Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Guest Speaker Emphasizes “Life Lessons”


 
Congressman Keith Rothfus and two office staff met with students from Mr. Aurandt’s Law/Current Events and other students from Mr. Miller’s and Mr. Strittmatter’s classes, as well our NHS students for a “Coffee With Keith” session on Monday, September 23.  Coffee and snacks were provided by Mrs. Darcy Rakar’s (life skills) classroom.  Mr. Aurandt acted as the emcee.  The meeting was the culmination of a one year effort to coordinate a visit by the Congressman to CCHS. 

Representative Rothfus was very open in his presentation noting he “works for us”.  He encouraged students to get involved in the “people’s business”, to work hard, to volunteer for worthy causes, to hold public officials accountable, and to never sell themselves short on anything.  He answered numerous questions from the audience addressing issues such as gun control, our involvement in Syria, and government spending.  He also discussed his family background, what drew him into the political spectrum, and what he hopes to accomplish while in Congress.  He met with several students after the group presentation - questioning them about their future career choices with sound advice on funding one’s post-high school education.  Many had their photographs taken with him.

Importantly, the meeting itself was not about politics.  It was a life lesson, as reinforced by Mr. Aurandt to his students, that they have the potential to be and do anything they want in life, as exemplified by Congressman Rothfus’ story. The feedback from the students has been very positive and we are hopeful this is something we can do on a yearly basis.  We did sweeten the pot somewhat by providing the Congressman with a parting gift of chocolates, a CC t-shirt, and a sleeve of CC golf balls – all within the federal limitations for gifts to a member of the U.S. Congress.