In the heart of Tippah County, you'll find a tight-knit family with a passion for lumber. Harold, David, and J.D. Hankins are the proud owners of Hankins, Incorporated. Founded in 1988, the company is a labor of love for the brothers, family members, and their 100 employees. "From the time we purchased the mill, it was our plan to grow the business, and we have," said J.D. "We have a state-of-the-art sawmill, sorter, planer facilities, and three kilns."

High-tech machinery accounts for every inch of wood that enters the facility. The mill has a production capacity of 140 million board feet per year. "Our timber comes from well-managed forests," added J.D.

Madeline White, J.D. Hankins, and Trey Hankins

As a member of the House Agriculture Subcommittee on Forestry, my colleagues and I maintain oversight on forestry and all forestry under the jurisdiction of the House Agriculture Committee. It is an honor to advocate on behalf of Mississippi's First District forest products industry.

Last week, I was proud to join my colleagues on the House Floor in support of House Joint Resolution 61.

House Joint Resolution 61 aims to push back against overregulation that disproportionately impacts small businesses and workers, adding layers of red tape without meaningful environmental benefits. I will continue to be an advocate for policies that promote economic growth and job creation that prioritizes American industry.

To watch my full statement on the House Floor, click HERE.

Hawkeye Industries, a family-owned and operated sheet metal fabrication company, is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. Founded in 1995 by Bryan Hawkins, a Tupelo native and U.S. military veteran, the company has grown significantly since its beginnings.

Starting with just Bryan, two employees, 6,000 square feet of space, and two machines, Hawkeye Industries now employs 32 people, including his wife and three sons. The company has expanded to 55,000 square feet and operates 15 machines, with a total of $9.7 million in manufacturing technology equipment.

Bryan began his military career in the ROTC program at the University of Mississippi, graduating with a degree in business. After completing flight school and four years of active duty at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, he returned to Tupelo. He served in the National Guard for 20 years, flying helicopters. "I wouldn't be here today without the miliary," Bryan said. "It set the stage for this business."

Bryan is also committed to the community and introducing Mississippi youth to the workforce. His company partners with the Community Development Foundation and Itawamba Community College to host NBT Summer Camps, a week-long camp for 12-15-year-olds. During the camp, participants gain hands-on experience in manufacturing, even operating machines to make clocks. "It's important to plant the seed when they are young," Bryan said.

We honor Bryan for his exceptional achievements, his commitment to building the workforce, and his dedicated service to our country.

Altex Tube, a steel tubing manufacturer located on the Steel Dynamics campus in the Golden Triangle Industrial Park in Columbus, recently celebrated its first year of production. The company manufactures black and pre-galvanized steel tubing in a variety of sizes. Altex Tube currently employs approximately 35 people and plays a key role in the economic development of Lowndes County. Team Kelly was present for the celebration, which included a prayer ceremony and a blessing for the employees, the facility, customers, and the future of the area.

Congratulations to Altex Tube on a successful first year and thank you for choosing to operate in the First Congressional District of Mississippi.

General Reed and Chief Master Sergeant Kruzelnick

Aurora Flight Sciences Corporation

Ole Miss Veteran and Military Services

Tate County Council of Governments

Seeman Composites

U.S. Navy 16th Master Chief Petty Officer James Honea

American Legion

Broadcasters Association

Mississippi Credit Union Association