Mark Smedley looks on as wife, Sabrena, is sworn in to County Commission post
photo by Wes Schultz
On the first day of a new County Commission, one of the things to sort out was what to call the new District 7 representative.
County Clerk Bill Knowles inquired of Sabrena Turner, and she said the last name should be Smedley.
Ms. Smedley on Thursday said, "I have been married to Mark Smedley for three years. He is very patient, and I told him I wanted to get through the election with the name I have been known as for years in the community - Sabrena Turner. But now it's time to be Smedley."
Actually, the political newcomer, said most people know her just as Sabrena. She said, "During the campaign, I went against the grain and had my first name in larger letters than my last name in my advertising."
Ms. Smedley said she had known Mark Smedley since 1988 because he was her brother's best friend. The top local realtor, who operates as Sabrena Realty, said four years ago they got placed on the same dragon boat team.
She said, "We got to talking and went out to have a bite to eat. We were married a year later."
Mr. Smedley, who is also a realtor, said, "I was always a single guy and was around Sabrena and her three kids a lot at family gatherings. But it was at the dragon boat races that we started to really talk and get to know each other."
Mr. Smedley was 40 at the time and still a bachelor.
He said, "I waited quite a while and I really got the right one to be my wife. I'm very fortunate."