May 9, 2018

Dear Friend,

Small Business Week is an opportunity to celebrate all of the entrepreneurs who are willing to invest their hard-earned money into a small business. It is important that they have the resources they need to achieve success without a large number of regulations. We believe significant progress has been made through our continued efforts to roll back burdensome and costly regulations. Tax reform has also played an important role in fueling the economy. The unemployment rate is below four percent for the first time in decades. While we reflect on these accomplishments, we must remember those who have invested in our state and provided jobs to our citizens.

The Square Cupboard

Charlie, Jamie, Ruthie, and Francie Smith

Ten years ago, Charlie and Jamie Smith opened The Square Cupboard in downtown Hernando. Jamie is from Meridian and Charlie is a native of Holly Springs. When they moved to Hernando, they decided to open a business that would appeal to every shopper and every age. Jamie said she is extremely thankful for the support of her customers who have become good friends. Additionally, Jamie said she is looking forward to seeing how tax reform will benefit their operation.

Town and Country Furniture

Jeff, Deedra, Stella, Lola and Eva Hollis

Jeff and Deedra Hollis are the owners of Town and Country Furniture in Iuka. In 2004, the Hollises bought the business when Deedra's uncle decided to sell it. Since then, they have opened three more businesses. Jeff said consumer confidence in the economy has resulted in a significant increase in business. "We are really optimistic about what tomorrow will bring," Jeff said. "We believe that more money coming in for many families will move the needle in favor of small business operators."

peco foods

It is great to see more companies investing in our workforce and in the state of Mississippi. Peco Foods, an Alabama-based company, recently announced plans to invest $40 million and the hiring of 300 team members over the next four years in West Point. Peco Foods purchased a 185,000-square-foot cold storage warehouse that will be renovated to process chicken to supply their customers.

olive branch airport

The Olive Branch Airport is one of the busiest airports in Mississippi. Over the years, the facility has grown in size and traffic. In 2005, the airport completed a control tower which enables them to serve as a reliever airport to Memphis International Airport. DeSoto County is fortunate to have this facility which plays an important role in the recruitment of businesses and industries.

military academy appointment

Military service is an honor and a privilege. It is good to see more young people in the First District wanting to attend college at one of our nation's prestigious military academies. I am honored to be able to select a number of high school students who wish to serve as an officer in the U.S. Armed Forces. I am pleased to announce the appointment of Jordan Manley to the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Jordan, the son of Kirk and Kelly Manley, is a Tupelo High School senior. He ranks in the top four percent of his class. Jordan currently serves as the president of the National Honor Society and the Key Club. He is a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the Tupelo High School Varsity Baseball Team. His community service work includes volunteering for the Salvation Army, the Orchard Church Youth Group, the United Way school supply distribution program, and on National Public Lands Day.

For more information about attending one of the U.S. Armed Forces academies, please contact our military academy liaison Melinda Whited at (662) 687-1525.

yocona area council

The Boy Scouts of America teaches many valuable lessons that build character. I have always been proud to be a part of the Boy Scouts. Through hard work and determination, I earned the Eagle rank in 1980.

Tupelo Troop and Pack 85

Last week, The Yocona Area Council celebrated another successful year for the organization at their annual dinner in Tupelo. I was humbled to be selected as the 2018 Distinguished Citizen. My wife, Sheila and our three children; John Forest, Morgan, and Jackson are thankful to all those who made this a special night.

a week in pictures

For more photos from a week in pictures, please visit my Facebook page.

Home Builders and Remodelers Association
of Northeast Mississippi

Home Builders and Remodelers Association of
Northeast Mississippi President
Kenneth Estes and wife, Norma Jean

Saltillo National Day of Prayer breakfast

Lifepoint Pentecostal Church Pastor
Nicholes Robbins

Jacob Bailey at the Saltillo National Day of Prayer
breakfast

Saltillo Main Street Director Lindsey Hines
and Saltillo City Clerk Mary Parker

Troop 85 Scout Nehemiah Montgomery

Kirk Tharp, Greg Burkes and Stacy Simmons at
the Yocona Area Council dinner in Tupelo

Southaven Rotary Club Student of the
Month Erin Davis

For more photos from a week in pictures, please visit my Facebook page.

STAY IN TOUCH

Let me know if there is anything my office can do to assist you. You can keep up with the latest news by signing up for my newsletter and following me on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Thanks for reading,

Rep. Trent Kelly (MS-01)
Member of Congress