Learning business

For 14 years six area Rotary clubs have sponsored Camp Enterprise, a daylong exercise in the fundamentals of the free-enterprise system.

More than 80 students spent the day making decisions about running a virtual manufacturing business. "This is one of the few exercises where students can sit down and run a company," said Brad Kasten of the Jackson Rotary Club. The business simulation program was provided by Junior Achievement, and organization that teaches business skills and ethics to 8 million students in 114 countries.

In addition to the hands-on learning experience, participating students also had an opportunity to win one of four $500 college scholarships. Students from Jackson High School, Woodland High School, Perryville High School and Saxony Lutheran High School received this year's scholarships.

The participating students are to be commended for showing an interest in how the business world works. And the Rotarians who spent the day with the students are to be commended for providing a valuable opportunity for high school students.