State Officer, Matthew Klopfenstein, shows off his vibrant personality by letting the Ansonia Officer team carry him, after graciously having lunch with them. Those in the picture include Robert Christman, Madison Evers, Nick Mayo, Brett Campbell, and John Fischer in the back row (left to right). Cierra Longenecker, Katelynn McKenna, Katie Werts, Skyler Marker, Amber Bergman, and Megan Bergman in the front row (left to right).
State Officer Visits the Ansonia FFA
On November 3rd State President Matthew Klopfenstein was kind enough to visit the Ansonia FFA Chapter. When visiting the little school of Ansonia, Matthew made sure to make his presentations as entertaining and light as possible, while still providing thoughtful and informative pieces to inspire his young learners. He not only discussed agricultural opportunities, but he lead students through several teambuilding activities, and introduced what the FFA was all about to younger members. He talked to several students personally, and he made sure to answer their questions and concerns with a kind and gentle hand that would enrich their minds with FFA knowledge. During one of his activities he made the class aware about the fulfillment and importance of goal setting. To demonstrate this importance he made each of the students take a piece of wood and write down their goals upon its surface. Once the goals were written down he let each of the students break the board with their hands to symbolize that they can accomplish and overcome these goals, and frankly any goal they ever set, just as long as they are willing to put in the time and effort. After liberating themselves of the fears of not accomplishing their goals, the students then went on to sign a statement declaring, “Suffer the pain of discipline or suffer the pain of regret” This sign was then hung in the room so that all those who signed their name upon this ideal would not forget their pledge to achieve. Other activities such as this one were presented to other classes as well. Mr. Klopfenstein also attended lunch with the Ansonia FFA Officers. The team found him quite warm and funny. His cheeriness was infectious and they laughed throughout most of the lunch at his silly and lighthearted demeanor. I believe that this visit was very helpful to all who got to meet him, and that he truly made an impression that will stick to most of our members throughout their lives.