Good morning.

Bob has already written about this, but as the only uniformed member of the BSA present, I must as well.


It should be obvious to everyone by now that Mr. Trump destroys everything he touches.

Last year was our first "post gay controversy" recruiting year. Locally we did great, and I signed up 10 new scouts plus a leader. Up until last week, I was hopeful for a repeat performance this year, but now I find it unlikely.

As we all know, words matter and actions have consequences. You know where I live; a good lot of my scout leader friends have now issued statements and apologies to their scouts, parents,and communities via Facebook. National's initial statement did no good, and then essentially apologizing to thee tweetstorm made matters worse.

I also think this has affected my wallet. During my retail stints, I have always worn a scout pin as an identifying mark. The day before the speech, I finally decorated my ' tip hat' with some pins and a patch. I had one good day, but after the speech, money has dried up; I'm taking everything off it today to see if that's it.

I joined scouts in 1974 at the age of 8 because my best friend asked me to. 43 years later, and now I wonder what friends scouting has left?