Even in the middle of this campaign, I cannot turn my back on my community. For this reason I have agreed to serve as Vice Chairman for the Second Annual Cigar Night for Scouting. This event is run by the Friends of Hudson Liberty Council, a non-profit group that just does fundraising for, and educational work about, the Boy Scouts of America and their work in Hudson County. I guess that I have become a little "high profile" as a result of this campaign, so I hope my name helps this event.
Now, I know what some of you might be saying, "A cigar night to support Scouts? Isn't that a bit hypocritical?"
I don't think so. First off, it's for adults only. There won't be any Scouts at the event. Secondly, I don't mind working on an event that gives people what they consider to be their money's worth in return for supporting a good cause. If this event is the one thing that gets somebody to support the youth of Hudson County, then by all means I will take their money. Finally, I don't think anyone is going to toss up $200.00 if they haven't already made a conscious and informed decision to participate in this kind of activity. I don't think anyone will be smoking their first cigar at this dinner.
Personally, I'll be going to show my support for Scouting and enjoy a fantastic meal. I don't argue with anyone's decision to smoke, as long as it's made by an informed adult who is prepared for the consequences such a decision brings. Who am I to babysit these adults and tell them right from wrong? If they haven't figured it out by now, I'm not going to change their minds anyway.