Dear brothers Scouts In the introduction of third issue of our Mundus Novus Bulletin, with which we are beginning this year, I would like to talk about a value within the Scout Movement that is very important, the value of the Trust. This important value is embodied in the first article of the Scout Law, formulated by our founder, Robert Baden Powell “Scouting for Boys”: The honor of a Scout is trustworthy. Being trustworthy for a Scout is an every day goal, because we know what is at stake is our honor. Our honor depends directly on us to be trustworthy. Our honor is all that really belongs to us, only each of us can make it grow and be honorable people, where others can trust blindly or completely lose it. Confidence is the result of character and competence, as stipulated by Stephen R. Covey in his book "The Confidence Factor." Both elements are equally necessary to build confidence and even more, to preserve it. Even these two elements are key for us to give confidence to someone or not. We could have the character to make and keep promises, starting with those that we promise to ourselves, but if we do not have enough capacity to carry that to which we commit, we will not be able to build confidence. Imagine that we had to undergo surgery and the doctor in charge, a few minutes before entering the operating room tells us that he is absolutely willing to do everything possible to have a successful surgery (character), but it is the first time that he is doing it and has no knowledge or the necessary experience (competence). Surely in that moment we get up to go in search of a doctor who we could trust our lives. In the same way we wouldn’t trust our lives to such a doctor, even though he or she has all the skills and knowledge to perform the surgery but keeping a non ethical background in his or her professional performance.
others trust us, is to generate confidence in the organizations we belong, whether in our family, our company, our Scout group, our National Scout Organization or our great World Organization of the Scout Movement, what is known as reputation. Reputation is the result of the confidence that inspires everyone who belongs to an organization, regardless of their size. In our hands, consider whether we have the character to build confidence and if we have the necessary competence to achieve it. Let us strive daily to make progress in one and other. Enjoy the satisfaction of being trustworthy when we achieve and strive to preserve. Now begins a new year, resolve to grow each day in the confidence level that we feel towards ourselves and others feel toward us. Be prepared to serve Raúl Sánchez Vaca Regional Director World Scout Bureau Interamerican Region
Building trust begins with us. We have to acquire the character and competency to fulfill the promises we make to ourselves. Once we trust in us and demonstrate to ourselves that we can accomplish what we promise, we can begin to become
trustworthy by others. The next step, once we know that
O. SUB . UMBRA . FLORE
SIE
MPRE LISTO
A NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM PROGRAMME IN ACTION
The heart of the youth programme are not the educational objectives, or areas of growth, much less the badge of progression. The programmecomes to life through activities that allow diverse and meaningful learning experiences for the lives of children and youth. In this first presentation, we wish to share with you an interesting educational experience organized by an area of Scouts of Argentina. This activity is intended to highlight the use of public space in the city (a museum of natural sciences) to carry out an educational activity on non-traditional hours (evening) and overnight. We believe that the use and proper use of public spaces by citizens, is a small contribution that Scouting can make in building responsible citizenship.
A NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM September 2010, Rosario, Argentina. At 8.00 p.m., everything was ready and so we, the pack from Scout Group No. 260 “Juan Pablo II”, arrived at the museum. Cubs and Scout Leaders were received by the staff of the Natural Science Museum “Angel Gallardo” and by the Rovers and Organizers charged with arranging this magic event. Once the rucksacks and sleeping bags had been identified we met in the central hall and we introduced ourselves by singing. After the presentation we were taken on a guided tour by Fabiana and Emmanuel of the museum staff who showed us the exhibits on display. We also went to play in the interactive hall responding to crosswords, studying food chains, learning about biotics and antibiotics, matching animal footprints, identifying animal habitats and much else besides. On finishing these games we divided into groups with the Rovers and Scout Leaders and listened to some remarkable and informative animal tales. We selected some of the characters from the tales and in a plastic work area each Cub created masks of of their selected animal. These masks were later to be used in an evening presentation.
Once completed, the masks were left to dry and while we listened to stories from the museum guides, the Scout leaders and volunteers prepared the evening meal. We ate together and afterwards in a much awaited moment, we divided into groups, the museum lights were turned off and each of us with a lantern and his team together with the volunteers began a game of “nature’s detectives,” in which each group had to answer questions using the lanterns to light-up the show-cases and open spaces of the museum. On answering a clue successfully the volunteers gave us a syllable which was used to create a phrase which at the end of the game we shared with the other teams. All the phrases were to do with care of the environment. When the moment came to put on the masks, we acted out the parts and Akela, Bagheera and Baloo opened the evening proceedings in which we sang, danced and mimicked the animals from the tales At the end of the evening we washed and prepared our sleeping bags but we were not done yet as the museum staff put on a film to send us to sleep. The next day we woke up to a splendid breakfast, gathered our belongings and with much nostalgia said our good-byes in the hope of returning to relive “The night in a museum”. Marcos Gaston Zenzic. Scouts de Argentina – Zone 19 (Santa Fe Sur)
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SCOUTS FROM VENEZUELA HELP PROVIDE AID December 8, 2010: Members of the Scout Association of Venezuela, Ciudad Bolivar, helped to organize and pack approximately 2 tons of food, water, medicine and clothing destined to the states of Mérida , Falcon, Miranda, and the Capital District to help victims of the heavy rains that have fallen in recent days. "With the desire to serve without expectation of reward, let us all help our brother flood victims" were the words of the leader Alejandro Ravage, who together with young people and adults from the Scout Movement helped streamline sending aid to those in need.
José García. Garcia appreciated the assistance extended so selflessly by the young people. The aid-event was attended by the Don Bosco, Simón Bolívar and San Francisco de Asis Scout Groups. http://www.eldiariodeguayana.com.ve/noticias.php?po s=3357
This activity was carried out at the premises of Civil Protection (CP) in front of Ruis and Páez hospital in Ciudad Bolívar under the supervision of the CP Director,
SCOUTS OF PARAGUAY Building Citizenship
On November 19th, 2010 in the National Congress of Paraguay, there was held a conference: "Scouts, Building Citizenship”, which had as its keynote speaker Hector Carrer from the World Scout Bureau Interamerican Region. This activity was sponsored by the National Congress through the Chamber of Deputies together with the legislative office of Congressman Dr. Dionisio Ortega, Chairman of the Committee on Education, Culture and Religion. The conference was part of celebrations for the fiftieth anniversary of the Scout Association of Paraguay. The audience for the conference was made up of members of the Chamber of Deputies and Senators, the Ministry of Education, Culture and Religion, residents from local municipalities, political parties, universities, the Superior Institute of Education, civil society organizations, authorities, leaders and youth of the Scout Association of Paraguay, students and the public. In opening ceremony of the conference, the Minister of Education, Dr. Luis Alberto Montaner Riart, expressed his interest “To define policies designed to facilitate strategic partnerships with youth organizations such as
the Scout Association of Paraguay, targeting students in their final year of secondary education as potential Scout leaders." It was exciting to watch young scouts and no-scouts occupy the seats that usually are occupied by representatives of the people of Paraguay, carefully following the exposure of a subject so close to the aims of Scouting. It is noteworthy that the whole conference was broadcasted live by the website of the National Scout Organization: www.scouts.org.py . This established a true milestone in the history of communications for the Scouts of Paraguay. After the event an exhibition was organized by Scout groups at the reception of the Congress.
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THE SCOUT UNIFORM The origin of our uniform After the camp at Brownsea in 1907, B-P remarked: “It is necessary to create a uniform for the boys so that it does away with class differences and allows for the wear and tear of life in the open air.” And, based on his vast experience in these matters, he came up with a design which was adopted by the Scout movement worldwide. Accordingly, after taking into account local climatic conditions and national traditions each group makes its own adaptation of the design of their Scout uniform. The adaptations made to the original design by BP have remained unaltered in most cases, the short trousers and the neck-scarf distinguishing our uniform from those of other civil and military organizations. What does the uniform represent? In general, the uniform is distinctive of a special service and is worn so that the wearer can carry out his well-defined activities, duties and obligations. In this our uniform has a similar function to other uniforms. Nevertheless, our uniform has a much more significant meaning: It is the symbol of the ideals and activities of outdoor character building. It is the symbol of our ideal and the bearer of the emblems which represent the strength, dedication and commitment of every Scout. Is it the outward sign of character building? The Scout uniform spreads the ideals of the Scout Movement by the example of each member who wears it. The Scout uniform represents discipline, competence, spirit and purposefulness in action and thought creating healthy mind and body in the young. We are conscious of being part of the largest youth organization in the world and take pride as brothers and as a friend of everyone else. Wherever the Scout finds himself his uniform identifies him and at the same time acts as a visiting card. The uniform embodies the spirit of equality; it is the same for each social class and generates bonds of friendship not only within their homeland but Scouts across 160 different countries. Whoever wears the uniform is developing his character and future ability to serve.
Remembering life in the open air. The structure generates self-esteem, flexibility to undertake different actions as well as sports, health and hygiene. Are we Scouts because we wear a uniform? In summary, the uniform is an essential part of Scout traditions and activities. It is not absolutely necessary to sport the uniform to be a Scout as in truth the really important issue is to participate at all times in the spirit of the movement. Nevertheless, the wearing of the uniform epitomizes the exercise of our ideals. In fact, Baden-Powell said: “…it is not so important that the Scout wears the uniform as long as he has his heart in his work and abides by Scout Law.” Nevertheless, given the Scout movement’s spirit, he should aspire to wearing it.
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PARIS OPENS ITS DOORS TO ROVERS OF THE WORLD.
Portugal, Italy, the United Kingdom, Spain, Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, Finland, Romania and Bolivia. Paris, December 2010. From 22nd to 25th April 2011 French Scouts and Guides will be presenting some of the greatest events within its history and a revolutionary new departure within the Scout movement. “ A Future Paris” is how our European brothers have named the occasion, an event which has the objective of presenting 104 projects organized by the Rovers of the world. The event will take place at the Cultural Centre “104” located in the centre of Paris. This centre is well-known as a centre for promoting contemporary artists. As part of the plan for the event the SGDF made an official announcement of the event on 2nd and 3rd October to the different International Commissions for the European Region and fraternal associations. The guests numbered 30 with 10 different nationalities. The gathering was made up of Scouts and Guides and included, amongst others, representatives from
The invitations have been or are now being sent out to National Scout Organizations throughout the Interamerican Region.. Our French brothers however, would like any Rover willing to contribute with ideas for a better world to participate. The cost is 270 Euros but the SGDF have decided they will pay 140 Euros to those interested which means we will have to pay 130 Euros per person.(This includes participation, transport during the event, food and materials). Furthermore, you can now make direct contact with different groups of Rovers in France to find out how after the event you can participate in discovering more about France and its culture. Alternatively, you can mail the event organizers: “We are waiting for you in Paris!!!”
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WITHOUT ASKING ANYTHING IN RETURN. A friend of mine named David, received a car from his brother as a gift. One day, when David left his office, a street urchin was walking around his shiny new car admiring it. “Sir, is this your car?" He asked. David nodded. “My brother gave it to me.” The boy was astounded. "You mean it did not cost you anything?” Since then, David knew what the boy would say. He would say that he wished he had a brother like that. However, when the boy said that he wanted to be a brother like that, David was shocked. David looked at the boy in astonishment, and impulsively he asked, "Would you like a ride in my car?" “Yes, I’d love that!” replied the boy.
He ran in and a short time after David heard the boy coming back, but not quickly. He carried his disabled brother and sat him on the first step. "See John. There it is, as I told you.” “This man’s brother gave it to him and someday I'm going to give you one just like it, so you can see for yourself all the pretty things.”
After a short ride, the boy turned and with sparkling eyes said, "Sir... Do you mind if we could pass by the front of my house?" David smiled. He thought he knew what the lad wanted, to arrive home in a great new car and show off to his neighbors, but again David was wrong. "Can you stop by those two steps?" asked the boy.
David got out and placed the sick boy in the front seat. The older brother, with sparkling eyes, jumped after him and the three began a memorable ride. It was that very day that David understood what God meant by: It is more blessed to give than to receive.
Have a great day and do not forget: Give Hope ... We are what we think. We are what we decided to be. Decide to be men and women of courage. Our environment needs it desperately!
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ICC AMERICA, A NEW FACE, A NEW ADVENTURE December 2010, ICC AMERICA will start 2011 with the right foot and have three big surprises which we want to share with you. THE CURITIBA WORLD SEMINAR This seminar is very important either because it is the first time that South America is hosting an ICC World Seminar or because it could be the start of growth as an organization, due with this seminar the ICC could have much more impact on the different associations. This event will take place from the 7th to 9th of January (days before the World Conference of WOSM) and as the World Conference, will be held in the magnificent city of Curitiba, the Retreat House of Our Lady Do Mossunge will become the historic place for all the Scouts Brothers, because it will be there where the seminar will be developed, the cost of the seminar is 250 USD, which includes materials, food, among other things. If you are interested please visit: www.cic-america.org, or contact the regional
office ciceamerica@gmail.com, cheer! It is never too late. THE NEW FACE OF OUR WEBSITE, This is another surprise, considering how to improve the image of the ICC AMERICA as an institution, and the importance of digital communication, ICC AMERICA decided to present a completely different image from what it was before, this time thinking a lot in the agronomy of the system, and above all in the users. In this new and fast web site, is the simplicity is mixed with the power of information, being intuitive and convenient for users. At the site, the predominance of yellow color can be seen, which has become a characteristic of this organization. Is important to emphasize, that any data from the previous webpage hasn’t been erased, in fact, the new one has been enriched with much more information, with a unique organization that makes browsing more pleasant, but why keep talking if you have the opportunity to see it: www.cic-america org. PRESENTATION OF NEW CHAPLAIN, After the departure of Father Donald Hummel as the Regional Chaplain for job reasons, ICC was looking for a new chaplain with the same charm as its predecessors. The search was difficult but finally could find a suitable person. Who is it? ... (Surely you are wondering), well, this is a surprise to be revealed at the seminar or in the next edition of the newsletter. So remember: ICC AMERICA, New Face, New Adventure. Daniel Nisttahuz
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THE GREEN PLANET CARBON IMTPRINT Climatic change provoked by the greenhouse gas effect (GEI) and in particular CO2 gas is the principal danger of our times. There is considerable evidence that the major contribution to global warming is the result of human activity. These days practically everything we do (movement, food etc.) and the things we possess and use (consumer products and in the home etc.) require energy all of which contribute to emissions in the atmosphere. From this perspective, the CARBON IMPRINT can be a measure of an organization’s contribution to social responsibility and an element in a population’s awareness of sustainable social measures. With this initiative it is possible to aspire to quantify GEI emissions in equivalent CO2 emissions resulting from our daily and commercial activities. This analysis takes into account all human activity (from the acquisition of primary commodities to waste management) leaving to consumers to decide what to buy based on potential harm depending on the way it is used. The carbon footprint is an excellent indicator of environmental impact. However, this only measures one aspect of sustainability, namely, the use of fossil fuels and emissions associated with greenhouse gas effect. While it is of vital importance to the world to confront these challenges as oil production and climatic change peak, there are a number of other aspects to sustainable development. The ecological imprint goes beyond the need to measure potential human impact on climate change and the use of fossil fuels to allotting land and water to provide primary materials and cultivation so as to counter contamination and waste produced by the population. The resources and management systems used by existing technology have included the loss of biodiversity, excessive fishing, desertification and unknown costs of environmental damage to the structure of society.
provide more work and greater opportunities in a number of countries. It would also lead to respect and improvement of the biodiversity; the protection and betterment of natural habitats; reduce animal cruelty and preserve the beautiful, the rare, the diverse and the abundance of all that is precious on this the planet. The planet is a gift to our children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and on down to future generations. It depends on us as individuals, families, communities, groups, businesses, religions and countries to decide if we are going to do something or wait upon events and the consequences which will follow. The clock does not stop. The good news is there is an organization with 30 million members across the globe, numerous parents, businesses, leaders, politicians, diplomats, engineers, scientists and powerful people among the membership. It promotes leadership, group cooperation and self-reliance among committed citizens around the world with innate understanding of nature and love. It is called the Scout Movement. The Scout Movement has a well developed ethical sense and is actively working in restoring ecological balance. This is not only a commitment but also an example to millions of young idealists. This is a matter of great importance to our youth. Unite your home city with other people and organizations and you will discover that all that you do now will have less environmental impact now than it would have done before and what is more it can be proven. Let us build a better world together! Based on work done by the web Hope in the World Scout Conference on the island of Jeju, South Korea, in 2008.
A comparison of the ecological imprint to available resources provides an indication of sustainability. An ecological imprint greater than the per capita ability to provide implies the current percentage of consumable resources and waste generation cannot be maintained. In the same way, the comparison over time of the trend can be used to measure the rise or fall in sustainability. What would make for a better world? Less hunger, fewer hurricanes and typhoons, more food, better hygiene and improved medical care. This would lead to better education, the end of poverty, greater gender equality, less epidemics and more trade which would
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SUMMER, WINTER AND SKIN The sun is essential to our lives. In the summer we enjoy camping, going to the beach, rivers and the countryside or in countries where the climate is cooler the energy it provides encourages other activities. For those exposed to the sun through camping, excursions, sports or spend long periods in outdoor activities great care is required to protect the skin. The sun’s rays can be dangerous in winter as well as the summer. Furthermore, winter sun on high mountains can be especially dangerous as the radiation increases by 10% for every 100 meters of altitude. The snow also reflects 85% of the sun’s rays. It is for this reason that a day’s skiing or a simple mountain climb can be more dangerous than a day at the beach. A day’s outing in a cold climate not only exposes one to sunburn but without care the sun’s rays can damage the health of young skin. This situation can also act against the immune system facilitating infections such as shingles. Still more serious for people who spend a lot of time outdoors, the sun’s rays can even produce changes in DNA and produce skin cancer, a symptom of which is melanoma. In winter as in summer, the whiter the skin and the greater the number of hours in the sun, the greater the danger of incurring one of these afflictions. However, whatever your skin you need products capable of nourishing it from the wind, the sun, and the deceptive cold. It should also be protected from the wet for in the case of skiers, those spending a day at the beach or swimming pool or a week-end camping as the combination of wet and perspiration detract from the
protection. The hands, the nose and the lips are always exposed to the rigors of the elements which affect natural hydration causing cracks and dryness. Although you have taken the right steps, your skin needs special attention during the winter and summer. The cold and wind cut, irritate and scar and it is for this reason it is always right to apply hydrating and nourishing cream after a shower, especially if you have been engaging in sport or outdoor activity. In the summer it is also important to avoid exposure to the sun between 10.00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. as during this period the surface reflects the heat. Do not forget water, sand and snow reflect more tan 80% of the ultraviolet rays. It is also necessary to protect oneself during cloudy days as the rays penetrate the clouds. Apply sun protection with FPS (sun protection factor) at 15 or higher over all exposed parts thirty minutes beforehand and reapply two hours later or after a shower. Avoid the sun if under medication which produce photo sensitivity. Avoid artificial bronzing products. Lamps and solar beds for cosmetic purposes can produce irreversible skin defects. Educate minors and adults to take preventive steps when outdoors. If you take children to camping be sure to take protective measures for the skin even though the climate may be cold and above all never expose babies of 8 months or less to the sun under any circumstances.
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THE WORLD SCOUT CENTER “…here among the mountains, in the beautiful valley of kandersteg…”
After the success of the 1st World Scout Jamboree in 920 Baden-Powell had a dream – why can’t this go on forever? The dream was for a Permanent Jamboree. After a series of fortunate and unlikely events, the dream of a World Scout Centre was realized. 88 years later, it is the job of the 160+ staff that rotates through each year to continue to realize this dream. Tucked away high in the Swiss Alps is Kandersteg International Scout Centre World Scout Centre. Every year over 12,000 Scouts from all over the world visit the Centre and take part in over 140 activities on offer, many of them guided by other Scouts. Baden-Powell’s dream was not only for this permanent mini jamboree, it was for Scouts
to come here and live their dream - whether it be climbing a mountain, making new international friends or learning and experiencing new things - they could come to Kandersteg and do it. The exchange of culture, of ideas and of friendships that International Scouting brings will truly enhance your view of Scouting and of the world – we think the best way to get involved is with a visit to Kandersteg. Why not bring your group for a camp? We can even organize tents and equipment for you. Want to learn to ski? Come and stay inside during winter. Why not see some more of Europe while you’re here, or visit some other European Scout Centre’s. Lot’s more information about staying, eating and enjoying the mountains on our website www.kisc.ch Or, join us as a member of our Short Term Staff for 3 months. Volunteer in all areas of the Centre and enjoy living in the mountains. All of your food and accommodation is included! www.kiscstaff.ch has more information and everything you need to know.
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SCOUTS FROM THE INTERAMERICAN REGION
INVOLVED IN AN INTERESTING SCOUT ACTIVITY IN SAUDI ARABIA Leaders from the Interamerican Scout Region participated in the eighth pilgrimage program of the International Union of Muslim Scouts (IUMS) last November. It was held on November 23rd 2010 in Mecca and Medina, Saudi Arabia; more than 60 scout leaders and scouts from various parts of our region where present. During the pilgrimage program, Scouts and leaders visited historic sites in Mecca and Medina, the mosque in Maddinah and also visited the printing of the holy book of Islam (the Koran). There was a tour to Jeddah, the commercial capital of Saudi Arabia, an addition to the Scout-realted activities.
Scout Leaders who participated in this program came from the National Scout Organizations of the following countries:United States, Canada, Malaysia, Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Yemen, Kenya, Syria and Scouts from other various countries of Interamerican Region.
SCOUTS OF PANAMA IN UNICEF CAMPAIGN The United Nations Fund for Children (UNICEF) started the filming of the campaign "I can be more, if you give me the opportunity." The goal of the campaign is to raise awareness about the importance of adolescents in society and how to demonstrate the opportunities that young people have today to make Panama a better place. The campaign, which officially begins January 1, 2011, is created entirely by young people. It is integrated with advertising, publishing, multimedia and adolescent participation. It is called "My Vision" and it will run until August next year, in parallel with the International Year of Youth. The Scouts are joining this campaign to highlight our values. addresses the general legacy and Scout doctrine, so that together "We give the opportunity."
Transmitted in this way, it
Also part of the campaign are the National Association of Scouts of Panama, Civil Society Organizations such as Casa Esperanza, the Girl Guides of Panama, the Movement New Generation, Rotary Club North, Groupe Kol Sherit, IDEMI
JOIN - IN - JAMBOREE
It is one of the most memorable and significant event for Scouts all over the world The World Scout Jamboree. The event brings together a large number of Scouts from around the world. But even so, there are millions of Scouts around the world that do not have the opportunity to live this wonderful experience. For them Join-in-Jamboree was created, which aims to enable all those who do not find it possible to reach the World Scout Jamboree in Sweden, the opportunity to also feel the spirit of Jamboree. Activities have been prepared, based on the World Scout Jamboree activity program and other issues related to this great camp. These activities will occur during World Scout Jamboree, giving the opportunity for thousands of young people to follow and feel the excitement of the Jamboree. Join-in material-Jamboree will be available for download in January 2011 from: www.worldscoutjamboree.se
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Visit: www.lacvox.net
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This newsletter was made by the contribution and the efford of:: • • • • • • • •
Luis F. Bethancourt Ramón Guerra Scott Teare Gabriela Calderón René Franco Marcos Gastón Daniel Nisttahuz Kandersteg International Scout Centre
IN MEMORIAM Mrs. Máxima Maldonado, mother of our brothers Scouts Germán and Rolando Rocha, National Scout leaders of the Scout Association of Bolivia. Teacher Elena García Medina, mother of our brother scout Elena Revello, national leader of the National Scout Association of Panama.
Mr. José Atilio Monico Cortez, Leader Scout Unit of the group 14 in El Salvador.
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