365 DAYS OF ACTION WITH SENATOR ERIC P. LESSER
It's been one year since i took office and we've been working hard to make every day count. With an ambitious set of ideas and a relentless sense of optimism, I'm proud of the work we've done and everything that we've accomplished.
FROM MAKING REAL STRIDES IN CURBING THE OPIOID EPIDEMIC TO NEW PROGRAMS TRAINING OUR WORKERS, OUR FIRST YEAR IN OFFICE IS A STORY OF PROGRESS.
TO HELP TELL THAT STORY, I'D LIKE TO SHARE A SAMPLE OF 365 THINGS I'VE DONE IN THE LAST 365 DAYS (BOTH BIG AND SMALL!)
-SENATOR ERIC P. LESSER
1. Joined Attorney General Maura Healey to announce a $325,000 trust fund deposit for a Narcan Bulk Purchasing Program, made possible in part by legislation I wrote and filed
2. Brought the Senate Leadership on a tour of Western Massachusetts
3. Voted to secure passage in the Senate of a 50% increase in the state's Earned Income Tax Credit - the first increase in nearly 18 years, helping more than 400,000 working families
4. Spoke to a rally of hundreds of arts and culture advocates during the annual "Arts Matter Day" at the Wang Theater
5. Delivered my "Maiden Speech" on the Senate floor, securing funding for a precision manufacturing pilot program
6. Co-sponsored legislation that requires GMO foods to be labeled as such
7. Visited community policing neighborhoods with DA Gulluni and Senators Brownsberger & Welch to see how the Springfield Police Department is cultivating connections within the community to prevent crime
8. Authored a bill which became the basis of a new law enabling the bulk-purchase of Narcan, a lifesaving anti-overdose drug
9. Worked to secure an increase in funding for Hampden-Wilbraham Regional School District's regional school transportation costs, saving at least four teaching jobs!
10. Authored a bill, successfully passed in the Senate, seeking a feasibility study on high speed rail between Springfield and Boston
11. Toured Chicopee-based Dielectrics, a medical device and thermoplastic materials manufacturer
12. Supported funding for 250 new treatment beds to fight the heroin epidemic
13. Wrote an op-ed promoting tourism, arts, and culture as important economic engines for our region and our Commonwealth!
14. Voted to strengthen the penalties for trafficking fentanyl, a highly dangerous drug additive 40-50 times more potent than heroin
15. Launched my official Senate website!
16. Announced a $53,000 Green Communities Grant for Belchertown, helping them officially earn a Green Community designation
17. Appointed Vice Chair of the Joint Committee on Financial Services, charged with oversight of banks, insurance companies and investment companies
18. Promoted the launch of the Municipal Naloxone Bulk Purchasing Program, made possible in part due to legislation we filed earlier this year
19. Authored a provision, signed by Governor Baker in July, closing the pharmacy shopping loophole for highly addictive narcotics
20. Authored a bill that promotes investment in high-tech businesses in Gateway Cities like Springfield and Chicopee; and received a "New Ideas Challenge" finalist recognition from NewDEAL, a national organization that promotes innovative government ideas
21. Appointed the Chair of the Joint Committee on Tourism, Arts & Cultural Development, responsible for Massachusetts' 3rd largest industry
22. Visited the Springfield Boys and Girls Club to present a grant increase made possible by a successful amendment I filed in the FY16 budget
23. Published my first op-ed as state Senator about my plan for addressing the opioid crisis
24. Spoke to local higher education leaders at the announcement of state grants received by Springfield Technical Community College
25. Co-sponsored legislation that would make it easier for car companies sell directly to consumers, rather than through a dealership
26. Named Senate Chair of the Manufacturing Caucus
27. Toured FloDesign with Senator Warren and Congressman Neal to highlight the innovative, high-level R&D work happening in Western Mass!
28. Helped hundreds of constituents resolve their issues on a range of topics from healthcare to fuel assistance
29. Congratulated the Belchertown Girls Basketball Team on winning the State Championship
30. Joined my colleagues to announce funding for Fountain Park in Wilbraham
31. Judged a costume contest at the Granby Senior Center
32. Brought an additional $10.2 million in state aid for schools back to the 9 cities and towns of the First Hampden & Hampshire District
33. Testified to the Revenue Committee in support of S1507, my bill to promote high-tech job growth in Gateway Cities
34. Nominated Linda O'Connell of Springfield to attend the 75th Citizens Legislative Seminar in October
35. Hosted members of the Tourism industry at the State House to talk about the economic impact of the industry. Did you know $1 spent on tourism promotion has a $7 impact on the economy?
36. Lead a visit of the Joint Legislative Manufacturing Caucus to Maybury Material Handling in East Longmeadow, a national company supplying manufacturers with everything from shelving to forklifts -- they even let me drive one!
37. Visited the Willie Ross School for the Deaf, a treasured institution
38.Adjourned the Senate in memory of Gunnery Sgt. Thomas "Tommy" Sullivan of Springfield
39. Worked to secure a record funding increase for the Massachusetts Cultural Council - which promotes arts, culture and education programming in every corner of Massachusetts
40. Met with Governor Michael Dukakis at the State House about transportation planning in our Commonwealth
41. Visited the Forest Park Zoo where I held a very well behaved baby wallaby
42. Led a group of Senators on a tour of the Western Mass Alcohol Treatment Center in the wake of threats to the center's future
43. Met with MassDOT leadership about ways to ease congestion during the I-91 viaduct construction project
44. Toured Longmeadow Public Schools - including my alma maters Williams Middle School and Longmeadow High School - to learn about the future of the district's schools
45. Presented a citation to Charley Healey of East Longmeadow on being named the "Irish Elk of the Year"
46. Nominated Jean Canosa Albano of Wilbraham to attend the 75th Citizens' Legislative Seminar in October
47. Helped cut the ribbon on the new health-science focused Baystate Academy Charter School in Springfield
48. Visited the Tech Park at STCC, an area of exciting growth and opportunity for Springfield that we are working to support
49. Joined Rep. John Scibak for a meeting with MassDOT about intersection improvements in Granby
50. Gave my first official state Senate citation to Captain Prokop, who retired after 38 years in the Ludlow Fire Department
51. Worked with fellow legislators, local officials and community leaders to secure approval for a new drug court in Springfield
52. Successfully secured a $100,000 grant for the Spirit of Springfield to promote Bright Nights, the 4th of July Fireworks, and other community events. Did you know Bright Nights creates over $11 million in annual economic benefits?
53. Testified to the Financial Services Committee on S41, An Act clarifying municipal authority regarding cash sureties
54. Voted to outlaw the practice of “re-homing,” in which adopted children are given up outside of legal adoption channels
55. Submitted written testimony and continued our work supporting the Senate's Pay Equity Bill - a vote is expected early this year!
56. Attended a meeting with the MTA in Springfield to talk about the state of education
57. Worked to secure $350,000 in additional funding for the Ludlow Mills River Walk, allowing the people of Ludlow to access the Chicopee River for the first time in 100 years!
58. Adjourned the Senate in memory of Springfield's Michael Carney, the oldest surviving resident of the Great Blasket Island of Ireland
59. Met with local business leaders and the Springfield Chamber of Commerce at the State House during their day on the hill
60. Wrote an op-ed outlining my thoughts on helping our senior citizens
61. Presided over the passage of the first bill of the legislative session on January 29th
62. Obtained an additional $2 million in state aid for cities and towns in the First Hampden & Hampshire District over last year's budget!
63. Fielded hundreds of calls and emails from constituents on topics ranging from veterans' services to GMO labeling
64. Sat down with WGBY's Jim Madigan to talk about balancing the state budget while also protecting our region's most vulnerable residents
65. Received a congratulatory call from President Obama after being sworn into office
66. Cut the ribbon at the grand opening of Suit Up Springfield, a new nonprofit providing business clothes to young men entering the workforce
67. Voted to include $12 million in the FY16 budget to address the waitlist for kindergarten and overrode the Governor’s veto to ensure the funding was secured
68. Presented a citation to Major Steven Francis Sawyer on the occasion of his being named the Ludlow Veteran of the Year
69. Spoke at the Zoo at Forest Park's annual gala about the zoo's impact on our local tourism economy
70. Attended the annual Rays of Hope Race to support breast cancer awareness and research
71. Went to the Springfield Neighborhood Housing Services Legislative Breakfast to learn about their efforts to revitalize neighborhoods by encouraging home ownership!
72. Wrote a letter of support for S557, An Act to protect access to confidential healthcare, helping protect women's reproductive health records
73. Testified to the Judiciary Committee during a special session at Western New England University in support of the Stolen Valor Act, which was passed and signed into law this fall!
74. Fought for an additional $1 million reserve in the FY15 supplemental budget to provide support, training and other services for foster families and adoptive families
75. Voted to pass "An Act relative to fairness in workers’ compensation disfigurement benefits," which helps workers who were disfigured during the course of their job receive compensation
76. Cut the Ribbon at Eastec, the largest manufacturing trade show in the Northeast
77. Offered a citation to Kathryn Martowski in recognition of her retirement from the Ludlow Police Department
78. Presented citations to constituents in honor of their 90th birthday at the JCC's "Nifty 90's" ceremony
79. Held office hours at the East Longmeadow Senior Center to hear concerns from residents
80. Spoke to parents of children struggling with addiction during office hours at the Belchertown Senior Center
81. Supported Ludlow's Lupa Zoo at their annual fundraiser
82. Brought Senate Leadership on a tour of Hoppe Technologies, a precision manufacturing plant in Chicopee, to promote high-tech manufacturing
83. Co-sponsored a resolution before the Senate condemning all forms of anti-Semitism
84. Met with Governor Charlie Baker to discuss my legislative priorities, including east-west rail, substance abuse, and job training
85. Presented a citation to Eric Devine on being named the Springfield St. Patrick's Day Parade Marshal
86. Visited the White House with a group of advocates from the Jewish Federation of Western Massachusetts
87. Marched in the East Longmeadow 4th of July Parade - my daughter Rose even joined for a bit!
88. Announced Massachusetts School Building Authority Accelerated Repairs to East Street School in Ludlow
89. Visited the Randall Boys and Girls Club in Ludlow to announce funding after I secured a $100,000 statewide increase in this year's state budget
90. Congratulated the Longmeadow High School Girls Lacrosse Team for winning the Division I State Championship
91. Visited the Mass Municipal Wholesale Electric Co. in Ludlow, one of the town's top employers, which provides power to municipalities across Massachusetts
92. Voted to include funding in the supplemental budget for police body camera pilot programs across the state to ensure a more transparent criminal justice system
93. Published an op-ed describing ways we can honor our veterans for their service
94. Congratulated the Longmeadow Boy's Lacrosse Team on Winning the Division I Western Mass Championship
95. Voted to pass An Act relative to enhanced enforcement of civil penalties, which helps workers seek lost wages from employers who violate wage laws
96. Delivered the Keynote Address during the opening of Eastec, the region's largest manufacturing trade show, at the Eastern States Exposition
97. Joined my Western Mass colleagues to successfully lobby for a change to regulations that had led to outrageously high electricity rate increases
98. Stopped by WHYN's "Big Breakfast" live from the Fort to talk with Adam and Bo about the state budget
99. Spoke to the Longmeadow High School Key Club about volunteerism and community service
100. Spoke to the Forest Park Civic Association about public safety, economic development and substance abuse
101. Was interviewed by Santa Claus (!) during WHYN's annual Christmas Eve open house
102. Visited students at Heritage Academy to share the story of the first White House Seder and collect a Seder plate they made for President Obama
103. Spoke to dozens of librarians at a "Day of Action" to promote the importance of public library funding
104. Spoke at the East Forest Park Civic Association about efforts to save Cathedral High School and build a new library branch
105. Hosted a reception at Samuel's Sports Bar in Springfield thanking supporters and celebrating our swearing in
106. Met with the Davis Foundation to learn about their philanthropic efforts in education in the Springfield area
107. Visited the East Street Bridge in Ludlow after working to secure state funds to get the bridge repaired
108. Joined Lt. Governor Polito to sign the Granby Community Compact
109. Marched in the annual Belchertown Fair Parade
110. Voted to direct $120 million to the state’s Rainy Day Fund to ensure fiscal stability
111. Addressed dozens of artists at the annual Artists Under the Dome event at the State House
112. Toured the Lower Pioneer Valley Educational Collaborative new manufacturing training program, supported by an amendment I filed in the State Budget
113. Announced the existence of $19.25 million in unclaimed property in the First Hampden & Hampshire District
114. Spoke to a school-wide assembly at Wilbraham & Monson Academy about young people in politics
115. Offered a citation to Steven Joseph Bournique in honor of being named the 2015 Springfield Elks Lodge Veteran of the Year
116. Adjourned the Senate in memory of Springfield's Kathryn "Kate" Mauke
117. Proud to co-sponsor and offer written testimony in support of S735, the Transgender Anti-Discrimination bill
118. Called into WHYN with Adam and Bo to talk about the Senate's substance abuse bill
119. Led a tour of business and legislative leaders of Menck Window, a new precision manufacturer in Chicopee
120. Joined my fellow senators to increase transparency in the Senate by amending the Senate Rules to include posting of legislation and amendments online in a timely manner
121. Authored a bill designating Moyamoya Awareness Day on behalf of two of my constituents living with this disease
122. Met World War II veterans at the Holyoke Soldiers' Home and learned about the vital services offered to our elderly veterans
123. Toured the Lower Pioneer Valley Educational Collaborative and met with students engaged in vocational training related to botany, culinary arts, graphic design, and automotive maintenance
124. Met with Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Mitchell Chester to talk about the state of education in Massachusetts
125. Co-sponsored four bills on education, including one aimed at reducing unfunded mandates in public schools
126. Spoke to a packed house at the Palmer Town Library about my bill promoting east-west high speed rail
127. Met students in Girls Who Code, a STEM program designed to encourage girls to enter science and technology fields, during their summer session at MassMutual
128. Attended the Groundbreaking of the CRRC Railroad Facility which will employ over 150 people in Springfield!
129. Attended the annual Hampden Senior Center fall picnic
130. Supported a resolution commemorating the observance of June 27, 2015 as National Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Day
131. Shook a few martinis as a "celebrity bartender" at The Fort to benefit the Springfield Symphony Orchestra
132. Submitted written testimony in support of a U.S. Constitutional Amendment to overturn Citizens United
133. Wrote an op-ed promoting innovation in government
134. Visited Nathan Bill's Bar & Restaurant in Springfield Nov. 23 to support their US Marine Corps “Toys for Tots” drive, held in memory of Gunnery Sergeant Thomas "Tommy" J. Sullivan
135. Welcomed children back on the First Day of School at Kiley Jr. High School in Springfield
136. Hosted members of the Regional Tourism Councils and other Massachusetts tourism leaders at the State House for a day of advocacy
137. Joined a group of young elected officials from across the country for a day of meetings with senior federal officials at the White House
138. Visited the Develop Springfield Innovation Center, the new home of Valley Venture Mentors, in Springfield. I'm proud of championing innovation policy at the Statehouse
139. Led a tour of the Hasbro/Cartamundi plant in East Longmeadow as part of "Manufacturing Month"
140. Visited Westover Air Reserve Base with Governor Charlie Baker for a briefing with the base Commander
141. Became the only Western Mass legislator appointed to the Special Senate Committee on Opioid Abuse
142. Offered congratulations and citations to Eagle Scouts Warner Adams and Maxwell Lamontagne of Belchertown Troop 57
143. Served Lunch and delivered Meals on Wheels to senior citizens in East Longmeadow
144. Published an op-ed on the importance of advanced manufacturing across the Commonwealth and closing the skills gap here in Western Mass
145. Toured East Longmeadow Public Schools with Superintendent Gordon Smith to learn about the need for a new high school
146. Joined the Regional Transportation Authorities Caucus to coordinate advocacy for regional mass transit, including the PVTA
147. Met with the Wilbraham Select Board to discuss unfunded mandates, local aid, education policy and areas for further state support
148. Marched in Springfield's Stone Soul Parade
149. Joined Commissioner of Early Education and Care Tom Weber and several others to announce grants for the expansion of access to high-quality preschool education in Springfield
150. Met with the Board of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra to learn more about one of our region's great cultural assets
151. Toured Fairview Elementary School in Chicopee to highlight our work promoting universal kindergarten
152. Helped restore funding for Visitor Information Centers across our Commonwealth, promoting tourism and fostering economic growth!
153. Voted to move Rep. Kocot’s bill H2924, "An Act relative to the Connecticut River rowing facility," out of the Joint Committee on Tourism, Arts, and Cultural Development for consideration by the full legislature
154. Voted to pass the “Stolen Valor Act" sponsored by Rep. Velis, which makes it illegal to fraudulently claim veteran status in order to gain employment or financial benefits
155. Congratulated the Longmeadow Girls' Volleyball Team for winning the Western Mass Division II Championship
156. Visited the Doverbrook Estates in Chicopee to honor those who served on Veterans Day
157. Participated in a "Town Hall" forum at Holyoke Community College with hundreds of community leaders from across the Pioneer Valley
158. Worked with fellow legislators to secure funding to promote new airline routes from Logan Airport to Israel and Asia!
159. Toured and met with the team at Excel Dryer in East Longmeadow, part of my work as Senate Chair of the Manufacturing Caucus
160. Joined the Regional Schools Caucus to better advocate for the Hampden-Wilbraham Regional School District
161. Spoke to the Men and Women of Sinai Temple about my first 10 months in office
162. Congratulated the Longmeadow Boys' Tennis Team on winning Western Mass Division I Championship
163. Huddled with local tourism leaders to strategize on best ways to promote the Pioneer Valley's tourism economy
164. Went on the Adam Wright Show on WHYN 560 to talk about my appointment as Chair of the Joint Committee on Tourism
165. Voted to approve $8.3 million in road and sidewalk funding for the 9 cities and towns of the 1st Hampden and Hampshire district
166. Graduated from Harvard Law School!
167. Supported a provision in the Senate's Substance Abuse Bill to promote insurance coverage for non-opioid based pain treatment methods such as physical therapy
168. Helped cut the cake at the 20th anniversary of Loomis Lakeside at Reeds Landing, a senior housing community in Springfield
169. Visited Link to Libraries to celebrate the 400,000th book they've donated
170. Joined the Tech Hub Caucus to better cultivate a technology economy in Western Massachusetts
171. Joined Harold Grinspoon during his annual conference for student entrepreneurs in downtown Springfield
172. Offered an official citation to Ronn and Donna Johnson for receiving the Pynchon Award from the Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts
173. Favorably polled Rep. Swan’s bill H2030, An Act to authorize the construction of an Underground Railroad, Civil Rights and Black Heritage Museum and Cultural Center in Springfield, out of the Joint Committee on Tourism, Arts and Cultural Development
174. Voted to grant free access to state parks for Purple Heart recipients
175. Hosted Israeli Consul General to New England Yehuda Yaakov on a tour of the Greater Springfield area to explore economic and cultural partnerships made possible by new direct flights between Tel Aviv and Boston
176. Toured the Polish Center of Discovery and Learning in Chicopee - a hidden gem!
177. Nominated Gianna Allentuck from Longmeadow to be named an "Unsung Heroine" by the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women
178. Helped secure $150,000 for Talk, Read, Succeed! which helps students in Springfield reach reading proficiency by 4th grade
179. Met with the Chicopee City Council to discuss substance abuse, transportation, public safety, and a variety of other issues
180. Laid a wreath at the East Longmeadow Rotary in honor of Veterans Day
181. Signed onto a resolution commemorating the celebration of Chanukah
182. Welcomed the Squires Family from Longmeadow to the State House! (They won a visit during the annual Rachel's Table auction)
183. Toured the Sisters of St. Providence addiction treatment center, where nearly 1,000 people a day receive care
184. Read aloud to students at Ludlow's East Street School
185. Congratulated the towns of Ludlow, Springfield, and Granby for receiving $90,000 in crime prevention funds
186. Toured Eastman Chemical Co. in Indian Orchard to learn about the next generation of car windshields and the great manufacturing work happening in Springfield!
187. Stopped by a Project Bread site in Springfield's Emerson Wight Park--I'm proud to champion anti-hunger efforts, especially for our children
188. Cut the ribbon at the new PetSmart on Memorial Avenue in Chicopee
189. Joined Governor Charlie Baker to kick off "Manufacturing Month" at the State House in October
190. Voted to add the drug Gabapentin, which is used illegally to enhance the effect of opiates, to the Prescription Monitoring Program for reporting and monitoring by the Department of Public Health
191. Met with the East of the River 5 Town Chamber of Commerce to talk about ways to support local businesses
192. Supported H784, which would prohibit gender discrimination in disability insurance policies
193. Greeted Domingos Fezas Vital, the new Portuguese Ambassador to the U.S., and José Rui Velez Caroço, Portuguese Consul-General, during their visit to the Statehouse. I invited them to tour Western Mass!
194. Voted to prohibit individuals from removing American flags or markers from veterans' graves or those of first responders
195. Displayed a historical map of Springfield in the State House, on loan from the Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History
196. Served pancakes at the World's Largest Pancake Breakfast in Springfield
197. Voted for Act relative to innovative communities, which helps link cities and towns with startup companies to improve public services
198. Supported a measure to provide $100,000 to Springfield's Square One to continue their educational and support services for families in need
199. Helped organize the New England Museum of Association's first "Massachusetts Museum Day" at the State House. Museums are a major driver of the Commonwealth's tourism economy, and I'm proud to support them
200. Spoke to the annual Holyoke St. Patrick's Day "Ambassador's Breakfast" about the impact of the parade on our local economy
201. Toured the Richard E. Neal Caring Health Center to learn how they are working to improve lives in Springfield
202. Joined Rep. Petrolati and Secretary of Housing and Economic Development Jay Ash for a tour of the Ludlow Mills, one of the most important redevelopment opportunities in Western Mass
203. Presented a citation to Tammy Bibeau at Granby's "Men Who Cook" event for her dedication to Granby Public Schools' music program
204. Appeared in an educational documentary for local students and parents about the opiate addiction crisis
205. Supported the Senate version of the Early Retirement Incentive Program to alleviate the state budget shortfall
206. Visited with Joe Coles, the Children's Miracle Network Massachusetts representative, at Baystate to congratulate him on all of his advocacy work
207. Toured the Shriners Hospital and met with their senior leadership to learn more about the inspiring work they're doing for children
208. Met with UMass Amherst Chancellor Kumble Subbaswamy to discuss higher education policy and budget priorities
209. Presented a citation to the Children's Study Home in honor of their 150th year of helping some of our region's most vulnerable children
210. Spoke at the dedication of the new Gunnery Sergeant Thomas J. Sullivan Park in East Forest Park
211. Toured Mercy Medical Center in Springfield to learn first-hand about challenges and opportunities facing our healthcare providers
212. Participated in a legislative symposium with the Chicopee Chamber of Commerce
213. Continued our work to promote S1007, a Resolution encouraging more female representation on corporate boards
214. Voted to increase funding for the Department of Children and Families, ensuring that the children in their care are protected
215. Voted to create a penalty for anyone who sells or buys a veteran's grave marker
216. Supported a Senate bill that takes steps to improve the quality of home support services, including Alzheimer's care and physical therapy
217. Delivered remembrance remarks during Memorial Day ceremonies in Longmeadow
218. Sat down several times with Jim Madigan for WGBY's "The State We're In" to discuss topics ranging from the opioid crisis to tourism and infrastructure
219. Joined with my colleagues in the Legislature to secure $75,000 for New England Public Radio
220. Had a lively session during office hours at the Ludlow Senior Center. Topics discussed: healthcare, job growth, housing, and grandchildren!
221. Presented Northstar Recycling Company in East Longmeadow with a citation for being named "Best Place to Work" by Plastics Magazine
222. Attended a rally to #SaveCatHigh at the Cedars
223. Toured Veterans Park and East Street Elementary School in Ludlow with Superintendent Todd Gazda and other education leaders to see firsthand the need for the state to help with renovations
224. Named a "New American Leader" by NewDEAL, a national organization of progressive young leaders
225. Spoke to a WestMass Development Board Meeting and discussed topics ranging from industrial development to tourism promotion
226. Appeared on Comcast Spotlight Newsmakers to discuss the beginning of my term
227. Toured the Chicopee Public Schools with Superintendent Richard Rege and School Committee member Michael Pise
228. Met with Sheriff Garvey to learn more about corrections in Hampshire County and efforts toward criminal justice reform
229. Spoke with the Hampshire County Fire Chiefs at their annual steak dinner
230. Joined Senators Welch and Humason to adjourn the Senate in honor of our constituent and WWII Veteran, Delfo Barbani of Chicopee
231. Supported a provision in the Senate's Substance Abuse Bill to require drug companies to fund safe disposal programs for highly addictive narcotics
232. Spoke at the Wounded Warrior 5K kick-off in Longmeadow
233. Co-sponsored the "Pregnant Worker's Fairness Act," ensuring fairness and dignity for pregnant women in the workplace
234. Voted to provide our state higher education institutions the highest increase in FY16 funding, compared to the House and Governor’s budget proposals
235. Voted to require anyone who damages a gravestone to pay restitution to the owner of the property
236. Celebrated the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with students at Springfield College
237. Spoke with constituents at our Long Meddowe Days tent on the Longmeadow Green
238. Promoted #StateWithoutStigma, a campaign aimed at ending the stigma of addiction
239. Visited Snow Farm in Williamsburg, a nationally recognized arts colony, with Senator Downing
240. Addressed an assembly of concerned parents and students at Minnechaug Regional High School before Chris Herren's talk on substance abuse
241. Spoke at the dedication of the First Sergeant Kevin Dupont Memorial Middle School in Chicopee
242. Promoted Western Mass at a gathering of young entrepreneurs at Valley Venture Mentors
243. Worked to secure funding for the Springfield Museums, one of our biggest tourist attractions, in my role as Chair of the Joint Committee on Tourism, Arts, & Cultural Development
244. Appeared before the Longmeadow Select Board to answer questions about local aid and learn about issues facing the town
245. Began collaboration with Springfield's economic development leaders on ways to attract new businesses to Springfield
246. Presented the 2015 Commonwealth Award in Media to Rus Peotter, General Manager of WGBY Springfield
247. Held a roundtable with local manufacturers at Tech Spring to learn about the need for greater workforce development efforts
248. Met with mayors from Western Mass and Senate President Rosenberg to hear about the needs that they have in their cities
249. Met with the Boards of Selectmen from Longmeadow, East Longmeadow, Hampden, Wilbraham, and Ludlow about the new regional 911 center they are considering
250. Chaired the first hearing of the Tourism, Arts, and Cultural Development Committee
251. Co-sponsored a successful amendment to the Senate's Substance Abuse bill to allow patients to request a "partial fill" prescription of certain highly addictive narcotics
252. Joined Anita Walker, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Cultural Council, to announce new Cultural Council grants for Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin Counties
253. As a member of the Senate’s Special Committee on Opioid Addiction, issued legislation to address the substance abuse crisis in the Commonwealth
254. Voted to pass legislation allowing UMass to retain control over its in-state tuition collection, allowing for the university to have greater predictability and control over its own budget
255. Spoke to students in the East Longmeadow High School Model Congress to discuss the importance of youth involvement in the political process
256. Published an op-ed on ways to promote equal opportunity for women and girls
257. Spoke at the the first annual "Celebrate Kate" 5k in memory of Kathryn "Kate" Mauke, to help end domestic violence
258. Presented several constituents with awards for their successful participation in the "Secure Jobs for Homeless Families program"
259. Attended the East of the River 5 Town Chamber of Commerce's Holiday Party
260. Spoke with veterans, seniors, and mental health advocates during office hours at the Longmeadow Senior Center
261. Joined the Regional Schools Caucus to better advocate for the towns of Wilbraham and Hampden and the students who attend Minnechaug
262. Channeled my inner Irish during several St. Patrick's Day events at the John Boyle O'Reilly Club
263. Met with Boston Mayor Marty Walsh on ways to enhance east-west collaboration
264. Welcomed students from across our district to the State House on Student Government Day
265. Sat down with CBS3's Cherise Leclerc to talk about why we shouldn't balance the budget on the backs of some of those who need the most help
266. Spoke to the Massachusetts Regional Tourism Councils on the state of the tourism economy and how we can increase state support
267. Met with the Hampden Select Board to discuss education, road, parks and solar projects in town
268. Co-hosted Boston Herald Radio's "Morning Meeting" with Hillary Chabot. My former boss David Axelrod called in!
269. Honored those whose lives were lost on 9/11 at the Hungry Hill Senior Center in Springfield
270. Shot hoops with Israeli Consul General Yehuda Yaakov at the Basketball Hall of Fame during his visit to Western Massachusetts
271. Presented a joint Resolution with Rep. Brian Ashe in honor of the 300th Anniversary of Longmeadow's First Church
272. Met with the Belchertown Select Board to discuss the State School, road funding, culture and education initiatives
273. Published an op-ed offering ways we can make college more affordable
274. Voted to fund the Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund to train unemployed and low-wage workers
275. Spoke with home health attendants at Emerson Manor in Longmeadow to discuss patient and worker protection issues
276. Met with the Board of the Springfield Business Improvement District to learn how private-public partnerships are helping make downtown Springfield a great place to live, work, and have fun
277. Met with MassDOT Secretary Stephanie Pollack to help get the East Street Bridge in Ludlow reopened
278. Gave a presentation at the Springfield Public Library 16 Acres Branch's public forum on the benefits high-speed rail can bring to our region
279. Supported funding for Massachusetts "Buy Local" programs, which help our local farmers provide communities with fresh local food options at farmers markets and through farmshares!
280. Met with Next Generation group from the Jewish Federation of Western MA to discuss the future of our region, especially for young people
281. Stopped by the Granby Veterans' Chicken BBQ, which is raising money to build a veteran's memorial in Granby - a very worthwhile project
282. Joined in the ribbon cutting of Bay Path University Health Science Center in East Longmeadow
283. Joined Chicopee civic leadership for the annual State of the City address
284. Toured Minnechaug Regional High School and visited their Spanish Language Lab
285. Co-sponsored a bill to allow Election Day voter registration
286. Met with Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Ron Walker about the alarming manufacturing skills gap we face in Western Mass
287. Met with Mayor Sarno and other local leaders on ways to improve public safety in Springfield
288. Met with Superior Court Justices about the condition of the courthouse, criminal justice issues, and the opiate addiction crisis
289. Spoke to Granby High School seniors at their "College Success" campaign kick-off
290. Convened a roundtable of local tech entrepreneurs and Israeli Consul General Yehuda Yaakov to promote Israeli investment in Western Massachusetts (and vice-versa)
291. Stopped by the first Mark Kofman Memorial Basketball Tournament at the Jewish Community Center
292. Toured Union Station and got an update on the construction progress
293. Submitted written testimony in support of a Senate plan to expand Medicaid eligibility for seniors
294. Voted to fund the Training Resources and Internship Networks Grant Program, which partners with community colleges to provide training and internship opportunities for the long-term unemployed
295. Met with Mayor Sarno, Senator Welch, and Secretary Jay Ash to begin a process for improving delivery of support services for homeless families
296. Sponsored a measure that helps fund public art displays in new or renovated public buildings
297. Said hello to an enthusiastic group of students from Longmeadow's Wolf Swamp Road Elementary School visiting the State House!
298. Spoke to doctors at Mercy Medical Center about the ongoing opioid epidemic and the ways the Senate is working to end it
299. Voted to establish and fund a substance abuse screening program in schools to provide early intervention and treatment services when necessary
300. Published an op-ed in the Harvard Crimson on the importance of making a difference in your home community
301. Spoke at the 4th Inauguration of Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno
302. Presented a citation to outgoing Williams Middle School Principal Chris Collins in honor of his retirement
303. Toured the full-day kindergarten program at Chicopee's Fairview Veterans Memorial Elementary to promote the benefits of full-day kindergarten
304. Appointed to the Council of State Government's Public Health Committee
305. Toured the MassLive Building with Evan Plotkin and learned about his efforts to start a Cultural District in Springfield
306. Co-sponsored successful legislation to designate the "Boston Cream Cupcake" the official cupcake of the Commonwealth (Invented by Koffee Cup Bakery in Springfield!)
307. Named one of Business West's "40 Under 40" young professionals at their annual gala
308. Visited the Chicopee Boys and Girls Club to present a check after we secured a record increase for Boys & Girls Clubs in the state budget
309. Marched in the Springfield Puerto Rican Day Parade
310. Hosted Consul General Yehuda Yaakov for lunch with the Western Massachusetts Jewish Federation
311. Supported an initiative in the year-end supplemental budget to allocate $3.8 million for substance abuse counselors, increasing access to treatment for those struggling from substance abuse
312. Spoke to a group of medical residents from Brigham and Women's Hospital about our ongoing efforts to reduce the Opioid Abuse epidemic
313. Wrote letter in support for S1468, which would make 529 college savings plans tax-deductible in Massachusetts
314. Voted twice to raise the Net Metering cap, essential to continuing Massachusetts' leadership in solar energy
315. Co-sponsored eight bills on Health Care and Prescription Drugs including one that would allow patients to choose between name-brand and generic drugs
316. Delivered the Commencement Address to the Graduating Class of Porter and Chester Institute in Chicopee
317. Spoke at Wilbraham's annual Memorial Day Ceremony
318. Congratulated Bay Path University on receiving a $300,000 National Science Foundation grant to boost women's participation in biology, forensic science and cybersecurity
319. Learned about the great conservation and recycling work happening at Springfield's EcoBuilding Bargains, the largest recycled building materials store in New England!
320. Joined Governor Baker and Mayor Kos to announce a new MassWorks Grant in Chicopee
321. Stopped by the annual Chicopee Democratic City Committee Picnic at the Moose Lodge
322. Toured the Springfield Public Schools with Superintendent Dan Warwick, including schools in the highly successful Empowerment Zone
323. Presented this year's debate championship trophy to the winning team from Longmeadow High School
324. Visited with delegates from the American Council of Young Political Leaders from Northern Ireland at the State House
325. Marched in the Holyoke St. Patrick's Day Parade!
326. Co-sponsored a bill filed by Senator Gobi that would make it easier for patients with Lyme Disease to get the insurance coverage they need
327. Met with Sheriff Michael Ashe and Senators Brownsberger and Welch to discuss criminal justice reform
328. Read to children at the World Premiere of the new Dr. Seuss book, What Pet Should I Get?
329. Met with the Realtors Association of Western Massachusetts to learn about our housing market
330. Brought Israeli Consul General Yehuda Yaakov on a tour of the Big E - brand new direct flights just began between Tel Aviv and Boston - let's bring those visitors to the Big E!
331. Celebrated Rose's 2nd Birthday at the Forest Park Zoo!
332. Secured funds to help the Town of Hampden finish building the Memorial Park Playground!
333. Wrote an op-ed outlining how we can reduce hunger and food insecurity for our most vulnerable residents
334. Voted to pass a Climate Change Preparedness bill
335. Visited the Treehouse Foundation, an organization that's working hard to move foster children into permanent, loving homes!
336. Received the Longmeadow "Democrat of the Year" Award at the Democratic Town Committee's annual brunch
337. Marched in the Granby Memorial Day Parade
338. Spoke with Bax & O'Brien several times to discuss topics from the new drug court in Springfield to Narcan to my long-winded answers :)
339. Met with Students at Veritas Charter School in Springfield
340. Visited the Arbors in East Longmeadow to read Halloween stories to the kids!
341. Attended a Legislative Breakfast with DA Gulluni and members of the Western Mass Delegation to discuss ways to help the DA's office accomplish it's mission of making our neighborhoods safe
342. Honored the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the MassMutual Center in Springfield
343. Roasted Rock 102's Bax and O'Brien in honor of their 20th Anniversary
344. Met with the Springfield City Council's Government Affairs Committee about local aid and municipal-state collaboration
345. Presented to the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce on my work to connect Boston and Springfield via high-speed rail
346. Met with leaders of the Massachusetts Cultural Council to promote culture and arts funding in this year's budget
347. Toured the Hampden County Courthouse in Springfield with DA Gulluni to begin the process of building a new courthouse
348. Met with the Springfield Housing Department to learn about their efforts to curb delinquent properties
349. Attended a marathon Financial Services Committee hearing on ridesharing regulations for Uber, Lyft and other transportation network services
350. Toured the Belchertown Public Schools and met with a group of high schoolers interested in public service
351. Nominated Frances South of Belchertown to attend the 74th Annual Citizens’ Legislative Seminar held at the State House
352. Spoke at Ludlow's annual Veterans Day Ceremony
353. Participated in a documentary competition with students from Baird Middle School in Ludlow for C-SPAN
354. Joined the Senate to eliminate the automatic suspension of a driver’s license for non-violent drug offenders whose offense had nothing to do with an automobile, allowing rehabilitation for those suffering from substance abuse
355. Championed legislation in the Senate that will protect students' and job applicants' privacy on social media
356. Wrote an op-ed supporting the need for high-quality, universal, free pre-kindergarten and kindergarten education
357. Spoke at the Ludlow Portuguese Memorial Day Ceremony about the sacrifice our veterans made in honor of our country
358. Presented Stephen O'Shea of Springfield, the "Irish Person of the Year," with a Citation at the John Boyle O'Reilly Club
359. Joined the Gateway Cities Caucus to better advocate for Springfield and Chicopee
360. Named a finalist of the “New Ideas Challenge” sponsored by New DEAL, a national organization for young elected officials
361. Nominated Michele Marantz of Longmeadow to attend 74th Annual Citizens’ Legislative Seminar held at the State House
362. Co-sponsored a bill to close the offshore corporate tax loophole
363. Spoke on the importance of manufacturing and worker training at #checkpoint2015 Legislative Symposium
364. Co-sponsored two bills on establishing a Commission on the Status of Women and Girls in Hampden and Hampshire Counties
365. Sworn in as the Senator for the First Hampden-Hampshire District
It's been an incredible 365 days and i'm excited for what the next 365 days have in store. thank you for all your friendship and support!