Mansfield School Blog

By: Lexi Sherman

Western Wright County Commissioner Mike Sherman, below, checks out a road. “When people call about a road, I go look and make sure it’s bad and see what’s wrong” he said. “Then I call the boys and explain to them what to fix. I receive phone calls about roads about five times daily. This is just one of the many roads I’ve had to look at.”

In a room filled with delegates of the Wright County Association, the new Western Wright County Commissioner Mike Sherman was sworn into office along with many other officials on Dec. 31. “I am hoping to make a change in the community by repairing all of the old roads and most popular roads in Wright County. I also appreciate everyone’s support and everyone that voted for me in the election,” said Sherman, a farmer and auctioneer from Hartville.
“It’s always interesting after an election to see if change will really happen. With these officials it will be difficult to tell if there will be a difference until they actually start working,” said English teacher, Caroline McGinness. Change is happening already in the county. For example, the Mansfield square is under deconstruction.
Some local residents are hoping that these new local officials will consider some of their thoughts. “Lets hope these new officials put the people first, and fattening their wallets second,” said Bob Cubellis, high school math teacher. There is a Wright County web site where people can post their own opinions on county government.
Many people are thinking about politics. Besides just local officials there were also more new officials. “Happy days again. Jay Nixon, Obama… things are looking better,” said Roger Wood. Nixon was sworn in as governor on Jan. 12.
Some citizens plan to support the new officials wether they supported them in the last election or not. “I didn’t support all the newly elected officials, but I plan to support them now wether I like them or not. I am amazed that their were no fights while Obama was being sworn in,” said John Hinsley, science teacher. There have not been any reported physical injuries due to the results of the election in Wright County.
“The local officials and state officials will try their hardest to do what’s best for the community. The politics work hard and they don’t get enough credit for it,” said graduate Josh Pyle. Pyle voted for the first time in the 2008 primary and election.
Another new official is Tony Dugger, elected state representative. Dugger was previously the Wright County clerk. Some local residents say that he deserved the chance at a promotion. “It’s time Tony Dugger had a promotion out of the county office,” said librarian Kay Goss. Dugger won the election  by over 4000 votes.
Life in the Sherman house cheered when election results came in. “I checked the Wright County web page until the results came in. From the hotdog campaigning to the door to door card greetings it was tuff but it was worth it. My dad has wanted to be the commissioner for many years now, and I think he deserves it. Me, my brother, and sister helped him campaign and showed as much support as possible. The outcome was great and I hope he succeeds with all of his future plans and responsibilities,” said graduate Kati Sherman, the commissioner’s older daughter. She left for college after the primary election.
“Our house held many local residents on election night. I was excited that Mike won because he worked hard, the constant working is challenging but he handles it well,” said Tami Sherman, the new commissioners wife. Tami stays home during the days to answer phone calls and help Mike around the house.
“I enjoy the new job and plan to do what’s best for the County, my home life is a lot different now but I try my best to include the kids in family activities,” said  Mike Sherman. He works every Monday and Thursday in the office.
Tron Sherman believes that the life of a politician is stressful. “My dad can handle  a lot of pressure from citizens, but handles it well. He respects everyone in the community and tries his best to help out. He really wanted to win the election and campaigned hard daily, he succeeded with becoming a politician and I think he’s doing very well. I am hoping the these next four years will go smoothly for him so he can move forward with politics.” Tron helped with the campaigning at the Norwood Farmer Day. He also participated in many local activities to help with the campaigning.