June 30, 2020

Dear Friend,

This week, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) launches on Wednesday, July 1. This historic trade agreement modernizes the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), enforcing freer and more balanced trade.

Mississippi's economy stands to benefit from the $3.2 billion in exports to Mexico and Canada - a level expected to grow with fairer trade practices. Vital steps have been taken to pave the way for its success via tax reform and deregulation. The USMCA's entry into force will build upon those measures, moving our nation forward into the 21st century.

Adopt-a-hero : Southern Flour Bakery

In Mississippi and across America, front line workers have and continue to provide much-needed care for all those impacted by COVID-19. Day and night, these men and women have met this unprecedented challenge without fail. They are heroes in every sense of the word. That is a feeling shared by Nicole Huff, co-owner of Southern Flour Bakery in Columbus.

Jade (daughter) and Nicole

When COVID-19 claimed center stage, Nicole wanted to thank front line workers for meeting this challenge head-on. The solution was an easy one - deliver baked goods straight to the source.

In no time, members of the community found out about her Adopt-a-Hero program and got involved, donating money to keep it going. The orders are still coming in strong. Let us all be thankful for the generosity of our fellow Mississippians and for Nicole's outstanding work in Lowndes County.

congratulations to conner sprout!

It is my pleasure to announce the graduation of 2nd Lt. Conner Sprout from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Conner, a native of Olive Branch, said he will never forget graduation day because President Donald Trump delivered remarks and saluted the 1,107 graduates, two at a time. During his four years at West Point, Conner has distinguished himself by being chosen as Company Commander for one semester. This honor placed him in a leadership role over 108 cadets.

Conner said his years at West Point put him to the test, both mentally and physically. "The happiest memories have been the ones that I have made with my friends at West Point," Conner said. "I was lucky to have a support system there and one back home." The next mission for Conner will be completion of the Armor Basic Officers Leaders Course (ABOLC) at Fort Benning, Georgia. From there, he will take a leadership role at Fort Riley, Kansas. Conner's goal is to be a Armor Officer, leading a tank platoon.

I am proud of Conner's outstanding success at West Point and will continue to bring you updates as he pursues a leadership role in the U.S. Army. For more information about the nomination process to one of America's prestigious Service Academies, please contact Robert Smith at (662) 687-1540 or send him an email Robert.Smith@mail.house.gov

Johnny & Sue Armand - DeSoto county

The coronavirus pandemic has proved challenging for thousands of Mississippi business owners, including Johnny and Sue Armand. The husband and wife team operate Armand Advertising LLC in Horn Lake with help from their six sales representatives. When COVID-19 impacted the need for their promotional products, Johnny and Sue switched gears and began seeking out personal protective equipment (PPE) to sell.

This decision has helped their business to stay afloat without any grants or loans. "We are thankful that we were able to find PPE to sell," Sue said. "We also donated PPE to the Horn Lake Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, we have donated PPE to our church family, friends and local residents. We are thankful that the good Lord has provided."

welcome to abbey herfurth!

I am pleased to introduce Abbey Herfurth, Legislative Correspondent in our Washington, D.C., office. Abbey carefully keeps track of all your phone calls, letters and emails to our office. With her assistance, we make sure you receive a response to all inquiries. She also works closely with our policy team, informing them about issues raised by our constituents. Abbey is a graduate of Auburn University and the Mississippi College School of Law. The Missouri native has experience working on Capitol Hill as an intern and staff assistant. Abbey said she loves the pace of Washington, D.C. "Working in DC has been a roller coaster in a positive way," Abbey said. "I really enjoy working closely with legislative assistants on matters of policy." We are glad to have Abbey on Team Kelly!

ravin chittom - update

Booneville High School graduate Ravin Chittom is one of the outstanding First Congressional District students I nominated to attend the United States Air Force Academy. His parents, Daniel and Laurie Chittom, said their goodbyes to Ravin last Thursday in Colorado. "Ravin knew that he wanted to be in the military from a very young age," Laurie said. "I have experienced a range of emotions, but I am so proud to be Ravin's mother. He worked extremely hard to receive an appointment to the USAFA."

kelly in the news

Reps. Thornberry, Kelly applaud inclusion of Military Family Readiness Act in 2021 NDAA
"As members of the House Armed Services Committee, it is our duty to make sure their needs are met at home and across the world." - Congressman Kelly The securing of this Act in 2021's NDAA ensures the necessary protections of American military families.

Kelly encourages comments on Yazoo backwater pump project
"The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers needs to be fully aware of the critical need for this project. Mississippians - especially the victims of these tragic circumstances, have a voice in this process. Now is the time to use it." The project would alleviate flooding in the South Delta, aiding landowners and farmers impacted by the environmental disaster.

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