At a special presentation this morning at Valentine High School, the Valentine agricultural education program and FFA chapter were presented a $10,000 grant for a Torchmate plasma cutter for the classroom. Charles W. Herbster and former Govenor Dave Heineman were on hand for a check presentation. Charles W. Herbster is from Falls City, Nebraska, is a farmer and the owner and Chief Executive Officer of several ag related businesses. The grant comes through the Nebraska FFA Foundation. The new equipment will help teach students about career fields in ag related businesses.
The previous plasma cutting unit was outdated and could have been slightly dangerous. FFA instructor Brent Nollette reported that the new large cutter is state of the art and has allowed students to create unique signs and projects that promote the school and the FFA. Mr. Herbster told the members of the local FFA, along with the public in attendance the “the future of America is in the hands of those in the blue jackets”. He also told the students that “90% of success in life comes from a positive attitude”.