theordquiz.com

By Kate Wolf
  For the past 37 years, Ord High School’s (OHS) FFA Chapter has hosted an annual Labor Auction of student members as an important fundraising event. This year’s Labor Auction was held Tues., Aug. 26 in the commons area at Ord High School following a delicious barbecue dinner hosted by FFA for families and bidders.
    Some of the earliest examples of FFA fundraising through labor auctions first appear during World War II when local chapters raised money to purchase war bonds. Over time, this evolved into a more chapter focused effort of raise money to support FFA programs.  The auction is a major community event that connects FFA members with area residents and businesses.  The FFA chapter members are auctioned off for their labor for an eight hour period of time with the winning bidder also providing their noon meal.  The work involved might include yard work, child care, farm labor, household or shop cleaning, cutting cedar trees, painting rooms or other odd jobs.
  OHS FFA Chapter Advisor Dave Ference appreciated the tremendous turn-out of parents, members, business partners and community supporters who made the Labor Auction possible.  “What started back in 1990 with the first Labor Auction, averaging $40 per person, has grown into an incredible opportunity for our students,” Ference said.  “This program gives them hands-on experience, allowing them to not only learn valuable skills but also develop trustworthiness and character. These students aren’t just gaining practical knowledge, they are building the kind of reliability and integrity that will set them apart in the future.”
    Prior to the actual auction itself, Gaylord and Kathy Boilesen of Ord were recognized with an Honorary State FFA Degree for their generous contributions to the Ord FFA Chapter over the past 30 years. The Boilesen’s were deeply moved by the award and vowed to contribute $7,500 this year, as well as the next two years, challenging others to match that amount. This three year pledge will amount to $22,500 designated to help pay for the OHS Chapter members to attend the 100 Year Anniversary of FFA in 2028.
  Wolf Auction also deserves recognition for freely volunteering their services for the Labor Auction. Steve Wolf called the chant with Von Svoboda, Joel Maxson and Dave Ference catching bids while Jenny Wolf logged the results. With his unique and individual style, Steve Wolf made this year’s Labor Auction, not only a huge success, but also very entertaining. Von Svoboda also read a poem he had written in honor of the late Harry Walahoski whose presence was sorely missed.
  While there were several call-in bidders, the days of $40 winning bids are decidedly over.  Highest bidders were Kyle and Nicole Wadas who landed Morgan Boden for $1,700, as well as Nathan Wadas for $1,100 and Stetson Lytle for $1,000.  Zangger Popcorn Hybrids purchased the most labor with six FFA members and price tags ranging from $450-$1,000 each.
  FFA members who participated included: (Freshmen) Hailey Winkelbauer, Rayna Kolar, Evie Peterson, Claire Petska, Brayson Drake, Wyatt Waltman, Ellie Boettcher, Jadyn Thompson, Ava Marvicka, Piper Terzoli, Nathan Wadas, Lettie Waterman, Peyton Melnick and Kynlie Wilson; (Sophomores) Mason Bauer, Chance Moudry, Tenley Ramm, Elizabeth Skibinski, Kyptan Scheideler and Mackenzie Zulkoski; (Juniors) Howard Winkelbauer, Avery Bruha, Maddison Waltman, Cooper Myers, Noah Papiernik, Raegan Thompson, Payton Whited, Robert Psota, Jaydon Trejo and Morgan Boden; (Seniors) Cheyenne McCain, Gunner Rice, Garrett Schamp, Trinity Chatfield, Gentry Racek and Stetson Lytle.
  “The funds raised through this auction are crucial for our students to experience opportunities beyond Ord, whether it’s attending District, State or National FFA events,” Ference concluded. “Without your continued support, this chapter would not be what it is today.  As the saying goes: ‘It takes a village to raise a child’ and we are so grateful to have such a dedicated village behind our students. Thank you for being an integral part of their growth and success.  We couldn’t do it without you!”