Upcoming Events

UPCOMING EVENTS
Next Leader Meeting in Feb - TBD

Friday, December 28, 2012

Friends and Family Ice Skating - Feb 20th

NRGS presents Friends and Family Ice Skating
Where: Burbank Arena
When: February 20th, 12:30-2:30
Cost: $5 per participate (skates available at additional cost)
See attached flyer for more info

Math Event for Girls in 6th-10th

From MIT:
Girls' Angle and MIT's Undergraduate Society of Women in Mathematics (USWIM) are collaborating to bring you SUMit 2013.
SUMiT is a fully collaborative, math intensive event for girls. SUMiT 2013 is the second installment of SUMiT. SUMiT 2012 took place on January 21, 2012 at MIT and received an average overall rating of 10 out of 10 from participants!

This year, 6-10th grade girls from a wide range of mathematical backgrounds will come together in a one day mathematical extravaganza. They will join forces to tackle a wide array of tantalizing and engaging math problems as they strive toward a common goal. If they succeed, they will earn magnificent prizes.

SUMiT has grown out of the traditional end-of-semester Treasure Hunt at Girls' Angle. Together, Girls’ Angle and MIT’s Undergraduate Society for Women in Mathematics (USWIM) have created SUMiT to bring this fun-filled event out of the Girls' Angle club to the general public.

SUMiT is different from every other math extracurricular event in the United States. It creates a community of young women excited about mathematics, inspires young girls’ enthusiasm in math without competition and shows them the power of cooperation towards a shared purpose.

Newtown Memorial Service

Girl Scouts across the nation are being encouraged to write down thoughts, prayers or art in the shape of the Girl Scout trefoil. In mid-January they will be presented to the Newtown Service Unit during a memorial service.
You may send them directly to the GS Hartford Service Center, c/o Trefoil Project, 340 Washington St. Hartford, CT 06106.  Please try to make sure that they arrive by January 9th to be included in the presentation.
Trefoil templates are attached here:  trefoil 2per, trefoil 11x17

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

All Girl Scout Night at Battleship Cove

Battleship Cove has scheduled April 5th 2013 as an ALL GIRL SCOUT NIGHT!

Come sleep in authentic crew bunks, eat in the original Officer's Wardroom, help solve problems that the crew faced over 50 years ago, practice knot tying and more. 

This year, a former service woman is coming to speak to the girls about her experiences in the military.

The flyer with more information can be found here.  Or visit www.battleshipcove.org

GSEM is seeking older girls for Board of Directors

From Council:
"GSEM is seeking Girl Scouts, ages 14-17, to serve on the council's Board of Directors for a one-year term.  This is an exciting way to be part of the ciritical decisions that will determine the future of GSEM.  As a member of the Board, you will learn about governance - how a board creates policies and makes decisions - and you will get to take an active role in how that happens.  You will meet and work with some interesting and influential people and you will have an opportunity to make sure that those people hear from you.  Being on the Board requires a time commitment and taking responsibility, but with it comes great reward.
Each year, four older girls (ages 14-17) are elected to the Board as full-voting members, contributing their input and perspective to the policy issues that the Board decides on.
This is a great leadership opportunity for older girls as it offers extensive experience working in partnership with the adult board members to make a difference in how the council is governed.  And -- it's a great college application/resume builder.
Interested?  Want to apply?  Applications, resume, and letters of reference are due to Council by January 23, 2013.  Interviews will be held at Cedar Hill on Saturday, February 2.  Here's the application link:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/girlboardapp2013"

Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Caroling at Wingate - 12/12/12

North Reading Girl Scouts have been invited to Christmas Carol at Wingate Nursing Home in Reading (1364 Main St., Reading) on Wednesday, December 12th from 4:-5 p.m. 
This is a sibling friendly event!!! 
We have the words to the Carols (electronically) and will send to anyone who requests them. 
If you're planning on going - please let Donna Gonzalez know - email her at donnagonzalez@verizon.net!
If you have any questions about the Caroling, please contact Kate Mahoney at mahoney57@verizon.net
This is not a drop off event and kids must be supervised! 
So warm up those pipes and get ready to bring some cheer to some of our older residents!
 

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Father/Daughter Sports Event - 2/9, K-5th

The popular Father Daughter Sports Event returns on February 9th!



This event is geared for girls in K-5th grade and a significant adult.
Session 1: 10am-noon
Session 2: 1-3pm
Price: $15 per couple, $7 for each additional girl


Games, snack, and patch included
Flyer can be found here - due back at next Leader's meeting (1/15)

Update to Regal Shopping Night - 12/5

December 5th, 6-8 pm @ Celebration Kingdom on Concord Street
Come get a jump on your holiday shopping while your kids play!
Vendors include:
Thirtyone(Purses & Handbags)- www.mythirtyone.com/116482
Pampered Chef www.pamperedchef.biz/lisalloyd
Lia Sophia Jewelry www.liasophia.com
Nerium AD (Real Results Anti-Aging Cream) www.juliaslavin.nerium.com
Tastefully Simple www.tastefullysimple.com
Tupperware www.my.tupperware.com/lindaabruen
Mary Kay www.marykay.com/tfoley
Usborne Books www.usborne.com
Hand Knitted Gifts

Cost is $8 per girl and all proceeds will benefit North Reading Girl Scout programming.

More details can be found in the attached updated flyer.  Spread the word!  This should be a nice way to socialize, get started on your shopping, and earn a little money to support scouting events in North Reading!

Fall Product Sales Position Open

Another great opportunity to get involved with North Reading Girl Scouts has opened up - Fall Product Sales Coordinator!
If you are thinking about getting more involved or have a parent who wants to get more involved - this opening is a great way to "dip your toe into the water"!

Interested folk should contact Amy Kelly at kellys@majekelly.com

Merrimack College Hockey Scout Night - 11/30 @ 7:30 pm

Merrimack College Hockey Fans,
Make sure to join us this Friday for the Warriors home contest at Lawler Arena against Providence College at 7:30pm. In honor of local scouts, all boy scouts and girl scouts in uniform will receive $5 admission tickets when dressed in their scout uniform.

You can also book your group outing or catered event before a Warriors game this season by clicking here or calling the box office (978-837-5324) Monday through Friday, 10:00am - 4:00pm. Even get a chance to skate with your youth team on the ice during intermission!

A GREAT HOLIDAY GIFT:
Half-Season Ticket Packages ($149) that include 10 Hockey East games (2 vs. BC), preferred center-ice seating and a holiday gift are now available through the box office (978-837-5324).

Individual Game Tickets / Promotional Calendar / Groups & Birthday Parties / Join the Jr. Warriors for $15

GO WARRIORS!

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Holiday Shopping Night POSTPONED!

Wednesday's Holiday Shopping Night has been postponed due to the incoming Nor'easter. 

As a reminder - this event is open to all Leaders and Parents and is intended to be a social event as well as a way to browse some items for sale (and maybe get some things crossed off your shopping lists)!

When this event has been rescheduled, we will let you know!

Thursday, October 18, 2012

Leader's Meeting Minutes - 10/16/12

Attendees: Service Unit (SU) Coordinator: Amy Kelly [73897, 71901], SU Secretary: Debbie Nearing [73891], SU Treasurer: Julia Slavin []SU Recording Secretary: Alycia McGoldrick [73904], SU Cookie Coordinator: Kerstin March [71898], Kristin Puliafico [85118], Stephanie Musgrave [71868], Lisa Coroa-Bockley [85121], Ruth Kennedy [73899], Karen Mericantante [85335], Kristin Lamont [71880], Debbie Aalto [71880, 85337], Sue Kirby [73899], Christine MacInnis [71900], Dawn Gonthier [ 71890], Patti Harrington [85122]

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 7:38 pm.  Pledge and promise were recited.
Early Bird patches were available for those that re-registered their troops last June.

Ultimate Program Guides were available for those that did not receive them in the mail - same info is available on-line.

Council Updates
Sue Asselin from GSEM joined to let us know about things:

Wednesday Webinars are new to GSEM for Leaders. The webinar is free, but registration is required. Each webinar will run from 12-1 p.m. and be repeated from 7-8 p.m.
Nov 14 - Include All Girls: Inclusion Strategies and Resources
Dec 19 - This is Not Your Mother's Cookie Sale!
Jan 16 - Volunteer Recognitions: The Who, What, How and Why of it

Don't forget to sign your Volunteer Agreement on-line!  As part of signing this, you'll be asked to sign the Comprehensive Information Security Program agreement (CISP).  This states that you will help GSEM keep people's information secure.

Copies are available with the Volunteer Agreement.  Or you can find it here
http://www.girlscoutseasternmass.org/forms/CISP-Volunteer-Summary.pdf

Keep in mind that Sue is a great resource.  Have a question?  email her at sasselin@girlscoutseasternmass.org or call at 978-689-8015.  If she doesn't know the answer, she'll find someone who does!

Council Programs Juliette's Tea Party - open to all ages.
November 4th, 12-1:30 or 2:30 -4 @ Camp Rice Moody.  Have tea, finger sandwiches and dessert with Juliette Low's great-great niece.  $15/couple.  Register by 10/27.  Flyer is here.

Stand Up 2012 - 6th-12th
November 29th, 8 am-1pm @ Tsongas Center. Take a stand against bullying.  Join others in discussions, idea exchanges and action plan development.  Last year more than 4000 youth participated (this is not limited to Scouts).  Free.  More information and on-line registration at www.StandUptoBullying.org

GS Night at the Celtics - open to all ages
January 14th, 7:30 @ TD Garden.  Balcony seats are available for a reduced Scout rate of $43.  Email your order to shutchinson@celtics.com.

How The Grinch Stole Christmas - open to all ages
11/23-12/9 @ Wang Theatre.  Scout friends and family save up to 50%.  For more info, contact Grinch Group Tickets at 617-532-1116 or email groups@citicenter.org and mention Girl Scouts of Eastern Mass.

Family Night at the Worcester Sharks Hockey
January 19th, 7 pm.  It's also bobble head night for the kids.  To register for this, visit www.girlscoutseasternmass.org/programs

STEM - Teen Career Expo - 6th-12th
10/28, 9am-4pm, Framingham.  Discover what you can do at a day long Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Expostition for girls.  To register for this, visit www.girlscoutseasternmass.org/programs

Cadette Media Journey in a Weekend
11/30-12/1.  Complete the entire Media Journey in a weekend.  $35 per girl includes awards, food and lodging.  For more information contact Nina Garcia nina@nitroy.com

Registration Update
Keep an open mind about taking more girls.  We still haven't placed everyone in troops - and we don't want to have to turn away girls who want to participate!

Town Events
Halloween Party 10/21, 3-5 p.m. at the Moose Lodge. Cost is $8 per girl. Open to all ages, but typically Daisies, Brownies and Juniors. This is a drop-off event and pre-registration is required! Forms due back at the next Leader's meeting and this is a firm deadline!! Flyer is here

Trick or Treating at Wingate
Wingate Nursing Home is having a trick or treat event on 10/24/2012 from 4-5pm.
They wanted to invite all NRGS and siblings to come in costume and trick or treat!
They did ask us to RSVP to
donnagonzelez@verizon.net so they can be sure to have enough candy for all!!!:) All kids and siblings are welcome, either troops or individuals.
This is NOT a drop-off event!


Holiday Shopping Night at Celebration Kingdom
November 6th, 6-8 pm @ Celebration Kingdom on Concord Street
Come get a jump on your holiday shopping while your kids play!

Cost is $8 per girl and all proceeds will benefit North Reading Girl Scout programming.  Flyer is here

World Thinking Day - February
We are looking for someone to step forward and spearhead this event! If interested, please contact Amy at kellys@majekelly.com

Ice Skating Event - January
We are looking for someone to step forward and spearhead this event! If interested, please contact Amy at kellys@majekelly.com

Poconos Trip for Juniors and up 3/8-10 or 4/5-7 to Woodloch Resort.  The town will set the date after the November meeting. 3/8 is an early release day which will allow troops to get an early start. Cost to be about $149/per person per night. Cost includes 3 meals a day and lodging for 4 people per room. Activities include: nightly entertainment, bumper cars, go carts, indoor pool, Wii game room, rock climbing and badge earning activities (Cupcake Wars, Scavenger Hunt, Beading, Name That Tune, Family Fued, Zumba). The Girl Council is looking into arranging buses to help with the cost and ease of attending.
Check out www.woodloch.com for more info.
If you want to go some other (non-scout) weekend, the price stays the same.

Cookie Update
The cookies are coming!  The cookies are coming!
Don't forget to recruit a Cookie Advisor (Cookie Mom) or two!
In-town Cookie Advisor training will be scheduled soon - likely to be the week of Thanksgiving.  If you know that your Cookie Advisor won't be able to make the training, Council trainings are starting to be posted up at www.girlscoutseasternmass.org

Service Unit Update
This will be Amy's last year as Service Unit Coordinator. If you are interested (or think you might be), please contact Amy: kellys@majekelly.com.

This will be Alycia's last year as Recording Secretary and Blogger. If you are interested (or think you might be), please contact Alycia: alycia.mcgoldrick@gmail.com.

This will be Anne's last year as Registrar.  If you are interested (or think you might be), please contact Anne: anne.valade@comcast.net

Want to check out the Service Team before you volunteer for anything? The next meeting will be posted in the Monday email and anyone is welcome to attend.
We did talk about the sparse attendance at these meetings (in contrast to the higher attendance at the June social meeting) and trying to find time for more Leader Social Events.  As there is no December meeting - we may try to do a December Leader Social Event instead...that way Leaders can meet each other and share ideas!

Next Leaders Meeting is 11/27, 7:30 p.m. at Town Hall, Room 14
The November meeting is New Leader Investiture. 
Experienced Leaders are encouraged to bring their outgrown or excess supplies to help kick-start the new troops.

Sunday, October 14, 2012

Holiday Shopping Night at Celebration Kingdom

November 6th, 6-8 pm @ Celebration Kingdom on Concord Street
Come get a jump on your holiday shopping while your kids play!
 
Vendors include:
Thirtyone(Purses & Handbags)- www.mythirtyone.com/116482
Pampered Chef www.pamperedchef.biz/lisalloyd
Lia Sophia Jewelry www.liasophia.com
Nerium AD (Real Results Anti-Aging Cream) www.juliaslavin.nerium.com
Tastefully Simple www.tastefullysimple.com
Tupperware www.my.tupperware.com/lindaabruen
Mary Kay www.marykay.com/tfoley
Usborne Books www.usborne.com
Hand Knitted Gifts

Cost is $8 per girl and all proceeds will benefit North Reading Girl Scout programming.

More details can be found in the attached flyer

Trick or Treating at Wingate - 10/24/12

Wingate Nursing Home is having a trick or treat event on 10/24/2012 from 4-5pm.
They wanted to invite all NRGS and siblings to come in costume and trick or treat!
They did ask us to RSVP to donnagonzelez@verizon.net so they can be sure to have enough candy for all!!!:)  All kids and siblings are welcome, either troops or individuals. 
This is NOT a drop-off event!

Thursday, October 11, 2012

CADETTE MEDIA JOURNEY IN A WEEKEND 11/30-12/1

How would you like to complete the Media Journey including three leadership badges, all in one weekend?

Join us for an overnight lodge stay at Cedar Hill in Waltham, MA on
Friday, November 30, 5pm - Saturday, December 1, 4pm
to complete the Cadette Media Journey. This workshop is for Cadettes who would like to complete the Media Journey in its entirety taking an important step toward the Silver Award. During the workshops, girls will learn about media, focusing on their interests and desires to make a positive change in the way they use media in their own lives. Cadettes will become aware of the value of media, its limitations and effect and the power they have to lead and inspire others. The Media Journey includes the opportunity to earn three important leadership awards related to the facets of monitoring, influencing, and cultivating media.

This program is sponsored by Belmont Troop 71911 and is open to Cadette troops in Massachusetts. Journey books, awards, food and lodging is included in the cost of $35.
For more information contact Nina García <nina@nitroy.com>

Wednesday Webinars - Healthy, Fit and Fun - 10/17

Join GSEM volunteers
Kathleen Searles and Danielle Ouellette Dulchinos in our Healthy, Fit and Fun Wednesday Webinar. Kathleen and Danielle will discuss ways to motivate and inspire girls to get moving, will present healthy snack tips for your meetings and events and will look at the badges, Journey resources and GSEM programs that make getting healthy and staying healthy a whole lotta fun for you and your girls!
October 17, 12:00 noon and 7:00pm REGISTER.    
Last day to register is 10/15.
Sign Up. Sign On. Learn.
Kathleen Searles is a GSEM volunteer from the Bayberry Service Unit and is a nutrition consultant. You can find more information about Kathleen at http://www.lunchbox-nutritionist.com/.
Danielle Ouellette Dulchinos is a GSEM Council Facilitator and self described adventure seeker and all around active person. She runs, she lifts, she does yoga! And, she knows that true fitness and health comes out of a balance between activity and recovery.

Saturday, October 6, 2012

S.T.E.M. Event for Teens

GSEM is hosting a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Teen Career Expo
When: Sunday October 28th, 2012
Time: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Where: Sheraton Tara, Framingham
Cost: $35/girl

This event is for girls in grades 6-12 to learn about STEM careers.  This is limited to girls, but not just Girl Scouts!  There are different program offerings to choose from so that they can tailor their day.
The flyer is here.

Veteran's Day Event - 11/11/12 at 11 a.m.

Save the Date for your troop!

Veteran's Day Service Event - 11/11/12 at 11 a.m.

 
The Veterans Day Committee has once again invited us to attend and participate in the ceremony being held on Sunday, November 11th.  If your troop or any of your girls are interested in participating, please contact Susan Magner at 978-357-5212 ASAP
 
If your troop doesn't want an active role, Girl Scouts are still encouraged to show up in uniform. Just showing up in uniform means so much to those attending the ceremony - it demonstrates that we are teaching our children to respect those who have served this country.
 
Look for more info in the North Reading Transcript!

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Pumpkin Carvers Needed for the 18th Annual Haunted Playground!

We were asked to spread the word for the 2012 Haunted Playground...

"Pumpkin Carvers Needed!

It's that time of year again, when a chill in the air means Fall is coming and also time for pumpkin carving for the Haunted Playground. We need Pumpkin Carver Volunteers for the 18th Annual Haunted Playground to be held on Oct. 20th from 5:30 - 9pm! Let me know if you are interested and what your name, address, and how many pumpkins you want to carve and I’ll drop off the pumpkins a week before the event. If you have any brownies, scouts, pixies, or hobgoblin troops that wish to carve, please let me know how many will be carving and if you need them by any special date. I’ll give you some additional information as I get the responses.
There will be awards given out for for best carvings for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place (really nice trophies!). The event will be judged right before the haunted playground gets started by Pumpkin Pete himself!

Scariest Regards,

Pumpkin Pete!"


Pumpkin Pete can be contacted at peterbrayton@verizon.net

Thursday, September 20, 2012

Math MovesU - 10/21/12

GSEM has put together a full day event for Juniors and Cadettes that focuses on hands-on activities that use math. 
"Learn about different types of careers, participate in hands-on activities and have fun! "
These workshops will be led by women in industry and academia. 

Who: Scouts in 4th-8th grade
When: October 21, 2012  9:30 a.m-4 p.m.
Where: Middlesex Community College, Bedford
Cost: $20 - includes lunch
Deadline for registration is October 7th

Flyer is here

Haunted Halloween Party - 10/21/12

Calling all Ghoul Scouts! It's a Haunted Halloween Party!

Who: All ages
When: October 21, 3-5 pm
Where: Moose Lodge
Cost: $8

Registration is due to you leader by October 16th. THIS IS A HARD DEADLINE!!
This is a DROP-OFF event!
Flyer is here

Leader Meeting Minutes - 9/18/12

Attendees: Service Unit (SU) Coordinator: Amy Kelly [73897, 71901], SU Secretary: Debbie Nearing [73891], SU Recording Secretary: Alycia McGoldrick [73904], SU Cookie Coordinator: Kerstin March [71898], Lisa Alexander [85193], Cheryl Carr [71888], Jan Wise [73894], Susanne Rech [85336], Kristin Lamont [85193, 81880], Janice Gulbicki [71905], Karen McCullough [71905], Ruth Kennedy [73899], Christine MacInnis [71900], Stephanie Musgrave [71868], Kate Mahoney [71868], Barbara Duff [71902], Michelle Rosenthal [71902]

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 7:30 pm!  Pledge and promise were recited.
Early Bird patches were available for those that re-registered their troops last June.

Ultimate Program Guides were available for those that did not receive them in the mail - same info is available on-line.

Service Unit Housekeeping
Registration update - If you haven't registered for the upcoming year, to do so as the Leader you must complete it by 9/29.  After that date, parents will have to individually register their girls.
If you have girls transferring into or out of your troop - they must first be registered with their current troop.  Transfer then need to happen through the Registrar - Anne Valade.  She can be contacted at annevalade@comcast.net
Anne has agreed to stay on as the Registrar since we don't have anyone to take her place, but technically the position is open.  She would love to have someone shadow her before she steps down.  The paperwork portion has fundamentally gone away and the focus is on placing girls into troops after Fall and Spring registrations.

Don't forget to fill out the Troop Volunteer Agreement Form (on-line), if you didn't do so when you registered.  This is required each year!

Also need Little and Batch school coordinators.  This job primarily involves recruiting new Daisy leaders, and forming new Daisy troops.  This also primarily happens after Fall and Spring registrations.

There will be a new Scout Registration Event on Friday 9/28 from 6-7:30 at Celebration Kingdom on Concord Street.  The event is open to all ages and the girls can bounce while their parents register them - spread the word to those who might be interested!

This will be Amy's last year as Service Unit Coordinator.  If you are interested (or think you might be), please contact Amy: kellys@majekelly.com.

This will be Alycia's last year as Recording Secretary and Blogger.  If you are interested (or think you might be), please contact Alycia: alycia.mcgoldrick@gmail.com.

Want to check out the Service Team before you volunteer for anything? The next meeting will be posted in the Monday email and anyone is welcome to attend.

Annual Troop Finance reports and a copy of the most recent bank statement are due by October 1st if you did not turn yours in at June's Leader meeting.  Forms can be found on-line at www.girlscoutseasternmass.org/forms.
 
Council Updates
There are many religious awards and program available to girls through council.  Check out the info on-line.

Girl Scout of Eastern Massachusetts (GSEM) has been selected as a Boston Marathon Charity Partner.  This means that GSEM has received 15 Marathon entries.  Entrants do not need a qualifying time, but will be required to raise at least $4,000.  Applications will be accepted beginning in September and more info should be posted shortly.

S.H.A.R.E. is still being collected - and we are close to our goal.  There are envelopes available if you still need them.  Towns that meet their goal are eligible for up to 10% back to the Service Unit.

Volunteer Essentials and Safety Activity Checkpoints have been updated.  You can find these in the Resource Library and Forms section of the website. 

Wednesday Webinars are new to GSEM for Leaders.  The webinar is free, but registration is required.  Each webinar will run from 12-1 p.m. and be repeated from 7-8 p.m.
Sept 19 - The Quick and Easy Guide to the Fall Product Sale
Oct 17 - Healthy, Fit and Fun!
Nov 14 - Include All Girls: Inclusion Strategies and Resources
Dec 19 - This is Not Your Mother's Cookie Sale!
Jan 16 - Volunteer Recognitions: The Who, What, How and Why of it

Don't forget that Activity Forms are now online and are required for risky activities that are not council run.  Check the Safety Activity Checkpoints to determine if one is needed.

The 2012 Fall Training Calendar is now on the GSEM website.  Registrations close one week prior to the training. 

The Girl Scout Shops in Middleboro, North Andover, and Waltham are looking for volunteers.  If you are interested, contact Erin Olsson at eolsson@girlscoutseasternmass.org

Sue Asselin from GSEM joined to give an update on a policy change for the 2013/2014 year going forward.  At the 2011 Convention, it was decided that councils can charge a council program fee at registration.  This program fee will go towards program development, camp maintainance, scholarships, training, etc.
For the 2013/2014 registration year - the program fee with be $10 and the registration fee will increase to $15.
There was a question about whether S.H.A.R.E. will continue as this fee supports the same things.  Sue will get back to us on that.  If you have any questions about this fee, contact sue at sasselin@girlscoutseasternmass.org.

Town Update
The Service Team has decided that for this year, the focus will be on fewer Service Team run events.  There will still be a few that serve to fund the Town-wide Fly-ups, but any others will try to focus on the "back to basics" of scouting.  Rough idea of the year's calendar:
Sept - older girl camping, Registration event
Oct - Halloween party
Nov - Father/Daughter Event (Square dancing or Sports event - Cheryl Carr going to see if her troop is interested in running this again), Celebration Kingdom Holiday Shopping event - kids can bounce while parents shop the vendors on-site
Dec - Christian Community Service Take a Tag
Jan - MLK Day Ice Skating
Feb - World Thinking Day Event - Theme: Together We Can Save the Children.  Will plan on forming a committee at the next Leader's meeting
Mar - Poconos trip
Apr - Gymnastics event

Past Events
Older Girl Encampment: Sept 7-9, a small group of older girls went camping at Camp Favorite down at the Cape.  The weather was beautiful and the girls had a great time canoeing and swimming.  The attendance was lighter than anticipated and if you signed up but didn't end up going, there will be an additional payment required to help cover the cost of the unused sites.  Kerstin will contact you.

Future Events
Registration Event - Friday 9/28 from 6-7:30 at Celebration Kingdom on Concord Street. The event is open to all ages and the girls can bounce while their parents register them - spread the word to those who might be interested!

Halloween Party 10/21, 3-5 p.m. at the Moose Lodge.  Cost is $8 per girl.  Open to all ages, but typically Daisies, Brownies and Juniors.  This is a drop-off event and pre-registration is required!  Forms due back at the next Leader's meeting and this is a firm deadline!!  Flyer is here

Poconos Trip for Juniors and up 3/8-10 to Woodloch Resort.  There will be more information but we wanted to get you talking about this early.  3/8 is an early release day which will allow troops to get an early start.  Cost to be about $149/per person per night.  Cost includes 3 meals a day and lodging for 4 people per room.  Activities include: nightly entertainment, bumper cars, go carts, indoor pool, Wii game room, rock climbing and badge earning activities (Cupcake Wars, Scavenger Hunt, Beading, Name That Tune, Family Fued, Zumba).  The Girl Council is looking into arranging buses to help with the cost and ease of attending.
Check out www.woodloch.com for more info.  Amy will post her daughter's .ppt presentation that was shared at the June Leader's meeting.

Fall Product Sales
Shauna Wagner came to kick off the Fall Product Sale.
Sale runs 9/28-10/28.
Troops receive 15% of product sales.  Cadettes and up can opt out of recognitions and receive 17% of product sales.
Theme: What can a Girl Do?, mascot is a flamingo.
There are magazines and candy and nut options.  It was pointed out that the magazine sale duplicates the Middle School fundraiser and the candy and nuts duplicate the Little school fundraiser - however the Fall Product Sale options are dictated by GSUSA and we don't have a choice on what we sell.
The order entry system is the same as that used by the Cookie sale, but the login will be different.
If you want to participate in the Fall Sale, contact Shauna Wagner six.wags@hotmail.com
Products are delivered before Thanksgiving...perfect timing for holiday gifts! 

Next Leaders Meeting is 10/16, 7:30 p.m. at Town Hall, Room 14

Sunday, August 26, 2012

Leader Meeting Dates 2012-2013

The following are the dates for 2012-13 Leader Meetings:
September 18
October 16
November 27
January 15
February 12
March 19
April 23
May 21
June 18

We hope to see all of you there to share your ideas with others and get your questions and concerns answered by other experienced leaders!

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Fancy Nancy Daisy Event - 5/24

Calling all Daisies!
Join your friends in an afterschool Fancy Nancy event with a story, activities, a snack, and a patch!
When: 5/24/12, 4-5:30
Where: NRHS Cafeteria
Cost: $8 per girl

See flyer for complete details

Friday, May 4, 2012

Arbor Day Event in the Transcript!


What a beautiful day - and a great turn-out for this Garden Club event!  I see leader (and Garden Club member) Ruth Kennedy's smiling face there in the background...thanks for putting this together for us!

Wednesday, May 2, 2012

Younger Girl Encampment - Check out some great photos of smiling faces!

The weather cooperated for the Younger Girl "Back to Basics" Encampment and the girls had great fun with all of the activities.

A note from Encampment Director Kerstin March:
"We had a glorious day and chilly evening, but everyone went home with all fingers and toes intact, no frostbite reported. It was a busy day, and I appreciated the good humor of all when faced with a few last-minute location changes due to one of our sites being in use until later in the day.

I thank all of the girls and leaders and parents who came and took part with enthusiasm and energy and I hope that you enjoyed it as much as I did! I also thank all the parents for allowing your girls to come and try camping.
I'd especially like to thank the following people who helped make it a success:
My Co-Director, Deb Nearing, who did a lot of behind-the-scenes prep work and gave me plenty of guidance.
Our committee; Amy Kelly, Susan West, Kristin Lamont, Barbara Gravel, Julia Slavin...loads of good ideas and advice.
Our junior volunteers; Katherine Lasdin, my girl Friday, Daisy ringleader and song mistress; Jessica Kelly, stealth clue planter extraordinaire and chief patch sorter; Keanna Lamont, huge helper for her mom's two troops; Lucy March and Frankie Elliott, gimpers and sing-along support for Katherine.
Barbara Gravel, who designed and fabricated the fabulous scavenger hunt.
Anne Valade, who helped with hiding the clues and was the Four Winds fire pit expert.
Mary Lasdin and Amy Kelly, who helped out whenever needed, especially with fire pit coverage.
Nurse Carrie Bryk, who was kept busy all day and still managed to have a great time.
To Troop 71872 and 73950 for officiating with the Opening and Closing Ceremonies!"

Here are some photos for you to enjoy!

Tuesday, May 1, 2012

Laserquest Fun!


The scouts (and friends) who attend Laserquest had a great time during vacation week!  As a Leader, make your life easier by taking advantage of programs that are planned for you (either through town, or through Council)!

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Leaders Meeting Minutes - 4/11/12

Attendees: Service Unit (SU) Coordinator: Amy Kelly [73897, 71901], SU Recording Secretary: Alycia McGoldrick [73904], Little School Coordinator Barbara Gravel [71876], SU Cookie Coordinator: Kerstin March [71898], SU Registrar Anne Valade, Karen McCullough [71905], Sue Kirby [73899], Janice Gulbicki [71905], Lisa Alexander [85014/Stoneham], Karen Mericantante [85335], Susanne Rech [85336], Sandy Griffin [71900], Kristin Lamont [85193, 71880], Susan West [73950]
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

Council Updates
New and updated program information can be found at http://www.girlscoutseasternmass.org/
including updated information on the 100th Anniversary Camporee.

Spring Registration is open on-line at http://www.girlscoutseasternmass.org/aboutus/member-reg.html.
If there is someone who is not on your troop roster but should be, contact Anne Valade.
If there is a girl who needs to transfer out of one troop into another, register her with her current troop and do the transfer after.

Troop Finance Reports We will be collecting Finance reports beginning at the next Leader's Meeting.  For the form and instructions on how to fill it out: http://www.girlscoutseasternmass.org/forms.html?cat=6718

Notable Upcoming Council Programs
Civil War Living History Program The Framingham History Center is putting on a Civil War Living History Encampment - 5/4-6, 2012.  This can be a troop camping trip or a family camping trip.  More info can be found at www.framinghamhistory.org
$6.25 per girl, patch included.
The flyer is here.

Footsteps of American Saints Program For girls in grades 2-5.  May 3, 2012 from 4-6 pm in Waltham.  Girls learn about the lives of American saints - including:  Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, Saint Agnes (the patron saint of Girl Scouts), and Saint Katherine Drexel.
$15 per girl plus a Food Pantry item, patch included.
The flyer is here.

Mad Scientist Daisy/Brownie event on 4/29/12, 2-3:45 pm in Bolton.  Explore the scientific method and have fun!
$9 per girl - super patch piece included.
More info here

Brownie Pet Badge for grades 2 & 3 on 4/28/12, 10am-12pm in Norfolk.  Earn your pet badge, learn about "pocket pets" (mice, gerbils, hamsters, etc...).
$13 per girl, badge included.
More info here

Pocket Pets and Other Critters for Juniors on 4/28/12 (may also be on 6/2/12), 1pm-4pm in Norfolk.  Learn about small pets, and handle some of them!
$15 per girl.
More info here

Kids4Trees for girls K-5, 6/9/12, 9:45am-1:30pm at Franklin Park. Learn about trees and the enviroment with Smokey the Bear and Woodsy the Owl.  Learn about Olympic values, staying healthy and pursuing your dreams from Olympic athletes.
Free.
More info here

Celebrating 100 years of Scouting for all ages, 5/12/12 10am-5pm, 5/13/12 12pm-5pm in Danvers.  Crafts, games, songs, and a fashion show.  This is a drop-in event with activities that repeat throughout the day. 
$5 per girl.
More info here

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater for all ages, 4/26-29/12 at the Wang Theater.  Special Girl Scout Friends and Family discount. 
Go to www.citicenter.org/alvin and use the code GSCOUTMA.

100th Anniversary Camporee, 6/1-3 (for 4th grade and up). Deadline for registration is 4/1. Sign up now with just 1 person to hold the spot and add the rest of your group later.
Sunday from 12-4 is a festival open to families. Cost is $10 is you went to the camporee, $12 if you pre-register, and $15 if you are a walk-in.
If your troop is planning on going to the Camporee (and there appeared to be at least 5 troops going), send Amy Kelly an email - she wants to know.
If you are not certified for encampment, GSEM will pair you with a troop that is. Don't let the lack of time for squeezing in the training keep you from this event!

Sundown Singalog for all ages, 5/18/12, 6-7:30 pm in Waltham.  Girl Scout songs and s'mores around the campfire
$7 per girl.
More info here

Some useful email addresses for Council:
Award, Bronze: bronzeaward@girlscoutseasternmass.org
Award, Gold: goldaward@girlscoutseasternmass.org
Award, Silver: silveraward@girlscoutseasternmass.org
Camp: camp@girlscoutseasternmass.org
Camporee: camporee@girlscoutseasternmass.org
Cookies: cookies@girlscoutseasternmass.org
Events: events@girlscoutseasternmass.org
Membership: join@girlscoutseasternmass.org
Program: program@girlscoutseasternmass.org
Registration: cessupport@girlscoutseasternmass.org
Volunteer: volunteers@girlscoutseasternmass.org
Other: info@girlscoutseasternmass

Town Update
Email Blasts
We have started using email blasts to the parents to make sure that they are aware of events that are being offered.  The Fairy House event went out via a blast and the attendance jumped from 25 to 75 girls in a very short time.
The plan is that the Leaders will receive the info about events at the Leaders Meeting.  Then, on the 1st of the month, parents will receive a single blast with all of the monthly flyers for that months events that pertain to their child.  All will have the option of not receiving the blasts.

The hope is that this gives all girls the access to all of the opportunities.  Also - if the Leader cannot do an event due to a conflict - maybe a parent will step forward to help out.

NR Transcript
It is great to see photos of the scouts in the Transcript.  Keep it up!  Also - remember that good press for local businesses who help us will only encourage them to help other troops in the future!

S.H.A.R.E. (Support Her Activities, Resources, and Experiences) fundraiser has started. This is a Council run drive to raise money to fund programs, training classes, camp maintenance, etc.  Envelopes were distributed at the meeting and are available from Anne for all troops.  Please explain the fundraiser to your parents and pass the envelopes along.
This year, the Girl Council is planning a Share Her Artistic Renderings Exhibit on 5/22 from 6:30-8pm (tentative). 
Girls will be asked to create "art" - to display at the event. The art can be anything: painting, drawing, sculpture, baking, sewing, jewelry, photography, etc...
Entry ticket to the art exhibit will be the S.H.A.R.E. envelope. Ask parents to return the envelopes anyway, even if not attending the exhibit.
There is likely to be a bake sale as well.  Please let Anne Valade know if your troop wants to contribute to the bake sale.

If your troop is going to participate, please let Anne Valade know (for space planning).
Girl Council - is a group of 6th grade and up Scouts who are looking for more involvement. Anne Valade meets with them and they work on putting together events and give ideas to the Service Team. Girl Council is working on the following:
- Art Exhibit for S.H.A.R.E.
- A Fancy Nancy event for Daisies - May or early June, right after school
- Activities for Younger Girl Encampment - they will be attending to help
- Daisy Fly Up - date will be posted as soon as possible

Cookie Info Cookie recognitions should be in by the end of the month.  Last year's cookie credits need to be used before the end of June (on bright pink paper).  A trip to the store during Encampment is a great time to use them up!

Past Events
The History of Scouting Exhibit in the Children's Room of the library was taken down.  Thanks to everyone who stopped by to see it.

Daisy/Brownie Fairy House Event was a great success - 75 girls signed up!  The girls did lots of activities and Leaders said that their girls had a great time.  The weather was great, which helped with the building of the Fairy houses...but no one counted on all the ticks!  It is going to be a rough season...


Future Events
LaserQuest Event and Gymnastics for vacation week. 
Arbor Day Event - 4/27/12
Fancy Nancy and the Delectable Cupcakes event for Daisies, 5/24/12, 4-5:30pm at the High School Cafeteria (tentative).  There will be a story, snack, craft, and Bingo if time allows.  Flyer soon...

Daisy Fly-up 5/29/12, 6:30-7:30 pm at the IRP Pavillion (tentative).  We have split the Daisies off for Fly-up to make the events more manageable and enjoyable.  Flyer soon...

Younger Girl Encampment for K-5th, 4/28-29 at Camp Cedar Hill. 

100 Year T-shirts Flyer for ordering will be coming soon - and t-shirts should be available for the parade.

Memorial Day Parade - ~ 1 mile slow walk along the parade route. Troops generally make and carry a banner that represents the troop for this. The banner gets re-used for Fly-up and can be used for the troop's lifetime.
Back to Basics - The Service Team has decided that next year's events will go back to the basics: World Thinking Day, Juliette Low Birthday Party, etc...  Please bring your ideas (Peace Corps Volunteers, Drummers, Folk Dancing) to our attention - or better yet, join us for the summer planning meetings!

Early September Older Girl Overnight for 6th and up.  Will be a tent camping overnight at Camp Favorite in Brewster.  No activities will be planned - this will just be an opportunity for troops to go camping!  Date is forthcoming....

Next Leaders Meeting is 5/15, 7:30 p.m. at Town Hall, Room 14