May 15, 2017
Dear Friend,
Manufacturers come to Mississippi in search of a workforce that will help them meet production goals. Time and time again, hardworking Mississippians prove that decision to be a smart one. Ashley Furniture Industries found that out when they came to our great state in 1994. Last week, we toured the Ecru manufacturing facility and talked with employees. Their loyalty serves Ashley well. They know a good job when they see one.
Over the years, the company has expanded 13 times. They have added manufacturing plants in Verona and Ripley. Their workforce has grown to 3,500 and they're looking to hire more people to help make and ship two million units a year. Ashley is an important contributor to our economy and to the many lives they have touched.
listening to our constituents
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There's nothing more important than hearing from you. That is why I remain committed to spending time with our constituents in face-to-face discussions about the issues. Last week, we traveled throughout the First District. Our top priority was to listen to what you had to say.
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From top left: Oxford citizens,
Ripley Town Hall, Oxford Police
Department, and Ripley meet and greet |
You voiced concerns about healthcare, the economy, immigration, and jobs. It remains a top priority to share your thoughts with my colleagues and make sure they lead to common sense policies that will improve the quality of life in the First District and throughout Mississippi.
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military appreciation week
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Not enough can be said about the important role Mississippians play to protect our nation. Every year, our nation celebrates "Military Appreciation Week." Service men and women sacrifice so much to protect our nation at home and overseas. It is important to remind them how much their sacrifice means to us all. We should also take time to thank military veterans for their service which we did last week in Tupelo.
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| American Legion Post #49 |
While we thank those who have devoted their lives to America, we must also remember those who serve as the backbone of the U.S. Armed Forces - spouses. On Friday, we celebrated "Military Spouse Day." As a member of the Mississippi National Guard for 31 years, this day is a special one for our family as well. My wife, Sheila, has proudly taken on this role like so many others.Their tireless support boosts morale and helps to keep our nation strong.
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trooper of the year
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Congratulations to Sergeant Jared George on being named Mississippi Highway Patrol Trooper of the Year. Sgt. George, a Dennis resident, was honored for his bravery during a hostage situation that happened in February 2016 east of Iuka. Three officers were shot. Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics (MBN) agent and 2011 MBN Agent of the Year James Lee Tartt was killed. Sgt. George's shift was over, but he responded to the standoff to support his fellow officers. Minutes after the shooting, Sgt. George took fast action to get one of the injured officers to a hospital which saved his life.
"I like helping people," Sgt. Jared said. "I couldn't have asked for anything better than this career. It was what I was meant to be."
Sgt. George was unanimously nominated by his peers for this honor. That is a level of trust that must be earned and Sgt. George has done that.
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the congressional award
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It was an honor to present Booneville High School senior Abby Pitts with The Congressional Award for Volunteer Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness, and Expedition/Exploration. Abby earned the Bronze, Silver and Gold Certificates and the Bronze, Silver and Gold Medals.
Abby is an outstanding student who graduated from both Booneville High School and Northeast Mississippi Community College this year. Abby began working to meet the award requirements at the age of 13. She completed 400 volunteer service hours, 200 hours of physical fitness and a five-day expedition. Abby sets a standard of excellence that has made her family and fellow students proud.
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2017 prudential spirit of community award
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It is inspiring to see more and more young Mississippians who take on leadership roles which make a difference in the lives of others. Luke Kelly, an Oxford High School student, is a 2017 Prudential Spirit of Community Award State Nominee. The awards, created in 1995 by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), are designed to emphasize the importance our nation places on service to others, and to encourage young Americans to contribute to other communities.
Luke, a Water Valley native, led a project to create a trail from the University of Mississippi Museum at Oxford to the historic William Faulkner home. Luke, a 4-H volunteer and Eagle Scout, also took on a leadership role to improve a scenic hiking trail in his hometown. He designed an educational activity to enhance the experience for hikers and students.
Luke's parents, Tim and Susan Kelly, were with him and other nominees during four days of national recognition events held in Washington, D.C. recently.
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ripley celebrates 180th anniversary
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The town of Ripley is celebrating their 180th anniversary. Like other Mississippi towns, Ripley has roots firmly planted in agriculture. Over the years, the Tippah County city has grown in population and development.
Last week, city officials gathered with residents to celebrate with a birthday party in the historic downtown. It is great to see their devotion to preserving the memories that have made Ripley a special place to live.
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team America rocketry challenge national finals
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It was an exciting weekend for six Golden Triangle Early College High School students. Members of the Rocket Club came with rocket in hand to compete in the Team America Rocketry Challenge. They have been working hard all year to build a rocket that can climb to 775 feet and return to the ground with its cargo intact - an egg.
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Rocket Club members Alexis Turner,
Georgia Wood, Dakota Oswalt, Douglas
Cockrell, Joe Cane, Jakob Chrest, |
Congratulations for earning a place in the top 101 teams out of a total of 812 teams that entered. Jill Savely and Brandy Burnett, team sponsors, say all of these students are interested in pursuing careers in math and science.
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honoring fallen soldiers
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We continue to honor the lives of service members with ties to Mississippi. These soldiers paid the ultimate sacrifice to protect America. We have submitted the details of their service into the Congressional Record.
SGT John McClellan Smith
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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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| Ashley Furniture Industries Team Members |
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| Booneville High School Student Dylan Dowty |
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Booneville High School Principal Terry King
and Superintendent
Dr. Todd English |
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Jackie McKenzie, Peaches Hoyle, and
Bobby Martin |
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| Ripley Mayor Chris Marsalis and wife Linda |
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| Blue Mountain College President Barbara McMillan |
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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, Twitter and Instagram.
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Thanks for reading,
Rep. Trent Kelly (MS-01)
Member of Congress
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