Hello everyone,
We hope you all had a great week!
This week our office and Senator Velis sent a letter alongside Representatives Pease and Finn to the Commissioner of Probation Services requesting that the agency revaluate whether the location of the proposed CRJ reentry facility is appropriate and take action to ensure CRJ is listening to our community’s very serious concerns. As a parent to a young child, the Senator shares the many concerns raised by our community regarding the re-entry facility and its proximity to both Southampton Road Elementary and Westfield Intermediate School. While our office and the Senator recognize the important role that structured, community-based programs like CRJ play in reducing recidivism and promoting long-term public safety, this location is simply not appropriate.
On Tuesday, the Special Commission on the Public Health Effects of Xylazine held its final meeting where it approved a comprehensive report and series of recommendations on ways to address the health and safety concerns posed by the proliferation of xylazine and other harmful contaminants found in the Commonwealth’s drug supply. Senator Velis was honored to have served as Co-Chair of this Special Commission alongside Representative Domb and appreciates her steadfast leadership of the Commission, particularly since his deployment began. This report makes strong recommendations intended to help those struggling with addiction not only minimize the very serious health effects contaminants like xylazine present but ultimately keep people alive.
Around the district this week there was a lot to celebrate, on Monday Mark joined the Mass Cultural Council for a grant celebration with several local community organizations that had been awarded grants by the agency over the last year. On Friday, the community gathered in Westfield to celebrate the grand openings of Dulcere Patisserie and Julie’s Nails, Team Velis wishes both businesses future success!
Over at the State House Caitlyn had the opportunity to sit down with constituents from Westfield, Holyoke, and West Springfield this week during the Alzheimer’s Association’s annual lobby day. From attending the annual Pioneer Valley Walk to backing legislation that would provide patient access to essential biomarker testing for Alzheimer’s, Senator Velis is committed to supporting individuals living with Alzheimer’s and their families.
On Thursday, Gabe greeted the “We the People” State Champions from Easthampton High School at the State House. During the visit the students demonstrated their impressive constitutional debate skills to legislators, toured both the Senate and House chambers, and finished their visit with photos on the front balcony overlooking Boston Common.
This week Team Velis hosted office hours in Westfield, Russell and Southampton. Next week there will be no community office hours. As always please never hesitate to stop into our office in Westfield if you are in need of assistance, or reach out to us by email, john.velis@masenate.gov, by phone, (413) 572-3920, or you can find us online at senatorjohnvelis.com.
Best,
Team Velis