Heritage Headlines for Complete Coverage of AHG’S 2012 National Leadership Conference and Veteran’S Day!

American Heritage Girls’ Inside this edition: AHG’s National Day of Service p. 2-4 Program Opportunities p. 4-6 Heritage Outdoors p. 7-11 Brand Updates p. 11 Girl Leadership p. 12-18 Headlines New Merchandise p. 19

Dear Friends, celebrated it as a traditional English harvest feast, to which they invited the local Wampanoag Indians. The holidays are upon us. Joy fills the air. Days of thanksgiving were celebrated throughout One of my favorite holidays is Thanksgiving. I love the the colonies after fall harvests. All thirteen colonies pure essence of the concept of such a holiday. Although did not, however, celebrate Thanksgiving at the it may seem like we live in a very different America than same time until October 1777. George Washington the one the pilgrims settled, it is still vitally important that was the first president to declare the holiday, in Americans give thanks to their Maker, the provider of all 1789 and by the mid–1800s, many states observed gifts. Setting apart a date on the national calendar is vital a Thanksgiving holiday. Meanwhile, the poet and to a God loving America and I editor Sarah J. Hale had pray that this commemoration begun lobbying for a is never abolished - for national Thanksgiving a nation without God will To these bounties, which are so holiday. During the Civil certainly perish. constantly enjoyed that we are prone War, President Abraham Each year I am hostess to to forget the source from which they Lincoln, looking for dozens of loved ones as we come, others have been added which ways to unite the nation, discussed the subject gather at our table to celebrate are of so extraordinary a nature the blessings of our Father. As with Hale. In 1863, he we pray before the meal we that they cannot fail to penetrate gave his Thanksgiving thank God for the gifts of food, and soften even the heart which Proclamation, declaring health and family. But what is habitually insensible to the ever- the last Thursday in we must add is a thankfulness November a day of for God – the fact that He is watchful providence of Almighty God. thanksgiving. triune and lives within us Abraham Lincoln, each and every day. Sure the I am grateful for Bradford, food, health and family are Thanksgiving Proclamation, 1863 Washington, Hale and important but if all of these Lincoln for securing the were lost, we would still have place in history that we our relationship with God – the know as Thanksgiving. only True Blessing that withstands all of life’s trials. May we continue this important tradition despite the current state of America and provide its people David knew of the True Blessing given to mankind even a day of reflection for the blessing of His gift and before the birth of Christ. He spoke of this and the need the True Blessing of Jesus to each of those who for Thanksgiving in Psalm 100: 4,5. “Enter His gates have faith in Him. with thanksgiving, And His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him; bless His name. For the Lord is good; His Wishing you a blessed Thanksgiving, Christmas loving kindness is everlasting, And His faithfulness to all and New Year, generations.” The first American Thanksgiving was celebrated in 1621, Patti to commemorate the harvest reaped by the Plymouth Patti Garibay Colony after a harsh winter. In that year Governor William National Executive Director and Founder Bradford proclaimed a day of thanksgiving. The colonists 1 National Day of Service

Open Arms and American Heritage Girls. channels that lead to the beach. Extended Hands “Real experience serving others gives The Troop joined the La Habra American Heritage Girls Troops girls the opportunity to grow in their faith cleanup of Coyote Creek. They had participate in First Annual and discover their God-given purpose.” approximately 15 girls participate National Day of Service from the Troop in addition to parents The National Day of Service also and some siblings. One of the groups coincided with AHG’s seventeenth of girls even pulled a shopping cart she str her han anniversary. “There is no better way nd etc ut ds out of the creek. A h o :, e t to celebrate than to give back to r o o s o t p h communities across our nation,” added Troop KY2917 served their Charter

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new program year. other side of the world will know that American Heritage Girls they are worthy & greatly loved by demonstrated faith with open Troop Tales from NDS 2012 God. By the end of the event the arms and extended hands in acts Troop had 15 finished dresses with MO1412 - “Service shows I care about more being finished up at home. of kindness to celebrate the first people,” Olivia said about her service annual National Day of Service. at a local pregnancy shelter. “I hope my OH3017 collected Items for HUGS The National Day of Service is service shows that Jesus cares for them Bags! Their goal was to purchase AHG’s response to the command too.” Olivia from MO1412 offered face and fill 20 bags. Despite being a small of Jesus to “love one another.” painting to the children at the pregnancy Troop of 18 girls … they reached Across the nation, Troops shelter. their goal! The Troop collected coordinated efforts on the third week enough money to purchase 20 bags CA1776 La Mirada,CA participated of September. Troops selected (to the penny!) and collected almost in a County wide effort to keep their 200 items to fill the bags. God is projects to fulfill the AHG mission to beaches clean by cleaning local water serve God, family, community and country. Projects include assisting in pregnancy centers, collecting and distributing food to the needy, collecting and assembling toiletries for the homeless and assisting the elderly with home repair projects. Many participated in local beautification projects from beaches to local parks. And many served their charter organization washing windows, cleaning and hosting events. “Service is a primary component of AHG’s values to incorporate faith in the development of integrity, character and leadership skills,” said Patti Garibay, national executive director and founder of 2 good! through Beans & Rice, Inc. Many cannot decorated and baked cookies and afford fresh produce and these efforts made thank you cards for the Fire MI0408 participated by cleaning put some of the most nutritious and Department. The girls were treated at Bennett Park. The girls swept, healthy options directly into their hands. to a tour of the fire station by the raked, and picked up trash for 2 It was also an opportunity for the girls gracious firefighters! The other group hours. Then they enjoyed a picnic to learn about the biblical principles of participated in Buckner’s Shoes for lunch and played. gleaning and study the book of Ruth and Orphan Souls. Shoes for Orphan Troop TN0131 had two project her example. Souls®, the largest humanitarian options. A dozen PiPa’s participated aid project of Buckner International, Troop WV0252 helped at a local animal provide new shoes and socks to in the citizen-scientist program at shelter. They had many dogs that needed Tremont Institute in the Great Smoky orphans and vulnerable children in to be walked. The dogs and shelter the United States and throughout Mountains National Park. Their workers were very appreciative of the job was to find and tag monarch the world. The girls processed 1,200 Troop’s help. The girls had a wonderful pairs of shoes on Saturday! butterflies before they migrate to time using their natural talents and love Mexico. Another group of 30 girls for dogs to serve! NM2010 created pocket dolls for (mostly Pathfinders, Tenderhearts, orphans in South Korea. American and Explorers), made “Brainbows,” AL0125 decorated cupcakes to deliver military men and women there which are hair bows created to raise to those who volunteer their funds for arteriovenous malformation serve others time with the (AVM) research. One of the Troop’s every day. The children of the girls lost her cousin to AVM a few girls started their “She opens her arms orphanage. years ago, so this cause is close to delivery at the The girls, with their hearts. They also decorated gift Millbrook Fire to the poor and extends the help of bags and made cards for the Sock Department and her hands to the needy.” their parents, Monkey Ministry, which makes and were thrilled sewed 4 dolls distributes adorable sock monkeys when an offer Proverbs 31:20 each, each to residents of nursing homes and to “pull out the one totally children’s hospitals. And finally girls fire trucks” was unique, using decorated patriotic pumpkins for extended and old clothing scraps. Each doll has residents of a low-income senior beyond excited when the truck doors a little pocket, to hold a small toy. housing facility. were opened and they were allowed to The Troop took a photo of each explore the equipment. Next they traveled VA2345 participated with the Society girl holding the doll she made and across the street to deliver cupcakes to attached the photo to the doll. of St. Andrew to glean produce the Millbrook Police Department. provided by gardens at Virginia SD1191 spent an hour volunteering Tech’s Kentland Farms, that would TX1007 participated in two separate at Children’s Care Hospital and be distributed to the local community service projects. One group of girls

3 School. Girls had the opportunity to learn about the children that reside there while assisting with therapies and play activities. This service project coincided with Free to Be Blessing activities, emphasizing the idea that although some of the children at CCHS may be different, they are all special to God. Troop TX6122 conducted a door-to-door canned food drive to benefit Community Storehouse. Twenty six girls participated and they collected 255 lbs. of canned Troops participating in AHG’s First Annual food!!! One of the groups encountered a National Day of Service include: man who sadly said he had nothing in his pantry and couldn’t give; the girls left a bag of food collected from his neighbors on his AL0125 MI1313 SC2116 doorstep! The girls were blessed in both the AZ0015 MI3130 SC7777 giving and receiving!! CA0029 MI3498 SD1191 CA0222 MN0031 T N0131 TX1318 washed windows at their Charter CA0316 MN2931 T N0516 Organization. Girls from all Units, Pathfinders to Patriots, enjoyed doing this project so CA0415 MO1412 T N0911 much, the Troop will likely begin conducting CA1271 MO1345 T N2011 this project several times a year for their CA1615 MO2005 Trailblazers Charter Organization. CA1776 NC0103 T X0129 CA2911 NM0323 T X0191 OH2262 donated wonderful new goodies for the animals! Along with several kitty condos, CA7416 NM2010 T X0226 the girls also brought in dog bandanas, CO0002 NY3130 T X0240 catnip toys, cat blankets, dog toys and CO3125 OH3210 T X0771 treats, collars, leashes and even some FL1107 OH0025 T X1007 timothy hay tubes for the pocket pets! The FL0001 OH0128 T X1202 kitties are enjoying the new condos and the catnip toys already! FL0912 OH0316 T X1221 FL1107 OH0702 T X1230 KY2521 served lunch at the Lord’s Kitchen. In addition, some girls spent the morning FL2101 OH0998 T X1318 sorting bracelets for Beading to Beat Autism; FL4678 OH1027 T X2010 and some girls (and parents) took time out FL7145 OH1206 T X2012 of their afternoon to spread mulch around GA0098 OH1412 T X2134 the Highlands Latin School playground. GA0593 OH2004 T X2928 TX0226 prepared baked goods during the IL1230 OH3017 T X6122 week, gathered on Saturday to package IN0410 OH3124 VA0226 them and make cards, and delivered them KY0522 OH3130 VA1212 to

KY2917 OH5657 VA1975 LA0035 OH8118 VA2345 LA0401 OK1776 VA0711 LA0412 OK1991 WA0722 MD1208 OR1603 WV0252 MD0413 OR1945 WV1816 MI0138 PA0304 WY0220 MI0226 PA2551 MI0408 PA0267 4 Free to Serve at National Day of Service To Celebrate AHG’s Birthday and the National Day of Service, several American Heritage Girls’ Troops, families and individuals utilized the American Heritage Girls are Frieda B resources! Free to Be a Blessing Troop CA0029 in Palms, CA: Our girls read the Frieda B. book, and AHG is thrilled to partner with children’s discussed our dreams, talents, author Renata Bowers to teach girls to gifts, and loves. We talked about discover their one-of-a-kind important serving in our community. Then the story that God has created for them, girls made brownies and packaged and use it to be a blessing to others. Penniless Princess DVD, them up and took them to the 3 fire The new “Free to Be a Blessing” Patch Program & Event Kit stations in our community. program is based on Bower’s adorable American Heritage Girls has once book, Frieda B. Herself, about a little again partnered with VeggieTales in Troop PA0304 in Hershey, PA: girl with a BIG imagination. The girls made pillowcases for the promoting their newest DVD, The Penniless Princess: God’s Little Girl. Ronald McDonald house. They The Free to B. a Blessing (FBAB) give these pillowcases to the very ill program guides AHG Troops, families VeggieTales’ The Penniless Princess youngsters coming to the Hershey and individuals of all ages through the DVD teaches girls that God is always Medical Center for treatments for process of: with you – no matter what! It reminds their life threatening illnesses. They • Believing and exploring the story girls that true worth is not about what used the Frieda B format to introduce God wrote for each of us (Jeremiah you have, but what is in your heart. service and used their skills to help 29:11) Whatever is true, honorable, pure others and then worked together to • Dreaming Big about our story and and lovely... practice these things.” – make pillowcases as a blessing to purpose (Ephesians 3:20) Philippians 4:8. Visit www.ahgonline. others. • Doing for others...using our unique org/veggietales to view the official IN3712 served at an outreach gifts and passions to directly be a trailer for The Penniless Princess. center for low income families with blessing, a light, to the world around meals, medicine, prayer and daily us (Matthew 5:16) Penniless Princess Party necessities. The girls also learned To go along with this fun-filled show, crocheting while working on sleeping To aid Troops in bringing this important VeggieTales has worked with AHG mats for the homeless. message to their girls, Frieda B. and to create a guide on planning a AHG have worked together to develop Troop Princess Party! A Princess a number of resources. You’ll find Party featuring the NEW Penniless many Free to B. a Blessing resources Princess DVD is a great way to share to help you carry out everything from an the faith, service and fun that is AHG individual activity to a full Troop event with the girls in your community. and service project at: www.ahgonline.org/fbab. You can find a copy of the Princess Party Event Guide at www.ahgonline. Free to B. a Blessing patches are org/veggietales or by visiting the available at FriedaB.com/AHG and Leader portal of the AHG Website. In store.ahgonline.org. To earn a patch, addition to offering this free resource, a girl must: read/discuss Frieda B. Troops planning a Princess Party Herself; complete one or more of the can also order special event patches program activities; and carry-out a from VeggieTales.com. service event related to her gifts and passions. FBAB activities also can assist in earning a Daughter of the King badge.

5 Stay in touch! Remember, when girls sign up for the Troop Tales Pen Pal program they commit to writing at least once Outdoors Would you walk down a red a month for the calendar year. carpet? How about if that carpet was on the produce Registration for the American Heritage Girls’ National aisle? What about walking Pen Pal program occurs each fall and provides a one that goes down a hill to a fire ring so you could great way for girls to connect with other girls from visit your favorite vegetables? Sounds special, you other parts of the country. Girls can exchange ideas, say? Let’s ramp it up a little. You are not only walking dreams, their faith and pictures. If you missed the red carpet and being treated like a celebrity but you registration this year, don’t worry - your daughter are among the very first in the whole world to see these will have the opportunity to participate next fall. Veggies in their newest movie! Calls for extra popcorn, Questions about the National Pen Pal Program can doesn’t it? be sent to penpal@ AHG’s great partnership with Veggie Tales created this ahgonline.org. awesome event. Camp Wannacombac, AHG Southeast Please encourage girls Regional Camp, was among several AHG camps that to write. Waiting on a were offered the opportunity to premier the newest letter that never comes Veggie Tales film, “The Penniless Princess.” is disheartening and so The excitement built all week as Leaders explained many friendships are what a premier is. “You mean we’re the first to see it?” waiting to start! was heard frequently. The night of the event, Leaders dressed up and strutted the red carpet along with 115 girls. The paparazzi flashed and the fans screamed. The reviews raved: “I love this story. I’m so glad Veggie Tales made it Ambassador to Boy Scout Council (ABC) into a movie.” – Missy Inaugural Class “That was so much fun. Popcorn and a movie Congratulations to the following AHG volunteers who outside with no mosquitoes. I just wish Bob and have been selected to serve as the Ambassador to Larry could’ve been here.” – Sarah Boy Scout Council (ABC) in their area. The ABC is “How special can we be?! Wow, our own premier. the liaison between the AHG Troops in their area Thank you, Veggie Tales for allowing our sneak and their local BSA Council. This position includes preview and making still another quality film.” – developing and fostering a relationship with the Debbie local BSA Council professional staff and volunteers, “Can we do it again next year?” – Ava communicating to local Troops about trainings, Do you feel like you missed out? Don’t worry; you can have your own “red carpet down the produce aisle” event. facilities use, mutual service activities and raising Visit www.ahgonline.org/veggietales for resources that the profile and impact of AHG within the BSA council will make for a star-studded event. Consider a Dad- area. Daughter event. Can’t you see Dad dress in formal wear Larry Carroll, Jr.: North Carolina, Occoneeche Council or maybe as his favorite vegetable? Dennis Clark: Connecticut, Connecticut Rivers Council After your visit to the WWW, U + UR AHG BFFs B ROFL! Jacqui Coleman: Florida, North Florida Council C U L8R, T8R!! Jeffrey Davis: Ohio, Tecumseh Council Luanne Dietz: Ohio, Dan Beard Council Maria Esquela: Maryland, Baltimore Council Lauren Huelsman: Arizona, Catalina Council National Pen Pal Program Carmen Maker: Louisiana, Norwela Council If your daughter registered for the 2013 National Pen Pal Thomas McFadden: Florida, Central Florida Council Program, she will be receiving her match information via email at Sonja Myers: Virginia, Heart of Virginia Council the beginning of January. Patches will be sent to Troop Leaders Dawn Norris: West Virginia, Buckskin Council for distribution. Troop Coordinators will also receive a list of Lynn Sanders: Texas, Longhorn Council participants (in their Troop) and their pen pal’s address so you Todd Skiles: Virginia, National Capital Council have a local contact for misplaced addresses! Annie Slagboom: California, Ventura County Council Beth Uchaker: Arizona, Grand Canyon Council Girls are encouraged to get that first letter off quickly and introduce themselves. Include a picture and all the neat stuff To learn more about this position, visit she is interested in. www.ahgonline.org/areas 6 Outdoors AHG Troops across the country to U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance introduce them to the enjoyment of the Foundation’s (USSAF) outdoors and the connection between American sportsmen and women and Trailblazer Adventure conservation. Program USSAF will be working with AHG to The USSAF Trailblazer Adventure develop outdoor programs (including Program introduces youth and their a Shooting Sports Badge slated for families to outdoor activities such 2015 release) and create leadership as shooting, fishing, hunting, and opportunities for girls. USSAF will trapping. More than 1.3 million youth also teach outdoor training workshops and their families have participated at AHG’s 2012 National Leadership in a Trailblazer program since its Conference. inception in 2001. The U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance USSAF Trailblazer Events Foundation’s (USSAF) Trailblazer The Trailblazer Adventure Program is Adventure Program and the an exciting one-day program that serves American Heritage Girls (AHG) as an all-around introduction to the thrill your facility, Trailblazer Adventure signed a Memorandum of of outdoor sports and the importance Day activities may include: fishing, Understanding on May 16, 2012. of conservation. Usually hosted at target shooting, boating orientation, Under this new agreement, all a Boy Scout camp or similar facility, archery, wildlife identification, and current and potential members Trailblazer Adventure Day features a many more exciting outdoor related of AHG nationwide will have an variety of activities, demonstrations, activities! The Trailblazer Adventure opportunity to experience the and orientation sessions designed to Program does not charge a fee excitement of outdoor adventures show kids and their families what the for the services provided. Finally, including shooting sports, archery, outdoor lifestyle is all about. All activities the Trailblazer Adventure Program fishing, and a host of other hands- are conducted under the supervision supplies most of the needed on outdoor related activities. of experienced Trail Guides, with the equipment to run an event and utmost emphasis on safety. can even assist in securing other The USSAF Trailblazer Adventure equipment resources if needed. Program staff will be working with Depending on resources available at How will the Trailblazer Program benefit AHG Troops? How do I plan a Trailblazer The Trailblazer Adventure Program Adventure Day? is an exciting opportunity for all Do you have an upcoming summer Troops, as well as a great recruitment camp? Are you having an AHG event with tool. Trailblazer gives today’s youth a large number of attendees? Are you an opportunity they might otherwise looking for a new twist for a recruitment miss: the chance to experience the event? If you answered “yes” to any of wonders of nature firsthand, with this questions please contact the U.S. expert guidance from experienced Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation to find sportsmen. With unique activities out more about the Trailblazer Adventure such as archery, target shooting, Program and how we can work with you and fishing and more, trailblazer to bring the excitement of the outdoor is often a first time experience for lifestyle to your next American Heritage many young girls and boys who do Girl event. If you would like to hold a not have the resources to participate Trailblazer Adventure Day, contact the in such activities. U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation Trailblazer is also a proud partner at (614) 888-4868 or trailblazer@ with the Boy Scouts of America, ussportsmen.org. Visit our website at and works closely with them for www.trailblazeradventure.org. most Trailblazer events. American 7 Heritage Girl Troops can use this as an opportunity definitely tap into this resource often.” to hold joint Trailblazer events with both AHG and BSA, to introduce young men and women to the great For more information on the U.S. Sportsman’s Alliance outdoors at the same time. Foundation and the Trailblazer Program, visit: http://trailblazeradventure.org/. Your Troop can also benefit from holding a Trailblazer Adventure Day because it will allow for networking opportunity with some of the potential outside organizations and groups for future badge work events and more!

USSAF Story – Troop Tales May 16, 2012 saw another landmark day in the history of American Heritage Girls. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between AHG and U.S. Sportsman’s Alliance Foundation. This wonderful partnership opens fantastic opportunities for AHG Troops to explore the outdoors – an important aspect of any girls’ experience in AHG. USSAF plays a key role in protecting and advancing American Heritage Girls complete historical America’s heritage of hunting, fishing and trapping, and the USSAF’s Trailblazer Adventure Program is week at BSA Philmont the largest youth outdoor sports introduction program Scout Ranch in America. USSAF will work in partnership with While young American Heritage Girls (AHG) were horseback national, regional, and local AHG areas and troops riding, shooting, and backcountry trekking at the Boy Scouts to conduct Trailblazer Adventure Programs for AHG’s of America (BSA) Philmont Scout Ranch near Cimarron, New members, take part in outdoor activities, and promote Mexico, their parents and Leaders participated in a historic AHG advancement opportunities. Along with other week of leadership training at the BSA Philmont Training initiatives, USSAF will work with AHG to incorporate Center. its Target Challenge and other programs into the AHG For the first time in BSA- Philmont history, 125 AHG participants Regional Camp program. and family members from across the nation attended workshops One of the first Regional Camps to embrace this and participated in family programming. Workshop attendees new relationship has been Camp Wannacombac, from the BSA, AHG and other faith-based organizations were AHG’s Southeast Regional Camp. Derrek Shively, equipped to grow AHG and BSA Troops in their churches and of USSAF, worked directly with the camp’s Program communities while attending the week long AHG class. Director to secure archery equipment for the Archery In 2009, BSA presented AHG with a Memorandum of Mutual badge workshop. Support (MMS). AHG is the only all-girl scouting organization “It was nice to have the ‘real’ bows to shoot,” said one partnered with the BSA. camper, “And then the state park let us use the 3D Jay, a father, whose sons are BSA members said, “For years targets, too. We learned so much.” my sons had a place to learn leadership in an organization With a lake full of fish in the middle of the camp, it where their faith is honored and celebrated. And I was seeking was a natural fit to offer a Fishing badge workshop. this same thing for my daughters. I found it in the American USSAF graciously provided not only rods and reels Heritage Girls.” Jay is now an AHG member and Leader. but an instructor as well. According to the girls, “Our “The Philmont experience and the relationship with AHG and fishing guy was the best. He made the classroom- the Boy Scouts of America, allows a true family approach to type stuff fun and gave us lots of time to actually fish! Scouting. Now moms, dads, sisters and brothers can grow Mr. Jeff was great.” emotionally, personally, spiritually and physically through a “The communication with USSAF was prompt and scouting experience that encourages family involvement,” says helpful. Without their assistance, we would not have Patti Garibay, Executive Director and Founder of the American been able to offer these workshops,” commented Heritage Girls. Camp Wannacombac’s Program Director. “As a AHG has already been invited back to BSA Philmont in 2013 to result, 10 girls earned their Fishing badge and over 40 continue to equip and encourage the growth of BSA and AHG earned Archery. USSAF followed up with us to assure Troops in the faith-based community. 8that we were satisfied with the arrangement. We will Regional Camp Report St. Louis Camp was “More Precious than Gold!” filled with Olympic themes The second annual St. Louis Regional Camp was hosted in partnership with the Greater St. Louis Area Boy Scout Council at Beaumont Scout Ranch. Five American Heritage Girls Troops attended from as far away as Leavenworth, Kansas and Batavia, Illinois. Three St. Louis area Troops attended. The four-day, three-night resident camp was attended by nearly 60 AHG Explorers, Pioneers, Patriots and adult leaders who participated in archery, swimming, and outdoor skills activities. The infamous mud cave continues to be one of the camp favorites … The only place where girls try to get muddy! The final evening, camp was opened to nearly 25 Tenderhearts and their families who learned about hiking Explorers, Pioneers and Patriots participated in swimming, shooting, and outdoor skills before joining a party, archery, crafts, canoeing, sailing, fishing, games, fires, skits, songs and campfire songs, skits, and smores. A much more. For those Troops with a real sense of adventure, there was worship service was held in the outdoor the hike to Viewing Rock, with an elevation over 2400 feet with spectacular chapel. Girls from every denomination lifted views of Lake Merriweather. They participated in the exact same program their voices in worship, prayer and praise. provided to their brothers and friends who attended the Boy Scout Camps The girls enjoyed devotions and activities in the 5 weeks before them. These girls amazed the Camp Staff with their surrounded by the Olympics themes “More ability to listen and shoot! (We had a lot of Annie Oakley’s out there!) Precious than Gold.” By the end of the week, But perhaps the highest praise came from Monsignor Brady, the camp every girl earned a “gold medal” (made out chaplain, who noted to the National Capital Area Council’s Executive Board of spray-painted paper plates and ribbons) weeks later that only one group of campers achieved 100% participation for awards like the gold medal “giggler” in organized worship during the week - the American Heritage Girls. Each “happy camper” and “most muddy.” Faith, Troop was provided with a package of ashes from the First AHG Campfire Service and Fun was had by all! in keeping with BSA tradition of keeping a “genealogy” of campfires. AHG Rose Hayes, returns to Goshen in 2013 with TWO camps, one for Explorers and one AHG Regional Camp Director for Pioneers/Patriots. A third camp for Tenderhearts will also be added at the Cub Adventure Camp at Camp T. Brady Saunders. A special thanks to the BSA National Capital Area Council in the Washington D.C. area, and Goshen Scout Reservation Camp Heart of Virginia Council in Richmond, VA. experience makes a big splash for AHG Todd Skiles, With over 10,000 acres of pristine mountain Ambassador, National Capital Area Council, Boy Scouts of America forests surrounding the scenic Lake Merriweather, Goshen has been providing a classic American summer camp experience “We are Sisters!” proclaimed at Colorado Day Camp since 1967. The dining halls, built from CO0002 We had such a fun and exciting day camp experience this hewn pine logs taken from the forests during summer! For the first time in Colorado, the three Troops in Colorado construction, are lined with rustic plaques Springs worked together for months to plan and carry out a regional day made by the thousands of units who have camp. With our theme “We are Sisters,” the girls were introduced to other made these camps their home for one week American Heritage Girls in town and had fun playing games, singing a year, leaving a remarkable visual legacy songs, and completing badge work including making homemade paper, for those who follow them. Camp staff often jewelry and flower presses. As we closed our week, everyone said that we point out their own names on these plaques should definitely do this again. to the new generation of campers, tying the Lisa Roach, present to the past, and inviting campers to Troop Coordinator become part of the legacy. This year, American Heritage Girls was added to that legacy. For one week, 9 are thankful to FLSR for continuing to partner with us. In 2011, our camp had 30 participants. And in 2012, we grew to 107 participants with a complete takeover of Camp Pollock. Next year’s camp is already scheduled and we have room for more than 300. We hope you join us. For more information, visit www. ahgtroop480.org/. Kip Haggerty, AHG Camp Director

ALASKA REGIONAL CAMP: Daughters of the King! We are surprised every year by God’s blessing in each of our camps. This year was no exception, and this time the “Surprised by Joy” moments Horse Camp revolved around the chosen camp The air was filled with excitement as one by one the girls arrived at the first theme: Daughter of the King. ever American Heritage Girl Horse Camp. The girls ranged from Explorers to Patriots. Some of them had never even ridden before, while other girls had been Girls from Troops in South-Central riding for years. Despite the range in age and experience, everyone shared one Alaska gathered and experienced thing in common: they all loved horses. It didn’t take long for the girls to make everything you might expect from new friends. After the morning flag ceremony, all the Explorers would hurry off summer camp: Canoeing, Hiking, to the barn. In the afternoon the Pioneers and Patriots would go to the barn. Rock Wall Climbing at our local BSA This way, everyone could earn their level specific badge requirements. The girls campground. But what made this learned the basics of horse riding, how to steer a horse, how to make it go, and camp different was the focus on the how to make it stop. By the end of the week many of the girls had learned how to Daughter of the King badge, and the trot, canter, and even jump! They also learned the essentials to horse care, how growing relationships and lasting to treat an injury, what the farrier does, how to cool down a horse, and what to impact that brought for our girls. feed a horse. They learned how to draw horses, and how to identify the different Troop AK0489 (Wasilla) sponsored parts of a horse as well as the different horse breeds and colors. Everyone the camp, and provided Study loved to gaze into the stalls and pet the horses, especially the foal. Guides, customized for each AHG level. These guides and discussion But horses weren’t the only part of camp; archery, swimming, rifles, outdoor questions provided consistency skills, emergency preparedness, and other badges and activities made up a between campsites, and ensured large part of the time. Everyone enjoyed learning new skills and practicing old that each adult leader was well- ones. They all wanted to return to Horse Camp for another summer filled with equipped. Several parents became friends, horses, and fun! committed leaders after watching Leanna Russell, the spiritual development that took Techumseh Council place and the relationships that formed between the girls. Southern California Regional Summer Camp Greg Schmidt This summer, over one hundred girls and Leaders converged on Forest Lawn AK2008 Scout Reservation (FLSR) near Lake Arrowhead for our second Southern California Regional Summer Camp. The camp welcomed us enthusiastically Camp R.E.A.L. “Ready, Engaged, and put on a full and adventurous program for the girls. Beginning each day with Authentic, and Loving” a rousing assembly, we climbed the rock wall, rode horses, swam, canoed, shot Camp R.E.A.L. (Ready,Engaged, arrows and guns, took pictures, decorated leather, and explored nature until we Authentic, and Loving) was the dropped into our cabin beds at night. One night, the older girls rode on horseback Kansas City area’s first regional to the horse camp and slept under the stars. The younger girls studied the stars AHG camp. Four area troops at the astronomy overnighter. We also took a group of Patriots on a 22-hour participated with approximately 50 overnight Loggers jamboree outpost which included chopping, sawing, High girls and 30 moms in attendance. COPE, birling on an artificial log, and learning about firefighting. As the week We spent three days learning about progressed, the girls developed new friendships, enjoyed inviting their favorite true beauty and reflecting on how to councilors10 to eat meals at their tables, and mastered the camp chants. We apply 1 Peter 3:4 to our lives. Girls had a blast with horseback riding, archery, swimming and more. Each level also worked on various badges including Fire Safety & Building and Physical Fitness. Pioneer and Patriot girls were able to gain leadership experience as they taught the younger girls badge requirements and led games, devotionals, and songs. The highlight of camp came on Sunday morning as we gathered for our worship time before parting ways. Listening to 80 sweet voices sing praises to God and celebrate being together was very moving. Planning camp was a big job, but everyone Journey of a Lifetime agreed that it was well worth it. The friendships The video, just over two minutes in length, begins with the life of a made and the lessons learned that weekend were little girl with big dreams. A literal stage suddenly expands to the girl so incredibly valuable. We can’t wait for Camp reading her favorite book called “You can learn to fly.” The narrator R.E.A.L. 2013! asks if she has heard of American Heritage Girls. An inquisitive Tonia Collins, “no” begins a journey of a lifetime unveiling the AHG program. Coordinator KS1209 According to the video, AHG will help girls follow Christ, have lots of adventures, and discover their God-given dreams and purpose. The girl is swept onto a stage to experience several activities American Heritage Girls LAUNCH including theater, cake-decorating, canoeing and even sign language. New Brand Animated Video Connects Girls to The action quickly places the girl into a paper airplane thus living Faith. Service. Fun. out her deepest desire to be a pilot, missionary and translator. In the end, the enthusiastic young girl is ready to join AHG. The What do karaoke, canoeing and cupcakes have video, part of the AHG Brand, is a copyright of American Heritage in common? According to a 2-D animated video Girls, Inc. and must be used in its entirety. from the American Heritage Girls (AHG), it’s where faith, service and fun come together! AHG is grateful to have worked with Luke Milton of Vision House Studio, who produced the video. Vision House Studio is a full AHG encourages members to share this video service video production and web design company and specializes with families who are seeking a Christ-centered in production for church and parachurch organizations. scouting experience for their daughters. Church services, Scout Sunday, Information Meetings, New AHG Brand conferences, back-to-school nights and In addition to the video, AHG has launched new marketing materials community events are all wonderful venues. to reflect a revised Brand. These marketing and communication tools will equip and encourage families and Christian organizations • LAUNCH from YouTube: to grow existing Troops and start new Troops. www.youtube.com/ahgchannel • LAUNCH from Vimeo: Find the new Brand at the AHG website on the “Marketing AHG” https://vimeo.com/50996101 page available via www.ahgonline.org/news. • LAUNCH from the AHG website: And purchase the new marketing materials in the AHG merchandise www.ahgonline.org Attic store at http://store.ahgonline.org/

Job Opportunities at AHG Is God Calling You to Ministry Work? AHG is growing! AHG needs Christ-driven employees who are eager to share their talents and skills in a high energy, faith-filled work environment. Most of the positions are located at the AHG National Headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio, but some remote positions are also available. For a list of positions and job descriptions, visit www.ahgonline.org/workforahg. AHG invites you to answer God’s calling and to share your career skills by building women of integrity through service to God, family, community and country.

11 Girl Leadership better relationships with girls. Word of God. How CA2911 is growing Girl One opportunity I had was to Leadership opportunities serve when our Troop did rotating AHG Troop CA2911 belongs to the girls. stations, and we led younger NAYLE: The Ultimate It is their Troop. AHG is their opportunity AHG girls in First Aid, Knots, Fire to practice success and failure in a grace- Building, Cooking. I also help Leadership Experience filled environment. AHG Upon arriving at Philmont Scout is a “grace place” to Ranch in the beautiful Sangre de grow into strong young AHG is a “grace place” to grow into Cristo Mountains of New Mexico this women of faith and grow past August, I expected what I’ve in the Fruit of the Spirit strong young women of faith and grow experienced so many times before: (Ephesians 5:22). The girls in the Fruit of the Spirit.” a simple summer camp. When I left are responsible for running a week later however, I wouldn’t the bi-monthly meetings, But the fruit of the Spirit is love, describe my time at the ranch as hosting the girls’ night, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, simple. In fact, it would be hard for Court of Honor, and much faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. me to appropriately articulate my more. As adult Leaders, time at NAYLE at all. The program, we are there to support Ephesians 5:22 an acronym for National Advanced them as they overcome Youth Leadership Experience is a their weaknesses through BSA training camp. The experience Christ and soar to new manifestation however, fostered guide the younger girls through heights with their new found strengths. personal growth on levels that I’ve the Joining Award requirements. Our support consists of: guiding them in never before been privileged to My favorite part of being a leader their leadership roles, holding half-day encounter. workshops, leadership training meetings, is getting to know the girls better consistent communication, providing and helping them to get to know During NAYLE, I was exposed to resources, prayer, and being examples as Jesus more. I have grown in not only emotional and physical servant leaders. Our hope is for American leadership because all this time challenges, but also (and perhaps Heritage Girls of CA 2911 to be equipped, by I thought being a leader was all most importantly) to a specific life- the grace of our Lord, to know what it means about having fun. It is, but it is long challenge: servant leadership. to lead by serving and to yearn to hear: also about knowing how to guide This goal was encouraged through “Well done, good and faithful servant!...” ~ our younger AHG sisters with various crew-centered objectives. Matthew 25:21. healthy boundaries and pointing Throughout the course of the them in the right direction. week, my Crew, (who were initially complete strangers from around the Hi, my name is Elizabeth and I country), became like family. We am the Jr. Troop Shepherdess. hiked, completed a COPE course, Sometimes I will prepare cooked in the rain, performed devotions for my Troop and read skits, climbed the legendary Tooth it to the girls. It makes me a little of Time, hung bear bags, sang nervous but that is one way AHG together, told stories, completed a has made me grow. Another way geo-caching activity, learned and AHG helps me grow is by being administered wilderness first aid, a role model and a friend to our argued, encouraged, backpacked, younger AHG sisters. Yes, it is completed chores, performed hard when I don’t get to play all search and rescue, and ran away Pioneers talk about leadership the games, because I am leading from mini-bears, to name a few. opportunities them, but the girls’ happiness, Combined, these experiences Hi, I’m Desirae. I am the Troop Leader in plus me knowing that I did the empowered participants to become Training. Our Troop has about 40 girls and right thing pays off. My goal as a the servant leaders that so many is located in Oxnard, CA. I enjoy leading Patrol Leader is to be a confident scouts and scout leaders have been because it gives me a different perspective role model and leader, and to before us. It is a quality experience on our Troop. Leading helps me cultivate teach the girls in my Troop the 12 like NAYLE that develops today’s scouts into tomorrow’s exceptional leaders. I am both blessed and honored to consider myself a graduate. – Annalisa Wurm, 2012 Session 6 Participant and AHG Stars and Stripes recipient 2010 Anna and Ali are S&S recipients 2010, 2011 respectively and Angie is in her last year of AHG and is earning her S&S this year. They are also part of an all-girl Venturing Crew 3730, chartered First Church of the Nazarene, Pasadena, CA. Start a joint-Venture Crew today so your girls can participate in the fabulous NAYLE program!

Stars & Stripes Spotlight Final Project Report, I had taken the time to learn how to make We played jump rope with either Abigail Lindquist the pillowcases, teach the girls how to hoses or jump ropes. We played The project at the Bolivian Youth make the pillow cases and spent a whole basketball with them and played Ministries Orphanage started when day dedicated to making the pillow cases “pelota quemada” which is basically I went on a trip to go to Bolivia. until we were done. a form of dodge ball and sharks and This trip had 19 college students, minnows. While we were painting and three leaders. One of the On the first day, July 2nd we played all the girls nails, there were some girls leaders gave me permission and sorts of ice breakers such as passing that actually painted the nails of the opportunity to plan everything at a volleyball back and forth and saying Keane and Morgan (two of the boys the orphanage, because I was the each other’s names. We played soccer, on our trip). We played games that only contact while we were there. I I helped the girls cook lunch and we were similar to London Bridges and planned a huge handful of games painted the girl’s nails. I brought a bunch also like a mixture of tag. and activities for the 30 girls at the of children’s books to the girls and the orphanage. group was reading them to the girls. July 3rd, we painted the outside wall

A week and a half before I left to go The Stars and Stripes Award is meant to recognize girls who to Bolivia, my friends and a small epitomize the AHG Oath and Creed. It is AHG‟s highest honor group of girls from our AHG Troop and similar to BSA‟s Eagle Scout. Earning this prestigious made 35 uniquely made pillowcases. award means that the candidate has worked diligently and i c e r a I spent approx. 20 hours preparing, has fulfilled all six of AHG‟s program emphases by meeting m n

A organizing, and implementing all my all of the award requirements. In essence, this award H ideas onto paper and meeting with recognizes that she has laid the foundation for becoming a e

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A candidate must complete a number of requirements to G cut out all the fabric in advance and achieve this honor, including: made the first pillowcase. Before - Completing the Dolley Madison Level Award the trip, some girls from my troop - Earning a total of 16 Badges and some of my friends made a - Earning the Religious Recognition associated with their handful of pillowcases for each girl. denomination I had approx. 35 hours of volunteer’s - Having held a leadership position in their Troop for a minimum hours. of six months - Planning, developing, and providing leadership to others in a The time spent at the orphanage 100+ hour service project was July 2nd-July 5th. During these - Writing a Life Ambition/ Spiritual Walk Essay and mini-resume four days, I had approx. 250 hours - Receiving at least 3 Letters of Reference of only volunteer’s hours. - Passing a Board of Review 13 of the orphanage because there that I would just keep praying for was a lot of graffiti on the wall and them and that I love each of them we needed to clean it up and make so much. I got a stack of letters it look nice. that the girls had made for me and other college students on the group. After we painted the outside wall, we The letters were very touching and went inside and played more jump absolutely wonderful. Many, if not rope and volleyball with the girls. I all of us girls were in tears when talked to the lady in charge about we had to leave. That’s always the some of the girl’s stories and they hardest thing for me to do; say good were really sad, but it was important bye. for me to hear their stories. One of the minor changes that we July 4th was a day at the orphanage had was having two groups going where we celebrated the 4th of each day. Originally I had planned July because the people that run to have everyone come every day the orphanage are from the U.S. but then I shortly realized that some We stayed for lunch, which was people could handle so much of hotdogs and watermelon. We had the girls. We had four to six people a watermelon seed spitting contest. come in the morning around 9 a.m. We also painted their nails, read and then the rest of the group came the girls books books and played later in the afternoon. One of the a game of “pelota quemada” which days, I got sick so I had to let other was the game similar to dodge people take my place so it was nice ball. We played soccer and had to have the project description with the teams split up by Bolivians and all the games and it made my job North Americans; the Bolivians won. easier because I had everything We had potato sack races, played already planned out ahead of time. volleyball, and I gave out prizes to each of the winning groups. This I demonstrated leadership by was the second to last day that we taking the groups of people to the would be with the girls. orphanage, planning the games and keeping the girls occupied and doing The last day, we knew that we would jobs that the house mom gave us to only be there for a few hours. This do. I also took leadership by giving was our last day being with the girls. the people in my groups game ideas I gave out the pillow cases on this and giving them the enthusiasm to day because we had the time and all complete each thing for the girls and the girls were there that day. It was to treat each girl with great care and awesome and was really special to love. see each girl get a pillowcase that fit their personality. There was so If I would have done anything much excitement going on when differently, I would have had more each girl got a pillowcase that they paint brushes for painting the walls knew was handmade specifically for of the outside of the orphanage. I them. would have also brought down more books if I had more time to collect July 5th was the last day at the more books. The girls absolutely orphanage. The weather was loved the books and we read to really bad so we stayed inside. I them constantly. I would have spent asked almost every girl if they had more time with the girls. accepted Jesus into their heart and just asked them questions about There weren’t any problems; it was why they believe in God and about a “go with the flow” basis each day. their favorite Bible verses. Many I have learned that I am a leader of the girls said they had accepted and that I can be very flexible Jesus into their hearts and that was when it comes to needing to switch very exciting for me to hear, some something unexpectedly and being 14 said no, which lead me to tell them okay under pressure. My project benefitted thirty beautiful at Hebron House with their moms. The Seven more donated bikes came girls at an orphanage in Bolivia and day set aside for project event prep was along as well. Even more bikes helped better the kingdom of God on filled with cooking a lasagna dinner and were repaired. Whew! When all was earth. My project involved college preparing gift baskets. The day of the said and done, Cassie had bought 5 students putting their time, energy, event involved practicing with the mime new bikes, collected 51, repaired 32 and resources for serving others. team, arranging roses for each woman (six of these were small and went to We were all so blessed to be able to to be present, setting up and covering it another ministry) and pulled enough serve these girls and be blessed to all with prayer. parts to keep the Home supplied for be a part of their lives. quite a while on replacement goods. Kindle shared a devotional with the She also provided a big meal for group about God’s love for them. Then the kids and volunteers with time to Stars and Stripes her mime team presented three songs interact. reinforcing the devotional. Conversation Recipients flowed and the children had instant Cassie sums up the excitement of During the Spring & Summer of playmates for the evening. There were the project, “When we were fixing 2012, a number of young ladies even left-over’s to leave at the Hebron the bikes, the kids were ecstatic! No worked diligently and now have House! sooner would we have a bike ready the honor of being called a Stars to be ridden, it would be claimed. & Stripes Recipient! This quarter’s Kindle shares that allowing more time for The smiles from the kids were recipients include: the project planning and fundraising is a probably one of the most rewarding must. And be ready for anything…even parts of my project. On my last snow. Using the Project Description as workday, I had a group of three kids a guide for each step saved the day: “It come up to me and say thank you. I really did help, because at one point I was almost cried because I was thinking, preoccupied with some volunteers, and ‘How could one person like me have several other volunteers wanted to know such an impact on another person’s what happed next, so they looked at my life?’ I can never know exactly how description and found exactly what to do. I impacted these kids’ lives but I Descriptions are awesome!” We agree, would hope it is life long.” Kindle, the more detail you provide in a Cassie, you presented a wonderful Project Description, the smoother your example of touching lives with a Project Implementation will be. simple gift. Well done, GA2911 Stars and Stripes Award recipient! Kindle Gossage Congratulations, Kindle, on turning “Even though they have their your heart for sharing God’s love into a Tessa Gartin physical needs met, they still need memorable project for a group of people The reason to most importantly remember God’s who needed something extra special. for choosing love.” This need is what propelled a particular Kindle Gossage, of VA0711, into the Cassie Hughes project for lives of homeless families at Good Cassie removed her training wheels and the Stars Shepherd Alliance’s Hebron House. put the pedal to and Stripes Why not use a special day reserved the metal for her Award varies for expressions of love to share Stars and Stripes with each God’s love? Valentine’s Day can be Project! Repairing young lady. very lonely for a mistreated woman old bikes for the For Tessa and her family, so Kindle decided to kids at Murphy- Gartin of KY3130 it was a matter of turn the day around for the families Harpst Children’s expanding on the teamwork lessons at Hebron House. Home was the and values she has gleaned from A little healthy competition on initial goal but being a part of American Heritage change collection between Kindle’s God had a bigger Girls. In her words, “…the whole AHG Troop and the local Cub picture. Donation letters raised enough goal of a low ropes course is to Scouts, made for most of the funds to repair 19 bikes and 12 used teach teamwork and problem budget that was needed. Another helmets. Cassie looked beyond that solving. I chose Team Expansion collaborative effort, a bake sale, accomplishment and found more work because teamwork is a part of their contributed the remaining monetary was needed. core values and I feel like teamwork needs. Toys, jewelry, art supplies A fund-raiser breakfast at her church was and leadership are the two most and candy were collected to make very successful, providing enough funds important things I learned from being gift baskets for the children staying for 5 new bikes and 12 new helmets! 15 a member of AHG…The goal of my Esther and her team documented her team constructed a new low project is to construct a low ropes the experience of six veterans in her ropes element called the Artesian course element that will be used area through video interviews and the Beams to encourage logic as well to help train missionaries, teaching guidelines of the Veteran’s History as teamwork and communication. them teamwork.” Project. “I realized that there was a Emma can also attest to the wealth of knowledge and experience importance of time management, “I So plans for a “Whale Watch” were right here where I live in the Colorado definitely got a chance to practice made. No, there’s not an ocean in Springs area…this project is important my time management both in Kentucky! This particular element is to me because of the time constraints planning and actually working on designed to “strengthen community with hundreds of VVII and Korean War this project because I have a very through challenge, cooperation and veterans dying every day……Knowing busy schedule…it took a lot of time communication. The entire group about the sacrifices of veterans and to complete this project, but all the must find balance on the giant active duty military members leads to hard work seesaw like platform.” a greater appreciation of the cost of was worth it.” freedom.” And having Tessa’s compassion and “can do” telephone attitude has lead her to become a Cristina Tuttle poles lying passionate fundraiser for several Cristina’s Project around ministries. Since fundraising does provided hats to children waiting to be not qualify as an Award project, she who have lost their hair used was a turned that passion into a project due to chemotherapy, blessing! that would benefit others who are burns, or brain surgery. equally passionate about God’s The hats were distributed calling in their life. The photos of across the country through Stiches Tessa’s team working on the Whale of Hope, a non-profit organization, Watch, proves that team building which makes and receives hats from skills are already in practice at the volunteers. “I realized that my love of site. Way to go, Tessa. You found crocheting could help children,” said the balance between hands-on and Cristina. The project consisted of paperwork in your Award process. gathering donated yarn and friends to create 133 hats. She also held teaching sessions to anyone who wanted to learn how to crochet.

Victoria Wilson The addition of fencing to property Elizabeth Pearson own by her church, not only provided Elizabeth chose to benefit her Victoria with a Project but improved the parish by providing it with a appearance and value of the property. permanent record of the valuables Her volunteers worked hard and the in the church. She documented all Project was completed in half the time items both in a video recording and she had planned. Victoria states, “I on a spreadsheet. This will be a Esther Tschappler noticed that I can manage a project more record for inventory and insurance The Veteran’s History Project, a effectively when I focus on efficiency purposes. She also photographed branch of the American Folklife and organization. Reallocating where many of these items and compiled Center in the Library of Congress, is people and tools went as needed them into an instructional booklet an organization which was created proved to be an effective leadership for the school children. Elizabeth in 2000 by the 106th Congress to technique.” Music, dance, acting, realized how hard a big project collect and preserve the memories leadership training, Venturing, AHG… could be. “Balancing my attention of American war veterans. Without now Victoria adds Fence Building to between all aspects of the project interviews of living veterans her list of activities outside of school! was a project unto itself. However, conducted by volunteers, the I was able to develop a rhythm Veteran’s History Project is unable Emma Shaw that allowed me to oversee, and to obtain the oral histories and first- Involved in the Project COPE at Camp still participate in, the project as a hand accounts needed by current Friedlander both as a participant and whole.” and future researchers, historians, an instructor opened an opportunity and family members of veterans. for Emma to meet a need. She and 16 Heather for those who the baton. Her Freeman come to the church event rallied Where do (Broadway UMC).” band directors, you find That’s what Rachel musicians, a Project intended and instructors and Idea? that’s what she music stores to Where accomplished. “spark interest” there is a Her project grew in as many kids need and in size as more as possible to the idea is plants and garden the beauty of welcomed. accoutrement music. This Heather were requested. project was as big as a marching found such a welcome when she Proper planning and patience lead to a band: 65 hours of planning for proposed making and donating 100 beautiful entry and nearly 300 total hours a three hour event, for 84 sixth blankets to the local hospital NICU. dedicated to the project. She says the graders and 100 volunteers giving The end result was 102 blankets, only thing she would do differently is keep over 700 hours of service. We’ll 8 coverlets for beds in NICU and up with the details better, “The process toot her horn for her…it was so $208 left from donations to be of writing [the Final Report] would have successful; she’s doing it again next given to the hospital. Heather says, gone smoother.” year and beginning the planning “The mothers who are receiving earlier! the blankets will know that there Sarah Faubion Sarah was is someone in the community who Cassie Kesslar cares about them and their child. disturbed by the Through her I hope the blankets help them feel statistics of teen Project, Cassie loved and let them know that they pregnancies, exemplified aren’t alone.” drug and alcohol Perseverance. abuse, violence Although her and bullying in Ali Wurm plan for a Sometimes the areas behind the her community Prayer Garden scenes at camps are neglected; so she planned a behind her no one see them except staff. retreat program church had However, a smooth running camp to reach out to girls. “My goal in this been cultivated by prayer, it had depends on the maintenance of its retreat, Girl in the Mirror, was and is to more than its share of obstacles. infrastructure. Ali sought to improve show Christ’s love and hope by: building The weather was unpredictable. the conditions of the shop area of self-confidence, modeling purity, teaching Work days were scheduled at Angeles Crest Christian Camp, skills, and empowering girls to make the end of the school year and a facility she has a love for. Old wise decisions….Right now it seems volunteers were scarce. Then fashioned elbow grease and bent like 1-2 girls at a time, but just like the a Project planner’s nightmare backs resulted in a proper drainage ripples in a pond; the ripples grow bigger happened … vandalism. Cassie system at the entrance of the shop. and spread out with each wave as God had to contend with destruction of “Through working on my Stars wills.” Her retreat offered fun, food and a naturally occurring trees and plants. and Stripes Project I have realized special encounter with twelve ladies who She also had to reassess the layout that the AHG mission statement, “had been there, done that, and found a and fight the urge to give up. “It ‘Building women of integrity through way out through Christ.” The Girl in the was a challenge,” says Cassie, service to God, Family, community Mirror has the goal of helping girls see “and even though there were ups and country’ is an integral part of the themselves as God sees them. Sarah and downs, encouragements and Stars and Stripes program and why has been asked to conduct more of these discouragements, during my time certain things are required to earn retreats; her Stars & Stripes Project working on this project, I realize that this award, i.e., integrity through all became a successful trial run! this is a part of life and sometimes work, accounting of hours, writing you just have to go with it and make up reports, etc.” Juli Mickle the best of it. Pray, trust God and Juli wants youth to jump on the band have faith.” wagon…literally. The local school district Rachel McCausland had dropped the program that introduced “I intended to create a lovely space A word of advice to one who’s sixth graders to band and interest in that would not only beautify my been there to those who are joining in seventh grade was waning church and city, but that would considering the Stars & Stripes rapidly. Juli took to the podium and grab create a welcoming atmosphere 17 Award: “My advice to other girls the Procedure by reviewing and approving the documentation required by the who would like to earn their Stars Procedure. The SSPA does not take the place of the local Mentor but acts on and Stripes is to plan and get started behalf of National for the approval processes. As the number of Candidates early. If weather is an issue like it increases over the years, it will become necessary to add other SSPA around was for me, which is why I actually the country. Questions about the Stars & Stripes Award process can be put my plans off a year, I advise them directed to [email protected] to either change your plans or push forward with it. I‘d advise them to American Heritage Girls Annual Family Stewardship Campaign (AFSC) keep good notes or get a volunteer AHG annually requests that its members and friends consider giving through to keep notes for them if that AHG’s Annual Family Stewardship Campaign (AFSC) to help reach more helps as it can get overwhelming. girls across the country! Prayerfully consider participating in this year’s I’d advise them to seek out other girls who have already earn the campaign which will run December 2012 - April 2013. Whether you award or even a leader who has pledge a monthly amount or a one time gift, your contribution will work had experience with a girl or girls toward the goal of making AHG available to every family who wishes to earning the award and have a sit participate. Every gift matters! down discussion so you can ask Families will receive mailers to allow for easy contribution in late questions and get answers before you begin. Try and be prepared for November, or they can give online through AHG’s secure donation page. whatever may happen, whether it’s One-time gifts, or recurring monthly contributions can be made via check, not enough money raised, or no credit card or e-check. participation, or vandalism, just try and be prepared. Also make sure Girls across the country are in need of programs that allow them to put you have troop participation before “legs on their faith” and become an outward sign of Christ’s love in their even starting. At last, make sure community. AHG is just that type of program, and you can help bring this you pick something you will enjoy. If ministry to girls in all 50 states! Encourage families in your Troop to join you pick something you won’t enjoy, you in giving to the AHG Ministry through this year’s AFSC! then all the problems will seem 100x “Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the Lord your God which he has given you.” Deuteronomy 16:17

www.ahgonline.org/donations/donate.aspx www.ahgonline.org/ISupportAHG worse than normal, and you will be American Heritage Girls Board Members more tempted to quit.” EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Mike Tillar, President – Cincinnati, OH Stars & Stripes Application Greg Schmidt, Vice President – Anchorage, AK for Candidacy Hal Shoemaker, Treasurer – Cincinnati, OH Applications for Candidacy into the Larry Cunningham, Chairman – Cincinnati, OH Stars & Stripes Award Procedure MEMBERS AT LARGE are increasing daily. The number of Vickie Burress – West Chester, OH young ladies achieving the Award Larry Carpenter – Franklin, TN is increasing as you can see from Nancy Dendramis – Cincinnati, OH the list above. To accommodate Pat Garibay – West Chester, OH the number of active Candidates, Janet Griffin – Grapevine, TX AHG has created a volunteer Charles Holmes – Colleyville, TX team of regional Stars & Stripes Dwight Stephenson – Cincinnati OH Project Advisors (SSPA). Once John Young – Loveland, OH a girl submits her Application for Candidacy and is deemed eligible EX OFFICIO to proceed, she will be assigned to Patti Garibay – West Chester, OH an SSPA who will guide her through 18 Melissa Grace age 10 of TN0516 Includes: headphone opening, duel mesh NEW Merchandise was the winner with this Wooden side pockets, padded shoulder straps The AHG Attic proudly introduces Creed Ornament design. $6.00 and a handy web handle. Take it with the following new items: you on the go. Great for campouts or for everyday! Newest member of the Creed Nalgene Water Bottle $20.00 Plush Collection: Pure Lamb Pretty in pink, this new water bottle This soft lamb is the seventh in the will help you keep hydrated. You collection and represents “Pure” in can track your water in-take or mix Tile Earrings Enjoy this pair of AHG logo earrings for the AHG Creed. Released in 2012, with pre-packaged flavor packets leaders and girls alike. These acrylic it is a must have. $12.00 and get just the right taste with the liquid measurement feature on back earrings with the AHG Logo send a “clear” message about your dedication to our AHG Wristbands which measures 400 ml. or 14 oz. mission and they’ll match all your AHG The new AHG wristbands make a When filled to the top, this light- apparel too! These earrings have a slight great gift for the girls and volunteers weight bottle actually holds 16 oz. of drop to dangle prettily from your ears and in your Troop. your favorite beverage. $10.00 are for pierced ears only. $8.00 Individual Wristbands: $1.00 6 Pack of Wristbands: $5.00 Ultimate Backpack The new Ultimate Backpack from Tile Ring Silver and fully adjustable, this tile ring AHG Wooden Creed Ornament AHG is Royal Blue and Black. has the AHG Logo embedded in a smooth The AHG Attic is now carrying the This heavyweight, slouchy, double acrylic tile. The new AHG tile ring will look winning ornament design from its compartment back pack has all the great on any girl’s finger and is sure to first Design an Ornament Contest. right features and styling to make it a winner with teens and adults. bring a smile. $8.00 Visit the AHG Attic at store.ahgonline.org to purchase these great new gift items!

*A note on AHG shipping and handling charges: Troops often express frustration with AHG’s shipping rate, and the Merchandise Department would like to share the “why” behind the “what”. AHG, Inc. does not make any profit from shipping charges, in fact last year AHG, Inc’s UPS and USPS bill was slightly higher than the charges collected from customers. In addition to the actual shipping bills, each order also requires a paid staff member to pull and pack items, packing materials, etc. Some Troops have expressed confusion when reading their receipt and seeing that a large badge order, for example, includes a $29 shipping and handling charge while the actual UPS charge is only $14. Though this appears unfair, customers often don’t notice the fall handbook order that also incurred a $29 AHG shipping and handling charge actually cost $45 to ship due to its weight. Shipping and handling rates are established to cover all items throughout the year, providing Troops with the most economical total cost possible while allowing AHG,Inc. to break even. AHG, Inc. is constantly looking for ways to save Troops money while being good stewards of the resources God has given - thank you for your understanding. 19 Check out the Winter 2013 Edition of the Heritage Headlines for complete coverage of AHG’s 2012 National Leadership Conference and Veteran’s Day!

American Heritage Girls is family-friendly and faith-based – perhaps the AHG Oath says it best: i c e r a m n

A H

e I promise to Love God,

t cherish my s O AT H family,

e i

G Honor my country and serve in my community.

American Heritage Girls, Inc Read about the Faith, 175 TriCounty Pkwy, Suite 100 Service & Fun that is AHG! Cincinnati, OH 45246