November 4, 2016

Dear Friend,

U.S. Representative G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery was a champion for our veterans. His devotion to the care of service members and their families would lead to a long, distinguished career as a U.S. Congressman. As a veteran of World War II, the Korean War and the Mississippi National Guard, no one fought harder to make sure the military had the resources they needed to maintain proper readiness.

Representative Montgomery served in key political roles after his election to Congress in 1966. He was Chairman of the House Veteran's Affairs Committee. He also served many years on the House Armed Services Committee. He may be most well-known for the Montgomery G.I. Bill which offers financial assistance for veterans to go to college after their military service. That's in addition to the funding he was able to secure for the Veterans Administration Medical Centers in Jackson and Biloxi.

The legacy of a man known as "Mr. Veteran" and "Mr. National Guard" around Capitol Hill continues to this day on the Mississippi State University campus through the G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery Center for America's Veterans at Nusz Hall. The center sets the standard for all universities to meet the needs of our veterans.  Representative Montgomery's devotion to veterans will be remembered every time someone walks through the doors of the lobby which also bears his name. His legacy will be on display for generations to come. The 7,500 square foot facility, made possible through the generosity of MSU graduates Tommy and Terry Nusz, was dedicated to this great statesman in early September.

Representative Montgomery's legacy also includes a prayer breakfast he started in the U.S. Capitol during his 30 years in public service. I am honored to attend that class which continues to this day.

create foundation

This was a week to celebrate the contributions made through the Tupelo-based CREATE Foundation. 2016 became the second highest year for contributions in CREATE's 44-year history. This philanthropic organization makes it possible to enrich the lives of Mississippians throughout their 17 county region. The annual meeting recognized those who are working to make a difference in their own communities like the Tippah and Ripley Growing Excellent Together organization which is also known as TARGET.

James Hugh Ray Community Affiliate
Award recipient Bob Glover, TARGET Chairman

TARGET Chairman Bob Glover is among those who made it possible for their organization to award $66,000 in grants to add to the quality of life for residents in Tippah County. Grant money was used to buy computers for the Tippah County Boys & Girls Club and to fund their summer education programs. The organization also awards three teachers of distinction in each school district every year.

United Parcel Service, Inc.

Times have really changed in the shipping industry. We saw that firsthand at two United Parcel Service, Inc. operations in Tupelo. There are more than 800 employees who work in 12 operations in the First District. One of those operations ships out up to 9,000 packages daily.

United Parcel Service, Inc. employees

It's good to see these hard working Mississippians on the job. Every day they begin with stretching exercises before they load up and make deliveries. Shipping and tracking packages has never been more precise. Every movement from the driver to the package is followed using GPS technology.

how can we assist you?

Whitney Porter

A trip to Washington, D.C. is an experience you will not forget. To be able to visit our nation's capital is an opportunity we can all enjoy. Whether it's a tour of the U.S. Capitol or the White House, Whitney Porter is in our Washington, D.C. office to assist you.

Whitney wears many hats. She serves as a staff assistant for our team. She helps to connect our constituents to the services they want or need. This Mississippi State University graduate and Collierville, Tennessee native can often be seen with a camera in her hand taking pictures of our Washington guests.

"I enjoy talking to people who come in and hearing their stories. I always want to know where they are from and what they do back home," Whitney said. "I'm the first person they see when they come in. It's important to make them feel appreciated and special because they are."

If you have a request or concern, our team is here to assist you.

"friend of farm bureau" award

Every two-year session of Congress, Farm Bureau keeps track of voting records of U.S. House and Senate members on key legislative priorities for America's farmers and ranchers. It is an honor to receive the "Friend of Farm Bureau" award along with other members of the Mississippi Congressional Delegation.

Mississippi Farm Bureau President
Mike McCormick

Farm Bureau representatives and farmers from at least nine counties in the First District gathered in New Albany for the presentation. It was good to fellowship with farmers, their families and with others who are on the front lines protecting their best interests at home and in Washington, D.C.

Agriculture is the number one industry in our state. It is so important the voice of our farmers is heard on Capitol Hill. Farm Bureau should be commended for being the vital link between farmers and policymakers. I will continue to advocate for policies that will benefit our farmers through my role on the House Agriculture Committee.

a week in pictures

For more photos from the district work week, please visit my Facebook page.

"Friend of Farm Bureau" event in New Albany
attendees: Representative
Preston Sullivan, Senator Russell Jolly
and Senator Charles Younger

Former Farm Bureau State Board Member
Kelcy Shields

"Friend of Farm Bureau" event in New Albany
attendees: Richard Tollison,
Gifford Smart
and Lin Floyd

UPS representatives Steve Nored
and Jeff Fox

UPS Package tour with Business
Manager Phyllis Raines

Stretching exercises with UPS employees

CREATE Foundation's Annual Meeting attendee
Bobby Martin, The Peoples Bank of Ripley
Chairman of the Board

CREATE Foundation's Annual Meeting attendee
Denotee Martin, Minority PUL Alliance Advocate

Toyota Motor Manufacturing External Affairs
Assistant Manager Kathryn
Ragsdale and Vice President,
Manufacturing
Sean Suggs

Speaking at the dedication of the Rep. G.V.
"Sonny" Montgomery Lobby at the Rep. G.V.
"Sonny" Montgomery Center for America's
Veterans Nusz Hall, Mississippi State University

A cowbell honoring Congressman "Sonny"
Montgomery. In the picture are: Brad Crawford,
Maj. Gen. Janson D. Boyles
and Dr. Mark E. Keenum

For more photos from the district work week, please visit my Facebook page.

STAY IN TOUCH

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.

Thanks for reading,

Rep. Trent Kelly (MS-01)
Member of Congress