Florida 4-H Hall of Fame

James and Linda Parks

James and Linda Parks have both served the 4-H program for more than 25 years as the owners of the Come See Come Save Farm and Garden Stores in Bradenton. In 1971 James Parks began serving on the Youth livestock Advisory Committee, and he continued as a livestock resource leader to 4-H members speaking at club meetings and promoting workshops. Since 1992 he has directed his efforts toward the 4-H beef & swine projects, providing expertise to leaders and members.  Linda Parks became a 4-H supporter 25 years ago as a project leader for her community 4-H club. They established the first 4-H exchange program in their county. Members learned to appreciate the diversity of people within their country’s borders and abroad while studying their travel destinations.  The Parks have been on many committees and held many offices as volunteers. They are physical and financial supporters of many aspects of the 4-H program and have always stressed work ethics and discipline with 4-H members. James Parks said, “4-H instills a sense of personal worth that can only be achieved through community service and the personal relationships developed along the way. After 30 plus years of being a 4-H leader, active supporter and financial contributor I have realized that it is the satisfaction of knowing that you have in some way helped a 4-H’er along in life, that is a person’s most significant contribution.” He is recognized as an innovative and receptive leader by associates in his industry.  He is a member of many professional and community service organizations including the Florida State Beef Advisory Committee, the Manatee County Farm Bureau, the Manatee County Cattleman Association and the Manatee River Fair Association.  Linda Parks is also a member of many organizations as well. Including the Manatee County and the Florida Cattlewomen Associations. Her 25 years of involvement with 4-H have been a daily passion and whenever possible she is promoting 4-H within the community. She directs families who are new to the community to the county extension office to learn about 4-H and everything the program offers. She is a model for all 4-H youth and adults and her leadership skills have given rise to the establishment of many 4-H clubs, programs and activities. She said, “My involvement with the 4-H program has brought a great sense of accomplishment and personal satisfaction to my life.”