Happy Holidays, everyone.
I can hardly believe that 2023 begins tomorrow. I hope all of you have been able to take some time and relax and enjoy this holiday season.
We’re getting right back into the swing of things next week. Wednesday marks the swearing-in of the new legislature and the beginning of the 193rd Massachusetts General Court. I’m very much looking forward to getting back to the good work of legislating.
Sunday marked the official beginning of Kwanzaa. I’d like to wish a happy one to all those in the African-American community who celebrate. Our office was honored to have been asked to attend Mayor Vieau’s proclamation honoring African heritage and culture at Chicopee City Hall on Thursday.
Wednesday morning, I was asked to speak on Rock on Westfield, a local cable access show on WCPC that also airs as a radio show on WSKB. I was also joined by Mayor McCabe, Rep. Pease, and Rep. Finn, and together we spoke about all that we accomplished in the previous legislative session and all that we hope to accomplish in the upcoming one. Thank you to the host, Harry Rock, for having us.
In response to both the colder weather finally settling in and an increase in heating costs being felt across the board, the federal government recently announced a $159 million increase in funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This reflects a nearly 24% increase from funding in the previous fiscal year. Last year, only one in five eligible households accessed the available funds. If you think you may be eligible and are worried about your heating bills this year, I encourage you to apply. You can do so at www.mass.gov/home-energy-assistance-programs or can reach to my office for assistance.
My team held office hours this week on Tuesday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Russell Council on Aging. Next week, due to the holiday, my office moved our Agawam office hours to Jan. 9 from 11 a.m. to noon. Please feel free to stop by with any questions, comments, concerns, or just to say hello!
I can always be reached at my email, john.velis@masenate.gov, or by phone, 413-572-3920, and you can find me online at senatorjohnvelis.com, where you can also sign up for my newsletter.
Wishing everyone a safe and happy New Year,
John Velis