While still in optometry school I became interested in helping children who were not achieving in school. By 1980 I had earned my "Fellow" in the College of Optometrists in Vision Development (COVD). COVD is an organization dedicated to enhancing the vision performance of all people. In addition to working with academic concerns we work with sports vision, strabismus (crossed eyes), amblyopia (poor vision in one eye), and brain injuries. COVD requires ongoing education and peer monitoring to maintain quality vision care. My on-going education emphasizes developmental vision, but always includes courses in eye health, contact lenses and the latest in spectacle lens options.

Ever a glutton for more work, after the Fellow in COVD I earned my Fellow in the American Academy of Optometry (AAO). The Academy is the primary research organization for optometry and strives to assure quality examinations and treatment for all people. Much of my on-going education is at the annual meeting of the Academy.

During our time in Fergus Falls I have been involved in several community organizations. I coached summer swimming while in college and helped Dave Lindig establish the Fergus Falls Flyers program in the early seventies. Both Sheryl & I have been active in our church; several boards and committees. I also have been involved with the Heart O' Lakes Camera Club here in Fergus Falls. I was active in the Izaak Walton League when it was in Fergus Falls and was also on the original committee that lead to the Prairie Wetlands Learning Center.

We have raised two sons. Our older son, Tom, married Fergus Falls native Pam Viger; they have lived in Alaska since 1995. Tom is a homebuilder, North Country Builders of Alaska; Pam has worked part time at their church as director of children's ministries, but is currently busy at home with their children. They have two daughters, Ella and Claire, and two sons, Thomas and Owen. Our younger son went the opposite direction; he moved to Florida in 2001. He works in firearms for the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. He met his wife at work; Erika is in serology. They were married on a Florida beach in 2006.   Family in these locations gives us a great excuse to travel!   

Sheryl and I enjoy traveling, camping, photography, antiques and reading. Sheryl was raised on a farm so in 1996 we moved to a country setting on the edge of Fergus. We are currently trying to expand a native prairie area around our home.

If you are interested in seeing my photos you may view them at iDocs Photo Tours or at my own photo site (www.tssmithphoto.com).