Hello Everyone,
This week marks the official start of summer with the passage of the solstice. I hope everyone has been able to enjoy the long days despite all the rain we’ve had this week. We’ve had a very productive week here in the legislature. I certainly have and want to share some exciting news from across the district this week.
This past Monday was Juneteenth, marking the day that the news of abolition and the end of the Civil War reached every corner of our country. The day when the last slaves learned of their freedom was a pivotal moment in our country’s struggle for equality. I hope everyone was able to observe the holiday and reflect on the significance it has played in American history.
Last Saturday I attended a celebration congratulating Karen Salvini on 39 years of service as the clerk to City of Westfield. It was my honor attending and celebrating her hard work and dedication to the city. Congratulations on retirement, Karen!
On Wednesday, I spoke in Springfield during the Western Mass Addiction Policy Forum hosted by Massachusetts Organization for Addiction Recovery at the UMass Center in Springfield. I am glad we were able to talk about funding and support for those on the frontlines of substance use disorders. There is much policy and legislative work to be done locally and in the state house. It was moving to hear the stories of the many people who attended, and I am thankful to have been asked to speak.
The Williston Library in Easthampton was able to secure $50,000 in funds from the American Recovery Plan Act. On Thursday, alongside Representative Dan Carey, Mayor Nicole LaChapelle, Director Katya Schapiro, and Board President Elizabeth Appelquist, I was happy to formally present the funds to the library. With this money, they can continue to be the cultural centerpiece of the Easthampton community. Libraries are not just a place to check out a book, they are a place of community and learning to those who need it.
I’d like to congratulate the Westfield High School Soft Ball team on winning their state championship! The hard work and persistence you all put in this season has shown. Your community and I are proud of your achievements, and we hope you are too!
Today, I attended the Pascommuck Conservation Trust’s 40th Anniversary celebration in Easthampton. This dedicated group of volunteers has grown from their first parcel in 1982 to now managing over 190 acres of preserved land. Thank you to the trust for helping to keep the Pioneer Valley beautiful for four decades!
As always, if there is anything I can do to assist you, please never hesitate to reach out to my office. I can 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!
Sincerely,
John Velis