Hello Everyone,
I hope all of you are getting outside and enjoying this spring weather. We had another packed week here in the legislature as the senate works to finalize its version of the FY2023 budget. Debate starts next week, and my staff and I have been very busy meeting with local organizations and preparing amendments that will benefit our district and our Commonwealth as a whole.
This was a big week for me and our local schools. It started off on Tuesday when I visited the 8th grade class from St. Joan of Arc School in Chicopee. We discussed the different levels of government, how the state legislature works, and a bit about my experience in the military. I was happy to visit this group of bright young individuals and St. Joan of Arc should be proud to have them as students.
On Thursday, alongside Representative Carey, I welcomed the winners of Easthampton High’s “We the People” civics team to the state house for a visit. As a lawyer, a lawmaker, and a veteran, I love seeing young people engage in civics. The team is the reigning Massachusetts State Champions and it was great to take them on a tour of the heart of government for the Commonwealth.
Westfield Dollars for Scholars also held their 60th annual scholarship event night this week and I was lucky to be asked to speak at the ceremony. This organization has been aiding the students of Westfield for the last six decades. It’s difficult to find someone from Westfield who hasn’t benefited from this group. Our city is blessed to have such individuals dedicated to expanding access to higher education.
This Wednesday at the Eastfield Mall, the Springfield partners for Community Action held their “Stars and Stripes Day” Veterans Resource Festival. This event helps to connect local veterans with service providers, community resources, employment opportunities and of course each other. Veterans, while being one of the most deserving groups in our country, are often unaware of the benefits and assistance available to them. The Resource Festival is a great way to make those connections and I thank the Springfield Partners for Community Action for putting on this event.
I also participated in a city wide clean up in Easthampton. While our work at the State House is vital, it is nice to get outside and get something tangible done with my hands. Thank you to Cub Scout Pack 209 for joining in on the cleanup and for giving me an excellent Sunday afternoon.
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