Fly Up Meeting Minutes - 3/15/11

Fly Up Planning Meeting - 3/15/11


What is Fly Up? Flying up is graduation from one level to the next. Every troop that is moving from one level to the next can fly up and will receive her wings.

Troops can also earn their bridging patch - updated requirements are out at girlscoutseasternmass.org

It will be held at NR HS Auditorium on 5/22 6-8p.m. Because dates are tight, there will be no rehearsal; however, the Senior troop that is flying up will help coordinate the troops in lining up to minimize confusion.

This year's theme is "Candyland".

Ceremony will follow this format:
o Flag ceremony (5 min)
o Presentation of banners (5 min) explain banners
o Welcome (5 min) done by Amy
o Juliette Low World Friendship Fund Collection (5 min).  This is a donation made to support troops around the world, suggested donation by each troop is 50 cents to 1 dollar per girl
o Crossing the bridge (30 min)
o Entertainment - Slide show (5-10 min)
o Leader Awards (5-10 min) done by Amy
o Closing Ceremony (5 min)
o Refreshments (25 min)

Each troop takes a job - and the girls should be involved in doing the work of the job.  Jobs were assigned as follows:

• Site Reservations/73904/Alycia McGoldrick
• Invitation Flyer/71868/Kate Mahoney
• Program Layout/71872/Julia Slavin
• Stage Decorations/71872/Julia Slavin
• Bridge Decorations/73903/Laura Wall
• Town Gift for Girls/73904/Alycia McGoldrick
• Announcers/71888/Amanda Heffernan
• Opening Flag Ceremony
• Posting of Banners/73899/Ruth Kennedy
• Juliette Low Collection/71868/Kate Mahoney
• Refreshment Set up/85122/Patti Harrington
• Refreshment (organize and serve)/71890/Kristen Kuperstein
• Clean up/71896/Melissa Grew
• Clean up/71880/Kristin Lamont
• Hostesses/71889/Keri DiNapoli
• Seat Assignments and Signage/71905/Karen McCullough
• Slide Show/73894/Jan Wise

Remember: Troops doing set up must arrive 30 minutes early (Stage décor, bridge décor, refreshments, seating assignments)

All girls should arrive 10 minutes early

Rosters were checked.
Each troop pays for wings, pin, bridges from their account (or have parents pay). We suggest that these items are NOT handed out at Fly Up.

No need to fill out an activity form – I will take care of that.

Each troop brings 3-4 dozen desserts.

Science & Technology Seminar for 8th grade and up, 4/9/11

Please let them know, when you register, that you are a Girl Scout.

For girls who love science, technology, engineering & math...

Are you interested in a career using science, technology, engineering or math? Would you like to learn more about emerging careers in these fields?

S

SCIENCE

T

TECHNOLOGY

E

ENGINEERING

M

MATH

EXPO HIGHLIGHTS
Guest Speaker, Dr. Susan Avery, Director and President, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, will discuss career opportunities in STEM (science, technology, engineering & math) for girls today.

Learn about four emerging industries and the various career paths, internship opportunities, and strategies pertaining to them.

Meet successful women working as experts in their fields who will share their insights. During the hands-on activities you will work directly with them.

Hear from expert female panel guest speakers who will answer your questions directly.

Receive many giveaways including a Sci-Tech Girl tee shirt, and gift bag, and meet many high school girls from across Southeastern Mass who, like you, are interested in a career using STEM.

Saturday, April 9, 8:30am to 3:30pm
Located at the Mass. Maritime Campus, Buzzards Bay

Enrollment fee: $20 (limited to 100 participants Register Now!)

Call 774-994-2097 or email Phyllis@juniortech.org
http://www.juniortech.org/

Focusing on careers for girls in emerging fields including aerospace, environment, marine and medical careers

Expo Schedule at a glance:

WELCOME
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Susan Avery, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
EXPO DAY OVERVIEW
Caroline Goode, Member of the Governor’s STEM Advisory Council
MORNING & AFTERNOON HANDS-ON-WORKSHOPS
AEROSPACE CAREERS
Living & Working in Space — Astronaut Training Simulations & Space Suits
NASA, Aerospace & YOU! — Learn about NASA, aerospace internships and career opportunities for women!
ENVIRONMENT CAREERS
Sustaining our Planet — How will green technology affect careers of the future? Take the GREEN Tour of the MMA Campus.
MARINE CAREERS
Underwater Robotics (ROV’s) — Build & drive an underwater ROV
Saving our Marine Life — Rehabilitation, Tagging & Release — Understanding the causes of stranding and the strategy for saving our oceans and marine life
MEDICAL CAREERS
Health & Physical Therapy — Physical Therapy & Sports
Forensics — Understanding forensics and using blood-typing to solve a crime
Biotechnology — DNA Extraction, Understanding the Biotech in CSI
LUNCH
PANEL DISCUSSION AND Q&A including but not limited to:
Megan Amsler, Executive Director of Cape & Islands Self-Reliance Corp
Rhonda Moniz, Benthic Exploration (joined Dr. Robert Ballard’s research vessel July 2010)
Kathy Zagzebski, President, National Marine Life Center
Dr. Giza High, UMass Medical Center
Dr. Lynn Graff, Dr. of Physical Therapy
CLOSING REMARKS
Dr. Elizabeth Stevenson, Dean of Enrollment, Massachusetts Maritime Academy will provide a top-ten list of college application strategies.

WHEN: Saturday, April 9, 8:30am to 3:30pm

WHERE: Located at the Mass. Maritime Campus, Buzzards Bay
PRICE: Enrollment fee: $20 (limited to 100 participants — Register Now!)

Call 774-994-2097 or email Phyllis@juniortech.org • www.juniortech.org

Whitewater Rafting (Charlemont) for Seniors and Ambassadors, 5/14/11

Go to Zoar Outdoor in western Massachusetts for a fun adventure ride on class II and III rapids on the Deerfield River, including the Freight Train, Pinball and Microwave! A fantastic trip for White Water Rafting first-timers! This exciting day fulfills a bridging requirement. Price includes, lunch, wet suit rental, PFD's, and helmets. Program questions: Jessie Wetzel, Waltham 781-373-4310.

Date:May 14, 2011

Time:10:30 AM - 04:30 PM

Program Level:Senior, Ambassador

Grades:9, 10, 11, 12

Category:Outdoor Adventures Camp

Location:

Charlemont, MA 01339

Fee:$56.00 (girl), $66.00 (adult)

Register online: http://www.girlscoutseasternmass.org/search.html

As an editorial comment - I did this program with my girls (that is some of them in the photo) - and they LOVED it and want to go again, but do a more challenging river!

Leader Meeting Minutes - 3/15/11

Attendees: Service Unit (SU) Coordinator: Amy Kelly [73897, 71901], SU Secretary: Debbie Nearing [73891], SU Registrar:Anne Valade, SU Recording Secretary: Alycia McGoldrick [73904], SU Event Coordinator Angela Danico [71886], Little School Coordinator Barbara Gravel [71876], SU Treasurer: Julia Slavin [71872], SU Cookie Coordinator: Kerstin March [71898], Mary Lasdin [71871, 71893], Kerry Lord [71889], Denise Forcellese [73901], Cindy Russell [73917], Melissa Grew [71896], Batch Coordinator Michelle Rosenthal [71902], Christie Perrone [73898], Michelle Gwozdz [85120], Karen McCullough [71905], Ruth Kennedy [73899], Amanda Heffernan [71888], Kristin Lamont [71884, 71880, 85193], Lisa Craig [71880], Debbie Aalto [71880], Jan Wise [73894], Patti Harrington [71876], Laura Wall [73903], Kate Mahoney [71868]


Items requiring attention are marked in red

ASAP!! Items requiring IMMEDIATE attention are preceded by "ASAP!" and marked in red

Intro/Announcements
Meeting was called to order at 7:35 pm
Pledge of Allegiance and the Girl Scout Promise were recited

Council Updates

Three North Reading Service Unit Volunteers will be receiving awards from Girl Scouts of Eastern Mass (GSEM) at the upcoming awards banquet. Two North Reading Leaders will be receiving awards from GSEM at Fly Up. There is still time to nominate leaders and volunteers for Service Unit level awards.

There are changes coming from GSUSA:
◊ "Juliettes" will now be called "Independently Registered Girls".
◊ By Fall '12, the current badges and badge books will be obsolete. New books will be available this fall ('ll). New books will be 3-ring binders.
◊ New bridging requirements (easier) are available out at GSUSA

Reading Council for Girls is NOT going to be able to offer camperships (camp scholarships) this year.

Service Opportunities have been added to the blog:
◊ Cradles to Crayons - clothing and toy collection. Drop off is local at the NR Comcast on 4/22 from 1-3. Looking for older girl volunteers to help.
◊ 100 year celebration kickoff at Franklin Park Zoo on 4/16. Girls can register on-line until 4/1. Asking girls to bring plastic bags for a recycling project.
◊ Beginning 4/16, the Forever Green project starts. Girls can go to GSUSA to learn how to reduce their footprint AND take the Forever Green pledge. This will be available until April '12.
◊ Council-wide Camperee to celebrate 100 years next year, 6/1-6/3/12 down on the cape. Council is asking all towns to use this as their encampment. Cost will be $35 per person. Troops will need to meet their Adult camp requirements (troop camp certified, first aider)

Events
Events are now being posted to the North Reading Patch!

Girl Scout Sunday
◊ Feedback is that this went well townwide.
◊ Thanks to all the coordinators that managed each of the houses of worship.
◊ There are still patches available if anyone needs extras.

Mother/Daughter Game Night
◊ Cancelled due to low participation.
◊ There was a long discussion about flyers/blogs/attendance - and feedback was captured for the Service Team to discuss at their next Service Team meeting.

Food Pantry
◊ Post-it posters are working well at Stop and Shop and Wal-mart
◊ St. Teresa's response on Girl Scout Sunday was great...two vanfulls went to the Pantry
◊ Collection Drop-off is Saturday 3/19, 10am-12:30pm at Town Hall. There will be tours available for troops that want them

Rollerskating (flyer on the blog)
◊ 3/17, 1:30-3:30pm at Beverly Rollerpalace
◊ All levels
◊ Girls should bring an item for the Food Pantry
◊ Tickets will be sold at the door
◊ This is a Friends and Family event, and brothers can and do attend!

Brownie Ready, Set, Go Camping Try-it Event (flyer on the blog)
◊ 3/26 at Camp Maude Eaton, 10am-12pm
◊ Brownies
◊ Sign-ups were due at March Leader meeting - but additional sign-ups can go to Cindy Russell ctrussell@comcast.net

Me and My Pal Bowling (flyer on the blog)
◊ 4/2 at Wakefield Bowladrome (two sessions)
◊ 5th grade and up
◊ Sign-ups were due at March Leader meeting - but additional sign-ups can go to Mary Lasdin lasdin@comcast.net

Mother/Daughter Ice Cream Social and Magic Show (flyer on the blog)
◊ 4/3 at Moose Hall, 2-4pm
◊ Brownies
◊ Mail or drop off registration to Amy Kelly kellys@majekelly.com by 3/25

Vacation Gymnastics (flyer on the blog)
◊ 4/20 at Reading Gymnastics, 1:30-3:30 pm
◊ Daisies and Brownies
◊ First come, first served event - space is limited (60 girl limit)
◊ Forms will be collected at the April Leader's meeting

Fancy Nancy Arty Party (flyer were provided at Leader meeting)
◊ 4/28 North Reading High School Cafeteria, 4-5:30 pm
◊ Daisies
◊ Storytelling, painting (with washable paints and aprons), tea party

What's Your Make-Up Attitude (flyer on the blog)
◊ 4/30 at Camp Rice Moody, 6-8:30 pm
◊ Grades 5-12
◊ Girls will learn about hairstyles, haircare, appropriate makeup, skincare
◊ Girls will also learn how the media presents images of "perfect" girls...but nobody is perfect!
◊ Girls should bring a toiletry item for donating to the Food Pantry
◊ Forms will be collected at the April Leader's meeting

April Leader Meeting
◊ Moved to 4/12 due to April Vacation Week
◊ Will be in Library activity room

S.H.A.R.E.
◊ This is the fundraiser run by Council, once a year.
◊ Letters and envelopes were distributed at Leader's Meeting
◊ Every family should get a contribution envelope and SHARE letter. The envelope should be returned to the leader, sealed, with whatever donation they feel they can contribute inside. The Leader then puts all of the individual envelopes into the large white envelope and seals it. The Leader then returns the large white envelope at the April Leaders meeting.
◊ GSEM spends ~$300 per girl annually on programs, camp maintenance, scholarships, training, etc...
◊ Need to reach town-wide $1500 goal in order to receive 10% back to North Reading funds

Cookies
◊ Payments were due 3/15
◊ Didn't quite reach the sales total of last year
◊ Recognitions will be available at May Leader's Meeting
◊ Service Unit purchased a case of Thanks A Lots to use as thank you gifts for merchants and individuals in town who support NRGS. This includes: NR Transcript, Rev. Hughes, Rich Porter, Reading Coop, Citizens Bank, North Shore Printing, Karin Marlin @ Town Hall, NR Business Office, Library
◊ Looking for troops to write a Thank You note to one of the above and deliver cookies with the note. Younger troops can take a photo of the girls presenting the thank you and have it posted in the Transcript!
◊ Several Leaders attended the Cookie Creations event - and highly recommend it for next year! This is an adult event.
◊ Cookie Sell Down runs 3/18-3/26 (closed Mondays). Cases can be purchased at $2.50/box and then used for a booth sale - keeping the $1.50 as profit for the troop. Cases must be paid for with cash or money orders only. Cookies can't be sold past May 31st. The Cookie Cupboard in North Andover is part of the Sell Down.

Meeting was adjourned at 8:55

Fly Up Planning Meeting immediately followed

Fitness to Fashion Interest Project Patch for girls 5th-12th grade - 4/30

This event is for the older girls - grades 5-12.  During this event, they'll learn about hairstyles and haircare, age appropriate makeup techniques and skin care, and see how the "perfect" images we see in magazines aren't that perfect after all!

April 30th, 6-8:30 pm
Cost: $6 per girl
Each girl should bring one toiletry item to donate to the Food Pantry

The flyer can be found here

Vacation Week Gymnastics for younger girls - 4/20, 2 sessions

Want to add a scout event to your calendar during April vacation week?
Join us on April 20th at Reading Gymnastics from 1:30-3:30 pm (NOTE - THIS HAS BEEN UPDATED TO A SINGLE SESSION)
This is a first come, first served event as there are a limited number of spaces!

Cost: $7 per girl
Activity patch and snack included

See the flyer for more information

Spring Service Project - Clean Out Your Closets! Drop Off 4/22

Please Join Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts, Cradles to Crayons, and Comcast for Comcast Cares Day.

It's time to clean out your children's closets and donate your items to Cradles to Crayons.

Donations of children's goods are what make the Giving Factory possible, and make it so efficient and effective. They accept your donations of new and gently used clothing, books, toys, baby items, and school supplies for kids age 0 to 12. www.boston.cradlestocrayons.org for a complete list.

Please only donate clothing that you would have your children wear. Not rips, tears, or stains.

Don't forget as a council we are collecting New Socks and Underwear. We are halfway to our goal of 5,000 pairs of each! If you donate socks and underwear to one of these locations, let Joan Reilly know how many pairs so we can add them to the tally.

Bring your items to one of the following Comcast locations and they will transport it to Cradles to Crayons where they will sort and distribute it. There is a very narrow window for dropoff. Please do not call Comcast to arrange another time. If you can't make this time, you can drop off directly to Cradles to Crayons prior to April 30 for Comcast Cares Day. A limited amount of donations can be dropped off at the Waltham Council Office during the week of April 25. Call or email Joan Reilly to arrange jreilly@girlscoutseasternmass.org 781-373-4232

There is space for 50 Girl Scout Volunteers to help work at the Cradles to Crayons warehouse on April 30 for the morning. If you are interested in helping, please contact Joan Reilly by April 15. This is a first come/first serve opportunity.

Comcast Drop Off Locations for April 22 from 1- 3 PM Only.

WarehouseAddress
Westford, MA4 Lyberty Way, Westford, MA 01886
Lawrence, MA148 Shepard St., Lawrence, MA 01843
S. Boston, MA426 E. 1st St., S. Boston, MA 02127
Natick, MA241 W. Central St., Natick, MA 01760
Winchester, MA10 Lowell Ave., Winchester, MA 01890
N. Reading, MA55 Concord St., N. Reading, MA 01864
Beverly, MA12 Tozer Rd., Beverly, MA 01915
Taunton, MA440 Myles Standish Blvd., Taunton, MA 02780
Foxborough, MA85 E. Belcher Rd., Foxborough, MA 02035
S. Yarmouth, MA10 Old Town House Rd., S. Yarmouth, MA 02664
Plymouth, MA40 Grissom Rd., Plymouth, MA 02360

Girl Scout Sunday - 3/6/11, Girl Scout Sabbath - 3/12/11

Girl Scout Sunday is 3/6/11, Girl Scout Sabbath is 3/12/11

Attend a worship service and wear your uniform and get a GS Sunday patch!
Join your scouting friends at your local house of worship...

See attached flyer for more info

Older Girl Encampment - 5/13-5/15 - sign up by 3/15!

It's all about ME!
Older Girl Encampment 2011

Camp Virginia, Bolton, MA
Friday May 13 – Sunday May 15

You designed this encampment to be run by older girls for older girls. Enjoy new friends and old friends as you move between swimming, canoeing, archery, tie-dye, and field games. Tell your leaders to grab a coffee mug, slippers and a book or two since otherwise they will be bored; this is all about me! Participate in a wandering lunch to show off your best outdoor cooking skills and maybe learn some new ones. Have you ever cooked a twenty pound turkey at camp?

Each troop will prepare their best appetizer, side dish, soup/stew, or dessert to wow the rest of camp. The encampment committee will be responsible for the turkey. At meal time wander from site to site to taste the amazing things others have created. Further details to follow.

Registration is first-come, first-served. A full payment of $15 per girl (adult participation should meet Safety Checkpoints—no charge) must be submitted with the form below, no later than March 15, 2010. Confirmation packets will be mailed out thereafter with all the information you will need.

Please complete and return the form below and send it along with your check made payable to "GSEM-Special Events" to:

Paula Ruozzi
50 Washington Street
Braintree, MA, 02184

E-mail questions to Paula at Ruozzi@beld.net

PLEASE NOTE: Troops will be responsible for meals, with the exception of Saturday lunch where each troop will be responsible for a part of the meal to be shared with the group. The Committee will provide snacks. A troop activity form should be submitted with your application noting all qualified adult information. Permission forms and current health cards should accompany girls who attend as troops. Each troop must make transportation arrangements.

-------------------------------------------------------------

It's all about ME!
May 13-14-15, 2011
Troop Leader________________________________Troop #______________

Address (include town)__________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

Phone#_________________ E-Mail_________________________________________

# of Girls in each grade: 6__ 7__ 8__ 9__ 10__ 11__ 12__

# of REQUIRED adults_______ (per Safety Checkpoints)

Amount enclosed: @ $15.00/girl = $_____________

Please check arrival time: ________Friday evening ________Saturday morning

I think Friday evening program should be: ________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

I think Saturday evening program should be: ______________________________

________________________________________________________________________

My girls are interested in being on the Planning Committee ___ Yes ___ No

Paula Ruozzi
GSEM Facilitator & Large Event Organizer
50 Washington Street
Braintree, MA 02184-1418
ruozzi@beld.net
(781) 843-2605

Grease - discout tickets for Girl Scouts!

Girl Scout Tickets as low as $20! Save up to 65% off!

Direct from Broadway for one week only!

April 27-May 1, 2011

8 shows only

Groups Save on fees:

Call 617-532-1116 or email groups@citicenter.org

Not Bringing a Group of 10+? You can still save – use code GSCOUTMA at CITICENTER.ORG, 866-348-9738, OR VISIT OUR BOX OFFICE.

Leader Meeting Minutes - 2/15/11

Attendees: Service Unit (SU) Coordinator: SU Secretary: Debbie Nearing [73891], SU Registrar:Anne Valade, SU Recording Secretary: Alycia McGoldrick [73904], SU Event Coordinator Angela Danico, Little School Coordinator Barbara Gravel [71876], SU Treasurer: Julia Slavin [71872], SU Cookie Coordinator: Kerstin March [71898], Amanda Heffernan [71888], Denise Forcellese [73901], Nancy Vadala [78174], Laura Wall [73903], Cindy Russell [73917], Ruth Kennedy [73899], Denise Costantino [71865], Christie Perrone [73898], Kristin Puliafico [85118], Barbara Duff [71902], Sandy Griffin [71900], Dorothy Lehane [73899], Jan Wise [73894]

Items requiring attention are marked in red
ASAP!! Items requiring IMMEDIATE attention are preceded by "ASAP!" and marked in red

Intro/Announcements
Meeting was called to order at 7:35 pm
Pledge of Allegiance and the Girl Scout Promise were recited

Council Updates
World Thinking Day is 2/22
● Scouts participate in activities, games and projects with global themes to honor their sister Girl Scouts and Girl Guides around the world
● Monday Leader email had ideas on what you can do if you want to observe it
● For more info: http://www.girlscouts.org/who_we_are/global/world_thinking_day/
● 2011  World Thinking Day theme is "Empowering Girls Will Change Our World" ●
● There will be a live chat for scouts and leaders through the link http://webchat.scoutlink.net/. There are different chat rooms available based on language and some interest based rooms
● Next year we're hoping to have a townwide World Thinking Day event 

Summer Camp Brochures have been mailed
● Reading Council for Girls expects to offer scholarships again this year (applies to any camp)
● Register before 4/15 and get $25 off AND be entered into a drawing to win a free week of camp

Upcoming Events

Food Pantry - March
● The NR Girl Scouts sponsor the NR Food Pantry for the month of March
● Flyers are available on the blog.  There are 3 different flyers for different methods of collection and different age levels - choose the one that works best for you!
● Dropoff will be at the Town Hall Gym on 3/19 from 10 am to 12pm
● Tours will be avaialbe at Dropoff
● New initiative - at local Stop&Shop, there will be a display with PostIts to identify needed items.   Girl Scouts will be on hand one weekend to draw attention to the display
● Trying to set up a food donation drive at St. Teresa's on Girl Scout Sunday
● All troops should try to participate in this important service project

Mother/Daughter Game Night - 3/6
● For girls 5th-12th grades
● Registration was due 2/15, but can still email Anne annevalade@comcast.net and Debbie bcednearing@comcast.net ASAP
● Flyers are available on the blog

Girl Scout Sunday - 3/6, Girl Scout Sabbath - 3/12
● Any girl who attends one of these services at a house of worship is eligible to receive a patch. 
● A leader with patches will be available at St. Teresa's, Union Congregational, Aldersgate Methodist, and Trinity Evangelical
● If patches are needed for another house of worship, contact Angela angela@danicofamily.com
● The girls should wear some piece of their uniform
● Flyers are available on the blog

Friends and Family Rollerskating - 3/17
● Registration was due 2/15, but likely will be able to get tickets at the door
● Event needs to guarantee 100 participants in advance or may be cancelled
● Will also do a Food Pantry collection at the event - bring an item!
● Flyers are available on the blog

Brownie Try-it Day - Ready, Set, Go Camping! - 3/26 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
● Brownies will earn Ready, Set, Go Camping Try-it
● Girls will rotate through indoor and outdoor activities
● At Camp Maude Eaton in Andover
● $10/girl
● Will need 1 adult/troop to stay and help
● Flyers are available on the blog

Father/Daughter Bowling - 4/2 4 p.m.-6:30 p.m.
● Grades 4 & up
● At Wakefield Bowladrome
● More info to come

Vacation Week Gymnastics - 4/20
● Open to all girls, but generally attended by Daisies and Brownies
● More info to come

Night of Beauty - tentatively 4/30 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
● Hair and makeup instruction
● Being planned by Girl Council (a group of older girls that meet to plan events and give input on things for the older scouts; more are always welcome...contact Anne Valade annevalade@comcast.net)

Fairy Houses for Daisies - late April
● More info to come

Mother/Daughter Daisy Event - April
● More info to come

Fly Up
● Will have first meeting immediately following next Leaders Meeting in March
● Likely to be late May/early June, maybe mid-week
● Feedback on Reading Parker Middle School: parking was an issue (there was additional parking available), venue was good, Reading allowed us to book as a Reading Non-Profit, if we book it out of town, we need to get it on the Town Calendar so that others know it is happening,
● Troops will need Memorial Day banner for Fly-up (will need it for Memorial Day Parade also).  Examples will be brought to March meeting
● Jan Wise has the bridge, who has the flags?
● Send feedback from past Fly-ups to Alycia alycia.mcgoldrick@gmail.com

S.H.A.R.E. Family Partnership Campaign will be in April/early May
● Fundraising run by Council, for our Council only
● Only reach out to Girl Scout families
● Money is used for camp upkeep, programs, Leader training, camp scholarships, etc...
● May have town-wide S.H.A.R.E. event "Support Her Artistic Renderings Event" and will ask every girl to make an art project (small) to display/sell [drawing, sewing, knitting, painting, ceramics, cake decorating, whatever!]
● Troop could create an item for purchase
● S.H.A.R.E. envelope will be entrance ticket

Lowell Spinners offers Scout Night Sleepovers
● More info posted on the blog

Cookies!
● Cookies are here
● Kerstin march.family@verizon.net has extra cookies if needed
● Delivery day was great - thanks to all the volunteers
● We are withing $200 of last year's sales
● Booth Sales distribution of cookie credits to girls need to be complete by 3/18
● Roundup cookies can be assigned to girls who sold them by 3/18
● Adopt An Owl information should come with the recognitions

Meeting ended at 8:40
Next Meeting is March 15th

March is North Reading Food Pantry month for the Girl Scouts!

Every March, North Reading Girl Scouts "adopts" the North Reading Food Pantry.  There are many ways to get involved: collecting in your neighborhood, collecting within your family, etc...and hopefully your troop has some activities planned to help you.

To help spread the word, there are several different handouts available:
Coloring Flyer (most appropriate for the Daisies and Brownies)
I Promised a Girl Scout Flyer (appropriate for all ages for later pickup)
On The Spot Flyer (appropriate for all ages for immediate pickup)



Troop drop-offs will be on March 19th at Town Hall from 10a.m.-12p.m.  Food Pantry tours will be available for those who would like to learn more about the North Reading Food Pantry!

March 6th is Girl Scout Sunday, March 12th is Girl Scout Sabbath

Girl Scout Sunday is being celebrated at houses of worship all around town.  Girls should attend their services in uniform and stick around for a photo following the service. See attached flyer for information pertaining to your specific house of worship!

Mass Audubon Programs

Just a reminder that the Mass Audubon offers some great programs for scouts...
Check them out at:  http://www.massaudubon.org/Scouts/

Rollerskating Event - 3/17/11

Mark your calendars for our annual Rollerskating Event - 3/17/11. This is an Elementary Early Release day... Please email the attached flyer to your troop as soon as you are able. You can find more info in this flyer.  The girls really enjoy this one!

Cookie Creations! Yummy Night Out!

Join Us for an Evening of Delightful Treats. Enjoy an epicurean evening with friends and colleagues while "raising some dough” for Girl Scouts. In celebration of the 2011 Girl Scout Cookie Sale, Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts is hosting three evenings of Cookie Creations. Tickets are just $30 each or 2/$50. Purchase tickets or sponsorships.  The flyer can be found here!



February 3, 2011, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Pine Hills Golf Club * Plymouth
February 10, 2011, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Hotel Commonwealth * Boston
February 16, 2011, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Danversport Yacht Club * Danvers

This fun event allows local chefs to show off their culinary talents as they serve up an original creation using one of the eight varieties of Girl Scout cookies. Special guest judges will determine “Best Overall Dessert” and attendees will award a “Crowd Favorite.” Guests will enjoy light appetizers, tastes of all the “Cookie Creations” and a wonderful silent auction and drawing.

Consider supporting this great event and the Girl Scout mission by registering today.
Please note that the Cookie Creations events are adult-only fundraisers that include a cash bar. The funds raised from these events will allow us to continue to provide exciting program for your girls! Thank you for all your help generating support for the very important Girl Scouts mission!

More information can be found at http://www.girlscoutseasternmass.org/donate/CookieCreations.html

Program Offerings at Methuen MSPCA

Here are another set of programs that might make your jobs as leaders easier...some offerings from the Methuen MSPCA!
http://www.mspca.org/adoption/methuen-nevins/education-programs/tour-programs-for-girl-scout.html

Leader Meeting Minutes - 1/11/11

Attendees: Service Unit (SU) Coordinator: Amy Kelly [71901,73897], SU Secretary: Debbie Nearing [73891], SU Recording Secretary: Alycia McGoldrick [73904], SU Registrar:Anne Valade, SU Cookie Coordinator: Kerstin March [71898], SU Treasurer: Julia Slavin [71872], GSEM Council Representative: Lora Goldenberg, Kristin Puliafico [85118], Nancy Quinn [73893]. Amanda Heffernan [71888], Sue Kirby [73899], Ruth Kennedy [73899], Kerry Lord [71889], Cindy Russell [73917], Melissa Grew [71896], Michelle Gwozdz [85120], Laura Wall [73903], Jan Sarno [71872/85121], Denise Forcellese [73901],

Items requiring attention are marked in red
ASAP!! Items requiring IMMEDIATE attention are preceded by "ASAP!" and marked in red

Intro/Announcements
● Meeting was called to order at 7:40 pm
● Pledge of Allegiance and the Girl Scout Promise were recited

Council Updates
● New delegate - Barbara Worley.  Her "passion" is training...
● Posting programming onto the blog as it becomes available.  Don't forget to check out the GSEM website - there are a lot of programs offered that can help you with meeting planning. [as an aside, Alycia will look into allowing you to opt in for notifications from the blog]
● Tax exempt forms are available through Council - if you need one, email Lora @ lgolderberg@girlscoutseasternmass.org


Adult Volunteer Recognition Nominations for GSEM & GSUSA
●  If you know someone (leader, co-leader, mom, cookie mom, etc...) that is going above and beyond for Scouts - consider nominating them for a recognition award
●  GSEM would like the submissions on-line:  http://www.girlscoutseasternmass.org/forms/volunteer-recognition-chart.pdf
● Deadline is 2/11
● Some nominations require endorsements (see link above for requirements)
● Can even self-nominate for certain recognitions!

Citizens Bank Update
●  $2 fee may have come through on your statement if you did not opt to go paperless. 
●  Jessica Federico (978-664-5581) at the branch next to Marshalls can credit the $2 fee if you go see or call her in January.  This will require you to opt to go paperless. 
●  To do this - click "go paperless" and then log in with you debit card # and the temporary password 3281.  The person logging in will become the superuser for the account and need to add in the other people that might need access to this account, e.g., co-leaders.

Cookie Update
●  1/21 is the last day for taking orders
●  Check in with your Cookie Advisor (some troops still missing info, bank info, advisor names, CORIs)
●  Kerstin has extra order forms if you need one. 
●  Kerstin is looking for help on the morning of 2/11 for the cookie delivery.  Contact her at march.family@verizon.net
●  List of Booth Sales is on the blog.  Note: troop activity forms are no longer required.  A simple form is used that is available on Quickbase.
ASAP! Deadline for requesting Council run booth sales throug Quickbase is Thursday 1/13.  These are the T-station and other public location sales.
●  Top seller incentives: Individuals will be entered into a drawing for a day/weekend event in Boston (~$500 value), Top troops will be entered into a drawing for a day/weekend event in Boston. 
Town incentive - town is entered into a drawing if we exceed last year's sale by 10% or more.
●  Remind your Cookie Advisor to deduct your profit ($.60 per box) before depositing cookie booth sale proceeds!
●  Fall product sale recognitions should have been distributed to troops by now.
ASAP! Bank of America customers - there is a fee that may kick in soon...Lora is going to look into this on Thursday 1/13 and try to get it waived.  If you are going to switch banks because of this - do it SOON!

Registration Update

●  North Reading is the first town in GSEM to meet its membership goal this year!
●  Brand new girls are still looking to be placed
●  Rosters being sent out from Council may not be as up-to-date as what Anne has.  If the Council roster doesn't match what you have, please double-check with Anne at annevalade@comcast.net
●  Starting in March, Leaders will be able to go in and see their own troop, make program payments on-line, etc...
●  If you know ladies who might want to be leaders, talk it up! We are going to need plenty of new leaders next year!

Miscellaneous

●  Reading Council for Girls is giving Camp Rice Moody to GSEM.  Before the transfer, they are trying to put up a pavillion.  They are also considering a memorial-type brick walkway to help fund camp upkeep.
●  Reading Council for Girls will be offering camperships again this summer - the criteria for award has not yet been determined.
●  NRGS was contacted by Dana Rowe of the Conservation Committee.  The Committee will be looking for Girl and Boy Scouts to help develop hiking trails in the Eisenhauer Pond area.  They are also looking for input on things that Scouts would like to see in town in these areas

Events
●  2/12 (tentative) - Game Night for Middle School and up
●  3/6 - Girl Scout Sunday.  Coordinators are the various churches: Sue Kirby at St. T's, Angela Danico at the Congo [unconfirmed], Sandy Griffin at Trinity [unconfirmed], Jan Wise at Aldersgate [unconfirmed]
●  3/17 - Friends and Family Rollerskating in Beverly.  This will be the Elementary School 1/2 day.
●  March is Food Pantry Month!  Julia Slavin's troop is working on this and considering new ways to up the donation/participation.
●  April - Father/Daughter Bowling for Juniors and Up
●  April Vacation Week - Gymnastics Event
●  May ? - Mother/Daughter Event for younger girls
●  Fitness Fun Day - stalled while waiting for Certification of Liability

Council Update

●  11/10-11/13 - National Convention...and they're looking for delegates!  Delegates must be 14 years or older - and all expenses are paid by Council.  Applications are due by 2/18.  For more info: http://www.girlscoutseasternmass.org/
●  2/16 - Cookie Creations in Danvers.  Local chefs create desserts from GS cookies!  6:30-8:30 pm, $30/person or $50/pair
●  New Journeys available for girls (required for medal awards) - "It's Your Story - Tell It!".  If you want to look at the new books, visit Lora at the Council office.

Next Meeting : 2/15/11, 7:30 PM, Town Hall 

Leader's Meeting Minutes - 11/16/10

Attendees: Service Unit (SU) Coordinator: Amy Kelly [71901,73897], SU Secretary: Debbie Nearing [73891], SU Recording Secretary: Alycia McGoldrick [73904], SU Event Coordinator: Angela Danico [71886], SU Registrar:Anne Valade, SU Cookie Coordinator: Kerstin March [71898],  SU Treasurer: Julia Slavin [71872], Little School Organizer: Barbara Gravel [71876], Batch School Organizer: Michelle Rosenthal [71902,71896], Denise Costantino [71865], Lisa Quaratiello [71884], Amanda Heffernan [71888], Michelle Gwozdz [85120], Kristin Puliafico [85118], Denise Forcellese [73901], Christie Perrone [73898], Sue Kirby [73899], Janice Gulbicki [71905], Sandra Griffin [71900], Laura Wall [73903], Janelyn Wise [73894], Kerry Lord [71889]


Items requiring attention are marked in red
ASAP!! Items requiring IMMEDIATE attention are preceded by "ASAP!" and marked in red

Intro/Announcements
- Meeting was called to order at 7:45 pm
- An Investiture Ceremony was performed to welcome the following new leaders:  Denise Costantino, Lynn Landers, Mary Davis, Kristine Pecora, Kristin Pulicafico, Mary Pierce, Janie Giunta, Michelle Gwozdz, Patti Harrington, Jennifer Dee...welcome aboard! 

Registration Update
- 70 new girl registrations this fall
- 5 new K-Daisy troops, 1 new 1st-Daisy troop
- Check your troop rosters.  If you don't see a girl on your roster, check with Anne Valade.  For cookie purposes, you can add girls to the database but cannot delete them.  If you have girls on your roster who are not active - they will show up in your cookie database - see Anne, she will turn them into Juliettes.

New Daisy Leader Guidebooks are available through Amy.  These books are a collection of things from trainings, sample meeting ideas, coloring sheets, and other resources to help with new troop startup!

Events
- Alycia presented the Event Guidelines
- Further advice from people who have planned events - Keep your deadlines in mind!  You'll always get stragglers and people calling the day of to attend.  You need to hold firm otherwise you'll stress out about supplies, space, etc...  Leaders and parents need to learn that deadlines are deadlines!  Besides - what kind of a lesson does it teach the girls when we basically let people cut the line.
- Once girls are registered scouts, even if their troop has not met yet, they can go to events (townwide or even Council events).
- All events should be offered/presented to the girls even if you (the leader) can't go.  Some other registered mom can step in and help out.
- Council events are up on the GSEM website - and updated more regularly than the once yearly booklet.

Upcoming Events
Daisy/Brownie Father/Daughter Field Day - 11/20
- 83 Girls have signed up so far!
- Registration officially closed on 11/10

Nutcracker - NR School of Ballet - 12/4
- At the Collins Center at Andover High School
- Not a Friends and Family Event
- Limited number of $15 tickets available for 12/4 3pm and 7pm shows to Scouts and their chaperones
- Orders need to be back to Mary Lasdin by 11/23
- A single check from the troop should be written to Albany Berkshire Ballet

Healthtime Fitness - Stay Fit, Stay Healthy, Have Fun - 1/23/11
- For Daisies, Brownies, Juniors...but will be limited to 30 girls
- Daisies 1-2:30 pm, Brownies & Juniors 3:30-5 pm
- Will involve dancing, cardio kickboxing, health, and nutrition
- Info/flyer will be posted on the blog

Parent/Daughter Game Night - for Juniors and up - January
- Watch for info on the blog

Past Events
Halloween Party
- Kids had a blast - seemed even better than last year
- Did have unregistered kids show up AT THE DOOR!  This was VERY stressful for the organizers and they don't want to be the bad guy and turn a girl away - BUT they are left scrambling for supplies and making sure that they are all set with Adult/girl ratios, snacks, insurance, etc...

Service Projects
Christian Community Service Tags
- In NR, there are 35 families in need of "toiletry gift bags".  NRGS is helping with these by taking a tag that represents one of these families and providing a bag back.
- Bags need to be returned by 12/13 to Union Congregational (details are on the tag)
- Tags are still available through Debbie Nearing

Family Services of Greater Boston Tags
- Kathleen Breslin presented take a tags for Family Services of Greater Boston.  This organization provides gifts of essentials and toys to families living in shelters, low income housing, etc..
- These gifts need to be dropped off, UNWRAPPED, to Kathleen by 12/8
- To get tags from Kathleen, contact her at kathleenbreslin@verizon.net
- To learn more about the organization, go to http://www.fsgb.org/
- Gift wrap donations are welcomed - but don't wrap the gift!  The gift must be exactly as indicated on the mitten as the recipient will not be able to exchange it.

Blog Update
- Postcards with the blog address were sent to every registered family.  New registrants will receive one once we get the update list from Council.
- Feedback is welcome.  Email anyone on the Service Team with comments, suggestions, complaints, etc...

Treasury Update
- Budget for the year - SO FAR - in good shape
- Reminder that Girl Scouts is a tax-exempt organization.  If you need a tax-exempt form with which to do your scout supply shopping, email Amy Kelly.
- Bank update: Every Citizens customer with a green checking account got the letter talking about new fees.  GSEM troop accounts should be listed as non-profits.  If you get listed as a non-profit, there are no fees.  All Citizens Bank NR Girl Scout accounts that could be identified have been changed to non-profit.  If you find that you are still getting charged, go to the branch next to Marshalls and see Jessica - she knows how to fix this.

Fall Product Update
- Fall product is coming in on 11/19; pickup on 11/20
- 7 troops participated, sold ~$3000 worth of product
- VERY easy to do, and lucrative.  Troops should keep this in mind for next year.

Cookie Update
- Cookie training is on 11/23 at the Library Activity Room from 7-8:30pm
- Booth Sales and door to door selling starts on 12/10/10
- Kerstin still needs cookie advisors for several troops!!
- Kits will be distributed on 11/23.  Check the number of girls in your kit - if this is wrong, contact Anne Valade
- Booth sale forms are due at the meeting - remind your cookie advisors.  Forms can be dropped off at Kerstin's, but early drop-off does not mean early assignment of Booth Sale date
- Cookie sales are optional at the Daisy level, however - if you want your girls to sell, set their goal at 15 boxes per girl.  This is the level which will get them a patch.
- T-shirts will be awarded at the 100 box level
- Hanscom cookie drop already closed to new registrants!  Girls can still collect cookies for the troop and bring them to the North Andover office.
- Delivery to town will be 2/11/11

Meeting called to a close at 8:55 pm

New Helpful Links!

We added 3 new helpful links for you today:
- Badge in a Bag: this is a useful site if you're really stuck on how to get going...all the planning work for a badge has been done for you and you just have to do the activities with the girls
- Making Friends: lots of crafts here
- Scouting Web: more help for those getting started or just needing a little inspiration

So...we hope these little additions are helpful.  If you run across a website that you want to share - just send it to any of the Service Team members and we'll get it put up on the blog for all to see!