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