Author Archives: Jessica Miano

Celebrate National Aviation Day with Gold Award Girl Scout Autumn Pepper Rhodes [Gold Award Spotlight]

by Jessica Miano
Gold Award Girl Scout Autumn Pepper Rhodes was honored at the 2023 Young Women of Distinction Awards Ceremony.

In 1939, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt established National Aviation Day by presidential proclamation designating the anniversary of Orville Wright’s birthday for the observance. Orville and Wilbur successfully flew the first powered airplane, which they invented after four years of research and development, in 1903.

120 years later, aviation has changed quite a bit. According to the latest estimates, there are approximately 100,000 flights per day in the U.S.. An estimated 617,000 citizens hold active pilot certificates, Gulfcoast Girl Scout Autumn Pepper Rhodes being one of them.

Rhodes has been advocating for girls and women to experience more opportunities in the field of aviation.

“As a student pilot, I noticed the discrepancy in women mentors for young people interested in aviation,” she said. “I wanted to introduce aviation to young women in my community, create a community of mentors for them to look up to, and to advocate for an aviation career badge and the modification of regulations concerning flight in private aircraft within the Girl Scout program.”

She hosted three workshops in her community for young women to learn about engineering and aviation and invited successful women pilots as speakers to inspire interest in aviation among girls. Autumn’s workshops gave girls the opportunity to learn about careers in engineering and aviation and take part in a discovery flight experience. She also created a website filled with videos, education resources, and scholarship information for girls interested in aviation.

Autumn started an online petition urging GSUSA to lift the safety restrictions and allow discovery flights as a girl scout activity. To date, Autumn has collected over 1000 signatures to convince GSUSA to change their safety regulations to allow girls to fly airplanes as part of Girl Scout programming.

Autumn earned her Gold Award in March 2023, but she continues her advocacy to this day.

“This experience has inspired me and proved that I am able to make a difference in my community. I plan to continue advocating for aviation in Girl Scouting and press the Board of Directors to implement an aviation career badge to inspire young women around the country. I will undoubtedly continue to advocate for more women in S.T.E.M., and it has confirmed my desire to work as a Certified Flight Instructor and mentor for other young aviatrix.”

Autumn said that her favorite Girl Scouting memories include participating as a C.I.T. at Camp Honi Honta during the summer, and serving on the National Media Team for the 2017 G.I.R.L. National Convention.

She will be attending Rice University in the fall as a Mechanical Engineering and Astrophysics double major. She dreams of becoming a commercial airline pilot, and maybe even an astronaut one day!

The Girl Scout Gold Award acknowledges the power behind each Gold Award Girl Scout’s dedication to not only empowering and bettering herself, but also to making the world a better place for others. Through earning the Gold Award, Girl Scouts become innovative problem solvers, empathetic leaders, confident public speakers, and focused project managers. They learn resourcefulness, tenacity, and decision-making skills, giving them an edge personally and professionally.

“Gold Award Girl Scouts are the dreamers and doers who take ‘make the world a better place’ to the next level,” said GSGCF CEO Mary Anne Servian. “These girls tackled issues that are important to them and their communities, and we congratulate them on this momentous accomplishment.”

By earning their Gold Awards, these young women have distinguished themselves as true community leaders and change-makers who have made a meaningful and sustainable difference in the world. Their accomplishments reflect leadership and social responsibility that set them apart from their peers.

According to recent research, Gold Award Girl Scouts are more likely to fill leadership roles at work and in their personal lives and are more civically engaged than their non-Girl Scout peers. Eighty-five percent of Gold Award Girl Scouts say that earning their Gold Award gave them skills to succeed in their daily lives, and eighty-seven percent say it gave them skills to help them succeed professionally.

About 4,000 Girl Scouts earn their Gold Award every year, placing Autumn among a prestigious community of change-makers who have achieved this honor. Since 1916, over 160,000 Girl Scouts have earned the Gold Award or its equivalent.

As a bonus, the Gold Award opens doors to a variety of scholarships, preferred admission tracks for college, strong networking and amazing career opportunities, and much more. In July 2023, Girl Scouts of the USA announced that Autumn was the recipient of the 2023 Gold Award Scholarship. One Girl Scout per council in the U.S. is chosen each year for this prestigious award. This year, thanks to the generosity of the Girl Scouts of the USA’s donors, scholarship recipients received $10,000 each towards their high education pursuits.

Getting Ready for a Successful Back-to-School Season with Girl Scouts

by Jessica Miano

As summer comes to an end, it’s time for Girl Scouts to gear up for a successful back-to-school season. Transitioning from lazy summer days to a structured school routine can be challenging, but with a little preparation and the support of their Girl Scout sisterhood, they can navigate this exciting time with confidence. Here are some helpful tips to help Girl Scouts prepare for the upcoming school year:

  1. Embrace the Routine: Going back to school means a return to a set schedule. Help girls adjust by gradually reintroducing routines before school starts. Encourage them to set regular bedtimes, plan their outfits, and practice their morning routines. This will make the first week of school feel less overwhelming.
  2. Tackle Homework: With a new school year comes an increase in homework load. Encourage girls to create a dedicated study space and establish a homework routine. Setting aside time each day for homework, and completing assignments promptly, can help them stay on top of their schoolwork.
  3. Navigating Social Issues: Entering a new grade or school cani bring social challenges. Encourage open communication and active listening among girls to address any concerns or anxieties they may have. Remind them that they have a supportive sisterhood in Girl Scouts to lean on during times of uncertainty.
  4. Take Care of Mental Health: School can be stressful, and it’s essential to prioritize mental wellness. Encourage girls to engage in activities that promote relaxation and self-care, such as mindfulness exercises, journaling, or spending time outdoors. Remind them that it’s okay to seek help from parents, teachers, or counselors if they’re feeling overwhelmed.
Read: Mental Wellness Activities for You and Your Troop (PLUS a NEW Patch)
  1. Set Goals and Celebrate Achievements: Encourage girls to set personal and academic goals for the school year. Whether it’s improving grades, trying out for a school team, or being more involved in community service, setting objectives can boost motivation and self-confidence. Celebrate their accomplishments, no matter how small, to keep their spirits high.

Going back to school can be both exciting and nerve-wracking for Girl Scouts. By following these tips and relying on the support of their Girl Scout community, they can navigate any changes, challenges, and opportunities the new school year brings. Remember, in Girl Scouts, they have a sisterhood that will stand beside them through it all, fostering leadership, resilience, and friendship. Here’s to a fantastic school year ahead!

Enjoy National Booklovers Day Alongside Gold Award Girl Scout Natasha Agarwhal [Gold Award Spotlight]

by Jessica Miano

National Book Lovers Day on August 9th harnesses all the excitement bibliophiles feel about books into one celebration!

As Girl Scouts, we know it is no secret that childhood literacy and reading are important stepping stones to a successful future. This is one of the reasons why Gulfcoast Girl Scout Natasha Agarwhal chose to address childhood literacy in impoverished communities for her 80-hour Gold Award project, “PAGETURNER Digital Learning Library.”

After learning that children from lower-income homes have limited access to books, Natasha wanted to help bridge the reading gap in her community. Natasha did this by providing 150 underserved children in PRE-K with free access to a digital learning library on YouTube, along with 10 corresponding books to go with the video series.

Natasha knew her project was a success when she received positive feedback and even requests for more books from both teachers and parents of the children she provided the reading resources to.

“This project taught me that I like doing big multi-step projects and working on a large team,” she said.

Natasha earned the Girl Scout Gold Award in March 2023.

“Gold Award Girl Scouts are the dreamers and doers who take ‘make the world a better place’ to the next level,” said GSGCF CEO Mary Anne Servian. “These girls tackled issues that are important to them and their communities, and we congratulate them on this momentous accomplishment.”

The Girl Scout Gold Award acknowledges the power behind each Gold Award Girl Scout’s dedication to not only empowering and bettering herself, but also to making the world a better place for others. Through earning the Gold Award, Girl Scouts become innovative problem solvers, empathetic leaders, confident public speakers, and focused project managers. They learn resourcefulness, tenacity, and decision-making skills, giving them an edge personally and professionally.

By earning their Gold Awards, these young women have distinguished themselves as true community leaders and change-makers who have made a meaningful and sustainable difference in the world. Their accomplishments reflect leadership and social responsibility that set them apart from their peers.

According to recent research, Gold Award Girl Scouts are more likely to fill leadership roles at work and in their personal lives and are more civically engaged than their non-Girl Scout peers. Eighty-five percent of Gold Award Girl Scouts say that earning their Gold Award gave them skills to succeed in their daily lives, and eighty-seven percent say it gave them skills to help them succeed professionally.

As a bonus, the Gold Award opens doors to a variety of scholarships, preferred admission tracks for college, strong networking and amazing career opportunities, and much more. About 4,000 Girl Scouts earn their Gold Award every year, placing Natasha among a prestigious community of change-makers who have achieved this honor. Since 1916, over 160,000 Girl Scouts have earned the Gold Award or its equivalent.

Embracing National Wellness Month: A Guide for Every Girl Scout to Nourish Her Mind, Body, and Spirit

by Jessica Miano

As August arrives, it brings with it a special occasion: National Wellness Month. This month-long observance encourages individuals to focus on their overall well-being, nurturing their mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical health. For Girl Scouts across the country, this presents an opportunity to embark on a journey of self-care and personal growth. In this blog, we will explore what National Wellness Month is and how Girl Scouts can embrace it, fostering wellness in all aspects of their lives.

Understanding National Wellness Month

National Wellness Month is a time to prioritize self-care and explore various avenues of wellness to maintain a balanced and fulfilling life. It serves as a reminder to take a step back from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing individuals to focus on their inner selves and nourish their bodies, minds, and spirits. By promoting self-awareness and healthy habits, this month encourages people to make positive changes that can lead to long-term well-being.

Practicing Mental Wellness

Mental wellness is vital for maintaining a healthy mind and emotional state. Girl Scouts can cultivate mental wellness in August by practicing:

  1. Mindfulness and Meditation: Encouraging daily mindfulness exercises and meditation can help girls to manage stress, improve focus, and enhance emotional resilience.
  2. Journaling: Promoting the habit of journaling allows girls to express their thoughts and emotions, leading to greater self-understanding and emotional processing.
  3. Positive Affirmations: Emphasizing the power of positive affirmations can boost self-esteem and foster a growth mindset.

Badges you can earn relating to Mental Wellness:

  • Participate in the national Resilient. Ready. Strong. Patch Program
  • Earn the Daisy Petal Patch through engaging, hands-on activities from one or more of the Girl Scout pillars: STEM, Life Skills, Outdoors, and Entrepreneurship. Each petal badge focuses on a different line of the Girl Scout Law.

Emotional Wellness

Emotional wellness involves recognizing, understanding, and managing emotions effectively. Here’s how Girl Scouts can practice emotional wellness:

  1. Emotional Expression: Encouraging open and honest communication about feelings helps create a supportive and empathetic environment within the troop.
  2. Building Resilience: Organizing activities that challenge girls to overcome obstacles and setbacks will strengthen their resilience and emotional coping skills.
  3. Practicing Empathy: Participating in community service projects allows girls to connect with others, cultivating empathy and compassion.

Girl Scout activities you can participate in relating to Emotional Wellness:

Spiritual Wellness

Spiritual wellness goes beyond religious beliefs; it involves finding purpose and meaning in life. For Girl Scouts, spiritual wellness can be nurtured by:

  1. Nature Walks: Encouraging girls to spend time in nature helps them connect with the world around them and fosters a sense of wonder and spirituality.
  2. Reflection and Gratitude: Incorporating moments of reflection and gratitude in troop activities promotes a sense of appreciation and spiritual growth.
  3. Service to Others: Engaging in volunteer work and acts of kindness gives girls a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Badge Programs relating to Spiritual Wellness:

  • My Promise, My Faith Pin, which helps a girl strengthen the connection between the Girl Scout Law and her faith.
  • The P.R.A.Y. Award is the linchpin connecting scouting and churches to benefit young people. The result is stronger youth, stronger families, stronger congregations, and stronger councils.

Physical Wellness

Physical wellness involves maintaining a healthy body through proper nutrition, exercise, and self-care. Here’s how Girl Scouts can practice physical wellness:

  1. Healthy Eating Habits: Educating girls about balanced nutrition and encouraging healthy snack options during troop meetings and outings.
  2. Active Lifestyle: Organizing physical activities like hiking, biking, or dancing to promote regular exercise and overall fitness.
  3. Rest and Relaxation: Emphasizing the importance of adequate sleep and relaxation to support physical recovery and mental well-being.

Badge programs relating to physical wellness:

Conclusion

National Wellness Month presents an opportunity for Girl Scouts to prioritize their mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical health. By embracing various wellness practices, they can cultivate self-awareness, resilience, and a balanced lifestyle. As they embark on this journey of self-discovery and growth, they will not only benefit individually, but also collectively strengthen their bond as a supportive and compassionate troop. Let August be a month of empowerment, self-care, and wellness for every Girl Scout. Happy National Wellness Month!

Girl Scouts Embark on an Unforgettable European Adventure, Expanding Their Horizons with the Help of Cookie Rewards

by Jessica Miano
Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida visit the Olympic Stadium in Athens in July 2023.

A group of six determined and adventurous Girl Scouts from the Gulfcoast footprint recently returned from an extraordinary journey through Italy and Greece. Through their hard work and dedication to selling cookies, these young girls were able to embark on an educational and cultural experience that will shape their lives forever. The 10-day trip was offered as a Cookie Reward for Gulfcoast Girl Scouts during the 2022 and 2023 Cookie Seasons.

From the bustling streets of Rome to the iconic landmarks of Florence, and the breathtaking beauty of the Adriatic Coast, these six Girl Scouts explored the rich history, art, and culture of Italy. Their journey continued as they made their way to the enchanting Greek destinations of Igoumenitsa, Delphi, and Athens, immersing themselves in the wonders of ancient civilizations.

Thanks to their local communities’ generous support of their entrepreneurial endeavors, these Girl Scouts were able to witness firsthand the architectural marvels of Rome, including the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Vatican City. They also toured Saint Peter’s Cathedral and the Catacombs. In Florence, they marveled at the historical cityscape, attended a traditional leather demonstration and pasta-making class, and strolled along the charming Ponte Vecchio. The scenic Adriatic Coast offered them a much-needed respite, where they enjoyed a nighttime ferry ride through the crystal-clear waters.

The group attended a traditional leather demonstration and pasta making class while Florence.
Girls visited the Colosseum.
The girls visited the Vatican City and the Sistine Chapel during the first leg of their journey in Italy.
The Girl Scouts visited Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome and toured the Catacombs.
Gulfcoast Girl Scout Ruby learns to make lasagna in Florence.

Crossing over to Greece, the Girl Scouts experienced the magic of Igoumenitsa, a coastal town renowned for its natural beauty and historical significance. In Delphi, they delved into the ancient ruins of the Oracle, gaining insights into the religious and cultural practices of ancient Greece. The journey culminated in Athens, where they walked in the footsteps of the great philosophers at the Acropolis and toured the Athens Museum at their own pace.

The entire group, including Girl Scouts from Florida, Pennsylvania, and Kansas, enjoyed a ferry ride along the Adriatic Coast.
The group toured Delphi and Athens, visiting the Olympic Stadium and the Oracle.

The group traveled with fellow Girl Scouts from Pennsylvania and Kansas, who also earned the trip as a Cookie Reward. The girls expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to travel abroad through their participation in the Cookie Program. This incredible opportunity has not only broadened their understandings of the world but has also empowered them with a global perspective and a renewed sense of curiosity.

Once a year, Girl Scouts around the country venture into the entrepreneurial world to learn
business and financial skills and earn money to fund their Girl Scouting goals. Through “learning by earning,” Girl Scouting aims to empower girls through the development of five essential skills: goal setting, money management, people skills, decision making, and business ethics. In addition to the five key skills girls learn from the Girl Scout Cookie Program, girls whose troop chooses the base troop proceeds plan can earn individual girl rewards. Cookie Rewards vary each year and may include reward items, clubs, events, and trips. Direct, booth and online sales, as well as cookies sold for Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida’s Mints for the Military Program all count towards a girl’s end-of-sale totals.

Ashley Gill, GSGCF Product Program Manager, shared her thoughts on this life-changing experience, saying: “We are incredibly grateful for the support of our community, who made it possible for these Girl Scouts to embark on this incredible journey. The lessons we learned, the friendships we made, and the memories we created will stay with us forever. Selling cookies not only helped these girls achieve their goals but also taught them valuable skills, such as teamwork, communication, and entrepreneurship.”

The Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida is immensely proud of these six exceptional Girl Scouts, who exemplify the spirit of determination, ambition, and resilience that the organization seeks to instill in its members.

The trip of a lifetime was made possible by the girls’ participation in the Girl Scout Cookie Program.

Your Back-To-Troop Checklist is Here

by Jessica Miano

That time of year is finally upon us! As we prepare for our girls to go back to school, it is also time to begin planning your 2023-24 Girl Scouting season.

Here is a checklist to use when you are getting ready for the next troop year in September and October each troop year:

Once you have taken care of the brass tacks, it is time to begin planning your year of Girl Scouting. We already know it is going to be filled with fun, friendship, creativity, adventure, and wonder… But how do we make it happen?

In Girl Scouts, we talk a lot about why it’s so important for girls to take the lead in troop life, and for good reason! But for many new troop leaders, the idea of letting their girls take charge might sound a little crazy. How do you let little girls who can barely sit through snack time plan a year of activities? What does girl-led planning actually look like?

Girl-Led Planning for Younger Girls

If you’ll be planning activities for your younger girls, get a clear picture of what they’re most excited about.

Once you know what the girls in your troop are most excited about, it will be easier to plan activities and badges around their personal interests. Many Daisy and Brownie leaders find that asking girls to vote on two or three options keeps the girls engaged and keeps the meeting moving. This strategy gives the girls agency while also keeping your troop’s planning realistic and mission-aligned.

As your girls bridge to Juniors, they’ll be ready to take on more responsibilities in charting their troop year.

Girl-Led Planning for Older Girls

Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors have the skills they need to develop realistic plans and make them a reality! Though they won’t need the same level of support as younger girls, be ready with guiding questions or key information that will help them make informed decisions about the year ahead.

The most supportive thing you can do for older girls is to listen to them and create effective systems for them to turn their dreams into a reality.

Gold Award Girl Scout Autumn Pepper Rhodes Receives $10,000 Scholarship from Girl Scouts USA

by Jessica Miano

Girl Scouts of Gulf Coast Florida (GSGCF) Ambassador Girl Scout Autumn Pepper Rhodes is the recipient of the 2023 National Gold Award Scholarship. Every year, the Girl Scouts of the USA awards a Girl Scout Gold Award Scholarship to a Gold Award recipient from each council. Due to the generosity of sponsors and donors to GSUSA, this year’s recipient Autumn Pepper Rhodes will receive $10,000, as well as recognition in local and national Girl Scout promotions.

Learn more about the National Gold Award Scholarship at GSUSA’s website.

Rhodes is one of 12 GSGCF members to have earned the Girl Scout Gold Award in 2023. The Gold Award is the highest and most prestigious award that Girl Scout Seniors and Ambassadors can earn. It is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication to Girl Scouting.

A project must involve a minimum of 80 hours and include the following steps: identifying an issue, investigating it thoroughly, getting help and building a team, creating a plan, presenting the plan, gathering feedback, taking action, and educating and inspiring others. It is more than just a good service project—it encompasses organizational, leadership, and networking skills.

The issue that Rhodes identified for her project was a lack of gender parity within the fields of aerospace and aviation, as well as a lack of opportunities within Girl Scouts for girls to explore aviation. She hosted three workshops in her community for young women to learn about engineering and aviation and invited successful women pilots as speakers to inspire interest in aviation among girls.

Her workshops gave girls the opportunity to learn about careers in engineering and aviation and take part in a discovery flight experience.

She created a website filled with videos, educational resources, and scholarship information for girls interested in aviation. She also started an online petition urging GSUSA to lift their safety restrictions and allow discovery flights as a Girl Scout activity.

Rhodes’ petition has over 1,700 signatures and counting, and can be accessed on her website, www.girlswhosoar.com.

“This experience has inspired me and proved that I am able to make a difference in my community,” Rhodes said. “I plan to continue advocating for aviation in Girl Scouting and press the Board of Directors to implement an aviation career badge to inspire young women around the country. I will undoubtedly continue to advocate for more women in S.T.E.M., and it has confirmed my desire to work as a Certified Flight Instructor and mentor for other young aviatrix.”

Rhodes said that her favorite Girl Scouting memories include participating as a C.I.T. at Camp Honi Honta and serving on the National Media Team for the 2017 G.I.R.L. National Convention.

She will be attending Rice University in Houston in the fall, pursuing a dual major in mechanical engineering and astrophysics. She is a licensed pilot and aspires to one day become an astronaut.

Girl Scouts were able to apply for the scholarship between March 15, 2023 and April 17, 2023. Eligible Gold Award Girl Scouts included high school seniors or graduates who earned the Gold Award between April 1, 2022 and March 31, 2023. Each applicant was required to provide proof of their Gold Award and submit four 500-word essays about their Gold Award. One recipient per council was selected nationwide.

Girl Scouts wins Manatee Chamber 2023 Small Business of the Year

by Jessica Miano

The Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, a non-profit organization of nearly 3,500 girls in grades K-12, and more than 1,500 adult members in the greater gulf coast area, was chosen as 2023 Small Business of the Year in the Non-Profit category by the Manatee Chamber of Commerce. The award was announced on June 29 at the 43rd Annual Small Business of the Year Awards, hosted by the Manatee Chamber of Commerce at the Bradenton Convention Center.

Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida was among six other organizations to be recognized as winners of the Small Business of the Year Award this year. Non-profit organizations were divided into two categories based on staff size; for-profit organizations were divided into five categories based on annual revenue.

Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida facilitates programming, service opportunities, leadership experiences, and offers the largest girl-led entrepreneurial program in the world – the Girl Scout Cookie Program. As Girl Scouts, girls also discover the fun, friendship, and power of girls together. They learn and grow in a safe, all-girl environment, which helps them discover themselves and their values, try new things and take healthy risks, connect with others to create positive relationships, and take action in their communities on issues they are passionate about.

The organization was recognized by judges for providing outstanding leadership, entrepreneurial, and educational opportunities to girls in the Manatee County area while facing various challenges during the 2022 fiscal year, including philanthropic struggles related to the COVID-19 pandemic, national supply chain issues during the 2022 Cookie Program, and damage to the organization’s properties during Hurricane Ian.

“The story of this nonprofit is one of resilience,” said Kevin Cooper of Mote Marine, who presented the award. “This group is no stranger to challenges—it has been overcoming them for more than 100 years. It has been a leader in building courage, confidence, and character in local young ladies, and it currently serves more than 800 girls and nearly 400 adults [in Manatee County].”

Moore said that Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida “offers the largest girl-led entrepreneurial program in the world to young ladies in Manatee County, empowering these children with skills such as goal setting, decision making, and, of course, resilience — one box of cookies at a time,” he said.

Mary Anne Servian, CEO of Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, made brief remarks as she accepted the award on behalf of the organization. She noted the Girl Scouts’ storied history in Manatee County, including the fact that the organization was founded in Manatee County over 100 years ago. She also noted that in 1953 the council acquired a 40-acre tract of land on the Braden River and established their own camp, Honi Hanta, meaning “Home on the River.” The camp is still operating to this day.

“We are proud to be part of such a diverse and spirited community,” she said.

Servian also remarked that the Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida’s work of building girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place is far from finished. “In fact, it is just beginning,” she said. “I am happy to say that we are looking forward to a full calendar of programs this summer and fall,” many of which will directly serve communities within Manatee County. For more information about the programs Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida has to offer, visit https://www.gsgcf.org/.

Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida staff and board members attended the Manatee Chamber Small Business Awards on June 29. From left to right, Patricia Ramthun, Chief Communications and Resource Officer; Pamela Sennott, Development Manager; Mary Anne Servian, CEO; Karin Bleyer, Board Member; Marie Graziosi, Chief of Staff; and Jessica Miano, Marketing and Communications Associate.

Mary Anne Servian, Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida CEO (seated, center) accepted the 2023 Small Business of the Year Award on behalf of the organization. The other winning organizations recognized that evening included One Step Housing, Stronger Moving & Delivery Service, A.L.L. About Kids Pediatric Dentistry, Your CBD Store, Ohana Embroidery, and Healthy Teens Inc..

From left to right, Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida Board Member Karin Bleyer and Mary Anne Servian, CEO, pose with the 2023 Small Business of the Year Award plaque.

Awardees received a recognition plaque and a congratulatory letter from Congressman Vern Buchanan.

Have a Safe & Fun 4th of July

by Jessica Miano

The Fourth of July is finally here! This weekend Girl Scouts will be celebrating Independence Day from sea to shining sea. Whether you’re at camp, the beach, a backyard barbecue or any other fun you may find in between; we hope you have a great holiday weekend! Below are a few tips to ensure you have a safe and super fun time. So, go out there rocking your stars and stripes and enjoy your favorite summer activities!

Sunblock is your friend
Don’t forget to keep reapplying sunscreen throughout the day. Wear all the red, white and blue clothes you want this weekend but try not to turn your skin red. No one wants to look like a lobster on the 5th of July!

   Fireworks 
Bing. Bang. BOOM! Let the professionals do all the work. There are some amazing fireworks shows throughout West Central Florida, find one that’s near you.

   Sparklers
We know you girls love the glitz and twinkle of sparklers. Before you get this party started, make sure you have an adult present. Hold the sparklers away from your body and others around you. Also, keep a bucket of water handy to extinguish your flames.

   Beach 
Before you run into the surf, make sure there’s a lifeguard on duty. Don’t forget to tell Mom and Dad that you’re going in for a dip. Stay close to shore and try not to venture in water that’s too deep.

  Sand Castles 
Please don’t throw sand at others… even if your little brother is being annoying.

  Fire  
Do you like making s’mores over the campfire? Don’t get too close to the open flame. You want your marshmallow roasted, not your fingers!

  Camping 
Before you head out into the wilderness make a checklist of all the supplies you need. You don’t want to get caught in the woods without enough TP!

For more information and other tips on how to stay safe this Fourth of July visit the Red Cross website.

56th National Council Session: Important Information & Survey

by Jessica Miano

Girl Scouts from across our country and around the world will gather for the 56th National Council Session in Orlando from July 18-20, 2023.

As we continue to prepare for our 56th National Council Session, this document outlines the items that will be placed on the agenda based on insights from local volunteers, council leaders and council staff, national leaders and GSUSA staff, and the volunteers who serve as members of the Girl Scouts of the USA Board of Directors (the “board”). The overarching goal for the 56th National Council Session is to hold an inspiring and energizing gathering—where we have productive and efficient discussions and make decisions in support of strategic objectives, and elect leaders for the next triennium. Collectively and collaboratively, we will create a strong future for Girl Scouting.

The four National Council Delegates who have been elected by Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida and the other councils of Girl Scouts U.S.A. will work together in a democratic and engaging governance practice that will lay the foundation for an even brighter future for Girl Scouts—always with the girls we serve as the focus of these meetings.

View or download the seven proposed amendments that will be discussed at NCS here:

ncs-proposals-7-and-faqs-survey-members-6.27.23Download

A Town Hall session will be held on July 6 at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom to discuss the proposed amendments.

Juliette Gordon Low said it best: “The work of today is the history of tomorrow, and we are its makers.” Girl Scouts convened its first National Council Session (NCS) in 1915, engaging women in a democratic process five years before the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution granted American women the right to vote.

Phenom by Girl Scouts, an event just for girls, will follow the 56th National Council Session on July 20-22.