Are You a Remarkable, Energetic, Aspirational Leader?

New York, N.Y.–Girl Scouts everywhere are encouraged to tell the world how they are Remarkable, Energetic, Aspirational Leaders by entering the Justine R.E.A.L. Girl contest where the prize is a feature in the national teen/tween lifestyle magazine, Justine.

This R.E.A.L. Girl Contest is open only to Girl Scouts between the ages of 13-19, who are working to make the world a better place in their local communities and beyond. The winner will be featured in an article telling all about her activities as the R.E.A.L. Girl, and she will win a trip to the Justine offices in Memphis, Tennessee, for a professional photo shoot, as well as other fun prizes and Justine subscriptions for her troop and her school library.

“As the publisher of Justine (and a former Girl Scout), I am thrilled that we are partnering with Girl Scouts of the USA to showcase amazing Girl Scouts through our R.E.A.L Girl Contest. Justine is proud to feature these girls and their many accomplishments in their schools and communities,” said Jana Kerr Pettey, Publisher/Editorial Director, Justine magazine.

Submissions will be accepted until January 20, 2010, and the finalists and winner will be selected in February. For more information and contest rules, check out: justinemagazine.com.

“Making the world a better place is a priority among Girl Scouts, and it is an exciting opportunity to have one of our girls featured in Justine, showcasing her extraordinary service,” said Laurel Richie, Chief Marketing Officer, GSUSA. “We hope that our girls enter the R.E.A.L. Girl contest and tell the world about the great things Girl Scouts are accomplishing through their leadership.

COUNCIL COMMUNITY EVENTS

October 23 Edition
NEW! ONGOING: STATE OF MISSISSIPPI VETERANS HOME

Service Project Opportunity with The State of Mississippi Veterans Home at 120 Veterans Drive in Oxford, MS is looking for troops or groups who are willing to volunteer at the home.

Volunteers can assist with various recreational activities – reading to those whose eyesight is failing them, delivering mail, walking with them inside or outside, pushing their wheelchairs for a short stroll inside or outside, giving them snacks, playing checkers or cards, writing letters for them, playing or singing music for them or just simply conversing with them.

If your troop is interested in volunteering at the home, contact Janie Lunceford, Recreation Director at 662-236-7641, ext. 24.

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ONGOING: HOLLEY FARM

This fall visit the heart of Mississippi's beautiful Hill Country in scenic Itawamba County. Bring your family and "Come on Down to Holley Farm" You will be pleasantly transported back to a simpler place and a simpler time. Take time to discover Mississippi's rich agrarian history by visiting beautiful Holley Farm.

Girl Scout troops & Service Units can call to reserve their dates for a weekday or evening
(662-871-6949). Ask about the "Ag in the Classroom" Programs For All Ages!

CLICK HERE for Holley Farm's website.

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ONGOING: HOLT FAMILY FARMS

Holt Family Farms offers an agricultural learning area, playground and games, hay maze, covered picnic area, concessions, horse and tractor drawn hay rides, on farm market, petting zoo, and a chance to pick your own pumpkin right out of the field.


Girl Scout troops & Service Units can contact HFF to receive group rates & reserve their dates for a weekday or evening (731)364-3459, email@holtfamilyfarms.com

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OCTOBER 3 - 31: CORN MAZE & PUMPKIN PATCH

Adkins Farms houses a 2 acre corn maze and offers hayrides to the pumpkin patch where you can pick your very own pumpkin. Other amenities include a play & picnic area, campfires, seed spitting contests & corn shelling! Ask about the educational sessions on bees, corn, pumpkins or sunflowers.

WHEN: October 3 - 31, various days & times
WHERE: Adkins Farms, 373 Hwy 364, Booneville, MS 38829
WHO: All, group reservations highly suggested
COST: Group Pricing Available
QUESTIONS? 662.728.MAZE, www.adkinsfarms.com

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OCTOBER 24: OREN DUNN CITY MUSEUM'S ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL & SCARECROW CONTEST

Create a scarecrow representing the Girl Scouts and enter it in the Oren Dunn Scarecrow Contest - scarecrows must be entered by Oct. 23.

Come Saturday, Oct. 24 for the Annual Fall Festival from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. with live history demonstrations, FREE museum admission, pioneers games, plus food, fun & fantastic family time!


CLICK HERE for complete details.

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OCTOBER 30: SCARE ON THE SQUARE
Main Street Collierville invites you to a frightening good family afternoon on the downtown square! There will be trick-or-treating with downtown merchants, a costume parade, story time, festive games & activities and much, much more!

CLICK HERE for event flyer.


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NOVEMBER 14: BOOKS A MILLION & GIRL SCOUTS

Girl Scouts Heart of the South has partnered with Books A Million in Jackson, TN!
Volunteers and friends can participate in the following Book Fairs, to promote literacy and have a percentage of the proceeds support our Girl Scouts!

All Book Fairs are on Saturday's at Books A Million "Columns" in Jackson, TN.

You must say you want to support Girl Scouts for the Council to receive credit!

November 14th 2-4 PM
December 12th 2-4 PM

**Discounts and club memberships will not be applicable during these events.
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NOVEMBER 21: MEMPHIS YOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA FALL CONCERT

Mid-South Young People's Orchestra (MYOP) provides a deeper understanding of and appreciation for music by offering excellent orchestral and personal education to young people throughout the Mid-South. You can appreciate music and young talent at their Fall Concert. Plus, plan ahead for their Spring Concert on March 5th.

WHEN: Saturday, November 21 at 7 p.m.
WHERE: Christian Brother's University Theater, 650 East Parkway, Memphis, TN 38104
COST: FREE!
QUESTIONS? Caroline Johnson at MYPO or visit their website, www.musicmypo.org
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It's Official! President Obama signs a bill today authorizing the minting of a commemorative coin to mark Girl Scouts USA centennial!

The U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate have passed the Girl Scouts USA Commemorative Coin Act, and President Obama signed the bill making it a law on October 29, 2009!

This victory would not have been possible without the efforts of thousands of Girl Scout supporters—girls, alumnae, volunteers, parents, staff, board members, and friends who wrote, e-mailed, and called their members of Congress. In fact, more than 40,000 messages were sent from Girl Scouts all over the nation. What an amazing tribute to the impact Girl Scouting has had on its 50 million past and current members.


COMMEMORATIVE COIN FAQS

How does the coin relate to the 100th anniversary celebration?
We have four goals for the 100th Anniversary:

• Showcase the Girl Scout Leadership Experience
• Advance the Brand
• Raise a Significant Amount of Money
• Increase Membership and Diversity

The 100th Anniversary projects, programs, and activities were selected according to several criteria, one of which was that each activity meet at least one of the 100th Anniversary goals.

Why is the coin being issued in 2013?
Congress only allows for the minting of two coins per calendar year. GSUSA chose 2013 as it will mark the end of our year-long celebration of our 100th Anniversary, and kick-off the next century of Girl Scouting.

How much will the coin cost?
The sale price will be determined by the U.S. Mint, and varies from year to year, depending on the price of silver and other cost factors. Recently minted silver commemorative coins were sold by the Mint for about $42 per coin.

Can it be used as currency?
The coin is considered legal tender. However, because they are commemorative coins, and cost much more than the face value, it is unlikely that they will be actually used as legal tender.

How much of the cost of the coin will go to Girl Scouts?
350,000 coins will be minted, and a surcharge of $10 per coin sold will be allocated to Girl Scouts of the USA, resulting in the potential to raise $3.5 million.

How will the proceeds from the coin be used?
The funds have been designated for critically needed restoration and improvements to the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace.

What metals will the coin be made of/percentages?
The Girl Scouts Centennial Commemorative Coins will be silver $1 coins, weighing 26.73 ounces and sized at 1.5 inches in diameter. They will be 90 percent silver, 10 percent copper.

What is the design of the coin?
The design, according to the Bill, “shall be emblematic of the Centennial of the Girl Scouts.” The design will be selected by the Secretary of the Treasury, after consultation with the Girl Scouts of the USA and the Commission of Fine Arts. The design will also be reviewed by the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee.

How can I purchase the coin?
Individuals and councils will be able to order online, by mail, and by phone. Girl Scouts of the USA will share—well in advance—with councils, alumnae, and supporters details about how to order.

Can the coins be sold in council shops?
Yes, and council shops may be able to get a small discount. However, the U.S. Mint requests that councils do not sell the coins for more than the Mint’s published price.

How many coins can individuals and councils order?
For the first 30 days, there will be a limit of 50 coins per household. Councils and council shops will be able to place advance orders, and the details will be shared as soon as they are available.

When will the coin be made available?
The coin will be made available in 2013. The Mint will not give us an exact date.

What is the bill/law number?
H.R. 621 was the final version of the legislation passed by both the House and Senate. It can be viewed by visiting www.thomas.gov.

How many coins will be made available?
350,000 coins will be minted.

Where will the coin be minted?
The coin will be minted in West Point, New York.

How to Raise Girls with Healthy Self-Esteem | AboutOurKids.org

Yikes! Here is a shocking statistic, a girl's self-esteem peaks at the age of 9 and then nosedives, according to Anita Gurian, a Clinical Assistant Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the NYU School of Medicine.

In this compelling article, How to Raise Girls with Healthy Self-Esteem on AboutOurKids.org, she looks at the main causes and offers some very helpful tips on how adults can help their girls. For example she says to watch your own stereotypes - let daughters help fix the kitchen sink and let sons help make dinner.

READ MORE HERE.

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Calling All Artists

LeBonheur Children's Medical Center is completing a massive expansion of a 610,000-square-foot hospital that will double Le Bonheur’s current space for patient care, research and teaching. This means they'll have a lot of blank walls that need decorating. You can help Le Bonheur inspire, entertain and soothe patients, families, employees and visitors with your original artwork and poetry!

The art and poetry contests are open to all students grades K-12. CLICK HERE for more information and guidelines on the contests.

Artwork must be submitted the week of November 16-20 and poetry will be collected in the spring of 2010.

COMMUNITY EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES

NEW! ONGOING: STATE OF MISSISSIPPI VETERANS HOME

Service Project Opportunity with The State of Mississippi Veterans Home at 120 Veterans Drive in Oxford, MS is looking for troops or groups who are willing to volunteer at the home.

Volunteers can assist with various recreational activities – reading to those whose eyesight is failing them, delivering mail, walking with them inside or outside, pushing their wheelchairs for a short stroll inside or outside, giving them snacks, playing checkers or cards, writing letters for them, playing or singing music for them or just simply conversing with them.

If your troop is interested in volunteering at the home, contact Janie Lunceford, Recreation Director at 662-236-7641, ext. 24.

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ONGOING: HOLLEY FARM

This fall visit the heart of Mississippi's beautiful Hill Country in scenic Itawamba County. Bring your family and "Come on Down to Holley Farm" You will be pleasantly transported back to a simpler place and a simpler time. Take time to discover Mississippi's rich agrarian history by visiting beautiful Holley Farm.

Girl Scout troops & Service Units can call to reserve their dates for a weekday or evening
(662-871-6949). Ask about the "Ag in the Classroom" Programs For All Ages!

CLICK HERE for Holley Farm's website.

__________________________________________________
ONGOING: HOLT FAMILY FARMS

Holt Family Farms offers an agricultural learning area, playground and games, hay maze, covered picnic area, concessions, horse and tractor drawn hay rides, on farm market, petting zoo, and a chance to pick your own pumpkin right out of the field.


Girl Scout troops & Service Units can contact HFF to receive group rates & reserve their dates for a weekday or evening (731)364-3459, email@holtfamilyfarms.com

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OCTOBER 3 - 31: CORN MAZE & PUMPKIN PATCH

Adkins Farms houses a 2 acre corn maze and offers hayrides to the pumpkin patch where you can pick your very own pumpkin. Other amenities include a play & picnic area, campfires, seed spitting contests & corn shelling! Ask about the educational sessions on bees, corn, pumpkins or sunflowers.

WHEN: October 3 - 31, various days & times
WHERE: Adkins Farms, 373 Hwy 364, Booneville, MS 38829
WHO: All, group reservations highly suggested
COST: Group Pricing Available
QUESTIONS? 662.728.MAZE, www.adkinsfarms.com


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OCTOBER 17: BOOKS A MILLION & GIRL SCOUTS

Girl Scouts Heart of the South has partnered with Books A Million in Jackson, TN!
Volunteers and friends can participate in the following Book Fairs, to promote literacy and have a percentage of the proceeds support our Girl Scouts!

All Book Fairs are on Saturday's at Books A Million "Columns" in Jackson, TN.

You must say you want to support Girl Scouts for the Council to receive credit!

October 17th 2-4 PM
November 14th 2-4 PM
December 12th 2-4 PM

**Discounts and club memberships will not be applicable during these events.

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OCTOBER 24: OREN DUNN CITY MUSEUM'S ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL & SCARECROW CONTEST

Create a scarecrow representing the Girl Scouts and enter it in the Oren Dunn Scarecrow Contest - scarecrows must be entered by Oct. 23.

Come Saturday, Oct. 24 for the Annual Fall Festival from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. with live history demonstrations, FREE museum admission, pioneers games, plus food, fun & fantastic family time!


CLICK HERE for complete details.

______________________________________________________
NOVEMBER 21: MEMPHIS YOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA FALL CONCERT

Mid-South Young People's Orchestra (MYOP) provides a deeper understanding of and appreciation for music by offering excellent orchestral and personal education to young people throughout the Mid-South. You can appreciate music and young talent at their Fall Concert. Plus, plan ahead for their Spring Concert on March 5th.

WHEN: Saturday, November 21 at 7 p.m.
WHERE: Christian Brother's University Theater, 650 East Parkway, Memphis, TN 38104
COST: FREE!
QUESTIONS? Caroline Johnson at MYPO or visit their website, www.musicmypo.org
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When registering your troop this fall, you may have noticed that Girl Scouts of the USA has moved to 5 digit troop numbers. Therefore, Girl Scouts Heart of the South is moving to 5 digit numbers as well. I know that any change can be a challenge, and many of us cherish our troop numbers long after we’ve grown out of them. I assure you that we are managing this change to be as painless as possible for you. Beginning immediately, all troops will transition to new 5 digit numbers. (And yes, the badge sash will hold 5 numerals!)

Currently, we have many troops in the council with duplicate numbers. Deciding who would need to give up their number would be a sad task for anyone, so the good news is that all troops will keep their current numbers. To eliminate duplicates we will simply add additional numbers to the beginning of every troop. We are going to do this geographically, based on council regions

So alphabetically:

• Memphis DMA troops will all begin with #1 – Crittenden County, Arkansas; Fayette, Lauderdale, Shelby and Tipton Counties in Tennessee; and DeSoto, Marshall, Panola, Tate and Tunica Counties in Mississippi
• NE MS troops will begin with a #2 - Alcorn, Benton, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Clay, Itawamba, Lee, Lowndes, Monroe, Noxubee, Oktibbeha, Pontotoc, Prentiss, Tippah, Tishomingo, Union, Webster and Winston Counties in Mississippi
• NW MS troops will all begin with #3 – Bolivar, Calhoun, Carroll, Coahoma, Grenada, Holmes, Lafayette, Leflore, Montgomery, Quitman, Sunflower, Tallahatchie, Washington and Yalobusha Counties in Mississippi
• W TN troops will all begin with # 4 – Benton, Carroll, Chester, Crockett, Decatur, Dyer, Gibson, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Henderson, Henry, Lake, Madison, McNairy, Obion and Weakley Counties in Tennessee

Between the first number of the five digits and the current troop number will be 0’s. Therefore, Troop #16 in Memphis will become Troop #10016, while Troop #185 in Jackson will become Troop #40185 and Troop #185 in Grenada will become #30185.

We know that you may want to wait until you have fall product sale or cookie proceeds to add numbers to girls’ sashes and vests, and that’s just fine. We are asking you to start using the new numbers on registration forms and event registrations immediately. Please use your new troop number when you register for an adult course, when completing your fall product sale order, or
when adding new girls to your troop. You’ll also want to teach it to your girls, so they can start using it.

A big plus to this system is that when your troop is at events in uniform, you will be able to tell that you’re with new friends from another part of the council, and the council will no longer be trying to manage duplicate troop numbers.

When talking with parents and girls about this change, please share the following:

1. This is a national change, and we are proud members of Girl Scouts of the USA, and this is something troops across the country are doing.
2. We have had duplicate troop numbers for the past 16 months in Girl Scouts Heart of the South, and it’s just not good business practice to continue.
3. We are doing this in a way that enables girls in duplicate troops to keep the numbers they had, rather than making some of our girls change. This way, everyone adds one or more numbers, but no one gives up their old, well-loved number entirely.

Change can be hard, but it is increasingly a way of life, and will be an even greater part of our girls’ lives. Every change brings an opportunity for us to model for our girls how to be good change agents. Thank you for your support, and for all you are doing for girls and Girl Scouts

Heart of the South!
Sincerely,
Sharon A. Baade
Interim CEO