The Lessons of Life

Culpeper Star Exponent

Business Monday

Jim Charapich

July 1, 2013

How much bacon comes from one pig? The lessons of life in Culpeper can be unexpected and very rewarding. The answer to this question was delivered by a student in the 4 H Club when asked by one of the local retailers in Town. Why would a retailer need to know the answer to this question?

It turns out the the 4H Club in Culpeper is teaming up with local business to adopt animals that have been raised as a part of a 4 H program. The effort culminates at the CMR Farm Show beginning July 11th and runs through July 15th. Students in the 4 H program are given the option of raising various animals through the winter and spring months to be auctioned off at the show.

The program is a great way for the students to understand business principles. What does the animal cost. How much feed will it take to raise it to auction. What environment will produce the best result. How will the animal be presented at auction. What will enhance the value to bring the highest bid. The program is a big step in understanding business principles while learning lessons of responsibility in the daily care of the animal.

Students have approached business and community leaders to bid on their animal. Some of the students have been very creative in naming the animals after some popular product brands, attracting higher bids from associated business leaders. Some of the businesses like to donate the animal that they have bid successfully to the local food closet or other food related charity. Some give the animal back to be sold with additional proceeds going to a charity of choice. Some like to have it processed and available in their freezer as locally grown food throughout the year. Some many form a team a make a buy for personal consumption.

Agribusiness is alive and well in Culpeper. You are invited to learn more about the event and opportunity to bid on your favorite animal July 11 - 15. Go to www.CMRFARMSHOW.com for more information. Support your local 4 H and the future of agribusiness in Culpeper. How much bacon does come from one pig?