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ASHEVILLE, N.C. /eNewsChannels/ — It all started when local writer, Bryan Sullivan, co-owner of Write Away, Inc., was writing an article for Carolina-Virginia Farmer on a local chapter of the Future Farmers of America (FFA). He learned that while kids in one class at North Buncombe High School (NBHS) were learning about the basics of lamb production, they had little idea of what happens to the product once it leaves their hands. As a result, he, along with Justin Gillespie, FFA instructor at NBHS, put their heads together and came up with a plan.

The plan included bringing in a local chef, lamb producer, lots of support from the American Lamb Board, and of course – some lamb. The culmination of efforts will result in a one hour and 45-minute class to take place on November 14 from 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at NBHS. .

“The interest in helping these kids learn more about the overall business and marketing side of lamb farming was so well received by not only local groups, but regional and national participants as well,” Sullivan says.

The American Lamb Board, based in Denver, Colo. donated reading materials, lamb-cut charts, posters, cookbooks, stickers and more. All of the materials highlight the importance of how vital it is for farmers and chefs to work together.

Local farmers, Wendy and Graham Brugh of Dry Ridge Farm in Madison County, N.C., will discuss how they raise their lamb and the importance of marketing it to local chefs and farmers’ markets. They will also discuss important business techniques to help FFA members succeed.

Executive Chef at the Red Stag Grill for the Grand Bohemian Hotel in Asheville, Adam Hayes, has agreed to demonstrate lamb-butchery techniques. He will also discuss various cooking techniques and the kids will have a tasting at the end of the class. He, too, will highlight the importance of farmers and chefs working together to ensure the freshest product is attained.

Finally, Border Springs Farm located in Patrick Springs, Va., agreed to donate lamb for the class demonstration.

“We are thrilled to be able to offer this special class to our FFA students,” Gillespie says. “We have also invited our Family and Consumer Science teacher to bring her class in for this special event. It’s a win-win for all.”

Media Contact: For more information, call Justin Gillespie at: 828-645-4221.