In response to a letter by Virginia Ellenson published March 30th:
Our local Northern Lights Council of the Boy Scouts of America should be very proud of the work their members, leaders and investors do for our kids, community and region. This organization helps guide and direct many young boys and men to uphold an oath to help other people at all times; to stay physically strong, mentally awake and morally straight.
According to the Northern Lights Council 2016 Investor's Report, 141 young men achieved the rank of Eagle Scout last year, providing over 16,140 hours of community service. This doesn't take into account the number of hours given by Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, parents, friends and volunteers outside of Eagle Scout projects. That's a lot of good deeds, good turns, and good moral character being built. As a mom to a Cub Scout, a Boy Scout, an Eagle Scout and as the wife of an Eagle Scout (who will put in a total of 24 years as a leader by the time each of our boys earns their Eagle Scout rank), I know that altruistic acts such as highway cleanups, food collections, community projects, and more are opportunities for kids to learn the intrinsic satisfaction that comes with the act of giving to others.
It is my hope that people can look to the good being done by our local scouts and address any concerns in a way that doesn't condemn an entire organization.
Also, if you happened to slip on your slippery porch while putting food out for the food drive, I'm sorry you hurt yourself. Get better soon.
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Bortnem lives in Hawley, Minn.
