By C.D. DESALVO
Hays Post

Orscheln Farm and Home in Hays has partnered with Red Brand for years to give money to the Hays High FFA chapter to cover various expenses the organization has throughout the year. Red Brand is one of the most recognizable names in agricultural fencing in the United States and through their “Home Grown” program, provide funds for local FFA chapters of Red Brand retailers.

According to Hays Orscheln manager Shelly Wittman, grass fires in the area last year caused an increase in Red Brand barbed-wire fencing sales.

“This year, our particular store sold more barbed wire than any other store. They (Red Brand) donated a dollar for every roll that was sold,” Wittman said.

Usually, the check that Wittman presents to the Hays High FFA from Orscheln is between $200 and $300.

The check she handed over for $1,072 to Curt Vanjar’s class at Hays High School on Monday is the most has ever been donated.

“We’ve done this for quite a few years. We have never have had that much donated,” Wittman said.

Vajnar, the agriculture science instructor and FFA adviser at Hays High, said the money will be used to help with travel expenses throughout the year.

“This will be used for paying for state convention,” he said. “I’ve got four kids going to Washington Leadership Conference, so it may be part of a plane ticket for a kid. Those kinds of things.”