Almost Like Girl Scout Cookies

Would you like to try making cookies that taste like the ones Girl Scouts
sell? Try these recipes.

http://www.delish.com/recipes/cooking-recipes/girl-scout-cookies-recipes

[leaders] GSMISTS office hours

Leaders,

I just received the following information from council regarding their hours. Please read it over before heading out, especially with winter and bad roads.

We have been receiving questions about our office hours and hope this message helps clarify when GSMISTS Service Centers and Shops are open.

Current Office and Shop* Hours:

Monday: 10:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Tues.-Thurs.: 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Friday: Closed

*All shops are open the 2nd Saturday of the month from 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. February - June and September - December*

Holiday Hours:

GSMISTS will be closed from December 24, 2009 - Monday, January 4, 2010

New Muskegon Shop Location
The shop in Muskegon has moved from the Betsy Cutler House to the Muskegon Service Center. Please stop by to see the new location.

--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

To unsubscribe to this list, send an email to leaders-unsubscribe@rockfordgs.com.

[leaders] December leader meeting & newsletter

Leaders,

The December leader meeting will be this Monday, December 7 at Rockford United Methodist Church.

5:30 - Troop Management 101
6:00 - Leader Roundtable discussion
7:00 - Business Meeting

The newsletter is posted. Here's the link. It has info on the meeting, upcoming events, Fall product pickup, etc. Please check it out.

http://www.rockfordgs.com/leader_pages/minutes_news.htm

Cannonsburg leaders - I know that Monday is your Christmas program. We'll miss you. Call me if you need info on anything.

Beverly

--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

To unsubscribe to this list, send an email to leaders-unsubscribe@rockfordgs.com.

[leaders] GS November minutes and more news

Leaders,

The minutes from the November leader meeting are on the website. Please check them out. Here's the link. http://www.rockfordgs.com/leader_pages/minutes_news.htm

Congrats to us: The Gerald Ford Museum awarded our Rockford Service Unit tree the award for "Most Creative Kids Tree"! Thanks again to Corie Ripple and Jenny Brinkmeier and their troop. Corie will be at the tree lighting ceremony and accept the award. Encourage your troop to go visit the museum and see our award winning Christmas Tree, Girl Scout Traditions!

Service Opportunities from Council
Mr. Bill Rowe and the Walker branch Post Office are looking for groups to paint their windows. It has to be a holiday theme. Windows are also available at the down town branch. The paintings must be completed within the next couple of weeks. Please contact Bill for more information or to reserve a window. 791-4005

For older girl troops: There are three or more dates on the calendar when Girl Scouts council will be working through the LOOP program at Sibley Elementary with the girls who stay in the after school program. Wanda, our staff person, is on vacation during these dates and so we are looking for volunteers who would like to earn service hours. The group meets from 5 – 6 p.m. and the current dates are December 3, 10, and 17. You can bring your own activity or you can request an activity from Wanda when telling her on which date/dates you can volunteer! This is a very amazing experience as the younger girls LOVE when older girls come to them. Please, if you choose the activity, tie it to one of the leadership objectives within the Discover, Connect and Take Action goals and have it approved by Wanda.

The other available dates currently are Monday, November 30, and Monday, December 14, at Southwest Community Campus. As stated earlier in the previous email, Wanda usually covers these sites, but will be on vacation for some, but not all of them. Some of these openings are due to schedule conflicts. The LOOP after school program staff will be present to help your group set up and work with the girls, so this is a very simple way to get service hours!
Please contact Wanda Garyson, wgaryson@gsmists.org or 784-3341, extension 147.

Thanks,
Beverly

--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

To unsubscribe to this list, send an email to leaders-unsubscribe@rockfordgs.com.

[leaders] Fwd: UPDATE: Gerald R. Ford Museum Tree Lighting and Open House

Leaders,

More about the tree lighting on 11/19 and the open house on 12/6.

Beverly
--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

> Subject: UPDATE: Gerald R. Ford Museum Tree Lighting and Open House
> Date: Mon, 16 Nov 2009 10:04:58 -0500
> From: "Vicky Pratt" <VPratt@gsmists.org>
> To: "Rosemary Mills" <grkmills@sbcglobal.net>,
<beverlyd@charter.net>,
"Sarah Stobie" <foresthillsgs@comcast.net>,
"Beverly Dickinson" <dickinbe@gvsu.edu>,
"Nancy Walenta" <walentan@yahoo.com>,
"Peggy Clocklin" <peggyclocklin@comcast.net>
>
> Please forward to your leaders!
>
> At your SU meetings I announced the open house at the G.R. Ford Museum to celebrate the trees and was led to believe that the tree lighting ceremony would be part of that. GSMISTS will be attending the open house on Sunday, December 6, where we will be hosting a recruiting table for adults and girls. However the tree lighting is this week Thursday. I've combined Rockford SUs update with the museum website details. Please see below.
>
>
> Christmas on the Grand
> Annual Outdoor Tree Lighting Ceremony
> Thursday, November 19, 2009 7:00 p.m.
> GRAND RAPIDS -- Join in the fun as the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum lights up the Grand with its annual holiday display of trees and holiday lights. Also lighted will be the Children's Tree located inside the burial site of President Ford. This towering blue spruce was given to President and Mrs. Ford for their 45th wedding anniversary. A sing-a-long, refreshments and free admission to the Museum following the event will be included.
> From Rockford SU: This Thursday (11/19) is the Tree Lighting Ceremony at 7:00 p.m. in the museum plaza area near the entrance. Everyone is invited. The ceremony begins OUTSIDE at 7:00 p.m. and then we are let in at 7:30 to view the trees. So dress warmly. The Salvation Army will be there with cocoa and cookies for the reception. Also, if anyone wants to come and see the trees, its free if you're not going to go through the whole museum. The trees will be on display through Christmas break.
>
> Holiday Open House
> Sunday, December 6, 2009 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
> FREE ADMISSION
> GRAND RAPIDS -- Once again the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum will open its doors from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. inviting one and all to celebrate the holiday season. This year will include a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus - along with a few of his reindeer! Holiday music will be provided throughout the afternoon by local choirs. For additional information call the Museum at (616) 254-0400
>
> We would love to have Girl Scouts in uniform at both of these events. First, each is free - and that's like winning the grand prize in this economy, and second, your girls will be showing their support of others' efforts while having fun. Win-Win!
>
> Vicky Pratt
> Membership Manager
> Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore
> Grand Rapids Office
> 3275 Walker Ave. NW,
> Grand Rapids, MI 49544
> 616-784-3341 ext. 146
>
>

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

To unsubscribe to this list, send an email to leaders-unsubscribe@rockfordgs.com.

[leaders] Fwd: Gerald Ford x-mas tree

Leaders,

The Christmas tree is decorated at the Gerald Ford Museum. Thanks to Corie Ripple and Jenny Brinkmeier and their troop for their efforts.

This Thursday (11/19) is the Tree Lighting Ceremony at 7:00 p.m. in the museum plaza area near the entrance. Everyone is invited. The ceremony begins OUTSIDE at 7:00 p.m. and then we are let in at 7:30 to view the trees. So dress warmly. The Salvation Army will be there with cocoa and cookies for the reception.

Also, if anyone want to come and see the tree, its free if you're not going to go through the whole museum. The trees will be on display through Christmas break.

Follow this link to pictures on our website. http://rockfordgs.com/activities/comm_service/index.htm

Hope you can take your troop! Or encourage your girls and their families to go!

Beverly
--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

> Date: Sun, 15 Nov 2009 14:02:51 -0500 (EST)
> From: corie ripple <corie.ripple@earthlink.net>
> To: "beverlyd@charter.net" <beverlyd@charter.net>
> Subject: Gerald Ford x-mas tree
>
> Hi Beverly,
>
> Just so you know, the tree is up and decorated. It looks great! With all of our homemade ornaments, it certainly looks like a lot of effort and time was put into our creation. I've attached some photos for you to see.
>
> This Thursday (11/19) is the Tree Lighting Ceremony at 7:00 p.m. in the museum plaza area near the entrance. Everyone is invited. The ceremony begins OUTSIDE at 7:00 p.m. and then we are let in at 7:30 to view the trees. So dress warmly. The Salvation Army will be there with cocoa and cookies for the reception.
>
> Also, if anyone want to come and see the tree, its free if you're not going to go through the whole museum.
>
> So, pass the word around if anyone wants to go to the ceremony... I'll be there, just so you know.
> talk to you later...
> Corie

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

To unsubscribe to this list, send an email to leaders-unsubscribe@rockfordgs.com.

[leaders] Older Girl Art of Scrapbooking IPA

Art of Scrapbooking IPA

Do you love Scrapbooking? Do you want to know more about it? Have you never scrapbooked? Do you scrapbook all of the time? If you answered YES to any of these questions, this is your event. Deann Oliver, who is a Stampin’ Up Demonstrator, is hosting this event.

 

Who: Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors

Date: Sunday, Nov. 15, 2009

Time: 2 pm to 4 pm

Place: OLC family center

Cost: $10 per girl (includes supplies, snack and IPA)

RSVP to Jane Turner at 485-2380 or email jane@rockfordgs.com by Nov. 13th. Pay at the door.

If you don’t RSVP, no guarantee on materials.

 

Jane

 

Rockford Service Unit

Troop 1996

 

[leaders] Newsletter for tomorrow's Meeting

Leaders,

Tomorrow is our monthly leader meeting. Monday, November 9! Rockford United Methodist Church!

Here's the link to the newsletter. http://www.rockfordgs.com/leader_pages/minutes_newsletters/Newsletter_200911.pdf

5:30 - Troop Management 101
6:00 - Santa Parade Training
7:00 - Business meeting
8:15 - Service Team Meeting

At the meeting, we'll have updates on events, fall product sales, training, and more!

Please be there! I apologize for the lateness of the newsletter. Illness has struck the Dickinson clan.

Due to the lateness, please take a minute and notify other leaders. Call your co-leader or someone else at your school. Pass on the news.

Thanks!
Beverly

--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

To unsubscribe to this list, send an email to leaders-unsubscribe@rockfordgs.com.

My Girl Scout Pin

By Carol Lee Spages
My Girl Scout pin is small in size,
But so many things are tucked inside.
Courage, honor and fairness, so true,
Make the world a better place...
That’s what I will do!
It means I am friendly to all who I know,
Considerate and caring wherever I go.
It holds a pledge that I will be strong,
And do what is right when things go all wrong.
It’s sisterhood, adventure, discovery and fun,
It’s knowing much more when the day is done.
If everyone would follow the Girl Scout way,
Wouldn’t we have a wonderful U.S. of A?

FW: Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore Guidelines Regarding H1N1 Virus (Swine Flu)

Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore Guidelines Regarding the H1N1 Virus (Swine Flu) 

GSMISTS is monitoring the H1N1 Virus (Swine Flu) situation closely and taking appropriate steps based on guidelines established by the Michigan Department of Community Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The health and safety of our girls is always our highest priority. We are not public health experts, but we advise anyone working with Girl Scouts to keep abreast of the latest recommendations. You may want to look at the following links: 

·    Michigan Department of Community Health H1N1 Influenza Information

·    Centers for Disease Control and Prevention H1N1 Influenza Information

·    CDC Good Health Habits for Preventing the Flu

You may also find additional helpful resources through your local county health department.

Please make sure all involved with your Girl Scout activities are practicing the following recommendations:

1. Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water.  When soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based disposable hand wipes and gel sanitizers. 

2. Do not touch your face, especially eyes, nose and mouth, with your hands.

3. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.

4. Encourage anyone who is not feeling well to refrain from participating.

Information for Girl Scout events  

At this time most Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore events and sessions are moving forward as planned. However, as cases of H1N1 increase in certain communities and health officials deem safety to be a concern for our events, we will make the necessary decisions to protect the girls. If cancellations are necessary, we will inform participants and communicate the information to our membership through our web site and e-mail updates.

As always, participation in Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore activities is the decision of each individual girl and her family. Consistent with our standard event cancellation and refund policies, if you choose to have your daughter not attend an event that has not been cancelled for safety concerns, we will not issue a refund. If circumstances change and we do cancel an event, all registrants will receive refunds. Some cancelled events may be rescheduled, and we will provide updates about those events through the web site and e-mail updates.

We always stress good health practices at our events and camps, including frequent hand washing and covering one's mouth with a tissue when sneezing or coughing. The food preparation and serving process, as well as cleaning at Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore camps will continue to meet the standards of the Michigan Department of Health for licensed childcare facilities. These procedures will be enhanced as necessary in accordance with recommendations from the Michigan Department of Community Health as circumstances change.  


Yours In Girl Scouting,

Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore

No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
Version: 8.5.423 / Virus Database: 270.14.34/2462 - Release Date: 10/27/09 07:38:00

[leaders] Girl Scouts Diversity training

Fellow leaders,

Since I sent that email last week about diversity training, I have had a number of emails. The main questions boil down to "How do I know if I need this training?"

In a nutshell, you need this training. Ideally, you need it sometime this year.

If you took the Bridging to Unity diversity training offered in Big Rapids in May, you do NOT need Dimensions of Diversity.

However, if you took Michigan Mosaic at Leader/Daughter campout OR took the series of 3 enrichments OR took the diversity training to be a delegate, sorry, you still need this training. Girl Scouts is continuing to stress the importance of diversity training for their leaders.

If you are a new leader, struggling with the other training requirements, get them done first. This training can be done later.

If you have had an in-depth diversity training through work or another volunteer experience, contact Kim Dyer directly at council and ask her if yours qualifies. She has the final call on that. You can reach Kim at 784-3341 or kdyer@gsmists.org.

Please note that these are council requirements. And yes, I need the training too.

Will we bring it to Rockford? Please don't plan on it. We are trying to bring the Troop Management 101 and the camping and the first aid/CPR to Rockford. There are limits. If there are not enough sessions at Council (and I confess that I have not looked), we will see what we can do.

Let me know if you have any questions. Thanks!
Beverly

--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

To unsubscribe to this list, send an email to leaders-unsubscribe@rockfordgs.com.

[leaders] Fwd: Dimensions of Diversity at GRSC Tuesday night - more welcome! SUDs, please share with your volunteers.

Fellow Rockford leaders,

If you need Diversity training this year (and you do if you have not had GS diversity training before) and you are not stuck with sick children, there are openings for this Tuesday night at the Grand Rapids Service Center. Read down to see more information.

thanks!
Beverly
--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

> Subject: Dimensions of Diversity at GRSC Tuesday night - more welcome! SUDs, please share with your volunteers.
> Date: Fri, 23 Oct 2009 15:45:47 -0400
> From: "Kim Dyer" <KDyer@gsmists.org>
> To: "Kim Dyer" <KDyer@gsmists.org>
>
> We have enough people registered to host Dimensions of Diversity this
> Tuesday night at GRSC in Training Room from 6:30-9:30 p.m. More are
> welcome to attend. Registration fee is $5. Register online at
> https://www2.e-council.net/code/onlinereg/?council=450; or if E-Council
> closes the event over the weekend, just call or e-mail Beth Petersen at
> bpetersen@gsmists.org, ext. 120, to let her know you're coming and pay
> at the door.
>
> This is a great session you will truly enjoy. Sweet snacks are included
> with the price and packet! This is a required adult learning session
> for all GSMISTS volunteers. I hope you can make it! This session is
> also available by special request.
>
> Kim Dyer
> Sr. Adult Development Manager
> Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore
> Toll Free 866-566-7434 Grand Rapids Direct 616/784-6669, ext. 142;
> 616/784-3341; FAX 616/784-8187 or Muskegon Direct 231/744-4776, ext.
> 207; FAX 231/744-5874
> Grand Rapids Service Center, 3275 Walker Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49544
> or Muskegon Service Center, 1217 River Road, Muskegon, MI 49445
> Website www.gsmists.org
> Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence, and character, who
> make the world a better place.
>
>
>

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

To unsubscribe to this list, send an email to leaders-unsubscribe@rockfordgs.com.

[leaders] Upcoming Rockford Events

Leaders,

A couple of upcoming events.

Daisy Gingerbread Event will be on Tuesday, November 10 at the Freshman Center. Sandy Dean's troop has volunteered to help (Thanks!) and several leaders mentioned they would be able to talk to parents. This event is for girls that have no troop yet, Kindergarten and 1st grade. We'll be sending flyers home through school and posting info in the library, newspapers, etc. If you are interested in helping, please let me know.

Santa Parade Training:
The Santa parade is December 5 in Downtown Rockford. If you are interested in participating, you must attend the training on November 9. Here's the link from our website.
http://www.rockfordgs.com/calendar/calendar_item.php?&id=157
In past years, the Rockford Chamber of Commerce has send the registration form directly to you. In order to save postage, they will not be sending it this year. The registration form is on our website, linked to the calendar listing.

Public Museum events:
Several leaders were asking about these at the last leader meeting and for those new leaders, let me explain. The Public Museum of Grand Rapids has great events for Girl Scouts. They cost about $7 per girl (check details to make sure) and do an entire Try-it, Badge, or IPP in one session. They are very hard to find in It's a Shore Thing. But they are all on our website! Go to the calendar link
http://www.rockfordgs.com/calendar/calendar.php
and look around. The first Junior event is November 14 and the first Brownie event is Manners Here and Now on December 5. If your Brownie troop is NOT doing the Santa Parade, this is a great alternative with the museum all decorated for the holidays. The registration form is linked on our website. You send the registration straight to the museum, NOT to us and NOT to council. Usually these fill up fast, but this year they are getting no response due to the poor listing in Shore Thing. So take advantage of this and GO.

Thanks,
--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

<p>Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.</p>
<p><b>To unsubscribe to this list, send an email to leaders-unsubscribe@rockfordgs.com.</b></p>

[leaders] Service Project

The adult day care center, Care Resources, is in need for things for their Bingo store. The members LOVE the small shampoo bottles and other bottles that you get at hotels. If you have some and would like to donate them, please bring them to the next leaders meeting on November 9^th. I will deliver them.

 

Thanks,

Jane

 

Rockford Service Unit

Troop 1996

 

Girl Scouts Commemorative Coin Legislation Passes Senate

By Coin Update Staff on October 21st, 2009

On October 19, 2009, the Senate unanimously passed legislation that will authorize the production of Girl Scouts Commemorative Coins in 2013. Just a few days earlier, the bill had been passed by the House of Representatives. All that remains for the bill to become law is the President's signature.

H.R. 621: Girl Scouts USA Centennial Commemorative Coin Act was introduced on January 21, 2009 by Jack Kingston of Georgia. The purpose of the Act is to require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in commemoration of the centennial of the establishment of the Girl Scouts of America. Juliette Gordon Low had organized the first two Girl Scout troops in Savannah, Georgia on March 12, 1912.

Up to 350,000 silver dollar coins would be produced and issued during the calendar year beginning January 1, 2013. The Act recommends production of coins at the West Point Mint to the extent possible. Each coin would bear a design emblematic of the centennial of the Girl Scouts of America. Required inscriptions include the face value, the year "2013", "Liberty", "United States of America", and "E Pluribus Unum".

The final design for the coins will be selected by the Secretary of the Treasury after consultation withteh Girl Scouts of the United States of America, the Commission of Fine Arts, and review by the Citizens Coinage Adisory Committee.

All coins will carry a surcharge of $10 per coin. This amount will be paid to the Girl Scouts of America for program development and delivery.

 

[leaders] GS leader minutes

Leaders,

Please check the following link to the Minutes from the October 12 Leader Meeting.

http://www.rockfordgs.com/leader_pages/minutes_news.htm

Information on Fall Product, upcoming events, helping with the Christmas Tree, Santa Parade, training for new and current leaders, and MORE.

Thanks!
Beverly

--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

[leaders] Fwd: Camp Survey for Girls

Did your daughter or girls in your troop attend summer camp? Or did she not because of specific reasons?

Follow the following link to the GSMISTS website to give their opinions about summer camp! The first 100 to respond will be in a drawing to win a free week at camp!

Each month there will be a new survey allowing girls' voices to be heard!

http://www.gsmists.org/camp-and-facilities
--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

> Subject: Camp Survey for Girls
> Date: Tue, 13 Oct 2009 16:36:02 -0400
> From: "Vicky Pratt" <VPratt@gsmists.org>
> To: <beverlyd@charter.net>,
"Beverly Dickinson" <dickinbe@gvsu.edu>,
"Nancy Walenta" <walentan@yahoo.com>,
"Peggy Clocklin" <peggyclocklin@comcast.net>,
"Rosemary Mills" <grkmills@sbcglobal.net>,
"Sarah Stobie" <foresthillsgs@comcast.net>
>
> http://www.gsmists.org/camp-and-facilities
>
> Have your girls follow the above like to the GSMISTS website to give
> their opinions about summer camp! The first 100 to respond will be in a
> drawing to win a free week at camp!
>
>
>
> Each month there will be a new survey allowing girls' voices to be
> heard!
>
>
>
> Vicky Pratt
>
> Membership Manager
>
> Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore
>
> Grand Rapids Office
>
> 3275 Walker Ave. NW
>
> Grand Rapids, MI 49544
>
> Toll Free 866-566-7434
>
> Direct 616-784-3341 or 800-442-1401, ext. 146
>
> www.gsmists.org
>
> fax 616-784-8187
>
>
>
>
>
>
>

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

[leaders] GS meeting - Mon, 10/12/09

Leaders and guests,

Just a quick reminder that the next Rockford GS leader meeting is Monday, October 12. We will be meeting as usual at the Rockford United Methodist Church.

6:00 - Fall Product Training (one hour)
6:30 - Social hour (no, you can't attend fall product training and social hour. But if you're not attending fall product training, come early and pick up stuff, meet friends, check out the recycle stuff, etc)
7:00 - Business meeting
8:15 - Service Team meeting

This is the Reuse/Recycle event. If you have books, uniform parts, craft supplies, patches, badges, parts for a try-it/badge/ipp, etc that you don't need, bring them along. However, don't assume I will take home whatever is left!

Remember to check and see if you troop has too many Shore to Shore books. One per troop and I'm running short.

Also remember to see if you have too many GS pins. Only the traditional OR the contemporary if you are Junior or higher, not both.

If you have something checked out from the library, please return it. There is a waiting list for Brownie and Junior journey books.

If you have any questions, give me a call! Hope to see you there.

--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

[leaders] Girl Scout newsletter and announcment

Dear Rockford leaders,

Jane has put together the newsletter this month and it looks great! Thanks so much. Here's the link. http://rockfordgs.com/leader_pages/minutes_newsletters/Newsletter_200910.pdf

Our next leader meeting is October 12, 2009. There will be some VERY important announcements at this meeting. Please make sure someone from your troop is there.

NOTE FROM BEVERLY TO LEADERS.

Let me start by stating that I love Girl Scouts. I have never regretted becoming a leader or part of the service team or the Service Unit Director. I have learned and grown and watched many other leaders learn and grow. I have made so many friends.

However, I regret that I simply cannot continue the way it is. I am stating here that if I don't receive some significant help by the Monday, October 12 leader meeting, that will be my last leader meeting and I will step down as Service Unit Director.

(This is especially bad for the new leaders to read. To those new leaders, I apologize. Please be assured that Rockford really is a wonderful service unit. There are many caring, dedicated leaders who truly care about the girls and Girl Scouting. I have faith that we can and will pull this off.)

Rockford is a big unit with almost 600 girls and 50 troops. I know you have already stepped up by being a leader and many have stepped up further by becoming part of the team. Many of you have served for years and, rightfully so, have stepped back to allow others to take their turn. Some leaders continue on helping the Service Unit even though their daughters have grown up and are adults!

Yet our service unit remains sadly, woefully understaffed. Here is a list of positions that we desperately need to be filled.

 Recruitment Manager – to help find troops for all those girls who have expressed interest. We had over 75 girls express interest since school night for Scouting. Some have not even been contacted because no one has been able to help me and I have not had time.
 Fall Product Manager – only one leader has stepped up and she is a brand new leader. Council requires a co-manager with this. Previous managers will mentor and so will Vicky, our council liaison. We have already missed the council manager training. The Council Manager, Susan Tamme, will be coming to our meeting to do our service unit training.
 Cookie Manager – that time is rapidly approaching
 Event Manager – this is what I wanted to do with my daughter. Jessica is doing her best. But she is only 14. So far, instead of this being the bonding time that we had hoped, we have ended up in tears because of lack of time and interest from other leaders.
 Event Coordinators – those willing to actually run the planned events.
 School Organizers for Meadow Ridge and Crestwood – you guessed it that these are the girls who have not been contacted.

This should not be the first time that you've heard this (except for the new leaders). I have asked before and I have heard from many that you don't have time. I know that you are stretched. But, to put it bluntly, what do you think I am doing? When no one helps, the job still has to get done. And if you don't have ½ an hour, how do you think I can find all the time added together?

I cannot be all the above positions as well as director. I spent all day Sunday on Girl Scouts and never even got to my actual troop and never got done all that needed to be accomplished. (And when I say all day, I mean about 10 hours.) I promised my family that I would only do this for one more year if I had the help that I needed. I don't have that help and I have to put my family first.

I'm not asking for someone to take over all of this. I asking for each person to think if you could, or you know of someone who could, take one small part. Just one small part. And with many small parts, it becomes manageable. All the above jobs can be shared. Co-product managers, co-recruitment managers, co-event managers, co-service unit director!

I don't want to quit. I truly don't. But something has to change. So please, help.

--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

[leaders] GS leader meeting October 12, 2009

Leaders,

Please note that the next leader meeting is Monday, October 12, 2009. Next week, NOT tonight. I believe the original dates did list this evening but where changed.

A newsletter will be out tonight with details.

thanks,
Beverly
--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

[leaders] Fwd: Please pass along to your Girl Scout volunteers!

Leaders -

I received this message from Vicky Pratt at Council. Ludington is less than two hours away and absolutely a beautiful little town. Read further for info on times, costs, and how to register.

Beverly

--> The 2nd Annual Celebration "Girls Rock the Planet" needs your
> participation to be a success!
>
> October 3, 2009
>
> Waterfront Park in Ludington
>
> 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Make a day of it and explore Ludington before and
> after the event!
>
> Cost is only $4.75 per person and includes a commemorative patch,
> activities and refreshments!
>
>
> Teens Only Area - Activity Stations - Shop Area - SWAP Site - Music on
> Stage!
>
> > All Girl Scouts are welcome: Daisy, Brownie, Junior, Cadette, Senior,
> Ambassador, Groups, Troops, Leaders, Volunteers, and Individual Girl
> Scouts with their adult!
>
>>
> You can still register by September 24 on e-council (www.gsmists.org
> <http://www.gsmists.org/> ) or by using an event registration form and
> mailing it to the address below. Please make sure we'll receive your
> registration BEFORE this Thursday, 9/24!
>
> > If you have questions, call 1-866-566-7434.
>
>
>
> Vicky Pratt
> Membership Manager
> Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore
> Grand Rapids Office
> 3275 Walker Ave. NW
> Grand Rapids, MI 49544
> Toll Free 866-566-7434
> Direct 616-784-3341 or 800-442-1401, ext. 146
> www.gsmists.org
> fax 616-784-8187
>
>
>
> Cookie Clean Out Sale!
>
> Get your Girl Scout Cookies before we run out! Purchase Girl Scout
> Cookies from a Service Center for $2.00 per box or $21.00 per case.
> Please help us spread the word about this important way to support girls
> in our community.
>
>
>

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

RE: [leaders] Girl Scouts - four things

Hello ladies! Thank you for all you do for Girl Scouting. You are
greatly appreciated and I hope you are secure in that fact.

Beverly has offered my assistance to anyone who steps forward as the
Fall Product Chair and I am writing to be sure you know that to be a
fact - not that Beverly would stretch the truth - but my own word
solidifies the deal! I have held this position as a volunteer and found
it to be quite enjoyable. Suggested ways to divide up the tasks:
1. The trainer - who will prepare and present the training to the
leaders/troop managers - if you are organized and don't mind standing
before a group, this is your position!
2. The numbers and paperwork person - if you love numbers and you love
entering data and checking figures, this is YOU! You will have a
deadline so be sure you can live by it!
3. Delivery site coordinator - secure a location to house your Service
Unit's product delivery (one might already be available), set troop
appointments to count and load their order, and distribute incentives.
This is a day-long commitment, but you get to visit with other adults!

This can be one or more individuals doing their part to make this a
success. I absolutely enjoyed the process and will help to be sure your
experience is enjoyable as well. Please contact Beverly to let her know
you're on board!

Thank again!

Vicky Pratt
Membership Manager
Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore
Grand Rapids Office
3275 Walker Ave. NW
Grand Rapids, MI 49544

Toll Free 866-566-7434

Direct 616-784-3341 or 800-442-1401, ext. 146

www.gsmists.org

fax 616-784-8187

Cookie Clean Out Sale!

Get your Girl Scout Cookies before we run out! Purchase Girl Scout
Cookies from a Service Center for $2.00 per box or $21.00 per case.
Please help us spread the word about this important way to support girls
in our community.

-----Original Message-----
From: beverlyd@charter.net [mailto:beverlyd@charter.net]
Sent: Sunday, September 20, 2009 11:13 AM
To: leaders@rockfordgs.com
Subject: [leaders] Girl Scouts - four things

Rockford Leaders,

Four areas where I really need your help.

1. If you are getting this email and you don't want to be, please let
me know. If you aren't the leader, but have a new leader, I need to
know that. If your troop has disbanded, I really need to know because I
have to know what happened to the girls (did they go to a new troop) and
any money left.

If you don't want to get any more emails, you need to go to our website,
www.rockfordgs.com, and click on the link under Our Mailing List. The
link says "click here to sign up" but once you click on it, you are
given directions to unsubscribe.

2. School Night for Scouting is this Tuesday, Sept 22 in all the
Rockford Public Elementary Schools from 6 - 8 pm. Please review the
list of school reps and helpers for that night. If you can help at one
of the schools, please let me know. If you are a leader of older girls
who went to that school, we need a few older girls to help out. (If I
have the information wrong, please let me know ASAP!)

Belmont: Organizer - Jennifer Meadows
School Night: Kathleen Bell & Jenn Bell [Needs leader helper]
Cannonsburg: Organizer - Tina Vriesenga
School Night: Tina Vriesenga [Needs Older Girl]
Crestwood: Organizer - Vacant
School Night: Beverly Dickinson & Jessica Dickinson [Needs leader
helper]
Lakes: Organizer - Jen Shook
School Night: Jen Shook with Sandy Feutz [may need older girl]
MeadowRidge: Organizer - DeAnna Anderson or Co-leader
School Night: DeAnna Anderson or Co-leader [needs leader helper and
older girl]
Parkside: Organizer - Wendy Wheeler
School Night: Wendy Wheeler and Vicky Pratt from GSMISTS [needs
older girl]
Roguewood: Organizer - Lorri Romesberg
School Night: Lorri Romesberg with Michaele Demarest & Kristy Neill
[needs older girl]
Valley View: Organizer - Missy Vitkauskas
School Night: Missy Vitkauskas with Nedra Harju [may need older
girl]

If you are signed up to run school night and need sign up sheets or
talking points or display info or cookies as a treat, call me.

3. Recruitment: With School night comes the biggest recruitment effort
we do. Our service unit needs a Recruitment Manager. This person will
work with the school organizers to place girls into existing troops,
create new troops, communicate with interested parents (who may respond
through school, our website, council, etc). I'll help you and the
school organizers will help. But someone has to manage it and track it.
I work full time and am Service Unit Director. I have three kids and
Jessica is events coordinator, so I'm working with that as well. I'll
be honest that this is a busy position, especially in the fall. Vicky
Pratt and I will mentor and help you. You don't have to know all the
answers. Maybe two of you can team up and split the schools or the age
levels. But without this position filled, and filled ASAP, I don't know
how we will get these new girls into troops. Someone needs to step up.

4. Fall Product. The annual Fall Product sales start in October. The
Fall Product training for the service unit can be prior to the October
meeting. But the fall product training for the Service Unit manager is
this coming Saturday, Sept 26. We need a fall product manager and we
need one NOW. Vicky Pratt from council will really be able to help this
year. She only has 4 Service Units this year, as opposed to 8 last
year. The program is the same as last year, so no new twists. Please
step up. Ideally, a team of two or three is best. If no one
coordinates this, we will lose so much for the troops and the service
unit and the council and the girls.

You all do so much already just by being leaders. Maybe you have a
parent in your troop who is awesome at paperwork and finance. He or she
would be great with fall product. Please help me fill these gaps in our
Service Unit Leadership Team.

Thanks!

--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl
Scouts.

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

[leaders] Girl Scouts - four things

Rockford Leaders,

Four areas where I really need your help.

1. If you are getting this email and you don't want to be, please let me know. If you aren't the leader, but have a new leader, I need to know that. If your troop has disbanded, I really need to know because I have to know what happened to the girls (did they go to a new troop) and any money left.

If you don't want to get any more emails, you need to go to our website, www.rockfordgs.com, and click on the link under Our Mailing List. The link says "click here to sign up" but once you click on it, you are given directions to unsubscribe.

2. School Night for Scouting is this Tuesday, Sept 22 in all the Rockford Public Elementary Schools from 6 – 8 pm. Please review the list of school reps and helpers for that night. If you can help at one of the schools, please let me know. If you are a leader of older girls who went to that school, we need a few older girls to help out. (If I have the information wrong, please let me know ASAP!)

Belmont: Organizer - Jennifer Meadows
School Night: Kathleen Bell & Jenn Bell [Needs leader helper]
Cannonsburg: Organizer - Tina Vriesenga
School Night: Tina Vriesenga [Needs Older Girl]
Crestwood: Organizer – Vacant
School Night: Beverly Dickinson & Jessica Dickinson [Needs leader helper]
Lakes: Organizer - Jen Shook
School Night: Jen Shook with Sandy Feutz [may need older girl]
MeadowRidge: Organizer - DeAnna Anderson or Co-leader
School Night: DeAnna Anderson or Co-leader [needs leader helper and older girl]
Parkside: Organizer - Wendy Wheeler
School Night: Wendy Wheeler and Vicky Pratt from GSMISTS [needs older girl]
Roguewood: Organizer - Lorri Romesberg
School Night: Lorri Romesberg with Michaele Demarest & Kristy Neill [needs older girl]
Valley View: Organizer - Missy Vitkauskas
School Night: Missy Vitkauskas with Nedra Harju [may need older girl]

If you are signed up to run school night and need sign up sheets or talking points or display info or cookies as a treat, call me.

3. Recruitment: With School night comes the biggest recruitment effort we do. Our service unit needs a Recruitment Manager. This person will work with the school organizers to place girls into existing troops, create new troops, communicate with interested parents (who may respond through school, our website, council, etc). I'll help you and the school organizers will help. But someone has to manage it and track it. I work full time and am Service Unit Director. I have three kids and Jessica is events coordinator, so I'm working with that as well. I'll be honest that this is a busy position, especially in the fall. Vicky Pratt and I will mentor and help you. You don't have to know all the answers. Maybe two of you can team up and split the schools or the age levels. But without this position filled, and filled ASAP, I don't know how we will get these new girls into troops. Someone needs to step up.

4. Fall Product. The annual Fall Product sales start in October. The Fall Product training for the service unit can be prior to the October meeting. But the fall product training for the Service Unit manager is this coming Saturday, Sept 26. We need a fall product manager and we need one NOW. Vicky Pratt from council will really be able to help this year. She only has 4 Service Units this year, as opposed to 8 last year. The program is the same as last year, so no new twists. Please step up. Ideally, a team of two or three is best. If no one coordinates this, we will lose so much for the troops and the service unit and the council and the girls.

You all do so much already just by being leaders. Maybe you have a parent in your troop who is awesome at paperwork and finance. He or she would be great with fall product. Please help me fill these gaps in our Service Unit Leadership Team.

Thanks!

--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

[leaders] GS leader meeting tonight

Leaders,

Here is tonight's agenda. As you can see, there is a lot to pick up, sign up for, check on, learn about. There is no training (that was tentative and cancelled) but I will be there about 6:00. Business meeting will start promptly at 7:00, so be sure to get there between 6 & 7 to get all your paperwork.

Hope to see you there!
Beverly

Rockford Girl Scout Leader Meeting Agenda – September 13, 2009

Welcome to a new year!
Introductions
Still need help on Service Team (chocolate!)
Service Team meet afterwards 8—8:15 each month
Any new leaders?
Drop Box—North Middle School only

Lots to sign up, pick up, and check
Check your file folders
Library—new Journey Books

Registration—Kristy Neill
Remember to register by Sept 30
$12 per registration
New preprinted forms if not registered already
Old forms were fine if already registered
Review new forms

Fall Product
Still need a Fall Product Manager for Service Unit
Dates
Training

School Night for Scouting—Sept 22 in Rockford Public
Biggest Recruitment event we hold
Once again, held in every school
Sign up to help in schools
Need older girls to help with girls while leaders talk to parents
Still need some School Organizers for certain schools

Events
See Event Guide on Back
Introduce Event Coordinator
Will help put events in place—NOT run each event
Still need leaders to step forward and run events—easy
Some traditional events, some new ideas, NOT set in stone

Training—Beth Reedy
New Training Program
MIWRMNDRY
Mentors
Lots more!

Council Update – Vicky Pratt
It's a Shore Thing
P. 61
Parent Folder—review contents
Confirmation Letters
More!

Service Team Meeting at 8:15

Sign Up
Sign in:
Check Leader Update Info sheet
Help with School Night for Scouting

Pick Up
It's a Shore Thing—1 per troop
Registration Forms—1 envelope per troop
Parent Information Folder—1 per Girl
Pins (if you need them)
Journey Books from library

Leader Meeting Dates
(Note that some are different from previously published)

September 14
October 12
Nov ember 9
December 7
January 4
February 8
March 8
April 12
May 10

--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

RockfordGS.com ~ It worked for me! Message

The following was submitted on September 8th, 2009 at 08:05PM (MDT).
HiQFormMail version 2.0 - 212.227.112.228 - http://rockfordgs.com/hiqfm/it_worked_form.htm

Subject: RockfordGS.com ~ It worked for me! Message
realname: eudlmj
email: gqqddm@tibpid.com
message: jbHu0j <a href="http://cnimbnnwyyak.com/">cnimbnnwyyak</a>, [url=http://vxzxeyzubkxi.com/]vxzxeyzubkxi[/url], [link=http://mptndlfwfahg.com/]mptndlfwfahg[/link], http://scbgicjnwovp.com/

REMOTE_ADDR: 212.227.112.228
BROWSER: Mozilla/4.0 (compatible; MSIE 6.0; Windows NT 5.1; SV1)

[leaders] First Leader Meeting

Leaders,

Our first leader meeting will be Sept 14, 2009. A "flyer" (can't really call it a full fledged newsletter) has been posted to the www.rockfordgs.com website. It has details about the time, location, what to bring, what you can pick up, who should come, and all that good stuff.

This will be a VERY important meeting - a kick-off meeting and first leader meeting of the year. I really hope to see you there.

Thanks,
Beverly

--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

[leaders] Girl Scout Swimming party

Rockford Girl Scout Pool Party

When: Thursday, August 13, 2009 (and the weather should be great!)
Time: From 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm
Where: Cannon Pool in the Rockford Village
Cost: $2.50 for pool members, $6.50 for non-pool members

parents and siblings welcomebut you do have to pay! We do need some parents to stay please as we need the ratio of leaders to girls.

Due to the late notice, please call or emai. You can still mail in your payment, drop it at Beth's house, or you can pay that night if need be

Please register using the service unit form available here.
http://www.rockfordgs.com/forms/service_unit/su_registration.xls

This will be a fun kick-off to Girl Scouting in the fall! If you haven't registered yet, bring your paperwork.
Meet old friends! Make new ones!

Cost includes swimming, snack, and patch.
Directions? Check the Cannon Pool website at www.cannonpool.org.

Questions: Call Beverly at 304-2615 or beverlyd@charter.net.

Registration Form(available on our website, www.rockfordgs.com) to Beth Reedy, 5646 Via Nuevo Dr, Rockford 49341. Or leave payment (NO CASH) at Beverly's house. Checks to: Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts.

--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

RE: [leaders] Girl Scout training - very important

See, more information that I didn't know.

As you may know, the Service Unit owns all the books. give me a call and we will be happy (ridiculously happy, overjoyed in fact) to check out the books to you.

Beverly
--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

---- Vicky Pratt <VPratt@gsmists.org> wrote:
> I first want to thank Beverly for moving this message out to you all. It
> is as important as she has stated.
>
> Second, I want to point out you can take these courses online as a home
> study if you have access to a set of your age-level Journey books (I
> have them all at home and can bring them in, but you will need to make
> arrangements to pick them up and return them ASAP when you're finished.)
>
>
> To complete the home study, simply go to www.gsmists.org, click on
> ADULTS in the center of the top banner, Click on CURRENT VOLUNTEERS in
> the right margin, Click on EDUCATION in the right margin, and then
> scroll to find Leadership Essentials Participant Notebook and Leadership
> Essentials Home Study. Print these out, complete the course, return the
> proper portion and you will be "graded" and the training recorded in
> e-Council.
>
> Thank you for giving your time and talents to be the best Girl Scout
> leaders!
>
> Vicky Pratt
> Membership Manager
> Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore
> Grand Rapids Office
> 3275 Walker Ave. NW
> Grand Rapids, MI 49544
>
> Toll Free 866-566-7434
>
> Direct 616-784-3341 or 800-442-1401, ext. 146
>
> www.gsmists.org
>
> fax 616-784-8187
>
> It's cookie time! The Girl Scouts Michigan Shore to Shore 2009 cookie
> sale is going on right now. Need to find a Girl Scout troop? Just call
> 1-866-566-7434 to get connected. Remember, it's more than a box of
> cookies. It's a lasting investment in our community.
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: beverlyd@charter.net [mailto:beverlyd@charter.net]
> Sent: Tuesday, June 23, 2009 1:56 PM
> To: leaders@rockfordgs.com
> Subject: [leaders] Girl Scout training - very important
>
> Leaders,
>
> Every year, council has told us and told you that training is essential.
> You must be trained.
>
> Well, this year they are coming down on that rule.
>
> If you were a new leader this year and did NOT take the Leadership
> Essentials for New Leaders class
> OR
> if you were a returning leader and did NOT take the Leadership
> Essential for Continuing Leaders class,
> you may not be reappointed as leaders next year.
>
> This is the training that discussed the new Journey books and the new GS
> mission. The following link tells it briefly and, if you took the
> training, you will say, Oh that class.
>
> http://www.gsmists.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=46&I
> temid=54
>
> This means that if you did not take the training and do not get it this
> summer, council is saying that you are not qualified and may not be
> allowed to be a leader in the future. I believe they will be sending
> out letters and/or postcards pretty soon to that effect.
>
> So, if you took the training, please let us know. We have the council
> computer records, but want to double check.
>
> What does this mean in the short term? Well, we are working with
> Council to find all the available dates for these classes during the
> summer and will be shortly forwarding those to you. It also means that
> we will try to offer it in the Service Unit, but we're not sure who all
> is "trained" to be the "trainer."
>
> What does this mean in the long term? Well, if neither you nor your
> co-leader have taken this class, there will be a problem. If one of you
> has taken it but not the other, then the trained one will be the leader
> and the untrained one will not be allowed to register as a leader.
>
> Obviously, we are hoping that as this is the first year and there have
> been so many other changes, there will be a grace period.
>
> Please note that this is not a service unit decision. This is not
> really even a council decision. This is a directive from the national
> level that the correct message should be presented by our leaders, that
> we want our leaders to be the best trained ever, that we want the right
> message going through to our girls, etc.
>
> Please work with us to make this happen and we will do what we can to
> support you.
>
> Thanks,
> Beverly
> --
> Beverly Dickinson
> Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
> 874-8926
> 304-2615 (cell)
> beverlyd@charter.net
>
> Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl
> Scouts.
>

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

RE: [leaders] Girl Scout training - very important

I first want to thank Beverly for moving this message out to you all. It
is as important as she has stated.

Second, I want to point out you can take these courses online as a home
study if you have access to a set of your age-level Journey books (I
have them all at home and can bring them in, but you will need to make
arrangements to pick them up and return them ASAP when you're finished.)

To complete the home study, simply go to www.gsmists.org, click on
ADULTS in the center of the top banner, Click on CURRENT VOLUNTEERS in
the right margin, Click on EDUCATION in the right margin, and then
scroll to find Leadership Essentials Participant Notebook and Leadership
Essentials Home Study. Print these out, complete the course, return the
proper portion and you will be "graded" and the training recorded in
e-Council.

Thank you for giving your time and talents to be the best Girl Scout
leaders!

Vicky Pratt
Membership Manager
Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore
Grand Rapids Office
3275 Walker Ave. NW
Grand Rapids, MI 49544

Toll Free 866-566-7434

Direct 616-784-3341 or 800-442-1401, ext. 146

www.gsmists.org

fax 616-784-8187

It's cookie time! The Girl Scouts Michigan Shore to Shore 2009 cookie
sale is going on right now. Need to find a Girl Scout troop? Just call
1-866-566-7434 to get connected. Remember, it's more than a box of
cookies. It's a lasting investment in our community.

-----Original Message-----
From: beverlyd@charter.net [mailto:beverlyd@charter.net]
Sent: Tuesday, June 23, 2009 1:56 PM
To: leaders@rockfordgs.com
Subject: [leaders] Girl Scout training - very important

Leaders,

Every year, council has told us and told you that training is essential.
You must be trained.

Well, this year they are coming down on that rule.

If you were a new leader this year and did NOT take the Leadership
Essentials for New Leaders class
OR
if you were a returning leader and did NOT take the Leadership
Essential for Continuing Leaders class,
you may not be reappointed as leaders next year.

This is the training that discussed the new Journey books and the new GS
mission. The following link tells it briefly and, if you took the
training, you will say, Oh that class.

http://www.gsmists.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=46&I
temid=54

This means that if you did not take the training and do not get it this
summer, council is saying that you are not qualified and may not be
allowed to be a leader in the future. I believe they will be sending
out letters and/or postcards pretty soon to that effect.

So, if you took the training, please let us know. We have the council
computer records, but want to double check.

What does this mean in the short term? Well, we are working with
Council to find all the available dates for these classes during the
summer and will be shortly forwarding those to you. It also means that
we will try to offer it in the Service Unit, but we're not sure who all
is "trained" to be the "trainer."

What does this mean in the long term? Well, if neither you nor your
co-leader have taken this class, there will be a problem. If one of you
has taken it but not the other, then the trained one will be the leader
and the untrained one will not be allowed to register as a leader.

Obviously, we are hoping that as this is the first year and there have
been so many other changes, there will be a grace period.

Please note that this is not a service unit decision. This is not
really even a council decision. This is a directive from the national
level that the correct message should be presented by our leaders, that
we want our leaders to be the best trained ever, that we want the right
message going through to our girls, etc.

Please work with us to make this happen and we will do what we can to
support you.

Thanks,
Beverly
--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl
Scouts.

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

[leaders] Girl Scout training - very important

Leaders,

Every year, council has told us and told you that training is essential. You must be trained.

Well, this year they are coming down on that rule.

If you were a new leader this year and did NOT take the Leadership Essentials for New Leaders class
OR
if you were a returning leader and did NOT take the Leadership Essential for Continuing Leaders class,
you may not be reappointed as leaders next year.

This is the training that discussed the new Journey books and the new GS mission. The following link tells it briefly and, if you took the training, you will say, Oh that class.

http://www.gsmists.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=46&Itemid=54

This means that if you did not take the training and do not get it this summer, council is saying that you are not qualified and may not be allowed to be a leader in the future. I believe they will be sending out letters and/or postcards pretty soon to that effect.

So, if you took the training, please let us know. We have the council computer records, but want to double check.

What does this mean in the short term? Well, we are working with Council to find all the available dates for these classes during the summer and will be shortly forwarding those to you. It also means that we will try to offer it in the Service Unit, but we're not sure who all is "trained" to be the "trainer."

What does this mean in the long term? Well, if neither you nor your co-leader have taken this class, there will be a problem. If one of you has taken it but not the other, then the trained one will be the leader and the untrained one will not be allowed to register as a leader.

Obviously, we are hoping that as this is the first year and there have been so many other changes, there will be a grace period.

Please note that this is not a service unit decision. This is not really even a council decision. This is a directive from the national level that the correct message should be presented by our leaders, that we want our leaders to be the best trained ever, that we want the right message going through to our girls, etc.

Please work with us to make this happen and we will do what we can to support you.

Thanks,
Beverly
--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

[leaders] Fwd: Girl Scout cookie selection

Leaders,

As you know, the council will be choosing which cookie baker will be used in future years. Of all the councils merging, our old council was the only one using ABC baker. (the one with Peanut Butter Patties, Thanks a Lot, etc).

The other bakers (Little Brownie Bakers) is the one with Do-si-dos and Samoas and those names.

Alice McDowell (almcd253@comcast.net) is on the committee that will decide. And I heard last night that they will make that desicion on Thursday, June 25.

So... If you have any input about cookies (not about cooke sales, not about your cookie mom or your cookie manager or about incentives), but about the actual product and the ordering process, please PASS THAT INFORMATION ALONG TO ALICE BY WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24.

Any outstanding praises, big complaints, do you like the marketing programs, incentives, quality of cookies, breakage, delivery, etc.

Thanks!

--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

> Date: Tue, 23 Jun 2009 11:24:45 +0000 (UTC)
> From: almcd253@comcast.net
>
>
>
>
>
> Hey, ladies!  I realize this is short notice but I am on the Council committee that will help select the cookie provider for next year and wanted to solicit any input from leaders.  So if any one would like to email me with pros/cons for our current provider - ABC - please do so by Wednesday, the 24th.
>
> Any outstanding praises, big complaints, do you like the marketing programs, incentives, quality of cookies, breakage, delivery, etc.   Just anything you would like me to be aware of.  And remember, this is concerning the cookie company, not GSMISTS.  The other cookie company is Little Brownie Baker.  And just an FYI, of the legacy councils, we were the only one using ABC.
>
> >
> Alice McD

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

[leaders] VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR GIRL SCOUT DAY CAMP

Rockford Leaders,

We need Adult Volunteers for Day Camp!! Also remember, you don't have to be a leader to be a volunteer. Please tell your parents in your troop. It's a lot of fun!

We've heard from some of you who are interested in helping out - now we need you to fill out the attached DC Adult Volunteer form and return it by Monday, June 22 or sooner! (FORM IS AT THE END OF THE EMAIL)

Please remember:

* The number of girls that can attend camp is based on the number of adults that volunteer. We need your help so we can give this great camp opportunity to as many girls as possible.

* All full-time volunteers receive guaranteed placement of their child(ren), a camp t-shirt and $20.00 refund on one camper's registration. (4 days of camp = full-time)

* Volunteer staff's sons aged 5 to 10 years old are invited to attend camp at no cost the days their parent is working at Day Camp.

* Training will be provided for all volunteer camp staff.

If you can volunteer for Rockford Day Camp, please email the form to; gscookiesrock@yahoo.com

or send it by US Mail to: Sarah Ek , 7697 Honeysuckle Lane , Rockford MI 49341

Please return this form by Monday, June 22 or sooner.

Thank you for your support.

Sarah Ek & Julie Savara

Rockford GS Day Camp

Monday, 7-20 to Thursday, 7/23 8:30am to 3:30 pm

(campers arrive at 9am

It is not too late to volunteer!

Help out with Day Camp! Send this form back with the Camper's Release Authorization, Health History and Medication forms!!

Your name: ____________________________________
Phone number: ______________________ Email address: ___________________
Camper's name: ________________________________

I would like to volunteer on: Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

* Circle some or all - All full-time/4-day volunteers receive guaranteed placement of their child(ren), a camp t-shirt and $20.00 refund on one camper's registration.

Volunteer's t-shirt size: AS AM AL AXL

¬¬__I have a 5-12 years old son that I'd like to enroll in the Boy's Unit

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Save this portion and mark the training dates on your calendar

Day Camp Volunteer Training Schedule
All day camp volunteers are required to attend two trainings. We have tried to give some options that will fit everyone's busy schedule! If you can not make these dates, contact Sarah Ek about other possible options.

Training #1
At Sarah Ek's House, 7697 Honeysuckle Lane, Rockford MI 49341

Monday, June 22, 6:30-8:30 pm Or Thursday, June 25 6:30-8:30 pm

AND
Training #2
At Camp Rockford on Rector Road between 12 and 13 Mile roads

Saturday, July 18, 4:00-6:00 pm Or Sunday, July 19, 1:00-3:00 pm

Any questions? Contact
Julie Savara at gscookiesrock@yahoo.com or Sarah Ek at theekx@sbcglobal.net

--
Beverly Dickinson
Rockford Neighborhood Girl Scouts
874-8926
304-2615 (cell)
beverlyd@charter.net

Please visit www.rockfordgs.com for the lastest info on Rockford Girl Scouts.

[leaders] Girl Scout Drop Box

Leaders,

 

Just so you are aware:  we will be pulling the drop box from North Rockford Middle School at the end of the school day on Tuesday, June 2^nd.

 

Beverly and I both have boxes on our porches so that you can continue to find blank registration forms there. 

 

Also, if you have NOT turned in your end of the year paperwork, please do so AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.  We will be turning in all paperwork to Council on Monday, June 1.

 

Thanks for all you do!   Happy Summer!

 

Beth

Re: [leaders] Girl Scout news from Vicky Pratt

In this regard, my neighborhood is having a garage sale this Saturday from 8 am to 3 and if any troop would like to set up a table by my garage, you are more than welcome!

Alice McD

first contact, first get
----- Original Message -----
From: "Beth Reedy" <bethreedy@charter.net>
To: leaders@rockfordgs.com
Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2009 2:35:16 PM GMT -05:00 US/Canada Eastern
Subject: [leaders] Girl Scout news from Vicky Pratt

Dear Girl Scout Troop Leader:

 

Girl Scouting is too important for girls to be short-changed by the effects of our state's economy.

 

The Girl Scout Cookie Sale Program sustains the Girl Scout troops, outreach groups, volunteer training, girl programs, resident camps, various properties, equipment shops, financial assistance and technology that ultimately create the GSMISTS experience. Unfortunately our famous sale this year has been deeply affected by the current state of the economy. We have taken steps to add more time to the sale and "stimulus" incentives for troops in hopes of reaching our goal of a modest increase over last year. We are not there yet.

 

Are you willing to go the extra mile to help reach our goal?

It is now time to be very clear – will your troop please sell at least another 10 cases of cookies?

 

Cookie Booth, Door to Door Direct Sale, Apartment complex, Special Event, Church, Corporate Sales, your relatives, reorders from previous customers…..there are still many customers who will say yes – if we just get out and ask them to support Girl Scouts.

 

Still not convinced? Well, you may be glad you kept reading. Each troop that sells at least 10 cases (120 boxes) or more of cookies between today and June 14 will earn a free one hour swim party. You choose the location: Camp Anna Behrens, Camp Sakakawea or Betsy Cutler House. Too far to drive, no time, don't like to swim? The second option is a free book set of the new Girl Scout Journey, to be released this summer, for your troop.  This is in addition to the troop proceeds and the stimulus incentive.

 

Does this mean we are extending the sale again? Yes, the cookies must go!

Our target end date is now June 14^th.

 

Are all varieties still available? Yes, from either baker.

 

Who can I call to get more information? Call a Girl Scout Service Center and ask for the Product Sales Manager – Susan in Grand Rapids, Jered in Muskegon, or Sharon in Traverse City.

 

Can I get cookies to sell? Yes!  The list of cookie stations, including the Service Centers, is attached.  Please phone first if planning to visit a cookie station.

 

These are unusual times – but Girl Scouts know how to work together.

This is our chance to really pull together to make great things happen – won't you please help?

All other things aside – it's for the girls!

 

 

Thank you,

 

Vicky Pratt

Membership Manager

Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore

Grand Rapids Office

3275 Walker Ave. NW

Grand Rapids, MI 49544

Toll Free 866-566-7434

Direct 616-784-3341 or 800-442-1401, ext. 146

www.gsmists.org

fax 616-784-8187

 

[leaders] Girl Scout news from Vicky Pratt

Dear Girl Scout Troop Leader:

 

Girl Scouting is too important for girls to be short-changed by the effects of our state’s economy.

 

The Girl Scout Cookie Sale Program sustains the Girl Scout troops, outreach groups, volunteer training, girl programs, resident camps, various properties, equipment shops, financial assistance and technology that ultimately create the GSMISTS experience. Unfortunately our famous sale this year has been deeply affected by the current state of the economy. We have taken steps to add more time to the sale and “stimulus” incentives for troops in hopes of reaching our goal of a modest increase over last year. We are not there yet.

 

Are you willing to go the extra mile to help reach our goal?

It is now time to be very clear – will your troop please sell at least another 10 cases of cookies?

 

Cookie Booth, Door to Door Direct Sale, Apartment complex, Special Event, Church, Corporate Sales, your relatives, reorders from previous customers…..there are still many customers who will say yes – if we just get out and ask them to support Girl Scouts.

 

Still not convinced? Well, you may be glad you kept reading. Each troop that sells at least 10 cases (120 boxes) or more of cookies between today and June 14 will earn a free one hour swim party. You choose the location: Camp Anna Behrens, Camp Sakakawea or Betsy Cutler House. Too far to drive, no time, don’t like to swim? The second option is a free book set of the new Girl Scout Journey, to be released this summer, for your troop.  This is in addition to the troop proceeds and the stimulus incentive.

 

Does this mean we are extending the sale again? Yes, the cookies must go!

Our target end date is now June 14^th.

 

Are all varieties still available? Yes, from either baker.

 

Who can I call to get more information? Call a Girl Scout Service Center and ask for the Product Sales Manager – Susan in Grand Rapids, Jered in Muskegon, or Sharon in Traverse City.

 

Can I get cookies to sell? Yes!  The list of cookie stations, including the Service Centers, is attached.  Please phone first if planning to visit a cookie station.

 

These are unusual times – but Girl Scouts know how to work together.

This is our chance to really pull together to make great things happen – won’t you please help?

All other things aside – it’s for the girls!

 

 

Thank you,

 

Vicky Pratt

Membership Manager

Girl Scouts of Michigan Shore to Shore

Grand Rapids Office

3275 Walker Ave. NW

Grand Rapids, MI 49544

Toll Free 866-566-7434

Direct 616-784-3341 or 800-442-1401, ext. 146

www.gsmists.org

fax 616-784-8187