"Rewarding Michael is the wrong message for children."

True, but in a 'feel good about yourself, touchy, feely' society, accepting responsibility takes a back seat. These kids need Kenny Chesney to show them the path.

Well, on second thought, maybe Chesney would do better setting some examples of leadership to the youth of America. Doubtful if he sews Canadian flags to his luggage when traveling abroad. :[

Hmm, taking responsibility for actions. That is a profound statement for some to make!

There are still questions surfacing about what really is/was behind this Boy Scout leaving the campsite alone (unnoticed). Yet it appears that noone is going to be held accountable in that case either, nor in allowing Michael to "sleep in" rather than joining his fellow scouts on a hike. I question the leadership capabilities of Michael's scout troop.

Shalom

Note: WMQX (93.1) has legally changed its call letters to WPAW (93-1 The Wolf) and now hosts a country music format.

"But the father said to his servants, `Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet and bring the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and make merry for this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found."

Neither Michael nor his family will be attending the Chesney concert. They have turned down all media and other offers. Please do not assume facts.

neocon,
Why don't you demand accountability for right wing politicians? Oh, that's right, you're an idiot.

Remember the runaway bride? Seems like she had to pay back some of the costs of finding her.

Reckon Michael's allowance will be withheld to pay for his search and rescue?

;)

That does raise an interesting question, nitpicker. This is a bit off topic, but how SHOULD the costs for search and rescue be apportioned?

In the Michael Auberry case, it would be difficult to charge a 12 year old or his family for the costs. He's a kid and all kids do unwise things from time to time.

In the case of Jennifer Wilbanks, she was adult who was clearly attempting to perpetrate a hoax. Yet some suggest she was psychologically "distressed" and should not be made to suffer further.

Then we have the adult mountain climbers who decide to ascend Mt. Hood in the dead of winter. I guess a case could be made that "the cheese had slipped off of their crackers" as well, but no one is saying that.

All three "rescues" entailed time, effort and money ... in some cases, a great deal of money.

Should the rescuers and the rescue organizations pay all the bills? If not, how does one decide who pays and under what circumstances?

Just food for thought.

Jack,
Good questions. There is a difference between adults and minors when it comes to search and rescue, in my opinion. Not that there should not be a cost passed along, but with children, it is much more of a gray area than with Jennifer Wilbanks or nuts who go skiing when advised NOT to go, then costing tons to search and rescue. Don't know the answer, but would like to see any adult who is guilty of committing a hoax or reckless behavior, have to pay for costs involved in search and rescue.

Sweet pea said..."I question the leadership capabilities of Michael's scout troop".

The kid refused to go on the hike with the rest of the group. What was the scout leaders suppose to do? Carry him? Spank him? (I can imagine the reaction to THAT)
He sneaked off to "hitchhike home" without telling anyone. An uncontrollable kid has no business being with a group such as this.