The Golden Link - July/Aug 2018

Golden THE

LINK

July/August 2018

The Official Publication of Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council | Volume 44 Issue 3

Get ready for a new Girl Scout year!

Fall Product Program Starts Sept. 22!

President of the Council and Chair of the Board Jean Janssen Chief Executive Officer Mary Vitek Chief External Affairs Connie Chavez Visual Brand Manager Joanne Pastalaniec

Troop #114035 learned a lot at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences open house. See more photos on Facebook and on page 37.

Mission Statement GSSJC: Girl Scouts builds girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place.

Pluralism Statement Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council is a pluralistic movement, committed to understanding our similarities and differences, building relationships and promoting a dialogue of acceptance and respect. Each individual involved must uphold the tenet that Girl Scouting is for all girls Circulation The Golden Link is published five times a year. It has a circulation of more than 44,000. The Golden Link is also available online at www.gssjc.org. The Golden Link reaches 26 Texas counties: Angelina, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Hardin, Harris, Houston, Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Newton, Orange, Polk, Sabine, San Augustine, San Jacinto, Shelby, Trinity, Tyler, Walker, Waller and Wharton. To report address changes or if you have problems receiving The Golden Link call Customer Service at 713-292-0300.

Deadlines Deadline for submitting items is the first of the month two months prior to publication. GSSJC does not accept responsibility for unsolicited materials. Send news and photographs and Scrapbook photos to communications@sjgs.org.

Advertisements Advertising rates are available by calling 713-292-0384. Advertisements are accepted in good faith that all the information is correct.

Acceptance of advertising does not reflect endorsement of services or goods by the Council.

The Golden Link is published five times a year

by Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council, 3110 Southwest Freeway, Houston, TX 77098 713-292-0300 The Golden Link is also available to read online at www.gssjc.org Copyright Š2018. All rights reserved.

Please recycle this publication.

Contents July/August 2018

4 4

From the Top Shop News Are you ready for the Fall Product Sale!

See the inside back cover for more information.

Special Feature 5

Are You Ready for Girl Scouts?

Features 10 11 12 13 13 14

Alumnae Group at SFA Many Faces of Girl Scouts Camping Badges for All Levels Ode to Girl Scouts 2018 Annual Recognition Event Gold Award Girl Scouts

Activities

15 Weekend Camp Activities 16 Archery 16 Backpacking 16 Canoeing 16 Environmental 16 Fine Arts 16 General Activities 20 Health 20 High Adventure 21 Highest Awards 21 History 22 Horseback Riding 22 Sports 23 STEM 25 Travel 26 Health And Safety Weekend On the cover: Troop #21721 traveled to the University of Texas Austin for the Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day and the Girl Day STEM Festival.

Columns

28 Adult Trainings 34 Around Camp 35 Moment in History 36 Philanthropy 38 Troop Program Ideas 39 Service Projects

Council Scrapbook Page 37

Sign up for Health and Safety Weekend August 3 – 5.

See more information on page 26 July/August 2018 l The Golden Link

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What a year it has been for the Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council (GSSJC)! The visit from Hurricane Harvey in the fall was followed by a rejuvenated spring filled with another successful Cookie Program as well as the rodeo parade and our win of Reliant’s boot decorating contest. I am so proud of the girls that advanced at all levels to wrap up the school year. Now, resident Dee Hinkle and day camps are introducing our Chair of the Board and membership to new skills and new President of the Council friends. Soon, it will be time to start thinking about plans for the upcoming year. If Early Bird is any indication, 2018-2019 is going to be a great year!

As you begin planning for the upcoming year, do you know where to go for help? GSSJC has a Customer Service department committed to providing you quality assistance. Customers can be girls, volunteers, parents, prospective members, donors or anyone who needs help or information about Girl Scouting.

Questions and concerns are captured in the customer relationship management software from the moment you call. So if you have a question, give them a call at 1-800-392-4340 Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. and on Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. or email them at customerservice@sjgs.org. The friendly voice on the other end of the line will either respond to your inquiry or record the details and pass them to a subject matter expert who will follow up in a timely manner.

Now that you know how to get help with questions, do you know where to go to get the materials you need for the upcoming year? Now is a good time to try on last year’s uniform and see if it’s time for a bigger size! Whether you need uniforms, books or supplies, they are all available in the shops at our service centers.

To serve our membership, GSSJC maintains shops at eight locations throughout the council. The largest is in the Program Place for Girls next to the Girl Scouts at 3000 Southwest Freeway.

If that’s not convenient, there are shops in Stafford, Beaumont, Westside, the Bay Area, Lufkin, Imperial Valley and Lake Jackson.

Locations and hours of operations can be found at girlscoutshop. com/san-jacinto-council. If shopping in person is not convenient, you can also get uniforms and supplies delivered right to your home by mail. A wealth of Girl Scout merchandise is available through the online shop.

Now that you know where to get answers to your questions and where to get materials, there is one more important thing left to do before fall-training. It is always good to start the year off feeling confident after attending training sessions that are crammed full of useful information! There are helpful online sessions available at www.gssjc.org/volunteerbasics and additional in-person training sessions available starting in July. Adult training schedules can be found at www.gssjc.org/activities. Watch The Golden Link for additional adult training opportunities throughout the year.

I hope you all enjoy the slower pace of summer and that our girls have a wonderful time at their summer activities. Fall and the start of our new program year will be here in the blink of an eye!

From the

TOP

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Girl Scout Shop News SHOP CONTACT & CLOSINGS For shop locations and hours, please visit girlscoutshop.com/san-jacinto-council Shop hours can change due to emergencies, weather or other factors. Please call before driving long distances.

Bay Area 281-282-6077

Lake Jackson 979-297-5556

Beaumont 409-832-0556

Lufkin 936-634-4688

Houston 713-292-0247

Stafford 281-670-5982

Imperial Valley 281-447-8870

Westside 281-822-4250

Heading to camp this summer? Day camp and summer camp packs are available. They include themed water bottles and mascot, plus a backpack and more. The 2018 camp packs can be purchased when you register for your camp session, at the Houston Girl Scout Shop, online at girlscoutshop.com/sanjacinto-council or via email at gssjcshop@sjgs.org.

Office Closures: GSSJC offices and shops will be closed July 4 and Sept. 3. Several shops close or have shortened hours for the summer. All will be closed for one day for inventory. Check out hours online or call before you go.

New Leader Must-Knows!

Are you a new Girl Scout leader? Here are four things you need to know for July and August!

1 2 3 4

Keep in touch with your troop through the summer so your girls stay engaged with Girl Scouting. Some troops meet just once a month over the summer or gather for one or two fun activities, like a day of water games or participating in a neighborhood Fourth of July parade.

Have you renewed your troop for 2018-2019? If not, head to gssjc.org, log in to your MyGS account and renew your members under the Troop tab.

The Fall Volunteer Conference is a great way for new and seasoned leaders to get ideas for troop meetings. It is also a fun way for new leaders to see what camp is like and to network with troop leaders for across the Council. This event takes place in early November – watch gssjc.org/ activities for a registration link.

Fall Product Program is an easy way to earn money for your troop. Troop Fall Product Sales manager trainings start in August. Keep an eye on gssjc.org/fallproduct for complete program details soon.

Special Feature

Are you ready for the new Girl Scout year!

First things first, have you renewed for the new year? If not, stop what you're doing and and head to gssjc.org and click on MyGs to get this year going.

Get to know your digital assistant – the Volunteer Toolkit

The Volunteer Toolkit (VTK) is a digital resource that supports troop leaders and co-leaders, making the process of running a troop easier and more efficient. Check out some of the toolkit’s top features below.

Through the VTK, troop leaders can: • Plan the troop’s calendar year • Email parents with one click • View the troop roster, renew girls’ membership, and update

their contact information • View Daisy, Brownie and Junior Journeys and badges to

plan for troop meetings • Customize meetings by troop year with other badge and Journey options

• Access the VTK as a multilevel troop (troops with a mix of girls in Daisy, Brownie and Junior levels)

• Explore individual meeting plans that show a breakdown of every meeting, including a list of the materials needed,

and editable time allotments for each activity within a meeting • Record girls’ attendance at meetings and their badge and Journey achievements

• Add council or custom troop events to the troop’s calendar • Enter the troop’s finances • Easily locate resources, such as Safety Activity Checkpoints • Access activities that include a “Get Outside” option,

which provides alternative outdoor options What about parents?

Parents can access the VTK to see what their girl’s troop or group is doing (e.g, meeting information and which badges and Journeys she is working on). Parents can also view the troop’s finances.

Finance tab updates By the way, we’ve rolled out the VTK's Finance tab to meet your troop’s needs for annual financial reporting! New features provide the ability to: •

• • • • • • • • •

Access instructions and links to helpful council financial documents Enter your troop’s income and expenses in detailed categories View your troop’s finance summary (automatically calculated) Add detailed notes on your troop's finances Timestamp and auto save information, so troop leaders and co-leaders can both work on the financial report and see who last saved the information Add your troop's bank information, including the bank name, branch, last four digits of the account number, and authorized signers for the troop’s checking account Preview before submitting the troop financial report Indicate your troop’s status for the next year (returning, merging, disbanding, or unsure) Indicate your communities name and number Attach any documents you wish to send (such as supporting bank statements and receipts)

Once you submit your troop's finance report, parents will have a read-only view of your income, expenses and financial summary.

Try it out!

Log in to VTK by visiting gssjc.org and logging in to MyGS. Then select the Volunteer Toolkit option!

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Special Feature

The 2018-19 Girl Scout Bucket List Check the box on some of this year’s most exciting events and activities! Make the most of your Girl Scout year by seeing how many events and activities you can complete by the end of the Girl Scout year. More Girl Scout events and activities for you and your troop can be found at gssjc.org/activities. □ Bust a move with the Green Starlettes □ Learn something new at Brownie Magic □ Stay overnight with your troop at camp □ Begin your Bronze, Silver or Gold Award project □ Learn how to save a life in a GSSJC First Aid badge workshop □ Invite a friend to your Girl Scout troop meeting. □ Complete a community service project with your troop □ Sell enough cookies to join the CEO Club □ Celebrate World Thinking Day with your troop □ Learn a team sport in the GSSJC Girl Scout Soccer Program □ Show your thanks at Adult Recognition Event □ Visit Camp Misty Meadows and make a new horse friend □ Spend a week at summer resident camp □ Make new friends at day/twilight camp □ Raise money for your troop with the Fall Product Program □ Tell someone why you love being a Girl Scout

The best way to start your Girl Scout year is participating in the Fall Product Program

Why Product Sales Matter

When you told your friends and family you were joining Girl Scouts, we bet they immediately asked you about your Girl Scout Cookies! And who can blame them? Those Thin Mints are delicious, not to mention refreshing, when you pull them out of the freezer in July!

But the Girl Scout Cookie Program is about a lot more than the cookies we sell – in fact, we have TWO product sales each year, and both directly benefit the troops who participate.

Here is a little info on both, why they matter so much, and how they fit into your Girl Scout experience.

Our Product Sales programs

GSSJC hosts two product sales each year. From late September to late November, girls can participate in the Fall Product Program. This is a friends and family sale where girls sell delicious nuts and candies as well as magazine subscriptions. Troops earn 25% of the sale from each nut or candy item sold and $2 from each magazine subscription.

It’s a great way to earn start-up funds for your troop right away.

From January to March, GSSJC holds its annual Cookie Program (which turned 100 in 2017!). Girls take initial orders from cookie customers in January, then deliver orders in early February. Troops are also encouraged to boost their sales by participating in cookie booths from mid-February through late March. In 2017, 60 cents of the proceeds from each package sold went directly back to the troop. Plus, girls are learning five valuable skills they’ll continue to use for a lifetime: goal-setting, decision-making, money management, people skills and business ethics.

By the way - both programs have digital elements online and via mobile apps, so girls can market their Fall Product or Cookie businesses by sending e-cards or emails, take orders on an app, track their sales and goals, and much more. Pretty cool, huh?

How girls use their Product Sales funds

Girls decide how they will use funds earned from our Product Sales programs.

During the 2017-2018 membership year, troops earned more than $500,000 total from the Fall Product Program and approximately $2.8 million from the Cookie Program.

Many troops use their proceeds to attend activities during the membership year, such as STEM workshops or sleepovers at area museums. They might also use their funds to attend a week of summer camp or a week of day/twilight camp. Others use the monies to go troop camping at their favorite camp.

Girls may decide they want to use their proceeds to pay for part, or all, of their Girl Scout membership the following year. Others may put their funds towards a service project benefiting their favorite animal shelter. And many of our older girl troops opt to save their funds, year after year, to take a trip together during their final year of Girl Scouting. How Product Sales funds get used is up to the girls!

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How GSSJC uses Product Sales funds A portion of the proceeds from each item sold in our Product Sales programs goes to the Council, and this money is invested directly back into our girls and volunteers. While it only costs $25 to join a Girl Scout, that money goes directly to GSUSA. It costs GSSJC $292 to make Girl Scouting a reality for each member. Our Product Sales programs help offset this cost.

Funds from Product Sales programs help GSSJC: • Keep costs low for girl activities, such as workshops and summer camp • Offset the costs of trainings for volunteers, which are often offered at minimal or no cost to volunteers • Maintain our camp properties and service centers utilized regularly by girls and volunteers, ensuring a safe and consistent experience, as well as facilities like Program Place for Girls How to participate in Product Sales Training for both the Fall Product and Cookie Programs will be available online, and you can recruit other parents to fill the roles of troop Fall Product manager and/or troop cookie manager!

It’s never too early to declare your role for either.

Keep an eye out for our emails, read The Golden Link or talk with your volunteer experience manager or local Community service team to find out how your troop can participate in these programs during the year.

Special Feature

Troop Camping Made Easy

Girl Scouts have always understood the importance of nature in a child’s development. There are few things as impressionable as a girl’s first time to camp and spending that time with her friends. Troop camping is available to all troops with the right training to keep you safe and aware of proper troop camping procedures. If you’ve ever wondered how you can get your troop in camp year-round, here is what you need to know: Step one: Become camp certified

Reserving your day or overnight camp stay is easy–with the right training. GSSJC requires each troop that camps to have a volunteer to attend camp training to become camp certified.

To become camp certified, you must attend one three-hour planning session hosted during weekday evenings. Once you’ve completed your planning session, you may attend either a fullday, on-site camp training (8 a.m. – 9 p.m.) or an overnight on a Saturday. Once completed, you will receive an outdoor training card as proof of completion.

Sign up for your planning session by logging in to your MyGS account and registering under Activities.

Step two: Earn your first aid certification To attend camp with your troop, you are required to have at least one volunteer in your group who is first aid-certified. GSSJC hosts monthly training for adults, but you can also become certified through another approved agency. We cannot accept expired certifications. Make sure to renew your certification every two years.Sign up for a first aid certification course at gssjc.org, or go to redcross.org to find training courses near you.

Step three: Schedule your stay

Once you’ve completed steps one and two, all that's left to do is pick a location and date. Troops select a spot by sending the F-127 form (available at gssjc.org under Forms) to campreservations@sjgs.org, along with copies of your troop first aid and camp certification cards. Please allow for five to seven business days for your request to be processed. Camp reservation payments are due two weeks after you receive confirmation and are non-refundable and non-transferrable.

Troop Camp reservation dates are provided two ways: Monthly draw placement – All requests received by the first Monday of the month for placement three months out will be randomized and placed according to availability. See page two of the F-127 for appropriate placement month.

First come, first placed (Camp Corner) - After initial monthly placement is complete, requests will be placed on a first come, first placed basis. These open spots are listed on the weekly Camp Corner email. To be added to this list, send an email to registration@sjgs.org.

Tip: Make sure you have the right adult-to-girl ratio for your stay. You will learn all about this and additional planning considerations during your planning session.

We look forward to seeing you at camp!

Troop Program Ideas for Your Year Easy Ice Breaker Games Help girls get to know each other and learn everyone’s names with one of these fun and easy ice breaker games: M&M Game Give each girl a mini package of M&Ms for a meeting snack, but before they eat their treat they must share a fact about themselves using the following color codes:

Craft/Activity: Create a Mural Girl Scouts can team up with their sisters to create a mural that tells their story in a big, beautiful way. Then they can share their message with pride by unveiling the completed work at a community center, school, or place of worship–and start a dialogue that inspires positive change in the world! If you don’t get permission to paint on any walls, just grab a few large poster boards, and when you’re done, hang them in your homes.

Red - Something about yesterday Orange - Something you do well Yellow - Something about your childhood Green - Something you watch/listen to Blue - Something you learned last week Brown - Something you can’t live without Name Chase This game is a modified version of Duck, Duck, Goose. Have the girls sit around in a circle facing each other. One girl is chosen to be “it” to start the game.

The girl who is “it” stands up and walks around the outside of the circle tapping each girl on the head and saying their name, with prompting if necessary. At some point when she taps a child on the head, she will say the name of the group instead Daisies, Brownies, etc.)

The chosen girl must now jump up and chase “it” around the circle, trying to tag “it” before she can sit down in her place. If she succeeds, “it” takes another turn. If she fails, she takes over as “it.”

Sing “Boom Boom Ta Ra Ra” Tune: Roll Out the Barrel Give thanks for good friends, We have a barrel of fun.

Give thanks for good food, Don't waste one single crumb.

Boom Boom Ta-ra-ra!

Sing out a song of good cheer.

Now's the time to give our big thanks, For the friendship's here!

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Special Feature

Sing “She Wears a G” One of our favorite traditions in Girl Scouts is singing! While lots of our songs are silly, we have just as many with lyrics that show off your Girl Scout pride. “She Wears a G” is a great one to teach your girls. Haven’t heard it before? Ask someone in your Community if they know the tune or find it on the internet.

She wears a G for generosity.

She wears an I for interest, too.

She wears an R for real sportsmanship.

She wears and L for loyalty, for loyalty!

She wears an S for her sincerity.

She wears a C for courtesy.

She wears an O-U-T for outdoor life, outdoor life.

And that Girl Scout is me!

Snack/Recipe: Watermelon S’mores What’s better than s’mores? How about refreshing and sweet s’mores with watermelon? Because August hosts both watermelon and s’mores day, try your hand at making this delicious recipe.

Ingredients: Graham Cracker crumbs Melted dark chocolate Slices of seedless watermelon Mini marshmallows Instructions: Place a watermelon rectangle on a plate.

Sprinkle cracker crumbs over watermelon, followed by melted chocolate and marshmallows.

Make your own box oven Excited about heading to one of our council’s 10 great camps this fall? It’s a great experience for troops (and yes, even adults) of all ages! But now that you’re set to camp...what do you eat? Try out this box oven as a fun alternative to cooking over a campfire!

In addition to being a cooking method requiring less set-up and clean-up, it’s also a great option for certain types of burn bans or to try at a troop meeting at someone’s house.

Note: You should always check gssjc.org or call the council to find out if there is a burn ban at camps before planning any meals requiring fire. Burn bans are posted on the homepage when they are in place.

Materials One large box (copy paper boxes are great, no lid needed) Heavy duty aluminum foil Four small tin cans 9x13 cake pan or small cookie sheet Charcoal chimney and charcoal Small rock to vent the bottom of the oven Directions Cover the inside of the box with two layers of foil. Be sure you have no box showing anywhere. If needed, tape foil down on the outside of the box.

Place a large sheet of foil on a level, not burnable, piece of ground. Place the charcoal chimney on the foil and place a fire starter and whole charcoals (one for every 40 degrees of temperature, plus 1-2 for cold, wet or wind). Light the chimney and wait about 20 minutes for charcoal to be ready.

Pull off the chimney and spread out charcoal to fit under pan used. Place four small cans to support pan or cookie sheet and lower box oven over all. Vent on side away from wind with the small rock.

Cook for amount of time called for in recipe. If cooking for more than 30 minutes, it may be necessary to replenish charcoal. Be sure and lift the box straight up or you will “dump” the heat. No peeking allowed! Anything you can cook in an oven at home can be done in a box. Box ovens are great because anything you cook in the oven at home can also be cooked in them! Just in case you need a few suggestions, though, here’s two of our favorite box oven recipes:

Box Oven Pizzas English muffins Pizza sauce Shredded mozzarella cheese Your favorite pizza toppings

There is still time to join your friends at day camp! gssjc.org/daycamp 8

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Cut English muffins in half. Add sauce, cheese and toppings.

Bake on pan or rack in oven until cheese has melted.

Special Feature

Ceremony: How to perform a flag ceremony When to Perform: • Opening or closing meetings • Opening or closing special events • Beginning or closing a day • Honoring a special occasion or special person • Retiring a worn flag Adults Planning Questions: • Who will carry the flag?

• Who will be the color guards?

• Who will give the directions for the ceremony?

• What song will be sung? Who will sound the pitch

and start the song?

• Will a poem or quotation be included? Who will

say or read it?

• After the Pledge of Allegiance, will the Girl Scout

Promise and the Law be said?

• In what order will the parts of the ceremony take place?

• When will the group practice?

• Where will the flags be placed at the end of the ceremony?

Commands for a Flag Ceremony "Girl Scouts, attention."

"Color guard, advance."

"Color guard, post the colors.”

"Color guard, honor your flag."

"Please join us in saying the Pledge of Allegiance."

"Color guard, honor your flag."

When it is time to retire the colors, the commands are: "Color guard, retire the colors."

"Color guard, dismissed."

"Girl Scouts, dismissed."

Handling the American Flag Display of the American flag is governed by law to ensure that it will be treated with the respect due the flag of a great nation. This is known as the United States Flag Code. Some of the rules most useful for Girl Scouts are: • • • • • • • • •

The American flag must be placed in the center, and higher, when displayed with a group of state, local, or organizational flags flown from staffs. It may also be positioned to the right of other flags. (If girls were to hold the flag while facing their audience, their right side would be the flag's own right.)

When displayed from a staff in a house of worship or public auditorium, the flag of the United States must hold the position of superior prominence, in advance of the audience, and in the position of honor at the clergy's or speaker's right as he or she faces the audience. Any other flag so displayed should be placed on the left of the clergy or speaker or to the right of the audience.

The flag is to be hoisted briskly and lowered slowly with dignity.

The flag should never be allowed to touch anything beneath it, nor should it ever be carried flat or horizontally—always aloft and free.

Never use the flag as a cover or place anything on top of it.

No disrespect of any kind should be shown to the flag of the United States. It should be kept clean.

The flag, when carried in a procession with other flags, should be either on the marching right or, if there is a line of other flags, in front of the center of that line.

When you display the flag on a wall or in a window where people see it from the street, it should be displayed flat with the blue part at the top and on the flag's own right (which is the observer's left).

When displayed after dark, the flag should be illuminated.

For more information about flag ceremonies, see The Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting.

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Features

Breaking Ground: Girl Scout Alumnae Organization Chartered at Stephen F. Austin State University

Congratulations, graduating Ambassadors! Your future is bright and your years as a Girl Scout have provided you with wonderful memories, lifelong friends and the confidence to create your own path.

Now that you’re headed to college or a career, how can you stay involved? You don’t have to wait until you’re a the mom of a Daisy to discover the joys of adult Girl Scouting!

This spring in Nacogdoches, four go-getters SFA Girl Scout alumnae distributing saplings at a Keep Nacogdoches Beautiful found an answer to this question. With the guidance Earth Day event. of faculty advisor and Pine Village Community Leader, Dr. Chay Runnels, they chartered a Girl Scout Alumnae Organization (GSAO) on the campus of Stephen F. Austin State University to provide social, leadership and service opportunities for women on campus and to create awareness about the opportunities that Girl Scouts can provide. As part of the charter, the girls also pledged to sponsor and mentor an older girl troop to meet on campus.

Gold Award Girl Scout and SFA GSAO President Cassie Givas says organizing this group is something that connects her to her childhood. “Girl Scouts was a very constant and important part of my life growing up and being able to start a Girl Scout alumnae chapter at my university is really special to me.”

For Vice President Mary Hediger the organization gives her a way to give back to Girl Scouts and connect with other former Girl Scouts. “I really enjoy working with Girl Scouts at camps and such, but I haven't been able to volunteer with the organization as much since starting college. I was excited to join the alumnae organization because I knew that it would be a group of women that I had something in common with, something that I enjoyed.”

Givas, Hediger and fellow founding officers Secretary Kayla Lindsey and Treasurer Hannah Weaver began to promote the organization through social media and events at SFA. Currently there are about a dozen members involved from diverse majors and Girl Scout backgrounds. Weaver says, "I wanted to join the alumnae organization because of how much I loved Girl Scouts as a kid. Even though I did not get to be in the organization long, the experience was amazing."

This spring the alumnae began their service work by sponsoring an older girl troop at SFA, including taking on-campus training that allows them to work with minors on campus. “These young women provide a unique voice to our older Girl Scouts as well as a gateway to limitless university resources that enhance our Girls’ Scouting experience,” says Janis Rizzo, Region 1 leadership coordinator and SFA troop leader.

As an initial project, the alumnae worked with the Cadettes on their LiA Award, modeling how to plan and run an event for younger girls. The alumnae incorporated their individual experiences related to their varied majors, such as the visual arts and theatre, in the planning process. Runnels says, “The incredible thing about this program is that it provides leadership development opportunities for older girls and alumnae alike, while promoting the lasting sisterhood of Girl Scouts."

The alumnae also volunteer in their local community, including distributing saplings at a Keep Nacogdoches Beautiful Earth Day event. But some gatherings, like a recent game night, are just for fun. And this is just the beginning. Lindsey sums up the group’s goals for next year when she says that she is looking forward to “expanding the organization, getting to know the older girls, and helping out with upcoming events.”

Will you be attending SFA in the fall? Get in touch with the SFA Girl Scout Alumnae Organization and walk onto campus with a

ready-made group of friends! For more information email Dr. Chay Runnels at runnelsc@sfasu.edu.

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Features

The Many Faces of Girl Scouts: Tina Ruiz

Do what you love; love what you do. Augustina “Tina” Ruiz, Hispanic Volunteer Development Manager for Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council, saw no other option for her career path.

“When I came to this country, I was trying to get involved again with Girl Scouts because I was a Girl Guide. For me, it was the perfect job because my experience, my background, my entire life is around Girl Scouts,” said Ruiz.

Seventeen years ago, Ruiz immigrated to the United States from Colombia. Being unfamiliar with the language and customs of a new country, Ruiz learned English by listening and taking classes at a local college. “My life in this country in the beginning was so hard. I saw barriers, and the language was a big one. That’s why I understand those moms,” said Ruiz.

The moms Ruiz refers to are her Hispanic volunteers. In fact, Ruiz’s first experience with Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council was as a volunteer. That, in addition to her experiences acclimating to American culture, led Ruiz to her current position for which she is so perfectly suited.

“It’s a blessing to be [a] Hispanic Volunteer Development Manager. When we started this program, it was to work with the girls, but we discovered if we don’t work with moms, we

are wasting our time.

We decided to focus this program more on developing leadership in moms in order to become a role model for the girls,” said Ruiz.

By the second year, the program had grown significantly. In the third year, retention had skyrocketed.

Tina Ruiz center with two of her volunteers.

However, with great success often comes great responsibilities. “There are many things on my plate, but [what I always] bump on top is to communicate with volunteers,” said Ruiz. “Most of them are facing difficult times to accommodate, to understand different culture. Everything is so difficult. When you can find that person to at least ask you, ‘How do you feel today?’ – for them it’s important. They said, ‘I feel like Girl Scouts is taking care of me too.’”

Since first joining Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council, Ruiz’s work has evolved into something much more than just a career. “For me it’s not a job. For me it’s my passion,” said Ruiz. “I believe in Girl Scouts because through many years involved in this movement, I saw many generations – my daughters, even my granddaughters.

When I saw that, I believed that I had to share this great thing with somebody else.”

When asked about the future, Ruiz remarked on returning to where she began – volunteering. “I feel like I have time to share with more people,” said Ruiz. “It’s going to be in Girl Scouts. Yeah, definitely!”

To meet more of the Many Faces of Girl Scouts, visit www.manyfacesofgirlscouts.com

All-Day Camps at Program Place for Girls Join us for day camp at Program Place for Girls in Houston for six weeks of fun! Earn badges, do arts and crafts and make new friends. Badge work will focus on art, the outdoors and STEM. Snack will be provided, but a sack lunch is required. There will be field trips during the week and special guest speakers. Times for weeks 1 – 6 are Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. The cost is $195 per week. Cost includes T-shirt, patch and mug.

Learn to create easy and tasty snacks using a variety of ingredients. You’ll sample some of our staff’s favorite recipes from around the world and create your own recipe booklet to take with you.

Daisies: Participation patch Brownies: Snacks Juniors: Simple Meals Cadettes: New Cuisines

Get ready to put on your dancing shoes, sing your best and shine! Play theater games with your new friends, learn some dance moves and write a camp song.

At the end of the week, you’ll put on a performance for the whole camp.

Daisies: Participation patch Brownies: Dance Juniors: Musician Cadettes: Public Speaker

All-Day Camp at Camps Casa Mare and Agnes Arnold Are you a writer, storyteller or want to experience the magic in storytelling?

Learn storytelling techniques, become expert screenwriters and watch your production come alive by the end of the week.

Daisies: Participation Patch Brownies: My Family Story Juniors: Scribe Cadettes: Screenwriter

Cost is $210, includes lunch.

Finish out your summer with a week of day camp at Camp Casa Mare or Camp Agnes Arnold. Enjoy all the fun of day camp and resident camp in one week. Enjoy arts and crafts, games, swimming, archery (Brownies and up) and working on your Outdoor Journey.

Optional sleep-over on Thursday to experience cooking over a fire, nighttime activities and singing around the campfire. Camp is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Ask about bus options to Casa from Program Place.

July/August 2018 l The Golden Link

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Features

Six Camping Badges that Empower Girls through Outdoor Adventures Have your girl start summer off right with an outdoor adventure!

It’s once again time for your girl to check her outdoor gear, restock her daypack and get ready to spend more time in the great outdoors–like a Girl Scout! Whether she’s having camping adventures with her troop at Girl Scout camp, visiting a national park with her family or even pitching a tent in her own backyard, there are so many ways to have a Girl Scout adventure. Learn more about these badges in your levels badge book or on the Volunteer ToolKit. Daisy Buddy Camper badge: Camping is a great adventure to do outdoors. Here she’ll play in nature, eat outside and sleep under the stars with her family, friends or Girl Scout sisters. When she earns this badge, your Daisy will learn how to plan for a camping trip and properly pack her outdoor gear, so she’s always Girl Scout prepared.

Brownie Cabin Camper badge: When your Brownie earns this badge, it’s a chance for her to spend time in nature and have fun with friends or family. She’ll dive deeper into planning her camping trip, learn how to use camping gear, prepare a delicious meal in the outdoors and try her hand at a new camping skill.

Junior Eco Camper badge: We already know it’s easy being green when you’re a Girl Scout and with this badge, your Junior will not only learn the Leave No Trace Seven Principles but also how to apply them. She’ll plan meals with the environment in mind, prepare a minimal-impact campsite and go on a conservation hike. Having fun and protecting the environment at the same time? We’re in.

Cadette Primitive Camper badge: Primitive camping can be difficult, even for experienced campers, but we know your Girl Scout Cadette is up for the challenge! Through this badge, she’ll step up her outdoor skills–from planning a primitive camping adventure with her troop to gathering the gear she’ll need to succeed.

Senior Adventure Camper badge: Girl Scouts are natural outdoor adventurers, and whether your Girl Scout Senior likes to kayak, mountain bike or go rock climbing, why not combine her passion with an overnight camping trip to make the most of her outdoor experience? Adventure camping requires minimal equipment and gear because she’ll be active all day and possibly moving campsites. And, thanks to this badge, your girl will know exactly how to prepare for the challenge.

Ambassador Survival Camper badge: Is your girl ready to test her camping skills with minimal supplies? Once she earns this badge, she will be! She’ll learn what it’s really like to go off the grid, survive off the land and explore the great outdoors with her crew. And she’ll not only be prepared for future adventures outdoors but also be able to share her knowledge with others.

Source: www.girlscouts.org 12 July/August 2018 l The Golden Link

Features

Ode to Girl Scouts

by Zaniya P. Girl Scouts from seed to sprout Amazing journey we found out Guided us on the right route Lead us up to the highest mount O my Girl Scouts Look how much you have branched out Daisy to Brownie, Brownie to Junior, day in and day out Kindness, courage and respect are the qualities we will never doubt Our Girl Scouts honor never burns out

O Girl Scouts Together we learn Together we churn The assets generosity, compassion and goodness we earn

Leaving Troop #19440 You have always been my hero Moving up to Troop #883 It will give me the key To be a better me

2018 Annual Recognition Event Delights Ann Temple Allen Lodge at Camp Agnes Arnold was packed with Girl Scout members for this year’s Adult Recognition Event on April 21 honoring some stellar Girl Scout volunteers! The breakfast, attended by 276, recognized 58 volunteers and staff for their contributions and years of service to GSSJC. The poppy theme brightened up every corner of the lodge hall and tables where cook volunteers and Green Angels served up a hearty breakfast. Incoming Council President and Board of Directors Chair Dee Hinkle and Board Member Pilar Grantham read membership year speeches while outgoing Council President and Chair of the Board of Directors Jean Janssen pinned both membership pins and council and national award pins.

This year’s event featured another very successful year for the Emerald Oaks Community who received The President’s Award for the second year in a row, modeling a high-functioning Girl Scout community in management, recruitment and retention, marketing and fulfilling the Girl Scout mission. Congratulations!

Another highlight of the event was the presentation of a Lifetime Achievement Award to Kathy Tamer who has 60 years (yes, 60!) of membership with Girl Scouts and 50 years of adult volunteerism. She truly exemplifies what it means to have a lifetime in Girl Scouts. Look for her portrait in the Girl Scout Center soon. A big thank you to the event and recognition committees for planning this wonderful event!

Award presentations included: Lifetime Achievement Appreciation Pin Kathy Tamer Cindy Kollias Delta Rhodes Volunteer of Excellence Diane Ragan Tanya Justice Edna Chible Kristin Haney Rosalba Lopez Larry Ellis Honor Pin Vivienne Aceves Donna Sisak Rochelle Salazar Gay Smither Tonya Curry Jim Lippert Jamie Vasquez Family Award Debbie Gonzales Stella & George Aselin Melody Cay-Rice

Thanks Badge Jean Janssen Ida Pearl McDonald Anna Nallie Continuing Service Pin Jo Blackburn Gail Rankin Alice Bohlae Sandy Judson

Jean Janssen, left, awards Kathy Tamer the Lifetime Achievement Award.

President’s Award Emerald Oaks Community

Years of Membership (YOM) & Years of Service (YOS) Pins 25 yom Portia Cook 30 yom Bonnie Homier 25 yom Melissa Hardy 30 yom Judy Syring Sandra Johnson 25 yom 30 yom Leslie Syring-Bacerra 25 yom Rachel Lee 30 yom & 30 yos Novella McGinnis 25 yom & 25 yos Caudelia Gates 25 yom & 25 yos Sandy Judson 25 yom & 25 yos Patrina Carter 30 yos Debbie Gonzales 25 yos Noreen Wasserman 35 yom Phil Olsommer Genevieve Walls 25 yos 35 yom Iska Wire Carrie Carter 30 yom 35 yom & 35 yos Nancy Flatt 30 yom Elena McCreery 40 yom Lynn Flournoy 30 yom Tasha McGinnis-Williams 40 yom Glenda Graves Joanne Olsommer 30 yom 40 yom D'Anne Hawk 30 yom Karyn Smith

40 yom Lance Feldman Linda Pau 40 yom 40 yos Melody Cay-Rice 40 yos & 50 yom Frances Browning 40 yom & 35 yos Anna Nallie 45 yos Ida Pearl McDonald Marianna Olivarez 45 yom 50 yom Mary Jane Magill 55 yom & 45 yos Nancy McGuire 60 yom Peggy Allison 60 yom & 50 yos Kathy Tamer

July/August 2018 l The Golden Link 13

Features

Congratulations Gold Award Girl Scouts The Girl Scout Gold Award represents the highest achievement in Girl Scouting; it recognizes girls in grades 9-12 who demonstrate extraordinary leadership through sustainable and measurable Take Action projects. Since 1916, girls have successfully pursued the highest award, an act that indelibly marks them as accomplished members of their communities and the world.

Faith A. partnered with Elijah Rising, a nonprofit organization that helps victims of human trafficking. Faith worked with the organization to create a rehabilitation room on Elijah Rising’s 84-acre property, Kendleton Farms. Together they: replaced windows and door; repainted walls and ceilings; provided new electrical wiring for the room; hung a new lighted ceiling fan; and added new furniture, bedding and décor to make the room a tranquil space where residents can relax and heal.

Kaitlin C. hosted four group sessions for adolescents dealing with social anxiety. During the sessions, Kaitlin coached participants on how to communicate while demonstrating the importance of social cues. To practice skills and encourage teamwork, the groups went on fun outings, including a ropes course, an escape room, Urban Air and laser tag. Additionally, Kaitlin provided scrapbooks and pamphlets to parents outlining her curriculums, which detailed other ways to help improve children’s social skills and calm anxiety.

Erin C. partnered with Making It Better, a foundation established to help children who lack positive role models and opportunities, to address the gap in achievement between children with parental support and disadvantaged children whose parents could not participate in early learning. Through her project, Erin provided tools to support reading success and taught curriculum to students in grades K - 5 during after school tutoring. She also collected 200 books to provide summer reading materials for disadvantaged children.

Madeline D. recruited 10 volunteers to help build a new, easily accessible indoor garden at The Manor at Jersey Village. Through her project, Madeline highlighted the value of indoor gardening for healthy living within the senior population. Continued maintenance of the garden will provide residents with fresh organic fruits and vegetables, stress relief and improved air quality. Madeline’s inspiration for her project stemmed from fond memories of gardening with her mother and grandmother.

Carmen G. worked with Special Pals, a nokill animal shelter in Katy, to help make the environment more welcoming for families looking to adopt. Carmen enlisted and managed nine volunteers to help her clean, paint and decorate the facility. She also created brochures with details about adopting a pet and additional information on what new pet owners can expect when introducing their new furry family member to their forever homes.

Elizabeth Holland created a presentation that combined videos and photos to address questions and topics for new team managers of Destination ImagiNation (DI), a nonprofit organization that promotes creative problemsolving skills. Every year, DI publishes international challenges to students who then present their solutions at regional, state and international tournaments. As a long-time participant in DI, Elizabeth chose to help younger, rising teams develop skills needed to succeed for her project.

Cameryn M. raised awareness about the Life Hammer Safety Tool, an emergency hammer that includes a razor-sharp blade that can be used to break the windows of a vehicle. Cameryn believes her late aunt, who died after accidentally driving her car into a neighborhood lake, could have been saved if she knew about the tool. Using skills acquired from her audio video class, Cameryn created a video and brochure highlighting the features and benefits of the tool.

Parker M. worked with Lone Star Association for Behavior Analysis in Magnolia, an organization that assists people with disabilities, to improve their outdoor facilities.

With support from 25 volunteers, Parker revamped a nature trail on Lone Star’s campus by clearing paths overgrown with brush and roots and constructing new bridges, staircases and wooden walkways. After completing renovations, Parker and her team hid trinkets along the trail so patients could enjoy an interactive outdoor activity.

Isha T. organized a career camp for middle and high school students to expose them to a variety of potential career paths. Isha invited professional women to share their experiences with the students. She also organized activities sponsored by the Junior Achievement to help the participants find their passion and understand how a career can help them achieve their lifestyle goals. In addition, Isha coached the students in stress management, study habits, organization, personal hygiene, dress code and interview skills.

Chelsea W. led a team of 21 volunteers to help educate teens about breast cancer, breast exams and the importance of early detection. Chelsea’s great grandmother and grandmother both passed away from breast cancer. In a community where the topic is often taboo, Chelsea hoped her project would help save a life by providing information her family members did not have.

Nearly 100 teens, adults and volunteers were impacted by Chelsea’s project.

14 July/August 2018 l The Golden Link

Activities

Girl and Troop Activities Register for activities under the Activities tab in MyGS. Go to www.gssjc.org and select MyGS, log in to“Member Profile," then select Activities. If you have a question about your activity, contact 713-292-0370 or 1-800-392-4340. If you have a problem with your login, contact Customer Service at 713-292-0300 or registration@sjgs.org. Bring: For all events, bring Permission Slip F-204 and Medical Form F-185 for each girl and the Adult Emergency Form F-22 for each adult.

Attention Daisy Leaders! Look for the Daisy in this section for activities that Daisies can attend.

Weekend Camp Activity Registration Improved!

We have a NEW way to find expert-led and troop self-led activity availability at council camps! See the schedule of available activities listed below, and learn how to register at bit.ly/wkndcamp. Come out for the day or ask your camp certified adult to reserve a camp unit for your troop.

Don’t see facilitated activities for the camp date you reserved? There are great ideas for girl-led outdoor programs in Camp Certification training materials as well as your camp reservation confirmation. Does your troop have its own USAA certified instructor for archery or lifeguard for swimming? Email your registration form and certifications to registration@sjgs.org, and we’ll let you know if the facility is available. Registration closes 13 days before event.

Weekend Camp Activities

Sept. 8

Sept. 15

Sept. 22

Sept. 29

Oct. 6

Oct. 13

Oct. 20

Camp Agnes Arnold

H

H

A, C, S, H

H

H

C, S, H

A, S, C, H

Camp Casa Mare

S

S

S

A, S

S

S

S

Camp Misty Meadows

H, S

H, S

H, S

A, S, H, R, L

R*, L*, A, S, H, S, H, S, H R, L R, L

Camp Robinwood

S, C

S, C

S, C

A, C, S

C, S

A, C, S

C, S

C, S

A, S

S

S

S

S

A, S

Z

C

C

C

A, C

C

Camp Myra S. Pryor Camp Silver Springs Camp Wind-a-Mere Camp Whispering Pines

Nov. 17

C, H

H

R*, L*,

H

A, R*, L*, H

C C, S

C

H, R, L C

A, C Z

A

Lake Jackson Service Center

Registration Opens

Nov. 3 Nov. 10

A

S, C

A C

Oct. 27

C

C

A, C

A

Open now

KEY: Archery–A Canoe–C Swimming–S Hikes–H Z–See page 20 for climbing wall and zip line options.

Horseback Riding–R

Archery: Available for Brownies (girls in second grade) or older.

Sessions are for one hour and on Saturday only. Up to 12 girls per session can learn archery basics and spend some time practicing their aim. These archery sessions are instructor-led meaning an instructor will be provided for your group. Session times: Saturday at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m., 4 p.m. and 5 p.m.

If you have your own USAA instructor, submit a program registration form and appropriate certifications to registration@sjgs.org, and a separate time will be reserved for your troop to do archery if available.

Canoeing: Spend some time paddling around the camp lake! Sessions are for one hour on Saturday only and for all ages. Canoing sessions are not instructor led. Groups are required to provide their own ACA-certified or FOC-certified adult for these sessions. Copies of certifications must be received at registration@sjgs.org at least two weeks before the scheduled session. Groups without a certified adult will be cancelled and refunded.

Session times: Saturday at 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and noon.

Hikes with Henry and Friends: If you want a fun way to introduce your girls to camp during the day, consider taking a guided hike.

Foresters Henry Steitz and John Ross and a group of dedicated volunteers conduct hikes that are both fun and informative. You haven’t really seen camp until you have toured it with these guys!

These sessions are approximately two hours each and are for all ages. Cost includes a patch, and adults must register for the session.

Session times: August through October–10 a.m. at Arnold and Misty; November through February–10 a.m. at Arnold and 2 p.m. at Misty; March through May–10 a.m. at Arnold and Misty.

July 15

August 15 Love, Hug and Groom–L *Limited availability

Horseback Riding: Horseback riding is available on Saturdays and Sundays for Juniors through Ambassadors. Rides are for one hour and take place in either the arena or on a trail, depending on the skill of the riders. Girls must arrive 30 minutes before their scheduled ride time. Appropriate attire includes long pants and boots with a smooth sole and 1/2 inch heels. Boots are available for ride time.

Helmets are provided. There is a weight limit of 200 pounds for all horse riding sessions. Session Times: Saturday at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m. and 4 p.m.; Sunday at 9 a.m. and 10 a.m.

Love, Hug and Groom: Love, Hug and Groom is a non-riding activity to introduce girls of all ages to horse care. Girls will receive a barn tour, introduction to horse care and a hands-on grooming opportunity with camp horses. Sessions are for one hour and are available on Saturday and Sunday. Session Times: Saturday at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m. and 4 p.m.; Sunday at 9 a.m. and 10 a.m.

Swimming: Need to cool off? Take a dip in the camp pool!

Swimming time slots are available for one hour on Saturday only for girls of all ages. Note, these sessions are pool fun time and free swim. These swimming sessions are lifeguard-provided (meaning a lifeguard will be provided for your group.) Council Lifeguard session times: Saturday at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m. If you have your own lifeguard, submit a program registration form and appropriate certifications to registration@sjgs.org, and a separate time will be reserved for your troop to swim if available.

July/August 2018 l The Golden Link 15

Activities

Archery Archers in Motion (AIM): JOAD Program Archers in Motion (JOAD Club) is a special interest group for archery. The group meets once a month. Members shoot 30 arrows to achieve JOAD Level 1. Much be age 8 or older. In order to qualify for Advanced JOAD, a girl must complete all JOAD Levels.

Who: Any registered Girl Scout 8 year or older.

Where: Camp Robinwood, Willis When: Sept. 9, Oct. 14, Nov. 11, Dec. 9, Jan. 13, Feb. 10,

March 10, April 14, May 12 Stay tuned for more information about Archery Weekend at Camp Robinwood from Sept. 7–9. Contact Laura Arrington, 713-292-0324, larrington@sjgs.org for more information!

Join in on the archery carousel, see page 18 for details.

Backpacking Day Hikes with the Backpackers

Step out and enjoy a day in nature, and get away from the city! Join and meet fellow Girl Scouts, and explore a nearby forest or park. You will take a leisurely hike and start to learn some backpacking skills and tips along the way. Come on one hike, or come on them all! Lunch and a day pack will be provided to all attendees. This is a great way to get a taste for the Girl Scout backpacking program.

Who: Where:

When: Cost: Deadline: Contact: Note:

Girl Scouts, Juniors through Adult Oct. 6 – Lake Houston Wilderness Park Nov. 3 – Herman Brown Park , Housotn Jan. 26 – Armand Bayou, Pasadena April 6 – Brazos Bend State Park, Needville 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. $15 per person Two weeks before orientation date Kaydee Tiemann, 713-292-0233, ktiemann@sjgs.org Individually registered girls and troops are welcome. Lunch, backpacks and water bottles will be provided.

Backpacking Orientation

Backpacking Orientation covers all the basic knowledge required for troops and individuals wishing to go backpacking.

Don’t worry if you might be the only girl in your troop or an individually registered girl who might be interested in backpacking. You won’t be the only one! You will be in a group of new friends for the weekend.

You will learn how to back a backpack, care for a tent, and cook on your own personal stove. You will transfer your camping gear to your backpack, hike two miles to the campsite and set up your tent, where you will be spending the evening for a real mini backpacking adventure! Enjoy the campfire, savor dinner on your own stove, and settle in for the night in your tent on the ground under the stars. After packing up your gear the next morning, your will hike two miles back to the main part of camp, say goodbye to your new friends and count down the days until your first weekend backpacking trip!

After successfully completing orientation, participants will earn the GSSJC Backpacking Certification and can accompany any of the existing Council backpacking groups on weekend trips.

Who: Where: When:

Cost:

Deadline: Contact: Note:

Girl Scouts, age 11 through Adult Treelake Camp Complex, Podville (Conroe) 10:30 a.m. on Saturday through noon on Sunday, Oct. 13 – 14, Dec. 1– 2, Feb. 23 – 24 $20 per person, food and packing information will be provided in confirmation letter Two weeks before orientation date Kaydee Tiemann, 713-292-0233, ktiemann@sjgs.org You will be provided with a backpack, tent and stove to use during orientation.

Canoeing Taste of Canoeing Learn how to canoe at this introductory course for Brownies thru Ambassadors with no previous training required. Canoe instructors and older girl canoe aides will teach girls waterfront safety and basic canoe strokes. Canoeing is a great team-building activity and a relaxing and enjoyable way to enjoy the great outdoors.

Who:

Brownies – Ambassadors

When: Where:

September 15, November 3, January 26, March 16 Camp Robinwood, Willis

When: Where:

Feb. 9 and April 6 Camp Myra S. Pryor, Nada

Canoe Certification Camp sessions still available Sign up for a summer of fun.

Look for more information at gssjc.org/summercamp

16 July/August 2018 l The Golden Link

Adults, interested in taking your girls canoe? This training is needed to take girls canoeing on council camp properties and is for adults only. This certification will cover Level I training from the American Canoe Association.

Who: Adults When: Oct. 12 – 14 Where: Camp Myra S. Pryor, Nada

Environmental Grants available for environmental projects

GSSJC offers troops and individuals a chance to apply for a minigrant to complete environmental project. This could be a service project, Take Action project associated with a Journey or even a Bronze, Silver or Gold Award project. Amounts awarded depend on the number of girls involved and the nature of the project. If interested, contact Liz Atton at latton@sjgs.org or 713-292-0269 for more information or to receive an application. Projects must not be completed yet. This is not a reimbursement fund.

Fine Arts Izzie's Jewels

Activities

Snap Happy Take a look through the lens, and explore what it means to take a winning photo! Your photos show others how you see the world so hone in on your artist skills with any type of camera. Juniors will earn the Digital Photographer badge and Ambassadors will earn the Photographer badge.

Who: Junior and Ambassadors Where: Houston Center for Photography When: July 29 (Juniors) and Aug. 5 (Ambassadors),

1 – 3:30 p.m.

Cost: $35/girl Min./Max.: 6/8 Contact: Liz Atton, latton@sjgs.org or 713-292-0269 Note: Badge included!

Outdoor Art Master

Create art in a fun and inspiring environment or practice a new skill like public speaking. You can do anything you put your mind to.

UHCL's Art School for Children offers programs for youth in the Bay Area and encourages an exploration of the visual arts.

Girl Scouts will learn new skills and fulfill all five steps in these complete badge workshops.

Brownies – Juniors Who: Where: PP (Program Place for Girls, Houston)

IJ (Izzie's Jewels Studio, Spring) Cost: $24/girl Contact: Liz Atton, latton@sjgs.org or 713-292-0269 These are not drop-off events. Badge workshops Note: include the badge.

Who: Ambassadors Where: University of Houston–Clear Lake When: 10 a.m. – noon Cost: $22/girl Min./Max.: 8/18 Contact: Liz Atton, latton@sjgs.org or 713-292-0269 Note: This is not a drop-off event. Badge included!

Date Aug. 11 Aug. 4 Aug. 8

Title Brownie Painting badge Brownie Potter badge Junior Scribe badge

Time Location 10 a.m. – noon PP 10 a.m. – noon IJ 6 – 8 p.m. IJ

Art School for ChildrenAmbassador Photographer

Brownie Painting – Learn as we look at different artist's work and style of painting and discuss cubism, abstraction, aboriginal art or different elements. We will use tempera paint, acrylic paint, pens, inks, paper and/or canvas depending on what we are creating.

Your photos show others how you see the world. Hone in on your artistic skills with any type of camera and present the world through your eyes. Explore the power of photography and tell a story with your new skills.

Brownie Potter - Have fun sampling different types of clay and learning the various techniques you can use for pottery design. This will help you better understand and appreciate the art. This is a DIY workshop where you will create your own clay pieces. Use acrylic paint and glaze to finish ceramic pieces that you will get to take home!

Who: Ambassadors Where: University of Houston Clear Lake When: July 21, 1 – 3 p.m.

Cost: $22 per girl Min./Max.: 6/20 Contact: Liz Atton, latton@sjgs.org, 713-292-0269

Junior Scribe – Your writing is powerful. Create characters, plots and settings for your very own story. Learn about different story techniques, and exercise your imagination by putting your thoughts down on paper.

Textile Art Workshop Have you dreamed of being a famous fashion/costume designer? Or maybe you would like to learn how to sew to up-cycle used clothing. The Creativity Shell offers a range of sewing/textile art projects such as sewing, fabric dyeing, quilting and screen printing that are designed to be creative, fun and educational. Seniors will work on their Textile Artist badge.

Who: Juniors – Seniors Where: Program Place for Girls, Houston When: Aug. 11; 10 a.m. – noon Cost: $22/girl Min./Max.: 10/20 Contact: Liz Atton, latton@sjgs.org or 713-292-0269

General Activities Business Etiquette Workshop No matter what your career dreams – astronaut, CEO, rock star, neurobiologist or author – basic business manners will come in handy. How will you showcase what you’re capable of accomplishing? Discover keys to communicating with style and confidence, acing an interview, networking with flair and more.

HR business professionals will be on hand to offer their insight.

Who: Seniors Where: Katy ISD Law Enforcement Center When: Aug. 11, 2 – 5 p.m.

Cost: $20 Contact: Kelli Cavenah, 713-292-0271, kcavenah@sjgs.org July/August 2018 l The Golden Link 17

Activities

All Behaviors Count

A Very Harry Halloween: Second Year

Build a vision of a better world! Take an in-depth tour of the museum to truly understand the history behind the Holocaust and become empowered to be a positive force for change. Girls will explore historical leadership, prejudices and experiences with the Holocaust Museum Houston. Cadettes will complete steps for the aMaze Journey Interact patch and Science of Happiness badge.

The Chamber has been opened! It’s second year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and the adventure continues.

Join us at Camp Whispering Pines where girls will be sorted into houses and compete for the House Cup by playing Quidditch, attending Hogwarts classes, bringing new socks for the Save Dobby Sock Drive and more! The House Cup will be awarded at the end-of-term banquet where costumes are encouraged.

Cadettes will earn their Archery badge. Badges are included.

Who: Cadettes Where: Holocaust Museum Houston When: July 28, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Cost: $22/girl Min./Max.: 10/30 Contact: Liz Atton, latton@sjgs.org or 713-292-0269 Note: This is a drop-off event. Includes a museum tour, curriculum workshop, snack and Science of Happiness badge.

Inside Government What does it mean to be an active citizen? Dive inside government to learn about the events of the Holocaust and learn about the steps you can take to be good citizen. Look into laws, report on the issues and get involved.

Who: Juniors Where: Holocaust Museum Houston When: Aug. 11, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. $22/girl Min./Max.: 10/30 Cost: Contact: Liz Atton, latton@sjgs.org or 713-292-0269 Note: This is a drop-off event. Includes a museum tour, curriculum workshop, snack and Inside Government badge.

Who: Cadettes – Ambassadors and adults Where: Camp Whispering Pines, Garrison When: Nov. 3, 6 p.m. – Nov. 5, noon Bring: New socks to donate, Harry Potter costume for

banquet (optional), water bottle Cost: $45/girl; $25/adult Min/Max: 50/80 Contact: Alexandra Reilman, 936-634-5813, alex.reilman@sjgs.org

GAM 2019- In need of Girl Planning Board Members GSSJC is seeking Cadettes-Ambassadors who wish to serve on a girl planning board for GAM 2019. GAM is a Saturday event where Juniors through Ambassadors attend for a day of fun and exciting activities designed to both challenge and entertain you. GAM 2019 is April 12, 2019 and we’re filling our team now! For more information or an application to join the girl planning board, please contact Liz Atton at latton@sjgs.org.

Girls who serve on the board could also earn their Service to Girl Scouting Bars or their Torch Awards!

Carousel Camp with your Girl Scout troop at these fun-filled weekends! Program is provided; you just prepare your girls for the camping experience and bring your own meals and camping supplies. Carousel is a perfect introduction to camping for your troop’s first time and a great event to attend more than once as each Carousel is unique. Get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime!

Who:

Bring:

Cost: Contact:

Girl Scout troops and Girl Scout ratio of adults only; GSSJC reserves the right to refund adults that exceed this ratio because space is limited. Priority is given to the girls.

Troops are responsible for providing a Camp Certified adult, current CPR/first aider, first aid kit, simple meals, personal camping equipment and SWAPS. $28/participant (girl or adult) includes patch Deadline: Two weeks before event Carrie Seals, cseals@sjgs.org, 713-292-0312

When Where Theme July 16 – 18 Camp Myra S. Pryor Wacky Water Olympics July 19 – 21 Camp Myra S. Pryor Splish Splash Summer Sept. 7 – 9 Camp Robinwood Archery Focus Registration for Sunday AIM/JOAD activities is separate from the Archery Carousel weekend. Girls wanting to participate in both must register for these program separately.

Host troops are needed for these Carousel weekends at Camp Robinwood. See below on how to sign up!

Oct. 19 – 21, Jan. 25 – 27, Feb. 22 – 24, March 15 – 17, April 12 – 14, May 17 – 19; dates for summer 2019 available for troops too! Call Carrie for information.

Note: Carousel program is designed to serve troops. *Submit a copy of Camp Training Certification and first aid/CPR to campreservations@sjgs.org, fax to 713-292-0340, mail to GSSJC attn: Carousel Registrar, 3110 Southwest Freeway, Houston, TX 77098.

18 July/August 2018 l The Golden Link

Wanted: Carousel Host Troops!

Calling all interested older girl troops! Want to host a carousel? Want to earn extra money? Consider hosting a carousel for a leadership and money earning opportunity for your older girls. This is a fun way for troops to earn extra money towards their troop programs while serving other girls.

Carousel is an exciting twist to traditional troop camping where a host troops serves as camp counselors to coordinate the Saturday camp activities.

Carousel host troops provide great program for our camp carousel weekends. Eligible host troops can earn $3 per girl attending the carousel session.

Pick a weekend and a theme, and the girls and adult volunteers in your troop prepare a fun day of activities for other troops at camp.

Contact: Carrie Seals, cseals@sjgs.org, 713-292-0312 for available dates.

Activities

Girl Scout Leadership Institute (GSLI) - Reliant Reliant welcomes Girl Scouts of San Jacinto to tour the state-of-the-art Reliant Smart Home. Girls will experience an interactive tour and discuss electricity, smart energy solutions, residential services, and security technology with industry leaders, including NRG Retail and Reliant President Elizabeth Killinger. Reliant is part of NRG Energy, Inc., a Fortune 500 company that creates value through best-in-class operations and reliable and efficient electric generation.

Who: Where: When: Deadline: Cost: Contact:

Seniors and Ambassadors Reliant Smart Home, Houston July 20, 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Two weeks prior $10/person Min./Max.: 10/25 Kara Powers, 713-292-0209, kpowers@sjgs.org

Girl Scout Leadership Institute (GSLI) – AT&T AT&T welcomes Girl Scouts of San Jacinto to tour the Telephone History Exhibit and participate in a career leadership panel where they will be able to ask questions of female leaders across multiple departments. Girls will also have instruction on personal branding and the opportunity to perform mock interviews with female mentors. AT&T is a Fortune 10 company and world leader in communications, media and entertainment, and technology, serving millions of consumers and businesses globally.

Who: Seniors and Ambassadors Where: AT&T, Houston When: July 24, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Deadline: Two weeks prior Cost: $10/person Min./Max.: 10/25 Contact: Kara Powers, 713-292-0209, kpowers@sjgs.org

Girl Scout Leadership Institute (GSLI) – Entergy Entergy welcomes Girl Scouts of San Jacinto to tour the Entergy Lewis Creek Plant and interact with female leaders across multiple departments, including legal, human resources, systems planning, engineering, finance and public relations.

Girls will also have the opportunity to meet with state-level senior executives. Entergy Corporation is an integrated energy company engaged primarily in electric power production and retail distribution operations. Entergy Texas, Inc. provides electricity to approximately 450,000 customers in 27 counties.

Who: Seniors and Ambassadors Where: Entergy Lewis Creek Plant, Willis When: July 17, 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Deadline: Two weeks prior Cost: $10/person Min./Max.: 10/25 Contact: Kara Powers, 713-292-0209, kpowers@sjgs.org

Girl Scout Leadership Institute (GSLI) – BHP Petroleum BHP welcomes Girl Scouts of San Jacinto to tour its Galleria office and have the opportunity to ask questions of senior-level management across multiple departments, covering topics such as career management and leadership training. Girls will also be able to ask questions about career opportunities with mining companies such as BHP. BHP is a world-leading resources company, extracting and processing minerals, oil, and gas, and is also among the world’s top producers of major commodities, including iron ore, metallurgical coal and copper.

Who: Where: When: Deadline: Cost: Contact:

Seniors and Ambassadors BHP Petroleum, Houston July 25, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Two weeks prior $10/person Min./Max.: 10/25 Kara Powers, 713-292-0209, kpowers@sjgs.org

Mission Sisterhood Sleepover Sisterhood is a part of the Girl Scout tradition. Join us to unleash the magic of stories to widen your network and ignite the energy of sisterhood to create real change in the world. As Seniors expand their friendship borders, they boost their confidence and make the most of their leadership skills. Journey activities, snacks and a movie will make this event feel like your favorite slumber party with your very best friends.

Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:

Seniors and adult chaperones Program Place for Girls July 20 7 p.m. – July 21 5 p.m. $25 per girl, $15 per adult Min./Max.: 15/60 Kelli Cavenah, kcavenah@sjgs.org, 713-292-0271

Older Girls R Epic Every September, GSSJC holds an event exclusively for older Girl Scouts to learn everything we offer beyond the troop. This event transforms the Program Place for Girls into an open housestyle event where Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors can learn about special interest groups, unique programming and more. (Not to mention – have some fun!) In addition to learning what you can do as an older Girl Scout, you can experience laser tag, eat a snow cone or take on a rock climbing wall.

Who: When: Cost: Where: Contact:

Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors Sept. 8, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Free, but registration is encouraged Program Place for Girls, Houston Kelli Cavenah, 713-292-0271, kcavenah@sjgs.org

Camping is an Adventure

Experience a weekend of adventures while swimming, learning cooking skills, archery, canoeing and a hike/scavenger hunt. This camp out is all about you! Girls at each level will earn their First Aid Badges during this adventurous weekend.

We will need adult volunteers to help make the weekend a success. Any adult who signs up will be asked to assist with the weekend – chaperoning girls and assisting with program pieces.

Who: Where: When: Cost:

Contact:

Cadettes, Ambassadors, and Seniors Camp Casa Mare Sept. 7, 8:30 p..m. – Sept. 9, 11 a.m. $40 per girl Min./Max: 50/100 $25 per adult Min./Max: 20/30 Taylor Franklin, tfranklin@sjgs.org, 713-292- 0353 July/August 2018 l The Golden Link 19

Activities

Letterboxing at Camps Letterboxing is a super cool cross between a treasure hunt, art, navigation and exploring interesting, scenic places as you follow clues to a hidden box containing a stamp and a logbook. It’s like hiking with a prize at the end! There are letterboxes hiding at Girl Scout camps waiting for you the next time you go camping. Many of our camps have letterboxes, and new ones are being added regularly. We always need new troops or groups to place new letterboxes at camps too. We have to set up new boxes as weather and curious critters make the boxes disappear. For a complete list of clues or information on how to set up new letterboxes, contact Liz Atton at 713292-0269.

Cadette and Senior Life Skills Badge Workshop What does a girl need to know to be prepared for the world today? Join Region 4 for a some fun, hands on activities learning life skills. Cadettes will earn their public speaking badge and Seniors will earn their Troop Performer badge and learn a host of other new skills!

Who: Where: When: Cost:

Contact:

Cadettes and Seniors Lone Star College Library - CyFair August 5, 1 – 5 p.m. $8 per girl Min./Max: 7/25 Adults Free Min./Max: 2/4 Taylor Franklin, tfranklin@sjgs.org, 713-292- 0353

Geocaching Join the fun with this high-tech treasure hunting game played throughout the world by adventure seekers equipped with GPS devices. GSSJC has units available for rental. The cost is $10 per week with a $25 deposit per unit. Use the units locally, in some state parks or even in some of our camps. Currently geocaches are set up at Camps Myra S. Pryor, Misty Meadows, Silver Springs and Agnes Arnold. If your troop is interested in setting up new geocaches at any of our camps, you can use our GPS units at no cost! For information or to reserve units contact Liz Atton at 713-292-0269.

High Adventure High Adventure Climbing Wall and Zipline

Girls will have the opportunity to be fearless and try something new at Camp Silver Springs this fall! Trained facilitators will guide Cadettes through Ambassadors on the wall and zipline for a memorable outing. Whether troop camping or just coming out for the day, the climbing wall and zipline are open to any Girl Scout group, troop or individual.

Who: Girl Scouts, ages 12-18 Where: Camp Silver Springs, Conroe When: Oct. 13, Nov. 10, Dec. 8, Jan. 12, Feb. 9, March 9,

April 13

9 – 11 a.m., noon – 2 p.m. and 2 – 4 p.m.

Cost: $25/girl per session Min./Max.: 6/12 Contact: Kaydee Tiemann, 713-292-0233, ktiemann@sjgs.org Note: Participants must climb the wall in order to get to zipline.

The climbing wall and zipline is for girls only. Spectators cannot be accommodated.

Troop Challenge Course

Build troop support, improve communication and develop resourcefulness in your girls by participating in a fun and challenging low and high ropes course. In this interactive activity, girls are faced with decision making situations that can be mentally and physically challenging as they navigate obstacles on the ground and in trees.

Who: Girl Scouts, ages 12–18 Where: Camp Silver Springs, Conroe When: Saturdays only, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m Cost: $50/girl per session Min./Max.: 6/12 Deadline: Program registration form must be received six

weeks prior to requested date.

Contact: Kaydee Tiemann, 713-292-0233, ktiemann@sjgs.org Note: Indicate your preferred date to use the course on your registration form. Due to facilitator scheduling, registration is not guaranteed until confirmation letter is received. The Challenge Course is for girls only. Spectators cannot be accommodated.

Health Eating for You Badge Workshop Nutrition isn’t just about maintaining a healthy weight: Eating well helps you inside and out. Choosing the right foods can help you sleep better and stress less. The Houston Food Bank’s mission is to get the right foods into the hands of Houstonians everywhere. Badge included.

Who: Cadettes Where: Houston Food Bank When: July 28, 10 – 11:30 a.m.

Cost: $18/girl Min./Max.: 10/20 Contact: Liz Atton, latton@sjgs.org or 713-292-0269

20 July/August 2018 l The Golden Link

Are you headed to a day/twilight camp this summer?

Send us your photos! Email them to communications@sjgs.org.

Put in the subject line the name of the day camp. We might feature your photo in the March/April Golden Link!

Activities

Highest Awards Gold Award Orientation All girls who plan to earn their Gold Award must attend Gold Award Orientation to get started on the process.

Adult Gold Award Orientation is offered on the same dates, at the same times and same locations as the girl orientations.

Register the same way you would register for the girl session. No drop-ins!

Please be prompt. Girls are encouraged to complete one Senior or Ambassador Journey before attending orientation.

Who: Seniors and Ambassadors or girls in grades

9 – 12 and adults Where: Girl Scout Center, Houston When: July 21, 10 a.m. – noon; August 19, 2 – 4 p.m.

Cost: Deadline: One week prior $5/person Min./Max.: 15/45 girls, 10/30 adults Contact: goldaward@sjgs.org, 713-292-0300 Important reminder: The Gold Award has gone paperless.

Remember that submissions should be sent directly to Gold Award advisors via email by downloading our online forms. This applies for all highest awards. The deadlines for submitting Gold Award Initial Applications and Final Reports are the first and fifteenth of each month.

This ensures that your project will be reviewed at that month’s meeting.

If you wish to present at that meeting, please contact your Gold Award advisor. Visit www.gssjc.org /goldaward.

History Juliette’s Treasure Chests These kits hold a variety of items – from girl or adult GSUSA uniforms through the decades to international girl uniforms!

There is also a treasure chest filled with materials to transport girls back to the time of Juliette “Daisy” Low. Or checkout "The Golden Eaglet," a silent film on DVD about the beginning of the Girl Scout Movement.

Who: All Girl Scouts Cost: $12 + $25 deposit for Treasure Chests; $1 + $10

deposit for DVDs Reserve: Use reservation form (which includes information

on the reservation process) at gssjc.org/musuem Contact: Melissa Hardy history@sjgs.org, 713-292-0376

Are you ready for the 2018 Fall Product Program?

See more information on the inside back cover of this issue and in an upcoming email.

It's not too late to sign up for summer camp!

Sessions available through July.

Sign up at gssjc.org/summercamp July/August 2018 l The Golden Link 21

Activities

Horseback Riding Love horses? Plan to learn about grooming and riding horses at camp!

Camp Misty Meadows: Love, Hug and Groom sessions are for troops from Daisy through Ambassador level and provide an introduction to horse grooming.

Horseback riding is available for Junior through Ambassador level troops. Both Love, Hug and Groom and horseback riding sessions are available nearly every weekend throughout the school year.

Workshops to earn the Horseback Riding Badge Workshops for Juniors will be available in the fall and next spring. If you're interested in helping to teach horse-related skills to other girls, SPURS training is available at resident camp and specific weekends during the school year. More details will be provided in upcoming issues of The Golden Link.

Mark your calendars: Oct. 6, Nov. 10, Dec. 15: Horseback Riding Badge Workshops for Juniors Nov. 3 – 4 New SPURS training

Sports Rifle Program General information for all three activities listed below Who: Girl Scouts 12 – 18 years old Where: Camp Robinwood, Willis When: Aug. 11, Sept. 8, Oct. 13, Nov. 10, Dec. 8,

Jan. 12, Feb. 9, March 9, April 13, May 11 Cost: $8/session Deadline: Two weeks prior to event Contact: Carrie Seals, cseals@sjgs.org, 713-292-0312

Introduction to Rifle Program Trained instructors will guide you as you first learn basic firearm safety and the proper way to handle a rifle. You will receive your own pair of safety glasses and learn to shoot at the bench rest position. A completed Rifle Program Permission Slip (F-601) is required for participation. This form is only needed once. It will be held on file for future rifle sessions.

Time:

STARS Program at Camp Myra S. Pryor The STARS program is for individual girls and troops interested in learning to ride. Girls in grades 5–12 can be introduced to horse skills by attending Saddlehorns (Level I) and advance through Wranglers (Level III).

Mark your calendars: Sept. 21 – 23 STARS Training Sept. 28 – 30 Saddlehorns Oct. 12 – 14 Wranglers Oct. 19 – 21 Rustlers Nov. 2 – 4 Saddlehorns More details including schedules will be provided in upcoming issues of The Golden Link.

Registrations will open for these activities in August. To register for any of the horse-related activities, go to www.gssjc.org/activities and search for horse. Please note that all activities are dependent on weather, and weight limits apply for riding.

After you have attended your Introduction to Rifle Program session, you may register for any Rifle Marksmanship session. At these sessions you will learn more shooting positions and how to improve your shooting skills in each.

Remember to bring your safety glasses.

Time:

1:30 – 3 p.m.

Min./Max: 4/12

G.R.I.T.: Girls, Rifles, Instruction and Training Rifle Program Interest Group If after attending any Rifle Marksmanship session you decide you would like more from your rifle program experience, then the Rifle Program Interest Group could be for you! At these sessions you will learn more about how to use the rifle, how to improve your accuracy through shooting position form and how to work within a team. Inter group and individual competitions could be part of your session. The group at each session will help decide on the day’s activities. Remember to bring your safety glasses.

Spaces still available!

22 July/August 2018 l The Golden Link

Min./Max: 4/12

Rifle Marksmanship

Time:

Day Camps at Casa Mare or Agnes Arnold

noon – 1:30 p.m.

9 – 11:30 a.m.

Min./Max: 5/18

Finish out your summer with a week of day camp at Camp Casa Mare or Camp Agnes Arnold. Enjoy all the fun of day camp and resident camp in one week. Enjoy arts and crafts, games, swimming, archery (Brownies and up) and working on your Outdoor Journey. Optional sleep-over on Thursday to experience cooking over a fire, nighttime activities and singing around the campfire. Camp is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Ask about bus options to Casa from Program Place.

Cost is $210, includes lunch.

Activities

Dash Soccer Clinic Join Houston’s professional women’s soccer players in a soccer clinic! Do you know what a cruyff is? Maybe a maradona or elastico? These are all names of famous soccer moves! This clinic is an amazing opportunity to build on your soccer skills, practice running drills and scrimmage with your friends. Bring your water bottle and energy to this fun clinic. Price includes a ticket to the Experience Dash Soccer game on Aug. 25.

Who: All levels Where: Houston Sport Park When: Aug, 12, 10 a.m. –noon Cost: $25/girl, $18/adult Min./Max.: 25/75 Contact: Kara Powers, kpowers@sjgs.org, 713-292-0209

Experience Dash Soccer Show your Girl Scout spirit and get the full Dash soccer experience. Girls and their families will get the VIP treatment as they rally the team in a pre-game tunnel and have a meet-andgreet with the players after the game! Come out to Girl Scout night at the Dash BBVA Compass Stadium.

Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:

All levels and adults BBVA Compass Stadium, Houston Aug. 25, 6 –10 p.m. $18/person Min./Max.: 50/250 Kara Powers, kpowers@sjgs.org, 713-292-0209

STEM Contact: Kelli Cavenah, kcavenah@sjgs.org, 713-292-0271

Robotics Competition Teams GSSJC’s robotics teams compete through the international FIRST organization where girls build and code models and robots that compete against other teams in the area. Competition typically runs September – December/January but may extend through February depending on the level/success of the team.

Please review the online signup page for detailed information about what girls do during the competition season. Individual girls will have the opportunity to join teams geographically.

Existing troops can also form a team as part of their troop activities for the year!

Who: Cost:

Daisies - Ambassadors (troops and individuals) $40-$80/girl, dependent on level

Roller Coaster Workshop Put engineering in motion with the new Roller Coaster Design Challenge badge. In this workshop, Daisies delve into engineering and motion by building and testing a roller coaster. Girls will explore how roller coasters work and how to design, build and test a new construction as well! Daisies will earn their Roller Coaster Design Challenge badge through this workshop.

Who: Where: When: Cost:

Daisies Program Place for Girls, Houston July 21, 10 a.m. – noon $15

Robotics Competition Team Informational Meeting Competing on a robotics team is a fantastic way for girls to explore collaboration and fun science topics while honing their engineering and coding skills. Adults/leaders of girls who are interested in participating on a Girl Scout robotics competition team should attend this informational meeting to learn more about the competition program. This informational meeting will go over timing, commitment, content, what girls do, what a typical season looks like and more. This meeting is meant for those new to Girl Scout robotics or relatively new to robotics in general.

Who: Where: When: Cost:

Adults of Daisies - Ambassadors Program Place for Girls, Houston Aug. 4, 10:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Free (all adults must register)

Important Dates: August 4: Parents of interested girls should attend informational sessions listed below.

August 12: Team signup deadline. Preference is given to returning teams to stay together. Teams are formed as registrations come in (spots are first-come, first-serve). Signing up at the end of the signup period leaves placement subject to available team spots which may not be in your geographic area. Teams, once full, may begin meeting on a TBD-by-team schedule over the summer. Once a team is full and coaches are in place, they will be contacted to confirm a full roster. At that time, communication will take place about acquiring supplies and beginning meetings. Location, day of week, and time of meetings are set by coaches and will vary by team.

August – December/January: Competition season. Teams meet weekly; location, day of week and time of meetings are set by coaches and will vary by team. The season may be longer based on the league and/or team success. Girls and parents should expect that teams will meet at least once a week (typically on a weekend) for 2-4 hours depending on the level.

Think Like a Programmer Journey Discover how creativity can help you solve a difficult problem.

During this workshop, you will find out how to persist and think about things in a new way. You'll even discover what coding and algorithms are. Find out how every-day problems are resolved by programmers, and try it out yourself. Girls complete all Journey requirements except the Take Action Project.

Who: Daisies Where: Idea Lab – Spring Branch When: Nov. 10, 9 a.m. – noon Cost: $23

Model Car Workshop Designing and testing is the name of the game in this workshop where Daisies earn the Model Car Design Challenge badge through this workshop. Girls explore engineering, friction, and more when they build and test a model car. A badge is provided in the cost of this workshop.

Who: When: Where:

Daisies Dec. 1, 10 a.m. – noon Idea Lab – Energy Corridor

July/August 2018 l The Golden Link 23

Activities

Computer Expert Workshops

Think Like a Citizen Scientist Journey

Brownies who sign up for this workshop will be able to learn about the basics of using a computer, including how to make art, share information and find incredible facts. .

Who: Brownies Where: Microsoft Stores at Galleria and The Woodlands When/Location:

July 15, 2 – 4 p.m., The Woodlands

July 28, 10 a.m. – noon, The Woodlands

August 5, 1 – 3 p.m., Galleria Cost: $10, cost covers Girl Scout program fees

Girls will practice the scientific method by undertaking a citizen science project. They will make observations, collect data and work with scientists who provide feedback on research and findings. This activity will cover the observation skills, making field notes and citizen science project activities within the Journey.

Take Action Project ideas will be discussed but not completed.

The Think Like a Citizen Scientist badge will be provided.

Create Your Reality Discover how force and direction can impact how object move in virtual reality. Girls will utilize Osmo kits to guide a ball through digital space and onto a target. They will also have the chance to race cars digitally by controlling the physics and motions behind the cars.

Who: Brownies Where: Program Place for Girls, Houston When: July 29, 1 – 3 p.m.

Cost: $15

Who: Brownies Where: Camp Agnes Arnold, Conroe When: Nov. 2 – 4 Cost: $45

Product Designer Badge Workshop Explore and create innovations in the Children’s Museum Maker Annex. You will get the chance to investigate what makes products great, how to improve products already on the market and more. The best part is that you will be able to be an innovator yourself and troubleshoot your solution.

Who: Where: When: Cost:

Juniors Children’s Museum of Houston Aug. 4, Dec. 8; noon – 2:15 p.m. $15

Fling Flyer Workshop Brownies will learn about the forces that affect flight as they design, build and test a fling flyer. Through this workshop, girls learn how to design, investigate and revise after each assessment.

Brownies will earn their Fling Flyer Design Challenge badge through this workshop.

Paddle Boat Workshop

Who: Brownies When: August 11, 9 am. – noon Where: Idea Lab, Energy Corridor Cost: $23

Who: Juniors Aug. 18, 9 a.m. – noon When: Where: Idea Lab – Spring Branch Cost: $23

Space Out

Balloon Car Workshop

Get ready to have some fun at camp while doing hands-on activities to explore the universe. Let's have an out-of-this-world time with scavenger hunts, games, cookies and the planetarium.

GSSJC is hosting a journey through space that girls are sure not to forget.

Dive into this new Junior badge! Engineer your way through designing, building and testing a boat that floats in this workshop. You will also get the chance to explore a way to make your boat move through the water and assess how well it works.

A badge is provided in the cost of this workshop.

Get blown away by this new Junior badge! Energy surrounds you every day. In this workshop, learn to harness potential and kinetic energy. Also learn how air interact with objects and how you can use it to your advantage. After designing a power source for a car, you will get to test it out. A badge is provided in the cost of this workshop.

Who: Brownies and Juniors When: Sept. 15, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Where: Camp Misty Meadows, Conroe Cost: $20

Juniors Who: When: Sept. 8, 9 a.m. – noon Where: Idea Lab – Energy Corridor Cost: $23

Home Scientist

Entertainment Technology Workshop

You’re a scientist every time you do an experiment! In this workshop, you’ll find out where science has been hiding in your home through density, static electricity and more. Be a kitchen chemist and play with science at Idea Lab! A badge is provided in the cost of this workshop.

Who: Brownies Where: Idea Lab – Energy Corridor When: Oct. 20, 10 a.m. - noon Cost: $23 Contact: Kelli Cavenah, kcavenah@sjgs.org, 713-292-0271 24 July/August 2018 l The Golden Link

Connect to your favorite entertainment through exploring the technology behind it! Technology isn’t always computers and screens – it is also how things are made and tested. Discover a hands-on approach to technology through constructing an animation, experimenting with centrifugal course and making 3D glasses.

Who: Juniors Where: Children’s Museum of Houston When: Sept. 8, noon – 2:15 p.m.

Cost: $15

Activities

Crane Design Workshop Construct some fun with this new Junior badge! Explore simple machines and then use your knowledge to build a crane prototype that you will test with household items like batteries, pennies, marbles and more. Expand your design and make it even better with adjustments after brainstorming with fellow Juniors. A badge is provided in the cost of this workshop.

Who: Juniors When: Sept. 22, 9 a.m. - noon Where: Idea Lab - Spring Branch Cost: $23

Digital Movie Maker Workshops Movies tell stories, and this workshop will help you tell your own tale! This is your chance to show others how you see the world while you utilize fun and innovative software and your own videos.

Who: Cadettes Where: Microsoft Stores at Galleria and The Woodlands When: July 29, 1 – 3 p.m.; Galleria

Aug. 4,10 a.m. – noon; The Woodlands Cost: $10, cost covers Girl Scout program fees

Woodworker Badge Workshop Make stylish or useful things for yourself and others in this fun woodworker workshop. Develop and refine your do-it-yourself skills with a hammer, saw, level and creating a fantastic and unique piece of your own design. Girl Scouts have been learning about woodworking for more than 100 years, and now you can too.

Who: Where: When: Cost:

Cadettes Children’s Museum of Houston July 22 and Nov. 3; noon – 2:15 p.m. $15

Room Makeover Workshop In this workshop, you’ll discover design concepts and fix-it tactics needed to turn a simple space into a creative statement.

You’ll develop some serious DIY flair by combining color, texture, glue and paint while getting hands on and engineering great pieces for your room. You will get the chance to paint a small wooden piece you’ll bring with you, sew or glue a fabric accent, build something and make an old item new again.

Badge is provided to girl attendees.

Who: Seniors Where: Children’s Museum Houston July 21 and Oct. 6, noon – 2:15 p.m.

When: Cost: $15

Catching Flight This exciting new event will take Seniors and Ambassadors on an adventure while they explore aeronautics and astronautics. Girls will get the chance to learn from experts in the field, discover the science behind flight and build (and keep) their own drone!

Who: When: Where: Cost:

Seniors and Ambassadors July 22; 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Creativity Shell Makerspace, Kingwood $40, drone included

Forensics Weekend – Save the Date!

Come solve a "whodunit" mystery at camp in an exciting annual event! Girls will discover forensic techniques such as DNA analysis, suspect identification, fingerprint analysis and more!

Teams of Cadettes will scope out clues to solve a mystery during a weekend at camp.

Who: Cadettes Where: Camp Casa Mare, Seabrook When: Nov 30 – Dec 2 Cost: $45/girl; $15/dorm chaperone (must be female) Note: Registration will be available Oct. 1

Travel Council Trip to London and Paris Informational Meeting We have just a few remaining spots available for our fabulous trip to London and Paris in June of 2019. Attend this informational meeting to find out more about this nine-day adventure including a visit to Pax Lodge (a WAGGGS World Center), Disneyland Europe and many historical sites along the way. The session is available for current 6th graders (those going into 8th grade or higher in fall 2019). This is a girl trip being chaperoned by two well-seasoned GSSJC volunteers.

Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:

Girls currently entering 7th grade and older Girl Scout Center, Houston Aug. 18, 2 – 4 p.m.

Free to attend Liz Atton, 713-292-0269, latton@sjgs.org

Contact: Kelli Cavenah, kcavenah@sjgs.org, 713-292-0271

July/August 2018 l The Golden Link 25

Activities

Health and Safety Weekend 2018 Take one training or stay for the whole weekend!

Health and Safety Weekend is an opportunity for a fun weekend filled with various activities and programs. Girls and adults can choose their own adventure by scheduling sessions throughout the weekend, adding in meals and overnight accommodations. There is something for everyone, whether you’re ready to spend the weekend at camp or prefer to spend just a few hours. Feel free to register for one event or several.

Who: All girls and adults When: Aug. 3 – 5 Location: Camp Agnes Arnold, Conroe For more information contact Liz Atton, latton@sjgs.org, 713-292-0269 How to register: Step 1: Go to gssjc.org/activities, search Health and Safety Weekend Step 2: Pick one, two or several courses Step 3: If taking sessions on multiple days, choose to stay overnight for only $5 per night Step 4: Add meals for just $6 per meal Step 5: Grab your friends and make this a great weekend!

Schedule of trainings. Plan out your weekend.

Friday Evening

Saturday a.m.

Saturday p.m.

Canoe Certification Training Babysitting Full First Aid Program Aid Instructor Training Archery Instructor Blended First Aid-Session 1

Blended First Aid- Session 2

Blended First Aid-Session 3

Useful Wild Plants - Younger Girls

Useful Wild Plants-Older girls

Swim Level Testing-Session 1

Swim Level Testing-Session 2

Paddle Practice-Session 1

Paddle Practice-Session 2

Master of Disaster-Session 1

Master of Disaster-Session 2

Program Aide Training All the information you need on the trainings. If your session doesn't included overnight accommodations, just add when you sign up for $5 per night. Same for meals. When you register sign up for meals.

(Sat. breakfast, lunch and dinner; Sun. breakfast) $6 per meal.

Session

Audience

Start/End

Price

What’s included?

Canoe Certification Training

Adult only

Fri. 7 p.m. – Sun.11 a.m.

$100

Session, three meals Sat., breakfast Sun., overnight accommodations

Babysitting Training

Girls 11 and older

Sat. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

$60

Session and Saturday lunch

Full First Aid/CPR/AED Training Girls 12 and older; adults

Sat. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

$65

Session and Saturday lunch

Blended Learning First Aid/CPR/ Girls 12 and older; adults AED Training

Session 1: Fri. 7 – 9 p.m.

Session 2: Sat. 10 a.m. - noon Session 3: Sat. 2 – 4 p.m.

$55

Session only

Useful Wild Plants

Daisy, Brownie, Junior

Sat. 10 a.m. - noon

$20

Session only

Useful Wild Plants

Cadette, Senior, Ambassador, Adult

Sat. 2 – 4 p.m.

$20

Session only

Swim Level Testing

ALL LEVELS

Session 1: Sat. 9:30 a.m.-noon Session 2: Sat. 1 - 3:30 p.m.

$20

Session only

Paddle Practice

ALL LEVELS

Session 1: Sat. 10 a.m. – noon Session 2: Sat. 2 – 4 p.m.

$20

Session only

Archery Instructor School

Girls 16 and older; adults

Sat. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

$85

Session and Sat. lunch

Masters of Disaster

Daisy, Brownie, Junior

Session 1: Sat. 9:30 a.m. – noon $20 Session 2: Sat. 1 – 3:30 p.m.

Session only

Program Aide Training

Cadette

Sat. 1 – 5 p.m.

$20

Session only

Program Aide Instructor Training Adult

Sat. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

$15

Session and Saturday lunch

Volunteer-In-Training (VIT)

Sat. 9:30 – 11 a.m.

$15

Session Only

Seniors and Ambassadors

26 July/August 2018 l The Golden Link

Activities

Descriptions of Health and Safety Weekend sessions: WEEKEND LONG SESSIONS: These courses take place Friday night through Sunday mid-morning.

They include four meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner on Saturday and breakfast on Sunday). They also include overnight accommodations at camp Friday and Saturday nights. Must be present the entire time.

• Canoeing Certification Training: This training is needed to take girls canoeing on council camp properties and is for adults only. Session will cover Level 1 training from the American Canoe Association. Must be able to demonstrate swimming skills Friday night.

FRIDAY NIGHT SESSIONS: These courses take place Friday night. If you select one of these courses and do not include any meals or overnight accommodations.

• Blended Learning First Aid/CPR/AED Training: Red Cross Standard First Aid is great for everyone to know. This certification allows an adult to serve as a level 1 first aider and covers minor bumps and scrapes up to strokes and heart attacks.

Students will be prepared to save a life. This session is a blended learning offering where participants watch course videos ahead of time on their own schedule and then meet to show their skills at this session.

ALL DAY SATURDAY SESSIONS: These courses take place all day Saturday. If you select one of these courses, you will not be able to take another course on Saturday.

These sessions include lunch on Saturday but do not include overnight accommodations.

• Babysitting Training: Learn the basics of babysitting including everything from how to take care of a baby, feed a baby, change a diaper and more. Girls will learn how to market their new skills, important child development milestones and how to stay safe on the job.

• Full First Aid/CPR/AED Training: Red Cross Standard First Aid is great for everyone to know. This certification allows an adult to serve as a level 1 first aider and covers minor bumps and scrapes up to strokes and heart attacks. Students will be prepared to save a life. This session is completely done in person.

• Archery Instructor School: If you want to facilitate archery for your troop, Community or Region, this is the training for you.

Learn everything you need to know about shooting archery and facilitating girls on how to shoot safely.

• Program Aide Instructor Training: Adults who wish to facilitate Program Aide trainings are welcome to attend this session. We will cover the basics in the morning, break for lunch, then get hands on practice training girls in the afternoon Program Aide session. Program Aides and Program Aide instructors are in high demand for council trainings and day camps.

SATURDAY MORNING SESSIONS: These sessions take place Saturday morning and do not include any meals or overnight accommodations. Make it a full weekend by pairing these sessions with Saturday afternoon sessions (below) and adding meals and overnight accommodations.

• Blended Learning First Aid/CPR/AED Training: Red Cross Standard First Aid is great for everyone to know. This certification allows an adult to serve as a level 1 first aider and covers minor bumps and scrapes up to strokes and heart attacks.

Students will be prepared to save a life. This session is a blended learning offering where participants watch course videos ahead of time on their own schedule and then meet to show their skills at this session.

• Useful Wild Plants: If you’ve ever walked through your garden or a local wildlife area, you may have spotted some plants with uses other than looking pretty or smelling nice. Many of our spices and essential oils come from the plants we see. This session covers Useful Wild Plants, how to find them and how to use them. Morning session is for Daisies, Brownies and Juniors and their chaperones. Adults will serve as chaperones in the morning session.

Swim Level Testing: Get your swim level testing and safe boating cards. This session is designed to test girls for swim level testing through the Red Cross levels 1-6. We will also administer the GSSJC Safe Boating Test. Girls who wish to canoe in girl scouts require a level 3 swim card and those who wish to sail would need a level 4 swim card. This session is designed for beginners through advanced girls but not intended for non-swimmers.

• Paddle Practice: I can canoe, can you? Girls and adults can join this session to spend some quality time on the lake. Paddle around to explore or challenge your friends to a race. Girls who wish to canoe must have a level 3 swim card and GSSJC safe boating card or they must have an adult in the boat with them. Adults who will canoe must register as well.

• Masters of Disaster: Are you a master of earth, wind and fire?

Would you like to be better prepared in the event of a natural disaster? Join us as we explore the science side of natural disasters like hurricanes and floods as well as how to prepare for a weather event.

SATURDAY AFTERNOON SESSIONS: These sessions take place Saturday afternoon and do not include any meals or overnight accommodations. Make it a full weekend by pairing these sessions with Saturday morning sessions (above) and adding meals and overnight accommodations.

• Blended Learning First Aid/CPR/AED Training: Red Cross Standard First Aid is great for everyone to know. This certification allows an adult to serve as a level 1 first aider and covers minor bumps and scrapes up to strokes and heart attacks. Students will be prepared to save a life. This session is a blended learning offering where participants watch course videos ahead of time on their own schedule and then meet to show their skills at this session.

• Useful Wild Plants: If you’ve ever walked through your garden or a local wildlife area, you may have spotted some plants with uses other than looking pretty or smelling nice. Many of our spices and essential oils come from the plants we see. This session covers Useful Wild Plants, how to find them and how to use them.

Afternoon session is geared for Cadettes, Seniors, Ambassadors and adults. Adults will be invited to participate hands on in the afternoon session.

• Swim Level Testing: Get your swim level testing and safe boating cards. This session is designed to test girls for swim level testing through the Red Cross levels 1-6. We will also administer the GSSJC Safe Boating Test. Girls who wish to canoe in girl scouts require a level 3 swim card and those who wish to sail would need a level 4 swim card. This session is designed for beginners through advanced girls but not intended for non-swimmers.

• Paddle Practice: I can canoe, can you? Girls and adults can join this session to spend some quality time on the lake. Paddle around to explore or challenge your friends to a race. Girls who wish to canoe must have a level 3 swim card and GSSJC safe boating card or they must have an adult in the boat with them. Adults who will canoe must register as well.

• Masters of Disaster: Are you a master of earth, wind and fire?

Would you like to be better prepared in the event of a natural disaster? Join us as we explore the science side of natural disasters like hurricanes and floods as well as how to prepare for a weather event.

• Program Aide Training: This teen mentoring program is geared towards Cadettes who have completed a LiA (Leader in Action) award. Girls will learn how to work with younger girls and serve as a leader. Program Aides are in high demand at council and community events and they play a major role at day camps too.

• Volunteer-In-Training (VIT): This award is for girls who would like to mentor a Daisy, Brownie, Junior or Cadette group outside of the camp experience. If you’ve completed ninth grade, you’re eligible to earn this award. Your VIT project will span a threeto-six month period. Use your passion to create and implement a thoughtful program based on a Journey or badge!

•

July/August 2018 l The Golden Link 27

Columns

Get Ready for the Fall Volunteer Conference 2018

Adult Trainings

Nov. 9 – 11 Camp Agnes Arnold, Conroe Mark your calendar now! The Fall Volunteer Conference is the premier training event for the fall and you don’t want to miss it! The conference provides an assortment of workshops in the areas of troop management and support, enrichments, outdoor and STEM. You can expect an awesome learning experience coupled with exciting adventures all in one weekend!

Troop leaders from the 2017 conference named networking as the number one highlight of the weekend and raved about the sessions on Journeys, STEM, meeting management and songs.

Here’s what some other participants had to say about their experience: • “I loved it all…wonderful food, selection of activities, theme choice, camp selection…had a fantastic weekend.”

• “Lots of fun this year and plenty of time to talk to other leaders.”

• “Thought it was amazing. The food was excellent too.”

• “I was extremely excited that my daughter loved the classes and wants to come again.”

Registration information will be in the September/October issue of The Golden Link and online soon.

Event Magic

Join us for a fun day of workshops and networking with other Community, Region and council event committees. Event Magic will provide practical hands-on experiences for planning events for large groups. Bring your committee and workshop presenters to take advantage of all the workshops.

This event is open to adults and Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors interested in planning and presenting magical events for their Community, Region or council.

Enjoy the following workshops in two sessions together: • Games – Group games in a variety of environments and group sizes • Songs – Sing, Sing, Sing - teach and lead songs like a pro Choose from the following courses in three sessions (bring your event team to cover all the workshops): • Campfires – Lead campfires for fun and memories • Event Logistics – Parking, moving participants, assigning units and kapers, promotion and more • Outdoor Cooking – Great ideas on how to coordinate outdoor cooking workshops • Ceremonies – Organizing ceremonies for the event such as openings, closings and flag ceremonies • Crafts – Ready, Set, Go – getting ready for event craft workshops Where: Girl Scout Center, Houston When: July 28, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Cost: $12 Deadline: July 22 Contact: Porscha Jackson, 713-292-0285, pjackson@sjgs.org Note: Event Magic does not replace the requirement for Event Basics and Weekend Event training for event chairs. Girls must be

accompanied by an adult.

Mentoring Days

Supporting troop leaders is an essential role of Community service teams. Mentoring Days are ideal for mentor team leads, troop mentors, the Café Team and anyone who will be involved in providing ongoing training and support to both new and seasoned leaders.

This mini-training day includes the two classes listed below and time for a buzz group discussion to share best practices and ideas.

Courses Included: • The Many Faces of Mentoring–Explores the different mentoring program strategies and helps you assess which one will be the most

effective in your Community.

• C.A.F.E Care and Feeding–Designed for Café Team members to explore ways to use Cafés to educate, motivate and retain your volunteers.

Dates: Sunday, Sept. 9 (This will be the last offering for 2018, so please register now) Location: Girl Scout Center, Houston Cost: $10

Questions about training registration? Contact 713-292-0300 or registration@sjgs.org.

28 July/August 2018 l The Golden Link

Columns

Summer Train-In Days Saturday, July 14

Check in begins at 8 a.m.

The first class begins at 8:30 a.m.

Cost: $15 Place: Girl Scout Center, Houston Note: Lunch is not provided. Please, no children at this event. Childcare is not offered and classroom space for children is not

available during the sessions.

Class descriptions. See next page for timeline and codes for signing up.

Addressing Younger Girls’ Challenging Behavior - Troop management is an acquired skill, so pat yourself on the back for your journey so far. During this class, you will learn to step back and examine your troop meetings for girl behavior through the setup, schedules, routines, transitions and environment. Have you heard the phrase, "Tell me what you want, not what you don't want?"

Discover how to increase and implement positive reframing into your everyday conversations.

Building Awesome Daisy or Brownie Meetings - Daisies and Brownies are ready to take on the world and you can help them get there with well-organized, fun-filled meetings. This hands-on class will help you develop meetings that calm the chaos by harnessing the tools of games, crafts, songs and tapping into your prime resource - parents. Look forward to a happier you and more fun for the girls.

Daisy/Brownie Program Leadership Training - This training is an interactive classroom course designed for leaders who are new to the troop leadership role working with girls in grades K-3.

Leaders will learn how to work with girls in a girl-led, learning by doing environment that will incorporate Girl Scout program from two levels – Daisy and Brownie. Participants can see the progression in characteristics of each age group and learn about earned awards, troop government, field trip and service project readiness, ceremonies and more with the use of available program resources.

This course includes information about the National Program Portfolio presented in “Getting Started with the Girl Guides and Journeys.”

Extended Troop Travel and Finance - Is your troop ready for a trip of three nights or more?

Learn how to guide older girls in planning their grand adventure. Progression, paperwork, troop contracts, financing and more will be the focus of this workshop. For leaders of older Juniors through Ambassadors.

Getting Started with the Girl Guides and Journeys - Are you overwhelmed with where to start when using the program resources with girls? Join us in this workshop to understand how the National Program Portfolio materials are the tools that help you support the Girl Scout mission and program. Learn about the earned awards, including badges, Journey awards and other recognitions. These materials make Girl Scouting unique and provide progression in developing skills and leadership in girls. This information is duplicated in the Daisy/Brownie Program Leadership Training.

Girl Scout Traditions and Ceremonies - Do you know the Girl Scout handshake or handclap?

Have you wondered the importance of the Girl Scout ceremonies? This workshop will cover Girl Scouting traditions, not only what they are but what gave birth to them. Also learn about ceremonies for all levels, including bridging, fly-up, court of awards and many others. You’ll get tips to help guide the girls in planning ceremonies for those special Girl Scout times.

Girl Progression in Finances - As girls progress in program levels, finances is no exception. Discover ways to guide girls in the everyday workings of their troop finances, budget for activities and their annual goals.

Learn strategies for stepping back and letting the girls take the lead.

Make the World a Better Place - How can service become more than parents picking up canned goods to donate? Learn to inspire girls to plan meaningful service projects, guide them to discover the root cause of an issue and how to elevate simple service to a Take Action project?

Come to this workshop and walk away with a better understanding of the difference between a service project and a Take Action project and gain ideas for service for all Girl Scout levels.

Mechanical Engineering for Daisy/Brownie - Learn about the engineering design process and how to incorporate using household objects.

Daisy Board Game, Model Car and Roller Coaster badges plus the Brownie Fling Flyer, Leap Bot and Race Car badges will be reviewed.

Both the GoldieBlox and DIY (Do It Yourself) versions of these badges will be covered. You will get to test out your own design in this session.

Mechanical Engineering for Juniors Get ready to explore the new Balloon Car, Paddle Wheel, and Crane Design Mechanical Engineering badges for Juniors. Learn about the engineering design process and how to introduce your troop to these fun, hands on activities. Plus build your own prototype during this session.

Money Management for Troops - Are troop finances a mystery to you? Do you understand what all the paperwork is for? This course will provide basic information to help you and the girls manage the troop account. You will also get information on when and how you can apply for money-earning activities, solicit troop donations or receive a volunteer involvement grant from an employer and how to stay in good standing with the Council as a leader. For troop leaders and/or treasurers.

Partnering with Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors - In this interactive classroom course, leaders will learn their role as an advisor to girls who are in grades 6-12. Gain insight on how girls this age think, guide them in girl planning and when to step back so girls can develop leadership skills. Discover ways to become teen savvy, how to talk to girls about the 3 T’s (Touchy Teen Topics) and the importance of maintaining confidentiality with troop members.

Note: information on the National Program Portfolio is presented in the course “Getting Started with the Girl Guides and Journeys.

Information on earning the Silver Award is now in a separate course and is not included.

Partnering with Juniors - Adults new to the troop leadership role or who are moving from the Brownie level are encouraged to attend this

course. This interactive classroom course designated for the Junior leader will provide specifics on working with girls in grades 4-5 and includes various forms of troop government, characteristics of the girls, the girl/adult partnership, tips on girl planning and more. Information on the National Program Portfolio is presented in the course “Getting Started with the Girl Guides and Journeys" and is not included.

Partnering with Parents - Troops with strong parent support are more successful and have volunteers with less burnout. Learn how to nurture the right type of parent involvement and engage them in our organization. Topics include the yearly parent meeting, developing a communication strategy, how to ask for help and setting appropriate expectations through the troop leader/parent agreement.

STEM Journeys Daisy/Brownie- Ready to teach your girls how to Think Like An Engineer, Citizen Scientist or Programmer? This session will review the new STEM Journeys and how to incorporate these hands-on activities into your troop meetings plus the Take Action Project. Plus get to try out one of the Citizen Science projects during this session.

STEM Journeys for Juniors- Have you wanted to Think Like An Engineer, Citizen Scientist, or Programmer? Explore the new STEM Journey Badge requirements and learn how to introduce the Take Action Project to complete a full Journey. Get ready for your own hands-on fun in this session.

Silver Award Training- This course is focused on ways for troop leaders and/or parents to support girls working on their Girl Scout Silver Award.

Topics cover guidelines for a Silver Award project, preparation, tracking, coaching tips, resources and GSSJC required paperwork.

What to do Instead of Banning Cell Phones - This course is about strategies for getting Juniors through Ambassadors to own the expectations, behaviors and discipline in their troop. Adults tend to get frustrated when girls miss planning meetings and come only to the fun, when girls appear to be texting during meetings instead of contributing and other older girl behavior. Discuss ideas to guide girls to create the behavior contract they want for full ownership of their troop as well as how to let go as a troop leader.

What’s New with VTK? - GSSJC will launch the Volunteer Toolkit (VTK) – Finances Tab soon. This new tool is designed to provide more transparency at the troop/group level and to provide troops/groups and the council the benefit of automated reporting. This course will present a review of the functionality of this tab, including where to find resources, how to prepare for electronic submission and required information as well as how to review before submitting to the council. Updates to the VTK general functionality will also be discussed. Join us as we learn together – all that the VTK has to offer.

See next page for schedule.

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July 14 Course Timeline: Use the (#) to register for that course 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. (2A) Partnering with Girl Scout Juniors

(3A) Partnering with Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors

9 - 10:30 a.m.

(4A) Mechanical (1A) Addressing Engineering for Younger Girls’ Challenging Behavior Daisy/Brownie

10:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m

(1B) Building (2B) Getting Awesome Daisy or Started with the Brownie Meetings Girl Guides and Journeys

1 – 5 p.m.

(4 C/D) Daisy Brownie Program Leadership Training

1 - 2:30 p.m.

(1C)Make the World a Better Place

2:45 – 4:15 p.m. (1D) Girl Scout Traditions and Ceremonies

(5A) What’s New with VTK?

(3B) What to do Instead of Banning Cell Phones

(4B) STEM Journeys Daisy/Brownie

(2C) Mechanical Engineering for Juniors

(3C) Silver Award Training

(5C) Girl Progression in Finances

(2D) STEM Journeys for Juniors

(5D) Money Management for Troops

(5B) Partnering with Parents

2:45 – 4:45 p.m. (3D) Extended Troop Travel and Finance

Training Calendar

July Date Day 14 Saturday 28 Saturday August Date Day 11 Saturday 25 Saturday 25 Saturday 25 Saturday September Date Day 9 Sunday

Course Name Summer Train-in #2 Event Magic

Location GSC GSC

Time 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Cost $15 $12

Course Name FOCUS Recruitment Team Lead Registration Specialist Community Organizer Liaison

Location GSC ATC ATC ATC

Time 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

9 – 11 a.m.

11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Cost $15 $6 $6 $6

Course Name Mentoring Days

Location GSC

Time 1 – 5 p.m.

Cost $10

Location Legend/How to Get to an Adult Training AA: Camp Agnes Arnold – Conroe: I-45 North, exit League Line Road. Go east to Hwy 75 and turn left. Camp is on the right.

ATC: Adult Training Center, Camp Agnes Arnold and Misty Meadows – Conroe: Exit I-45 at League Line Road. Go east to Hwy 75 and turn left.

Camp is on the right (Camp Agnes Arnold). Follow the signs in camp to Camp Misty Meadows. Adult Training center is on the right before arriving at Camp Misty Meadows.

ATA: Ann Temple Allen Girl Scout Center – Lufkin: 1202 College Drive: US 59 North, turn at FM 819 (at Angelina College) and go two miles. Turn left at the Lufkin Center.

BSC: Beaumont Service Center (Foundation of Southeast Texas) – Beaumont: 700 North Street, Suite F: I-10 East, take exit 855A for US-90 toward downtown, turn left at North Street, building is on the left.

CASA: Camp Casa Mare – Seabrook: I-45 South to Nasa Road 1 exit. Turn east onto Nasa Road 1, continue 8 miles, crossing Highway 146 in Seabrook, onto Second Street. Continue east to the end of Second Street at Todville Road.

Turn left on Todville Road and go approximately 3 miles to camp (on your right).

CYP: Cypress, TX (TBD) GSC: Girl Scout Center – Houston: 3110 Southwest Freeway: Hwy 59 (south of downtown) Located on freeway feeder road (north side) between Kirby Drive and Buffalo Speedway. Exit Kirby Drive both ways.

30 July/August 2018 l The Golden Link

Imperial Valley Service Center – Houston: 15800 Imperial Valley Drive: I-45 North to Dallas, exit 60A toward Fallbrook Rd/Aldine Bender/ FM-525, merge onto North Freeway, right at Aldine Bender Road, right at Imperial Valley Drive. Service Center is one block on right.

KATY: Katy, TX (Location will be posted on registration site) Klein United Methodist Church – Spring: 5920 FM 2920: Located on FM 2920 (north side) between Kuykendall and Gosling Road.

LUF: Lufkin Service Center LJSC: Lake Jackson Service Center – Lake Jackson: 231 W. Highway 332: From TX-288 South, take the FM 2004 exit toward Richwood. Turn right onto FM 2004 South. Turn right on to TX-332. The service center is the first building on the left. (on stilts) St. Paul’s Episcopal Church – Katy: 5373 Franz Rd. From I-10, turn North on Katy Fort Bend Rd., turn West on Franz Rd., the church is on the left (across from Hutsell Elementary School).

TOM: Tomball, TX (TBD) UWFtB: United Way-Fort Bend, Stafford, TX WAM: Camp Wind-A-Mere – Alvin: I-45 South, exit FM 517. Turn right on McFarland Road.

Columns

Camp Certification Training Schedule 2018-2019 Camp Certification and Camp Certification with Extra Experience Date Sept. 11 Sept. 22

Day Tues.

Sat.

Course Name Camp Cert In Town (AC 9/22) Camp Cert At Camp (IT 9/11)

Sept. 18 Sept. 29

Tues.

Sat.

Camp Cert In Town (AC 9/29) Camp Cert At Camp (IT 9/18)

Sept. 24 Sept. 25 Oct. 6

Mon. Tues.

Sat.

Camp Cert In Town (AC 10/6) Camp Cert In Town (AC 10/6)

Camp Cert At Camp (IT 9/24&25)

GSC WAM WAM

Oct. 2 Oct. 13&14

Tues.

Sat./Sun.

Camp Cert In Town (AC 10/13&14) Camp Cert ExE At Camp (IT 10/2)

GSC ATC

Tues.

Tues.

Sat.

Camp Cert In Town (AC 10/20) Camp Cert In Town (AC 10/20) Camp Cert At Camp (IT 10/9)

GSC BSC ATC

7 – 10 p.m. $25 7 –10 p.m. $25 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. none

Mon. Tues.

Sat.

Camp Cert In Town (AC 11/17) Camp Cert In Town (AC 11/17) Camp Cert At Camp (IT 11/5&6)

GSC LJSC WAM

7 – 10 p.m. $25 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. $25 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. none

Mon. Tues.

Sat.

Camp Cert In Town (AC 1/19) Camp Cert In Town (AC 1/19) Camp Cert At Camp (IT 1/7&8)

TOM CYP ATC

Tues.

Sat./Sun.

Camp Cert In Town (AC 1/26&27) Camp Cert ExE At Camp (IT 1/15)

GSC ATC

or Feb. 5 Feb. 5 Feb. 16

Tues.

Tues.

Sat.

Camp Cert In Town(AC 2/16) Camp Cert In Town (AC 2/16) Camp Cert At Camp (IT 2/5)

GSC UWFtB WAM

7 p.m.–10 p.m. $25 7 – 10 p.m. $25 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. none

Feb. 18 Mar. 2

Mon. Sat.

Camp Cert In Town (AC 3/2) Camp Cert At Camp (IT 2/18)

GSC ATC

7 –10 p.m. $25 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. $25

or March 11 March 12 March 23

Mon. Tues.

Sat.

Camp Cert In Town (IT 3/23) Camp Cert In Town (IT 3/23)

Camp Cert At Camp (IT 3/11&12)

GSC BSC ATC

or

or

Oct. 9 Oct. 9 Oct. 20

or Nov. 5 Nov. 6 Nov. 17

or Jan. 7 Jan. 8 Jan. 19 Jan. 15

Jan. 26&27

Location ATC ATC

Time Cost 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. $25 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. none

GSC ATC

7 –10 p.m. $25 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. none 7 – 10 p.m. $25 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. $25 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. none 7 – 10 p.m. $25 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. none

7 – 10 p.m. $25 7 – 10 p.m. $25 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. none 7– 10 p.m. $25 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

7 –10 p.m. $25 7 – 10 p.m. $25 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. none

Apr. 15 Apr. 27

Mon. Sat.

Camp Cert In Town (AC 4/28) Camp Cert At Camp (IT 4/15)

GSC WAM

7 – 10 p.m. $25 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. none

or Apr. 30 Apr. 30 May 11

Tues.

Tues.

Sat.

Camp Cert In Town (AC 5/11) Camp Cert In Town (AC 5/11) Camp Cert At Camp (IT 4/30)

GSC LUF ATC

7 – 10 p.m. $25 7 – 10 p.m. $25 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. none

Camp Certification with Extra Experience (Overnight) Date Day Oct. 2 Tues.

Oct.13&14 Sat./Sun.

Course Name

Camp Cert w/Extra Exp In Town (AC 10/13&14) Camp Cert w/Extra Exp At Camp (10/2)

Location GSC ATC

Jan. 15 Jan. 26&27

Camp Cert w/Extra Exp In Town (1/26&27) Camp Cert w/Extra Exp At Camp (IT 2/23)

GSC ATC

Tues.

Sat./Sun.

Time

7 – 10 p.m.

8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Cost $25 none

7 – 10 p.m. $25 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. none

Outdoor Refresher (Must hold GSSJC Camp Certification already) Time: Cost: Place:

8 a.m. – 5 p.m. $20 Adult Training Center– Sept. 22, Sept. 29, Oct. 20, Jan. 19, March 2, March 23, May 11 Camp Wind-A-Mere– Oct. 6, Nov. 17, Feb. 16, April 27

Any questions regarding Camp Certification registrations may be directed to Betty Morgan, training registrar, at bmorgan@sjgs.org or 713 292–0238. For location codes and directions, see page July/August 2018 l The Golden Link 31

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FOCUS

Community and Region Service Teams Saturday, August 11 You have accepted the challenge of delivering on our promise to girls, that we will ensure Girl Scouting continues to thrive and grow stronger in the next century of the Girl Scout movement. This day has been planned to prepare you for your new role in your Community or Region service team. The trainings, resources and information will assist you with your mission: building a team of passionate volunteers who support one another and are confident leading girls into the future.

Time: Check in begins at 8 a.m. with select early sessions beginning at 8:30 a.m.

Fee: $15 for the day of training Place: Girl Scout Center, Houston Register: Online Lunch is not provided. Plan to bring your lunch and enjoy a 45 minute lunch break with administrative teams from all across our council.

Please, no children at this event. Childcare is not offered, and classroom space for children is not available during the sessions.

8:30 – 10:30 a.m.

(1A) Recruitment Team Lead– This exciting, hands-on training will give all members of your Community and Region recruitment team the tools to recruit girls and adults in your area.

Recruitment team lead and other members of the recruitment team are encouraged to attend. Topics include an introduction to GSUSA campaign materials and the resources available to you, and how to effectively connect potential members to the online troop opportunity list. In addition, learn how to organize presentations that will inspire adults and girls to join our movement. You will learn about the responsibilities of the recruitment team, suggested processes and timelines and strategies for recruitment events.

(2A) Many Faces of Mentoring– Mentoring can take many forms or "faces" and is key to retaining troop leaders. The course will explore the different mentoring programs and help you assess which one will be the most effective in your Community.

Learn about the resources available to support your chosen mentoring style and how to enhance the organic mentoring that naturally happens when leaders get together.

(3A) Community Leadership Team (CLT) Support Group– You asked for it and this is it! This CLT-only discussion offers Community leaders a forum to get to know their peers and share best practices and successes. This is also an opportunity to be informed on what is new that will affect your role. Note that this does not take the place of the CLT training: Community Leadership Team.

(5A) Community and Region Treasurer– Are you the Community or Region treasurer? This is the course for you.

Learn how to manage money including development of a proposed budget and management of income and expenditures related to the Community or Region finances. Explore ways to setup an appropriate Girl Scout bank account and use GSSJC forms relating to finance. This training is for volunteers in the Community or Region treasurer role who have not previously taken treasurer training. This training is not suitable for volunteers in the role of troop treasurer.

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9 – 10:30 a.m.

(4A) Girl Panels and Planning Board– Community and Region events are offered to enhance the girl’s experience in Girl Scouting. Offering this type of event is more successful when planned by the girls. Explore ways to get girl panels and planning boards started; help the girls make decisions, identify the right adult to lead them in their discussion and planning; incorporate their ideas into your calendar with their leading whenever possible.

10:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

(1B) Registration Specialists– The course is designed for a Community or Region registration specialist. Topics to be discussed include working with the staff partner to publish troop opportunities, tracking current membership and maintaining rosters, organizing the paperwork of the membership registration process; and understanding how to coordinate with Community organizer liaison and Region registration specialists.

(2B) Product Sales Manager Support– This class is all about how Communities and Regions can support product sales. Find out what is new with product sales for 2018-2019, and get a brief overview of any significant changes. Learn about the importance of cookie kick-off events and cookie rallies and how Communities can use these events to promote, improve and support product sales. This session does not replace fall product or troop cookie manager training.

(3B) Communication Specialists– George Bernard Shaw said "The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place." Communication with our volunteers is the key to staying engaged and informed. An overview of different communication methods and strategies will be offered.

This workshop is designed for volunteers in the Community or Region communicator role.

(5B) What’s New with VTK?– GSSJC launched the Volunteer Toolkit – Finances Tab this past May. This new tool is designed to provide more transparency at the troop/group level and to provide troops/groups and the council the benefit of automated reporting. This course will present an review of the functionality of this tab: where to find resources; how to prepare for electronic submission, required information; as well as, how to review before submitting to the council. Updates to the Volunteer Toolkit general functionality will also be discussed. Join us as we learn together – all that the Volunteer Toolkit has to offer.

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10:45 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

2:45 – 4:15 p.m.

(4B/C) Event Basics– This course will prepare you in the planning and implementation of successful events that are NOT camping or overnights. Review the nine steps to planning an event including developing the theme, recruiting committee members, creating a budget, reviewing safety guidelines, developing time lines and a schedule, promotion, evaluating and more. This course is required for all event chairs and strongly recommended for all committee members. (There will be a break for lunch during this course)

(1D) Rah Rah Rallies– Discover tips and techniques to add sparkle to your rallies and display booths and create excitement for your next recruitment event. Get your recruitment team charged to meet the challenges of this recruitment season and make it a huge success.

1 – 2:30 p.m.

(1C) Community Organizer Liaison– The goal of a Community organizer liaison is to have no girls on the waiting list for troops and all girls placed in a troop that fits their needs.

This class will focus on how to work closely with the staff Community engagement manager and volunteer registration specialists to accomplish this goal. Topics include how to manage the online troop opportunity list, tracking current membership and openings, priority placement guidelines, strategies for encouraging adults to step up to troop leadership and the troop committee and ways to keep girls engaged until they are placed.

(2C) C.A.F.E. Care And Feeding of Every Leader– Leaders need lots of care and feeding to feel successful and return to this role year after year. This course is designed for Café Team members to explore ways to use Cafés to educate, motivate, and retain your volunteers. Participants will discover how the New Leader Cafés support the required online leader training (Volunteer Basics series) and provide that important personal connection so important for new leaders to thrive in their role. Learn how Community Cafés can be a key component of mentoring leaders of all levels and how to offer a menu of choices that will offer maximum support.

(3C) Conflict Resolution– GSSJC's conflict resolution process and tools were developed to provide a consistent resolution process for all council departments, Regions and Communities.

This workshop will take you through the three-step resolution process (Think-Listen-Cooperate) and clarify how utilizing the corresponding forms will support the conflict resolution process.

2:45 – 4:45 p.m.

(2D) Thanks a Million– Appreciation is an ongoing, everyday process for anyone, anywhere, anytime. This course will provide you with information on council and national recognitions and the responsibilities of the adult recognitions committee. You will also receive tips on record keeping and ideas on how to say “Thanks a Million” for a job well done.

This workshop is designed for volunteers in the Community or Region recognition team lead roles.

(3D) Community Leadership Team (CLT) Support Group– You asked for it and this is it! This CLT-only discussion offers Community leaders a forum to get to know their peers and share best practices and successes. This is also an opportunity to be informed on what is new that will affect your role. Note that this does not take the place of the CLT training Community leadership team.

(4D) Weekend Event Planning– This course is a requirement for Community and Region event chairs planning for overnight events and encouraged for committee members. Participants will learn about the additional planning required for overnight events on or off GSSJC property. Topics include reserving a GSSJC campsite, using Safety Activity Checkpoints, recruiting additional committee members, additional step to registration and promotion of the event and more. Event Basics is the prerequisite to this course.

(5D) Community Financial Specialists– This workshop will give you the tools needed to support your Community troop/ group treasurers through Leader Cafés as well as provide tips and requirements for receiving and reviewing troop/ group annual financial reports and bank account records. This workshop is designed for volunteers wanting to serve in the Community financial specialist role and is not intended for troop leaders/treasurers.

(5C) Region Support Group– This Region-only discussion offers Region volunteers a forum to get to know their peers and share best practices and successes. This is also an opportunity to be informed on what is new that will affect your role. Note that this does not take the place of the Region orientation.

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Summer sun. Summer fun.

In our last issue we focused on staying hydrated. Now it’s time to talk about protecting our skin. You’ve noticed it’s nice outside and you get to spend more time outdoors during your summer vacation. Spending time outdoors usually means you’re spending more time in the sun. You need to protect the skin you’re in from sun damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays. What are UV rays and what can happen if I get too many? They are invisible rays that are part of the energy that comes from the sun, can burn the skin and cause skin cancer.

We want you to enjoy the time you spend outdoors, especially when you’re at one of our Girl Scout camps. Here are a few sun safety tips to help you protect your skin.

Wear Broad-Spectrum Sun Protection Factor (SPF) Sunscreen– All Day, Every Day. There’s no better time to start wearing sunscreen than summertime. When looking for a sunscreen be sure the label reads broad-spectrum as this ensures that the product can help to protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deep into the dermis, the skin's thickest layer. Unprotected exposure can lead to premature skin aging and wrinkling, and can weaken your immune system. UVB rays will usually burn the superficial layers of your skin and play a key role in the development of skin cancer. Just because you can’t see the sunshine doesn’t mean those UV rays can’t reach you.

UV rays can penetrate the clouds, even on overcast days, so be sure to apply your SPF before leaving the house.

And one application daily isn’t enough. Sunscreen must be reapplied throughout the day–typically every two hours when you’re spending time outside or near windows since UV rays can penetrate most panes. If you’re swimming or sweating, play it safe and reapply sooner than the recommended two hours. For extended outdoor activity, use a water-resistant or waterproof sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Be sure not to miss your lips, ears, around eyes, neck, hands and feet. Sunscreens are available in lotion, gel, spray, cream and stick forms. If you have sensitive skin be sure to buy a hypoallergenic sunscreen.

Seek Shade. Laying out in the warm sun to get a nice tan feels good. However, if you’re hoping to keep your skin safe from those harsh UV rays, you’ll want to limit your time out in the sun and seek shade during long periods of time outside. If you’re heading to the beach, pack along an umbrella that features UV protection. Having a picnic at the park or taking a long hike at camp? Look for a spot underneath a tree to lay out your spread or take a few minutes to rest in the shade.

Wear Protective Clothing. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, clothing is our first line of defense against the sun’s UV rays.

If you’re going to be spending lots of time outside, consider wearing lightweight clothing that can shield your skin without getting you too sweaty. Tightly woven fabrics and dark colors, such as deep blue and black, or bright colors, such as orange and red, offer more protection.

If you can see light through a fabric, UV rays can get through too. If you really want to use clothing to help protect your skin, consider fabric that has UPF–or Ultraviolet Protection Factor. UPF measures the fraction of UV rays that can penetrate fabric and reach your skin, so the higher the UPF the better protection. Wear a wide-brim hat with a 3–4 inch brim that extends all around the hat to shield your face, scalp and the back of your neck. Baseball caps and visors shade your face but often leave your neck, lower face and ears exposed. UV-blocking sunglasses can also protect your eyes from the sunlight.

Stay Out of the Sun During Peak Hours. Whenever possible, plan your outdoor activities before or after the sun’s peak hours, which is when the sun’s rays are most intense. Typically, the peak hours are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., according to the Skin Cancer Foundation.

During this time frame make sure you are diligent about your sunscreen reapplication, wearing sun-protective clothing and seeking as much shade as possible.

Be aware that sunlight bouncing off reflective surfaces like water or pavement can reach you even beneath an umbrella or a tree.

Following these simple tips will go a long way protecting your skin and keep you from getting a painful sunburn.

Around Camp

Nature Trivia

Where Am I? Can you guess which camps these photos were taken? The answer can be found upside down at the bottom of this page.

Where is the largest bat colony in the world? Bracken Cave is the summer home to the largest colony of bats in the world. An estimated 20 million Mexican free-tailed bats roost in the cave from March to October. The cave is located in southern Comal County, Texas, outside the city of San Antonio. The 100-footwide crescent shaped opening to the cave lies at the bottom of a sinkhole, formed when the roof of the cave collapsed. The cave and 1,521 undeveloped acres around it are owned by Austin, Bat Conservation International, which restores the Nature Trivia Texas-based land to support native vegetation and an abundant variety of wildlife. Access to the cave is restricted to protect the habitat of the resident bats. Bat Conservation International offers evening guided tours to the cave to watch the bats emerge from the cave. Here’s a question for next time: What is the state fish?

1. Birdhouse cabin at Camp Myra S. Pryor, Nada, TX. 2. McNair Equestrian Center and bunkhouse at Camp Misty Meadows, Conroe, TX 34 July/August 2018 l The Golden Link

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Moment in History Written by: Saundra Kuykendall

In May I had a great day with a group of ladies that meet once a year for the afternoon at the Program Place for Girls. It is always a fun day catching up with old friends. This group is known as the Dinosaurs. The name was given to us by the daughter of a longtime Girl Scout volunteer who was talking to her friend about a group of her mother’s friends. She referred to this group as the Dinosaurs. We laughed and adopted the name.

In the early 1990s, six of these ladies went in together and purchased a silent auction item at an Urban Campout (a former fundraiser for the Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council). The item included a light breakfast and lunch for 100 people at Camp Casa Mare for a day.

These ladies each invited 15 people, and Dinosaur Day began. These ladies were Peggy Allison, Tisha Bell, Cora Ann Blatas, Anne Moeller, Myra Stefek and Mary Lou Wilson. You might know one or two of them.

We played games, sat on the porch in the swing, walked on the beach and visited with each other. And of course, took a picture of the group. The group has changed over the years but the memories are still being made.

Oh, I almost forgot! The age to be a Dinosaur doesn't matter, but at one time we had a few DITs (Dinosaurs in Training) for some of the almost retirees. I'm not sure we have any at the moment. Maybe you could be one.

Over the years it has evolved to a day at the Program Place for Girls. We bring our own lunch and visit with each other. Some of the ladies even meet at Camp Casa Mare for an overnight in the fall. This event is during the week so it does not conflict with any troop events on the weekends.

If you are interested in joining this group, send an email to floy1951@gmail.com and get on the list to be notified. We meet the second Wednesday of May and decide the Fall date at the May meeting.

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Philanthropy

GSSJC raises record $291,000 for girl programs at Success to Significance

GSSJC raised a record $291,000 for girl programs at its eighth annual Success to Significance luncheon on May 3.

This year’s event focused on Women in Leadership and included an expert panel featuring Andrea Bastiani Archibald, PhD, developmental psychologist, and chief girl and family engagement officer for Girl Scouts of the USA, Kathy Sanders, Resources Industry Managing Director, Southwest for Accenture, and Duy-Loan T. Le, Global Technology Executive & Board Director and Marguerite Woung-Chapman, Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary of Energy XXI Gulf Coast, Inc. GSSJC also celebrated our 2017 National Young Woman of Distinction, Angela Shipman, who shared her moving Girl Scout experience with an audience of more than 600.

Special thank yous to our event sponsors, HEB, Insperity, The John P. McGovern Foundation, Comerica Bank and LGI Homes. The council also thanks our 2018 Success to Significance chair, Jamie Vazquez, for her amazing leadership and our 2018 host committee members.

For more on Success to Significance, visit gssjc.org/s2s.

Jamie Vazq u the 2018 e ez served as vent chair .

This year’s panel featured, from left, Marguerite Woung-Chapman, Kathy Sanders, Duy-Loan T. Le and Dr. Andrea Bastiani Archibald.

GSSJC alum and 2017 National Young Woman of Distinction Angela Shipman shared her Girl Scout experience at the event.

Thank You GSSJC Donors!

March 1-April 30, 2018. $25,000+ - Ambassador Ashdon Farms The Hamill Foundation Ed Rachal Foundation United Way of Greater Houston

$1,000-$4,999 - Junior The Boeing Company Margaret Britton Buffalo Trail Community Challenger Service Unit Raeshonda F. Frierson Gensler $10,000-$24,999 - Senior Halliburton ConocoPhillips Company K. Daniel and Delores Girl Scouts of Northeast James Hinkle Texas Sandra A. Judson George and Mary KPMG LLP Josephine Hamman Mutual of America Foundation PESA Jayne and Paul Roberts Holthouse Foundation Barry Schaffter for Kids Fred and Mabel R. Parks Schneider Electric North Foundation America Foundation Donna S. Sisak $5,000-$9,999 - Cadette Esther and Don Spencer Francisco and Philana Keith & Mattie Diaz Stevenson Foundation Troop #25164 Montgomery County United Way Troop #40617 Skip and Melinda Vinson & Elkins LLP Reeves Cathy Wining-Thomas The Trull Foundation and Jim Thomas Westwood Trust 36 July/August 2018 l The Golden Link

$250-$999 - Brownie Aetna Foundation Inc Shelley Baccus Stacey L. Berg Kathryn Brady Jane M. Brownlee Callon Petroleum Andrea Cavalier Chevron Phillips Chemical Company Community Bank of Texas Mandelin Cooper Marisa Costa Kirsten A. Davenport Rachel Demny Brian and Mary Gedelian Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma, Inc. Loyola V. Gressot Claudia W. Hayslip Holly Hilbert Imelda G. Johnson Robin T. Klaes Knights of Columbus Council 14512 Kroger Company Neice Lang Katherine P. Lavery

Pamela R. Lippert Michelle McCormick Nacogdoches County United Way Anna Nallie Dorothy and Malcolm Paterson Nancy Lee G. Peterson Melissa Poindexter Dolores and John M. Richards, III Darleen M. Schauer Schlumberger Oilfield Services Karen Skaer Soh Marianita Paddock Snodgrass Sherry Stavinoha Y. Ping Sun Troop #3389 United Airlines United Way of Brazoria County United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey Judy L. Warne Janet E. Wolf

Memorials In Memory of Mary "Katie" Curtner Andrea Friedel Joel Marks Phillip Smith Gordon and Robin Browning Sparks Honorariums In Honor of Stella Aselin Anna Nallie In Honor of Staci Black Anna Nallie In Honor of Jean Janssen Delores J. Hinkle In Honor of Lisa Nowiszew Janie Lewis In Honor of Audrey Patterson Dorothy S. Paterson In Honor of Elsa K. White Anna Nallie

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Service Projects From Around the Council Troop #136005 had fun learning about the importance of keeping communities clean at Trash Bash.

Troop #152049 volunteered at Lunches of Love in Rosenberg to help provide kids with free and nutritious lunches on weekends and school holidays.

The Mariners Special Interest Group volunteered at the Houston Food Bank to complete a year-long food collection service project.

Troops #120006 and #120024 partnered with the Birthday Party Project to throw a birthday party for homeless children at the Mission of Yahew.

Troop #151027 used their cookie money to partner with the organization Attack Poverty to provide lunches for volunteers who continue working on Harvey recovery projects.

Troop #4343 partnered with Dow Chemical employees to volunteer at the Lettuce Live Urban Farm Project on Global Youth Day. Troop #22256 helped build carpets for a community Easter event.

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Girl Scouts from the Stargazers Community collected and sorted through school supplies for donation to a school in Puerto Rico.

Troop #114036 used cookie money to fill Thanksgiving food bags for the Klein Trails Community 3T service project.

Troop #9524 used their Fall Product profits to purchase and donate toys for the playroom at The Woman’s Hospital of Texas.

Troop #134127 worked with the City of Deer Park to plant flowers for a community butterfly garden project.

It's not too late to sign up for summer camp! Sessions available through July.

Sign up at gssjc.org/summercamp

A member of Troop #125076 found $20 during the Tall Pines Hill campout, honestly brought it to Lost and Found and when unclaimed, fairly decided to donate it to camperships.

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Scrapbook

Send your photos to ations@ communic clude In sjgs.org. in the # p oo tr your e. lin t ec subj

Sending in your photos does not guarantee placement in Golden Link.

GSSJC Scrapbook See your pictures on Facebook! Find your photos in a monthly scrapbook album on our page: facebook.com/gssjc

Troop #16242 worked on their Government badge by meeting with Amanda Edwards, Houston City Council Member at Large, who spoke about government and making positive changes in the community.

Girl Scouts from the Lone Star Treasures Community designed and decorated a float for the Fort Bend County Fair Parade and won third place in the Youth Civic division.

Troop #28250 enjoyed an awesome weekend of camping at Camp Wind-a-mere where they met Ranger Charlie, did archery, pitched tents, and visited the nearby Bayou Wildlife Zoo.

Girl Scouts from across the council enjoyed visiting and feeding horses at the Houston Mounted Police Department.

Troop #21052 helped Troop #147055 work on their My Promise My Faith award.

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Scrapbook

Hannah C. of Troop #24330 delivered a personal donation of Girl Scout Cookies to Houston Fire Station #2.

Troop #111034 learned how to fold and respect the flag while earning their Celebrating Community badge.

Troop #21721 traveled to the University of Texas Austin for the Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day and the Girl Day STEM Festival.

Troop #114185 used Fall Product money to attend Love, Hug and Groom at Camp Misty Meadows.

Troop #114036 used cookie money to visit the Elissa and be sailors for a day.

Troop #25001 delivered cookies and thank you cards to firefighters and first responders at Fire Station 15.

Troop #122251 sold cookies to former Mayor Annise Parker, who proudly supports the Girl Scout Cookie Program every year.

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Scrapbook

Avery did the Kids First Call (say "Let's Play Ball") at a Astros game in April.

Kaitlyn B. of Troop #110135 reached her cookie-selling goal of 1,000 packages, a vast majority of which was sold door-to-door.

Troop #114035 enjoyed the outdoors by hiking and doing archery at Camp Agnes Arnold.

Troop #129085 honored Katy area recruits leaving for military training by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and forming a receiving line at the Elks Lodge.

Troop #129085 earned their Respect Authority petal after visiting with members of the Fort Bend County Precinct 3.

Troop #134127 used their resources wisely by making dragonflies from recycled materials.

Troop #118083 successfully completed their very first cookie booth.

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Scrapbook Troop #129085 learned how to tie different types of knots at the Katy Chick-fil-A Girl Scout Night.

Troop #147181 enjoyed selling cookies at the Lego store in the Galleria.

KayLee B. of Troop #127014 started Walkabout Weekend by selling cookies to City of Katy Mayor Chuck Brawner at the Spring Community Campout.

Troops #120006 and #120024 had a blast learning at the Girls Exploring Math and Science (GEMS) exhibit at the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

Troop #152012 attended the University of Texas Girl Engineering Day in Austin where they enjoyed engineering, robotics and other hands-on STEM activities.

Troops #134127 and #134007 tackled some new skills by participating in a community fishing event.

Troop #152049 collected 254 packages of cookies to donate to the USO and 182 packages for Cookies4Heroes.

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Cherad’n C. of Troop #147181 joined fellow Green Starlettes to perform at the 2018 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Parade

Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council 3110 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77098-4508

You are so much more than a volunteer.

You’re a G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risktaker, Leader)™ powerhouse. And it takes a G.I.R.L. just like you to inspire her to dig deep and find her own G.I.R.L. spirit to accomplish amazing things. Because she needs a place designed specifically to unleash her greatest potential. She needs your drive, your passion, and your guidance.

She needs Girl Scouts. She needs you.

Visit gssjc.org and sign in to your MyGS account to renew.

2018 Fall Product Program is coming soon!

Fall Product Program Opens Girl Delivered Orders Close Cyber Week Specials All Online Orders Close

September 21 October 19 November 26 - December 2 December 2

Do you have lots of awesome activities that you want to do with your troop this year? The Fall Product Program is an easy and fun way to earn startup funds for all these activities and more.

Meet Maggie, the mascot for the 2018 program!

Sell 50 items to earn this lovable moose.

Check out this new tin!

This replica of the original Girl Scout camera is filled with Mint Treasures and is only $12.

Girls, earn the personalized avatar patch! New this year, additional accessories and a choice of four backgrounds. Girls can still earn a special crossover patch for participating in both Fall Product and Girl Scout Cookie programs.

Check your mailbox in September for more information.

Raising Awesome Girls

In a World of Boys’ Clubs, Give Her One of Her Own Although your daughter likely goes to school with boys, and might play Saturday morning sports and share the local playground with them, the realities of her day-to-day life are anything but the same as those of her male peers. In fact, studies show that in coed learning environments, boys receive more praise than girls when they call out in class, making girls less likely to raise their hands. Furthermore, boys are allowed to problem solve on their own during class time, which fosters independence, whereas teachers tend to step in and “help” girls, leading girls to question their own abilities.

And outside of school? More than one in ten U.S. girls report being catcalled before their 11th birthday–and a whopping 85 percent report gender-based street harassment before they turned 17. Not only does this make girls see their worth in terms of their appearance but it also makes them more self-conscious and cautious overall when out in public. Add to that the fact that the worlds of tech, advertising, major league sports, politics, finance, and so many other fields are still considered “boys’ clubs”–sending not-so-subtle signals to girls about which industries or activities are for girls and which aren’t–and the world starts looking a whole lot less equal for your daughter.

The fact is, 99 percent of your daughter’s life is experienced alongside boys, where she either has to fight for attention or dodge the unwanted kind. Not only can that get exhausting but it can also lead your daughter to keep her head down and stop seeking attention completely. And when this is her day-to-day norm, it’s easy for her believe dynamics like this are normal or acceptable. Scary, isn’t it?

So, what can you do to raise a smart, confident daughter who’s equipped to succeed in this world? Make sure she’s getting some high-quality time surrounded by girls and girls only.

Now, we know this concept raises some questions. Isn’t putting girls in an all-girl environment basically like telling them they can’t compete with boys or do the same things boys can? In short, no. Girls are already mixed in with boys in so many areas, but because of society’s stereotypes about girls and the ways girls are treated–either consciously or subconsciously–by the people in their lives, girls are less likely to take risks or engage in competition in environments where boys are present. They’re also more likely to shy away from science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) activities and sports for fear of being seen as less than feminine, or because they’ve been conditioned to believe that boys will simply be better at those things.

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We want every girl to succeed. That’s why GSSJC is happy to bring you Girl Scouts of the U.S.A.’s Raising Awesome Girls, an online publication to help you and your Girl Scout answer questions, face challenges and find solutions to daily life. For more articles like this, visit www. girlscouts.org and find Raising Awesome Girls under the “For Adults” tab.

All-girl environments–be they all-female sports teams, regular slumber parties, or even her Girl Scout troop meetings–work as a type of oasis in her world. When there are no boys to be compared to (or to compare herself to!), she can discover her passions, stretch her limits, and shine her absolute brightest without the social pressures of being seen as too girly, too masculine, or really too anything. Essentially, she’s allowed to be herself and learn her own strengths on her own terms. She can build the bravery, confidence, and resilience that come with taking risks, struggling, failing and trying again. She can learn to innovate and problem solve without anyone assuming she can’t do it on her own. And she can carry these experiences and skills with her into the wider world, where they’ll bolster her and help her rise to new limits despite any barriers in her way.

And as for the theory that girls in all-girl environments just end up getting catty and tearing one another down? Quite simply, it’s wrong. Here’s the thing: the harmful stereotype of girls and women being backstabbing “mean girls” has existed for hundreds of years.

But girls are more likely to be ultra-competitive with one another in environments where there’s only one or two spaces for them to take the lead. In all-girl environments? Every leadership opportunity in every area will be given to a girl, so girls learn to champion one another and collaborate rather than feel threatened. The friendships she’ll forge through these groups will form the basis of a powerful network of women who can support one another as they grow.

And these benefits–a greater sense of confidence, a higher comfort level with taking risks, the ability to claim every space as a space where girls and women belong, and the support and encouragement of a strong female network–truly will help your daughter throughout her life. Studies show that girls who take part in certain all-girl activities go on to have more successful careers, experience higher levels of education, and be happier in life in general.

What can you do to give your daughter the benefits of the girls’ club?

Set up playdates with female schoolmates early and often. Point out examples in real life and in the media where girls have joined together to support and lift one another up. Get her involved in an allfemale activity like Girl Scouts, an all-female dance or sports team or a STEM class filled with girls. Not only will she have fun and make memories to last a lifetime but she’ll also grow stronger, more capable, and more confident than you ever dreamed.