Raising the profile of Scouts and Guides

PICTOU - Scout and Guide Week has a couple of aims.
The first is recognition of the founders of the Scouts and Guides movement. Scouting was created by Lord Baden-Powell in 1907 and it was incorporated throughout the Commonwealth by Royal Charter granted by King George V in 1912. In 1909, Baden-Powell's sister, Agnes, formed the Girl Guides movement.
"We want to celebrate his birthday (on Feb. 22)," said Scott Murdoch, Scouts zone commander for the county of Pictou.
The month also helps to raise the profile of Scouts and Guides in the county, he added.
A different town hosts Scout and Guide Week activities each year. This time it's Pictou's turn. Events for the week begin on Sunday, Feb. 21, with an 11 a.m. church service at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church.
Murdoch also pointed out that February is Good Deed Month for Scouts and Guides.
"That ties in (with Scout and Guide Week). You can do a good deed for a neighbour, family, friend or stranger. You can do it as a group or as an individual."
Apart from doing good deeds, Murdoch said Scouting offers a lot to those who participate.
"It keeps kids active today and get them out of the basement…It's getting back to the basics of living, not depending on power. It's a lot more fun once you get outside. In the Scouting movement you can go along at your own pace."
Murdoch said Scouting in the county is healthy.
"It could be better. It's holding its own…There's close to 100 members in the county, including leaders and youth."
Murdoch said participants can be as young as five for the Beavers program up to 17 for the Ventures program. He said that anyone interested in becoming a leader can contact him at 922-2805.

Scout and Guide Week
Feb. 21, 11 a.m. Sunday
Church Service, St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, Pictou
Feb. 24, 6:30 p.m., Wednesday
Torch light parade starting at Pictou fire hall
Feb. 25, Thursday
Wear your uniform to school day
Feb. 27, 1- 3 p.m. Saturday
Swimming at Pictou Fisheries Pool