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The Official Publication of Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council | Volume 45 Issue 5
The Golden
Plan your Girl Scout year
September/October 2019
President of the Council and Chair of the Board Dee Hinkle Chief Executive Officer Mary Vitek Chief External Affairs Officer Connie Chavez Visual Brand Manager Joanne Pastalaniec 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 713-292-0314. 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 six 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/publications
Troop #136001 traveled to the Texas State Capitol in Austin to explore, learn and bond. See more photos in the Scrapbook section.
Contents
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Did you move this summer? Be sure your address is up-to-date in our system. For help, contact Customer Service at 713-292-0300 or customerservice@sjgs.org.
From the Top Shop News
Special Feature 5 9
A Year in a Life of Girl Scout Troops Fall Product Program
Features 10 11 16 17 18 19 20 21
Save the Dates for the Whole Year Ten Year Property Strategy Girl Scout Traditions Tips for Troop Leaders Check Out the Girl Scout Online Community Many Faces of Girl Scouts Join us at Success to Significance Congratulations Gold Award Girl Scouts
Activities
25 Camp Activities 26 Archery 26 Backpacking 27 Camping 27 Environmental 29 Fine Arts 30 General Activities 35 Health 37 Highest Awards 38 History 38 Horses 40 Sailing 41 Sports 42 STEM 45 Swimming 45 Travel
Columns
46 Adult Trainings 51 Around Camp 52 Philanthropy 53 Service Projects
Did you see the new tin for the Fall Product Program? Page 9
Council Scrapbook Page 54
On the Cover Troop #132312 had a great Girl Scout year. See all the fun activities they did on page 4.
Copyright Š2019. All rights reserved. Please recycle this publication.
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This summer was another scorcher in southeast Texas, but that did not stop our members from participating in fun and educational activities. They swam and canoed at resident camp; cooked campout food and worked on badges at day and twilight camps; and traveled at home and abroad with their troops, special interest groups and on Destinations. But fun and educational as it Dee Hinkle was, summer is over and it’s back Chair of the Board and to school and a new Girl Scout President of the Council membership year. Thank you to all of our volunteers and Girl Scout donors who will kick off the year by making Girl Scouting a reality for all girls in our community. Your investment of time, talent and treasure will change the lives of girls and help them succeed at home, at school and in our communities. This fall, we will be holding recruitment events, training leaders and planning the year’s activities. All of this is designed to achieve what I believe are the two most important objectives of our Movement: reach more girls and deliver consistent, quality outcome-driven programs. While our volunteers are very skilled at achieving these objectives, there are a couple of helpful hints that I hope you find useful. GSSJC’s Customer Service Department can answer or track down answers to most any question you have. Don’t know who to ask? Call Customer Service. Don’t understand training requirements? Customer Service will help clarify. Problems with VTK? Customer Service can help troubleshoot. For questions, big and small, they can be reached at customerservice@sjgs.org or 1-800-392-4340 Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and on Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Next are our Girl Scout retail shops. There are some exciting changes coming to our Girl Scout shops as a result of the Ten-Year Property Strategy (TYPS) which was recently approved by the board of directors. First, we are changing our service centers to resource centers. We are working to expand the services beyond retail sales at some locations to include additional resources, such as meeting spaces to conduct Girl Scout business and other helpful activities. The first phase of this plan was the closing of the seldom used shop at the Lake Jackson Resource Center in early June. In the future, the space used for a shop will be reconfigured to provide additional program space, and a merchandise pick-up option (think lockers) will be offered as an alternative to the shop. The remaining seven retail locations include the shops at the Program Place, Stafford, Beaumont, Westside, Bay Area, Lufkin and Imperial Valley. In response to feedback received during the development of TYPS, most shops now offer extended hours after 5 p.m. during the week and until 3 p.m. on Saturday. During the coming year, we plan to open additional shops in the Cypress and Humble areas and convert the shop at Imperial Valley to additional meeting space. Locations and hours of operations can be found at gssjc.org/shop. If shopping in person is not convenient, you can also get uniforms and supplies delivered right to your home using gssjc.org/shop. Hope this helps! I’m looking forward to a year full of fun and achievements for our girl members. None of it could happen without dedicated and knowledgeable volunteers. Thank you for all you do to make it happen!
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Girl Scout Resource Centers For resource center locations and hours, please visit girlscoutshop.com/san-jacinto-council
Hours can change due to emergencies, weather or other factors. Please call before driving long distances. Bay Area 281-282-6077 Mon. Closed Wed. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Tues./Thu. 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Fri. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Beaumont 409-832-0556 Tues. – Fri. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sat. – Mon. Closed Imperial Valley 281-447-8870 Mon. Closed Wed. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Tues./Thu. 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Fri. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Houston 713-292-0247 Mon./ Wed. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Tues./Thu. 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Fri. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sat. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m..
Lufkin 936-634-4688 Tues./Thurs. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Stafford 281-670-5982 Mon. Closed Wed. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Tues./Thu. 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Fri. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Westside 281-822-4250 Mon. Fri. & Sat. Closed Tue.–Thu. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Office and Resource Center Closures: Sept. 2., Nov. 28 and 29
New Leader Must-Knows!
Are you a new Girl Scout leader? Here are some things you need to know for the next few months.
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Join the GSSJC Online Community! Looking for an easy place to connect with other new troop leaders across the council, get resources and find the latest news? Visit gssjc.org and click on Online Community. Use your MyGS login to access groups. As a troop leader, you will automatically be added to the group relevant to your troop’s program level. Our Fall Product Program is a great way for troops and groups to earn start-up funds for their year! This money can help pay for workshops, camping trips and more. The Fall Product Program starts Sept. 20 - join us! For more details, visit gssjc.org/fallproduct. Celebrate Founder’s Day! October 31 is Juliette Gordon Low’s birthday. Many troops choose to celebrate with a birthday party. Some also complete service projects related to breast cancer awareness, the disease that ultimately took Juliette's life. Be sure to share photos of your activities with us. Post on social media or email them to communications@ sjgs.org to be featured in The Golden Link. See you at the Fall Volunteer Conference. This annual event 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 across the Council. This year’s event takes place Nov. 9 – 10 – see more information in this issue and register to attend by visiting gssjc. org/activities and searching Fall Volunteer Conference.
Special Feature
A Year in Girl Scouting! Great ideas from troop to troop “What do Girl Scouts do?” It might seem a bit silly, but it’s one we get asked a lot when we’re out at events during the fall. Most people know Girl Scouts go camping, earn badges and sell cookies once a year…but what do they do the rest of the time? LOTS! And in this issue of The Golden Link, seven troops are giving us a peek inside their Girl Scout year – that’s one troop for each level of Girl Scouting, plus a multi-level troop that serves more than one level of Girl Scouts. Use these as a blueprint for your own year and as a way to get ideas for fun activities your girls can do. Find your level and read on to see what a year of Girl Scouting looks like, borrow their ideas and plan the best year ever with your girls.
Troop # 132312 Level: Daisy
East Enders Community Meeting Frequency: Twice per month Number of Members: 12
Year at a Glance: What was your troop’s favorite activity? The girls loved the Cookie Program Walkabout, visiting the fire station and having an end of year party at Sweet and Sassy that included a dance party. All these events were getting the girls out of their normal environment, and that is why they enjoyed these the most. What activity allowed girls to get outside their comfort zone and grow? We saw the biggest growth during the Cookie Program. The girls had to overcome some shyness to talk to people to sell cookies, plus we focused on financial responsibility and learning all about money.
September October November December January February March May June
Began participation in Fall Product Program Crosby Fire Station Tour, continued participation on Fall Product Program Completed participation in Fall Product Program Troop Christmas party Began participation on Cookie Program World Thinking Day, continued participation in Cookie Program Completed participation in Cookie Program Sweet and Sassy end of year party East Enders Community party at Pirates Bay water park, grocery store tour
Additional Activities: Earned all Petals, Money Counts and Count it Up leaves, Good Neighbor badge and My Promise, My Faith pin Attended Leader/Daughter Community camping weekend at Casa Mare Leader Kristin Tauber earned Rockstar Rookie award from East Enders Community
What one activity would your troop recommend other girls at your program level complete? Focus on petals! It is truly the best way to introduce the girls to Girl Scouts and integrate the Girl Scout values into their daily lives. After we got to know the girls personally, it was fun coming up with tailored activities that would help the girls learn the values at an even higher level. What one thing are you excited to do in the 2019-20 membership year? The girls really want to go camping and they want to be outside more. We are hoping to participate in as many council events as we can. We are also looking forward to our troop growing their friendships deeper. The first year is about getting to know each other. Now that they have a foundation to build on we are excited to see what the future holds for our troop.
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Special Feature
Troop #111053 Level: Brownies
Wildflowers Community Meeting frequency: Number of Members: 12
Year at a Glance:
What was your troop’s favorite activity? This year our favorite activity was the Wildflowers Community Messtival Festival. It’s an event with several messy activities like paint slip and slides, army crawl through the mud and ice water T-shirt challenge. We all got super messy and dirty and had tons of fun! What activity allowed girls to get outside their comfort zone and grow? The Cookie Program enables girls to get out of their comfort zone and learn skills like public speaking and customer service. More than 60 percent of our members were new to Girl Scouts this year. What one activity would your troop recommend other girls at your program level complete? Our troop really believes every troop should go camping at least once a year. It does so much to foster team spirit between the girls and builds their independence. We love getting outdoors and unplugging from the world. Our council properties are amazing. If a troop is nervous about camping, start with a dorm. It’s not that much different to being at home. The more you do it, the easier it gets! What one thing are you excited to do in the 2019-20 membership year? We are looking forward to tent camping and trying our hand at archery and maybe even canoeing. We plan to camp every other month!
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September October November December January February March April May
Held first meeting, voted on kapers and rules; earned Kitchen Scientist badge; attended Jedi Journey in a Day that covered Think Like and Engineer and Citizen Scientist; part of the troop also worked a Girl Scout Recruitment event Hosted new Girl Scout parent meeting; Cy-Creek EMS visited a meeting; earned First Aid, Brownie Safety Pin, Making Friends and GS Way badges and Outdoor Journey; attended Me and My Gal Campout at Camp Robinwood; completed Cabin Camper and Hiker to finish off our Outdoor Journey Made Swaps for Brownie Magic; practiced our Christmas carols; experienced using our five senses in creative ways to earn Five Senses badge; walked in the Tomball Holiday Parade; leaders attended Fall Volunteer Conference Made Christmas crafts and continued to practice Christmas carols; hosted holiday party that included a service project of making care packages for foster children; hosted parent cookie meeting; attended Brownie Magic at Camp Agnes Arnold paired with camping at Misty Meadows Ranch; Christmas caroled in a nearby neighborhood Voted on Troop Crest (Pansy, stands for loving thoughts and special friendships); made troop letterboxes; began participation in Cookie Program; earned Letterboxing badge; attended HERPS reptile event to start Pets badge Practiced working a Cookie Booth; hosted a Valentine’s Day party; made a bee house as a Take Action project for our Outdoor Journey; earned Meet My Customers badge; participated in Walkabout and cookie booths Worked on our Iceland board for World Thinking Day; completed participation in Cookie Program with a total of 3,687 packages sold; earned Snacks badge Made and played games, including octopus tag and pass the orange to earn Fair Play and Making Games badges; attended Messtival Festival, World of Girls Journey in a Day and Cookies for Soldiers events; camped at Casa Mare Planned menus and activities for the year end campout; earned Pets badge; camped at Misty Meadows Ranch to participate in Love, Hug and Groom; attended Me and My Guy Community event
Special Feature Windcatchers Community Meeting Frequency: Once per week Number of Members: 14
Troop # 150061 Level: Junior
Year at a Glance:
What was your troop’s favorite activity? Our trip to Colorado was the best thing we did. What activity allowed girls to get outside their comfort zone and grow? Our trip was also the most challenging. Many of our girls have never been in snow, and we ended up in a blizzard. We all learned a completely new set of safety skills.
August September October November December January February March April May June
Visited Great Wolf Lodge, attended Houston Theatre District open house, some members earned Entertainment Technology badge Troop camping at Misty Meadows Ranch, visited Apple Store, attended camping games fundraising event, some members earned Animal Habitats and Digital Photography badges Troop camping at Galveston Bay House, worked on aMuse Journey, filmed for Bronze Award, attended event at George Ranch, participated in Fall Product Program, some members earned Playing in the Past badge Some members earned Flowers badge Toured Great American Cookie Company, completed Adopt a Senior service project, attended Cookie Kick Off event, some members earned Cookie CEO badge Participated in Cookie Program, some members earned Business Owner badge Troop camping at Misty Meadows Ranch, some members earned Horseback Riding and Camping badges Completed participation in Cookie Program, spring break trip to Colorado, attended Sweet Creams sleepover, some members earned Practice with Purpose badge Attended Girl Scout University in Austin, hosted Carousel fundraising event, attended Jubilee Campout at Camp Robinwood, some members earned Inside Government, Musician and Outdoor Art badges Visited a local library, some members earned Scribe badge Held end of year awards and Bronze Award presentation event
What one activity would your troop recommend other girls at your program level complete? Apple store badges, wolf sanctuary and camping - lots of camping! What one thing are you excited to do in the 2019-20 membership year? The girls are old enough for the horseback riding special interest groups, SPURS and STARS, and they are looking forward to working through the program.
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Special Feature
Troops #102167/#104158 Level: Multi-level
Pine Village Community (102167) and Pine Forest Community (104158) Meeting Frequency: Every other week
Year at a Glance:
v What was your troop’s favorite activity? At the Nacogdoches Public Library, the girls had a fabulous time learning coding skills taught by a librarian. As part of the Think Like a Programmer Journey they were able to apply their newfound coding skills to play coding games and programming challenges. What activity allowed girls to get outside their comfort zone and grow? For the first time the girls participated in girl planning board meetings. They learned the process of event planning and how to transfer their knowledge of the Harry Potter books into creative classes and activities that older girls would enjoy. It was slow going, but the results promise the best campouts yet!
September October November December January February March April May June
Planning campout and Cargo Net Take Action project at Camp Whispering Pines Attended Sparkle Weekend Campout at Camp Whispering Pines; worked on Eco badge with SFA Department of Forestry and Agriculture; earned Comic Artist badge; took coding training for Think Like a Programmer Journey; participated in Fall Product Program Attended A Very Harry Halloween Campout and mentoring meeting with SFA Girl Scout Alumnae Organization; earned First Aid badge at SFA College of Nursing Completed A World of Girls Leader in Action; enjoyed karaoke Attended SFA 2-A-Day with planetarium visit and Trees, Sky, Water and Outdoor Art badgework; Ambassadors worked on Outdoor Journey with Ranger Jared of Mission Tejas State Park; began participation in Cookie Program Worked on Amaze! Journey; continued participation in Cookie Program Enjoyed archery and hiking at Camp Whispering Pines; completed participation in Cookie Program Completed fairy garden service project; hosted Earth Day recruitment event Attended girl planning board meetings for A Very Harry Halloween and A Very Harry Holiday to be hosted in fall/winter of 2019-20 Participated in leadership activities via Camp Whispering Pines day camp; attended Basic 8 Camping Skills sessions and girl planning board meetings for A Very Harry Halloween and A Very Harry Holiday
What one activity would your troop recommend other girls at your program level complete? Make sure to find time in your busy year for the girls to bond and just have fun. They are forming life-long friendships. What one thing are you excited to do in the 2019-20 membership year? When the girls met their SFA mentors, they had a wonderful time learning about each other and about what the future can hold for them. Having former Girl Scouts as mentors is a great opportunity for career exploration and college preparation and even helps the alumnae women to further develop their leadership skills. 8
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Troops #102167 and #104158 are a unique group of Girl Scouts. The two troops meet as one group of older girls in grades 6-12 on the Stephen F. Austin State University (SFA) campus in Nacogdoches. They are sponsored by the SFA Girl Scout Alumni Organization, a campus club composed of former Girl Scouts who provide mentoring to the girls, participate in troop activities and participate in community service events.
Special Special Feature Feature
2019 Fall Product Program beings September 20! Our Fall Product Program is about to start! Don’t miss out on your Girl Scouts chance to participate in the Fall Product Program and earn her own personalized patch that looks just like her. Each troop will be selling nuts and candy from Ashdon Farms and magazine subscriptions from M2 Media. To get started, contact the troop’s Fall Product manager to get an order card. If your Girl Scout cannot begin on September 20, she may participate in the program at her earliest convenience before November 14 Your Girl Scout’s Me2™ avatar will be part of her troop’s online photo and will also earn virtual rewards. By sending 12 emails and selling six magazines, she will earn a personalized patch with her name and Me2™ on it. She can choose to go on a hot air balloon ride or go up to the lookout tower on her patch. She can also choose to be in her uniform or a safari outfit. Beginning September 20, look for the link at gssjc.org to get started. Please make sure to get online and help your Girl Scout create her Me2™ (an avatar customized to resemble herself). Send emails through the site to friends and family inviting them to shop online and bask in our delicious treats. In addition to collecting orders on the order card, your Girl Scout can sell products using the M2 Ordering System (M2OS). This online system will allow your Girl Scout to ask for nut, candy and magazine orders from friends and family by sending an email that includes links to both the online magazine catalog and an expanded selection of nut and candy products. Help her send 12 or more emails and get six magazine orders before November17 to qualify for the personalized patch with her name and avatar. Plus, if you send those 12 or more emails by November 14 and sell at least 250 packages in the 2020 Cookie Program girls will qualify for the special cookie crossover patch. On September 20, go to gsnutsandmags.com/gssjc or click on the link from gssjc.org. Follow the instructions in the 2019 Fall Product Family Guide to get your Girl Scout set up on the system. Selling online is easy and no money is collected by the Girl Scout.
Don’t miss out on all the fun! This program is easy, fun and a wonderful way to earn startup funds for your troop! By participating in this program with your encouragement and support, your Girl Scout will learn and practice five valuable skills that will help her now and into the future. Those five skills are: goalsetting, decision-making, money management, people skills and business ethics. Help your Girl Scout be successful at reaching her personal and troop goals. It’s a fantastic way to earn funds for the troop. Troops typically earn an average of $300 – $800. Encourage and support your Girl Scout and troop to reach their goals!
NEW! This tin replication of a vintage Girl Scout uniform is for sale filled with Mint Treasures!
ms 5 ite e! 5 l l m Se earn d n a
Create your avatar and sell six magazines to earn a personalized patch.
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Features
September 15 - October 15 is National Hispanic Heritage Month During National Hispanic Heritage Month, we recognize the important contributions of Hispanic Americans and celebrate Hispanic heritage and culture. The month of September is a historically significant one for many Latin American countries. September 15 is the anniversary of the independence of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence on September 16 and 18. In 1968, President Lyndon Johnson designated National Hispanic Heritage Week as the week including September 15 and 16. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan expanded it to a 30 day period. Join GSSJC for the annual Fiestas Patrias parade, which celebrates Mexico’s call for independence from Spain. Visit gssjc.org/ activities to register.
Learn more
Institute if Hispanic Culture of Houston ihch.org Hispanic Heritage Month hispanicheritagemonth.org
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Did you know? Hispanic Americans represent the largest ethnic or racial minority with 11.4 million Hispanics in the U.S. and representing 39.6% of Texas’ population according to a July 2018 census report. The theme for Hispanic Heritage Month 2019 is “Hispanic Americans: A History of Serving Our Nation.” Take the opportunity to explore the historical Hispanic Americans and the positive influences that have enriched our nation.
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We're launching a task force to simplify camp training, increase programs and increase support to leaders do
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A Guide to Getting Started with Girl Scout Traditions When you’re 107 years old (yes, we do look good for our age – thanks for noticing!), like Girl Scouts, traditions are part of your DNA. We may be venturing into the future with things like cybersecurity badges, but there are some things that will never change about what it means to be a Girl Scout. Throughout the 2019-20 membership year, we’ll bring you a look inside some of Girl Scouting most important traditions. So why are our traditions so important? Well, to start with they give Girl Scouts a sense of history—and inspire them to be the best they can be. Sharing traditions with millions of Girl Scouts—and the huge network of Girl Scout alumnae who came before them—helps remind girls they belong to a big, powerful and inclusive sisterhood.
Here is a look at why badges and ceremonies will always be part of the Girl Scout experience: Badges: A cornerstone of Girl Scouting, the seven legacy badges build on over 100 years of Girl Scout history. Each of these badges (Artist, Athlete, Citizen, Cook, First Aid, Girl Scout Way, and Naturalist) is available at five levels of Girl Scouting, from Brownie to Ambassador. Ceremonies: Ceremonies honoring Founder's Day in particular, which is celebrated on Juliette Gordon Low's birthday on October 31, are a valued Girl Scout tradition. They highlight the important role Juliette played in the development of the Girl Scout movement in the United States. Girl Scout Sign: Girl Scouts make the Girl Scout sign—raising three fingers of the right hand with the thumb holding down the pinky– when they say the Girl Scout Promise. The three fingers represent the three parts of the Promise. Motto: The Girl Scout motto is "Be prepared." In the 1947 Girl Scout Handbook, the motto was explained this way: "A Girl Scout is ready to help out wherever she is needed. Willingness to serve is not enough; you must know how to do the job well, even in an emergency." The same holds true today. Slogan: The Girl Scout slogan, which has been used since 1912, is "Do a good turn daily." The slogan is a reminder of the many ways girls can contribute positively to the lives of others. Greeting: Girl Scouts can greet one another with the Girl Scout handshake, used by Girl Scouts and Girl Guides all over the world. The handshake is made by shaking hands with the left hand and making the Girl Scout sign with the right. The left hand is nearest to the heart and signifies friendship. Friendship Circle: Representing the unbroken chain of friendship among Girl Scouts and Girl Guides around the world, the Friendship Circle involves Girl Scouts standing in a circle, crossing their right arms over their left, and clasping hands with their friends on both sides. Everyone then makes a silent wish as a friendship squeeze is passed from hand to hand around the circle. SWAPS: Girl Scouts often make small tokens of friendship to exchange with the Girl Scouts they meet while traveling. These little gifts are called SWAPS, which stands for Special Whatchamacallits Affectionately Pinned Somewhere. Learn more about Girl Scout traditions and their history in The Girl's Guide to Girl Scouting and in future issues of The Golden Link!
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Tips for Troop Leaders: Cell Phones? Cliques? Here’s How Troop Leaders Deal You’re shaping future female leaders who will smash expectations and change the world—that is, if they could just focus on this week's troop activity. No matter which level of Girl Scouts you lead and where, some experiences, like friend cliques or seeming cell phone addiction, are more common than others. But at what point do you intervene? And if you're a new troop leader, you might wonder how to intervene; do you call out a problematic behavior? Let the girls sort out an issue among themselves? Rest assured, troop leader, you’re not alone in navigating these experiences. Our volunteer experts have seen it all and shared how they resolved some common challenges as troop leaders. Attention Span Sometimes a five-minute meeting welcome is five minutes too many, especially for Daisy and Brownie troop leaders. “At the Daisy level, we ran into a lot of attention span issues,” says Kara Johnson, a Brownie troop leader. “We just learned early on that it worked best to break up the meeting into ten-minute increments, so the girls didn't have to sit still too long. ” "My girls wanted to run around their school lunchroom during our meeting time,” remembers Trina Floyd, a Junior troop leader. “I had to be careful in my response because some girls are uncomfortable being corrected by an adult they hardly know. I suggest not calling out single names when corralling those who have strayed from the task, but to instead find a call and response such as ‘Hey, hey, Girl Scouts,’ that they respond to with ‘Hey, hey, Ms. Floyd.’ The best thing for my girls was for me to pay attention to when they needed a break and adjust the plans as needed.” Friend Cliques The girls in your troop may not all be best friends, and that’s OK. But watching some girls repeatedly exclude other girls from activities? That’s definitely not in the spirit of sisterhood! "We have the girls work in groups or we pair them up; we don’t allow them to pick their groups or partners,” explains Kara. “To make it fair, they count off by number or use the Popsicle sticks to be placed in groups. This way some of the girls who may consistently be left out have the opportunity to work with the other girls, and often, once some of them have one-on-one time, they become closer.” “Something we’ve tried is sitting in our friendship circle and talking about it,” says Cheryl Lentsch, an Ambassador troop leader. “We remind the girls that we’re all Girl Scout sisters and go through the parts of the Girl Scout Promise and Law that apply to the situation. We remain calm and don’t raise our voices. " Learning to Lead Each girl comes to Girl Scouting at a different point in her leadership journey, and some may need a little extra support to discover their inner leader. So how do you help those girls build their confidence and learn to overcome obstacles? “The biggest challenge with my Daisies came from girls who were used to being ‘winners’ at everything–those who were upset when they didn’t win and refused to try new things for fear of failure,” explains Nancy Fink, a Cadette troop leader. “We ended up doing something pretty simple–praising the ‘try’ publicly and the ‘win’ personally. The girls are very good at congratulating fellow winners; all they needed from the adults was a quiet high-five and a personal comment on the accomplishment. The girls followed suit and became each other's cheerleaders when trying new things.”
“My Brownies became challenging as their ability to be independent diverged,” Nancy continues. “Some girls were being given some independence at home and school and others weren’t, and those differences showed up in how the troop tackled activities. Some were very comfortable being given jobs to do and others needed constant attention and problemsolving help. We divided the troop into teams that included at least one girl comfortable with independence. When other girls gave up too quickly or acted like they needed hand-holding, we referred them back to the ‘team lead.’ The girls who were used to constant guidance became better problem solvers, and those already comfortable with some independence became better leaders.” Cell Phones Whatsapp with girls using their phones during a troop meeting? If it seems like you can’t get through a meeting without girls messaging their friends, bring the issue directly to the girls. “When some of our troop girls became Cadettes, many of them suddenly began bringing their cell phones to meetings,” says Cheryl. “We had frank discussions about it. We discussed that the girls had some time to use their phones outside of meetings and class but to get things done in the short time we had together, we would need to keep our cell phones put away during meetings. [To keep the conversation girl-led], the girls decided they still wanted their phones out and accessible, but they would look at them only occasionally.” We want every troop leader to succeed. That’s why GSSJC is happy to bring you Girl Scouts of the U.S.A.’s Tips for Troop Leaders, an online publication supporting both new and returning troop leaders as they encourage their girls to grow into the leaders they were born to be! For more articles like this, visit www.girlscouts.org and find Raising Awesome Girls under the For Adults tab. September/October2019 l The Golden Link
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Check Check out out the the GSSJC GSSJC Online Online Community Community
We know outside of The Golden Link, sometimes finding the information you need online can be difficult. You forget the URL someone gave you for cookie information, or search results don’t bring up exactly what you need. We hear you – and last year we introduced GSSJC Online Community, available to all members of the council. This is a digital community where you’ll find the latest news just for our members, key dates, upcoming trainings and more. Oh, and there are groups specific to volunteer roles that you can join to find all the resources you need and connect with other volunteers across the council! Join now at community.gssjc.org. Need a little more information? Here are some frequently asked questions about the GSSJC Online Community:
What is it?
The GSSJC Online Community is a site just for you, our members. On the homepage, you’ll find the latest news members need to know, like key Fall Product dates, upcoming council-wide trainings and more. Then click over to the Community side to find groups just for you! Here you can connect with other volunteers in your role. Groups available this fall are just the beginning – we are continuing to add more groups, so check back often. You will automatically gain access to the groups relevant to your volunteer roles, such as Brownie troop leader or troop cookie manager.
Why was this created?
The GSSJC Online Community replaced our Resources site, which volunteers and parents could previously access for information relevant to current members. The Resources site was created before digital tools like the Volunteer Toolkit were introduced. We want to continue offering you digital tools to make Girl Scouting easier while also giving you a place to connect with other volunteers and parents across the council.
Where can I find it?
Go to community.gssjc.org or visit gssjc.org and click on Online Community at the top right of the homepage. To access your groups, you will need to log in using your MyGS account. Need help getting into your account? Send an email to customerservice@sjgs.org or call 713-292-0300 for assistance.
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There’s not a group for me – help!
We will continue adding groups to the Online Community this membership year, so keep an eye on the site, your email and our social media as we add more groups and features to the platform.
We hope you’ll find the Online Community useful, and we look forward to continuing to grow this platform to better serve you during the 2019-2020 membership year!
Features
Features
The Many Faces of Girl Scouts: Susan Soh Earning the Girl Scout Gold Award is an accomplishment fewer than 5 percent of Girl Scouts receive. Even fewer – only 10 girls per year – are named a National Gold Award Girl Scout. This distinction means that each of these 10 girls designed and implemented an extraordinary project of measurable, sustainable and far-reaching impact. These girls also demonstrated a steadfast commitment, as well as a stunning ability, to create true change. GSSJC Ambassador Susah Soh was named one of those 10 girls in 2018. For her Gold Award project, Susan launched Leer à Mi (Read to Me), a Spanish language children’s audiobook library at SANA Guatemala, a clinic, preschool and library in Santa Maria de Jesus, Guatemala to increase illiteracy and school readiness among native Mayan-speaking children. These children struggled in primary school, and their illiteracy was often linked to difficult life outcomes, like dropping out of school and experiencing poverty. Because of her efforts, over 400 children visit the library every month to listen to and read books, and most of them score at or above reading level in Spanish by the time they enter public school. By creating instructions on how to record and donate books and teaching members of a local school dropout-prevention program how to record the books, Susan also ensured that the library would continue to offer families effective educational tools. “I’m honored to have been nominated for this recognition by Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council and amazed and excited to earn it and have the opportunity to represent Girl Scouts of the USA and GSSJC at International Day of the Girl in New York City,” said Susan. “I hope that by being a National Gold Award Girl Scout, I can highlight the epidemic of illiteracy in the developing world and the detrimental effects it has on the lives of young women and men, both in Guatemala and globally as well as provide a platform for the incredible work of SANA Guatemala.” Other standout Gold Award projects girls from Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council carried out in recent years include Rewire Society, a movement to help eliminate stereotypes and embrace diversity launched by Angela Shipman, who in 2017 received GSUSA’s National Young Woman of Distinction (now known as the National Gold Award Girl Scout) honor and the Human Rights Walk and Festival launched by Demme Durrett in 2011 as a Gold Award project to help raise awareness about human rights education. These projects exemplify the extraordinary leadership, passion, work ethic and creativity of Gold Award Girl Scouts as they discover and implement innovative solutions to community and global issues.
Research verifies that participating in Girl Scouts and earning the Gold Award are linked to developing crucial leadership skills and advanced achievements. In addition to Girl Scouts being more than twice as likely than other girls to identify and solve problems in their communities, they over index when it comes to seeking challenges and learning from setbacks, having confidence in themselves and their leadership abilities and forming and maintaining healthy relationships. The majority of women who earned their Gold Award display more positive life outcomes compared with women who did not participate in Girl Scouts in their youth, including being more optimistic about their future, seeing themselves as leaders and being more civically engaged, particularly in politics. “We are truly honored to have a National Gold Award Girl Scout in our council,” said Mary Vitek, CEO of GSSJC. “Through her project, Susan showed extraordinary leadership in addressing a global issue, and I believe she will inspire other girls across the world to make a difference in their communities.” GSUSA honored all the National Gold Award Girl Scouts this in October 2018 at a celebratory event in New York City made possible through generous support by the premier event sponsor, Toyota Financial Services. To honor the National Gold Award Girl Scouts, a combined $100,000 in college scholarships, which includes $10,000 for Susan, has been provided by Susan Bulkeley Butler, founder of the Susan Bulkeley Butler Institute for the Development of Women Leaders and former member of the Girl Scouts of the USA Board of Directors. The Kappa Delta Foundation has granted the selected girls a combined $50,000 in college scholarships, reflecting its commitment to girls’ leadership and pursuit of education. This includes $5,000 for Susan. Finally, Arconic Foundation has granted the 10 young women a combined $50,000 in college scholarships, including $5,000 for Susan. Girls like Susan are just one example of an experience – and exceptional outcome – girls will discover as members of Girl Scouting. To learn more about the many faces of Girl Scouts, visit manyfacesofgirlscouts.com.
Get your Community recognized with the President’s Award!
The Volunteer Experience Department wants Communities to apply for the President’s Award so we can recognize the hard work your Community team is doing. Our Council would like to acknowledge the efforts of our Communities whose exemplary service supported delivering the GSLE, surpassed team goals thereby contributing to the council’s overall goals. If you made your membership and retention goals for 2018-2019, then you are in the running. This National Award has 10 criteria points and the accomplishments must have been achieved during the previous membership year. Documentation and materials supporting the nomination must be submitted between the following dates: August 15 - December 15. The GSSJC F-76 form is currently found at gssjc.org/forms. Your Community will be acknowledged at the Adult Recognition Event in April 2020 and presented with certificates and pins for each team member. Also, the Community’s name will be added to a plaque and displayed at council in the Hall of Fame. If this sounds like your Community, submit the forms and celebrate reaching your goal. For more information contact: Tracy Swanson at tswanson@sjgs.org or your Community VEM. September/October2019 l The Golden Link
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Features
Luncheon Join us for the newly rescheduled Success to Significance luncheon benefiting Girl Scouting in our local community. Our keynote speaker will be Girl Scout alum, First Class recipient and retired Navy veteran, Admiral Michelle J. Howard.
Tuesday, October 22, 2019 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Silver Street Studios: 2000 Edwards Street, Houston, TX 77007 Agenda Registration and Networking Cafe: 10:30 a.m. - noon Program and Lunch: noon - 1:30 p.m. Thank you for supporting the next generation of female leaders through our luncheon! Additional sponsorship opportunities are now available for this previously sold-out event.
Purchase tickets and/or table at gssjc.org/s2s. For more information, contact Princess Zambrano at 713-292-0358 or pzambrano@sjgs.org.
Thank You, Sponsors! VIP Reception Sponsor
G.I.R.L. Experience Sponsor
Goodie Bag Sponsor
Confidence Julie and Richard Boushka Diaz and Charlton Families Darcie Durham Michele McNichol Shell (Melanie Rippentrop) Clark Hill Strasburger Leah Bennett, Westwood Trust
Character Allegiance Bank/Linda Humphries Amegy Bank Antel & Skrabanek Families Apache Corporation Ashdon Farms The Awty International School Baker Hughes, a GE company BoyarMiller Meg Britton BXS Insurance Cadence Bank Challenger, Gray & Christmas
Troop Leader Sponsor
Parking Sponsor
Pillar Sponsor
Gold Award Spotlight Sponsor
Courage ConocoPhillips VISION W.D. Von Gonten & Co.
Speaker Sponsor
Sally Clark Craig & Heidt, Inc. Davenport Law Firm with Helene and Ronnie Sheena Deloitte Felicity Fowler & McGinnis Lochridge LLP Friends of Troop #125076 Jane Gasdaska Dan and Dee Hinkle Corrie Jenkins Sandy Judson Sue Kean Candice Koederitz KPMG Pilar Grantham Lam
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Legacy Community Health/Katy Caldwell Michelle Lewis Karen Matlock Memorial Hermann Mutual of America Callon Petroleum Petroleum Equipment & Services Association Melinda Reeves National Oilwell Varco Donna S. Sisak Southwestern Energy Karen & Ken Soh Sutliff + Stout Tejas Office Products, Inc. Texas Children’s Hospital Union Pacific
Printing Sponsor
Mary and Mike Vitek Cathy Wining-Thomas Weingarten Realty Investors West Houston Airport Women Executives of Houston Women and Minority Inclusion/ The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Friends of Girl Scouting Paul Britton Sue Burnett/Burnett Specialists
Gensler Hilton Americas Laura Liang M2 Media Group Nice Winery Reliant, an NRG Company TXU Energy Pedal Party Natalie Weakly Just Her Sports Darleen M. Schauer Nancy Schissler Cassandra McZeal Federation of Houston Professional Women Marguerite WoungChapman
Features
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. Sofia B. addressed the issue of childhood literacy by creating a comfortable safe-space where students could be inspired to write and develop a love for reading at Scroggins Elementary School in Houston Independent School District. Sofia led over 12 volunteers in designing and building the space. A local author served as the guest speaker at the grand opening, which was attended by 100 students. Sofia plans to attend a four-year university and study film production. Carina B. helped women and their children who survived sex trafficking or sexual exploitation in Houston by creating a fitness and nutrition center at Kendleton Farms. She built an exercise room and provided sustainable fitness and nutrition training to help women develop a sense of dignity in their own bodies and to ease the transition into living independently. Carina plans to attend The University of Texas at Austin to study neuroscience and later study medicine and research. Nora B. led various groups in creating hands-on activities and clothing related to Texas history at the Outdoor Learning Center for students of Katy Independent School District. Nora also developed lesson plans, gathered resources, collected donations and purchased reading materials that focused on Texas history. She hoped her project would inspire others to love history. Nora plans to attend a four-year university and later complete a master’s degree in occupational therapy. Stephanie B. partnered with Family Promise of Clear Creek, a program that fosters families from homelessness to long term housing, to address low selfconfidence in children. Stephanie wanted to help children be expressive and confident through art projects. She led 15 volunteers in creating art kits and hosting workshops where she led creative activities to help participants build their self-esteem. Stephanie plans to attend Chapman University and study animation and visual effects.
Katherine C. created 20 Books in Bags for children with significant physical and cognitive disabilities. The bags contained multisensory objects designed to help children learn through touch, hearing and smell. Additionally, Katherine devised a plan for wider implementation of her project, presented it to the Harris County Department of Education and was able to broaden the use of her Books in Bags program throughout multiple school districts. Katherine plans to attend Texas A&M University and study biomedical sciences. Elise C. led a book drive and collected 1,865 books for children living at the Houston Area Women’s Center (HAWC). Elise also created story bags for the children containing at least one Spanish and English book for them to read, as well as interactive toys, games and props to encourage the children to read. Additionally, she collected 300 books for the mothers in HAWC, hoping to encourage both women and children to find pleasure in the new books. Sofia F. renovated facilities of the Bay Area Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. To accomplish her project, Sofia recruited new volunteers by posting flyers at local businesses. After getting the support she needed, Sofia led her team in cleaning the facility, supplies and cages. They then painted, replaced furnishings and replaced floor tile with liquid concrete to help make cleaning easier in the future. Sofia plans to attend Tarleton State University and study animal science. Megan H. created Art for Hope to teach arts and crafts skills to children at Mission of Yahweh. After recruiting volunteers from clubs at her school, Megan led a team of 25 people to organize and implement art supply drives, art classes and story-time telling. She plans to become a student ambassador for the Rotary Club and spend a year abroad in France promoting peace before attending a four-year university to study animal science.
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Features
Gracie H. educated hundreds of children between the ages of 5-18 about the importance of bees in global food production, how native bee species contribute to the local ecosystem and ways to mitigate the declining honeybee populations. Gracie led 15 volunteers in constructing bee houses, which were donated to five different schools, and taught students and teachers how to use and maintain them. She plans to attend a four-year university and study neonatal nursing or pediatric oncology.
Caroline L. led 15 volunteers in educating their community about the importance of spaying, neutering and fostering animals. Caroline also hosted workshops where participants made a total of 70 dog and 70 cat toys, which were donated to Rescued Pets Movement (RPM). Additionally, she produced two videos to show others how to make the pet toys, which are available on RPM’s website. Caroline plans to attend a four-year university and study to become a physician assistant.
Summer J. created a water safety class and taught children from ages 4-10 how to swim. She provided free swimming lessons to 20 children at a community pool numerous times a week for over a month. Summer became interested in providing swimming skills and safety to children after a child drowned near the pool where she worked as a lifeguard. She currently attends Hollins University in Virginia and studies finance and international business and economics.
Emmaleigh L. hosted a community event where people could learn how to adopt and properly care for pets. She invited local organizations, including Houston SPCA, Citizens for Animal Protection and All God’s Creatures Reptile Rescue, to host booths at the event. Girl Scout participants could also earn their Pets badge or Animal Habitats badge. Emmaleigh hopes to attend San Jacinto Community College and later transfer to a university to pursue a degree in animal science.
Layla K. created a buddy bench to prevent bullying at Bowie Elementary School in Lamar Consolidated Independent School District. Children who felt lonely could sit on the bench, and classmates are encouraged to reach out to anyone sitting there. After installing the bench, Layla spoke to a second-grade class about bullying and how to make use of the bench. She plans to attend a The University of Texas at Austin and study biology to become a pediatrician. Tatum L. created a website called Back to Blog to help girls facing a scoliosis diagnosis. The blog is a resource for treatment information, confidence tips and surgery testimonials gathered from her personal experiences of being diagnosed with scoliosis. In addition to being shared with scoliosis support groups globally, the blog has readers from the U.S., Canada, Australia, Ireland and England. Tatum plans to attend a four-year university and study biology and follow the pre-med track. Christianne L. addressed mental health in the LGBT adolescent community by hosting art therapy workshops at the Montrose Center Hatch Youth program. She worked with psychologists and her art club to collect supplies and create an arts and crafts corner. Christianne led 20 volunteers in the project and arranged for her art club to continue holding drives for art supplies and annual art workshops at the center. She plans to attend a four-year university. 22 September/October 2019 l The Golden Link
Shilpita M. created a program focused on the value of prairies as mitigators of flooding. For more than a year, Shilpita presented her work numerous times to visitors at Brazos Bend State Park. At the presentations, visitors created seed balls that were distributed around the park to propagate wildflowers as an essential part of the prairie landscape. Shilpita plans to attend The University of Texas at Austin and study electrical and computer engineering. Katrina M. addressed the need for childfriendly hurricane information by creating a series of four 10-minute videos. She led a team of volunteers in writing, filming, directing and editing videos about what to do before, during and after a storm, as well as how to pack an emergency kit. The videos were shared with children at Kids R Kids Learning Academy. Katrina plans to attend The University of Texas at Austin and study mechanical engineering. Lillian M. raised awareness about type 1 diabetes. For her project, Lillian made a video and PowerPoint presentation, which was presented at her high school and later to the Katy Independent School District’s School Health Advisory Council. Information shared included early onset symptoms, who is most likely to develop it and the differences from type 2 diabetes. She plans to attend Texas A&M University and study petroleum engineering and later earn a master’s degree in geophysics.
Features Catherine N. hosted workshops at the Friendswood Library and Girl Scout House to showcase science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) based careers. She held two STEM workshops targeting middle school-age girls, where they conducted experiments and listened to influential female role models in the STEM workforce. Catherine created a template for the girls to start their own STEM club, as well as a brochure of home experiments. She plans to attend a four-year university and study chemistry. Elena P. partnered with the League of Women Voters to promote voter participation in Clear Lake High School. For her project, she held voter registration drives over the course of a year and was able to register over 30 voters. Additionally, Elena created a user guide for student leadership in other district high schools on how to conduct and promote voter registration. She plans to attend Samford University and study communications, theater and dance. Meg R. designed a kindness campaign called Creative Acts of Kindness are Easy (C.A.K.E.) teach children about the importance of kindness in their daily lives. She spoke to third graders at three elementary schools and each child completed five creative acts of kindness and drew an illustration of what kindness means to them. Prachi S. created a STEM workshop program at the Maud Marks Public Library in Katy to encourage girls to enter the STEM field. More than 80 students attended the sessions and future classes have been scheduled. Additionally, Prachi created a website called Spreading STEM that includes lesson plans, local STEM programs and interviews with professionals in the field. She plans to attend The University of Texas at Austin and study business. Isabel S. created Til' We See Stars, a six-chapter video game to help educate the public on depression and vanquish the myths behind it. Isabel consulted with many professionals including therapists, artists and coders. In a survey after a demo of the game, 79% of players understood depression better, and 73% of players who had depression felt more understood through the game. Isabel plans to study game development or become an entrepreneur in the restaurant industry.
Sarah S. decorated a youth room in Epiphany of the Lord Catholic Church in Katy. In September 2018, the church opened a new preschool and elementary school, creating a need for the new space. Sarah led a team of 10 volunteers in painting and designing window covers. They also painted a wall mural and created youth group signs. Sarah plans to attend a four-year university to study computer science and cyber-security. Noelle S. created a program focused on teaching financial literacy to members of Memorial Assistance Ministries (MAM). Noelle’s project impacted middle school children who learned about budgeting, saving and debt through games and activities. With the help of MAM, Noelle also created a class for the students’ parents to help emphasize the material the children were learning. She plans to attend a four-year university and study molecular biology and become a physician. Grace T. created Longhorn Pals, an organization aimed at providing a social outlet for special education students to interact with general education students. With a team of 21 volunteers, Grace helped over 30 students in grades 6 through 8 enhance their personal growth through peer bonding and games. The group met monthly to participate in activities with other differently abled classmates and make new friends. Grace plans to attend a four-year university and study mechanical engineering. Narmeen V. developed tutoring sessions for middle school students diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The project’s main focus was to help students with ADHD learn reading and math with greater success. Narmeen hosted seven tutoring sessions that utilized methods that diverged from conventional teaching styles. She drew inspiration for her project from her personal experiences of being diagnosed with a learning disability. She hopes her project will help the students, their parents and others to better understand the disorder. Neha V. created coloring books to help children be less afraid of undergoing surgical procedures. Neha led 15 volunteers, including members from Clear Creek High School’s art club, in constructing the coloring books, which are a more efficient way to engage children before surgery than regular toys. She also hoped to teach the children about their bodies and understanding how the procedure would affect them. Neha hopes to attend Baylor University and study pre-med in the future. September/October2019 l The Golden Link
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Features Savannah W. hosted an event at the City of Texas City Dog Park to help educate the community on how to prevent fatal animal diseases at home. More than 100 people attended, and she led a team of 30 volunteers to help the event run smoothly. Savannah also created pamphlets and distributed them to local veterinary clinics and animal shelters. She plans to attend Tarleton State University and study biomedical science and then Texas A&M to study veterinary medicine.
Rachel Z. and her team of 25 volunteers from St. Helen’s National Junior Honor Society taught students in grades 5 through 10 at Today’s Harbor for Children how to serve the greater community. Her curriculum included a variety of projects and eight summer workshops, where they discussed the value of service and learned to make blankets for patients at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Rachel plans to attend a four-year university and study medicine and research immunology.
Bronze and Silver Award Projects Around the Council Members of Troop #21075 earned the Silver Award by helping the horses at Bailey Oaks Farms by building jumps and planting shade trees.
Elianna G. and Danielle W. of Troop #27292 built a hummingbird garden for the Gulf Coast Bird Observatory in Lake Jackson for their Silver Award project. Members of Troop #146008 recorded a 45-minute holiday program for Sight into Sound, a nonprofit organization for Houston’s blind and sight-impaired community.
Troop #118008 painted an interactive mural in the 5th grade hallway of Summerwood Elementary to earn their Bronze Award.
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Troop #137009 earned their Bronze Award by hosting a food drive and sorting donations at Galveston County Food Bank. Katey N. of Troop #27574 earned the Silver Award by hosting a free Mental Health Fair in Pearland sponsored by the nonprofit organization Project Caleb.
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.
Day-only outdoor activities at camp: Want to spend some time at camp? Day-only activities are available as scheduled below. Some of our sessions have been reformatted with longer session times. Online registration is available in MyGS Member Community. From the Activities tab, use the search bar to enter your weekend date (i.e. 9/14/19) and available camps will appear. Weekend activity registration for these activities does not include overnight accommodations. If you have a Camp Certified volunteer, submit an F-127 to request an overnight stay. Registration for activities closes two weeks before event. Requests for late registrations or changes can't be accommodated. Oct. 5
Oct.12
Oct. 19 Oct. 26
Camp Agnes Arnold
H
H
H
Misty Meadows Ranch
R, L, S, A, H
A, R, L, R, L, S, H S, H
S, H R*, L*, H, A
S
Camp Robinwood
Nov. 2
R, L, H
Nov. 9
Nov. 16 Nov. 23 Dec. 7
Dec. 14 Dec. 21
H
H
H
A, H
H
H
H
R, L, H
R, L, H
A, R, L, H
R, L, H
R, L, H
A, C, H A
Camp Silver Springs
A, S
Casa Mare
S, A
A A
Camp Wind-aMere
A
Lake Jackson Resource Center Camp Pryor Camp Whispering Pines
S, A
A, S, C
A A
Archery: (A)Archery is available for Brownies (girls in second grade) or older. Sessions are now one and one half hours! 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., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 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. Taste of Canoeing: (C) Canoeing is a great team-building activity and an enjoyable and relaxing way to experience the outdoors. This is an introductory course for Brownies through Ambassadors, with no previous training required. Council-provided canoe instructors will teach girls waterfront safety and basic canoe strokes. Limit of 12 girls per session. Session Times: Saturday at 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. If you have your own adult FOC or American Canoe Association instructor, submit a Program Registration form and appropriate certifications to registration@sjgs.org, and a separate time will be reserved for your troop to canoe if available. Love, Hug and Groom: (L) 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. Limit of 25 girls per session. 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.. ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Horseback Riding: (R) 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. Limit of 12 girls per session. 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. Hikes with Henry and Friends: (H) 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 1 p.m. at Misty, (March through May) 10 a.m. at Arnold and Misty, (Various Dates) 1 p.m. at Robinwood Swimming: (S) 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. During these swimming sessions a lifeguard will be provided for your group. It is not necessary to provide your own lifeguard for these sessions. Council Lifeguard Session Times: Saturday at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m., 4 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. September/October2019 l The Golden Link
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Activities
Archery Advanced Archery
Girls who wish to participate in advanced archery may try our new On Target sessions or join the Archers In Motion Special Interest Group and register for monthly coaching and challenge sessions. Read on below for the two options for registration. Who: ⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ Where: Camp Robinwood, Willis When: Sept. 15, Oct. 13, Nov. 10 or Dec. 15 (times below) Contact: Dejah Covick, 713-292-0312, dcovick@sjgs.org Note: Girls should wear closed-toed shoes with socks that cover the ankle. Girls who have not registered and paid for Girl Scout membership and Special Interest Group membership may not participate in AIM. On Target (New!) Girls ages 8 and up who have tried archery before but are not yet certain they wish to participate as a member of the Special Interest Group may attend On Target sessions. On Target sessions are held monthly and include instruction. Girls shooting levels in On Target are fun and not recorded for JOAD. Each session is two hours and include all necessary equipment. Troops may register for On Target, but this is an individual activity. Adults are not allowed on the range during shooting sports and will be provided direction on waiting areas. Cost: $10 per session When: noon. Archers In Motion and JOAD Club Archers In Motion (AIM) is a Special Interest Group for girls ages 8 and older. To participate in the monthly AIM program, girls must be a current Girl Scout member, register for the annual Special Interest Group membership and select/register the monthly dates they wish to attend shooting practice. The club meets once a month so that members may shoot 36 arrows, attempting specific JOAD and GSSJC shooting levels. Levels are based on age and distance. There is also instruction on the JOAD Xperience program each month. Cost: When:
Annual SIG Membership $15; monthly sessions $10 each 10 a.m.
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. Who: Contact:
ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ
Backpacking Day Hikes with the Backpackers
Step out to 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 basic 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: ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ and adults Where: Oct. 5 – Lake Houston Wilderness Park, New Caney Nov. 2 – Cedar Hill Park, Wallisville Cost: $20 Contact: Kathy Elliott, 713-292-0300, kelliott@sjgs.org Note: Individually registered girls and troops are welcome. Lunch, backpacks and water bottles will be provided. Day hikes are NOT a substitute for or the same thing as Backpacking Orientation. Backpacking Orientation is required to join the Backpacking Special Interest Group.
Backpacking Orientation
Backpacking Orientation covers all the basic knowledge required for troops and individuals wishing to go backpacking. Don’t worry about being the only girl in your troop or an individually registered girl 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 pack a backpack, care for a tent and cook on your own personal stove. You will transfer your camping gear to your backpack and then 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, you 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. Girls who complete this orientation will be able to join the Backpacking Special Interest Group. Who: ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ ; must be 11 years-old When: Treelake Camp Complex, Podville, Conroe Where: Saturday through Sunday (see web posting for times) Oct. 19 – 20, Dec. 7 – 8, Feb. 29 – March 1 Cost: $23 Contact: Kathy Elliott, 713-292-0300, kelliott@sjgs.org Note: You will be provided with a backpack, tent and stove to use during orientation
Julia Shank, jshank@sjgs.org 713-292-0338
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ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Activities
Camp
Environmental
Carousels
Wacky for Wildlife
Camp with your Girl Scout troop at this fun-filled weekend! Program is provided. All you need to do is 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 in the woods, and a great event to attend more than once as each Carousel is unique. Get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime!
Juniors are invited to this amazing session at TWRC Wildlife Center. Girls will learn about opossums, screech owls, grey squirrels and garter snakes and their habitats as well as some of the threats they face. This session is complete with presentations, discussions, crafts and hands-on activities to inspire our girls to stand up for animals and protect the places they call home. Girls will complete all requirements for the Junior Animal Habitats badge while visiting with the amazing creatures that call this center home.
Cost: $30/person When Theme Where Oct. 11-13 Astronomy Camp Robinwood Oct. 25-27 Tents n’ Treats Camp Robinwood Dec. 13-15 Astronomy Camp Robinwood Jan. 17-19 Beads n’ Bling Camp Robinwood Apr. 17-19 Theme Coming Soon! Camp Robinwood May 8-10 GS Camp Mystery Camp Pryor May 15-17 HOST TROOP NEEDED Camp Robinwood June 19-21 Theme Coming Soon! Camp Pryor June 26-28 Theme coming soon! Camp Robinwood
Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
Armand Bayou Workshops
Girl Scouts are invited to earn a badge or complete a Journey step at Armand Bayou Nature Center. Visit this astonishingly beautiful part of the Texas Gulf Coast and become aware of how Armand Bayou Nature Center (ABNC), nestled in the Clear Lake Area, is working to preserve the wetlands prairie, forest and marsh habitats. Visitors can learn about our plant and animal inhabitants, bird-watch, hike or view our live animal displays of snakes, alligators, turtles, hawks and bison. Girls will learn about our wildlife, flora and fauna and much more. Join us and experience everything nature!
Bring: Troops are responsible for providing a Certified Outdoor Trained adult*, a current CPR/First Aider* a first aid kit, simple meals, personal camping equipment and SWAPS. Contact: Kathy Elliott, 713-292-0257, kelliott@sjgs.org Note: Carousel program is designed to serve troops. Fee includes camp fee, session materials, administrative fees and event patch. The ratio for Carousels is maximum one adult for every four girls with a minimum of two adults. Submit camp and first aid certifications to registration@sjgs.org immediately after registering and include PDF of registration receipt. Troops will be placed in units after registration closes.
Who: ⓓⓑⓙ Where: Armand Bayou Nature Center, Pasadena Wear: Closed-toed shoes- no sandals or flip flops. Dress appropriately for weather - rain or shine. Contact: Julia Shank, jshank@sjgs.org 713-292-0338
Wanted: Carousel host troops!
Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors: are you looking for an opportunity to execute a fantastic service project? Or maybe you just love to spend the weekend at camp and meet other Girl Scouts! Share your Girl Scout memories, favorite songs, games and traditions with younger girls by serving as a host troop for a Carousel event at one of our awesome camps. Carousel is an exciting twist to traditional troop camping where a host troops serves as camp counselors to coordinate the Saturday camp activities. Pick a weekend: pick a theme (or our Carousel Coordinator can provide a these and resource materials for you) and the girls and adult volunteers in your troop prepare a fun day of activities for other troops at camp.
ⓙ and their chaperones TWRC Wildlife Center, Houston Sept. 28, Oct. 26 $22/girl, free for adults badges included for girls Julia Shank, jshank@sjgs.org 713-292-0338
Workshop
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Letterboxing
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 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, go to gssjc.org, log onto the online community. Then click on property central> documents> Letterboxing. ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Between Earth and Sky Eco Learner Daisy Flower –Session 1 Daisy Flower –Session 4 Between Earth and Sky Daisy Flower –Session 1 Eco Learner Daisy Flower –Session 4 Eco Friend Bugs Outdoor Adventure WOW Sessions 1,2,&3 Eco Friend Outdoor Art Creator Outdoor Adventure Eco Friend Hiker Flowers Animal Habitats Outdoor Art Explorer Flowers Animal Habitats Flowers Outdoor Art Explorer Animal Habitats
Date
Sept. 14 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Nov. 2 Nov. 23 Nov. 30 Dec. 7 Dec. 21 Sept. 14 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 26 Nov. 2 Nov. 23 Nov. 30 Dec. 7 Dec. 21 Sept. 7 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 26 Nov. 2 Nov. 23 Nov. 30 Dec.7
Time
Level Price
11:30 a.m.–1p.m. ⓓ $17 11:30 a.m.–1p.m ⓓ $17 11:30 a.m.–1p.m ⓓ $17 11:30 a.m.–1p.m. ⓓ $17 11:30 a.m.–1p.m ⓓ $17 11:30 a.m.–1p.m ⓓ $17 11:30 a.m.–1p.m ⓓ $17 11:30 a.m. –1p.m ⓓ $17 ⓑ $17 9 – 11a.m. ⓑ $17 9 – 11 a.m. ⓑ $17 9 – 11 a.m. 9 – 11:30a.m. ⓑ $22 ⓑ $17 9 – 11 a.m. ⓑ $17 9 – 11 a.m. ⓑ $17 9 – 11 a.m. ⓑ $17 9 – 11 a.m. ⓑ $17 9 – 11 a.m. 1:30 – 4:30p.m. ⓙ $22 1:30 – 4:30p.m. ⓙ $22 1:30 – 4:30p.m. ⓙ $22 1:30 – 4:30p.m. ⓙ $22 1:30 – 4:30p.m. ⓙ $22 1:30 – 4:30p.m. ⓙ $22 1:30 – 4:30p.m. ⓙ $22 1:30 – 4:30p.m. ⓙ $22
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Activities
Matagorda Bay Nature Park Workshops
Earn a badge at Matagorda Bay Nature Park. This 1,333acre park and nature preserve is located at the mouth of the Colorado River on the Matagorda Bay peninsula. Girls will enjoy two miles of Gulf of Mexico beachfront, birdwatching in coastal marshes and wetland paddling. Where: Matagorda Bay Nature Park, Matagorda Contact: Julia Shank, jshank@sjgs.org, 713-292-0338 Cost: $18, includes badge; Beach Cleanup is $5 Beach Clean-up The Matagorda Beach Cleanup will occur as part of The Texas General Land Office Adopt-A-Beach Program. Please join us and help protect the beauty of Matagorda beaches. Lunch is provided. ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢ Who: When: Sept. 21, 8:30 a.m. – noon Eco-Learner Learn how to prepare for a hike and what to bring along. Walk the beach with a park guide and learn about the plants and animals that live there and things we see along the way. We’ll gather things we see along the way to make a picture in the sand. ⓓ Who: When: Sept. 21, 1 – 2 p.m. Geocache Learn about geocaching in Matagorda. Make a trade item, learn how to use a GPS and go on a hunt for three different coordinates to leave our items. ⓙ Who: When: Oct. 5, 9 – 11 a.m Animal Habitats Observe fish and hermit crabs in the touch tank journey to the beach and explore the different habitats that many animals make their homes and take some time to clean up trash on a portion of the beach. Also, build an animal habitat. Who: ⓙ When: Oct. 5 , 2 – 3:30 p.m. Night Owl Join the park guide on a nighttime beach hike. Learn about a special nocturnal animal that lives on the beach and use your senses to notice what’s different after dark! We’ll return to the nature center to look through telescopes. Who: ⓒ When: Nov. 16 , 6 – 8 p.m. Outdoor Adventurer We’ll buddy up and play a outdoor game on the beach. We’ll learn a new camp skill and core for the outdoors. Who: ⓑ When: Nov. 30, 9 – 11 a.m. Outdoor Art Creator Join the Park Guide to take a hike on the beach. We’ll learn how to be creative and make something with nature, make music, and be a nature photographer on the beach. Who: ⓑ When: November 30, 2-3:00 a.m. 28 September/October 2019 l The Golden Link
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Wild About Wolves
Welcome to the wolf pack! Juniors can complete the Animal Habitats badge and Seniors can complete the Voice for Animals at the St. Francis Wolf Sanctuary! This facility is a volunteer-run nonprofit that cares for non-releasable wolves and wolf-hybrids in a safe, loving environment. The sanctuary is also committed to educating the public on conservation efforts and the downside to owning exotic pets. This session includes a facility tour to meet the animals that call this place home as well as the badge workshop with a unique twist and focus on these majestic creatures. Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
ⓙ ⓢ and their chaperones St. Francis Wolf Sanctuary, Montgomery Juniors - Sept. 8, Sept. 29, Oct. 20, Nov. 10, Dec. 8 Seniors - Sept. 1, Sept. 22, Nov. 3, Dec. 1 $22/girl, $11/adult, badges included for girls Julia Shank, jshank@sjgs.org 713-292-0338
Nature Center Workshops
Spend some time enjoying nature and visiting camp! Camp Agnes Arnold Nature Center has an ongoing workshop series featuring some amazing programs. A GSSJC Nature Center patch will be given out as well. There’s one for each program, collect them all! Who: ⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ and their chaperones Where: Camp Agnes Arnold Nature Center, Conroe Wear: Closed-toe shoes and dress appropriately for weather, rain or shine Cost: $13/girl Bee Smart Thanks to pollinators like bees, we have a variety of fruits, vegetables, flowers and plants. Without them, our plates and gardens would be dull and boring. Find out about bees and why they’re so great! When: Oct. 5, 10 am. – noon or 1 – 3 p.m. Batty for Bats Did you know that a huge bat colony calls Houston home? When: Oct. 26, 10 – 11:30 a.m. Birds r Us Join TWRC Wildlife Center and Animal Care programs are they give a presentation about the care of baby birds and the most common species here in Houston. They will discuss raptors and the unique ability that we have to see bald eagles as they migrate though Houston in the spring and fall. They will be able to see and take a picture with a real life eastern screech owl! When: October 19, 10 – 11:30 a.m Flower Power If you love flowers in nature, here is you chance to learn more about them! Girl Scouts will learn about the importance of Texas Native Flowers. They will create and take home a native seed ball. When: October 19, 12:30 – 2:30 p.m. Nature Rocks If you love exploring mushrooms, bugs, edible plants and critters that live in the forest and all things in nature, join us for this nature workshop. Make leaf rubbings and leaf mounts to identify the trees of our environment. Take a tree hike around the camp to learn the many different and interesting things in nature! When: Nov. 2, 10 a.m. – noon or 1:30 – 3 p.m. ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Activities
"Frozen Jr. The Musical" Birds and Bayous
Join the Houston Audubon Society in this informative workshop on local birds in our area, meet the raptors (hawks and owls) that live at the center, learn about bird conservation and famous women from the past and present, learn to identify species native to Texas, their habitats and more! This workshop includes nature exploration, birding with binoculars, painting, hiking and more. Who: ⓑⓙ When: Oct. 19, Feb. 8, March 14; 9 a.m. – noon Where: Sim’s Bayou Urban Nature Center, Houston Cost: $23
What's Bugging You? - Pollinators, Pests & Habitats
Join the Fort Bend Master Gardeners for this fun and workshop. Girl Scouts will learn how insects affect our lives and environment. Brownie will work toward the Brownie Bugs Badge. A fun patch and snack are included. Who: ⓑⓙⓒ When: Nov. 2, 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Where: Bud O'Shieles Community Center, Rosenberg Cost: $18
Fine Arts Grease, live on stage!
Art Factory presents "Greaase", live on stage! Join the incredible Art Factory performers and Creative Team for a fun and exciting workshop, learning to “Hand Jive,” just like the Pink Ladies. Your family will have a blast dancing and singing along with Art Factory’s professional actors and learning choreography you will see later on in the show. After having lunch with your troop or family, you’re invited to enjoy the show with your group. After the show, you will have the opportunity to meet the whole cast and get autographs. Please note that "Grease" is rated PG for some adult themes. The lines and story are equivalent to the movie. Who: (Suggested) ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ, adults and tagalongs When: Sept. 15 Where: The Art Factory, Houston Workshop: 1 – 3 p.m.; Lunch/Dinner on your own from 3 – 4:30 p.m.; Performance: 5 p.m. Price: $25/ticket, includes workshop and ticket Contact: Heather Vandivort, 713-292-0269, hvandivort@sjgs.org Note: Parents and tagalongs can participate during the workshop.
ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Christian Youth Theater presents "Disney’s Frozen Jr!" Learn a fun dance to a song from the show in a preshow workshop; discover theater history while making your very own mask; and learn drama techniques through fun games. Girls will then perform the dance you have learned on stage at the end of the workshop. After having lunch on your own, come back and attend the matinee show performed by the amazing CYT cast! After the show, you will have the opportunity to meet the cast and get autographs and pictures. Who: Where: When: Time: Cost: Contact: Note:
ⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ, adults
The Crighton Theater, Conroe Nov. 16 Workshop is 9 a.m. - noon, lunch on your own noon - 1:30 p.m., matinee show starts at 2 p.m. $32/girl; $16 for Adults and Tagalongs Heather Vandivort, hvandivort@sjgs.org, 713-292-0269 Girl Registration includes a light snack, matinee ticket for the same day and a fun patch. Registration deadline: Nov. 8
"The Wizard of Oz"
Art Factory presents "The Wizard Of Oz", live on stage! Join the incredible Art Factory performers and Creative Team for a fun and exciting workshop, learning to “Jitterbug” with Dorothy and her friends! You will have a blast dancing down the Yellow Brick Road with Art Factory’s professional actors and learning choreography you will see later on in the show. After having lunch with your troop or family, you’re invited to enjoy the show with your group. After the show, you will have the opportunity to meet the whole cast and get autographs. Who: ⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ, adults and tagalongs When: Nov. 24 Where: The Art Factory, Houston, 1125 Providence St. Workshop: 1 – 3 p.m.; Lunch/Dinner on your own from 3 – 4:30 p.m.; Performance: 5 p.m. Price: $25/ticket, includes workshop and ticket Contact: Heather Vandivort, 713-292-0269, hvandivort@sjgs.org; Note: Parents and tagalongs can participate during the workshop.
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 and receive their Digital Photographer badge. Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
ⓙ and their chaperones
Houston Center for Photography Sept. 15, Oct. 13; 1 – 3:30 p.m. or 3:30 – 6 p.m; $45/girl; free for adults Heather Vandivort, hvandivort@sjgs.org, 713-292-0269 September/October2019 l The Golden Link
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Activities
"The Nutcracker" at Houston Ballet
The holiday season reignites with Houston Ballet’s spectacular production of The Nutcracker. Enjoy the timeless classic ballet featuring Clara, Sugar Plumb Fairy and the Nutcracker Prince in this magic adventure. Before the performance, Girl Scouts will earn the GSSJC Nutcracker patch in a fun workshop. After completing the patch, girl scouts, siblings and parents are invited to the amazing performance of the Nutcracker Ballet! Tickets are limited, so don’t delay! Houston Ballet has reserved a block of tickets for Girl Scouts. Tickets will be issued at the workshop or will call booth. Who: When: Where: Price: Contact:
ⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ,
adults and tagalongs Dec. 15 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., lunch on your own Workshop will be at the Center for Dance, Houston Show will be at the Wortham Theater Center $30 for Balcony and $60 for Grand Tier seating Heather Vandivort, 713-292-0269, hvandivort@sjgs.org;
Musical Theatre Dance Workshop
Art Factory invites you to get in on the action, with a highenergy workshop in dance for musical theatre! This fun intensive will be led by Art Factory’s extraordinary resident choreographer Luke Hamilton, as he introduces you to the exciting world of Broadway dance. Participants will learn fun choreography directly from your favorite Broadway musicals, alongside Art Factory’s company of professional performers. This is an amazing opportunity to shine like a star and strut your stuff. Brownies will earn their Brownie Dancer badge Juniors will earn their Staying Fit badge Who: ⓑⓙ When: October 5th 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Where: The Art Factory, Houston Cost: $20 Contact: Heather Vandivort, 713-292-0269, hvandivort@sjgs.org;
Senior Collage Artist Badge Workshop Complete all the steps of the Senior Collage Artist badge. Girls will need to bring 8-10 printed out photographs of family, friends or favorite items/activities. Who: When: Where: Cost: Contact:
Fine Arts Workshops
Do you have a zest for art? Do you enjoy playing with clay, making your own jewelry, painting, drawing or fancy some photography? Explore the world of visual arts in these workshops. Create original artwork and earn badges! Who: ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢ Bring: Smock or apron for art classes Cost: See below, free for adults Contact: Heather Vandivort, hvandivort@sjgs.org, 713-292-0269 Badge Workshop Date Junior Jeweler Sept. 14 Fashion Academy: Shoes Sept. 14 Cadette Woodworker Sept. 21 Senior Textile Sept. 28 Senior Collage Artist Sept. 28 Cadette Public Speaking Oct. 5 Cadette Screenwriter Oct. 5 Brownie Painter Oct. 12 Fashion Academy:Pumpkins Oct. 12 Junior Scribe Oct. 19 Brownie Potter Oct. 26
Time 10 a.m. – noon 10 a.m. – noon 10 a.m. – noon 10 a.m. – noon 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. 10 a.m. – noon 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. 10 a.m. – noon 10 a.m. – noon 10 a.m. – noon 10 a.m. – noon
Place Cost/girl Program Place $25 Creativity Shell $22 Girl Scout Center $25 Program Place $25 Program Place $25 Program Place $25 Program Place $25 Program Place $25 Creativity Shell $22 Program Place $25 Izzie’s Jewels $25
Brownie Potter Badge – Crafts made with clay have been around for thousands of years. Work your way through this badge to become a clay artist yourself. Brownie Painting Badge – Artists take what they see and make it beautiful. Learn to paint and color your world in super strokes and see what your imagination can do. Junior Jeweler Badge – Join us to learn all about designing and creating custom-made jewelry and earn your Jeweler badge. 30 September/October 2019 l The Golden Link
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Sept. 21, 2 – 4 p.m. Kingwood Branch Library, Houston $15/girl, free for adults Lola Akapo, 713-292-0353, lakapo@sjgs.org
Junior Scribe Badge – 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. Cadette Public Speaker Badge – Work on your stage presence and develop your onstage skills. Find your inner performer and be unafraid to speak up. Cadette Screenwriter Badge – Are you ready for the big screen? Let’s explore what makes great scripts and how you can create your very own. You have what it takes to be a great screenwriter, so let’s get started! Cadette Woodworker Badge – Swing a Hammer, use a level and making something for yourself! Girls will learn how to use some basic tools to create a take home piece! Senior Collage Artist Badge – Create a collage using textile art and make a project of your very own. Junior Textile Artist Badge – Get ready to turn colors, textures and fabrics into a work of art. Learn about the basics of textile art and bring home a project of your own. Fashion Academy (FA) – (Juniors- Seniors) Have you dreamed of being a famous fashion or costume designer? Or maybe you would just like to learn how to sew to up-cycle used clothing.
ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Activities
General Activities Cadette Weekend Girl Planning Board
Would you like to help plan GSSJC’s biannual Cadette Weekend event? Girls will have an opportunity to plan this popular event for their peers. They will be able to create a theme and decide what activities this event will happen throughout the whole weekend. The sky is the limit! Girls will need to attend planning/work meetings as well as be present the for the event. Who: Where: When: Apply: Contact:
ⓒⓢⓐ
Meetings at Girl Scout Center; Event at Camp Agnes Arnold Meetings Oct. – March; Event April 24-26, 2020 Fill out the online GPB application gssjc.org/ forms; due Oct. 7 cadetteweekend@gssjc.org or 713-292-0269
Cadette Weekend Adult Volunteers needed
Cadette Weekend needs a group of great volunteers to help this large event run smoothly! If you are interested in helping in any way, please contact us! We need your help! All volunteers must be members and have a current background check. If interested, email cadetteweekend@sjgs.org. Event is April 24–26.
Slithering Friends Workshop
Texas snakes are plentiful, beautiful and exciting to watch. If you don't, there's still plenty to learn and respect. Identifying the difference between venomous and non-venomous snakes on sight is essential to safety and peace of mind. Overcoming phobias is not easy when someone is raised to fear and hate snakes, but with a little knowledge and some verifiable facts, people can learn to give snakes the respect that they deserve. And you’ll learn that in this innovative workshop! Who: ⓒⓢⓐ When: Oct. 11, 6:30 – 8 p.m. Where: Katy ISD Law Enforcement Center Contact: Lola Akapo, 713-292-0353, lakapo@sjgs.org
Act Your Wage
Be the first to yell "I'm debt free!" as you earn your Budgeting badge in this life-size rendition of the board game Act Your Wage. You will spend, save, and give while working through the income and expenses of everyday list. But instead of moving a piece around a board game, you'll enter a life-size adventure to carry out the game and learn how to budget. The Budgeting badge will provided to attendees.
ⓒ Who: When: October 26 Where: TBD, Katy Contact: Lola Akapo, 713-292-0353, lakapo@sjgs.org
ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
2019 Global Action Award Workshop
Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors are invited to this 2019 Global Action Award Workshop session. Earn your Global Action Award: This year, the Girl Scout Global Action Award is focused on SDG 1: No Poverty and SDG 15: Life on Land. Activities include discovering themselves and their values in relation to poverty and life on land while exploring the issues related to Sustainable Development Goals 1: No Poverty and 15: Life on Land and how those issues impact oneself, her community and the world. Who: When: Where: Cost: Contact:
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Oct. 20, 1:30 – 5:30 p.m. Lone Star College, Cypress $10 /girl, free for adults Lola Akapo, 713-292-0353, lakapo@sjgs.org
Daisy Event
Dive into the world of Girl Scouting by learning about our mission statement, songs and traditions. Girl price covers 2-3 petals. Lunch is not provided. Who: When: Where: Cost: Contact:
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Nov. 16, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Cornerstone United Methodist Church, Houston $13/girl, free for adults Lola Akapo, 713-292-0353, lakapo@sjgs.org
Older girls, plan/help at event and earn the Service to Girl Scouting Bar
Girls will be required to volunteer at the Daisy event and attend all planning meetings in order to receive the Service to Girl Scouting bar. Planning Meeting Dates: All times are 6:30 – 8:15 p.m. Nov. 4, Nov. 6, Nov. 12, Nov. 14 Daisy Day Event: Who: ⓒⓢⓐ When: Nov. 16, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Where: Cornerstone United Methodist Church, Houston Cost: $10/girl Contact: Lola Akapo, 713-292-0353, lakapo@sjgs.org
Car Care Badge Workshop
You're old enough to drive, what's next? This workshop will teach you how to handle basic car maintenance, learn about vehicle safety and more. Participants will earn and receive the Car Care badge. Who: ⓢ When: Oct. 17, 6 – 8 p.m. Where: Service First Automotive, Katy Contact: Lola Akapo, 713-292-0353, lakapo@sjgs.org
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Activities
G.I.R.L with a Plan
Would you like to make your first big purchase? Would you like to plan a trip with your friends but have no idea where to start? Learn how to budget and save to make your wants a reality. Girls will earn the Budgeting badge. Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
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Program Place for Girls, Houston Oct. 5, 9 – 11 a.m. Nov. 16, 9 – 11 a.m... $15/girl, free for adults Lola Akapo, lakapo@sjgs.org, 713-292-0353
Doll Collecting GSSJC Program Patch Workshop Learn about the art of dolls as you explore the third largest collecting hobby: doll collecting! We’ll go on an exhibit scavenger hunt, discover dolls through the generations, and find out just exactly what are little dolls made of. Bring your own favorite doll for a doll fashion show! We will finish by making a unique doll to add to your own collection. Please also bring an extra doll for donation to a local charity. The doll may be homemade or store bought.
ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ Who: Where: West Bay Common School Children's Museum, League City When: Oct. 19, 1:30 – 3 p.m. Cost: $19
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Wall Street 101
Did you know that you have the power to fund your future? Someday you will want to make a big purchase, take out a loan or own a credit card. At this event, you will learn from female finance executives who have the experience to guide you, trade stocks in the finance center simulator and make decisions that matter! Girls will work on elements of their financial literacy badges: Financing My Future, Buying Power and Good Credit Who: When: Where: Cost: Contact:
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Oct. 19, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Rice University, Houston $15/girl, free for adults Lola Akapo, 713-292-0353, lakapo@sjgs.org
Good Neighbor Daisy Badge Workshop
Find out how to be a good neighbor in your community! Learn about what it means to be a good citizen as we tour League City’s first fire station and first ice house, as well as a real one room schoolhouse from 1898. We’ll also get to know Texas and why this area was once the Strawberry Capital of the South. We’ll end with a special Texas treat in our lovely Garden Classroom!
ⓓ Who: Where: West Bay Common School Children's Museum, League City When: Sept. 21, 1:30 – 3 p.m. Cost: $19
ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Activities
Brownie Magic
Calling all Brownie troops! Have you ever been to a Girl Scout camp? If not, we have a magical experience that you won’t want to miss. Does learning new songs, dances and games sound fun? How about exploring the great outdoors and creating new experiences while meeting new friends? Bring your leaders and your troop and join us at Brownie Magic! Who: ⓑ and adult chaperones* Contact: Julia Shank, jshank@sjgs.org 713-292-0338 Time: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Where: Casa Mare, Seabrook Cost: $18/girl; $9/adult When: Nov. 2 Min./Max: 100/300 girls; 50/100 adults Where: Camp Whispering Pines, Garrison Cost: $18/girl; $9/adult When: Nov. 16 Min./Max: 30/60 girls; 10/20 adults Where: Camp Myra S. Pryor, Nada Cost: $18/girl; $9/adult When: Nov. 16 Min./Max: 60/90 girls; 20/30 adults Where: Camp Robinwood, Willis Cost: $18/girl; $9/adult When: Nov. 9, Dec. 7 Min./Max: 50/200 girls; 20/60 adults *Space is limited to the minimum ratio of adults (see Volunteer Essentials) for each troop to ensure space for more Brownies to attend. Extra adults may be canceled with full refund to ensure ratios are met for all troops. Registration opens Sept. 4 at 8 a.m.
G.I.R.L with Good Credit
One of these days you’ll want to buy something big like a car or a house. So, how do you get a loan? Learn how to put your money to work from a top Financial Adviser. Girls will earn their Good Credit badge. Who: When: Where: Cost: Contact:
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October 26, 10 a.m. – noon The Program Place for Girls, Houston $15/girl, free for adults Lola Akapo, 713-292-0353, lakapo@sjgs.org
Geocaching
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. For a list of geocaches at our camps or information on how to set up new geocaches, go to gssjc.org, log onto the online community. Then click on property central> documents> Geocaching. ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Activities
Brownie Quest Journey
Brownies are old enough to understand and appreciate the concept and value of leadership. The three keys they will uncover along this journey are the keys of the Girl Scout leadership philosophy-Discover, Connect and Take Action. The Brownie Quest Journey badge will be provided to girls in attendance. One Brownie Quest Girl Journey book per troop. Brownie Quest badge is provided. Lunch is not provided. Who: When: Where: Cost: Contact:
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October 12, 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Cornerstone United Methodist Church, Houston $15/girl, $3/adult Lola Akapo, 713-292-0353, lakapo@sjgs.org
Cadettes, plan/help at event and earn the LiA Award
Cadettes will earn their LiA Award while helping Brownies complete their Brownie Quest Journey. Brownie Quest badge is provided. Lunch and bottle water are provided. Cadettes are required to participate in all planning meetings and on the event day. Planning Meetings: All times are 6:30 – 8:15 p.m. Oct. 1, Oct. 3, Oct. 8, Oct. 10 Event Day Who: When: Where: Cost: Contact:
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Oct. 12, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Cornerstone United Methodist Church, Houston $12/girl, $4/adult Lola Akapo, 713-292-0353, lakapo@sjgs.org
"Undies for Everyone" Service Workshop
Pack underwear as we help disadvantaged students by helping them find the self-esteem, dignity, hygiene and success by providing them with clean underwear. Where: Undies for Everyone Warehouse, Houston When: Oct. 6 or Nov. 10, 1 – 3 p.m. Cost: Free Contact: Lola Akapo, 713-292-0353, lakapo@sjgs.org
Woodworker Badge Workshop
Woodworking gives you a feeling of accomplishment. You can make stylish, useful things for yourself and others. Plus its fun. Cadettes will earn their Woodworker badge and make a small craft from scratch to show off to their friends. Who: When: Where: Cost: Contact:
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Nov. 3, 1 – 4 p.m. Park Avenue Yarns, League City $30/girl, free for adults Lola Akapo, 713-292-0353, lakapo@sjgs.org September/October2019 l The Golden Link
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Activities
College 101
Let’s go to college! Join us at the University of St. ThomasHouston to discuss how to navigate preparing for college. In this workshop, girls will be able to explore college options, learn about ways to pay for college and apply for scholarships, determine what a “good fit” college would be and more. Girls will be able to ask university staff about the admissions process and gain a better understanding on how to accomplish this next chapter in their life! Who: ⓢⓐand adults Where: University of St. Thomas, Houston When: Oct. 5, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Cost: $10/girl Contact: Megan Dodd, mdodd@sjgs.org, 713-292-0209
G.I.R.L with a Dream
What do you see yourself doing to earn a living? What type of things do you enjoy now that may help you build a career in the future? What subjects/classes would you want to continue to study in college? Have you thought about college - where you may want to go, what you may want to study? Do you know anyone in college or who just graduated (brother/sister, etc)? Explore these subjects and more while earning your Financing My Dreams badge. Who: When: Where: Cost: Contact:
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October 5, 10 a.m. – noon The Program Place for Girls, Houston $15/girl, free for adults Lola Akapo, 713-292-0353, lakapo@sjgs.org
Activities
WOW Journey for Brownies!
This Journey for Brownies follows friends Alejandra, Campbell, Jamilla and Brownie Elf as they enjoy some amazing wonders of water. Girls will learn about the endless water cycle and have a good time making their own rainbows as they explore our precious resource of water. They'll meet inspiring women working for water, learn Girl Scout history and, as a team, come to understand that WOW also stands for Ways of Working. They reach out to their community as they advocate for other people to get involved in protecting water too! All badge requirements will be completed with the understanding that the Take Action project will be completed on their own. Who: When: Where: Cost: Contact:
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October 26, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Camp Pryor, Nada $20/girl, $5/adult Lola Akapo, 713-292-0353, lakapo@sjgs.org
Cadette WOW Leadership in Action
Girls will learn the basics of working with younger girls and planning sessions to help Brownies earn their WOW Journey. The event will end with Brownies joining us at camp to help the Cadettes earn their LiA while completing all the sessions of the WOW Journey except the Take Action project. Who: When: Where: Cost: Contact:
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Oct. 20, 2 – 7 p.m. and Fri., Oct. 25, 6 p.m. – Sat., Oct. 26, 9 p.m. Camp Pryor, Nada $35/girl, $15/adult Lola Akapo, 713-292-0353, lakapo@sjgs.org
Cookie College
Would you like to be a Cookie Entrepreneurship Officer (CEO)? Do you want to be a top seller but just don't know how? Come out to Cookie College and learn all you need to know about being a Cookie boss. Girls will get a chance to show their creativity while exploring fun possibilities to help grow their cookie business! They will develop their creative freedom, financial independence, and get savvy tips on how to be the best they can be! Join us for a fun-filled day of enhancing your inner entrepreneurial skills that will help grow our girls into the next best entrepreneurs and leaders of the world. Who: ⓓⓑⓙⓒ Check online for upcoming dates and places! Contact: Lola Akapo, 713-292-0353, lakapo@sjgs.org
Program Aide Training
Program Aide is a teen mentoring award for Cadettes and Program Aides are in high demand. Program Aides work with younger girls in a variety of settings from day or twilight Camps to one-time events. If you are interested in a leadership experience specifically designed for working with younger Girls Scouts, this is for you! All Cadettes who have finished one Leader-In-Action (LiA) award are eligible to register for this training. If you plan to be a Program Aide at any of the day or twilight camps, you must complete Program Aide training prior to the camp date. Who: When: Cost: When: Cost:
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Oct. 27, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m./Camp Pryor, Nada Lola Akapo, 713-292-0353, lakapo@sjgs.org $20 Nov. 16, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m./Program Place for Girls Kelli Cavenah, kcavenah@sjgs.org, 713-292-0271 $15/girl
Texas 2020 Women’s Right to Vote Centennial Girl Scout Patch Program
Girl Scouts across Texas will celebrate the beginning of women’s access to the right to vote as we near the centennial celebration of the passage of the 19th amendment in 2020. We are excited for girls to learn more about the process of amending the constitution and the efforts that take place to get an amendment ratified into law by introducing the Texas 2020 Women’s Right to Vote Centennial Patch Program for Girl Scouts. Go to www.gssjc.org/righttovote to download the patch requirements, complete activities from each category of Discover, Connect and Take Action, and fill out the form to receive a free patch. 34 September/October 2019 l The Golden Link
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Activities
Recipe for Success Workshops
Recipe for Success is on a mission to show you how to make healthy food fun and delicious! Culinary professionals offer girls a hands-on cooking class where they can practice culinary skills in a safe environment. Badge is provided for all except Holiday Snacks. Who: Time: Cost: Contact: Times:
Girls and their chaperones 10 a.m.- noon $25/girl, $23/adult Julia Swank, jshank@sjgs.org 713-292-0338 Saturdays, 10 a.m. – noon ; Sundays 2 – 4 p.m.
Healthy Snacks - Make great snacks for yourself and your friends. When you eat them, they’ll give you the energy to think, hike, run around, dress up–and do all the other activities you love to do. Who: ⓑ When: Sept. 21, Oct. 8 Simple Meals - There’s steam and bubbles, interesting tools, and amazing smells . . . and lots of room for experiments. Use these steps to make amazing meals and learn to create a whole meal of your own. Who: ⓙ When: Sept. 7, Oct. 8 New Cuisine - Culinary possibilities are as diverse as the glove of people who cook them. In this badge, cook up dishes from across time and distance and find out where your taste buds want to travel! Who: ⓒ When: Sept. 26 Eating for You- 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, stress less, and get smooth skin, shiny hair and strong nails. Who: ⓒ When: Sept. 8, Oct. 27
Health My Best Self Workshop
Laughter is the best medicine! We invite Brownies to experience a new way to exercise. Laughter yoga is an activity that lets girls have fun while learning ways to live stress-free. Brownies will earn and receive their My Best Self badge. Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
ⓑ and their chaperones Program Place for Girls, Houston Sept. 21, Oct. 26, Nov. 9; 10 – 11:30 a.m. $16/girl; free for adults Julia Shank, jshank@sjgs.org, 713-292-0338
Science of Happiness Badge Workshop
Laughter is the best medicine! We invite Cadettes to experience a new way to exercise. Laughter yoga is an activity that lets girls have fun while learning ways to live stress-free. Cadettes will earn and receive their Science of Happiness badge. Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
ⓒ and their chaperones Program Place for Girls, Houston Oct. 19; 10 – 11:30 a.m. $16/girl; free for adults Julia Shank, jshank@sjgs.org, 713-292-0338
Senior Women’s Health Badge Workshop
Join Baylor College of Medicine as we complete the Women’s Health badge requirements. Nothing’s more important than good health and, as women, we have unique health issues at every stage of our lives. How can you make the health decisions that are right for you and what kinds of support are out there to guide you? Earn this badge to find out! Identify health topics facing women, explore those that matter most to you and, in the last step reach out and raise awareness to spread good health to the women in the world. Who: When: Where: Cost: Contact:
ⓢ
Nov. 16, 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. United Way Fort Bend Center, Houston $15/girl, free for adult Lola Akapo, 713-292-0353, lakapo@sjgs.org
Girl Scout Destinations Orientation
Girl Scout Destinations are the ultimate adventure for individual girls ages 11 and older! With different trips every year, there’s something amazing for everyone. Pack your bags full of life-changing experiences and make friends from all over the country as you travel with Girl Scouts from different states. All Destinations trips are posted on the Girl Scout website: forgirls.girlscouts.org/travel/take-a-trip/destinations/. If this is something you might be interested in, please join us as we talk about upcoming destinations and how to apply! Who: ⓒⓢⓐ Adults Where: Girl Scout Center, Houston When: Sept. 14 or Oct. 20, noon – 1:30 p.m. Cost: $5/attendee Contact: Heather Vandivort, 713-292-0269, hvandivort@sjgs.org
ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Dr. Girl Scout
Pretend you are a doctor for a day with the Little Medical School. During this activity, girls will learn the ins-and-outs of what it takes to Activities care for their bodies. Daisies will earn the Gloria petal while Brownies earn the My Best Self badge. Daisy petals are not included as they are sold in a set. Daisies will receive a fun patch instead. Brownies will receive their My Best Self badge. Who: ⓓⓑ and their chaperones Where: Program Place for Girls, Houston When: Sept. 14, Oct. 19, Nov. 9; 10 a.m. – noon Cost: $20/girl Contact: Julia Shank, jshank@sjgs.org, 713-292-0338
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Activities
Pet Vet
Whether they’re cute and cuddly or slimy and scaly, pets are so much fun! If you hope to have a pet someday, this badge workshop will help you make sure it stays happy and healthy. Learn all about an animals’ body language, sleeping habits, feeding schedules and more. Brownies will earn and receive the Pets badge with the Little Veterinarian School. Who: ⓑ and their chaperones When: Sept. 14, Oct. 19 Time: 1 – 3 p.m. Where: Program Place for Girls, Houston Cost: $20/girl Contact: Julia Shank, jshank@sjgs.org, 713-292-0338
First Aid Badge Workshop
Participants will tour the medical facility, make a small first aid kit and speak with doctors and nurses on staff. They will also get to see a real working ambulance (subject to availability when not on a call). Meet your neighborhood medical team and earn a badge while you’re at it! Girls will earn their respective First Aid Badges. Badges will be given out at the location based on the level listed in the girl's Girl Scout account. Who: ⓑⓙ Cost: $15 Contact: Kelli Cavenah, kcavenah@sjgs.org, 713-292-0271 When/Where: Sept. 21 Kingwood Neighbors Emergency Center 9 – 10:30 a.m. Sept. 28 Baytown Neighbors Emergency Center 9 – 10:30 a.m. Sept. 29 Pasadena Neighbors Emergency Center 1 – 2:30 p.m. Oct. 12 Pasadena Neighbors Emergency Center 9 – 10:30 a.m. Oct. 19 Porter Neighbors Emergency Center 9 – 10:30 a.m. Oct. 24 Pearland Neighbors Emergency Center 6 - 8 p.m. Nov. 2 Kingwood Neighbors Emergency Center 9 – 10:30 a.m. Nov. 10 Baytown Neighbors Emergency Center 1 – 2:30 p.m. Nov. 23 Porter Neighbors Emergency Center 9 – 10:30 a.m. Dec. 7 Pasadena Neighbors Emergency Center 9 – 10:30 a.m. Dec. 14 Pasadena Neighbors Emergency Center 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Houston Food Bank Workshops
Clover Daisy Petal Workshop Learn how to use your resources wisely in this Clover petal workshop. Talk about Clover's story, make a collage of ideas and practice being resourceful, just like Clover. Who knows more about being resourceful than the Houston Food Bank. Hear about the organization's mission and what they do to serve families in Houston every day. Clover petal will be earned but not provided as Daisy petals are sold as a set. Petal not included in the price of the event. Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
ⓓ and their chaperones
Red Cross Babysitting Training
This training covers everything from the business of babysitting (advertising, interviewing, charging, budgeting) to proper activities while on the job (developmental stages for kids of all ages, activities to do with the kids, etc). It also covers how to handle behavioral problems and what to do in an emergency. Although some basic information on what to do will be included, this is not a first aid/CPR/AED course.
ⓒⓢⓐ girls 11 and older Who: Where: Girl Scout Center, Houston When: Oct. 26, Nov. 2, Dec. 7; 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Cost: $45 Contact: Kelli Cavenah, kcavenah@sjgs.org, 713-292-0271 Night at the Health Museum
The Night at the Health Museum Enjoy a fun overnight experience at The Health Museum. Dinner is optional (at an extra cost). Breakfast is included in the registration price. If you did not choose a dinner option, then please plan on bringing your own. Where: The Health Museum, Houston Cost: $50/girl; $20/adults Contact: Julia Shank, jshank@sjg.org, 713-292-0338 First Aid and Healthy Living Brownies and Juniors will work through their First Aid and Healthy Living badge during a fun overnight experience at The Health Museum! Play a life-health trivia game show and explore the museum at night. Who: When:
ⓑⓙ
Oct. 18, 5:30 p.m. – Oct. 19, 8 a.m.
First Aid and STEM This exciting overnight will teach girl how to keep their bodies healthy while engaging into STEM activities. Juniors will earn their Staying fit and Detective badge. Brownies will earn their My Best Self badge and Home Scientist badge. Who: When:
ⓑⓙ
Nov. 8, 5:30 p.m. – Nov. 9, 8 a.m.
First Aid and Heathy Living Nothing is more important than good health, and as women we have unique health issues at every stage of our lives. Girls will learn about their health by playing games, build each other up and explore the museum at night. Cadettes will earn their Science of Happiness badge, and Seniors will earn their Women's Health badge. Both levels will earn their First Aid badge. Who: When:
ⓒⓢ
Nov. 8, 5:30 p.m. – Nov. 9, 8 a.m.
Houston Food Bank Sept. 21, 10 – 11:30 a.m $18/girl, free for adults Julia Shank, jshank@sjgs.org, 713-292-0269
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ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Activities
High Adventure Adventure Courses
Join us for a Saturday of adventure! Whether it is a swing from our power swing or building a strong team, we have exciting options for you on our adventure course! General information for all activities: Where: Camp Silver Springs, Willis Contact: Stephanie Moore, 713-292-0299, smoore@sjgs.org Note: If rain has affected the course within 48 hours of the activity and/or outside temperature is 45 degrees and below the activity will be re-scheduled. Cancellation for cold weather will occur 24 hours before the scheduled activity and for rain, cancellation will be made 48 hours prior. The person who registered for the activity will receive the cancellation call. For activities that are 12 and up, girl must be 12 by the time of registration. Team Building Adventure: This program will encourage your group to build trust, develop effective communication, hone their leadership and more. They work together through challenges on the ground. With the help of your thoughtful and well-trained staff, the program offered can be designed to meet the goals of your group. This activity is low courses only.
ⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ ages 8 and up Who: When: Oct. 26, Nov. 30; 9:30 a.m. – noon, 1 – 3:30 p.m. Cost: $30/person Power Adventure: Take your high adventure to the next level! During these two and a half hours, you will swing high in the air on the swing and take the ultimate leap of faith on the power pole. Whether troop camping or just coming out for the day, the power swing and power pole are open to any Girl Scout group, troop or individual girls ages 12 and older. When: Cost:
Sept. 28, 9:30 a.m. – noon; 1 –3:30 p.m. $30/person; Min./Max.: 6/12
Troop Adventure Course: Build troop support, improve communication and develop resourcefulness in your girls by participating in a fun adventure through 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 the trees.
ⓙⓒⓢⓐ ages 12-18 Who: When: Saturdays 9 a.m.-3 p.m Cost: $50/girl per session; Min./Max.: 6/12 Deadline: Six weeks prior to requested date. Note: Indicate your preferred date to use the course on your registration form. Registration is not guaranteed until confirmation letter is received. The Adventure Course is for girls only– spectators cannot be accommodated. Zip Line Adventure: Girls will have the opportunity to be fearless and try something new! Trained facilitators will guide girls ages 12 and up on the climbing wall and zipline for a memorable outing. The climbing wall and zipline are open to any Girl Scout group, troop or individual.
ⓙⓒⓢⓐages 12-18 Who: When: Oct. 12, Nov. 9; 9 – 11 a.m., noon – 2 p.m., 2 – 4 p.m. Cost: $30/person ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Highest Awards Earn a Highest Award!
Bronze. Silver. Gold. These represent the highest honors a Girl Scout can earn. All three awards give you the chance to do big things while supporting an issue you care about. You might plant a community garden at your school or inspire others to eat healthy foods for your Bronze, advocate for animal rights for your Silver, or build a career network that encourages girls to become scientists and engineers for your Gold. Whatever you choose, you’ll inspire others (and yourself). As you earn one of Girl Scouts’ highest awards, you’ll change your corner of the world–and beyond. The possibilities are endless. Who: ⓙⓒⓢⓐ Learn More: Review the GSSJC project guides for more information at gssjc.org/highestawards Contact: bronzeaward@sjgs.org, silveraward@sjgs.org or goldaward@sjgs.org
Silver Award Training
Join us for this training designed to equip troop leaders, advisors and parents who are looking to support Cadettes through the process of earning the Silver Award. Topics include project guidelines, submission deadlines and coaching tips. Who: Adults Where: Girl Scout Center, Houston When: Nov. 16; 10 – 11:30 a.m. Cost: $5/person Contact: Megan Dodd, silveraward@sjgs.org, 713-292-0209
Online Gold Award Orientation
The Gold Award Orientation provides girls and adults with: a comprehensive overview of the Gold Award steps and forms, tools for identifying and developing Gold Award projects that fall within the national guidelines, and GSSJC’s process for Gold Award applicants. The Gold Award Orientation is required for girls pursuing their Gold Award and has moved online! The online orientation is broken into sections, takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete, but does not need to be finished in one sitting. Girls may also refer back to it after it’s been completed. Girls are encouraged to complete one Senior or Ambassador Journey before attending orientation. Who: ⓢⓐor girls in grades 9 – 12 and adults Where/When: Online Cost: $5/person Contact: Megan Dodd, goldaward@sjgs.org, 713-292-0209 Important reminder: As of Jan. 1, 2019, the Gold Award process has moved to an online platform, GoGold Online. Girls will still work with their Gold Award mentors and receive their approval on their Project Proposals, before they submit to council via GoGold. The deadlines for submitting Gold Award project proposals and final reports are the first and fifteenth of each month. This ensures that your project will be reviewed at that month’s meetings. For more information, visit gssjc.org/ goldaward
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Activities
History Juliette’s Treasure Chests
Does your Girl Scout troop want to put on a vintage fashion show? Or do they want to dress up as Girl Scouts from across the world for World Thinking Day? or maybe you want to dress up as Juliette Low for a school project. Juliette's Treasure Chest is just for you. We have four different uniform kits that can be check out-vintage girls, vintage adults, international adults and an authentic Juliette Low adult uniform. You can also check out hte Daisy activities kit which contains uniforms and activities. Who: ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ Cost: $12 + $25 deposit for Treasure Chests Reserve: Use reservation form, which includes information on the reservation process, at gssjc.org/museum Contact: Julia Shank, jshank@sjgs.org, 713-292-0338
Juliette’s Tea Party
Want a fun way to spend the afternoon? Our volunteers are hosting a tea party - and they invite you to attend! Girls will learn about table etiquette, drink tea, and eat sweets. They will learn the language of the fan from Victorian Era (1800s), make something special to take home and play games. Who: ⓓⓑⓙ Where: Program Place for Girls, Houston When: Sept. 19, Oct. 17, Nov. 21 4:45 – 6 p.m. Oct. 12, 1:30 – 3 p.m. Cost: $17/girl (includes patch and tea cup) Contact: Julia Shank, jshank@sjgs.org, 713-292-0338 Note: This is not a parent and me opportunity, but parents are welcome to wait in another room during the event.
Juliettes Low's Birthday Party
Let's gather in celebration of Juliette Gordon Low's birthday! Brownies and Juniors will make jewelry from her era, sing songs and play ges. No birthday party is complete without cake! Brownies will complete steps for Making Games and Girl Scout Way. Juniors will complete steps for Playing in the Past, Jeweler and Girl Scout Way. Who: Where: When: Contact:
ⓑⓙ
Program Place for Girls, Houston Nov. 2, 9 a.m. – noon; Cost: $16/girl Julia Shank, jshank@sjgs.org 713-292-0338
Playing the Past Junior Workshop
Get ready to relive turn-of-the-century history! What was life like as a schoolgirl then, for Laura Ingalis Wilder or young Juliette Gordon Low? There will be chores, an outhouse, lively dancing and music from the player piano. Role play your character as we finish the program in our 1898 schoolhouse . ⓙ Who: Where: West Bay Common School Children's Museum, League City When: Oct. 5, 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. Price: $25 38 September/October 2019 l The Golden Link
Tour the Goodykoontz Museum Activities of Girl Scout History
The museum is fun and educational for girls and adults. It features timeline panels and interactive displays from the start of the Council in the 1920s until today. NEW: Register online at gssjc.org/activites. To book a tour during the week, please email museumtour@sjgs.org troop number, troop leader name/phone/email, preferred tour date/time, girl program level and number of girls/adults. Where: 3000 Southwest Fwy., Houston If you love Girl Scouts and want to help teach others about our narrative, you can become a Goodykoontz Museum tour guide, or docent! Cadette and up can pair with a mom or leader. Email museumtour@sjgs.org for more information.
Horse Activities GSSJC is gearing up for another excellent year in equitation. We have two locations and many opportunities for girls to experience horse activities, as well as chances for older girls and adults to serve girls while working with horses and having fun at the same time! General information for all horse programs Deadline: Two weeks prior to the event Register: gssjc.org/activities Contact: Monique Stitts, 713-292-0233, mstitts@sjgs.org Safety first! All equine programs are staffed with volunteer adults and older girls who have had council training in safe handling of horses and riders. Our program is based on the skills and safety guidelines of ACA, American Camp Association, and CHA, Certified Horsemanship Association. Adults: Girls must be accompanied by troop leaders (if attending as a troop) or a parent/guardian. Tag-alongs are strongly discouraged as they cannot participate. What to wear: Long pants and socks, shirt with sleeves covering the shoulders. Helmets and boots are available. Girls bringing their own helmets must show a SEI certification label; boots must be smooth-soled with at least a half inch heel. Lug soles are not allowed. Girls should bring a bandana to wear beneath the helmet. Volunteer! Want to help with the program? Every potential adult who wishes to become involved in the equitation program must have a completed volunteer application, have an approved criminal background check on file and be a registered Girl Scout in good standing prior to attending the equitation training for adults. Deadline: This deadline is to ensure that there are enough volunteers to present the program. If you attempt to register after the deadline, your registration will not be accepted. The girls and adults who deliver the program are all dedicated volunteers whose time must be considered.
ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Activities
STARS at Camp Pryor For Levels 1-3
When: Arrive Fri. at 6:30 p.m. and leave Sun. at 12:30 p.m. Bring: Personal equipment and troop camping list Cost: $75/girl, $25/adult Contact: Monique Stitts, 713-292-0233, mstitts@sjgs.org Note: Pool is available for free time if weather allows. Includes patch for that level. Bring SWAPS! Please note that adults must register to attend with a troop or a parent must attend with an individual girl for these programs. Saddlehorns (Level 1) This is the beginner program for girls interested in learning about horseback riding. Girls will learn about grooming, leading, equine nutrition, horse colors, basic horse safety and riding skills at a walk. Girls will have the opportunity to work with horses at four of the six stations. Who:
When:
ⓙⓒⓢⓐ
at least 10 years old Oct. 11 – 13
Rustlers (Level II) Intermediate program that continues the skills started in Saddlehorns. Girls will learn to saddle a horse, how to clean and maintain tack and the basics of horse anatomy. Riding skills and horse safety will be reviewed and performed at a walk and a trot.
ⓙⓒⓢⓐ, at least 10 years old Who: When: Sept. 27 – 29, Oct. 18 – 20 Prerequisite: Must have attended Saddlehorns Wranglers (Level III) This program builds upon the riding skills and knowledge gained in the earlier sessions. Girls will learn to bridle a horse and equine health and conformation. Horse safety will be reviewed and riding skills will be performed at a walk, trot and canter. The Sunday schedule includes a trail ride for all participants. Who: ⓒⓢⓐ,6th grade or higher When: Sept. 20 – 22 Prerequisite: Must have attended Saddlehorns and Rustlers STARS training (Level IV) Girls who are interested in teaching horse skills to younger girls should attend this course. STARS are asked to work at least one fall and one spring weekend session per year. This training weekend will focus on improving horse handling skills, teaching techniques, professionalism and team work. All food is catered for girls and adults.
SPURS at Misty Meadows Ranch
Adult Trainings Adults are needed to make equitation activities a success. Whether or not you have horse experience, we need adults to help the girls develop their leadership and horse skills. Adults wishing to volunteer with the SPURS program can attend one of these trainings. When: Where: Time: Cost: Bring:
Nov. 8 – 10 Misty Meadows Ranch, Conroe Friday 8 p.m. – Sunday 2 p.m. $30 Min/Max: 1/10 Bedding, meals (refrigerators and microwaves available)
SPURS Trainings
SPURS (Super People Using Riding Skills) training is offered to Cadettes through Ambassadors who are interested in learning more about horses and helping with the equitation program at Misty Meadows Ranch. Attending one weekend training is required for participation in the SPURS program. Core Program Aide training will be included. Since the training is an all weekend workshop, all trainees should bring clothing, bedding and food clearly labeled with the attendee’s name. Refrigerator and microwave will be available. Registration is on an individual basis; use a separate registration form for each girl registering for the training.
ⓒⓢⓐ Who: Where: Misty Meadows Ranch, Conroe When: November 8 – 10, 8 p.m. Friday – 2 p.m. Sunday Cost: $50/person (includes Level 1 scarf and yearly Special Interest Group fee) Min./Max.: 12/35 Horse Programs at Camp Misty Meadows
Horseback Riding Badge Workshops Juniors (troops or individuals) who wish to earn the Horseback Riding badge may attend a badge workshop on select Saturdays. Girls will learn the basics about taking care of and riding horses along with understanding horse behavior. Who: ⓙ and their chaperone Where: Misty Meadows Ranch, Conroe When: Oct. 5, Nov. 23, Dec. 14 Cost: $30/participant (includes badge) Min./Max.: 12/30 girls Bring: Sack lunch
Who: ⓒⓢⓐ, 13 years old or 7th grade or higher When: Sept. 13 – 15 Cost: $65/girl, $20/adult: includes program aide patch Prerequisite: Must have completed Saddlehorns, Rustlers and Wranglers ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
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Activities
Sailing Introduction to Sailing
Are you curious about sailing? Do you want to feel the wind on your face and hear the water splashing around you? You will work alongside Mariners (sailing Special Interest Group) as they ready the boats to sail, navigate the open seas and practice boat safety along with maintenance. Sign up to be a “sailor” for the weekend. You must attend the entire weekend. Intro to Sailing is a general sailing activity and will not be considered a prerequisite to the Mariner program. Who: Girls 11 and older, must pass as a Red Cross and Swim Level 4 swimmer and Safe Boating Card for sailing. Copies of the card should be turned in with registration to sailing.coordinator@ gmail.com Girls without cards will not be allowed to remain on camp. When: Sept. 6 –8, Oct. 4 – 6 Where: Casa Mare, Seabrook Cost: $60 Note: Attention parents: four to eight dorm chaperones are needed to hold event. Please contact sailing. coordinator@gmail.com
Mariner and Instruction Weekends:
Some courses are over two weekends and you must attend both. Four to eight volunteers are needed to hold event. Mariner weekends are one. Basic Sailing: Want to learn how to sail the open seas? Are you interested in being a Mariner? This is the activity for you! Learn how to rig and sail a Sunfish Sailboat. You will also learn boat safety, injury prevention, knot tying and more. Must be a Level 4 American Red Cross swimmer and able to lift at least 30 pounds without assistance. Adults must prove to be a proficient swimmer and are not required to have a swim card. This is a physically and mentally demanding activity, be prepared to be challenged and yet have fun. Basic Sailing is a two-weekend course and you must attend both weekends. When: Sept. 27 – 29 and Oct. 11 – 13, both required Cost: $120 Where: Casa Mare, Seabrook
Mariner and Mariner Weekends
If you have completed Basic Sailing and now you want more open seas and high sails with like-minded girls, then the Mariners Special Interest Group is for you! What is the benefit of being a Mariner? You will learn leadership through instructing others, gain the experience to advance your sailing skills, and acquire service hours that can go towards your school and troop requirements. It is also a wonderful opportunity to meet new friends and tell them all about how awesome it is to go sailing! Register as a Mariner today! Mariner Special Interst Group Fee: $10 Where: Casa Mare, Seabrook Prerequisite: Basic Sailing Certification
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Mariner Weekends
You have completed Basic Sailing, registered as a Mariner and now you are officially a Mariner! Part of being in this awesome special interest group is you will have the opportunity to hang out with other girls on weekends just for Mariners! You will have the chance to practice your skills in a relaxed and fun setting. These weekends are typically themed adding to the fun! Mariners spend the weekend at Casa Mare where they eat, sleep and sail! Must already be registered as a Mariner to attend and have successfully completed Basic Sailing. Four to eight dorm chaperones are also required for these weekends. Please reach out to sailing. coordinator@gmail.com for details. When: Cost: Where:
September 20 – 22 Check in is Friday at 7 p.m. Check out Sunday at 2 p.m. $50 (meals included) Casa Mare, Seabrook
Advanced Sailing Certifications
Now that you are a Mariner, advance your skills more with these awesome opportunities in sailing. The more sailing you obtain, the higher the chances you can be a sail aide and possibly an instructor one day. Sunfish Mate: This is a two-weekend course and the first step into advancing your sailing skills. Requirements are you must be a Mariner and have additional practice to solidify your skills. Girls must have a minimum of six sailing sessions equivalent to 20 hours of tiller time between Basic Sailing and Sunfish Mate. Hours will be verified. For additional questions please contact instructor.coordinator@gmail.com. When: Sept. 12 – 15; Sept. 27 – 29 Where: Casa Mare, Seabrook Cost: $120 Prerequisite: Basic Sailing, a registered mariner, 20 hours tiller time, six sailing weekends Sloop Skipper, Sunfish Skipper, Sloop Captain and Big Boat classes are one weekend courses that require additional qualifications. Please email instructor.coordinator@gmail.com to see if you meet the requirements. Who: When: Bring:
Girls who are 11 and older, have completed Basic Sailing, a registered Mariner, have completed the allotted requirements needed for the level Sloop Skipper & Sloop Captain- Sept. 13 – 15, Sunfish Skipper-Sept. 27 – 29 You will receive an email with a packing list.
Save the Date! GEMS@HMNS
The Houston Museum of Natural Science invites you to attend the annual Girls Exploring Math and Science (GEMS) event. The Museum will be filled with hands-on science and math for everyone to experience. Local professionals will be at the Museum to answer questions about their careers in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math. There is also an overnight option and a chance to present as part of the Student STEM Ambassadors. Who: Where: When:
ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ
Houston Museum of Natural Science Feb. 15, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Activities
Sports
Rice Volleyball Clinic
Green Starlettes Drill Team
If you love to dance, this team is for you! The Green Starlettes do not require previous dance experience and do not have tryouts. All girls, grades 4-12, who are interested can be a part of the team. The Green Starlettes creates a non-competitive atmosphere for the girls to practice dance techniques, team spirit and valuable leadership skills. We have 11 divisions to choose from, so find one near you! Teams meet once a week to practice for parades and events. Who: Cost: Contact:
ⓙⓒⓢⓐ
$38/girl; registration closes Sept. 30 Heather Vandivort, hvandivort@sjgs.org, 713-292-0269 or Theresa Alexander, green_starlettes@yahoo.com
Rifle Program General information for all three activities listed below ⓒⓢⓐ must be 12-years-old Who: Where: Camp Robinwood, Willis When: Sept. 14, Oct. 12, Nov. 9, Dec. 14, Jan. 11, Feb. 8, March. 14, April 17, May 9, Jun. 13, Jul. 11, Aug. 8 Cost: $10/session Deadline: Two weeks prior to event Contact: Dejah Covick, 713-292-0312, dcovick@sjgs.org
Come cheer on the Rice Owls Volleyball team and take part in a pre-game skills camp while competing in a friendly environment. Bring your water bottle and competitive spirit as you learn serving, hitting, setting, digging and passing techniques. This clinic includes a ticket to the game. Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
ⓑⓙⓒ
Rice University- Tudor Fieldhouse Sept. 21, 10 a.m. – noon $14 Julia Shank, Jshank@sjgs.org 713-292-0338
Rice Volleyball Game
Girl Scouts family and friend are invited to come cheer on the Rice Owls Volleyball team as they take on TCU. Before the game you will be able to high-five the team in the Fan Tunnel! Who: Where: When: Cost: Contact:
ⓑⓙⓒ
Rice University- Tudor Fieldhouse Sept. 21, 2 – 4 p.m. $8 Julia Shank, Jshank@sjgs.org 713-292-0338
Step 1: 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:
Min./Max: 4/12
noon – 1:30 p.m.
Step 2: Rifle Marksmanship
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:
Min./Max: 4/12
1:30 – 3 p.m.
Step 3: G.R.I.T.: Girls, Rifles, Instruction and Training Rifle Special Interest Group
If after attending any Rifle Marksmanship session you decide you would like more from your rifle program experience, then the Rifle Program Special 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. Girls must register and pay the special interest group annual dues as well as the monthly session registration for G.R.I.T. Registration for G.R.I.T. available in MyGS Activities. Time:
9 – 11:30 a.m.
Min./Max: 5/18
U of H Volleyball game
Come join the University of Houston Cougars Volleyball team as they take on the University of Connecticut Huskies. Troop will have recognition on the video board and be able to high five the players as the enter the court. Who: When: Where: Cost:
ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ Nov. 10, 1 – 3 p.m. Fertitta Center $8
U of H: Cadette Good Sportsmanship Badge Workshop Following the volleyball game, Cadettes will master good sportsmanship! Hear from the University of Houston staff and Student Athletes on what it means to be a team player. This Badge workshop also includes a ticket to the game. Who: When: Where: Cost:
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November 10, 3 – 4 p.m. Fertitta Center $12 September/October2019 l The Golden Link
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Activities
STEM Contact: Kelli Cavenah, kcavenah@sjgs.org, 713-292-0271
Roller Coaster Badge Workshop
Put engineering in motion with the Roller Coaster Design Challenge badge. In this workshop, Daisies dive 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! Girls will be completing this badge; badge is provided to attendees. Who: ⓓ When: Oct. 26, 9 – 11 a.m. Where: Idea Lab - Bellaire Cost: $23
Think Like an Engineer for Daisies Badge Workshop
Learn what engineers are and what they do. Girls get the chance to build a fairy house, puff mobile and use critical thinking to span a "canyon." Girls will complete all Journey requirements except the Take Action project and will receive the Think Like an Engineer badge. Who: ⓓ When: Nov. 23, 9 – 11 a.m. Where: Idea Lab – Spring Branch Cost: $23
Space Science Explorer Badge Workshop
Get ready to blast off on an adventure! Daisies will explore the sun, observe the moon, and meet the stars. Participants can expect hands-on activities and they will receive the badge at the end of the workshop. Who: ⓓ When: Dec. 14, 9 – 11 a.m. Where: Idea Lab - Pearland Cost: $23
Fling Flyer Badge 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. Badge is provided to attendees.
Cybersecurity Basics for Brownies
We use computers every and they are also a part of our lives in many other ways that aren’t as easy to see - computers power streetlights, air conditioners, planes, and much more. Cybersecurity is the way we protect all those computers—and ourselves. Through Cybersecurity Day for Brownies, you’ll know the basics of cybersecurity, what privacy means, and how to protect yourself when you’re on a computer. Who: ⓑ When: Oct. 12, 9 – 11 a.m. Where: Idea Lab – Spring Branch Cost: $23
Leap Bot Badge Workshop
Discover engineering, gravity and force by building and testing a leap bot. Brownies will learn to think critically about how designs are put together and how they can be improved. Brownies will earn their Fling Flyer Design Challenge badge through this workshop. Badge is provided to attendees. Who: ⓑ When: Nov. 9, 9 – 11 a.m. Where: Idea Lab – Energy Corridor Cost: $23
Home Scientist Badge 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! Badge is provided to attendees. Who: ⓑ When: Nov. 10, 9 – 11 a.m. Where: Idea Lab – Pearland Cost: $23
Inventor Badge Workshop
Do you ever wonder what it takes to come up with a new kind of phone or a new way to power a lightbulb? This workshop will help you discover how inventors make new things! The best part will be that you get to become an inventor yourself while you discover creative ways to think and experiment. Badge is provided to attendees. Who: When: Where: Cost:
ⓑ
Dec. 14, 9 – 11 a.m. Idea Lab – Spring Branch $23
Who: ⓑ When: Sept. 22, 9 – 11 a.m. Where: Idea Lab - Bellaire Cost: $23
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Activities
Space Science Overnight for Brownies and Juniors
Get ready to blast off on an adventure! This overnight is exclusively for Brownie and Junior Girl Scouts and their chaperones. During the event, girls will see the sky in a new way – like a space scientist does! They will investigate the moon, explore the solar system, discover how they can look at space and learn more about stars. Girls will receive their Space Science badge at the end of the workshop. Who: When: Where: Cost:
ⓑⓙ, plus Girl Scout ratio of adults Jan. 11 – 12 Space Center Houston $65/girl, $55/adult
Think Like a Programmer Journey for Juniors
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 and receive the Think Like a Programmer Award. Who: ⓙ When: Sept. 21, 9 a.m. – noon Where: Idea Lab – Energy Corridor Cost: $23
Detective Badge Workshop
Utilize your detective skills on this sleuthing adventure! Girls will discover the power of observation, code communications, fingerprinting, and more! Stories, movies and television are full of amazing detectives solving mysteries. Their jobs are important, exciting and take serious skills - skills you can try at this workshop. Badge is provided. Who: ⓙ When: Sept. 14, 9 a.m. – noon Where: Idea Lab – Spring Branch Cost: $23
Crane Design Badge 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. Badge is provided to attendees. Who: ⓙ When: Oct. 5, 9 a.m. – noon Where: Idea Lab – Bellaire Cost: $23
Entertainment Technology Badge Workshop
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. All badge steps are completed, badge is provided to attendees. Who: When: Where: Cost:
ⓙ
Oct .5 or Dec. 14, noon – 2:15 p.m. Children’s Museum of Houston $15
Balloon Car Badge 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 interacts 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. Badge is provided to attendees. Who: When: Where: Cost:
ⓙ
Sept. 21, 9 a.m. – noon Idea Lab – Energy Corridor $23
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. All badge steps are completed, badge is provided to attendees. Who: ⓙ When: Oct. 26, noon – 2:15 p.m. Where: Children’s Museum Houston Cost: $20
Think Like an Engineer for Juniors Camp Weekend
Learn to think like an engineer during this weekend at camp! Join other Juniors and learn how to utilize your construction skills as you work as a team to solve engineering challenges like building shelter and structures to withstand the elements. Who: Where: When: Cost:
ⓙ plus Girl Scout ratio of adults Camp Agnes Arnold, Conroe Nov. 15 – 16 $45/girl; $15/adult September/October2019 l The Golden Link
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Activities
Paddle Boat Badge Workshop
Engineer your way through designing, building and testing a boat that floats in this workshop. You will also get a chance to explore a way to make your boat move through the water and assess how well it works. Badge is provided to attendees. Who: ⓙ When: Oct. 5, 9 a.m. – noon Where: Idea Lab – Bellaire Cost: $23
NASA on Campus: Space Science on ISS
Welcome aboard to the International Space Station (ISS)! Girls will have the chance to explore what life is like for an astronaut. The Space Science badge will be earned by exploring stars, light, and the universe and how they relate to the tools used and research conducted onboard ISS. At this hands-on workshop, outer space is brought to you! Badge is provided. Who: ⓒⓢⓐ Where: Program Place for Girls, Houston When: Nov. 23; 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Cost: $20
Cybersecurity Basics for Juniors Badge Workshop
Welcome to the world of cybersecurity at this fun day taught by industry professionals! To earn the Cybersecurity Basics badge, Juniors explore how computers send and receive information when sending messages by making binary bracelets. Then, they will discover how sending messages may be open to attack or danger, what protocols are, how to create them and what malware is - all through fun and innovative hands-on methods. Badge is provided. Who: ⓙ When: Dec. 15, 9 a.m. – noon Where: Idea Lab – Energy Corridor Cost: $23
Girl Scout STEM Day at Marathon
Marathon Petroleum STEM Day is a fun, hands-on event that shows how STEM is an important part of the real world. Learn from women who perform a variety of technical jobs that have an emphasis on STEM in a local refinery. Girls will participate in a wide range of activities including: pulling operator samples, performing lab experiments and running instrument and electrical checks in addition to other engineering activities. Who: When: Where: Cost: Contact:
ⓒⓢ
September 28, 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Marathon Petroleum, Texas City $10/girl, free for adults Lola Akapo, 713-292-0353, lakapo@sjgs.org
Room Makeover Workshop
Forensics Weekend
Girls will discover forensic techniques such as DNA analysis, suspect identification, fingerprint analysis and more! Teams of Cadettes will scope out clues to solve the mystery during a weekend at camp. Who: ⓒ Where: Casa Mare, Seabrook When: Dec. 6 – 8 Cost: $45/girl; $15/dorm chaperone Note: Registration will be available Oct. 1
Designing Robots for Cadettes
Robots can do so much! They can aid in anything from helping you with your chores to exploring the ocean or Mars. Every day, they are used for amazing things and in these workshops, you will find out how. Robots are built and programmed in different ways to meet a goal. Explore this topic in a workshop held in the Children’s Museum Maker Annex. Who: ⓒ When: Oct. 19, noon – 2:15 p.m. Where: Children’s Museum Houston Cost: $15
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: ⓢ Where: Children’s Museum Houston When: Sept. 14, noon – 2:15 p.m. Cost: $15
Designing Robots for Seniors
Design a robot and build a prototype that you will test. Researchers often build robot prototypes to test robots that can go where humans can't, or from materials that are cheap and easy to find to make them more accessible for practical applications. At this workshop, you will come up with ideas for a new kind of robot that helps or replaces people who work in difficult or dangerous situations, evaluate the design, and make improvements. A badge is included. Who: ⓢ Where: Children’s Museum Houston When: Nov. 2, noon – 2:15 p.m. Cost: $15
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Activities
Robotics Special Interest Group
Work with other girls your age to learn and expand your knowledge of how robots are built and how they work. This is a year-round, non-competitive opportunity where girls get the chance to build robots, discover how to code them, and have leadership opportunities, such as facilitating robotics badge classes to their peers. Girls will work with differing equipment based on their grade; younger girls explore WeDo Lego kits and older girls investigate Mindstorms Lego kits.
ⓓⓑⓙⓒ Who: Where/When: Program Place for Girls, monthly meetings Cost: $20 Contact: Kelli Cavenah, kcavenah@sjgs.org, 713-292-0271 Note: Membership in the Special Interest Group is independent from the competition teams. Girls can do both but are highly encouraged to look at their commitments and availability before signing up for this group and a competition team. Astronomy Special Interest Group This group is for girls who want to have fun, learn and teach! Girls plan their activities for the year and organize events that other Girl Scouts attend. The group also takes trips to discover the world around them – and beyond! This great group helps girls develop leadership skills and learn about themselves while becoming more acquainted with science and the field of astronomy.
Who: ⓙⓒⓢⓐ5th grade and up Where: Program Place for Girls, Houston When: One Sunday afternoon each month Cost: $20 Contact: Kelli Cavenah, kcavenah@sjgs.org, 713-292-0271
Coming Soon – Technology-Based Workshops!
Coming in 2020, GSSJC will be expanding our workshops that focus on technology, coinciding with the new badges released in July 2019. Watch The Golden Link and the website for more information and opportunities! The 46 technology-based badges now available on VTK are: Cybersecurity Basics – all levels Cybersecurity Investigator – all levels Cybersecurity Safeguards – all levels Digital Game Design – all levels Coding Basics – all levels App Development – all levels Think Like a Programmer Journey – all levels Computer Expert – Brownies Digital Photographer – Juniors Digital Movie Maker – Cadettes Website Design – Seniors Contact: Kelli Cavenah, kcavenah@sjgs.org, 713-292-0271 ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniors ⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Swimming Swim Level Card and Safe Boat Card Testing
Here is an opportunity to earn your swim level and Safe Boating card! This test is useful for participating in water activities such as sailing, canoeing, and other adventures your troops would like to participate in that are water related! Not sure what activities need a swim level card? Please review Safety Activity Checkpoints. We will offer American Red Cross Level 3 and Level 4 test or equivalent. Please check online for more opportunities around Houston area.
ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ Who: When: Sept. 7, noon – 1 p.m. at Camp Agnes Arnold Oct. 26, noon – 1 p.m. at Casa Mare Cost: $20 Bring: Bring a swim suit and a towel. Googles are suggested but not required. Contact: Stephanie Moore, smoore@sjgs.org 713-292-0299. It is suggested that you do not register for a swim test that is within two weeks of your event. Please allow ample time between your event and your swim test. Due to weather, test could be cancelled and opportunities for council provided test are limited. Council does not keep copies of Safe Boating Card. Replacement cards will be a $1 charge at the Program Place. You will be required to verify the date and time that you took the test. If you were given a Red Cross swim test, cards will be emailed to the address of the person who registered for the test. Please allow at least 48 hours for the cards to be sent. Approved vendors will provide an equivalent to the American Red Cross swim test. A separate verification will be provided after the test has been administered. For more information contact Stephanie Moore, smoore@sjgs.org.
Wanted: Lifeguards
Are you an American Red Cross certified lifeguard age 18 or older? Would you like to earn extra money on the weekends? You pick when and where! Contact Stephanie Moore for more
Travel Council Trip Interest Meetings
Interested in traveling with other Girl Scouts from the San Jacinto Council? Well, here is your chance! Join us as we talk about our three 2020 summer travel opportunities and our international trip to Costa Rica! Stop by and get some information on your next big adventure. 2020 Trips are Savannah G,A, Washington D.C. and Austin! 2021 International trip to Costa Rica! When: Where: Who: Cost: Contact:
Sept. 14, 2 – 3:30 p.m,.Oct. 8, 6 – 7:30 p.m, or Oct. 20, 2 – 3:30 p.m Girl Scout Center, Houston ⓙⓒⓢⓐ, adults Free, but must register at gssjc.org/activities Stephanie Moore, smoore@sjgs.org
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Adult Trainings
Adventure awaits you at the 2019 Fall Volunteer Conference! Nov. 8 - 10 Camp Agnes Arnold, Conroe
Every troop designs their own Girl Scout Adventure. Each Girl Scout Volunteer helps the girls accomplish their visions. Whether you are a new or experienced volunteer, you’re sure to find new and creative ways to enhance your skills. Explore areas of troop programming, behavior management, the outdoors, technology, STEM, and Girl Scout fundamentals. Continue to deliver wow-worthy experiences to girls by introducing them to new adventures at our Girl Scout camps and encouraging them to explore every dream through enriching activities. Be sure to sign up for one of the shuttled camp tours if you want to see more of Camp Agnes Arnold and Misty Meadows Ranch. Share stories, learn from other troop leaders and create lasting connections. If you come alone, plan to make some new friends! Check In and Check Out: Friday Check in: 4 – 10 p.m. (Gates lock at 10 p.m.) Saturday Check in: 8 a.m. (camp gates open at 8 a.m.) - Saturday breakfast for Friday night guests only 7 – 7:45 a.m. Saturday Check out: 6 p.m. (after workshops) or 9 p.m. (after campfire) Sunday Check out: 11:30 a.m. Deadline: Oct. 27 Cost: $40 for completed registrations received before Aug. 31, $50 beginning Sept. 1. Cost includes Friday and Saturday night accommodations, Friday dessert, Saturday breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and Sunday breakfast. Conference T-shirt: You may also order your conference T-shirt (at an additional cost) along with your completed registration. The last day to order T-shirts is Oct. 20. Contact: Gena Drawhorn, gdrawhorn@sjgs.org Note: Please, no children at this event as childcare is not offered. Also, camping certification is not required to attend. Course designations: ⓓ-Daisy ⓑ-Brownie ⓙ-Juniorsⓒ-Cadettes ⓢ-Seniors ⓐ-Ambassadors
Friday, November 8
When you arrive take this time to settle into your tent/cabin. Bring a sack dinner (sodas will be available for purchase) or enjoy dinner in Conroe with your friends. Then join us in the lodge starting at 7 p.m. for a fun night of activities, dessert and more. Indicate your plans to spend Friday night at camp by selecting this course offering. Check in will be 4 – 10 p.m. where you will get kaper and bed assignments. Then from 7 – 10 p.m. join in on the fun night of activities, featuring stations of fun and learning. 7 p.m. Lighted Labyrinth: Take the time out and find your inner strength through the Lighted Labyrinth. Labyrinths are used world-wide to quiet the mind, recover a balance in life and encourage meditation, insight, self-reflection, stress reduction and to discover innovation and celebration. The serenity of this nature-infused activity is the perfect close to the day.
Saturday, November 9
SESSION 1 – 9 – 10:30 a.m. SESSION 2 – 10:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. GENERAL SESSION - 12:30 – 2:30 p.m. Explore the Possibilities During our extended lunch time, plan to visit a wide variety of vendors from around our council. Representatives from nature centers, parks and outdoor-related groups will showcase the different resources and programs they have available. Explore fun new ways to bring outdoor programing to your Girl Scouts. SESSION 3 – 2:45. – 4:15 p.m. SESSION 4 – 4:30 – 6 p.m.
8:30 p.m. Introduction to Guitar: Do you long to sing around the campfire with other Girl Scouts? Do you have the willingness to sing with an instrument in front of a small group? If you do, then we have an opportunity for you. No guitar or previous musical experience is required. Feel free to bring your own instrument or you can borrow one for this session.
Saturday Evening, November 9, 6:15 - 10 p.m. After a fulfilling day of training, enjoy a delicious dinner and take your pick from a variety of options to complete the day. You can choose to: reflect at the labyrinth, explore with friends on a hike, enjoy the campfire, learn songs or play games. Indicate your plans to spend Saturday night at camp by selecting this course offering. Bring: camping gear, toiletries, clothes and a mug for drinks.
9 p.m. Adventure at Night: You never know what amazing things you’ll discover when exploring camp at night! Experience the beauty of nature by relying on your senses and a flashlight. This adventure is sure to give you great ideas on all the fun your girls can have exploring camp in the dark. Flashlights and closed-toe shoes are a MUST!
Sunday, November 10, 10 – 11:30 a.m. It’s not over! After a Scouts Own and breakfast, end the weekend with Mindfulness activities. Rotate through three sessions designed to deliberately focus on the here-and-now: yoga (bring a beach towel), create your own finger labyrinth and carve your own medicine feather (knives will be provided).
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Class Descriptions
Advanced Outdoors Is your troop ready to go beyond platform tents and one-pot meals? Explore some advanced camping skills designed to reflect the requirements of Older Girl Outdoor badges. ⓒⓢⓐ Camp Shuttle Tour Camp life is the best life, but do you know what is available for your use at our camps? Join in on the fun of our Shuttled Camp Tour of Camp Agnes Arnold and Misty Meadows Ranch. ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ Creating Inspirational Ceremonies Create memorable moments with ceremonies. A variety of ceremonies will be explored. Participants will plan and execute this weekend's ceremonies. ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ Ecology Badges for Older Girls Join us for a hands-on exploration of the new ecology badges, including where to find the requirements. ⓒⓢⓐ Ecology Badges for Younger Girls Join us for a hands-on exploration of the new ecology badges, including where to find the requirements. ⓓⓑⓙ Engineering for Older Girls Join us for a hands-on exploration of the engineering badges, including where to find the requirements. ⓒⓢⓐ Engineering for Younger Girls Join us for a hands-on exploration of the engineering badges, including where to find the requirements. ⓓⓑⓙ Fairy Garden Fun Fairy houses make such a cute decoration for your garden. Learn how to use natural and recycled materials to make a fairy house that you can share with your girls. ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ Games The games that millions of kids played back in "the good old days" are quickly becoming a forgotten way of life, swallowed up by video games and computers. This course focuses on ways for the girls to entertain themselves without screens. Some games may be new to you and some may bring back memories. ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ Girl Led Camp Cooking Are you tired of hot dogs at your camp-outs? Need some direction for a varied menu when you go camping? This course will focus on progression in cooking as well as getting your girls involved in the menu planning and preparation of camp meals. ⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ Group Behavior Management Managing groups of any age can be a challenge. With the various issues in our society, understanding youth behavior can be more difficult. Learn behavior management techniques and develop strategies to better manage the behavior of girls in your troop. This class is taught by staff members of DePelchin Children’s Center. Note: This class is two hours. ⓙⓒⓢⓐ How to Make a Box Oven With your own supplies, make a box oven for cooking. Each participant needs to bring a cardboard box with top and bottom flaps still on, a large roll of aluminum foil, a rack (cooling rack), that will fit in your box. Heavy cardboard boxes from liquor stores are great for box ovens. ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ
Human Trafficking Awareness Raising awareness about human trafficking in the US and strategies to protect others. ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ Intermediate Guitar In this class you will learn to play a song and perform with the group at Saturday night’s campfire program. Reading music is not required and you will learn how to utilize chord charts to learn chord progressions to play songs. Feel free to bring your own instrument or you can borrow one for this session. ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ Journey in a Day – Younger Girls Would you like to learn how to complete a Journey in a day with your Daisies, Brownies or Juniors? This class will assist your efforts to complete a Journey in a day or sleepover. We will cover how you can personalize your Journey based on what products and resources you have on hand or that you can find in your area as well as your girls’ core interests, logistics, etc. ⓓⓑⓙ Journey in a Weekend – Older Girls Learn how to complete a Journey in a weekend with your older girls. This class will give you tools to teach your girls to use examples of weekend schedules and adapted curriculum to plan their weekend of Journey fun. ⓒⓢⓐ Nature Hikes Ever wonder what you could do with girls on a hike to make it special? This workshop will give you hiking themes, songs to sing and games to play while you hike. You’ll learn to recognize trees and plants along the way. ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ Orienteering Games Where in the world are we? Use a compass and nature's clues to find out. ⓙⓒⓢⓐ Outdoor Crafts Take the creativity outside with these fun outdoor arts and crafts ideas. ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ Robotics for Older Girls Join us for a hands-on exploration of the new robotics badges, including where to find the requirements. ⓒⓢⓐ Robotics for Younger Girls Join us for a hands-on exploration of the new robotics badges, including where to find the requirements. ⓓⓑⓙ Recognizing Abuse & Trauma, and How to Respond Understand the effect trauma has on the human brain and learn how to respond with care to children in healing ways. Learn a caregiver model, taught by a trained professional, that gives concrete skills to respond to traumatized children in ways that build connection and relationship. ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ Sing Among the Pines Like to sing? Want to learn some new songs or remember some old ones? ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ So, What’s Going On…? Updates on various on-going council project such as the latest badges, new VTK, website updates, and the status of 10-year Property Strategy. ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ Space Science and Cybersecurity for Older Girls Join us for a hands-on exploration of the new space science and cybersecurity badges, including where to find the requirements. ⓒⓢⓐ September/October2019 l The Golden Link
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Columns Space Science and Cybersecurity for Younger Girls Join us for a hands-on exploration of the new space science and cybersecurity badges, including where to find the requirements. ⓓⓑⓙ
Things to do on the Waterfront There are many exciting things to do on the waterfront. Get a taste of what it is like to take your troop canoeing and explore other available water activities, such as kayaks and corcls. These activities are great for team-building and an enjoyable and relaxing way to experience the outdoors.Let your imagination go wild as you canoe around Snake Island on Shadow Lake, learn about prerequisites, waterfront safety, basic canoe strokes, gear, preparing for canoing and canoeing jargon. In addition, learn how a girl may become a canoe aide or you a canoe instructor. (Types of shoes to bring: boat shoes, closed- toed, and nonslip hiking/sport sandals with heel strap, or water socks or shoes - no flip-flops or plastic shoes) ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ
STEM Crafts for Younger Girls Crafting with a STEM focus. Gain some hands-on experience creating exciting projects that will spark girls' interest and give you some ideas for completing new badge steps. ⓓⓑⓙ Suicide Prevention According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, suicide is the 10th leading cause in the United States and attempted at twice the rate in girls than boys. Suicide is a serious issue for every demographic in this country and this course, taught by trained professionals, offers a suicide prevention certification by helping you to learn the tactics of question, persuade and refer. ⓙⓒⓢⓐ
Tie It All Up Does teaching knots to girls intimidate you? Use games, stories and relays to make knots fun for girls and adults. ⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ Troop T-Shirts & IDs Girls love wearing troop T-shirts while at camp, selling cookies and going on field trips. Discover some easy techniques to have your troop looking fabulous and unified. Learn what a troop ID is and see some great samples of troop banners. Create a T-shirt of your very own. You will need to bring a plain, pre-washed, white T-shirt to complete this class.ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ
Taste of Archery Leaders! Ever wonder why your girls cannot hit the bulls-eye? It’s a lot harder than you think! Take part in the same learning opportunity your troop has at “Bull’s Eye for Girls”. Learn what archery opportunities are available to your troop; Bull’s Eye, JOAD, Community and troop. Participants will learn how to: hold a bow, nock an arrow properly, use safety equipment properly, fire an arrow and learn more about the GSSJC Archery program. ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ
Volunteer Roundtable Is your favorite part of a training, meeting other volunteers and learning about all the interesting things they've been up to? Well Teaching Knife Skills come to this session with questions or ideas to share with your Learn basics of Create knife skills at camp of andyour how very to progress volunteers. troopthe banners. a T-shirt own. girls You will needfellow to bring a plain,ⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ pre-washed, white T-shirt to from safely handling a knife uses. complete this class. ⓓ to ⓑcreative ⓙⓒⓢ ⓐⓓⓑⓙⓒⓢⓐ
Volunteer Roundtable Is your favorite part of a training, meeting other volunteers and learning about all the interesting things they've been up to? Well come to this session with questions or ideas to share with your fellow volunteers. ⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ
Schedule by session
Session Ecology Creating Camp 1 Badges for Inspirational Shuttle 9 ‐10:30 Younger Tour ⓓ ⓑ Ceremoniesⓓ (Choose ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ Girls ⓓ ⓑ ⓙ One) Session 2 10:45 ‐ 12:15 (Choose One)
Camp Shuttle Tourⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ
Session 3 2:45 ‐ Advanced Outdoors 4:15 ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ (Choose One) Session How to 4 Make a 4:30 ‐ 6 Box Oven (Choose ⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢⓐ One)
Fairy Garden Funⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢⓐ
Ecology Badges for Older Girls ⓒ ⓢⓐ
Engineering for Older Girls ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ
Engineering for Younger Girls ⓓ ⓑ ⓙ
Nature Hikesⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢⓐ
Girl Led Camp Cooking ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢⓐ
Gamesⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢⓐ
Robotics for Older Girls ⓒ ⓢ
Sing Among the Pinesⓓ
ⓐ
ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ
Group Behavior Management in Youth/Children ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ
STEM Crafts for Younger Girls ⓓ ⓑ ⓙ
Taste of Archery ⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢⓐ
So, Journey in a What's Orienteering Day ‐ Going Games ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ Younger On…?ⓓ ⓐ Girls ⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ
Tie It All Up ⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ
Suicide Prevention
Taste of Archeryⓓ ⓑ
ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ
ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ
ⓐ
Girl Led Camp Cooking ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢⓐ
Human Trafficking Awareness ⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ
Recognizing Abuse & Trauma and How to Respondⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ
Space Science Things to and Taste of Do on the Cyber Archeryⓓ ⓑ Waterfront Security ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ ⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ for Older ⓐ Girls ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ
Intermediate Guitarⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ
Journey in a Weekend ‐ Older Girls ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ
. 48 September/October 2019 l The Golden Link
Outdoor Craftsⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢⓐ
Robotics for Younger Girls ⓓ ⓑⓙ
Space Science and Cyber Security for Younger Girls ⓓ ⓑ ⓙ
Teaching Knife Skillsⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ
Troop T‐ Shirts & IDsⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ
Volunteer Roundtable ⓓ ⓑ ⓙ ⓒ ⓢ ⓐ
Columns
Camp Certification Training Any questions regarding Camp Certification registrations may be directed to Betty Morgan, Training Registrar, at bmorgan@sjgs.org or 713-292-0238. Date Day Sept. 17 Tues. or Sept. 19 Thurs. Sept. 28 & 29 Sat./Sun
Course Name Camp Cert In Town Ex Exp(AC 9/28&29) Camp Cert In Town (AC 9/28&29) Camp Cert At Camp Ex Exp (IT 9/17)
Location GSC CYP* New location ATC
Time Cost 7 – 10 p.m. $25 7 – 10 p.m. $25 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. none
or Sept. 26 Thurs. Oct. 1 Tues. Oct. 12 Sat.
Camp Cert In Town (AC 10/12) Camp Cert In Town (AC 10/12) Camp Cert At Camp (IT 9/26&10/1)
GSC WAM WAM
7 – 10 p.m. $25 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. $25 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. none
GSC ATC
Oct. 21 Nov. 2
Mon. Sat.
Camp Cert In Town (AC 11/2) Camp Cert At Camp (IT 10/21)
Nov. 4 or Nov. 5 Nov. 16
Mon. Tues. Sat.
Camp Cert In Town (AC 11/16) Camp Cert In Town (AC 11/16) Camp Cert At Camp (IT 11/4, 11/5)
BRC GSC WAM
Nov. 19 Dec. 7
Tues. Sat.
Camp Cert In Town (AC 12/7) Camp Cert At Camp (IT 11/19)
GSC ATC
Camp Cert In Town (AC 1/18) Camp Cert In Town (AC 1/18) Camp Cert At Camp (IT 1/6&7)
GSC CYP ATC
or
or
Jan. 6 Jan. 7 Jan. 18
Mon. Tues. Sat.
GSC ATC
Feb. 1 Feb. 4 Feb. 15
Sat. Tues. Sat.
Camp Cert In Town (AC 2/15) Camp Cert In Town (AC 2/15) Camp Cert At Camp (IT 2/4)
GSC UWFtB WAM
Feb. 17 Feb. 19 Feb. 29
Mon. Wed. Sat.
Camp Cert In Town (AC 2/29) Camp Cert In Town (AC 2/29) Camp Cert At Camp (IT 2/17)
Feb. 24 March 7
Mon. Sat.
Camp Cert In Town (AC 3/7) Camp Cert At Camp (IT 2/25)
Katy GSC ATC
Online! WP
$25 none
7 – 10 p.m. 7v10 p.m. 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.
$25 $25 None
7 – 10 p.m. $25 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. none
7 – 10 p.m. 7 – 10 p.m. 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Jan. 13 Mon. Camp Cert In Town Ex Exp (AC 1/25&26) Jan. 25&26 Sat./Sun. Camp Cert ExE At Camp (IT 1/13)
7 – 10 p.m. 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
$25 $25 none
7 – 10 p.m. $25 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. none
1 – 4 p.m. 7 – 10 p.m. 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.
7 – 10 p.m. $25 7 – 10 p.m. $25 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. none
$25 $25 none
7 – 8:30 p.m. $35 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. none
Camp Certification with Extra Experience (Overnight) Date Day Course Name Sept. 17 Tues. Camp Cert In Town Ex Exp(AC 9/28&29) Sept. 28 & 29 Sat./SunCamp Cert At Camp Ex Exp (IT 9/17)
Location GSC ATC
Time 7 – 10 p.m. 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Jan. 13 Mon. Jan. 25&26 Sat./Sun
GSC ATC
7 – 10 p.m. $25 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. none
Location ATC WAM ATC WAM ATC ATC WAM ATC ATC WAM ATC
Time Cost 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. $20 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. $20 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. $20 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. $20 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. $20 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. $20 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. $20 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. $20 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. $20 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. $20 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. $20
Camp Cert In Town (AC 1/25&26) Camp Cert ExE At Camp (IT 1/15)
Outdoor Refresher (Must hold GSSJC Camp Certification already) Date Day Course Name Sept. 21 Sat. Camp Cert At Camp Oct. 12 Sat. Camp Cert At Camp Nov. 2 Sat. Camp Cert At Camp Nov. 16 Sat. Camp Cert At Camp Dec. 7 Sat. Camp Cert At Camp Jan. 18 Sat. Camp Cert At Camp Feb. 15 Sat. Camp Cert At Camp Feb. 29 Sat. Camp Cert At Camp March 21 Sat. Camp Cert At Camp Apr 25 Sat. Camp Cert At Camp May 9 Sat. Camp Cert At Camp
Cost $25 none
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Training Calendar September
Date 7 15 21 21 21 21 28 28 28
Day Saturday Sunday Saturday Saturday Saturday Saturday Saturday Saturday Saturday
Course Name Location First Aid/CPR/AED GSC Mentoring Day GSC Daisy/Brownie Program Leadership Training GSC Getting Started with Girl Guides and Journeys GSC Partnering with Juniors GSC Partnering with Cads, Srs and Amdrs GSC Thanks a Million GSC Community/Region Treasurer GSC Community Financial Specialist GSC
Time 9 a.m. – noon 1 – 5 p.m. 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 10:30 a.m. – noon 1 – 3 p.m. 1 – 3 p.m. 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
October
1 5-Apr 5 5 5 12 16 19 19 19
Tuesday Fri-Sat Saturday Saturday Saturday Saturday Wednesday Saturday Saturday Saturday
Partnering with Juniors CYP* (new location) Camp Kitchen Certification CASA Partnering with Juniors GSC Partnering with Cads, Srs and Amdrs GSC Getting Started with Girl Guides and Journeys GSC Daisy/Brownie Program Leadership Training Huntsville - FUMC First Aid/CPR/AED Blended GSC Event Basics GSC Weekend Event Planning GSC First Aid/CPR/AED Blended Huntsville
6:30. – 8:30 p.m. 8 p.m. Fri – 9 p.m. Sat 9 – 11 a.m. 9 – 11 a.m. 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. 9 a.m. – noon 1 – 3 p.m. 9 a.m. – noon
Cost $55 $10 $6 none $6 $6 $6 $6 $6 $6 $20 $6 $6 none $6 $55 $6 $6 $55
November
Getting Started with Girl Guides and Journeys GSC 9 – 10:30 a.m. none Partnering with Juniors GSC 11 – 1 p.m. $6 Partnering with Cads, Srs and Amdrs GSC 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. $6 First Aid/CPR/AED Standard GSC 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. $55 Daisy/Brownie Program Leadership Training GSC 1:30 – 5 p.m. $6 Fall Volunteer Conference AA
December
Event Basics GSC 9 a.m. – noon. $6 Weekend Event Planning GSC 1 – 3 p.m. $6 First Aid/CPR/AED Blended GSC 9 a.m. – noon $55
2 2 2 2 3 8 thru 10 7 7 14
Saturday Saturday Saturday Saturday Sunday Fri - Sun Saturday Saturday Saturday
Location Legend/Directions to Get to an Adult Training Alvin Girl Scout House, 1009 West Lang Street, Alvin. Rte 6S or 288S to Rte 6 go to 2nd Street in Alvin. Continue on 2nd to W Sealy St and turn right. Next left onto 2nd Street again. In .2 miles turn left onto West Lang St. and go .1 mile–on the right.92 ft 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– 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 Misty Meadows Ranch. BRC: Beaumont Resource 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: 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: Cornerstone United Methodist Church (family Life Center, 18081 West Road, Houston; 290 West to Hwy 6 S and West Road 50 September/October 2019 l The Golden Link
exit and merge onto US-290 Frontage Road. Turn left onto Hwy 6 S/ FM 1960 Road W. Continue to follow Hwy 6 S. Turn right onto West Road. Church will be on the left 3. 5 miles. 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. KATY: Katy, TX (Location will be posted on registration site) First United Methodist Church of Huntsville-Huntsville: 1016 Sam Houston Ave. 59 North, Follow I-45 N to N Fwy Resource Rd in Huntsville. Take exit 116 from I-45 N. Turn right onto 11th St. Building is located on the corner of Sam Houston Ave and 10th street. Training in Community Life Center, Room 202/203. UWFTB: United Way-Fort Bend: 12300 Pare Crest Dr., Stafford. Take W.Airport Blve/Kirkwood Road exit off HWY59 S. Turn left on W. Airport Blvd, turn left onto Parc Crest Drive. WAM: Camp Wind-A-Mere – Alvin: I-45 South, exit FM 517. Turn right on McFarland Road. WP: Camp Whispering Pines-Garrison: From HWY 59 North, continue around the city of Nacogdoches on Loop 224 until it turns into HWY 59 N. Trun right on FM 2476 and proceed about one mile, turn left at green camp sign just past the water tower. Turn left at camp gate.
Columns
“Be prepared” for a hurricane or a severe storm
Around Camp
A Girl Scout is always prepared to help whenever she is needed, and she must know how to do a job well, even in an emergency. This is true today while we are still in hurricane season. Hurricanes are massive storm systems that form over warm ocean waters and move toward land. Potential threats from hurricanes include strong winds, heavy rainfall, storm surges, flooding, rip currents and tornadoes. Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30 and are most active during September. Prepare NOW so you can be ready if a tropical storm or hurricane comes your way. Monitor the local weather on the radio, television or internet to learn the location, speed and the direction the tropical storm or hurricane is moving. Here are a few tips that can help you and your family “weather the storm”:
Build an emergency kit An emergency kit has all the things that you and your family may need during an emergency in which you may have to stay inside for longer than usual or the electricity could go out. Collect these items and keep them together in a safe place that you can find easily. q 3-day supply of non-perishable food (dried fruit, canned tuna fish, peanut butter, etc.) q Can opener q First aid kit q Sleeping bag or warm blanket for everyone in your family q Change of clothes to last three days, including sturdy shoes; consider the weather where you live q Matches in a waterproof container (let a grown-up handle these) q Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap q Paper plates, plastic cups and utensils, paper towels q Water- at least a gallon per person, per day q Battery-powered or hand-cranked radio with extra batteries q Flashlights with extra batteries q Cell phone with charger, extra battery and solar charger/ vehicle charger q Whistle to call for help q Local maps q Pet supplies q Baby supplies q Books, games or puzzles q A favorite stuffed animal or blanket
Nature Trivia
What do to before a tropical system hits your area • Turn on your television, radio or check your city/county website often to get the latest weather updates and emergency instructions. • Restock your emergency preparedness kit. Don’t forget the needs of pets. • Plan how to communicate with family members if you lose power. For example, you can call, text, email or use social media. Remember that during disasters, sending text messages is usually reliable and faster than making phone calls because phone lines are often overloaded. • Review your evacuation zone, evacuation route and shelter locations with your family. • Keep your family vehicle in good working condition and keep the gas tank full; stock your vehicle with emergency supplies and a change of clothes. • Keep all important papers like birth certificates and passports in sealable plastic bags to protect them from getting wet. • Protect your property. Declutter outdoor drains and gutters. • Review insurance policies. • Bookmark your city or county website on your computer for quick access to storm updates and emergency instructions. A good one to use in the Houston area is readyharris.org. You can even get regular text updates sent to a cell phone. • Help bring loose, lightweight objects like patio furniture and garbage cans inside. They can fly around in high winds. Trim or remove trees close enough to fall on your home. • Cover all your home’s windows. You can board up windows with 5/8” exterior grade or marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install • Videotape and take pictures of your property. Do the save after the storm to compare damaged areas. Contact your insurance company for assistance.
In our last article, we learned about rain gardens, bioswales and groundwater. How many aquifers have been the primary source of water for the Houston-Galveston region since the early 1900s? The three primary aquifers in the Gulf Coast aquifer system in the Houston-Galveston region are the Chicot, Evangeline and Jasper, which are composed of laterally discontinuous deposits of gravel, sand, silt and clay. Groundwater taken from the Chicot, Evangeline and Jasper aquifers has been the primary source of water for municipal supply, commercial and industrial use, and irrigation in the HoustonGalveston region since the early 1900s. Roughly 85 - 90% of Houston’s supply is surface water from the San Jacinto River through Lake Conroe and Lake Houston, and the Trinity River, through Lake Livingston. The remaining 10 -15% percent is groundwater supplied by these three aquifers. Here’s a question for next time: Since this article was devoted to hurricane preparedness, what was the strongest hurricane to hit Texas? September/October2019 l The Golden Link
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Columns
Philanthropy The Women’s Leadership Network (WLN) is designed to bring together strong, connected women and men, who are passionate about supporting the next generation of female leaders through the best leadership development program for girls available–today’s Girl Scouts. Girl Scouts is the largest organization for girls in the world helping girls develop to their full potential; relate to others with increasing understanding, skill and respect; and develop values to guide their actions and provide the foundation for sound decisionmaking. You can be a role model and leader for girls in our area by pledging a personal gift of $1,000 for the 2019-20 campaign and joining the WLN today: What does a donation to GSSJC do for girls? • Provides life-changing programs to more than 21,000 girls in outreach offerings throughout our council • Gives Girl Scout training to more than 17,000 volunteers that lead our girls • Maintains our beloved camp properties for girls to explore • Offers research based curriculum to each girl in our council • Cares for our herd of treasured horses that girls learn from and love And so much more… For more information, contact Diane Likeness at dlikeness@sjgs.org or 713-292-0346.
GSSJC thanked and honored members of the Juliette Gordon Low Society (JGLS) who have made GSSJC a beneficiary in their estate plans at an appreciation luncheon April 16. Joining this legacy society is easy. For more information, contact Diane Pavey at dpavey@sjgs.org. Support our girls today and tomorrow!
Thank you for supporting GSSJC while back to school shopping Before you head out to do your back to school shopping this year, check out these simple and easy ways to financially support GSSJC. Share these opportunities with your friends and colleagues! Amazon: Make sure you shop via smile.amazon.com and search for Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council or go to https:// smile.amazon.com/ch/74-6001254 and link your Amazon account to us. A portion of eligible purchases will be donated back to GSSJC. Kroger: Visit krogercommunityrewards.com to link your Kroger Plus Card to Girl Scouts, and a portion of your purchase will be donated to GSSJC. Search for Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council by name or by the organizational number 83762. This must be done yearly.
Thank You, GSSJC Donors! May 1 – June 30, 2019 $25,000+ - Ambassador The Hamill Foundation The Robert and Janice McNair Foundation $10,000-$24,999 Senior ExxonMobil RK Mellon Foundation TLL Temple Foundation $5,000-$9,999 Cadette Dr. Leon Bromberg Charitable Trust The Community Foundation of Brazoria County Lowrey Grant Marathon Petroleum
Company OCuSOFT Inc Michelle and Joseph Raab
For any questions about the donor list, contact Suzanne Boak at 713-292-0273 or sboak@gssjc.org. Honorariums listed are $25 and above.
$250-$999 - Brownie Anne V. Blount Jane M. Brownlee $1,000-$4,999 - Junior ConocoPhillips Baker Hughes, a GE Company company Morven S. Edwards Sally A. Clark Claudia W. Hayslip Cy-Fair Women's Club K. Daniel and Delores Girl Scouts of the USA James Hinkle Sue Kean & Grady Walker Valerie Jalufka The Lubrizol Corporation Kroger Company Rotary Club of North Patti L. Massaro Shore Cassandra McZeal Dianna Singh Tricia Moody Smart Financial Louise Rugaard Foundation Safeway Inc. Union Pacific Foundation J.B. & Kathryn Sallas United Way of Galveston Charitable Foundation Inc Kathryn Sanders
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Ronak Shah Shell Oil Company Donna S. Sisak Karen and Ken Soh Daree D. Stracke Troop #130024 United Way Suncoast United Way of Mid & South Jefferson County United Way of Midland County UPS Natalie Weakly Memorials In Memory of Addison Allen Danna Apolloni Leaneta Eilers Kayla Traversone
In Memory of Kimberly Vaughan Anne Baumgardner Julie Dittman June Dowdy Anne Furse Jennifer Hoppe Emily Hoppel Shelley Hubble Julie Marinucci Holly Novak John David Suayan Honorariums In Honor of Mary Holland RoseMary Maniscalso In Honor of Troop #142147, Sunshine Stars Community Lisa Hasch
Columns
Service Around Council Troop #125076 used their cookie proceeds to purchase and deliver $443 worth of clothing to BEAR, a nonprofit for children in CPS care.
Troop #147041 posed with Council Member Martha Castex-Tatum while volunteering at the Keep Westbury Beautiful workday. Troop #150004 helped bag personal hygiene kits for CPS children at Be A Resource (BEAR).
Troop #118151 built and donated a free little library to their school Maplebrook Elementary. Girl Scouts from across the council gathered at Autumn Leaves of Pearland, a memory care facility, to celebrate the Girl Scout birthday with residents.
Troop #111105 visited Turtle Island Restoration Center in Galveston to discuss plastic pollution and turtle rescue, followed by a private beach clean-up
Troop #114149 stuffed more than 300 eggs to donate to Heroes Thanking Heroes for Easter.
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Scrapbook
GSSJC Scrapbook
Send your photos to ations@ communic clude sjgs.org. In in the # p oo your tr e. lin t subjec
Sending in your photos does not guarantee placement in Golden Link.
See your pictures on Facebook! Find your photos in a monthly scrapbook album on our page: facebook.com/gssjc
Troop #27574 worked more than 100 girl-hours to host a garage sale to help pay for their troop summer travel in 2020.
Troop #10831 presented a petition for filtered water fountains to help improve health and reduce disposable plastic water bottle waste.
Troop #26006 camped in the Tejas Teepees at Camp Wind-A-Mere while working on their Eco Camper badge, practicing outdoor skills and learning about Native American culture.
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Troop #114149 toured the Amazon facility and learned about the robots they use.
Katalyna of Troop #114202 attended the Dr. Girl Scout Little Medical School event where she learned about being healthy and received her very own lab coat.
Scrapbook Troop #114071 had a blast from the past playing games and getting messy at GAM 2019 Girl Scouts Go Retro at Casa Mare.
Troop #113116 helped Special Pals animal shelter as part of their It’s Your World – Change It! Journey by gathering and delivering items needed for their furry residents.
Troop #111034 built and cooked snacks in pizza box solar ovens while earning their Eco Camper badge.
Troop #114171 enjoyed a fun-filled Girl Scout program at Willow Creek Ranch of Tomball.
Troop #111139 decorated flower pots and planted a marigold to practice responsibility, just like Mari the Marigold.
Troop #122016 enjoyed learning the 5 Skills while selling cookies at their cookie booth this year. Troop #127014 earned their Comic Artist badge with the help of a troop mom who works as a graphic artist.
Troop #129085 earned their Outdoor Art Maker badge during a visit to their neighborhood park. September/October2019 l The Golden Link
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Scrapbook Troop #132026 visited the downtown Harris County Election Services office to earn the Behind the Ballot, Finding Common Ground and Inside Government badges.
Troop #130054 used Fall Product funds to go on a rockclimbing trip to Enchanted Rock in Fredericksburg. Troop #136001 celebrated Women's History Month by hosting a "Wonder Women Career Night."
Troop #149027 had a great time participating in the 2019 Cinco De Mayo Parade in downtown Houston. Troop #154072 spent their troop meeting assembling Easter baskets filled with supplies and goodies for others.
Girl Scouts from the Island Creek Community were honored to perform the flag ceremony at Relay for Life of Katy W Houston.
Bria S. of Troop #21196 participated in KPRCTV Channel 2’s Earth Day segment featuring GSSJC’s Media Corps members.
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Troops #114171 and #114036 stuffed 1,164 eggs for Lemm Elementary’s kindergarten egg hunt.
Scrapbook
Scrapbook
Girl Scouts from Magnolia, TX celebrated Star Wars day at the “May the Fourth Be with You” Camporee at Camp Robinwood. Troop #114182 eared their Pet badge while staying overnight at the Downtown Aquarium.
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JOURNEY
TO THE STARS AT THE GEORGE OBSERVATORY Join us for an adventure into space or explore the night on your Girl Scout Journeys! BROWNIES Passport to the Universe 2019: November 9 2020: March 28
BROWNIES Space Science Overnight 2020: May 29-30
JUNIORS Journey to the Stars Overnight 2019: November 15-16, and December 6-7 2020: January 17-18, March 6-7, April 3-4 and May 1-2
CADETTE Night Owls Overnight 2019: November 1-2 2020: February 7-8, April 17-18 and May 15-16
Contact Barbara Brown at bbrown@hmns.org or call 281 242-3055 to register!
GEORGE OBSERVATORY Located inside Brazos Bend State Park
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Raising Awesome Girls Stop Back-to-School Stress In Its Tracks We’ve all seen the commercial. Mom and kids walking peacefully down the perfectly-stocked and tidy aisles of their local big-box store, dropping boxes of pencils and notebooks gingerly into the cart. Looks like a lovely way to spend a Saturday afternoon, right? Well, maybe not.
For most parents, preparing to send their kids back to school can be pretty stressful. School supplies and backto-school clothes can get expensive, earlier wake-up times can be hard to get used to, and keeping track of all those orientations and open house nights can be a bit of a bear. While we can’t ever promise a Pinterest-perfect back-toschool season (show us a “perfect” family, and we’ll show you the Loch Ness Monster), but we can make this annual transition a tiny bit easier on you and the whole family. Borrow these simple tips from Girl Scouts’ Developmental Psychologist, Dr. Andrea Bastiani Archibald, and make the start of this school year your family’s best yet. 1. Simplify the shopping Before your brain breaks over the sheer number of school supplies on your child’s list, take a minute to poke around your house and see what your child might have left over from last year. You just might be surprised by how much of the list you’ve already got. Once you know what you actually still need to purchase, head to the stores as soon as you can. Don’t wait until the week before school starts, and try to go early in the morning—before the shelves are totally picked over and the lines are out of control. And if school is about to start and you’re scrambling? Consider ordering online to save yourself some time and hassle. There are tons of good deals out there, especially with coupon codes. 2. Plow through that paperwork Get any school-related forms filled out now, because there’s likely going to be plenty more of it coming down the pike in the first month of school. The more you can complete and send back early, the easier your life will be a few weeks from now. 3. Check in with the doctor Is your child up to date on all the shots required for her school? Has she had her physical so that she can start fall soccer with her teammates? Do you have copies of prescriptions for any medications your child might need to take at school? Make sure you get all of that taken care of ahead of time, and also double check that you have any epipens, inhalers, etc. that your child might need. Rushing to get these at the last minute will add stress to everyone’s plate.
4. Make time to save time Get your kids started on time-saving habits as early as possible. That means earlier bedtimes, setting clothes out the night before, and even setting the breakfast table so that you have one fewer thing to do in the morning. If you can get this going even just a week before school starts, that’s ideal, but it’s really never too late to start adopting some of these routines. 5. Delegate, delegate, delegate Moms in particular too often try to take on everything on the back to school to-do list. The truth is, though, that partners often want to help, but don’t know where to start or what needs to be done. You’ll feel a lot more together and way more relaxed if you make getting the kids back to school a family affair. Even the youngest of children can get in on the act by labeling their school supplies or organizing a place near the front door to keep all the backpacks in one place. Teamwork makes everything easier!
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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.
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2019 Fall Product Program Parent Information Guide Thank you for allowing your Girl Scout to participate in Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council’s Fall Product Program. This fall offer your Girl Scout the opportunity to “Believe in Herself” by learning skills in goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills and business ethics from GSSJC’s Fall Product Program.
What Girls Need to Participate q q q q
Signed Parent Permission and Responsibility Form Paper order card Money envelope Clover Go app (if your troop is participating in credit card sales)
Participating Online Beginning September 20, with parental supervision, girls create an online account in the M2 Online System (M2OS). Within her online account, she: q Creates a Me2® avatar with her own virtual likeness q Enters email addresses q Creates a personal message to send to family and friends to promote Fall Product Program. (She can record a message for her Me2 or upload a video!) q Girls should create their online account and send out emails early in the program to maximize time for their customers to make purchases. Emails sent include her personal message and links for customers to support her! Girls can also print a flyer on M2OS with their personal store code to distribute to potential customers. Each special code grants customers access to her site – both she and her troop receive credit for the purchase. Payment is collected at the time of the online order (online via credit card) for all products ordered via direct-ship. All orders placed online (including girldelivery orders) are automatically added to M2OS so parents don’t need to enter any online sales. Paper Order Card Sales Girls take orders from friends and family. Parents enter totaled orders in M2OS on October 21 by 10:59 p.m. CST. Ask your troop leader for assistance if needed! Payment for nuts/candy is collected at time of delivery.
Dates to Remember September 20 Fall Product Program opens! To get started, follow the instructions to the left in Participating Online.
October 20 Last day to take orders for items that will be delivered by girls. These orders include orders placed on a paper order card, as well as any girl-delivery orders placed online. October 21 by 10:59 p.m. CST Last day for parents to enter orders from paper order card in M2OS. Do not enter girl-delivered online orders, these are already in the system. November 2 – 9 Fall Product delivery. November 17 by 10:59 p.m. CST Online sales end. Early January Rewards distributed to girls.
Troop Proceeds and Girl Rewards
Girl rewards and troop proceeds are automatically calculated in M2OS. Girls can earn the rewards shown on the paper order card. Rewards are cumulative, which means the girl earns all the rewards to the sales level achieved. As orders are placed, girls can log into M2OS to see what they have earned!
NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID HOUSTON, TX PERMIT NO. 6743
Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council 3110 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77098-4508
SCOUT GROUPS SAVE $5 on Tickets! FREE Commemorative Patch With Purchase of Each Scout Ticket Groups of 10 or more. Listed price is per person. Restrictions and exclusions may apply. Subject to availability. The Scout Clinic will be held following the November 15, 7:30 PM performance. Expires: 11/8/19.
NRG STADIUM
NOV 13 – 17
For more information and to purchase group tickets, call 281-367-9717 or email christina@texasgrouptickets.com.
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