Great Cause. Great Coffee. Girl Scouts.

We invite you to join us in a creative, socially-conscious fundraising endeavor with incredible potential for our Girl Scouts!

We are pleased to announce our partnership with Full Circle Exchange who offers Organic and Fair Trade coffee, tea, and chocolate products. By offering only Organic and Fair Trade products, Full Circle Exchange is intentionally supporting economic and environmental sustainability for farmers, their familes, and their communities. Full Circle Exchange goes even further by applying its net profits to a variety of social justice causes throughout the world.

Through this partnership with Full Circle Exchange, Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council will be empowering our local community to financially support our council goals, to exemplify responsible consumerism, and to support social justice through the sale of earth-supportive and ethically-traded products.

This holiday season, we are starting our fundraising adventure first with our adult champions -- Girl Scout adult members and volunteers. Work will begin next spring to create an exciting girl program with awards and travel opportunities that merge our new Leadership Experience curriculum with local and global justice issues.

Please join us in making this a successful fundraising campaign for the Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council. Take Action and make a difference by inviting your friends, family, and co-workers to purchase these high-quality, delicious products that support our local Girl Scouts and promote positive change in the world.

CLICK HERE to learn more about Full Circle Exchange and the Girl Scouts of Silver Sage partnership.

CLICK HERE to visit the Full Circle Exchange ordering site and start shopping! Enter "Girl Scouts of Silver Sage" when prompted for the non-profit organization and 30% of the purchase price of your orders will benefit Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council.
Purchase by December 7th and enjoy a 20% discount!
Enter coupon code: GSSSC20

Orders received by December 7th will be delivered by Christmas.

Thank you for your support!

Hispanic Outreach Coordinator Position Open

The Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council are currently seeking one VISTA to help us expand Girl Scout programs to youth in the Treasure Valley, with special emphasis to Hispanic youth. You do not have to currently be an AmeriCorps VISTA to apply – however, you will ultimately need to fill out their application and be accepted into the program. We are looking for people to begin their training as soon as possible. All expenses are paid for VISTA trainings.

We need the following VISTA:

Treasure Valley: Hispanic Outreach Coordinator

If you are interested in becoming a VISTA member , please submit your resume to our organization ASAP. This is a full-time, year-long commitment which requires a successful background check, experience working with youth, and applicable trainings. We are looking to fill this position ASAP.

Summary of Positions: This person will work in cooperation with the Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council staff and volunteers in the Treasure Valley area to help expand Girl Scouts programs and increase membership, with an emphasis on Hispanic youth. This is the only all-girl program in Idaho that provides opportunities for girls to learn problem solving, conflict resolution, communication, teamwork, leadership and to be empowered to make healthy, positive decisions in their lives. Girls develop and learn under the guidance of a positive adult mentor, during or immediately after school. Applicants must be able to speak and write well in Spanish and English.

Other responsibilities include membership outreach and youth development support as needed.

Restrictions:
Cannot be full time students
Cannot be employed outside their VISTA work
Cannot be involved in lobbying or partisan political activity subject to the Hatch provisions

Benefits/Living Allowance for Volunteer:
• Insurance – VISTA volunteers are provided health benefits at no cost to the volunteer for injuries and illness. The purpose is to provide essential health care services. Pre-existing medical conditions are not covered and coverage cannot be extended to dependents.
• Optional life insurance coverage is available for a cost of $2.07 bi-weekly, paid by the volunteer
• Living Allowance – Will receive a subsistence allowance every other week to pay for food, housing and personal expenses. This allowance is subject to Federal and Idaho State Income taxes. You will receive a monthly allowance of $833 (approximately $384 gross pay every two weeks over 26 pay periods per year. Net pay should be about $357 each pay period depending on withholding rates and life insurance options.
• Stipend/Education Award – If you choose the stipend you will be credited with $100 per month of service to assist them when they complete their service- this stipend is maintained as a savings account and paid to the volunteer in the last two allowance checks – you must complete the full 12 months of service to receive this stipend. The Education award is a voucher in the amount of $4725 per year of VISTA service. If selected, this will replace the stipend accrual of $1200 paid at the end of service.
• Child Care – those who qualify are eligible to receive up to $400 per month per child for child care voucher reimbursements which is paid to the child care provider
• Personal and Sick Leave – you would be entitled to 10 working days of personal leave during each full year of service – you are also entitled to 10 days of sick leave during each full year of VISTA service.

Women of Today and Tomorrow

Join us for the 19th Annual Women of Today & Tomorrow Luncheon on November 2, 2009.

If you would like to donate to Girl Scouts, but are unable to attend the luncheon click here.

Share Your Story and Win!

Win $250 for Your Girl Scout Story
***Call for Entries***

WHO: Calling all Girl Scout volunteers.
Disney’s FamilyFun magazine wants to hear from you!

WHAT: As part of an upcoming story celebrating Girl Scouts, Disney’s FamilyFun magazine would like to feature Girl Scout Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Girl Scout troop or group projects and activities. The best stories will reflect fun, learning, and inspiration and be those that Girl Scouts and their families can enjoy.

In addition, the best entries will:
• Be memorable group projects, crafts, games, or activities;
• Highlight the Girl Scout Leadership Experience. Stories about girls enjoying the Girl Scout Journeys are encouraged.

Volunteers whose stories are published will receive $250 for their Girl Scout troop or group, a free set of FamilyFun recipe and craft books, and a free print or digital subscription.

HOW: To enter, send a description of your Girl Scout troop or group’s project, craft, game, or activity.

Photos are encouraged! Please write “Girl Scouts” in the subject line and send your submission to: letters.familyfun@disney.com.

WHEN: Submissions are needed by Friday, Sept. 25

Blog, blog, blog!

Did you know GSUSA has a blog, too? They do! Check it out here.

Phifanella's Corner

Phifanella's Corner artwork done by Girl Scout, Allie!

The Girl Scouts of Silver Sage are having a grand reopening of their Girl Scout Store, Phifanella's Corner! Join us for fun, special guests, and amazing sale prices! Phifanella will even be stopping by!

The Scoop:
Host:Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council
Time:12:00PM Saturday, September 12th
Location:1410 Etheridge Lane, Boise, Idaho 83704

Upcoming Girl Scout Registration Event for Meridian

Learn more about the value of Girl Scouts! If you are living in Meridian this is an event you want to come to!

Thursday, September 10, 2009

6:30-8:30 p.m.

Homecourt YMCA 936 W. Taylor Avenue

Ontario or bust.

by Monique Johns

I recently had the opportunity to attend the Tri-County United Fund’s Nonprofit Appreciation Open House at the Elks Lodge in Ontario. The Tri-County United Fund can best be described as a mini-United Way. They raise money to benefit nonprofits in Malheur, Washington, and Payette counties. We left Boise at 6 a.m., which meant I was up at 4:30 a.m. staring at a pile of clean clothes crunched together in a cramped laundry basket wondering, “Will anyone notice if I don’t iron my clothes?” That was one of those 4:30 a.m. thoughts…because quite frankly, I think people would be surprised if I actually ironed my clothes. We arrived in Ontario at about 7:30 a.m., set up our booth, and then waited for the throngs of people to pass by, eagerly hoping to learn more about our organization. We stood by waiting to pounce on potential volunteers (okay, okay – not really pounce, but definitely waiting to deliver our spiel). As it turned out, we had very few “off the street” visitors. But that didn’t squelch our plans to get the word out about Girl Scouts. We networked with other nonprofits who were in attendance, including the Boys and Girls Club of West Treasure Valley (is Ontario in the Treasure Valley?) and the Veterans Advocates of Ore-Ida. We talked about our need for volunteers and they talked about their need for resources. We talked through some collaboration scenarios (i.e., “The Girl Scouts do Gift of Caring already during the Cookie drive and the Veterans Advocates want Girl Scout cookies to send to soldiers…). We shook hands, munched on some sugary morning treats, and after a few hours, quietly packed up for the ride back home to Boise.

It’s easy for me, when I’m not out in the field recruiting folks into our programs, to think of the negative: how few people really know and understand Girl Scouts. It is a constant struggle, which many nonprofits share, to get the word out about our leadership and youth development services for girls. I don’t usually get to accompany our membership staff on recruitment events like this so it was really refreshing to see them “in action.” These types of events remind me how much people appreciate the Girl Scouts in the community. My week (including today) has been filled with constant deadlines, but this trip, like a few others I’ve taken into the community, remind me of our mission. The work I do benefits girls. The work that our volunteers do (and all the countless hours they contribute) benefits girls. Donors, other nonprofits, and leaders in our community all help the Girl Scouts to reach their mission – empowering one girl at a time on her journey of discovery.

On a final note, thanks to the Tri-County United Fund for allowing the Girl Scouts to be involved in their nonprofit appreciation event. We appreciate foundations like theirs, whose purpose is to better our community.

Dairy Queen Teaches Girl Scouts the Blizzard Basics

Idaho Falls Girl Scouts whip up some delicious Thin Mint Blizzards.

Check out the link here!

National Immunization Awareness Month!

Did you know it is National Immunization Awareness Month? It is! Make sure your girls are up to date on their immunizations.

Check out this link to learn more. http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/events/niam/

Monique Visits Girl Scout Camp

The Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council staff went on retreat for three days for training and some (much needed) R&R. We started with a training-intense filled day at Friendship Square (off Reserve Street in Boise) on Monday and then headed up to Camp Alice Pittenger in McCall on Tuesday and stayed overnight.

The camp experience really brought me back to the 9-year-old Monique who went away to Girl Scout camp in the California foothills many years ago. We sang songs, went swimming, ate s’mores, had incredibly outgoing and fun-loving camp staff, and connected with my peers for giggle-fits and scary trips to the biffy at night. We saw deer, ate huckleberries off the vine, and got bit by blood-thirsty mosquitoes. All-in-all, it was a great retreat. I could go on and on, but I do have to get some grant reports off to foundations who have provided us the opportunity to give low-income girls around the state much needed financial aid. We are grateful to the Whittenberger Foundation, Harry W. Morrison Foundation, CHC Foundation, Idaho Women’s Health and Fitness Education Celebration, and IdaCorps. I’m especially grateful that I have a few more hours to get all the grant documentation out to these generous funders.

I’ll be off for a week of (again, much needed) vacation next week, so no blog on Thursday. I’ll see you all later in August.

Destination Chaco Canyon: A Girl Scout Shares Her Journey

by Katie

Hushed voices speak
Spirits walk within the walls
Echoing footsteps

This is what I wrote after my first day at Chaco Canyon. When I walked up to Pueblo Bonito, I could almost hear the bustle and rush of the Chacoans some 1,000 years ago. Walking inside the rooms, I got an unearthly feeling of being watched, but I somehow knew that whoever was watching respected us in some way. In every poem, in every drawing, I tried to convey how beautiful and mysterious Chaco Canyon and its people are. The entire time at Chaco I felt as if I was in a dream, an adventure that you might see in a movie. The experiences were ones that you think might only happen to other people. But this dream was real, and the experiences happened to me. I connected with the girls there because we were all selected with several criteria in mind: a love for photography, history, archeology, and learning. It was not just the buildings and the people that I was inspired by and loved. The history was touching and the geography was beautiful. I almost lived the history in that week I was at Chaco. I could see the people, I could smell the food, and, most of all, I could imagine them as a society, a group of people that worked together, became a solidified community and then, started to collapse. When Dr. David Stuart of University of New Mexico came to talk, he discussed how the Chacoans’ issues were so like our issues of today. I thought that this was very interesting. When we got up early to go see the solstice at Casa Rincanada, the lighting was beautiful at Fajada Butte. Worn away by the elements, the walls of Chaco Canyon were rugged in some spots and slippery smooth in others. Ancient petroglyphs, carved into the smooth stone, told a story that no one knows how to read. And, together, we all captured our impressions in photographs that we shared on the website we all put together.



Because this was a Girl Scout Destination, I got to experience all this with other girls from all over the United States. It was amazing how quickly we all seemed to get to know each other. We laughed and sang silly songs together as we rode in the car and hiked through the canyon. We played cards together and exchanged SWAPS at camp. We talked about our families and friends and knew, all the while, that we were making new friends that would last a lifetime.



The places I went, the things I did, and people I met, I will never forget.
From the places I went, I take memories
From the things I did, I take experience
From the people I met, I take friendship
From the trip, I take courage character and confidence.
From Girl Scouts, I take all of these things

---

Click here to learn more about Destinations!

“off the Rez…” – Girl Scouts from Duck Valley Indian Reservation attend nationwide conference

by Monique Johns

A little more than a week ago, I had the good fortune to accompany a group of girls and adult leaders from the Duck Valley Indian Reservation to the 52nd Annual American Indian Scouting Association Conference in Pocatello, Idaho. This is a nationwide conference for Girl and Boy Scouts, and it was only the second time in their long history that the conference was held in Idaho.

I was fortunate to meet and get to know the leaders and girls who attended the five day conference. I was surprised (and slightly relieved) to find that the girls from Duck Valley were not unlike other girls I had worked with in the Treasure Valley. They laughed, talked about boys, told silly jokes, and hoped that their summer would never end. They drank “Monster” energy drinks and dressed in jeans, t-shirts and tennis shoes. They played basketball, wore make-up, and sometimes teased each other.

Adrianna, age 11, was one of the younger girls that attended the conference. Her playful demeanor, smile, and laugh made it very obvious that she is at that very precious time in her life when the world seems filled with butterflies and rainbows. But when she donned her “Miss Shoshone Paiute Princess 2009” pageant sash for the Conference powwow and began her fancy shawl dance, a routine steeped in American Indian tradition, Adrianna looked forward, smiled slightly, and remained focused on each movement. I was in awe of both her carefree nature and the homage she paid to her heritage through dance. She represented her tribe and the Girl Scouts beautifully.

I watched Adrianna affectionately hug her mom, the co-leader of the troop, chase after other girls at the conference during a friendly game of “tag,” and obediently follow after some of the older girls who appreciated having a dutiful follower. Like any other girl her age, Adrianna has many sides to her personality. And like any other girl her age, the world is her oyster.

Throughout the duration of the conference, I kept asking myself, “what impact can the Girl Scouts really, truly have on girls who live in such a remote location?” The answer, which I’ve known all along, is this: The only way we can make a difference is to make ourselves available to these girls and to provide support to the adult volunteers who lead them. Girls like Adrianna are the reason the Girl Scouts exist. We provide opportunities for girls to discover themselves and connect with other girls their age. This conference will remain with the girls for many years to come.

The regular membership year will begin in October, which is when the traditional troop program will begin for these participants. Although I was only able to interact with them for less than a week, I feel a very strong bond – the kind that is felt when you meet someone unforgettable. These girls and the adult leaders have slowly grown to trust us more over the last month. We are fortunate to have this trust, and we are going to do everything in our power to assure that we do not lose it.

Final Note
The Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council is appreciative to the Whittenberger Foundation, the Idaho Community Foundation, the Harry W. Morrison Foundation, and the Brown Family Foundation for their contributions to help bring Girl Scout programs to the Duck Valley Indian Reservation.

Girl Scouts Participating in National Public Lands Day Encouraged to Monitor Water

First 100 to Register for NPLD and World Water Monitoring Day will Receive Free Test Kit

Hopefully we are all familiar with the saying, “Water is life.” While true, this phrase could be improved—“Clean water is life.” In the United States and throughout the developed world, people tend to take the availability of clean water for granted. We turn on a faucet and have water to drink, we dive into a lake and don’t get ill—for the most part. How is this possible?

Throughout the U.S., groups of volunteers dedicate their time to monitoring the quality of the nation’s waterways. If something doesn’t look quite right, they investigate and may eventually seek action from environmental agencies to identify and solve the problem. What are these water quality monitors looking for?
While conducting a river clean-up, or working in a park near a body of water for National Public Lands Day (NPLD), why not seize the opportunity to learn a little bit about water quality? It’s easy—simply register for World Water Monitoring Day as well, and order an easy-to-use water quality test kit. Monitor your waterway (along with tens of thousands of others around the globe) and then report your data. Information for how to do this can be found at www.WorldWaterMonitoringDay.org.

In order to encourage more NPLD groups to also take part in World Water Monitoring Day, the program is offering a FREE water test kit to the first 100 groups that register on the WWMD website and identify themselves as being associated with National Public Lands Day.
For more information about WWMD or the free test kit offer, please contact Lorien Walsh at lwalsh@wef.org.

Join the Virtual Book Cafe!

Girl Scouts Virtual Book Cafe!
The Healthy Relationships Book Club will be a program that focuses on relationships portrayed in young adult fiction. Club members will discuss the relationships they read about in selected books and will explore the topics of abusive behavior, warning signs of an unhealthy relationship, and why someone would stay in an unhealthy relationship or choose to be abusive. Book club participants will be reading Dreamland by Sarah Dessenn. The content of these books and the surrounding conversations will include sensitive topics, there for a parental release will be required.

Who: Girl Scouts ages 13 to 15 years
When: The book club will start August 1. Waivers need to be signed and turned in by July 27.
How: We will use a program called WIGGIO and you will be invited to join the book club. You must have an e-mail address and internet access to participate. Please e-mail Annie at anniep@idvsa.org to receive the waiver and further instructions. Books are available upon request for a $5.00 deposit.

Win a Dell Computer!

Win a Dell Desktop Computer through the LMK Online Safety Sweepstakes! Anyone 13 and up is eligible!
Visit http://letmeknow.girlscouts.org/Home.aspx to enter!

Integrity Counts

The Girl Scouts of Silver Sage were highlighted in the Better Business Bureau's Integrity Counts segment on June 20, 2009 on the Fox 12 show Business at its Best. Find out why the Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council were one of five businesses recognized.

Here is the link to the news story. (The segment begins at 17:58 in the video.)

First Impressions Can Truly Make a Difference

by Monique Johns

Three weeks ago, three bicyclists were fatally injured after being struck by cars while riding on Boise streets. In an article dated June 12, the Idaho Statesman reported that Fairview Avenue was among the worst intersections in Boise for cyclist safety. I took to my Twitter account and asked the Ada County Highway District (@ACHD), “What are you (and my taxes) doing about it?”

Quite frankly, I didn’t expect a response. I posted the tweet as more of a rant to spur discussion among other tweeters. I’ve done it (mostly in vain) to seek responses regarding bullying, role models, and in my personal life – coupons. I rarely receive re-tweets, responses, or any other sign that my tweet has been read by anyone outside of my husband or co-workers.

A few days after the “What are you…doing” tweet, I received a Twitter direct message from Robbie Johnson, the ACHD public relations spokesperson, saying, “Hi, I do plan to get back to you on this. A little complex for Twitter.”

Here’s the gem of this story (and a bit of a digression from cycling itself).

About six years ago, I sold shoes at a local boutique to make money while in college. I vividly remember helping Robbie Johnson choose a comfortable pair of shoes that would help her in her job as news anchor for Fox 12. I was star struck, I’m afraid. At the time, I thought people in the media must have been the most intellectual human beings on earth (I’ll have to share my views on that in another blog entry) so understandably, I was in awe of her incredibly down-to-earth, off-screen personality. I never forgot the opportunity I had to sell her the two pairs of practical lace-up shoes in black and brown leather. In short, she gave me some hope that even normal people could work for a news agency. I later went to work for the Idaho Statesman.

Needless to say, after receiving her reply, I felt a bit sheepish for calling out ACHD in my tweet. But I sent her my email address anyway. A few days later she emailed me. I am attaching the letter for anyone who cares to read it because it explains in great detail why cycling along Fairview is a bad idea. You’ll notice that Robbie took the time to contact someone within her organization to offer an alternate route for me.

I believe in customer service. And I believe that Robbie has gone above and beyond in her willingness to not only set the record straight with regard to Fairview Avenue, but to be a truly genuine human being. I hope this serves as an example to everyone who reads this – first impressions can truly make a difference. After all – the person who is selling shoes, or ringing up groceries, or offering any other service, well, they just might end up blogging about you one day.

The text from Robbie’s email is below:

Thanks for contacting me by email. We also had an ACHD Commissioner recently wonder about Fairview also.

You are right, it is not very bike friendly along Fairview. As you have surely noticed, there is a high number of access points (driveways), turning conflicts and high street volume (the number of motor vehicles) on Fairview. This does not make it conducive for encouraging bicycling at this time, which is why there are no bike lanes.

However, ACHD traffic staff analyzed Fairview for bike lanes and concluded that there is room for bike lanes on Fairview between Orchard and Milwaukee except at the Milwaukee and Curtis intersections. However, adding bike lanes is more complicated than simply painting the bike lanes, so there are no immediate plans for this.

However, long term, because Fairview Avenue between Orchard Street in Boise and Linder Road in Meridian has some of the top accident locations in Idaho and hundreds of those driveway accesses to businesses, ACHD is looking to help improve the road by considering access management measures.

ACHD is considering raised medians, half-mile signal spacing, and the relocating of some driveways. Over time left turns may be limited on Fairview after medians are constructed. Motorists will be allowed to make u-turns at signals and between median openings when possible, making it safer and quicker to access businesses. Redesigning, combining and relocating some driveways will also improve traffic flow and safety, plus create easier access. Changes will happen as needed for safety and as redevelopment occurs. This could also make it safer for bicyclists, and looking at bike lanes is part of the access management process.

In the meantime, our traffic department recommends that you use Emerald and Pine and Milwaukee to get to and from work by bike. It is a little out of the way, but these roads do have bike lanes for the most part. The map link below shows the bike lanes. Pine does connect through now to where you need to go. Let me know if this helps and if you have questions.

Bike map: http://www.achd.ada.id.us/PDF/BikewayFacilitiesMapJan09.pdf

Food Banks are a Little Sweeter

Local food banks are cashing in their chips…their Sugar-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies, Thin Mints, and Tagalongs, that is.

Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council, in partnership with J. R. Simplot Company, is donating 2,500 boxes of Girl Scout Cookies to various agencies in Pocatello, Idaho Falls, Twin Falls, and Boise.

Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council is grateful to the J. R. Simplot Company for their support of Girl Scout programs in southern Idaho. This donation is a true reflection of the generosity and compassion that exists within our community.

“What I love about the cookie program is that it allows girls of all ages to set age-appropriate goals, work together as a team, and feel a sense of accomplishment,” said Shelli Rambo Roberson, Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council CEO.

The Girl Scout Cookie program offers Girl Scouts the opportunity to earn money for camp, attend workshops, go on destination travel experiences, or help others in her community. By selling cookies girls learn communication skills, customer service, planning, and leadership. Every year, Girl Scouts offer the community the option to donate their purchased Cookies to the Gift of Caring service project. Cookies that are donated to this campaign are distributed to other community non-profits and military personnel serving overseas.

“[We] are so proud of our cookie program which teaches team-building, money management, goal-setting, marketing and servitude. These are life-long skills that will serve girls as they develop into leaders,” said Shelli Rambo Roberson.

For more information on this event, contact Paige Weber at (208) 377-2011 ext. 126


About the Idaho Foodbank:
The Idaho Foodbank distributes food through its network of 215 partner agencies statewide, including local rescue missions, church pantries and soup kitchens. As it enters its 25th year, the Foodbank system has provided 76 million pounds of food to hungry Idaho families since 1984. Its vision is that no one in Idaho will go hungry.

Girl Scouts Meets Bullying: A Practical Perspective on the Rite of Passage

There are many times in life when making the right decision is difficult.

As a girl, I vividly remember knowing that it was wrong to make fun of fat kids, kids with disabilities, or kids that were a different ethnicity than myself. I am not sure where in my childhood I can pinpoint learning this lesson. I believe this “knowing” comes naturally to nearly every person in childhood. So why are children bullied? Where do they learn this from? But more importantly, what can be done to stop it?

When I was a kid, bullying took the form of taunting, teasing and often times, tears. On a rare occasion, a fist fight broke out. Kids would be sent to the principal’s office and detention dates set. That’s what happened when I was a kid. It was only slightly different for my parents generation and despite frequent headlines, bullying has only changed slightly for today’s generation of young people. Today’s youth have one major difference when it comes to this unfortunate coming-of-age rite of passage: technology.

Kids today have taken bullying to internet social networks like MySpace (dubbed “cyberbullying”). They’ve also gotten the hang of originating and forwarding hurtful (and harmful) text messages. The primary difference between the last two generations of young people, however, is that today’s technology allows bullying messages to linger, to be seen by more people, and to nearly eliminate face-to-face confrontation.

Sending kids to the principal’s office used to be a fair punishment. Parents would become involved and kids would work out the problems through conflict resolution or finding new groups of friends. Today, we’ve invented a new vocabulary to describe the catastrophic aftermath of bullying – Columbine and “bullycide” (a suicide caused by bullying and depression) come to mind whenever I discuss this issue with peers. Although the stakes have become even higher in today’s ever-connected world, I believe the brunt of burden has, and always will, lie with bystanders to bullying.

What does this mean for Girl Scouts? The Girl Scout Promise states, “On my honor, I will try…to help people at all times.” I believe this promise applies to all forms of peer pressure and bullying. It is the most difficult position, and yet, the most rewarding – to help a fellow person in need…to stand up and say, “This isn’t cool,” “You’re being mean and hurtful,” or, “Leave her alone, seriously.”

I’d like to hear from girls who have been a bystander, a bully, or bullied by someone else. What do you think? Chime in to this conversation and check back to see what your peers are saying about this.


by Monique Johns

In the News . . .

Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council in Pocatello made the news with their Mom & Me Tea Party.

Here is the link to the story http://www.kpvi.com/Global/story.asp?S=10606977

Summer Job Opening

Sailboat Instructor:
Must be 18 years of age.
Must have current CPR and First Aid Certification.
Must have certification in small water craft/dingy certification or proof of knowledge of sailboat instruction.
Position is located in McCall, Idaho
Dates of employment are July 7-Aug. 14

Will instruct campers on sailing skills on one man dingy sailboats, be responsible for safety of campers while on open water in sailboat instruction. Must be knowledgeable in maintenance of sailboats. Must have open water sailboat experience. Preferred but not necessary: Sailing experience on Payette Lake in McCall, Idaho.

*Must be able to pass a thorough criminal background check. There must not be any blemish on your record for at least five years. Do not apply if you think you will not pass the background check.


Pay is $250-290 per week DOE + room and board

For more information please contact:

Sheila Kibler
Director of Property and Camps
Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council
skibler@girlscouts-ssc.org
208-377-2011 Ext. 129

GIRL SCOUTS KICK OFF SUMMER WITH TRIENNIAL CELEBRATION!

FILER, ID – Imagine walking through a sea of tents, the aroma of dinner lingering in the air above outdoor cook stoves, and the giggles of girls ringing like church bells on a fall day. This was the scene at Jubilation, the Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council’s triennial troop camping event that occurred last weekend in Filer, Idaho.

“Jubilation is a three day encampment for girls from ages 6 to 17. We offer programs to build on courage, confidence, and character and really focus on leadership skills for the girls,” said Tami Bergen, Jubilation Director. This volunteer run event included over 900 girls, 300 leaders, and Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council staff members.

Girls took part in a variety of activities including Bubble Blast, a fun activity on the art of creating bubbles; Wet and Wild, a science learning project where girls dissected owl pellets and learned about reptiles and owls; and Amazing Journeys, an obstacle course encouraging the development of teambuilding activities. Older Girl Scouts had the opportunity to visit College of Southern Idaho’s ropes course and took part in the Build a Boat activity, where they worked as a team to build boats from cardboard and duct tape, assisting teammates across a pool.

The three day event was a success. “Even though it rained you [could] look around and see girls having a fabulous time,” said Tami Bergen.

Mom & Me Bogus Basin Yurt Camping

Are you a parent interested in learning some of the basic skills necessary to take you and your children into the great outdoors? If yes then come join us for a fun family-oriented educational camping event at the Bogus Basin Yurt!

This summer Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area and the Girl Scouts have teamed up to create an exciting new camping education program. You and your child will spend two nights in the Boise National Forest but only have to travel 16 miles from downtown Boise. Learn to setup your own camp, cook meals using backcountry equipment, utilize a fully equipped backcountry yurt, apply Leave No Trace etiquette, relax and hike the trails surrounding Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area. Participants will sleep in tents but have the 12 person Bogus Basin yurt (a large circular cabin) available as a back-up. Participants are required to bring all clothing, personal items, tents (sleeping bags, etc.), and food. All other equipment is provided!

Instructors for this event are Peg Havlovick and Kerry McClay. Peg is a nordic ski instructor, river guide trainer, Wilderness First Responder and the Director of Year Round Education at Bogus Basin. Kerry McClay, M.A., is a graduate of Outward Bound and Prescott College courses in outdoor leadership and is trained as a Wilderness EMT through the National Outdoor Leadership School.


Dates: Friday July 10th (6PM) - Sunday July 12th (Noon)

Where: Meet at the Bogus Basin Frontier Point Nordic Lodge on Friday

Who: All Girl Scouts going into 4th, 5th, or 6th grades (and their mom)!

Cost: $75 per participant (no financial assistance available).

Capacity: 8 girls and 8 adults

Questions: Kerry McClay or Peg Havlovick at 208-332-5190

Registration Deadline: Thursday, July 2, 2009.

Registrations should be sent to Carol at cashton@girlscouts-ssc.org or by calling (208) 377-2011 Ext. 121. For more information and the registration form, visit www.girlscouts-ssc.org, click on the ÒCamp ProgramsÓ tab. For additional information, contact Kerry McClay at (208) 332-5190 .

For a supply list and schedule see the Bogus Basin Yurt Camping Adventure! Flyer

Congratulations Volunteers & Leaders

Every year at our annual meeting we highlight outstanding service from our very special volunteers and leaders! Join us in celebrating this year's award winners.

The Recognitions Committee Awards for 2008

The Outstanding Service to the Community Award is only given to adult Girl Scout members who have performed service, above and beyond the expectations of the positions held, have benefitted community groups, and have promoted Girl Scouting.

Outstanding Service to the Community – Anna Scholes



The Betty Boyd Memorial Award is given to those leaders or co-leaders who have already received the Outstanding Leader Award, but whose performance continues to be so outstanding that it merits recognition by the board of directors.

Betty Boyd Award – Sandi Aspiri

Betty Boyd Award – Cindy Crum



The Jo McAtee Memorial Pin recognizes an adult member who has delivered consistent, outstanding leadership service to a geographic region surrounding her service unit. The service benefits all girls in the region, forwards the Girl Scout Movement, and contributes to the council’s strategic goals and annual objectives.

Jo McAtee Memorial Pin – Susan Baisch




The Appreciation Pin recognizes an adult whose service is outstanding, above and beyond the expectations for the position held, is delivered to at least one geographic area, service unit or program delivery audience, and contributes to the council’s goals and objectives.

Appreciation Pin – Shannon Bassista

Appreciation Pin – Mary Frances Cozako

Appreciation Pin – Judy Lou Davis

Appreciation Pin – Carol Malone

Appreciation Pin – Therese Radford

Appreciation Pin – Cindy Rockefeller

Appreciation Pin – Katrina Shiner

Appreciation Pin – Donna Smith



The Honor Pin recognizes an adult member whose service has been outstanding, beyond the expectations of the position held, is delivered to two or more geographic areas, service units or program delivery audiences, and contributes to the council’s goals and objectives.

Honor Pin – Colleen Parrish



The Thanks Badge recognizes an adult member whose service has been consistently outstanding in scope and quality. The service performed benefits the entire council or the entire Girl Scout organization, and is so significantly above and beyond the call of duty that no other award would be appropriate.


Thanks Badge – Nancy Bogdanski

Girls Scouts Mom & Me Tea Party in Pocatello

GIRL SCOUT “MOM AND ME TEA PARTY” DAY CAMP

POCATELLO, IDAHO: Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council will be holding a Day Camp for girls and their moms on June 27th, 2009 from 11:00 AM to 3:00PM at 555 South 1st, Pocatello, Idaho.

Activities will include:
• Making Rhodes Bread dough creations with Rhodes Bread.
• Making Tea Party treats.
• Decorating Tea Party hats.
• Learning Tea Part etiquette.
• Having a Mom and Me Tea party.

Price will be $12.00 per girl for the Day Camp and $10.00 for girls to enroll in Girl Scouts.


Event Details

Date: June 27, 2009

Time: 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Location: 555 South 1st, Pocatello, Idaho

Child Price: $12.00 + $10.00 to register as a Girl Scout

Adult Price: Free

Organization: Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council

Event Description
GIRL SCOUTS OF SILVER SAGE COUNCIL
555 South 1st
Pocatello, Idaho

Contact: Stephanie Richardson
Phone: (208) 234-9076

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Girl Scout Cookies + Baseball = Fun, Fun, Fun!

GIRL SCOUTS AND BOISE HAWKS TEAM UP TO OFFER THE COMMUNITY SOME ECONOMIC RELIEF ….. FREE COOKIES!



BOISE, ID – The Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council are teaming up with the Boise Hawks to bring $10 ticket holders a free box of Girl Scout Cookies at the Tuesday, June 30, 2009 game! That’s right – just $10 for an entertaining night out (in a seat under the shade) and some delicious Cookies!

To receive a free box of Girl Scout Cookies, go to www.girlscouts-ssc.org to print out a coupon, stop by the Boise office at 1410 Etheridge Lane, or call 377-2011 to pre-pay for your ticket. All ticket-buyers MUST bring that coupon to the box office on June 30, 2009 in order to receive cookies. Anyone can make copies of the coupon, pass it out, email it, and forward it on to family, friends, co-workers, etc. There is no limit to the number of coupons used – but only one coupon per person.

This is the first time the Girl Scouts and the Boise Hawks have come together for this type of event. For every $10 ticket sold, the Girl Scouts will receive $2 back toward financial aid for low-income girls to participate in youth development programs.

The Girl Scout Cookie sale provides opportunities for a Girl Scout to earn money for camp, attend workshops, go on destination travel experiences, or help others in her community. By selling cookies girls learn communication skills, customer service, planning, goal setting, money management, and leadership.

Upcoming Programs in July

Summer Service Projects available!

Need something to do this summer? Would you like to contribute to your community by helping with a one day project?

Here’s your chance! Journal Broadcast Group needs your help!

Clean up Anne Morrison Park, Boise, Idaho

Who: Girl Scouts wanting to do community service! Organize your troop, friends and family to help!
What: Clean up Anne Morrison Park
When: 8am to Noon on July 5, 2009
Why: You don't have to wait for Earth Day to do some green good around your community. And you may be featured on the radio for your efforts!
Contact: To sign up or have questions please call Sandy at 208-867-1299
Please call before June 21

A Treehouse: Horticultural Therapy and Education

What: Come join the Girl Scouts as they discover the world of Horticulture. This will be one of a three part series learning how a garden changes with the seasons. For this first session take a ‘jungle tour’, a garden tour, and participate in plant related activities that happen in fall!

Who: Girl Scout Daisies and Brownies

Where: A Treehouse, 722 Valli Hi Rd., Eagle, ID 83616

When: all programs are 10am-12pm


Saturday, July 18th -- Tour, check for weeds in gardens that they planted, harvest veggies that are ready, build Know and Show sombreros from newspaper (to take home), make mint juleps (mint lemonade) from mint collected in the garden.

Cost: $7 per girl per session includes participation patch.

Other Information: This is a great location for an outdoor picnic, after the program feel free to bring snacks or bagged lunch and enjoy the gardens! Dress for the weather, we will be outside!



Treasure Valley Community Baby Shower

Who: Girl Scouts and their family and friends
What: Community Baby Shower-held at Albertson food stores – this is similar to a food drive where volunteers stand inside the grocery store to ask for baby supplies such as diapers, formula, baby wipes, etc.
When: July 21, 2009 – Sign up anytime from 5am to 6pm
Why: Women and babies need our support! And you may be featured on the radio for your efforts!
Contact: To sign up or have questions please call Sandy at 208-867-1299
Please call before June 21

GSSSC is Seeking Five Youth Development Positions

Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council

The Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council are currently seeking five VISTAs to deliver Girl Scout programs to youth in the Treasure Valley, Magic Valley, and Pocatello. You do not have to currently be an AmeriCorps VISTA to apply – however, you will ultimately need to fill out their application and be accepted into the program. We are looking for people to begin their training as early as July 1, 2009. Potential Applicants must be available to attend training in Salem, Oregon on July 6-9, 2009. All expenses are paid for VISTA trainings.

We need the following VISTAS:

- Treasure Valley: Membership and Youth Development Program Coordinator **This position has been filled.

- Magic Valley: Membership and Youth Development Program Coordinator **This position has been filled.

- Pocatello: Membership and Youth Development Program Coordinator

- Treasure Valley: Hispanic and American Indian Outreach Coordinator

- Magic Valley: Hispanic and American Indian Outreach Coordinator

If you are interested in becoming a VISTA member , please submit your resume to our organization ASAP. This is a full-time, year-long commitment which requires a successful background check, experience working with youth, and applicable trainings. We are looking to fill these five positions ASAP.

Summary of Positions: This person will work in cooperation with the Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council staff and volunteers in the Treasure Valley area to help expand Girl Scouts programs and increase membership. This is the only all-girl program in Idaho that provides opportunities for girls to learn problem solving, conflict resolution, communication, teamwork, leadership and to be empowered to make healthy, positive decisions in their lives. Girls develop and learn under the guidance of a positive adult mentor, during or immediately after school.

Other responsibilities include membership outreach and youth development support as needed.

Restrictions:
Cannot be full time students
Cannot be employed outside their VISTA work
Cannot be involved in lobbying or partisan political activity subject to the Hatch provisions

Benefits/Living Allowance for Volunteer:
• Insurance – VISTA volunteers are provided health benefits at no cost to the volunteer for injuries and illness. The purpose is to provide essential health care services. Pre-existing medical conditions are not covered and coverage cannot be extended to dependents.
• Optional life insurance coverage is available for a cost of $2.07 bi-weekly, paid by the volunteer
• Living Allowance – Will receive a subsistence allowance every other week to pay for food, housing and personal expenses. This allowance is subject to Federal and Idaho State Income taxes. You will receive a monthly allowance of $833 (approximately $384 gross pay every two weeks over 26 pay periods per year. Net pay should be about $357 each pay period depending on withholding rates and life insurance options.
• Stipend/Education Award – If you choose the stipend you will be credited with $100 per month of service to assist them when they complete their service- this stipend is maintained as a savings account and paid to the volunteer in the last two allowance checks – you must complete the full 12 months of service to receive this stipend. The Education award is a voucher in the amount of $4725 per year of VISTA service. If selected, this will replace the stipend accrual of $1200 paid at the end of service.
• Child Care – those who qualify are eligible to receive up to $400 per month per child for child care voucher reimbursements which is paid to the child care provider
• Personal and Sick Leave – you would be entitled to 10 working days of personal leave during each full year of service – you are also entitled to 10 days of sick leave during each full year of VISTA service.

Splash into summer fun with Girl Scout Camp!

Splash into summer fun with Girl Scout Camp!

Check out what our camps have to offer on our Camp Information page.

You will also find valuable information in our 2009 Camp Brochure .

What are you waiting for? Get your fun-meter ticking!

Girl Scouts & Microsoft Partner to Keep Girls Safe Online

LMK (“let me know”) is an online safety campaign created in partnership with Girl Scouts of the USA and Microsoft. The campaign includes an interactive Web site for girls, as well as an e-newsletter and web site for adults. Girls can learn how to be stay safe online, while their parents can subscribe to a newsletter, written by girls. The newsletter will help parents gather tips and tools to help keep their families safer online.

Girls can visit the web site just for them http://lmk.girlscouts.org.

Parents can find great information at http://letmeknow.girlscouts.org

Congratulations Dakota Barnes!

Congratulations are in order to Dakota Barnes for being named the Youth Citizen of the Year by the Sun Valley/Ketchum Chamber & Visitors Bureau and the Hailey Chamber of Commerce. Dakota is a sophomore at Wood River High School and an outstanding Girl Scout, currently serving as a Senior Girl Scout Member on the Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council Board of Directors. Not only was Dakota heavily involved in volunteering for the 2009 Special Olympics, but she also volunteers for the Wood River Arts Alliance, the Sun Valley Jazz Festival, Lee Pesky Scavenger Hunt, and the Holiday Basket program, just to name a few. Suffice it to say, Dakota is active and involved in her community.


Below is a video of Dakota accepting the Youth Citizen of the Year Award.





Visit the sunvalleyonline.com here for the link to the whole story.

Why should you give to Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council?

Interested in donating to the Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council?
Click here to donate.

Leader Appreciation Day

Join us for some cake and goodies, celebrating our leaders!






Do well your part today, the work of today is the history of tomorrow, and we are its makers . . .

You have done your part well helping us make tomorrow better for every girl.

Thank you to our volunteers who are making a difference with girls and their communities.

Girl Scouts Meeting with Inmates at PWCC

KIDK in Pocatello highlights the Girl Scouts Behind Bars program. Please see the link below for video and the story.

http://www.kidk.com/news/42934147.html?video=pop&t=a

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Story by Wes Horrocks of KIDK

POCATELLO - A new Girl Scout troop is being organized in Pocatello, and unlike most troops they'll spend one day a month at the Pocatello Women's Correctional Center.

The girls are part of a program called Girl Scouts Beyond Bars, and will actually be at the prison to spend time building relationships with their moms. Tami Romriell, Assistant to the Warden and organizer of the program said, "I've been working on this since last year."

Six inmates and 10 girls, ages five to 16, are involved in the new program.

At Saturday's first meeting the girls and their mothers learned to trust through a blindfolded Easter egg hunt. Romriell said, "I wanted to make sure as much as possible that they were going to be good mothers when they got back."

But the inmates and their daughters aren't the only ones benefiting. People assigned to care for the girls are also happy about the new program. "For many of them this is their daughter that's up here, that's incarcerated. So they certainly want their daughters to be better," said Romriell.

The program follows a handbook designed to help mothers and their daughters reconnect.
Stephanie Richardson, Marketing and Membership Specialist with the Silver Sage Girl Scouts Council said, "We're really trying to get them to communicate again, build trust back up again."Romriell added, "Just a lot of different activities that help that bond become stronger again."The idea for the special girl scout troop started in Maryland in 1992. Now 40 councils across the country are involved. Richardson said, "Even if we only teach them one skill they can build on that, and we've made a difference."

And organizers are excited to watch everyones progress. "I actually totally forgot I was up at the women's prison," said Richardson.

Eyewitness News will continue to follow this troop in the future and let you know how they're doing.

Also, troop leaders are looking for community volunteers to help out with the new program.

JOIN THE GIRL SCOUTS FOR SUMMER CAMP INFORMATION NIGHTS

BOISE, ID – The majestic songs of birds, visions of chartreuse budding flowers, and the excitement of Girl Scout Summer Camp all signal that spring is here and summer is on the way.

Whether your daughter is a first time camper, or a returning camp veteran, plan to attend the Girl Scout Camp Information Nights, which will be held:

• 5:30 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, March 31, 2009 at Holy Rosary Medical Center, 351 SW Ninth Street, Ontario, OR.
  
  
• 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, April 1, 2009 at Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Friendship Square at 610 Reserve Street, Boise.
  
  
• 6 to 8 p.m., Thursday, April 2, 2009 at Grace Episcopal Church at 411 10th Ave S., Nampa.

• 6 to 8 p.m., Monday, April 6, 2009 at the Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Idaho Falls office at 320 B Street, Suite 110, Idaho Falls.
  
• 6 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, April 7, 2009 at the Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Pocatello office at 555 1st Ave S., Pocatello.
  
• 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, April 8, 2009 at the Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Twin Falls office at 143 4th Ave. W., Twin Falls.

The Girl Scout camping season kicks off July 12 and continues through August 14. The Camp Information Nights are for everyone, Girl Scouts and non-Girl Scouts alike. Parents and girls will be treated to a special seminar on how, and what, to pack for their week away in the wilderness. Other topics include affordability, financial aid, food service, health and safety, family/group camp, and the American Camp Association accreditation. Learn what each Girl Scout Camp, Camp Alice Pittenger and Camp Ta-Man-a-Wis, have to offer.

For more information about the Girl Scout camp program contact Sheila Kibler at 208-377-2011, ext. 129 or email skibler@girlscouts-ssc.org. Visit www.girlscouts-ssc.org to view the camp brochure.

Great Article in the Times ENews

'Security' in language
Refugees learn more than ABCs from volunteer tutors

Story by Erica Littlefield
Photos by Justin Jackson

On most Wednesday nights, the home of the Kabakoro family in Twin Falls is abuzz with lively conversations.

Adults gather in the inviting living room, while teenagers and young adults talk around the large dining table. Earlier this month, they chatted about everything from the nicest person in their family to their favorite sports.

These aren't idle conversations. They are part of a series of English lessons for refugees organized by 16-year-old Hosanna Kabakoro. The group meets in the Kabakoros' home and has students of all ages from places from Nepal to Thailand to Burma. Through the classes, the students are not only learning English, but integrating into the community.


Read the rest of the story here.

Girl Scout Week--March 8-12

Girl Scout Week will be celebrated around the globe March 8 to 14, 2009. Local leaders will help celebrate 97 years of Girl Scouting in America by signing the Girl Scout Proclamation among honored guests, including local Girl Scouts.

Caldwell -- Mayor Garret Nancolas will sign the proclamation at 4:30 p.m., Monday, March 9, 2009 at City Hall, 411 Blaine St., Caldwell.

Boise -- Mayor Dave Bieter will sign the proclamation at 4 p.m., Tuesday, March 10, 2009 in the Bonneville Room at City Hall, 150 N. Capitol Blvd., Boise.

Nampa -- Mayor Tom Dale will sign the proclamation at 4:15 p.m., Thursday, March 12, 2009 at City Hall, 411 3rd St. South, Nampa.

A fan of cookies, girl scouts, dogs and firemen? C'mon, who isn't?

Submitted by Anna Webb on Fri, 02/27/2009 - 9:38am.

Help girl scouts raise “A Mile of Cookies” on Saturday
For the last five years, girls from Boise Girl Scout Cadette Troop 396 have donated cookies to cancer patients at St. Luke's Mountain States Tumor Institute. Local residents have helped the effort by buying cookies to be donated.

Over the years this has meant more than 1,400 boxes of Thin Mints and other delights going to MSTI patients.

The troop is holding a special sale, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., on Saturday (Feb. 28) at the Milwaukee Marketplace, 1085 N. Milwaukee St., in front of the new JoAnn Fabrics Store in Boise.
The goal is to get you, and yours, to buy enough boxes of cookies to measure a mile, were the boxes were stacked end to end.

You can buy a box for $3.71. Buying $20 worth of cookies will mean adding about a yard to that ambitious mile. One hundred dollars will add 17 feet. Five hundred dollars will add 84 feet.
Feel like pitching in? Show up on Saturday. This year's donations will go to MSTI, but also other organizations in the Valley, including homeless shelters, food banks, the Idaho Veterans’ Home and senior citizens through the Meals on Wheels program.

See the Statesman article here: http://voices.idahostatesman.com/2009/02/27/awebb/fan_cookies_girl_scouts_and_dogs_do_we_have_charitable_weekend_y

Employment Opportunities at Camp!

A Seasonal Food Service Manager is needed for Girl Scout camp in McCall, Idaho. Qualified applicant must have at least one year experience in the food industry and be at least 21 years of age. Camp and outdoor cooking experience helpful. Specific duties include: Ordering food on a strict budget for a camp of up to 175 people per week, creating a healthy menu, creating specialized menus including vegetarian and gluten free meals, cooking meals three times per day, supervising a staff of up to five people, and in charge of day to day clean-up of kitchen.

Dates of camp will be: July 8 through August 14

Please contact: Sheila Kibler Camp Manager
Girl Scouts of Silver Sage 208-377-2011 Ext. 129 skibler@girlscouts-ssc.org
Location: McCall, Idaho
Compensation: $350-390 per week DOE + room and board

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A Seasonal Assistant Food Service Manager is needed for Girl Scout camp in McCall, Idaho. Qualified applicant must have at least six months experience in the food industry and be at least 18 years of age. Camp and outdoor cooking experience helpful. Specific duties include: Assisting Food Service Manager with creating a healthy menu, creating specialized menus including vegetarian and gluten free meals, cooking meals three times per day for up to 175 people per week, and helping with day to day clean-up of kitchen.

Dates of camp will be: July 8 through August 14

Please contact: Sheila Kibler Camp Manager
Girl Scouts of Silver Sage 208-377-2011 Ext. 129 skibler@girlscouts-ssc.org
Location: McCall, Idaho
Compensation: $270-310 per week DOE + room and board

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Camp Nurses needed for Girl Scout camps in McCall and Salmon Idaho. Qualified candidates will hold a LPN or RN certification in the state of Idaho. Must have current adult and child CPR and first-aid certifications. Specific duties: Health care of campers and staff at week long and/or weekend camps. Will review health forms and screen campers as they enter camp for lice, foot fungus, etc. Will administer prescription and over the counter medication to campers and staff. Will coordinate with area hospital or clinic for emergency care. Dates of camps: May 27 through June 27 and July 8 through August 14 Number of available positions: 7 Weeks Available: Pine Creek Ranch, Salmon, Idaho 5/27-30 5/31-6/5 6/7-12 6/14-20 6/21-26 Camp Alice Pittenger, McCall, Idaho 7/26-8/1 8/2-8

Please contact: Sheila Kibler Camp Manager
Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council
skibler@girlscouts-ssc.org 208-377-2011 Ext. 129

Location: Salmon, Idaho; McCall, Idaho

Compensation: $65 per day + room and board

Girl Scouts Partners with Nickelodeon to Promote The Big Green Help Campaign

Girl Scouts of the USA along with 11 other campaign partners are joining Nickelodeon to engage kids in The Big Green Help campaign. The Big Green Help is Nickelodeon network’s multiplatform pro-social campaign designed to empower kids to participate in earth-friendly and energy saving activities.

Starting January 1, 2009, Nickelodeon will air green-themed messages and promotional spots throughout every single programming break, all day long, as well as introduce a series of original, environmentally-themed online games. The Girl Scouts/iCarly Cafeteria Recycodrama online mini-game has been developed in order to educate kids on how they can make the world a better place by helping their schools go green.

All year long, The Big Green Help will provide information and tools across all of Nickelodeon’s multiple platforms to help explain climate change to kids, and to connect them to ways they can help at home, in school and communities. The centerpiece of The Big Green Help campaign will be the forthcoming, first-of-its-kind global multiplayer online green game for kids, which will provide actionable, measurable steps and information to directly link players to ways they can positively contribute to helping the environment in a variety of ways, on both individual and community levels.

Girl Scouts will also help extend the campaign’s reach through local grassroots activities and programs where kids can fulfill their online virtually volunteered hours throughout the year.

To play the game and help your kids learn how they can be a part of this initiative, visit http://www.biggreenhelp.com/, go to the “Games” section, and click on the iCarly/Girl Scouts icon.

For more information, agong@girlscouts.org.

GIRL SCOUTS PARTNER WITH IDAHO CENTRAL CREDIT UNION

BOISE, ID – The Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council are teaming up with Idaho Central Credit Union to provide Girl Scouts at Lowell Elementary with a six week money management program. Beginning January 21, 2009, fourth and fifth grade girls participating in the Girl Scout Visions program will learn about financial accountability once a week during their lunch hour.

The Visions program focuses on providing girls with the tools to make healthy life decisions, touching on topics such as: self-esteem, bullying, friendships, and body image. ICCU will provide “girl-friendly” training on customer service, entrepreneurship, money management, sales, and marketing that girls can put in action during the Girl Scout Cookie Program, which is ongoing through March.

“It is an honor to be involved in this program. The Girl Scouts are taking a pro-active approach to educate girls in our community and provide information on important topics, including financial education. Together we can help these youth develop strong, positive habits for their future,” stated Michael Watson with Idaho Central Credit Union.

For more information call Brooke Green at 208-377-2011 ext. 106.

GIRL SCOUTS POUND THE PAVEMENT SELLING COOKIES

Ding dong! It is that time of year again when your doorbell rings and there stands a Girl Scout, sporting her sash and patches, ready to take your order for Girl Scout Cookies. Not only is this an opportunity to order your favorites like Samoas and Thin Mints, but it gives girls the opportunity to gain valuable entrepreneurial and leadership skills.

But are the cookies safe?

Yes. The Girl Scouts are happy to report that Girl Scout Cookies are safe to eat and have not been affected by the recent Salmonella outbreak. Peanut Corporation of America is the focus of the FDA investigation and does not supply peanut butter for any variety of Girl Scout cookies.

Why should you purchase Girl Scout Cookies? Other than being delicious, and only being sold for a couple months of the year, the most compelling reason to buy Girl Scout Cookies is what it can do for the cutie on your doorstep. For every box of cookies sold it is an opportunity for a Girl Scout to earn money for camp, attend workshops, go on destination travel experiences, or help others in her community. The Gift of Caring service project allows girls the opportunity to donate boxes of cookies to benefit other community non-profits, or service men and women overseas. By selling cookies girls learn communication skills, customer service, planning, goal setting, money management, and leadership.

Maybe the question to ask is, “Why wouldn’t you buy Girl Scout Cookies?”

“What I love about the cookie program is it allows girls of all ages to set age-appropriate goals, work together as a team, and feel a sense of accomplishment,” said Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council CEO, Shelli Rambo Roberson.


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If you don't have a Girl Scout in your neighborhood visit http://www.girlscoutcookies.org/ to get in touch with a Council near you. You may also http://cookielocator.littlebrownie.com/ to find a a booth near you.

GSSSC Girl Scout Cookie Recipe Contest!

Recipe Contest Official Rules

What: Girl Scouts of all ages are invited to enter their best Girl Scout Cookie recipe to be judged by Molly Moo, the Dairy Council
Mascot and Maxwell the Moose, the St. Luke’s Children’s Mascot. The recipe contest winner will be featured in a short story in the Idaho Press Tribune. The article’s focus will be on how girls are using their cookie bonuses and/or if they are participating in the Gift of Caring.

Who: All Girl Scouts may enter (individual or troops are allowed).

When: Written recipes need to be turned into the Council by Friday, February 27th. Entries may be mailed to: Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council, 1410 Etheridge Lane, Boise, ID 83704. Submissions may also be faxed to (208) 377-0504 or emailed to Melissa Opland at mopland@girlscouts-ssc.org.

Where: The top 10 recipe winners will be notified and asked to bring their prepared desserts to Council headquarters by 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 12, 2009. The recipes will be judged and winners will be announced the very next day. The winning Girl Scout Cookie Recipe finalist will be notified by phone.

Rules: Each recipe is required to include one or more varieties of Girl Scout Cookies in it. Recipes will be judged on taste, presentation, and how well the Girl Scout Cookie is incorporated into the recipe. Each recipe entry needs to be submitted to Melissa Opland by February 27th. The Teen Advisory Committee will then choose the top 10 recipes to be prepared and brought to Council for judging. What are you waiting for? Get cookie’n!

Download a copy of the poster here.

Got Cookies? Find a booth near you!

Visit http://cookielocator.littlebrownie.com/ and find a Girl Scout Cookie booth near you!

Girl Scout Cookies Not Affected By Peanut Butter Warning

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 19, 2009

Girl Scouts of the USA
Michelle Tompkins
212-852-5074
mtompkins@girlscouts.org

NEW YORK, NY—Neither licensed baker affiliated with Girl Scout® Cookies ABC Interbake and Little Brownie Bakers source their peanut butter from the supplier involved in the current peanut butter warning.

FDA and other regulatory agencies have indicated that Peanut Corporation of America (PCA) is the focus of their investigation concerning a recent Salmonella outbreak thought to be caused by tainted peanut butter. PCA does not supply peanut butter used in any variety of Girl Scout® cookies.

Food safety and quality are of the utmost importance to us. The Girl Scout® Cookie Program is the nation’s premier entrepreneurship and educational program for girls and we appreciate your support in your local communities.

For more information on where to get Girl Scout cookies, go to www.girlscoutcookies.org.

About Girl Scouts:

Founded in 1912, Girl Scouts of the USA is the preeminent leadership development organization for girls with 3.6 million girl and adult members worldwide. Girl Scouts is the leading authority on girls' healthy development, and builds girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. The organization serves girls from every corner of the United States and its territories. Girls Scouts of the USA also serves American girls and their classmates attending American or international schools overseas in 90 countries. For more information on how to join, volunteer, reconnect or donate to Girl Scouts, call (800) GSUSA 4 U (800-478-7248) or visit www.girlscouts.org.

The Impact of the Presidential Election on Girl Scouts

Girl Scouts of Silver Sage Council--Employees Tune Into Inauguration Speech





GIRLS INSPIRED BY THE 2008 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION
According to a new survey of 3,284 youth (2,309 girls, 975 boys) ages 13-17:


• Most girls (59%) say the election has increased their confidence in being able to achieve their goals in the future.

• Most girls (55%) say the election has increased their comfort level in speaking up and expressing their opinions on issues that matter to them.

• Most girls (51%) say the election has boosted their confidence in their ability to change things in the country.

• Half of girls (50%) report increased interest in politics as a result of the election.

• More than four in 10 girls (46%) think more highly of women’s ability to lead than they did before the election.

• More than four in 10 girls (46%) report increased interest in social and political activism as a result of the election.

• More than four in 10 girls (44%) report increased interest in community service or volunteer activity as a result of the election.

• More than four in 10 girls (41%) say that the election has had a positive impact on their desire to be a leader.

• Nearly two in three girls (65%) expect President-elect Obama to bring positive change to the country.

• Girl Scouts are more likely than other girls to think they have a high chance of becoming President (55% of Girl Scouts versus 35% of non-Girl Scouts).



The survey was commissioned by the Girl Scout Research Institute and conducted from Nov. 11 – Dec. 2, 2008 by the market research firm Fluent. The survey consisted of online interviews with 3,284 young people between the ages of 13 and 17, and steps were taken to ensure that those surveyed were representative of the general population of young people in the United States.

Girl Scout Cookies are Available for Pre-Order!

Get Your Samoas, Tagalongs, and Thin Mints Now!

Girl Scout Cookies are available for pre-order January 9 to 25, 2009! Click here or go to http://girlscoutcookies.org/ to find the council nearest you to order your cookies today!

Questions? Contact us.

Boise (208)377-2011
Twin Falls (208) 733-9623
Pocatello (208) 234-9076
Idaho Falls (208) 524-4649

World Thinking Day 2009: February 22

World Thinking Day 2009: February 22

Each year on February 22, girls participate in activities, games and projects with global themes to honor their sister Girl Guides and Girl Scouts in other countries.
The theme for World Thinking Day 2009 is girls worldwide say "we can stop the spread of AIDS, malaria and other diseases."

World Thinking Day is part of the WAGGGS Global Action Theme (GAT) based on the UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), which aim to improve the lives of the world's poorest people.

This year, girls voted and selected Costa Rica, Fiji, Ireland, Jordan and Kenya to represent the five regions of World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS)—Western Hemisphere, Asia/Pacific, Europe, the Arab region and Africa. World Thinking Day not only gives girls a chance to celebrate international friendships, but it is also a reminder that Girl Scouts of the USA is part of a global community—one of nearly 150 countries with Girl Guides and Girl Scouts.

Visit: http://www.girlscouts.org/world_thinking_day/


Information provided by Girl Scouts Online Council Network