It was very special to have President Smith be our Stake President when Avery left for his mission. We have known him and his family for 9 years, since Avery was 8 years old. He was our Bishop in the Cortina ward when there was only 1 ward in Cortina (now there are 4). He has been an influential leader and friend for Avery and our family. I remember when he was called as Stake President a couple of years ago and Avery said, "he's going to be the one to set me apart as a missionary!"
