Mount Ayr Record-News
Mount Ayr, Ringgold County, Iowa
September 2, 2010

Jim SMITH of Beaconsfield was inducted into the 2010 Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame during a ceremony at the 4-H Exhibits Building at the Iowa State Fair on Sunday, Aug. 22.

A total of 89 Iowa counties participated this year and selected inductees for their outstanding service and dedication to 4-H. Inductees or their surviving family members were presented a certificate by the Iowa 4-H Foundation as they were introduced on stage.

SMITH has had involvement in 4-H his entire life. He was a member of the Tingley Toppers 4-H Club as a young man. He especially excelled in his beef project work. He participated in every aspect of 4-H and achieved the high honor of being selected to represent Iowa at the National 4-H Congress in Chicago. He also received state 4-H awards such as the Lou PLAGER award.

As an adult, SMITH has served on the 4-H and Youth Committee, Extension Council, as a 4-H leader and 4-H parent. He has auctioned the county fair livestock sale since 1969.

His ability to talk with youth, inspire them to do their best, and to put them at ease are a few of his many skills that he utilizes when working with youth. He has provided countless nights of being on sheriff patrol at the county fair as well as other events that youth are involved in.

SMITH is truly an excellent model of what a 4-H volunteer is about. He connects with youth and adults making a difference in their lives on a personal basis, the citation for his award noted.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for the counties and state to recognize and celebrate 4-H volunteers and staff who have shown outstanding service and dedication to Iowa’s 4-H program," said Chuck MORRIS, director of ISU Extension 4-H Youth Development.

The Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame was initiated in 2002 to help commemorate the 100th anniversary of 4-H. A summary of all previous honorees will be on display at the 2010 Iowa State Fair in the 4-H Exhibits.

Transcription by Sharon R. Becker, September of 2010

Jim SMITH is a well known farmer, auctioneer, and volunteer in Ringgold County.

Jim has had involvement in 4-H his entire life. He was a member of the Tingley Toppers 4-H Club as a young man. Jim especially excelled in his beef project work. He participated in every aspect of 4H and achieved the high honor of being selected to represent Iowa at the National 4-H Congress in Chicago. He also received state 4H awards such as the Lou PLAGER award.

As an adult, Jim served on the 4H and Youth Committee, Extension Council, as a 4-H leader and 4-H parent. Jim has auctioned the county fair livestock sale since 1996. His ability to talk with youth, inspire them to do their best, and to put them at ease are a few of his many skills that he utilizes when working with youth. He has provided countless nights of being on Sheriff Patrol at the county fair as well as other events where youth are involved.

Jim is truly an excellent model of what a 4-H volunteer is about. He connects with youth and adults making a difference in their lives on a personal basis.

SOURCE: iowa4hfoundation.org/index.cfm/30678/2367/2010_ringgold_county__jim_smith
Transcription by Sharon R. Becker, October of 2015