September 6, 2014

Dear Friends,

I have been having the most wonderful time traveling Tennessee's 4th District -- from Lewisburg to Dunlap to South Pittsburg, from Smyrna to Shelbyville to Winchester -- I am listening to the people all across this 16-county district. What I am hearing is that our families are working more than ever and have less to show for it.  They are just trying to be good parents, productive employees and build a better future for themselves and their children.  They are worried about people and paychecks while Washington worries about parties and partisanship and winning or losing political arguments. They are frustrated and fed up and they are ready for a change.  
Loyal, trustworthy and principled is how we have been raised here in Tennessee, and it’s time our district has a representative who reflects these values. 

Yours Truly,

Lenda Sherrell

Lenda was invited by Tommy Davis, the high school's Advance Placement Government teacher, to speak to his students. After the auditorium session, Lenda made a special visit to the AP Government class to participate in a student research project focusing on political campaigns. Lenda had an amazing day at Warren County High School in McMinnville interacting with the students. They asked thoughtful questions, did their research and were well-informed about our unique American democracy. They are our future!

FOCUS ON COMMUNITY ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL STABILITY

Lenda Sherrell made a stop at The Refuge Community Center today. The Refuge is a nonprofit neighborhood resource center offering computer classes, job training, and work placement services to Bradley County residents. Program graduates and members of the community joined Sherrell in a discussion on economic and social stability. 

“The Refuge Community Center works with people in need to achieve stability in their lives, whether through employment, education, health care and or housing. This one-stop shop resource center also provides referral services to other community partners and is another example of Middle Tennessee values. I have learned through this listening tour that when someone in the neighborhood goes through tough times, people in our communities step up — they always have. This organization provides a place for people to find solutions that are specific to their needs,” said Sherrell. 

The Refuge is a partner of and located in the Blythe Family Support Center because of its proximity to East Cleveland, where the income of many of the community’s residents are among the lowest in the region. Staff at the center venture into area neighborhoods to promote awareness, provide family support and create solution-driven initiatives based on needs. 

“These problems won’t be solved overnight but the dedication of the volunteers and supporters of The Refuge is to be commended,” added Sherrell. 

 FORMER MURFREESBORO MAYOR TOMMY BRAGG ENDORSES LENDA SHERRELL 

Former Murfreesboro Mayor Tommy Bragg endorsed Lenda Sherrell as his choice for Congressional District 4 during a Lenda Listens tour stop at her alma mater, Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU).

The popular mayor served 12 years at the helm of the government for Murfreesboro and in his last election won almost 67 percent of the vote. Bragg comes from a family with decades of public service in Cannon and Rutherford counties and in the state legislature.

“I am delighted to have the endorsement of former Mayor Bragg. He offered his support and reached out to our campaign early on. I have always admired Mayor Bragg’s hard work on behalf of the citizens of Murfreesboro. During his three-terms, he oversaw job growth, economic development and strengthened our schools. His style of bridging relations between the city, businesses and educational institutions such as MTSU has served citizens well. I am honored to have the endorsement of someone who took on his family’s tradition to serve the public,” said Sherrell.

OPEN DISCUSSION ON ISSUES AFFECTING MIDDLE TENNESSEE AT MTSU

“Lenda Listens” tour made another at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) and met with students, supporters and volunteers and discussed affecting the community. The event was held at the James E. Walker Library, Room 446, 1161 Alumni Drive, in Murfreesboro.

So great to be back on campus!  The university's pledge "I am True Blue" commits us to practice our core values of honesty and integrity, engagement in community and dedication to reason. Lenda returned to the university where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business education. 

Sherrell, who went on to complete a post-graduate courses at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga and manage million-dollar budgets working for educational and non-profit health care institutions, credits higher education at MTSU and UT with providing the necessary building blocks for her successful career as an auditor and controller.  

“MTSU holds a special place in my heart. I remember the wonderful professors, classmates and people I met on campus – the many friends made and the classes that helped me become the person I am today. As MTSU welcomes its largest freshman class this week, you can imagine how many memories it brings back. MTSU brings out the best in us. Here, professors challenge us to think about who we are, what we want out of life and how we can make our communities better. Which is what brought me back to the campus – back to where it started. Because the skills and academic discipline taught here gave me the tools to live a successful life and achieve my goals in the world of accounting. This time I am back as an MTSU graduate running for Congress.”

Sherrell had an open discussion forum during the MTSU listening tour stop and took questions from the audience. Even as higher education institutions received less funding for the 2014-2015 school year from the state due to lower-thank-expected sales-tax revenue, the university’s President, Sidney McPhee reassured faculty that standards at the school would remain high and urged faculty to make graduation rates a top priority.   

“It is disturbing that our academic community is experiencing a drop in funding. I am here to listen to what’s on people’s minds, what their concerns are and the solutions we can create together to improve the higher education opportunities while preparing our youth for bright futures as we face educational funding challenges,” said Sherrell.

STRENGTHENING COMMUNITIES WITH PUBLIC SERVICES SUCH AS LIBRARIES IN MIDDLE TENNESSEE

Monday, August 25, 10 a.m., Fayetteville-Lincoln County Public Library, Community Room, 306 Elk Ave North, Fayetteville. Lenda Sherrell discusses supporting dynamic communities and the importance of public services. Serving the needs of Lincoln County, the library offers Adult Computer courses, book clubs, children’s programs, and a love of reading with the motto: "Equality. Wisdom. Discovery."

Lenda Sherrell continued her “Lenda Listens” tour with a stop at the Fayetteville-Lincoln County Public Library. Sherrell hosted a discussion on vital services provided by nonprofits in the library’s community room, 306 Elk Avenue North in Fayetteville. About two weeks ago, Lincoln County Budget committee members approved a budget that spared any cuts to the library after discussions earlier in the year to possibly reduce funding.

“Public libraries are an important resource in communities throughout Tennessee. Cutting services would be a penny-wise and pound-foolish decision. This is ground zero for learning and information gathering for youth to seniors and anyone in-between. Parents bring their children to do homework, residents use services such as eBooks and drop in to use computers to access to the Internet. In this economy, the unemployed log on to search for jobs, get tips on how to polish up that resume, write an outstanding cover letter and connect with professionals who can assist them. In addition, people still check out books, CDs and DVDs in this mostly digital age,” said Sherrell. 

A national study by the Online Computer Library Center showed more 4.4 million Americans affected by the downturn in the economy used the library for job-related activities. Libraries also have seen an increase in services and materials used by small businesses and entrepreneurs to develop business plans for start-ups. For many rural families like those in Middle Tennessee, the library offers a way to stay in touch with relatives through social media.

“Even as libraries have demonstrated the ability to meet the needs of residents, they continue to be threatened with budget cuts. We need to ensure residents continue to have access to timely, accurate and relevant data and protect our public institutions and non-profits from facing these risks.”

HIGHER EDUCATION AFFORDABILITY  

College affordability and accessibility were among the education issues Democratic candidate for Congressional District 4 Lenda Sherrell discussed following her tour of Motlow State Community College

“More and more, college students are finding themselves stuck in a vicious cycle. Many will have to take loans to attain a degree and pathway to the American Dream since college graduates tend to earn more those with a high school diploma or less. But the amount of debt can often be debilitating as food, transportation and the cost of renting or house payments add to an already stressed-budget with an economy that has shifted from middle-class jobs to ones that pay a minimum wage even for college graduates,” said Sherrell. “Community colleges such as Motlow State provide a way for students to keep down the costs of higher education but more needs to be done to address student tuition and loans for those seeking four-year degrees.”

Across the country, total student loan debt increased by $124 billion to $1.2 trillion this year. According to a report by The Project on Student Debt, the average 2014 graduate left school with $33,000 in debt — two times the amount from 20 years ago.  Here in Tennessee, the average debt is $21,775.

“There was a time when young people didn’t have to pile on loans in order to obtain a college degree. Ask their parents and grandparents. I remember such a time because I was one of those who didn’t have to,” added Sherrell. “Debt should never be a deterrent to a better future, a better life and the American Dream.”

The cost of higher education has risen four times faster than the Consumer Price Index — 1,120 percent in the last 35 years. While most community college students don’t need to borrow money to pay for their education, 17 percent of students do take out loans for expenses that aren’t fully covered by federal Pell grants. Thirty-seven percent of community college associate degree graduates have federal loans.  

HIGHLIGHT SUCCESSES OF MIDDLE TENNESSEE RURAL RE-ENTRY PROGRAM IN SOUTH PITTSBURG

Lenda Sherrell made a tour stop in Franklin County to discuss successes at the highly-acclaimed Middle Tennessee Rural Re-entry Program, which has dropped recidivism by 50% through job training and work placement services. After the tour, she joined supporters and community leaders to talk about becoming mentors, role models and civic engagement at The Cook’s Market, 21 Chattin Boulevard, Decherd. 

“Thanks to dedicated rehabilitation counselors and Franklin County officials, inmates receive training, coaching and job placement services to prepare them for productive lives once they are released. As a result, the cost of housing inmates drops and they become engaged, taxpaying citizens,” said Sherrell. “This program, with its lowered recidivism rate now serves as a model to other counties including Coffee and Warren.”

Before re-entry into the community, inmates participate in free classes where they learn Microsoft applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, Windows and keyboard techniques to pick up or improve on typing skills, earning certificates from the Tennessee College of Applied Technology in McMinnville, where they are accepted and enrolled as part of the program.

Inmates also learn how to write a cover letter, resume, apply for employment, prepare for a job interview and work on other job readiness skills. College-placement counselors also provide application information for those seeking higher education. In addition, Franklin County brings in human resources representatives from local businesses to serve as guest speakers so they can meet and establish relationships with potential employers before they are released.

“Job readiness skills and a support system are created so inmates have the necessary tools to go on to live a life markedly different from the one before jail. The Middle Tennessee Rural Re-entry program is truly a life-changing experience for many trying to build brighter futures,” said Sherrell. “There is definitely a need as inmates re-enter communities for mentors and role models.”

After an inmate leaves jail, caseworkers serve as a resource while staying in touch with and providing a support system to keep them on the path to becoming a productive citizen.

PHONE BANK TO HIGHLIGHT CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

Civic engagement was the focus of the Lenda Listens tour stop at United Auto Workers Local 1853, 125 Stephen P. Yokich Pkwy, Spring Hill.

Sherrell, a certified public accountant who has managed million-dollar budgets working for educational and non-profit health care institutions, is running to represent voters of the 4th Congressional District. She has been hosting a series of Lenda Listens events across the district meeting with people while learning about challenges their communities face and the solutions residents have come up with to solve problems. Sherrell highlighted civic engagement yesterday when she met with Lorraine Powers, co-founder of an after-school program in South Pittsburg. 

“Civic or citizen engagement means working to make a difference in our communities and promoting a better quality of life through the political and non-political process. No matter what stage we are in life, regardless of age or background, anyone can participate in being morally-minded citizens who recognize they are part of a larger society and have an obligation to learn about issues their communities face and take action when appropriate. Such action promotes a meaningful democracy that has benefited and continues to benefit middle Tennesseans,” said Sherrell.

CHATTANOOGA MAYOR ANDY BERKE ENDORSES LENDA SHERRELL DURING HER LENDA LISTENS TOUR STOP IN MARION COUNTY

Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke and former state senator who represented Marion and Hamilton counties, endorsed Lenda Sherrell as his choice for the 4th Congressional District.  

“I am thrilled to accept Mayor Berke’s endorsement and support of my campaign. As I head to the general election, Andy’s official backing is an important boost to our grassroots-focused effort. Tennessee needs more people like Andy, he could have gone anywhere after graduating from Stanford University but he chose to come home to Marion County, practice law like his father did and become a public servant to give back to the community. I am proud to have his endorsement and even more proud to call him a friend,” said Sherrell.

HIGHLIGHTING EDUCATION VOLUNTEERS

Lenda Sherrell visited the after-school program, Educating Youth Ensures Success (EYES), founded by Lorraine and Monroe Powers. EYES is located at the Moore Park Enrichment Center on the corner of First Street and North Magnolia Ave, in South Pittsburg.

The Powers, both 86, discussed with Sherrell why they started the non-profit program in the 1999 and how the tutoring program assists elementary-age children needing help with homework in English, Math and History. Students from Sewanee—The University of the South serve as tutors to a diverse group of students. What began as an daycare program for busy parents looking for a safe place after school has blossomed into daily weekday tutoring sessions are offered free from 3:15 to 6 p.m. Some days the students are taken on field trips to add to their academic experience.

“Lorraine and Monroe are the heart of this community. Through this program, children have a place to go to receive tutoring whether it’s one-on-one or in small groups. The sessions provided are invaluable there are always students who need support outside the classroom to help close the learning and achievement gap, build good study habits and enhance academic skills,” said Sherrell. “The Powers have dedicated 15 years of their lives to enriching students’ lives. It’s their gift to the community, providing a place for kids to go while getting their homework done.”

According to researchers at the Arizona State University and University of Arkansas, volunteer-tutoring programs showed students who worked with tutors were more likely to earn higher scores on assessments targeting proficiency of words, oral fluency, and writing compared with not tutored.

INVESTING IN MIDDLE TENNESSEE’S ECONOMIC SECURITY BY PREPARING A WORKPLACE-READY WORKFORCE

Lenda Sherrell discussed workforce readiness when she made a “Lenda Listens” tour stop in Sequatchie County. Sherrell met with Dunlap’s Mayor Dwain Land, County Executive Keith Cartwright and Executive Director of the Sequatchie-Dunlap Chamber of Commerce Marlene Basham. 

“Local economies are at risk because we do not have a highly-trained and skilled workforce to meet the needs of employers. We must invest in education that creates a viable pathway from pre-k to college to ensure graduates have the skills that attract businesses with well-paying jobs,” said Sherrell. “We also need to connect employers with educators so our students and youth are better prepared for careers of the 21st Century by emphasizing programs that infuse Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).”

Sequatchie County officials continue to work on recovering jobs lost during the economic downturn by reaching out to businesses to open up shop. Two years ago, when Auto supplier Mann+Hummel located to Dunlap, 925 people applied for 150 jobs. According to 2013 United States Census Bureau figures, 19.3% of the population remained below the poverty level compared with 17% around the state, about 12% had graduated from college compared with 24% in the state, and median household income was $33,181 compared with the rest of the state at $44,140.

“Sequatchie County has much to offer,” said Sherrell. “City leaders are working hard to bring companies here, but there also needs to be a STEM-literate workforce that makes it attractive for businesses with good-paying jobs to want to locate to this part of middle Tennessee.”

AFFORDABLE AND ACCESSIBLE HEALTH CARE IN RURAL MIDDLE TENNESSEE A CHALLENGE 

Lenda Sherrell visited the Community Clinic of Shelbyville to discuss access to health care in rural Middle Tennessee. Sherrell met with health care workers and volunteers.

“This nonprofit clinic is an example of what happens when people come together to help others. It does not charge patients and is funded through donations grants and fundraisers. For low-income and uninsured populations, this clinic is a lifesaver,” said Sherrell.

According to the 2014 state health scorecard released by the Commonwealth Fund, Tennessee ranked 40th out of 50 states. The rankings were based on categories such as access, prevention and treatment, avoidable hospital use and cost and availability of services. Some flags raised by the study: Tennessee has a high infant mortality rate at 8 per 1,000 births compared to the national rate of 6.3; one in five adults went without care because of costs; the state ranks low for dental care as 18 percent of adults 18 to 64 have lost 6 or more teeth; it has a high death rate from complications that are treatable such as diabetes; and is 43rd in “avoidable hospital use and cost.” 

“This study should serve as a wake-up call to our elected officials; people are suffering because people do not have access to care or they cannot afford care. And programs such as TennCare are failing the most vulnerable,” said Sherrell.

The study also found Tennessee received low marks because of the high number of Medicare patients who could have been treated in community clinics such as the one in Shelbyville’s which provides adult preventative care and programs.  

“Hospitals often see patients when they have become quite ill; community-centered care is generally less costly and often addresses a problem before it becomes a medical complication,” said Sherrell, who worked as an auditor for non-profit health care institutions. “But in rural areas, community clinics can be the lifeline so many need.”

ECONOMY AND JOBS IN FOCUS FOR SHERRELL AS SHE HEADS TO FORMER SITE OF BIGGERS MARKET

The state of the economy and lack of jobs in Middle Tennessee was the focus of Lenda Sherrell’s “Lenda Listens Tour” stopped at the Biggers Market, 902 5th Avenue N, in Lewisburg.

Sherrell, a certified public accountant won Thursday’s Democratic Primary for Tennessee’s 4th Congressional District with almost 23,000 votes. While a winner for the Republic primary has not yet been made official, Sherrell continues her grass-roots campaign by meeting with Marshall County local businesses representatives and officials to discuss how to best improve the economy and create jobs. They include: Barbara Woods, former Lewisburg mayor; Ronald Greer, retired supervisor of Heil Quaker Corporation — at one time Marshall County’s largest employer; Don Johnson, business owner; and Joe Brandon, economic advisor to former governors Ned McWherter and Phil Bredesen.

Biggers Market, a family-owned sandwich and gas store, closed its doors in 2011. It had served customers for 29 years but Owner Robert Biggers closed down the store due to the downturn in the economy.

“For many in the community, Biggers Market served as gathering place for people to share meals, listen and visit with friends and neighbors, it was how each found out what was going on. This family-owned business was forced to close its doors after almost 30 years because of the downturn in the economy after Heil Quaker left. I have chosen this site for my listening tour because I want to listen to the people who call Marshall County home, they are the people who hold the key to turning Lewisburg’s economy around,” said Sherrell.

PRIMARY-ELECTION DAY

Lenda wants to hear from the constituents and communities in the 4th Congressional District. She will be traveling the district on her "Lenda Listens Tour" to hear about the issues affecting local communities and talk about the solutions she will champion in Congress.

Lenda's first stop on the tour was Grundy County. She voted at her local polling precinct in Tracy City. After voting she met with Grundy County residents as they voiced their concerns about the direction of the nation and the issues that matter most to them. Lenda reassured them that We Can Do Better and with their support we will have a Representative in Congress that will fight for all residents of the 4th Congressional District.