Scout Notes

Northern Advocate, 8 November 1934, Page 8

Scout Notes

by TUAKANA

“SCOUTING” The question is sometimes asked: "What isScouting?” The following is .an endeavour to .supply an answer as simply as possible: By the term “Scouting” is meant the work and attributes of backwoodsmen, explorers, and frontiersmen. In giving the elements of these to boys, the organisation supplies a system, of games and practices which meets their. desires and instincts and is aj; the same time educative. From the boys’ point of view, Scouting puts them into “fraternitygangs,” which is their natural order, whether for games, mischief or loafing; it gives them smart dress and equipment; it appeals to their imagination and sense of romance and it engages them in an active, open-air life.

From the parents’ points of view it gives physical , health and development; ■it teaches' energy, resourcefulness and handicrafts; it puts into the lad discipline, pluck, chivalry and patriotism; in a word, it develops character, which is more essential than anything else to a lad for making his way in life. The principle on which Scouting works is that '.the boy’s ideas' are studied, and he is encouraged to educate himself instead of being instructed. The principle is in' accord with that of the most up-to-date educationists.

From the national point of view the aim is solely to make the rising generation into good citizens. Scouting appeals to boys of every class, and can be carried out in towns just as well as in the country. HORA HORA TROOP. There were 16 Scouts on parade at the Den on Friday night last. A wide game—a combination of Kim’s Game and a treasure hunt—resulted in a very close .finish. On Saturday, some of the boys, under their A.S.M., G. Shaman, did further work on the alterations to the Den, which is now becoming more commodious and den-like. HORA HORA’S PARCHMENT. The. Dominion Chief Scout (His Excellency the Governor-General) has been graciously pleased to affix his signature to the parchment commemorating the foundation of the Ist Hora Hora Group. . In a covering letter, Lord Bledisloe’s private secretary, Sir Cecil Day, wrote that His Excellency “has been pleased to add his signature; to the, parchment, which is a most attractive and skilfully drawn docuhient indeed.’' •