February 10, 2017
Dear Friend,
It is a top priority to make sure our nation's military strength is restored to levels that will keep America safe. Our military men and women must receive proper training and be ready to save lives when there is a threat to our national security. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I remain committed to strengthening our defense readiness capabilities. At "The State of the Military" hearing this week, we listened to our U.S. Armed Forces generals who said our military needs to be strengthened to fight on multiple fronts, and additional resources need to be provided to improve our defense capabilities. Admiral William Moran said at current support levels, it's going to take eight years to get our readiness back and that's just in the Navy. The U.S. Armed Forces do not have the luxury of taking the day off. We must help them get back to what's most important to all of us - a state of readiness. To watch my remarks from the hearing, please select the video link below.
ACTIONS IN THE HOUSE
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Reining in the Department of Education
Decisions about education are best left to state and local leaders instead of the federal government. This week, I was proud to support two pieces of legislation that will stop the Department of Education from expanding its role in local education decisions. H.J.Res. 57, stops implementation of a rule that would violate prohibitions on the Secretary of Education's authority by dictating accountability standards for schools. This legislation passed by a vote of 234-190. H.J. Res. 58, stops the Department of Education from unilaterally changing teacher preparation standards and evaluations for every state. The bill passed by a bipartisan vote of 240-181. Parents, teachers and administrators should be empowered to make decisions that we know to be best for their local communities, and these bills will ensure that that authority is not taken away by the federal government.
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community service awards
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Congratulations to Mississippi's top youth volunteers of 2017 announced this week by The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards officials. I am proud to see two young Mississippians from the First District recognized for their volunteer work.
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| Caroline Spell and Brooks Taylor |
Caroline Spell of Hernando raised money for a worthwhile organization. Brooks Taylor of Crawford volunteers for Contact Helpline, an organization that reaches out to senior citizens living alone, people with disabilities and to those with emotional needs through regular phone calls. Good work!
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how may we assist you?
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Ann Hilton Buckner
It is a humbling experience to be able to work in Washington, D.C. and to walk on the same floors as our nation's forefathers. Thousands of people travel from all over the U.S. and the world to come and see where some of the most memorable events in American history have occurred. They also come to witness the legislative process that takes place on the House and Senate floors.
Ann Hilton Buckner remembers her first trip to Washington well and recently returned to work as an intern in our DC office. She is a valuable part of our team during the college semester working in our office. Ann Hilton helps support our team when you have a concern or request assistance. "It's been a great experience working for Rep. Kelly," Ann Hilton said. "I love working at the U.S. Capitol and look forward to helping the team meet the needs of constituents through May."
Our office provides internships for college students each semester and during the summer. Our online application is the first step to get the process started.
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a week in pictures
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For more photos from a week in pictures, please visit my Facebook page.
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Melissa Baneck from Olive Branch,
Kenneth Anthony and Paul Binford from Starkville |
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Glen Barlow of Olive Branch and Paula Vaden
with the National Guard in Tennessee
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MS Band of Choctaw Indians Chief
Phyliss Anderson, Ronnie Henry,
Davita McClelland and Sharon Johnson |
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Clay County Supervisors Shelton Deanes,
R.B. Davis, Sheriff Eddie Scott and son Bradley |
For more photos from a week in pictures, please visit my Facebook page.
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STAY IN TOUCH
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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 and Twitter.
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Thanks for reading,
Rep. Trent Kelly (MS-01)
Member of Congress
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