Graham visits Tennessee State Capitol, meets governor

Maylee Graham had what she said was the best experience ever this summer. The pre-teen, who has been getting involved in service work through her commitment to pageantry, was invited to tour the Tennessee state capitol.

“I am so honored and privileged to have been invited by State Representative Paul Sherrell to tour the state capitol,” Graham said.

While visiting the capitol, Graham was able to see the library, which included the Tennessee Annotated Code Books.

“Some of the books referred all the way back to 1801,” she said, expressing her amazement at being able to see laws that were centuries old.

Graham then commented on a book that brought things a little closer to home for her.

“I also viewed the book that officiated White County as an established county in 1806,” she said.

While on her official visit, Graham said she was honored to meet Gov. Bill Lee and witness him signing a bill into law that gives law enforcement some authority concerning the unlawful possession of Tianeptine and adds it to the list of Schedule II controlled substances.

“I also saw the Senate and Representative rooms where votes are cast to pass or deny bills,” she said and then mentioned what might have been the highlight of her day. “Representative Sherrell let me sit in his chair. Who knows – it could be my chair one day!”

Graham said her trip to the Tennessee State Capitol will be one she will never forget.

“There were so many things I experienced while at the capitol that I will remember all of my life,” she said. “Thank you to Gov. Bill Lee and State Representative Paul Sherrell and his lovely wife for their wonderful hospitality.”