Weekly Update – October 26th

Hello Everyone, 

I hope everyone had good week.  The leaves seemed to have hit their peak, and the Pioneer Valley has been absolutely gorgeous this week.  While it has been unseasonably warm this week, I would like to remind everyone that my office is readily available to assist with applications for fuel assistance should you or anyone you know need it.   

I started off my week proudly accepting the Legislator of the Year award from the Providers’ Council. This wonderful organization works and advocates on behalf of our hard-working human service providers across the Commonwealth. I am extremely grateful to my good friends at the Gandara Center for nominating me for this honor. The Gandara Center, and all those like it here in our region, provide such critical services for families and individuals in need. Much of the legislation that I was able to get over the finish line this session was due in large part to their knowledge and collaboration.  As the Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use, and Recovery, it’s my honor to work alongside programs and providers like the Gandara Center. 

Wednesday, we had a farewell that will be felt across the Westfield community.  Mary Lou Niedzielski, longtime coordinator for the Westfield Council on Aging, and my dear friend, will be retiring from her role at the end of the month.  After many years of service to the folks of all ages in and around Westfield, you will be deeply missed. Thank you for everything that you have done for our community.  Please enjoy your retirement; it is so well deserved! 

Friday morning, I presented a citation to Wayfinders to commemorate the ribbon cutting of Rosewood Way, a new housing development in Agawam. This new mixed income housing will go a long way to providing sorely needed housing options to those in our community with their 62 new residences. Congratulations! 

Friday afternoon, I attended the Westfield Chamber of Commerce’s annual legislative luncheon.  Our small businesses are the backbone of our community, and the Chamber makes sure they have the resources they need to thrive.  This luncheon was very productive, and we discussed how Beacon Hill can best work alongside our business community to make sure that Westfield and the surrounding towns continue to develop.  Thank you to the Chamber for hosting and for asking me to speak.   

This week my office hosted office hours at the Russell COA on Tuesday.  Next week, we will be hosting office hours at the Westfield COA on Monday October 28th from 11:30am to 12:30pm and at the Southampton COA on Wednesday October 30th from 9:30am to 10:30am. If you can’t make office hours, I can always be reached by email, john.velis@masenate.gov, by phone, (413) 572-3920, and you can find me online at senatorjohnvelis.com. 

Sincerely, 

John Velis 

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