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It is important for each circle to make or acquire its own set of Circle Property. These resources add much to the feeling in circle meetings. Property can be acquired over time -- perhaps one or two items per year. Enthusiasm and friendship can be developed among the members while making property. Each circle should accumulate the following items of basic equipment:
The Navigator's Hat is a key element of circle property. It is a highly visible symbol of the central theme of the Adventure Guides program. It signifies leadership. It is attractive to children. The Navigator's Hat should be treated with respect. It should be worn with dignity and pride at all ceremonial occasions. In particular, it should be worn when the Navigator is conducting his portion of the circle's meetings, at Nation campfires, and during Nation events. At large events, the hats make it clear who the leaders are -- newcomers will know who to talk to when they have questions. Like the Navigator's Hat, the Staff is a symbol of leadership and authority. But it also serves another very important purpose. The purpose of the Staff is to provide order by granting a member permission to speak at circle meeting ceremonies. When any member speaks, they hold it in their hands, thereby limiting other talkers to silence. There are no two Staffs alike. This is a product of creative imagination. You may begin with a strong stick found on a circle hike. Members can paint and decorate it in any way they choose, using feathers, beads, leather, or other materials to embellish this piece of artistic delight. A circle drum is an indispensable piece of equipment. The drum should be used regularly in meeting ceremonies. It should be used with care and respect. It should not be considered a toy (but a large well-constructed drum will be an endless source of fascination for the children). A drum can be purchased or constructed. It can be of Native American, European or any other design. Circle participation in making the drum builds a strong feeling of ownership and teamwork. There are several ways to make a drum. One way begins with a wooden nail keg or small wine-cask for the body; the head can be made from rawhide, soaked, stretched, and laced to the body. Totem poles were used by American Indians living in the Pacific Northwest. They were used to delineate the lineage and deeds of the families in front of whose homes they stood. Each was a center-piece for the household where it stood. Your Circle Totem serves a similar purpose. It is a centerpiece at circle meetings and on your table at campout meals. You will see many creative totem designs at Nation functions. Your totem should have a piece for each family in your circle. Each family decorates its own piece. The family brings its piece to Adventure Guide gatherings. The family's piece is added to the totem at the beginning of the meeting and removed at the end. The Circle Banner is carried or displayed to identify the circle at Nation events, special ceremonies, campouts, and public events such as parades. A colorful, attractive banner can be a symbol of unity. Each parent and child should help with the construction and decoration. Many circles create a design that allows new members to add their special touch to it each year. This is a container for holding the circle's valuables. Decorations may be the original designs of parent and child. Beads and paint are often attractively applied. A drawstring pouch can be made using chamois, imitation leather, or heavy felt. But don't hesitate to make up your own design. Pictures of trips, outings, family events, and special activities may be kept in this history of the circle. It will grow in value as the months and years go by. A good scrapbook cover can be made using wood or leather. Drill two or three 1/4 inch holes along one side to accommodate loose-leaf sheets. Use a wood-burning tool to decorate the cover and inscribe your circle's name on it. Leather thongs can hold the book together. This box should be large enough to hold all circle properties, yet small enough to handle easily. It should be a hinged box with a latch. An old foot-locker, painted and decorated will make a very satisfactory property box. This description of Circle Property courtesy of Dan Haley of the Yomechas Federation, Indian Boundary YMCA, Downers Grove IL
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