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October 7, 2016
Dear Friend,
As Mississippians, we understand the value of holding down a good job. We are some of the hardest working people in this nation. In addition to agriculture, manufacturing is a main driver of our economy. The manufacturing industry has long relied on our strong workforce to achieve production goals.
Governor Phil Bryant declared this week Manufacturing Week in Mississippi because of the important and growing contributions we make through various industries. Our state ranks 9th in the nation in manufacturing employment.
In recognition, this week's newsletter highlights the Airbus Helicopters, Inc. facility in Columbus. Airbus is one of the many manufacturers located in the First District that employ hard-working Mississippians who are on the job to provide for their families and the common defense through the products they manufacture.
manufacturing spotlight
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Airbus Helicopters, Inc. Mississippi Operations, launched in 2003, is an example how one company can contribute to the defense of this great nation. In 2006, they expanded their Columbus facility to build Lakota helicopters, a multi-mission aircraft used by the U.S. Army, U.S. National Guard and the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol.
This company is an asset to our national defense and our economy. Over the years, their Columbus workforce has grown to 277. Close to half are military veterans. The team has produced more than 1,000 aircraft from tip to tail within their Golden Triangle operation.
Earl Walker, Airbus Helicopters Senior Director of Government Relations says, "To be able to build an asset for the Department of Defense; to complete its mission on cost, on schedule and on time and protecting constituents is a win-win situation."
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| Lakota aircraft |
The primary responsibility of Congress is to provide for the common defense. Regularly passing the defense budget known as the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and then providing the funding through the Department of Defense Appropriations Act allows our military leadership to thoughtfully plan. When the Department of Defense can plan, they can provide for our servicemembers, save money, and ensure that facilities like Airbus have the ability to meet their needs. Congress continues to work on getting to final agreements on the NDAA and Defense Appropriations for the year.
I'll have more stories like this in the coming months. My goal is to search for solutions that make government work for you. If you know anyone who feels the burden of federal regulations, Please contact my office.
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how can we assist you?
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Navigating the bureaucracy of a federal agency can be difficult and frustrating. From a veteran who needs help with benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs to a senior citizen who wants assistance determining Social Security benefits or Medicare eligibility, my team and I are here to assist you.
In this week's newsletter, we introduce you to more members of our team who are here to listen and take action on your behalf.
Mike Patterson
In times of war and peace, our nation's servicemembers show their dedication to preserving the freedoms we all enjoy. It is our responsibility to make sure their needs are met and they receive the best of care while on active duty and when their deployment is over. Veterans Services Coordinator Mike Patterson works to simplify the veterans claims process by acting as a liaison between constituents who need help with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). He also makes sure veterans know the services that are available to them.
Mike, a Mississippi native, is a Mississippi Army National Guard veteran of 22 years. He understands the importance of placing veterans in the right hands when they need it most. Mike is a valued member of our team. As a retired Command Sergeant Major, his sense of duty and honor ensure his tireless effort to help veterans resolve their issues. Mike has a strong relationship with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Veterans Services Officers (VSOs) in counties throughout the First District. Come see Mike or call him in our Tupelo Office.
Elizabeth Parks
Building relationships is a top priority for our team. If you have concerns about burdensome federal regulations or how a law may impact you, we are here to listen and to offer help.
Deputy Chief of Staff Elizabeth Parks supports our effort to promote policies that represent First District interests on Capitol Hill. She leads our legislative team and serves as the point of contact for the Small Business Committee. Her legislative areas of responsibility also include defense, veterans affairs, and financial services. Her years of experience working in public policy combined with a genuine concern for Mississippians help to advance our legislative strategies. Her vast amount of experience also helps to resolve issues on the Hill. She cares deeply about our constituents and has a great understanding of the issues. Elizabeth is a key member of our team.
"I enjoy helping people." Elizabeth said. "If I can't get the answer, I'll get you to the right place."
Elizabeth, an Alabama native, has worked for the First District for over five and a half years. She previously served the district in the roles of Communications Director and Senior Legislative Assistant.
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academy day 2016
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Academy Day 2016 is an opportunity for young adults who wish to serve their country as an officer in the United States Armed Forces. Learn more about America's five prestigious military academies Saturday, October 15th on the Mississippi University for Women campus.
Service Academy and ROTC representatives will be on hand to answer questions. This session is open for all students, parents, counselors and educators. No RSVP is required.
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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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