managing Editors of “So That Reminds Me”, a biweekly podcast produced by Reminder Publishing. We had a great conversation about our recent economic deployment bill, legislation related to cell phones in schools and social media, how I stayed connected with my team during my deployment, and more. Be sure to keep an eye out and tune in to hear our conversation and some of my updates from the Senate. 

Later Wednesday, I sat down with our partners from Western Mass Access Care to discuss support services for aging adults in our district, and potential legislation for next session. These conversations are essential as we work to ensure elders and their families have access to the resources they need. 

On Thursday, my district team and I met with OneHolyoke CDC to talk about recent community development projects and statewide initiatives, including legislation we passed this session to promote early literacy and support libraries. OneHolyoke CDC has been leading the charge on early literacy programs, and it’s been great to work alongside them on legislation this session. We also discussed the transition of the organization, as Nayroby Rosa has taken over as Executive Director after my good friend Mike Moriarty’s departure. 

This weekend marks the 80th anniversary of India’s independence, and communities across our district continue to gather to commemorate this historic day. On Friday, Chicopee residents met at City Hall for the annual Indian Independence Day Flag Raising Ceremony, and this weekend the Gujarati Association of Western Massachusetts and the Indian Association of Greater Springfield will host their Independence Day celebration. 

If you’re looking for something else fun to do with your family this weekend, Southampton is hosting its annual town picnic, Celebrate Southampton. Attractions include raffles, balloon art, face painting, the Citizen of the Year presentation, and more. Stop by Conant Park and enjoy the summer weather with friends, family, and neighbors! 

This week, Team Velis hosted office hours in West Springfield. Next week, we will hold office hours at the Holyoke Council on Aging on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.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