Better incentives had many girls from the Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council (GSSGC) setting higher cookie sale goals for themselves this year. Previously, girls who sold the top level of 1000+ boxes of cookies earned an overnight stay at the Lazy J dude ranch in Malibu. This year,GSSGC revamped incentive levels to include: a weekend on Catalina Island for 1250+ sellers and a new Dell laptop for 2000+ sellers.

"The difference in sales was astonishing." said Elizabeth Locke-Thomas, Vice-President of Product Sales. "We had a 42% increase from last year! That's the highest year over year growth in the history of Girl Scouts in the United States. That's amazing! Many of the older girls had never sold more than 300 boxes before. But they set these goals for themselves early on and were determined to succeed. That's really what it's all about--teaching girls that they can achieve their dreams."

For these eighty-nine top sellers ranging in age from 5 to 18 years old, their Catalina Island adventure was an incredible dream come true. The girls planned all their own activities, including hiking, sports and waterfront activities. Because the Campus by the Sea where they stayed provided their own lifeguards, the Girl Scout counselors were able to actually join the girls in the water and share in the fun.

"I was really impressed by everything that was available for the girls to do," said one leader. "Kayaking, tubing, snorkeling--all the equipment was supplied for them. It's something we just never could have afforded to do on our own. I'm grateful that our girls were able to have this kind of experience."

"I think my favorite part of the trip was when the girls went fishing from the pier," said Nancy Perdue, Vice-President of Finance. "One of the girls actually caught a fish for the first time in her life. The look on her face was priceless! Not only did catch her own fish, she cleaned it herself and ate it too. When I talked to her later, she was just glowing with pride at having accomplished something like this all by herself."

"The girls had an amazing time, and they are already making plans to come back next year," said Locke-Thomas. "You'd see them sitting together in little circles, totally unprompted by adults, sharing selling tips and strategies. They are very smart young businesswomen and almost never sell cookies by the box. They always approach people with the question: How many cases can I get you?"

Although the waterfront activities were the hands down favorite among girls and staff, there were other special moments that everyone will remember: the smell of fresh baked bread wafting down to the beach from the campus kitchen, songs and stories around the campfire at night, the skits and ceremonies performed on stage, hiking up the trails and enjoying the amazing view, setting up a makeshift spa and giving each other facials and manicures, and the hilarity that ensued when one of the Council staff was rescued from an overturned kayak and was sure she was being attacked by seaweed.

As they headed for home on the ferry, the girls were treated to another magical moment. They were awed to see a whale surface just ahead of their boat, blowing water through his spout and putting on quite a show. The captain stopped the ferry so everyone could watch. It was the perfect ending to an amazing adventure.

Check out more photos of the Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio 2010 Catalina Island weekend on Flickr:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/gssgcgirls/sets/72157624802813480/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/gssgcgirls/sets/72157624803370184/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/gssgcgirls/sets/72157624680707891/

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio are always up to something interesting. To learn how you can get involved in Girl Scouting, visit us online at http://gssgc.org or call us at 1-800-400-GIRL (4475).

Article by Juno Kughler Carlson
jcarlson@gssgc.org

Photos by Elizabeth Locke-Thomas

When I first joined Girl Scouts as a four-year-old Daisy, I had no idea of the kind of experiences that awaited me. This year, having graduated from both high school and Girl Scouts, I am all the more thankful for all that I have learned from Scouting in the past fourteen years.

What most people don't understand is that Girl Scouts is definitely not just about the cookies. Today, Girl Scouts have the opportunity to learn hundreds of unique and valuable skills, make lifelong friends, and improve the world around them. As a Girl Scout, I have been able to attend leadership conferences all over the country, attend summer camp every year, be a member of the Girl Scouts National Board Leadership Lanes, as well as earn my Gold Award - all opportunities I otherwise never would have had.

However, it is what I have learned from all of the conferences and committee meetings that has truly changed my life. My personal growth from these experiences has provided me with the foundation that I needed to open up, believe in myself, and to build my leadership and social skills. Being a Girl Scout has lit a passionate fire for philanthropy within my heart and has instilled in me a sense of service-learning and civic-engagement. Most importantly, I have gained an infinite number of invaluable friendships with young women, like myself, countrywide.

As a child, I didn't have a great home life and I struggled to make friends in school. However, when all else failed, Girl Scouts kept me plugged into life. It provided me with an outlet for my insecurity and with the chance to make true friends, without the pressures of popularity. Time has proven that these Girl Scouts-created bonds would never fail me. It has been my Girl Scout family that has helped me through all of life's trials, such as losing my father, completing college applications, and even surviving petty high school drama. Being a Girl Scout has allowed me the opportunity to grow from an unsure, introverted child, into a strong and confident young woman. It has provided me with the strength to know that I can overcome any obstacle that I might ever face. I have no doubt that it is Girl Scouts, and all that it has taught me, that plays a monumental role in the person I am today.

I encourage all young girls to stay in Girl Scouts and make the most of all it has to offer. As the Girl Scout Law has set forth, never stop making the world a better place; remaining a Girl Scouts is a decision that will never be regretted. --Marissa Vessels

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio builds girls of courage, character and confidence who make the world a better place. For more information on how you can get involved with Girl Scouting call 1-800-400-GIRLS (4475) or visit us online at www.gssgc.org.

Representatives of Troops 71, 900, 946, 1647 and 1456 from the Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio and Boy Scout Troop 322 attended the unveiling of the Scouting Stamp at Beaumont Civic Center on Monday. The new stamp released by the U.S. Postal Service is a salute to the 100th anniversary of Boy Scouts of America.

Boy Scout Troop 322 opened the dedication with a flag ceremony and Pledge of Allegiance. They were followed by the Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio who sang "Make New Friends" for the officials and attendees.

The scouts were then honored by local dignitaries including Beaumont Mayor Brian DeForge, District 5 Supervisor Marion Ashely, Art Welch for Assemblyman Paul Cook 65th District and Eva Tapia for Senator Bill Emmerson 37th District. All had glowing things to say about the importance of scouting and and the young men and women who grow up in the organization.

"If you've ever been a Scout, you just can't be a bad person," said Beaumont Mayor Brian DeForge. He praised Scouting's emphasis on good citizenship and community service and recognized Boy Scout Troop 322 for the years of service they have given to the city.

The other dignitaries also paid their respects to the Boy Scout Troop with framed proclamations honoring their work. Art Welch presented Scoutmaster Steven Pesante with a special gift from Assemblyman Paul Cook--a flag which had been flown over the Capital specifically for Boy Scout Troop 322.

Scoutmaster Steven Pesante was clearly proud of the contributions his Troop had made to the City of Beaumont. He spoke briefly on the history of Boy Scouting and about how important the morals,values and patriotism encouraged by the organization are to today's youth.

Amanda Bogarad, Community Director for the Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio agreed. "I was so happy that we could be there to show the girls the impact scouting has on major organizations like city, county and state government," she said. "Scouting has a really long and rich tradition of service to others. Both the Girl Scouts and the Boy Scouts take great pride in serving their communities, gaining new skills, making new friends and making the world a better place."

The Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio builds girls of courage, character and confidence who make the world a better place. To learn more about how you can get involved with Girl Scouts call us at 1-800-400-GIRL (4475) or visit us online at www.gssgc.org.

Juno Kughler Carlson
jcarlson@gssgc.org

The Healthy Media for Youth Act (HR-4925) was introduced this year by Democratic representative Tammy Baldwin and Republican representative Shelley Moore Capito. Developed in collaboration with the Girl Scouts, the bill would request that the CDC and other federal agencies redirect some funding already in their budgets towards the purpose of granting funding to non-profits to provide media literacy programs; to fund research on the impact of media on youth; and to fund a commission to look at all the ways in which we can start incorporating healthier images of girls and women into media.

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio CEO, Jessica Lawrence, recently attended a summit in Washington, where she represented Girl Scouts as an advocate for this bill. She also had the opportunity to meet with Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack on Capital Hill to discuss the importance of creating healthy media images of girls. The Congresswoman covers the 45th District in California which includes the whole Coachella Valley area as well as Hemet, Moreno Valley, and Murrieta.

Why is HR-4925 such a critical issue right now? Below are some of the alarming statistical findings prompting this legislation. To read the entire bill click here.

Most 8- to 18-year-olds spend about 10 hours a day using recreational media.

Girls feel pressure from the mainstream media to have an ideal body type, and only 34% of girls report being very satisfied with their bodies.

60% of teenage girls compare their bodies to fashion models and almost 90% of girls say the fashion industry places a lot of pressure on teenage girls to be thin.

55% of girls admit they diet to lose weight.
42% know someone their age who forced themselves to throw up after eating.
37% know someone who has been diagnosed with an eating disorder.
31% admit to starving themselves or refusing to eat as a strategy to lose weight.

54% of girls 3rd through 5th grade, worry about their appearance.
37% of these girls specifically worry about their weight.

30% of girls ages 9 to 15 have sent a sext.
20% of youth ages 13 to 19 have texted partially or completely nude pictures of themselves or someone they knew.

Sexualized messages and images of girls and women also negatively impact boys. These negative effects include boys' developing unrealistic and unhealthy expectations of girls' and women's physical appearance, and may impair their ability to develop healthy relationships with girls and women.

The majority of female characters in children's movies are praised for their appearance or physical beauty rather than their personality, intelligence, or other talents, and are often short-sighted and narrowly fixated on romantic relationships that lack substantial connections or courtships. Girls and boys watching children's programming may vicariously learn that beauty is an essential part of being female and critical for gaining attention and acceptance.

Girls' aspirations are limited as they begin to associate power, acceptance, and success with physical appearance rather than academic or extracurricular achievements.

Between 2004 and 2009, violence against women and teenage girls has increased on television programming at a rate of 120% compared to the 2% increase of overall violence in television content.

Due to the alarming side effects of youths' exposure to negative messages about girls and women in media, it is more important than ever that Congress supports efforts to ensure youth improve their media literacy skills and consume positive messages about girls and women in the media that promotes healthy and diverse body images, develops positive and active female role models, and portrays equal and healthy relationships between female and male characters.

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio helps build girls of courage, character and confidence who help to make the world a better place. For more information on how you can get involved in Girl Scouts, call us at 1-800-400-GIRL (4475) or visit us online at www.gssgc.org.

For most people the words "Girl Scout Cookies" conjures images of little girls selling delicious snacks in front of their local grocery store. But for the Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio, cookies present opportunities for new experiences, the power to help others and the ability to set and achieve individual goals. This year girls who sold 2,000 or more boxes of cookies were able to earn an incredible incentive--their very own Dell laptop computers!

"Everyone recognized this as a fantastic opportunity," said Elizabeth Locke-Thomas, Vice-President of Product Sales. "We had quite a few girls who immediately knew this was the goal they wanted to work towards--and they succeeded brilliantly! Last year we had four girls who reached the 2,000 plus level, but this year we had 26! It truly is a testament to their hard work and determination. There is nothing these amazing young women can't accomplish."

The 2,000 plus cookie sellers attended a Meet Your Laptop pizza party at the Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council's Redlands office, where they were awarded their new laptops. The room was buzzing with excited girls sharing their plans for their new computers. For some, this would be their first family computer ever. Others saw it as an invaluable tool to help them with their studies as they headed off for college. Another would use it to develop her own cartoons and work on social media. Two of the girls had fathers who traveled much of the time on business. The laptops they earned would allow them spend time with their dads through Skype, an application which allows people to make free voice and video calls through the Internet.

"My kids and I traveled back east recently for three weeks with the Grandparents but without Daddy, who we were going to miss so much," said parent and leader Dani Gregory. "Because the laptop Dakota earned by selling Girl Scout Cookies had a camera built in, both Dakota and her little brother were able to see and talk to Dad every night and tell him about their daily adventures. From Tennessee to Washington D.C., they were only a screen away. I saw big difference in how much they missed him even though they were gone longer and further than ever before. I'm very thankful to everyone in Girl Scouts who helped make that loving connection possible for my family. As a leader, I firmly believe in the 'Power of the Cookie' and the many opportunities it opens up for the girls to do things they would never be able to do otherwise."

The Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio helps empower young women by providing them with the opportunities and support to set goals and achieve their dreams. Girls are encouraged to explore their interests, try new experiences, believe in themselves and develop the confidence to share their voice with others. Girls can do anything! To find out how you can get involved with Girl Scouts, call us at 1-800-400-GIRL (4475) or visit us online at www.gssgc.org

Juno Kughler Carlson
jcarlson@gssgc.org

Ever wonder why our counselors have special camp nicknames? Camp director "Turtle" and her assistant "Trumpet" tell us the origin of the camp nickname tradition and why it's such an important part of our culture.

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio build girls of courage, character and confidence who help to make the world a better place. To learn how you can become involved with Girl Scouts, contact us at 1-800-400-GIRL (4475) or visit us online at www.gssgc.org.

Juno Kughler Carlson
jcarlson@gssgc.org

When camp counselors Kathleen Crocker, 21, and Victoria Carroll, 22, attended the Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Wilderness First Aid class at the end of June, they never thought they would actually have to put those lessons into practice. But when an elderly man showed up at Camp Azalea Trails this month, seeking help for his comatose son, the girls' skills were put to the ultimate test.

The man, who appeared to be in his late 50s, had been on a 12 hour hike with his 27-year-old son on the Seven Pines Trail in the San Jacinto Mountains near Idyllwild. Towards the top of the mountain the son, a Type 1 diabetic , began feeling ill and short of breath. Soon after, he lost consciousness and fell into a diabetic coma. The father remembered passing the Camp Azalea Trails Girl Scout camp on the way up and decided to go there for help. Carrying his son, he walked back down the mountain for 5 hours before his body gave out from exhaustion. Carefully he laid his son down off the trail near a creek where he thought he would be safe and continued the trek to the camp, almost two miles away.

Finally the man made it to the edge of Camp Azalea Trails, where he approached the horse wranglers for help. Immediately, camp director Monique Nichols (Turtle) contacted 911 emergency crews, requesting paramedic help and airlift assistance. In the meantime, the Girl Scout staff assembled a rescue team that included assistant camp director Jennifer Thomsian (Trumpet), camp nurse Christina Abraham (Kitty) and camp counselors Kathleen (Triceratops) and Victoria (Hello).

"We are so well-trained and have such trust in each other and our abilities, that there was no hesitation or panic," said Kathleen. "No one freaked out, and we felt confident and calm. We knew exactly needed to be done and what role each person would play in the rescue."

Christina, the camp nurse was positioned at the base of the trail with a walkie talkie radio where she became the primary communications contact between the staff rescue team and the fire department. Kathleen, who is a cross country runner, was selected to be first responder. Her job was to run ahead of the team and carry the glucose needed for the unconscious hiker. Victoria followed close behind with the backboard in tow. Jenn was 15 minutes behind the girls, walking with the father, monitoring his condition, and maintaining radio contact with Christina.

"I never thought we'd actually have to use our first aid training this way," said Victoria. "Suddenly here we were, running up the side of a mountain, but inside I felt really calm and prepared. It was an intense moment, but it felt good to realize I knew exactly what to do."

Kathleen was the first to reach the unconscious young man. She immediately checked his vital signs, paying attention to his breathing, circulation and the color of his lips.

"I was totally focused on what I had to do. In my mind I was following step-by-step each procedure I had learned in our first aid training. I didn't get caught up in fear or worry because I knew I had the skills to deal with the situation. It was my job to help people. I was giving him my very best and that was all I could do."

Once she was satisfied he was stable, Kathleen turned the man on his side to prevent him from choking while she put some of the liquid glucose into his mouth. The sugar immediately helped, and he became semi-conscious, moving slightly and mumbling for help.

In the meantime, the fire department had arrived, but their radio equipment wouldn't work in this mountain area. They stationed their truck at the foot of the trail where Christina, the camp nurse was in radio communication by walkie talkie with the girls. This enabled them to exchange information on the young man's condition. Because of the hiker's condition and the isolated location he was in, he needed to be airlifted to the hospital. The staff rescue team was able to provide detailed directions to the fire department regarding their exact distance from the trail head and direct the helicopter to the best pickup point.

When the helicopter arrived, two of the firemen repelled to the ground one at a time and raced across to where the staff had secured the hiker to a backboard. They checked over the man's vitals and commended the girls on their fast action and professionalism in stabilizing the patient. The young man was then airlifted into the helicopter and transported to the hospital for further treatment.

The staff then followed the father to where he and his son had pitched camp and helped him to pack up his things and carry them back down the mountain. Back at Camp Azalea Trails, they gave him food and drink and printed out a Google map to give him driving directions to the hospital.

Despite all the excitement of helicopters flying overhead, the Girl Scout camp was surprisingly serene. The remaining camp counselors had calmly continued their work with the girls, making sure the various routines and programs continued as usual.

"Our counselors go through intensive training that includes everything from first aid and basic outdoor skills to team building techniques and helping kids deal with homesickness," said camp director Monique Nichols. "Most of these young women are pursuing careers like teaching, counseling or medicine that involve working with kids, so they understand how to help them to feel safe, confident and happy. The most important thing they can do in this kind of situation is to maintain a feeling or normalcy for the girls, so that was their primary focus."

For the staff rescue team, not only did the day's events underscore the effectiveness of their Girl Scout training classes, it also was a good test of the breadth and quality of their equipment. Their first aid kit was well stocked with emergency medicine like the needed glucose. The backboard was professional grade and worked well during the airlifting. Possibly most important of all, the walkie talkie radios the camp had invested in performed effectively when those of the fire department did not. Without that critical two-way communication, it would have been impossible to share important patient care information or direct the helicopters to the proper location.

"We have an amazing team here at Camp Azalea," said Monique Nichols . "It's really comforting to know that our staff has the skills, capability and trust in each other, to handle any emergency situation that might arise."

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio builds girls of courage, character and confidence who help to make the world a better place. To learn how you can get involved with Girl Scouts, contact us at 1-800-400-GIRL (4475) or visit us online at www.gssgc.org.

Story by Juno Kughler Carlson
jcarlson@gssgc.org

Photography and videography by Elizabeth Locke-Thomas

Earlier this month Girl Scouts USA launched its first national marketing campaign in 30 years. The much needed face-lift includes bolder colors, lower case fonts and a sleeker rendition of the traditional logo that give the organization a fresher, more modern look.

The new campaign has a multicultural theme and asks the question: "What did you do today?" The ads feature photos of girls traveling, taking action, sharing adventures and following their dreams. They illustrate the incredible, life-changing experiences scouting offers that girls can't get anywhere else.

Tennis superstar and Girl Scout, Venus Williams, helped kick off the campaign in an ad that encourages girls to chase their dreams.

Are you interested in learning more about the exciting opportunities Girl Scouts has to offer? Call us at 1-800-400-GIRL (4475) or visit us online at www.gssgc.org for more information.

Throughout the annual Girl Scout Cookie sale this year, Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Troop 784 collected donations from their cookie customers through a program called I Care. The I Care program is designed to help Girl Scout troops purchase extra cases of cookies to send to military personnel and local charities.

This year, Troop 784 in Hesperia raised enough funds to purchase 408 boxes of cookies for donation to deploying military personnel and the homeless veteran population.

Tying the project into Memorial Day, the troop delivered half of the cookies in person to soldiers at March Air Reserve Base on May 26. Some of the boxes will remain on base for the enjoyment of soldiers who are preparing for deployment, while others will be shipped in increments to those currently deployed.

During their time on base, Lt. Col. Kenneth Goode invited the Girls Scouts to tour a C-17 aircraft. The girls met an Air Force pilot and his support staff, learned about the aircraft, visited the cockpit, and tried on a parachute.

Following this portion of the visit, the troop took the remaining half of the cookies to needy veterans who live at the U.S. Vets shelter building on base. The girls, who range in age from 7-12, personally distributed the cookies and handmade thank you cards to dozens of homeless veterans at the site. U.S. Vets intends to donate a portion of the cookies they received that day to the neighboring battered women and children's shelter.

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio are always doing interesting things. To learn how you can get involved with Girl Scouts, call 1-800-400-GIRL (4475) or visit us online at www.gssgc.org

Story courtesy of Brook Flagg

When's the last time your kids fought over who got to set the table or wash the dishes? Would you be shocked if you asked your kids to pick up their rooms and they cheerfully jumped to it without dragging their feet? At Girl Scout camp, kids are learning about responsibility and teamwork in a way you might find surprising.

I recently had the opportunity to visit Camp Azalea Trails, a property of the Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council located in the San Jacinto Mountains. From the moment I stepped out of my car, I was struck by friendliness of the campers and staff. You couldn't help but feel like a welcome addition to a very special community.

Each group of girls was involved in some activity: tie-dying handkerchiefs, doing trust building games, singing songs, hiking, doing archery, fencing or horseback riding. There was lots of laughter and fun, and everyone was really focused on what they were doing.

After hanging out with our Girls Scouts for the morning, I realized that what made it all work was the fact that there were very clear rules and expectations at camp.

Everyone had important responsibilities to perform to make the camp function and all took pride in contributing and doing a great job. The girls were really terrific about taking turns and jumping in to help each other when needed. They enjoyed having a routine they were familiar with and rules that felt reasonable and fair. And they obviously loved their counselors.

The Girl Scout counselors were nothing short of amazing. I have never met a more calm and confident group of young women in my life. They didn't talk down to the girls or baby them, but actively listened to them and treated them with respect. I loved their great sense of humor and how supportive they were of each other. It was easy to understand why the campers felt like they were all part of a big family.

Below is a video of Trumpet, our assistant camp director and camp staff trainer at Camp Azalea Trails, talking about the training the counselors receive and what they do to make the campers feel safe and happy. Listening to her, it's easy to understand the special bonds that form at Girl Scout camp and why over 50% of our camp staff return year after year to work at Camp Azalea Trails

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio helps build girls of courage, character and confidence who make the world a better place. To learn how you can get involved with Girl Scouts, call 1-800-400-GIRL (4475) or visit us online at www.gssgc.org

Juno Kughler Carlson
jcarlson@gssgc.org

I have been a Girl Scout for 12 years. Just like every other Girl Scout, I have sold cookies and fall products every year. A few of those years I was the Top Seller. The incentive for the last several years has been "Cookie Dough"; which is like credit for anything in the Girl Scout Store.

I have done very well, and because of this I have spent my cookie dough on everything a Girl Scout could possibly want; from Summer Camp registration, (the best time ever), the cutest outfits, the collector dolls, catchy T-shirts and even books and of course my uniforms. After so many years of doing this I had everything "Girl Scout" I could possibly want. I started saving my 'Cookie Dough' for another year of summer camp. The Girl Scout organization has made this easier every year by going from 'paper money' to a gift card which makes it so much easier to keep track of.

The most exciting thing happened this year. Just as I was becoming a senior in high school, Girl Scouts answered my prayers and made it possible for me to use my "cookie dough" for Jostens. If you do not know, being a senior in high school can be expensive; Cap & Gown, senior pictures, announcements, Yearbook, and most expensive; a class ring.

My parents were worried about money; having two kids in high school and two in college. My Dad recently retired, and my mom works for a school that, due to the economy, had her hours drastically cut. It was looking pretty bleak. the hundreds of dollars that I needed to pay for these items would be there in time for me. There were bills to pay and food etc. that were necessary at the time.

Then I met with my Girl Scout Rep Michele and she talked to some amazing ladies named Elizabeth and Jessica. They made my dreams of the perfect class ring come true. Michele told me that it would now be possible to use my hard earned "Cookie Dough" for these items as well as anything else a senior in high school could get from the Jostens Company. I knew being a Girl Scout was a wonderful thing, but now it meant I could shop for these things that are so much a part of high school memories and that I will treasure forever.

It was so extremely easy to do. All I had to do was bank my cookie dough for a couple of years, (if you have enough from current year, you don't have to do this) and then I told Jessica what I wanted to spend my savings on and she e-mailed me a certificate. I then presented this certificate to Jostens who welcomed it without delay.

I am a very grateful Girl Scout and would like to thank The Girl Scouts organization; not only for these precious mementos, but also for all the years of Scouting that has made me the well-rounded person I am today. As I go off to a University, I will never forget all that I have learned and experienced as a Girl Scout and I hope to pass this on to other young ladies in the future. I will forever be proud to say, "I am a Girl Scout!"

Thank- you again,

Michele Lisa

Ambassador Girl Scout Troop #124

Thanks for the wonderful letter, Michele Lisa! We are so proud of you and all you've accomplished. You are an amazing young woman ,and we wish you all the best as you head off to the University.

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Troop 1673 recently had the incredible experience of sleeping inside the shark aquarium at San Diego's SeaWorld Adventure Camp.

The nine parents and twenty-nine girls arrived in the early evening and enjoyed a private dinner buffet followed by a personal tour of the park. They visited the bat ray pool and learned about the composition of a bat ray, how it swims and how it compares to sharks. The guide showed the Girl Scouts how to feed the bat rays by holding fish in the V of their fingers so the rays could suction it and eat it.

Next they visited the seals and the sea lions and where the girls learned about the differences between the two. Seals are dark in color while seal lions are peppered, and the two animals have different types of fins. Some of the girls had fun trying on seal and sea lion costumes and masks.

Then it was time to learn about the sharks. The tour guide explained about the composition of a shark using a plastic model. The Girl Scouts were able to see actual shark jaws and learn about the three different type of shark's teeth. Knife teeth were pointy and serrated, fork teeth had points on all sides and can-opener teeth had a curved ridge like a can opener.

The guide gave each of the girls a real shark's tooth and beads to make a necklace. She showed them how to make a slipknot around the tooth to keep it secure. Afterwards the girls spent some time at the shark petting pool, where they had the opportunity to pet baby tiger sharks.

Next the group attended the Shamu Rocks light show. The troop was seated in a private area and every girl was given a snack, a drink and a fluorescent necklace to wear. After the show, the crowds left and the girls were treated to a spectacular surprise fireworks show.

Finally the troop gathered inside the aquarium tunnel where they got ready for bed. The bravest moms and girls laid out their sleeping bags on the air conditioner units that lined either side of the shark aquarium. The more faint of heart bunked down in the scaredy cat area with the tropical fish.

"There were quite a few squeals throughout the night as girls would wake up to find themselves face-to-face with a shark," laughed leader Kimberly Romaro. "They loved it."

The next morning the girls had a wonderful breakfast in the Anheuser-Busch Deli and then joined their families for a day of fun in the park. Everyone had a fantastic time, and the girls are already planning next year's Adventure Camp: this time sleeping with the penguins!

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council are always doing interesting things. To learn how you can get involved in Girl Scouts, call 1-800-400-GIRL (4475) or visit us online at www.gssgc.org.

Juno Kughler Carlson
jcarlson@gssgc.org

Back in 2009, the Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio made history with the first special needs Girl Scout troop in the inland Empire. We are so proud of these girls and their leaders!

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio builds girls of courage, character and confidence who make the world a better place. For more information on Girl Scouts, call 1-800-400-GIRL (4475) or visit us online at www.gssgc.org.

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio visit the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum in San Diego for the "Overnight Experience."

Girl Scouts are always doing interesting things. To learn more about how you can become involved in scouting, call 1-800-400-GIRL (4475) or visit us online at

Juno Kughler Carlson
jcarlson@gssgc.org

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Brownie Troop 474 visited the TOMS Shoes booth at the BIG Expo this year and learned about the company's One for One program. With every pair of shoes you purchase, TOMS will give a pair of new shoes to a child in need.

Many children in developing countries grow up barefoot. Whether playing or doing chores, these children are at risk for injury and infection from cuts, sores and soil-transmitted diseases. Often these children are unable to attend school as they are not allowed to attend barefoot because shoes are a required part of the school uniform.

The Brownies were moved by the stories and wanted to help make a difference for other kids. They decided to take a portion of the monies earned from their cookie sales to do their Community Service Project with the TOMS Shoes One for One program.

Each girl ordered a pair of white canvas shoes. Once they arrived, the girls had a "Style your Sole" party with lots of snacks and tons of fabric markers, paints & glitter. The Girl Scouts had a wonderful time and spent several hours decorating their shoes. Not only did the shoes become a beautiful keepsake, they were also a valuable reminder that the simple choices we make every day can help improve the lives of children.

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio helps build girls of courage, character and confidence who help to make the world a better place. To learn more about how you can become involved in Girl Scouts, call 1-800-400-GIRL (4475) or visit us online at www.gssgc.org

Juno Kughler Carlson
jcarlson@gssgc.org

This week we received a beautiful email from leader Bev Kelly who wanted to tell us about John Helsing, an amazing dad who works hard to make his daughters' Girl Scout experience extra special. His daughter, Jolina, is in Junior Troop 900 and his other daughter, Joanna, is in Brownie troop 946.

John is absolutely amazing--always willing to help either troop at a moment's notice! He is a fantastic role model for the girls, offering encouragement and treating them with kindness and respect. He tirelessly shares his time and energy from serving as Cookie Dad and sewing patches on vests to helping the girls make sit-upons to earn their Girl Scout Ways Try-It. John even attended the Big Expo with his girls!

His biggest and most recent contribution was to help the troops participate in the Cherry Festival Parade. The girls were

very excited to make banners and decorate his truck and trailer. John even made a wooden trefoil to put on his truck! The Girl Scouts were thrilled when they won the float sweepstakes award at the parade!

Troops 900 and 946 would like to honor this Super Dad and thank him for everything he does to help make their scouting experience so fun-filled and unforgettable.

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio helps build girls of courage, character and confidence who help to make the world a better place. To learn how you can get involved with Girl Scouts, call 1-800-400-GIRL (4475) or visit us online at www.gssgc.org

Alyssa, a Juliette from the Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio, presented a wreath to honor our country's veterans during the 29 Palms Memorial Day Ceremony.

Juliette Girl Scouts are individually registered Girl Scouts not connected to a troop. Sometimes a Juliette is a girl who is waiting to be placed in a troop. Or she may be a girl who is only interested in certain types of Girl Scout activities, like camping or community service. Juliette scouting is often popular among older girls, who are juggling very active schedules but who love scouting and want to participate in the program.

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio builds girls of courage character and confidence who make the world a better place. To learn how you can get involved with Girl Scouts call 1-800-400-GIRL (4475) or visit us online at www.gssgc.org.

Cans for Critters is the San Diego Zoo's annual recycling drive to raise funds to save and protect wildlife here in the United States and around the world. Since it first began in 1980, the program has raised more than $500,000 to help save rhinoceroses, cheetahs, giant pandas, California condors and many other amazing animals and their habitats.

Each year, participants collect recyclables and then donate the proceeds to the zoo's endangered species conservation efforts. Participants who collect 400 or more recyclables receive a Cans for Critters conservation patch. Other incentives include Zoo or Wild Animal Park admission tickets.

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Troop 1232 collected 5,639 cans, bottles and glass recyclables for the Cans for Critters program.

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Troop 900 made $480 dollars to donate for the Gorillas during Cans for Critters at the San Diego Zoo.

Girl Scouts are always looking for ways to improve their communities and make the world a better place. To learn how you can get involved in scouting, call 1-800-400-GIRL (4475) or visit the Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council online at www.gssgc.org.

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Troop 1124 recently delivered several cases of Girl Scout cookies to Michelle's Place that had been donated through their I CARE program. With I CARE, cookie buyers can choose an organization they would like to gift with their cookie donation.

Michelle's Place was founded in 2001 by the parents of Michelle Watson, a vibrant young woman who died of breast cancer when she was in her early 20s. The organization provides support and resources to women battling breast cancer and educates the community about breast cancer prevention and detection.

Michelle's parents happened to be there for the cookie delivery and were delighted to meet the scouts. They talked to the girls about some of the resources the center offers and the work they do with children of women with breast cancer. They graciously had one of the RNs give the troop a tour of the facility and show them some of the props they use to teach people about early cancer detection.

The RN gave the girls a demonstration of how to perform a self-exam using three prosthetic silicone breasts mounted on a board: one normal, one fibrous and one malignant. Each girl was allowed to feel the demo models and ask questions. Everyone was very surprised at how difficult it was to detect a difference unless you knew exactly what to look for. Many of the adults said they would likely have ignored the changes felt in the malignant breast and not realized there was a problem.

The nurse explained to the troop that girls should first start performing breast exams one week after they begin menstruating and every month after that, one week after menses. It was an educational experience, not only for the scouts, but for the leaders and parents as well. Only one mom in the group regularly performed self exams!

The visit was especially meaningful to Cynthia Bertoldo, the scout mom who was chosen to lead this effort, because her mother had been diagnosed with breast cancer. During her medical struggle, they received wonderful support from Michelle's Place and eventually her mom made a full recovery.

All the Girl Scouts really enjoyed their visit to Michelle's Place. They had a lot of fun with the staff and, best of all, learned the importance of taking responsibility for their health.

The Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio builds girls of courage, character and confidence who help to make the world a better place. To learn how you can get involved with Girl Scouts call 1-800-400-GIRL (4475) or visit us online at www.gssgc.org.

Juno Kughler Carlson
jcarlson@gssgc.org

Troop 1124 participated in the Memorial Day celebration at the Elsinore Valley Cemetery. Each girl manned one of 45 flags positioned around the perimeter of the cemetery. They stood at attention for almost 2 hours while the city honored soldiers from every arm of the military. The Cadettes even led the Flag Ceremony!

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio builds girls of courage, character and confidence who make the world a better place. For more information on how you can get involved with Girl Scouts, call 1-800-400-GIRLS (4475) or visit us online at www.gssgc.org.

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Troop 792 from the High Desert Region recently visited the residents of the Veterans Home of California, Barstow. The girls delivered handcrafted patriotic wall hangers they made to all the residents to honor their years of service to our country.

One of the residents was a lovely woman whose husband had served in the Navy Air Corps. She had been a Girl Scout herself when she was young and was very excited to meet the girls!

The Troop enjoyed their time with the gracious staff and residents and encourage everyone to visit this beautiful facility.

The Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio helps build girls of courage, character and confidence who work to make the world a better place. To learn how you can get involved with Girl Scouts, call 1-800-400-GIRL (4475) or visit us online at www.gssgc.org.

Hi, my name is Courtney Little. I have been a Girl Scout for 12 years and have completed LEAP and the CIT Program at Camp Azalea Trails.

In middle school, every girl needs to feel a sense of belonging. Before I went to Camp Azalea Trails, I didn't really feel that anywhere. I have always had a strong family and a great group of friends, but I never felt that there was a positive place where I could not only be myself, but where I could meet different kinds of people and grow with the help of mentors.

The first minute that I stepped off the bus at Azalea Trails, I immediately felt I belonged. All the counselors didn't just want to learn my name, they wanted to know my interests and my aspirations, they truly cared about me as an individual, and encouraged me to be the best version of myself.

Girl Scout camp is a unique experience because it gives girls the opportunity to get away from their everyday lives and challenge themselves in an environment filled with friends and positive role models. Camp taught me to be independent and responsible for my actions, while making new friends and having fun at the same time.

Because this experience made me feel so special as a person, I decided that I want to give to other girls the experience that I had, and eventually to become a counselor myself.

I know that if I had not gone to camp, I would never have had enough courage and self-assurance to attend college almost 5,000 miles away from home.

To read more about all the great activities that Camp Azalea Trails has to offer visit us online at www.gssgc.org or call us at 1-800-400-GIRL (4475). For information on our day camp programs click here. You may also send your questions directly to our camp director Monique Nichols at mnichols@gssgc.org.

Recently the Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Daisy Troop 111 invited their big brothers and little brothers to join them for a special behind-the-scenes tour of the Palm Springs Fire Station #2. The children were able to walk through the living quarters to see where the firemen eat, sleep, workout and relax between calls.

To show the children what happens when a call comes in, the firemen simulated a nighttime alarm. They climbed into their beds and turned off all the lights. A moment later alarms rang , all the lights flashed on and off and the men had sixty seconds to race to their trucks. The Girl Scouts were impressed by how quickly everything happens!

The firemen talked to the children about fire safety and explained that it was vital for each family to have an escape plan and to establish a safe place where they can meet outside the house in case of emergency.The Daisies learned how 911 calls work and got to meet the dispatchers who handle the phones. They learned how important it was to be able to give your location when calling in an emergency, especially when using a cell phone, because the dispatchers are only able to pinpoint your address from land lines.

Next the children were invited to tour the various kinds of fire engines. They were able to climb into the trucks while the firemen explained the importance features of each fire engine and its purpose. The girls were impressed to see that each truck was equipped with its own computer and GPS system that allowed the firemen to pull up the location of the fire and determine the fastest route.

The Girl Scouts also discovered that there were different kinds of trucks used to respond to different kinds of emergencies. They learned that there was a fire engine whose job was to put out fires on planes. That truck had a special spear-like tip to the fire hose that allows the firemen to puncture through the skin of the plane to quickly put out a fire, without having to try to find an open door.

At the end of the tour, the children were allowed to hold a fire hose to see how fast the water flows when it rushes through. Then one of the moms took over and sprayed the kids while they laughed and ran through the water. Afterwards, the Daisies presented the firemen with boxes of Girl Scout Cookies as a thank you for all they do.

The Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council are always doing interesting things! To learn more on how to get involved with Girl Scouts in your area call 1-800-400-GIRL (4475) or visit us online at www.gssgc.org.

Juno Kughler Carlson
jcarlson@gssgc.org

During July 12 - 23, Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council will be offering a fun and hands on way to encourage all girls ages 11-16 to discover the world of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

Minds for Design Day Camp is held at the prestigious University of California, Riverside Bourns College of Engineering offering girls an opportunity interact with women in STEM, engineer and build their own invention plus experience a behind the scenes adventure at Disney's World of Physics: Properties in Motion at Disney's California Adventure Park.

"Given the under-representation of women in STEM careers, it is critical to encourage girls to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics at the K-12 level to diversify the workforce, provide equal opportunity to women in these fields and to meet the need for STEM professionals in the U.S.," said Brenda Britsch coordinator for National Girls Collaborative Project, "Too many girls and young women never even realize the options that are open to them in STEM fields or are encouraged to participate in STEM-related activities or courses."

Minds for Design is open to all girls. You do not have to be a Girl Scout to attend. For more information contact Camp Director Monique Nichols by e-mailing mnichols@gssgc.org or calling 1-800-400-4475.

Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio builds girls of courage, character and confidence who make the world a better place. Scouting provides fun learning opportunities for young women to help them become the leaders of tomorrow. For more information on Girl Scouts call 1-800-400-GIRL (4475) or visit us online at www.gssgc.org.

I detest going to the gas station. Not only does it cost a small ransom to fill my tank, but nine times out of 10 I simply cannot pull in, pump gas and escape without getting approached for spare change, food, or offers to clean my windows. (Hey, don't judge me. I live on a dirt road.) On more than one occasion I have lectured panhandlers on how disrespectful it is to approach any woman who is traveling alone or with small children.

Then, something strange happened. I became a Girl Scout mom just as cookie season started in January and, apparently, went temporarily insane.

Suddenly, instead of averting my gaze away from people around me, I helped my daughter smear the words "Girl Scout Cookie Express...Get Them Now!" in shoe polish on my car windows.

I no longer started the gas pump and jumped back in the car until my tank was full. Nope, I leaned nonchalantly against the side of my brightly painted cookie-mobile, opened the trunk, loudly moved cases of Peanut Butter Patties around and asked anyone within hearing distance if they "needed" any cookies. I went out to lunch A LOT and always seemed to have an open box of Girl Scout Cookies in view that never failed to draw people to my table to ask..."Is that your car outside?" followed quickly by "Do you have any Thin Mints or Caramel Delights?"

Yes, that was me hanging out with four singing 9-year-olds in front of the grocery store. That was me, dancing the Cupid Shuffle with them in front of the McDonalds in Cajon Pass. That was me, teaching little future entrepreneurs how to make proper change and coax Applebee's customers to get five boxes for $20 instead of three boxes for $4 each.

But I'm not the only crazy one. If you've read this far my guess is you've bought and eaten your share of Girl Scout Cookie goodness from either a cookie booth, or out of the back of one of the many shoe-polished cars (I was NOT the only one, thank you). Were you were the one who flashed your lights behind me on Bear Valley Road to pull me over for cookies? Or were you one of the dozen people who gathered around my car at the bank snapping up Lemonades and Shortbreads like they were boxes of gold? Perhaps you were one of the mortuary employees who knocked on my husband's window while he waited in his shoe polished car at the drive thru.

I could say my daughter and her troop members badgered me into all of these random acts of craziness, or that the hours chaperoning cookie booths was a boring sacrifice I made for my daughter - but that would be a terrible lie. The truth is, I had a blast. I loved spending time with my daughter and teaching her business skills. I loved supporting her and her goal to sell 351 boxes of cookies. I also loved getting to know the other girls who had only been together as a brand new troop since January.

I was very tired and a little sad when the cookie sale ended. My daughter and I stood side by side in the driveway scraping off the shoe polish with expended Arco debit cards. We decided to leave the "Girl Scouts Rock!" on one window as a reminder of our efforts that earned her nearly 1,000 boxes more than her original goal. Thank you to everyone who helped her earn a two-day trip to the Disney Resort this month and a weekend adventure in Catalina this August. You had a part in teaching her that hard work and perseverance can be satisfying and rewarding. See you next January...I'll be loitering at the gas station.

Charlene S. Engeron is an author, free-lance writer, speaker and writing instructor in the High Desert. She is also a proud Volunteer Leader for the Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio.