August 20, 2019
Dear Friend,
As your Representative in Congress, it is my chief priority to make sure that the thoughts and concerns of First District constituents lead to commonsense legislation. It is with this goal in mind that I travel throughout the district, ready to offer a listening ear, whether it is over a cup of coffee or while visiting with many of our citizens in the workplace.
I have spent the August district work period traveling throughout the First District meeting with constituents. Many miles are already behind us and I look forward to more stops in cities and counties until we return to Washington, D.C., in September. Please click on the photo above to see highlights from our time in the district.
On the national front, clearly there is a stark division in Congress on some of the most pivotal issues that are facing this nation. It is our duty in Congress to find common ground in order for America to move forward. Recently, I was able to share my views about a number of issues that are impacting our state and the nation during an interview on SuperTalk Mississippi's The Paul Gallo Show. To watch an excerpt of the show, please click on the links.
Segment One Segment Two
| academy day 2019 - save the date |
I am excited to host the upcoming Academy Day 2019 and to meet young people from the First District who aspire to attend one of America's prestigious military academies. As your Representative, it is a privilege to nominate Mississippians who have demonstrated a commitment to their communities and to our great nation. I enjoy following the progress of those who have received appointments. Recently, we heard from three of our appointees!
Cadet John-David Luttrell
In April, I was pleased to announce the appointment of John-David Luttrell to the United States Air Force Academy. Cadet Luttrell, a Tishomingo County High School graduate, received his boards at the U.S. Air Force Academy Acceptance Day Parade this month. Cadet Luttrell completed basic cadet training in Jack's Valley, CO, earning expert marksmanship status. Classes at the Academy have begun, and while basic training was tough, Cadet Luttrell said that the real challenge is in the classroom. "Life at the academy has been extremely challenging," Cadet Luttrell said. "However, I have made great friends and have found that everyone is willing to go above and beyond to help each other succeed. The Air Force is truly a family, and I am glad to be a part of it and have the opportunity to become the best that I can be. I hope to make Mississippi proud."
Cadet Ben Barulli
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| Cadet Ben Barulli (far right) |
Cadet Ben Barulli, a Southaven native, has begun his first year and is officially a "plebe" at the United States Military Academy at West Point. Cadet Barulli is following in the footsteps of his father who also attended West Point. Throughout his time at "The Point", Cadet Barulli will be challenged to demonstrate leadership abilities through the four pillars of performance: academics, character, physical, and military. "I've enjoyed my time at the academy so far," Cadet Barulli said. "Beast (basic cadet training) is an experience of many firsts and develops a person in a way no other can accomplish. I have discovered a strong sense of unity and leadership among all the people around me. There are difficult times, but I would never go back and change my decision to go to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point."
Cadet First Class Jessica Frederick
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| Cadet First Class Jessica Frederick (on right) |
Cadet First Class Jessica Frederick is a senior at the United States Air Force Academy. Her parents, Mark and Melissa Frederick, are from Monroe County. She reported to USAFA on June 20, 2016. During the summer of 2017, Cadet Frederic participated in the Jump Program at USAFA. This prestigious program involves learning how to jump out of an airplane in two weeks, and is the only program in the world where the first jump is made completely solo. Cadet Frederick is currently pursuing a Behavioral Science and Leadership degree at USAFA, with plans to pursue a career in the Air Force as a Space Officer!
In the words of Cadet First Class Frederick, "Being a cadet at the Air Force Academy is not easy," Frederick said. "The experiences, memories, and friendships that I have made during my cadet career have been incomparable with any other experiences that I would have had if I attended a civilian university. If attending the Air Force Academy is your goal, then do everything possible to try to accomplish this dream! The application process is rigorous, but don't get discouraged and give up. Once you make it to the Air Force Academy, never tell yourself that you cannot do something. As long as you rely on the team members surrounding you, you can accomplish anything. Aim high!"
To learn more about our program, please contact our military academy liaison, robert.smith@mail.house.gov
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| VA-DOD Shared Medical Facilities Act |
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For far too long, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Department of Defense (DOD) have been legally prohibited from building and sharing facilities and equipment that serve both veterans and current servicemembers. In coordination with Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK), I am pleased to introduce the VA-DOD Shared Medical Facilities Act of 2019. To learn more about this important legislation, please click on the link.
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| medline industries, inc. |
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| Photo credit: Medline Industries |
Great news for our workforce and for Mississippi! Medline Industries, Inc., has announced a plan to build a larger Mid-South distribution center in Southaven. This is the latest industrial development project announced in this fast-growing corridor located in the First District. This investment will create 450 jobs which will have a direct impact on the quality of life in North Mississippi. To read about this economic success story for our state, please click on the link.
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| how can we assist you? |
If you are planning a trip to Washington, D.C., make sure to come by our DC office. Cally Perkins, our Staff Assistant, will be the first person to greet you when you walk through the door. Whether it is in person or over the phone, Cally can arrange tours offered through our office and seek answers for any questions that you may have.
Cally majored in political science and law studies at the University of Mississippi. She recently moved from Hernando to DC and is excited about her new role as a Congressional staffer. "I have learned so much in such a short period of time," Cally said. "I truly enjoy my job and the people I get to work with. I am thankful to be here!"
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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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