Citrus Peel 2016

Citrus Peel
2016 | Vol. 6
Girl Scouts of Citrus
ww.citrus-gs.org
Philanthropy & Girl Scouts
Discovering new ways to give back to girls in your community
Saving Lives
How one girl can save the lives of others,
more than once!
Celebrate 100 Years of Gold
Join us in congratulating our
31 Gold Award Recipients
A community
coming together
How Girl Scouts joined together to support
the Orlando community
A Royal Debut
A magical celebration and
a new partnership
for girls and troops!

Maryann Inspiration
Hello, Citrus Council Family!
As summer is fading, we look forward to the beginning of
a new Girl Scout year full of fun, learning, and leadership
experiences.
However, the passing of summer is not without a
bittersweet taste this year for those of us in Central
Florida. It was a different sort of summer this year, one
marked by shock and unspeakable sorrow for so many,
yet somehow infused with hope and a renewed sense of
strength and unity as a community. The events of this
summer gave us all cause to pause, to pray together, and to be ever more grateful for those we love and
the blessings we share.
This summer, I have been Inspired to further deepen my roots in all
that I hold dear, to include this Council. Our Council is a community
that I truly cherish—and accept for all of the wonder and the
challenges each day brings. Our girls are the inspiration at the heart
of all we do; their best interest should always be upper most in our
minds and actions.
The common purpose those of us who serve this mission as
volunteers and staff share is truly noble and vital in more ways
than we may imagine. I cannot tell you the energy, fortitude, and
inspiration I gather from spending time with our girls, our dedicated
volunteers, and the philanthropists and community partners who
Cruise ship fun with alumnae
stand with us. As we eagerly stride into this next program year
at Citrus Council, I hope that you too, will gather energy and inspiration from the girls, parents, and
volunteers around you.
We are a pretty awesome group of folks, if I do say so myself! I am proud of our Citrus community and
the impact we have on our Central Florida home.
Thank you, for being you, and investing in our girls.
Maryann Barry, CEO
Making cards with Troop 2034
2
Hanging out with the girls at the Wet n’ Wild Slumber Bash
Leaving our mark at Pax Lodge!

Table of Contents
School isn’t the only thing starting now! We couldn’t be
more excited about all the awesome things happening at
Girl Scouts of Citrus Council!
2
Maryann Inspiration
7
A Magical Debut
12
Saving Lives: Girl Scout Style
24
Girl Scouts of Citrus Properties
2 Maryann Inspiration
4 Around Citrus Council
6 Culture of Philanthropy
7 A Magical Debut
10 Girls Sprout Their Wings
11 Coming Together in the Face of Tragedy
12 Emma: Saving Lives
14 Girls and Philanthropy
15 Buy 5 Cookie Contest Winners
16 Getting Real with Girls
17 JOSH - A Sweet Partnership
18 Meet our Council Office Team
22 Women of Distinction
23 Madison: Counting Her Chickens
24 Discover our Council Properties
27 Celebrating 100 Years of Gold
28 2016 In Her Honor
29 Thank you to our donors
30 Save the Dates
3

Around Citrus council
Troop 536 ~ Seminole Lakes Community
The girls stayed up all night at the mall lock in to collect donations for Pet
Rescue by Judy, in Sanford, Fl. The theme was Super Heroes- the girls
were definitely heroes when they collected and delivered a car full of pet
food, bedding, treats and toys to the shelter.
4
Troop 377 ~ Shooting Stars Community
For their Bronze Award project, Troop 377 collected over 500 books, organized them
by category and age, and hosted a book fair for children living at the Orlando Union
Rescue Mission. The girl-planned book fair included snacks, a craft table and a
Bingo game!

Around Citrus council
Troop 531 ~ Ohana Community
Troop 007 ~ Voyager Community
The girls wanted to do something different
and had heard about the Escape Game. You
have to work as a team to get out of this
room, you find clues, decipher puzzles, you
use everybody’s own strengths. At the time
we went, we set the fastest time for the
Heist which of course the girls loved. I have
never seen them so excited as when they
accomplished this as a team. Definitely a great
team builder!
These girls wanted to give back to our military troops in a big
way by sending a taste of home. They created 30 care packages
which included crackers, cookies, pudding, granola bars, and mac
and cheese along with handwritten (by the girls) notes that said
“From our troop to yours. Thank you for your service”.
Troop 3044 ~ Wild River Community
This Daisy troop wanted to beautify the world so they
planted 10 Butterfly friendly flowers at Joan Walker
Elementary School. Talk about a simple way to make
the world a better place!
5

Culture of Philanthropy
Girl Scouts and its Culture of Philanthropy
Fostering a Lifelong Journey of Generosity
Philanthropy, defined as financially investing in our community, is part of
the Girl Scout DNA, dating back to when Juliette “Daisy” Gordon Low sold
her strand of rare matched pearls for $8,000 to fund early operations. Daisy
knew that it’s only through gifts of voluntary and financial support that we
can make the world a better place.
While Girl Scouting is well known for cookies and camping, our girls regularly
engage in community service projects, carefully invest their cookie project
proceeds and volunteer time. Many girls begin this journey when they earn
the Philanthropy badge as Brownies. They learn how to recognize issues and
find solutions, while developing integrity, strength and character. They learn the value of planning for sustainability as they
work toward earning their Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards.
Yes, philanthropy is in our DNA.
While it usually involves donating money, philanthropy is most meaningful when it comes from the heart and includes the
contribution of time and talents. Volunteers and donors are the life-blood of Girl Scouting – from volunteering to provide
leadership year after year to a group of diverse, at-risk girls or accompanying a troop on an outing, to committing to serving on
a committee or the Board of Directors or making a generous financial gift.
Through their investment in the mission of Girl Scouting, our donors and volunteers help provide rich opportunities to our
girls, making sure every girl can participate regardless of a family’s financial circumstances. Girl Scouts from diverse cultural
heritages and socio-economic backgrounds are learning to stand up for themselves and their community. They are learning
how to be leaders and how they can personally make an impact on our global community.
When they grow into womanhood, our girls will hold the keys to their world. They will be equipped to become influential
leaders locally and internationally. They will carry on the culture of giving through everything they do, ultimately making a
profound impression on business, public service, community outreach, and family life. They are poised to address and solve
the problems of our time. All thanks to the people who believed in them as they grew in the Girl Scout journey.
Thank you for giving back
Marilyn Whiddon understands just what it means to give back. Her Girl Scout
experience began in her grammar school years with her mother serving as her
troop leader. She has fond memories of Camp Dorothy Thomas in Tampa and
she had picked up the Leadership baton when her daughter reached Brownies.
From that time she volunteered as troop cookie chair, then Troop Leader, Service
Team Manager, Day Camp Director, Service Unit Cookie Chair, Trainer and Trainer
of Trainers… and probably a few other hats that she failed to mention. Marilyn
stated, “all of this would not have been possible without the support of her
husband, a true Girl Scout dad.”
6
The legacy has continued for Marilyn with both of her daughters going through
Girl Scouts as well as her granddaughter – all of whom have completed their
Gold Award! Marilyn is pleased to currently be a part of the Archive Team dedicating volunteer time to preserving and sharing
our rich and wonderful Girl Scout history with the girls and our community at large.
Marilyn stated, “My donation towards the new STEM Education Center at Camp Mah-Kah-Wee was provided for the Girl
Scouts of Citrus continuing the mission of building wonderful young ladies, pursuing their respective education goals.”
Interested in learning more about how you can help?
Our Relationship Development team in always interested in helping our alumnae, community partners and larger Florida
community find unique ways to show their support for Girl Scouts. Whether that means a donation to one of our properties,
providing space for troops to meet or simply offering a donation towards supplies, we appreciate everyone who helps us to
continue providing a legacy for our Girl Scouts in Central Florida.

A Magical Debut
A Magical Celebration at Walt Disney World
Girl Scouts of Citrus was honored to be a part of a special celebration at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom for the park
debut of Princess Elena of Avalor. The day started early, with 90 lucky Girl Scouts and volunteers gathering to prepare for their
role in the royal event.
CEO of Girl Scouts of Citrus, Maryann Barry (left), and Executive Vice
President of Original Programming and General Manager of Disney Junior
Worldwide, Nancy Kanter (right), award Girl Scout Ashley Chico of Orlando,
Fla. with the inaugural Scepter of Light award.
Digital Education) which is a course for middle and high school students
without access to immerse themselves in the world of code. At the end
of my journey, I was able to donate several computers to non-profit
organizations as well.” Congratulations Ashley!
Maryann Barry, Girl Scouts of Citrus CEO, says of the
event, “I am thrilled that Citrus Council played a big part
in this historic day, not only in the park debut of this
adventurous new princess, but in premiering the new
national partnership between Disney Channel and Girl
Scouts as well!”
The day was filled with wonderful events and
celebrations. Princess Elena of Avalor had her official
debut at the Magic Kingdom Park on August 11, 2016 and
Girl Scouts from across Citrus Council had an once-in-alifetime
opportunity to participate in the parade around
Main Street.
As part of the festivities, our own Ashley Chico was
honored as the first recipient of the Scepter of Light
Award for her Gold Award project called “Project
C.O.D.E.”. Ashley was inspired to do this work
because not all students have access to information
and training to pursue careers in STEM related fields.
Ashley created project C.O.D.E. (Collaborative Online
Princess Elena of Avalor reflects so many of the qualities our Girl Scouts
possess and share with their communities: leadership, compassion, critical
thinking, collaboration, and courage. That is why GSUSA and Disney have
also announced a new collaboration for girls with the debut of The Princess
Elena of Avalor Leadership Guide by Girl Scouts and Disney Channel.
Available in English and Spanish, the guide showcases activities and
conversations parents and caregivers can engage their preschool through fifth-grade girls in to boost their everyday leadership
skills and prepare them to create the future they imagine.
“We are very proud that Disney Channel chose one of our own Gold Awardees for the inaugural Scepter of Light scholarship”
says Barry. “We believe EVERY Girl Scout should strive to achieve her Gold Award and take her place as a community leader.
We hope that our volunteer leaders and parents will take advantage of the fun and engaging program developed around Elena
of Avalor as part of encouraging each GIRL on her journey to become the best Go-Getter, Innovator, Risk-Taker, and Leader she
can be!”

LEADERSHIP GUIDE
Girl Scouts of the USA and Disney Channel share
everyday ways to boost girls’ leadership skills.
8
Download your guide today at www.girlscouts.org

Connect
with
us
Are you on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram?
We are and we want to hear from you! There is nothing we love more than seeing all the cool things our troops and
girls are doing. Whether it’s attending a Council sponsored event or an awesome activity at your troop meetings,
we want to know what you’re up to this year.
Follow our pages and post pictures, tips & tricks or questions you have this year!
https://www.facebook.com/girlscoutsofcitrus
https://twitter.com/GirlScoutsCC
https://www.instagram.com/girlscoutscc/
9

Girls Sprout Their Wings
iFLY Orlando Partnership Introduces Girls to Thrills of Skydiving
It’s no secret that girls get excited about learning new things. But when a learning experience includes an awesome adventure
it makes for a lifetime of memories.
Through a special partnership with iFLY Orlando, Girl Scouts of Citrus can let their dreams take flight. Accredited instructors
will lead girls through the dynamics of physics as demonstrated through a vertical wind tunnel that moves air at speeds
high enough to keep a person safely floating. The girls will be suited up and instructed in indoor skydiving, also known as
Bodyflight, before taking flight.
The program, which is available to groups of
10 or more Girl Scouts, includes:
• STEM educational program
• Indoor skydiving
• Photo
• Fun patch
• Special ticket pricing - $39.95 *
• “Fly Like a Girl” t-shirts will be available for
$19.99*
* A portion of the proceeds of ticket will be donated to Girl Scouts of Citrus for
girl programming.
iFly and we are so excited to be able to offer this opportunity for our girls.
“iFLY Orlando is so happy to be partnering with the Girl Scouts of Citrus
Council. We are looking forward to the girls to participate in our S.T.E.M
program and also to get a chance to fly at our attraction. This program is
designed that we will eventually offer it to other troops around the country
where we have iFLY Indoor Skydiving locations.”
Nick Romeo, National Sales Manager
Girl Scouts of Citrus is also working with iFLY Orlando to offer a special
educational show that will include a “Physics and Flight” patch and discounted
pricing for indoor flights. The program will take place in October – watch for
details.
Janai (Troop 248) at iFly
10

Coming Together
“Our mission and core values are more important to our Central Florida community today than ever
before as we stare down fear and the dangers of stereotyping.”
-Maryann Barry, CEO
This has been a difficult summer for Central Florida. The events that took place
in June were all the more shocking given that tragedy struck in our own backyard.
As Girl Scouts, we have a mission to make the world a better place and
in the face of such events, we know the only option available to us is to pull
together and help others within our community through these difficult times.
The staff at the council office could not have been more grateful and inspired
by the outpouring of support from our Girl Scout sisterhood, both within Central
Florida and across the United States. We received phone calls and messages
from troops offering their support, prayers and offers to volunteer in any way
they could. From handing out bottles of water to the blood donors standing in
line to donating cookies to the local first responders, we are so proud of how
our girls and volunteers took the initiative to help their community.
It is during these times that we truly see the positive impact that Girl Scouting
has on the world and rededicate ourselves to our mission and promise. As a
council, we know that our girls, parents and volunteers are always ready to help
those in need. The events of this past summer just reinforced what we were already sure of: Girl Scouts make the world a
better place.
We know as parents and leaders, it becomes more important to understand
how we can teach our girls about the scary events that may be occurring
around them. Here are some helpful suggestions for how to discuss these
issues with the kids in your life:
Don’t hide from it
As parents and leaders, it may be very tempting to change the subject when
your girl asks difficult questions. Especially if you are trying to protect them
from being scared. But avoidance will only make her more curious and potentially
seek answers elsewhere. Keep your answers basic and appropriate for her
age/understanding. Always emphasize the positive sides of these stories; such
as the people helping others and the ways she can help. Do not speculate about the
situation or assume – as an adult we want to be able to provide all the answers but it
is okay to say that you don’t know.
Dr Win Girl Scouts from Troops 166, 829 &
2034 making care packages
Comfort and Reassurance
It is natural for a child to be scared harm may come to her or someone she loves. Do your best to remind her these incidences
are rare and she always will have people ready to keep her away from harm. Take the opportunity to go over safety instructions
in cases of emergency and go over what she has learned in school just in case something ever happens. Again, focus on
proactive steps she can take to feel more secure in her surroundings.
Simplicity is best
Always remember that the details of politics, terrorism and/or mental illness may not only be over her level of comprehension,
but may also instill new fears in her. Explain the cause of these events without adding on more information than she needs to
hear in order to have a basic understanding of what has happened and to whom. Also remember that if you have not had a
conversation previously about certain topics (ex. death, mental illness, etc.) it may be harder for her to comprehend how they
can be related to this particular incident. Be patient and always remember to stay calm.
Be positive
Remind your Girl Scout about how she is an advocate for making the world a better place. That she, and others like her, can
help to spread kindness, understanding and tolerance. Teach her about other cultures and beliefs so she can understand why
people may think or act differently than others. Help her Take Action by helping out at a community center and meeting new
people with different ideas to broaden her understanding of the world around her.
11

Saving lives like a Girl Scout
A girl can do anything, including save lives.
How one Girl Scout has saved more than one life already
Emma may only be
going into the seventh
grade, but she has already
impacted the
lives of four people in
the most amazing way
possible - by saving
their lives.
This is what being a Girl
Scout is all about.
12

What can we say but....Emma, you’re what Girl Scouts is all about!
It began with an ordinary day at Cocoa Beach Pier. Kids were playing in the water
while onlookers were enjoying a beautiful sunny day. That’s when it happened:
three young boys were pulled out in the rip current and screaming for help. Emma
didn’t need to think twice about what she needed to do. No one else noticed the
boys crying for help and the lifeguards had already left for the day. With the help of
her cool head and trusty surfboard, Emma went to action.
Swimming out to the boys, Emma helped pull all three onto her surfboard to
safety. They were grateful but their struggle wasn’t over yet. Emma still needed
to navigate them back to the safety of the shoreline. A few times they slipped off
the board but Emma was determined and kept helping them back up. Together,
against the strong current, Emma and the boys made it back to shore and were
greeted with joy and appreciation from parents and other onlookers.
We reached out to Emma to share her story and tell us what it’s like to know you have saved someone else’s life:
Tell us about yourself (grade, hobbies, interests, etc.)
I’m going into 7th grade and I love to surf, skate and play volleyball.
How long have you been a Girl Scout?
4 years
What do you love most about being a Girl Scout?
Going camping, doing activities, going on trips, and helping others in my community.
Tell us about the event at the beach.
I was at Cocoa Beach surfing with a friend and heard “help” three times.
I looked and saw 3 little boys pushing each other deep into the water
trying to save themselves as neither of them could swim, trying to save
themselves. The water was about 7ft deep and in a rip current. I swam
close to them and told them to grab my surfboard. I pushed the board
with the boys on it to where they could touch the bottom and walk into
the shore. There was no life guard on duty. The boys walked up to their
frantic mom who just swept them away with a Thank you or anything.
There was a youth group from Kentucky there who thanked me for
saving the boys.
But this isn’t your first experience saving a life. Can you tell us about the previous event that led to you being awarded
the Medal of Honor?
I was in 3rd grade and was sitting across a close friend who was sucking on pistachio shells. While sucking on one it got stuck
in her throat and started choking. I asked her if she could breath and she shook her head no. I went behind her and did the
Heimlich maneuver on her. When I did that the shell flew out and she could breathe again.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
Architectural designer or professional surfer.
What advice do you have for other Girl Scouts who might find themselves in a scary or challenging situation?
Trust in God, stay brave, listen to your heart to do the right thing and be a leader, not a follower.
13

Girls and Philanthropy
Making an Impact on Our Communities
When girls engage in community service projects, they learn how to
recognize issues and find solutions, making an impact on our world
and helping other people. At the same time they develop integrity,
strength and character while learning the value of actively advocating
for a worthy cause.
Brownies Earn Philanthropy Badge
As part of their work toward earning the Philanthropy Badge, Brownies
met at the Alex and Ani shop in Winter Park for a Charmed by Charity
event. In addition to learning about corporate philanthropy, the girls
experienced an event that promotes community by bringing people
together to shop, socialize and give back.
Through a program called Charity by Design, Alex and Ani empowers
nonprofit organizations to make the world a better place by capturing
the power of positive energy in creative designs while contributing a portion of the proceeds from Charmed by Charity events
to the sponsoring nonprofit organization.
The girls also visited with firefighters at the Winter Park Fire Department to learn how firefighters help people when disaster
strikes.
Junior Troop Makes Community Service a Priority
When the girls of Junior Troop 4618 at Lake Whitney Elementary in Winter Garden decided to direct their efforts toward
community service this year, they took the commitment to a whole new level. In two short months, the girls identified three
causes that touched their hearts.
The Give Hope Foundation provides support to children and families in Central Florida who are battling pediatric cancer.
One of the things the organization strives to do is provide Apple products to patients so they can stay connected to family
and friends and have a little fun. The girls went to the Apple store at the Mall at Millennia, where they provided gift bags,
Build-A-Bear animals and headphones to go along with the new iPads. The donation of more than $600 in items was much
appreciated by the Give Hope Foundation.
As the girls prepared for Camporee, they learned that their physical
education teacher, Mr. Bruton, had passed away. He had a great
influence on the school’s students and the girls were devastated.
Upon learning that a memorial fund was being established, the girls
decided to honor Mr. Bruton with a $250 donation.
continue to weed, water and tend to the gardens.
As they were considering other ways to give back to their community,
the girls noticed that the gardens at Lake Whitney Elementary could
use some sprucing up. After establishing a budget of $500 for the
project, the girls got busy. They cleaned up trash in the area, painted
the raised garden box and spruced up the dolphin display. The girls
also planted tomatoes, lavender, basil and other plants, mulched, and
Troop leader, Patricia Perry, and co-leader, Beatrice Quesada, are incredibly proud of all the girls. They have learned to work as
a team to find solutions to problems. As they continue with Girl Scouts, we expect they will teach others what they learned
this past year – respect, community service, building relationships and nurturing not only the garden, but also each other and
family.
14

Buy 5 Cookie Winners
Remember our Buy 5 Cookie Giveaway?
We love cookies and what’s more, we love sharing our love of cookies with five special winners of our “Buy 5”
Cookie giveaway during cookie season. This year was no exception - please join us in congratulating these six lucky
winners from each of our counties.
Lake
Jeff D.
Volusia
Karen C.
Brevard
Teresa B.
Osceola
Wendy S.
Orange
Johnny L.
Seminole
Leo Q.
15

Get Real with Girls
Get Real with Girls
By Ajah Harris, Get Real Coordinator
Get Real is a 30-week curriculum-based life skills and literacy
program for at-risk 6th-8th grade middle school girls. Topics
include self-esteem, love and caring for others, peer pressure,
conflict resolution and team building. Many of the girls have
never been Girl Scouts, and the Get Real program allows
them to have the same experience as traditional troops, allowing
girls to develop positive attitudes towards life, make
new friends, and discover self-worth.
For Spring Break, girls attended Camp Mah-Kah-Wee for an
overnight experience. For many, this was their first camping or
overnight experience, and it made a big impression. They explored
canoeing, archery, high and low obstacle courses
and building a campfire.
Enjoying an overnight trip to camp
In addition to the funding provided by the State of Florida specifically for the Get Real experience, the program is
also supported by a partnership with City Year Orlando. City Year corps members work alongside Citrus staff and
volunteers, as mentors to the girls, leading activities and serving as role models.
Get Real programming takes place during the course of the school year and is scheduled to begin again in Fall
2016. There’s no shortage of fun during the summer months, though. Girls have the opportunity participate in a
one-day program this summer, titled “Beauty and I”. The day’s activities will focus on self-esteem and self-worth. A
guest facilitator will lead girls in their exploration and discussions, and the day will wrap up with team building and
self-esteem activities.
What the girls have to say!
Alexis (8th grader)
“My Girl Scout experience has been very exciting and fun with my peers. Girl Scouts has made me get a better
comprehension of self-respect and building character.”
Asia (7th grader)
“I learned a lot about Girl Scouts, we played a lot of fun games, sold cookies, etc. We go on a lot of field trips, like
camping, baby sitting clubs, Disney (lock-in). Girl Scouts taught me a lot of important things, like to treat people
how you want to be treated, respect yourself, poetry, recycle, and embrace your beauty.”
Serene (6th Grader)
“In Girl Scouts I like the games and activities because it’s fun and happy because you get to know other girls better
and you get to know how to do different types of games and things with the girls. Also you get to play games you
didn’t know. In Girl Scouts I can get to know girls that I didn’t know then they become my friends and that are what
I like so far in Girl Scouts.”
A note from Ajah, Get Real staff coordinator:
What I love about working with the Get Real program can be summed up by saying: I love working with the girls.
Being able to attend my four schools and knowing that at each school you are going to experience different personalities
makes the days more exciting. Having the opportunity to plan lessons on self-esteem, anti-bullying, team
building, goal setting, and that best fit those schools and building strong relationships with the girls allows for each
to have a memorable Girl Scout Experience.
16

J.O.S.H: Cookies for Troops
A Sweet Partnership
On Saturday, April 30, a group of volunteers from Just Our Soldiers’
Helpers (J.O.S.H.) and Girl Scouts of Citrus Voice girls and staff gathered
with one goal in mind: packing up cookies for our troops overseas. It was
an early start but everyone arrived with enthusiasm as they looked over
the large pallets filled with Girl Scout cookies just waiting to be boxed up.
J.O.S.H. is a volunteer led and operated non-profit organization operating
near Orlando, FL. It began when the founder’s nephew, Josh, was deployed
to Afghanistan in 2010. Kathy learned of the soldiers serving
on the front lines with no access to stores to purchase snacks
or basic hygiene products. Kathy was already shipping care
packages to her nephew, but she knew she wanted to help his
fellow soldiers as well.
The day began by packaging up over 2000 cases of Girl Scout
cookies, which were donated by customers during the 2016
Cookie Program. The boxes were then carefully weighed and
packed up on the truck for shipping. It was a lot of hard work, but
with the help of dedicated volunteers and the girls from the Girl
Scouts of Citrus Voice group, it was an exciting day filled with a lot
of fun and laughter.
A big thanks to all the Citrus troops during the Cookie Program for supporting this amazing project!
17

Hello! It’s great to meet you!
We know it’s nice to have a face to go with the name so we wanted to take a moment to introduce ourselves to all
our parents, volunteers and girls. The next time you see us at an event, please say hello!
administration
Maryann Barry
CEO
Sandy Gallagher
Executive Assistant
to CEO
Zandra Washington
Chief Operating Officer
Jenn Hollern
Business Analyst/
Salesforce Administrator
Chiara Lazarus
Data Manager
business services
Marie Snead
Sr. Director of Business
& Retail Services
Patricia Goss
Administrative
Support
Sharon Seifert
Administrative
Support
Millie Gomez
Administrative
Support
customer care
Cindy Larabee
Customer Care
Manager
Ellen Wallace
Customer Care
Specialist
Brenda Hall
Customer Care
Specialist
18

troop support
Crystal Jones
VP of Troop Support &
Girl Experience
Susie Marsh
Director of Troop
Support
Ann Burczyk
Community Team
Manager
Jennifer Gillis
Community Team
Manager
Kim Jones
Community Team
Manager
Sheri Carnicella
Troop Support
Manager K-5
Kristen Bedard
Troop Support
Specialist K-3
Danielle Wilson
Troop Support
Specialist 4-5
Mary Battaglia
Troop Support
Manager 6-12
Jocelyn Ludwig
Troop Support
Specialist 6-12
Patty Muller
Adult Learning
Manager
fund development
Toni Castillo
Chief Relationship
Officer
Lydia Sealey
Director of
Community Relations
19

program team
Janay McClarin
Director of Program
Bonnie Kooken
Program Manager
Kassandra Holmes
STEM Coordinator
Theresa Rivera
Sr. Director of Outdoor
Program & Property
Aimee Beauchamp
Outdoor Program
Manager
John Wallace
Ranger
Ivan Lopez
Ranger
Mike Brennan
Ranger
retail
Maria Teal
Lead Retail Specialist
Vionette Martinez
Retail Specialist
Emily Klamerus
Part-Time Specialist
20

membership & marketing
No
photo
available
Emiko Beck
VP of Membership &
Marketing
Kristin Ramirez
Director of
Recruitment
Kalley Dunn
Membership
Recruitment Manager
Rachel Howard
Membership
Recruitment Manager
Melba Rubera
Membership
Recruitment Manager
Candice Torres
Membership
Onboarding Manager
Laura Schindler
Membership
Onboarding Manager
Cecilia Scott
Director of Grant
Programs
Ajah Harris
Get Real Coordinator
product program
No
photo
available
Debbie Zito
Director of Products
Kim Acevedo
Products Coordinator
21

Women of Distinction
How does Kelsey, a Girl Scout Cadette, become a CEO in 20 years? What
prepares Sasha, a Brownie, to conquer children’s hunger when she turns 24?
What you say or do today may hold the answer to those questions. Just ask any
of our nominees for Women of Distinction Awards.
Inspiration abounds in the women we will honor in September. It is both
contagious and renewable. Rekindle your own inspiration at this year’s
celebration and you will see the young Girl Scouts you mentor become even more motivated and enthusiastic.
When Betsy Farmer watched her son Luke’s determination to succeed and learn, she was inspired to take action
that would help all special needs children – and along the way, she changed the world for many families and
children.
In 1987, Betsy created the Space Coast Early Intervention Center where, for the first time,
children with and without special needs played and learned alongside each other. The Center
received national recognition for its innovative and caring approach. Next, Betsy worked with
the business community to expand employment opportunities for those with special needs.
Now, she’s taken on a huge challenge: Promise of Brevard, an innovative apartment residential
community for special needs men and women to live independently with the support they
need. And this all happened because so many people inspired and supported Betsy and her
dreams.
Honored as a Girl Scout Woman of Distinction in 2015, Betsy’s journey serves as inspiration to many young women.
“At The Girl Scouts of Citrus, we believe in and encourage the development of the power in every girl. Inspirational,
accomplished women leaders like our nominees serve as role models for today’s girls – girls who will some day
become women of distinction in their own right,” said Girl Scouts of Citrus Council CEO Maryann Barry.
Suneera Madhani, honored with the 2015 Shining Star Award, became the youngest published
author in Pakistan at age 8. As a young woman entrepreneur, she overcame resistance to
her disruptive business concept from powerful financial industry leaders. Her company
Fattmerchant has grown to 25 employees in two years and recently garnered an additional
$1.4 million in venture capital. Today, she steers the company’s growth while also sharing her
passion with young women, teaching them leadership and business skills in Tech Bootcamps
and mentoring programs.
Inspiring young people begins with a word, a step, an example. As a Troop Leader, volunteer, ally or Alumnus -
your actions, encouragement and support can be the spark that shows a young Girl Scout that she CAN make a
difference, that she CAN pursue her dreams. And that makes all the difference in the world.
Join us to be inspired and celebrate the 2016 Women of Distinction on September 17, 2016 at Rosen Shingle Creek.
RSVP to 866.996.6338.
22

Counting Her Chickens
Undercover Chicken Farmer
Putting her business skills to good use
We just love to hear the amazing ways Girl Scouts in Central Florida take
the skills they learn in Girl Scouts and apply them to amazing projects.
In the case of Madison, 11, she demonstrates just how cool it is when the
early bird gets the worm.
It all started in the second grade when Madison’s mom wanted to
encourage Madison to read more.
“I didn’t like to read. It was way too hard. So my mom asked me what she
needed to do to encourage me more. I begged her for two or three tiny
chicks” explains Madison.
As her interest in chicken breeds grew, she spent hours researching how
to raise healthy and happy birds. Then she learned about rare breeds
and heritage breeds. She has expanded her flock to include two heritage
breeds and 11 rare or imported breeds. She then became licensed
through the National Poultry Improvement Plan and the State of Florida to
sell hatching eggs and live birds throughout the United States.
We were super excited to take an opportunity to discuss this amazing girl
and her awesome work with birds.
What kinds of challenges did you face in starting your own company?
Challenges have been building pens, dealing with predators, proper diet and nutrition for the birds to be healthy, and disease
prevention. Predators have been difficult, it hurts to lose a bird you’ve raised from a chick and to know they got hurt or killed.
So, I talked to a lot of my friends in the business and now I can identify predator behavior and defend against it much better.
What’s the best part of running a company?
Successes are the best! Raising a great group of birds and selling them to nice farmers makes me very happy. Working toward
great hatch rates is another successful part of my business. If I put 100 hatching eggs into the incubator, humidity and temperature
stability can quickly change my success rate!
What skills did you learn in Girl Scouts to help you in this project?
While selling cookies at booths, I had to learn how to handle money, talk to strangers, and communicate what I needed them
to know. I use that same exact sales method with my farm swap sales and when I go to shows. My mom calls it “networking”.
Plus, it takes a lot of hard work to feed and water the chickens everyday. Girl Scouts, my troop leader, and of course my parents
taught me hard work pays off.
Tell us about some of your other hobbies?
Other than raising rare breed chickens, I have a blue belt in karate, love playing with my four dogs, and take contemporary
dance and ballet lessons. However, most of my free time is spent growing my chicken business.
Do you have any advice for other girls looking to start their own business?
Check for licenses and rules you need to know about in your local town or State. Make sure you have read about how to create
your business, like a company or partnership, you need to make it a real business. Also, try to learn about it each step of the
way. For example, we are building my website next, but I wasn’t ready to until this year, when I learned how to do it with a little
help.
Any ideas what you want to be when you grow up?
I’m only 11, so there’s a lot of possibilities, but from my social studies project in 4th grade about Juliette Gordon Low, I know
that there have been hundreds of former Girl Scouts that went on to be very successful.
23

Impact of the Outdoors
It’s summertime: time for girls to be girls…at camp!
Camp is the ideal place for girls to explore leadership, build skills, and develop a deep appreciation for
nature. Whether for a day, a week, or longer, Girl Scout camp gives girls an opportunity to grow, explore,
and have fun under the guidance of caring, trained adults. Here’s how…
• Girls develop life skills. Girls are growing in their independence by spending time away from their
family unit, and primarily caring for their own needs (with the support of caring adult mentors, of course).
From packing their bags and rolling their sleeping bags, to brushing their teeth in the morning and making
healthy choices at lunch time, to problem solving and surviving through rainy days, these girls are building
their independence, one day at a time.
• Girls practice teamwork. When girls are at camp, they’re part of a strong sisterhood. Whether with
their cabin mates or fellow group members for the day, they’re experiencing it all together. They’ll vote on
which activities they want to do (tie dye or a nature hike, for example), form consensus around which skit to perform
at campfire, or settle minor disagreements on how to decorate the cabin. Adult mentors help girls practice the skills
to get along and work as a team.
• Girls have fun! Girls experience three distinct types of fun while at camp and while experiencing
the outdoors in the summer time:
• People fun. Everything is more fun with a friend, right? Girls often attend camp with a friend, but
then connect with tons of new friends from across town, across the state, or around the world.
They get to kick back or go on adventures with other girls just like them.
• Nature fun. The outdoor environment provides tons of opportunity for exploration, creativity, and
soaking in a relaxing and rejuvenating vibe. Girls find themselves comfortable and relaxed in nature.
Plus, they’re learning how they can preserve natural resources and be kind to other living creatures.
• Hard fun. These girls are up to the challenge. Whether they’re sleeping away from home for the
first time or climbing to the top of the ropes course, there will be challenges to overcome. They
develop perseverance and grit through the daily activities provided at camp.
Experiencing all of this in the outdoor environment is so important for girls!
Spending time outdoors in nature is different from playing or learning inside. Here’s how . . .
• Outdoor spaces support physical play. Unlike most indoor environments, the outdoors offers open space where
children are able to be messy, make noise, and move in more physically intense ways. This allows them to develop
their movement capability and confidence—both of which create foundations
for physically active lifestyles and general health.
• Time in nature promotes attention restoration. Spending time in nature
(even just a walk in a park) has been shown to improve concentration and
creative reasoning among children and adults, including those with attention
deficits.
• Nature provides novelty and challenge, which enhance leadership. Outdoor
experiences often place girls in new physical, psychological, and social
situations that motivate curiosity and foster a sense of discovery. Authentic
challenges in nature (think . . . starting a fire in the rain or negotiating a set of
whitewater rapids) require girls to become more self-aware and to cooperate,
communicate, and solve problems more effectively.
And we’ve got just the place(s) to do it all!!
Here in Central Florida, we’ve worked hard to preserve and maintain our seven camps and outdoor spaces. Our girls are the
true owners and stewards of these properties, and we’re proud to give girls a place to call their Girl Scout home.
24

Impact of the Outdoors
Exploring Riverpoint Program Center
With beautiful views of the Banana River and Sykes Creek on both sides of our
Riverpoint property, it makes outdoor activities look like luxury. The Alford Lodge is
located on Merritt Island in Brevard County and offers Girl Scouts and our community
partners a serene outdoor experience.
Why do we love Riverpoint Program Center?
This camp is secluded enough to offer girls the chance to enjoy getting back to nature
while still being close enough to area attractions (can we say Cocoa Beach?!?)
to allow for some great field trips. One of our most popular camp sessions is our
surfing camp where girls get to ride the waves all day. Join us for a walk in the
woods or making s’mores over the campfire, Riverpoint is a destination all it’s own.
Service project shout outs!
• Thanks to Citrus Gold we have new bunk beds that have been put in place increasing the capacity from
32 to 50 and are waiting for the order to come in for a fleet of paddle boards and kayaks. We have also
increased the indoor tables and chairs.
• New beams, railings and steps have be installed
• The shoreline along each side of the property was cleared to for the deployment of the Oyster Mats on
Saturday, May 21. This is a state program to help increase the health of the lagoons. They are also responsible
for the removal of some invasive trees and plants such as the Brazilian Pepper Tree.
25

Impact of the Outdoors
Exploring Mah-Kah-Wee Program Center
Mah-Kah-Wee Program Center provides girls and adults outdoor programming all year. Every
summer, Girl Scouts and their friends from across the country celebrate one of the longest Girl
Scouting traditions: summer camp.
Both resident and day camps are offered every summer, promising favorites like horseback riding
and water adventures. But don’t be surprised by emerging camps for modern girls like surfing and
dragon boating!
During the year, Girl Scouts of Citrus welcomes community and corporate partners to outdoor
leadership experiences through our low and high-ropes training.
Why do we love Mah-Kah-Wee Program Center?
What’s not to love about a beautiful camp complete with a gaga pit, swimming pool and a gorgeous
lake to enjoy? From a day spent on the challenge course to a sunset campfire, Mah-Kah-Wee Program Center is one of
those gorgeous places that girls remember for an entire lifetime.
A Special Thanks to
Troop 4082
Using the proceeds from the Luv2Run Race.
this group of girls decided to update the
Nature Center at Mah-Kah-Wee
Program Center for future generations
26
Updates around Camp
• Keller Williams Red Day of Volunteering – We had approximately 40 staff come out to volunteer to
pressure wash and seal and stain the cabins in Shady Pines. They also cleaned them all out to prepare
for summer. Another group was at the lodge painting the entire outside of the building. All supplies were
donated as well.
• Day of Service - Troops, Alumnae and volunteers came out to help prepare camp for the summer.
Troops went into Shady Pines, Eagles Roost & Skeeter Hollow and cut back brush away from all the cabins,
trimmed trees were cut up, roots and vines were cleared. Inside of cabins were cleaned and prepped
in Eagles Roost & Skeeter Hollow are also responsible for the removal of some invasive trees and plants
such as the Brazilian Pepper Tree.
• Jacob Gilger Eagle Scout Project (Troop 131 from Oviedo): Created a Gaga Pit in the day site.

100 Years of Gold
Making a Difference in the World, One Girl at a Time
Have you heard about the Girl Scout Gold Award? If not, you are in for a treat.
The Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest recognition girls can receive during their
Girl Scout experience. This award is available for any Girl Scout in high school to
earn and take on the world by designing and implementing a project that makes
a significant, long-term impact on her community. To earn it is no easy task, but
each year we are pleased to present this award to hundreds of girls across the
United States who have stood up to the challenge and persevered.
History and Tradition
The first Golden Eagle of Merit was handed out in 1916, starting a proud tradition that has inspired lives and
changed communities. Since then, almost one million girls have earned this distinction.
Why Go for Gold?
Girl Scouts are shown from the beginning of their journey that to be a Girl Scout means making a
difference in the world and looking for ways to make their community a better place. This can start with
even our youngest girls running a food drive to our older girls helping save lives through their innovation,
creativity and determination. The Gold Award is the culmination of all those years of learning about how
one girl can make a difference.
Congratulations to all our 2016 Gold Award Recipients at Girl Scouts of Citrus Council:
Kathryn Abely
Patricia Abely
Rebecca Ammons
Nicole Barbee
Cassandra Baron
Gabi Bitar
Katerina Bourva
Paige Callan
Ashley Chico
Milica Courtenay
Abi Dandapani
Karla Giron
Ellie Handberg
Elizabeth Hertz
Taylor Hibel
Jessica Hubert
Emma Jackson
Kayla Kidd
Tabitha McElwain
Elise Morton
Olivia Nation
Alayna Nicholson
Marlee Nickerson
Alisha Rajan
Vicki Roach
Makayla Rymkos
Renee Sang
Rebecca Snyder
Julie Thielhelm
Sarah Tracey
Linda Van Der Heyden
Fun Facts
Gold Award recipients spend between one and two years on their projects.
The average age of Gold Award recipients is 17.
This year at Girl Scouts of Citrus, 31 girls earned their Gold Award.
Join us in congratulating all our 2016 Gold Award Recipients on a job well done!
27

28
2016 In Her Honor
In Her Honor
Congratulations to all our 2016 Gold Awardees!
Perhaps best summed up by our Vice President of Troop
Support and Girl Experience, Crystal Jones, In Her Honor
is “our favorite event of the year”. From gathering together
to recognize the achievements and hard work of our Gold
Award recipients to listening to the girls describe what
type of impact their projects had on their communities,
we can’t think of a better way to showcase just how
important Girl Scouts remains in our world today.
This year, on June 12, we honored the work of 31 recipients. But even more special was, at the same time,
recognizing over 100 years of girls earning their Gold Award. We know that the name may have changed
but the value this recognition has meant to girls has remained the same. It is a symbol of the culmination
of years of dedication as a Girl Scout and standing up to take action when a problem arises. Each year we
are amazed at the projects that have been tackled and this year was
no exception.
Some highlights of this year’s work includes a commitment to banish
cyberbullying from our school system, creating a new dorm room
for dogs in need of training, and bringing feminine hygiene packages
to underprivileged students. As with years past, we had the special
privilege to invite these amazing girls to the stage to share just what
their projects meant to them. And it was here they shared how they
knew, without any doubt, completing their Gold Award project was
going to help their community and themselves become our future
leaders of tomorrow.
Paige Callan (center) and
Maryann Barry (right)
Maryann Barry (left) and
Dr. Shanta Barton-Stubbs
Guest Speaker: Dr Shanta Barton-Stubbs
We would like to extend our gratitude to our keynote speaker, Dr. Shanta
Barton-Stubbs who offered us her inspiring words of how by believing in
yourself and committing to your dreams, anyone can accomplish anything,
no matter what anyone says.
Special Recognitions
We would like to offer our congratulations to Girl Scouts of Citrus Young
Woman of Distinction Recipient, Paige Callan and her project to build an
entryway for an African American Cemetery which had fallen into disrepair.
Through her determination, Paige was able to honor the lives and families
of those laid to rest here and create a beautiful tribute for the community
to enjoy for generations to come. We recognize Paige for her commitment
to make the community a better place.
Girls interested in learning more about earning their Gold Award can contact our Program Manager
Bonnie Kooken at bkooken@citrus-gs.org to learn more!

Save the Date
Destination Exploration & The Fall Product Rally
September 10, 2016
Calling all Troop Leaders, Parents and Girls! Get ready to spend this day exploring everything
Girl Scouts of Citrus has to offer for the 2016-2017 year.
Outdoor Skills - Tent Camping Training
September 17-18, 2016
This level of camping is geared towards the troops/groups wanting to use platform or
ground tents while camping in an established camp site.
Elements Training for Program Aides
September 24, 2016
Leadership Training for girls looking to become Program Aides
Elements Training for Counselors in Training
September 24-25, 2016
Leadership Training for girls looking to become Counselors in Training
Outdoor Skills - Cabin Camping Training
October 8-9, 2016
This level of camping is geared towards troops/groups wanting to stay in a cabin, lodge
or indoor facility while camping.
Dancing Through the Forest - Mom & Me Weekend
October 14-16, 2016, 2016
This Mom n’ Me will teach you about the outdoors and get your boogie shoes moving!
Outdoor Skills - Backpacking Part 1 Training
October 22, 2016
This level of camping is designed for troops/groups that are ready to take the outdoors
to the next level. This training teaches the fundamentals of basic backpacking.
Register Now!
To register for these or any of our other amazing programs,
visit us online at www.citrus-gs.org and click on “Events”.
29