Spring 2012
Dear Friends of AHG,
Save the Dates
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Paperdoll Contest Results
2
Parent Evaluation Survey Results
4
Family Stewardship Campaign
4
Heart & Soul Candies Fundraiser
4
BSA Training
5
Veggie Tales Partnership
5
AHG Regional Camps
5
AHG National Catholic Committee
6
Stars and Stripes Recipients
6
Troop Tales
7
Alumni News
10
AHG Attic News
11
Welcome New Troops
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Dwight Stephenson, Chairman
Patti Garibay, Executive Director
Julia Schuster, Heritage Headlines Editor
Spring is in the air and the joy of new creation is all around us. Surely this
season is my favorite and may be yours as well. It is so easy to see God’s creative Hand in the beauty that surrounds us during this time of the year. But
for many who have been on this journey called life for a while, there have
been quite a few day where it is difficult to sense God’s sovereignty and love
for us. Man must be intentional in finding God’s blessings in their life for if
they seek, they will surely find.
This thought entered my mind after reviewing Esther’s final project for her
Stars and Stripes Award. Hailing from Colorado Springs, CO, Esther “chose
this project because I believe it is important for those who will be participating. When we take time to step outside of our comfort zones and learn about
the struggles and joys of others’ lives, we cannot help but be changed. Knowing about the sacrifices of veterans and active duty military members, leads to
a greater appreciation of the cost of freedom.”
What did Esther do? She conducted six veteran interviews for the Veteran’s
History Project at the Library of Congress. And she felt she was on the
clock…these interviews could not wait any longer as these gentlemen were no
longer in the spring of their life. Yet they have an important story to tell the
spring peepers – and these are amazing stories of love for one another, love for
mankind, bravery, respect and incredible valor.
Listening to James Hague, Army Veteran form the Vietnam War; Bruce
McCombs, Navy Veteran upon the USS Saratoga, WWII, Marshall Islands;
David Schneekloth, US Air Force Veteran, Vietnam War; Wendel Kent, US
Army Veteran, Korean War; Robin Woodruff, US Air Force Veteran, Korean
and Vietnam War and Lawrence Dale, US Army Veteran, WWII, Europe, I
was filled with emotion. I felt blessed to be part of an organization that values
the freedoms of our country and believes in honoring those that served) it, I
felt honored to know that AHG may have had a little bit to do with Esther’s
decision in investing hundreds of hours to honor these men appropriately and I
felt overwhelmed by the sacrifice described by these ordinary men who have
done extraordinary things in their lifetime.
Esther placed jewels of history into our national treasure chest by spending
hours of research, interviewing, editing and compiling the stories of these Veterans. Her work will be educating youth and adults for years to come and she
will be blessing the families’ of these Veterans when they search through the
family archives to learn what the lives of their ancestors were like.
During this season of spring, I hope you will consider like Esther, what stories
and memories need to be preserved in your heritage. What do those in the
spring of their lives need to learn from those who are in their winter season?
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Have you thought to interview your great grandmother who
planted seeds of faith into your heart before you could even
ride a bike? Or what about your grandfather that insisted that
you ask for the Lord’s blessing before you dug into the dinner
meal? Or the mother who consistently placed devotional books
in your Christmas stocking, praying that one day you would
come back to Him and raise your future family accordingly?
Wishing God’s richest blessing this Spring,
Patti
Don’t Miss Out – Save the Date!
“Connect, Care, Challenge and Celebrate
with AHG Leaders at the 2012 National
Leadership Conference, November 8-10,
2012 in Mason, OH. This year’s Conference registration includes two and a half
days of workshops as well as worship and
inspirational messages.
The AHG Conference is a great way for Adult Volunteers
across the country to gather together for focused training and
fellowship while networking with others. Come as a team and
leave feeling cared for, refreshed and rejuvenated so that you
may better serve the girls in new and powerful ways!
Challenge yourself with the transforming line up of over 40
workshops. Consider the highly rated, Leadership Encounter
training with four progressive workshop sessions so that you
may equip your Troop to Lead Like Jesus – brought to you by
Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges’ facilitator training team.
Also available are enlightening workshops presented by Marv
Penner on social issues girls face today, Beth Guckenberger
with her resourceful background as founder of Back 2 Back
Ministries, and outdoor training taught by Boy Scouts of
America and Sportsmen’s Alliance. Learn more about AHG’s
program initiatives with Patti Garibay, AHG’s National Executive Director and Founder, Pam Davis, President of Girls ‘n
Grace, and through the creativity of author, Renata Bowers on
AHG’s National Day of Service.
As it becomes available, additional information will be posted
on www.ahgonline.org/2012NLC . Join in the celebration –
registration begins June 1st at the special price of $110!
Register Today!
AHG is headed
to BSA’s
Philmont Scout
Ranch Training
Center and the class is filling up quickly! $50 will reserve
your spot! Week 9 — August 5-11, 2012
Join us for a wonderful time of networking and learning for
those wishing to see AHG grow in their Area. Both BSA and AHG
Adult Members are welcome to attend and learn more about how
the BSA/AHG Memorandum of Mutual Support can result in
growth for both organizations, as well as amazing
opportunities for youth across the country! Topics
will focus on growth opportunities ranging from
BSA/AHG partnership ideas to Girl Leadership ideas, how to utilize BSA camps/facilities to incorporating an all-girl Venture Crew in AHG’s older girl
programming, girl and adult recruitment to Area
development. AHG will also unveil a number of
new initiatives, including the revised Honor Troop and AHG Ambassador program.
Not only will participants gain a wealth of knowledge and networking, but they will also have the opportunity to experience a bit of
the beauty and adventure that is Philmont! Philmont is BSA’s largest national high-adventure base.
Training participants will be able to choose from a variety of activities which may include hiking, nature watching (from buffalo to elk
to antelope, it can all be seen at Philmont), great evening activities,
handicrafts, fly-fishing, trips/tours of the plethora of Southwest
“must-sees” located nearby, the Villa Philmonte, Philmont and Kit
Carson Museums. The Philmont Training Center also offers a full,
organized program for every member of the family—from infants
to spouses. So while you’re training, your family can be exploring
the wonders of Philmont. Meet up with them for free time and turn
this training into a vacation your family will NEVER forget!
AHG will be providing additional information in the months to
come, so mark your calendars now. To learn more about Philmont,
AHG’s training week at Philmont Scout Ranch, the outstanding
family program, or to register, visit
www.PhilmontTrainingCenter.org.
Paperdoll Contest
AHG’s Tenderheart Paperdoll, Faith, is ready to announce the names of her new friends! This winter, AHG
hosted a Name That Paperdoll Contest. Girls across the
country submitted hundreds of name ideas, and with all
the wonderful submissions, it was very difficult to choose
the winners! AHG would like to congratulate the following girls whose ideas were used in the naming of the
Pathfinder, Explorer, Pioneer and Patriot paperdolls!
Pathfinder: Joy Violet Shirley,
as named by Maria Nido of MI0138
Hi! My name is Joy Violet Shirley and I am five and a half
years old. I love being a Pathfinder and earning beads for
my necklace. I asked my Mommy about my name and she
says it is perfect for me because I am full of the joy of the
Lord. I think Violet is a great middle name for me, because
sometimes I feel shy and I’m small, just like a violet. My
last name, Shirley, comes from my Great Great Great
Grandma, Eliza Shirley! I’m so excited that I just earned my
Eliza Shirley Award (my Dad is really proud too!). I’ve
really loved AHG this year, especially when my Troop made
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sandwiches for the soup kitchen. It’s a lot of fun serving others!
My favorite Bible verse is Galatians 5: 22-23: But the fruit of
the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness,
faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things
there is no law. I try to make sure my words and actions show
the fruits of the Spirit everyday! Some days it’s easy, and other
days it’s really hard! There are lots of older girls in my Troop
that help me on those hard days – I can’t wait until I grow up
and can be just like them!
Explorer: Ruth Grace Clark,
as named by Noelle Grace Ru Chapman of CA2911.
Hi, my name is Ruth Grace Clark; a proud AHG Explorer! Before I was adopted, the name Ru (茹) was given to me
in China. Like many other AHG girls, I am privileged
to have been adopted into a Christian family in America. My family wanted me to retain Ru (茹) in my
name, so they named me Ruth. I love my name, because the book of Ruth is one of my most favorite in
the Bible. I love how Ruth, a foreigner, stayed with her
Jewish mother-in-law and was providentially blessed
by God to be Jesus' great-grandmother. My favorite
verse even comes from this book: Ruth 1:16 “But Ruth
replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you.
Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your
people will be my people and your God my God.”
My middle name, Grace, is important because as a Christian, I
was adopted into God's family through Jesus Christ. My last
name, Clark, means a lot to me too, because I admire Sacagawea
and how she helped the explorer's Lewis and Clark. William
Clark adopted Sacagawea's son, Jean Baptiste and promised him
an education and a better life – sort of like my story. It is also
significant because of the Explorer Level Award I hope to
achieve soon!
I have had so much fun earning badges this year! My favorite
AHG badges so far are World Heritage, Women Inventors and
Daughter of the King which is the most meaningful to me because I was adopted as a daughter of my King Jesus!
My favorite service projects are helping and serving people with
handicaps in our community as well as donating my allowance
to send Bibles to countries in need of them. I am proud that my
Troop, CA2911, sponsors a girl in South America who is getting
a Christian education and prayerfully, a better life. I have enjoyed writing letters to her and learning what life is like in South
America! I love making new friends, so hopefully I can meet
you soon – maybe at camp this summer!
Pioneer: Virginia Rosa Hart,
as named by Geneva Grace Ulmer of OH0222
Hi! I am a 13 year old Pioneer and my name is Virginia
Rose Hart, but sometimes by friends just call me “Vi”. My
parents gave me the name Virginia because not only was I
born in Virginia, but many of our founding fathers were
born there, including Thomas Jefferson and George Washington (I love visiting his home at Mount Vernon.). My
middle name, Rosa, is Spanish for Rose (did you know I
can speak both English and Spanish?!). The Rose is the United
States' national flower and its scarlet color reminded my parents of
the blood that so many soldiers have shed for our freedom. Another
cool fact about my name is that I share the last name 'Hart' with
'Honest' John Hart, (Honest, just like in our AHG creed!) signer of
the Declaration of Independence.
When I was 7, I joined American Heritage Girls and loved it from
the very beginning. I've always enjoyed camping, being outdoors,
spending time with girls my age, and most of all being able to learn
and share my growing Faith in Jesus Christ. My favorite badges are
Sewing, Horsemanship, Cake Decorating, and Archery. My favorite
service project was making care packages for the sick and shut-ins.
My favorite school subject is History - I love learning about our
country, especially the early colonial period. My favorite verses are
Proverbs 3: 5-6, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean
not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and
he will make your paths straight.” These verses always give me
courage and confidence in God's special plan for me!
Patriot: Hope Esther Madison,
as named by Victoria Reese of IL2239
Hi there – I’m Hope Esther Madison, a Patriot in American Heritage Girls. My parents tell me that my name fits me perfectly
because I daily put my hope in the Lord, and I am courageous
like Esther in the Bible and former First Lady Dolly Madison.
Sometimes balancing high school, sports, and AHG can be a
challenge, but my favorite Bible verse, Psalm 118:6 gives me
peace and hope - "The Lord is on my side; I will not fear: what
can man do unto me?" I love this promise of protection from
my heavenly Father!
My earthly Dad also works hard to protect me, and my country
– he’s a Major in the Army. This is why my favorite service
project was making care packages for the troops in the U.S. Army.
I’m even considering serving the Army in some way for my Stars &
Stripes Project.
I have enjoyed so many of the badges I have earned over the years,
but my favorite badge is the cooking badge. I hope that one day
God will bless me with becoming a mother, and the cooking badge
has helped me learn how to prepare delicious (I hope) food for my
family! I love mentoring the younger girls in my Troop and am
always the first to sign up for High Adventure activities. I’ve been
talking to my Unit Leader about starting a Venture Crew so my
friends and I can take that great sailing adventure we’ve been
dreaming of!
Because we’re an Army family, I move around the country often,
which means I have to leave many friends behind. Though this is
difficult, I know I will always have friends in American Heritage
Girls no matter where I go. No matter where I am, my hope is in
the Lord, my personal savior, I love my country, and am so very
glad that God is my protector!
Join us in welcoming Joy, Ruth, Virginia and Hope to the American Heritage Girls! Many thanks to Maria, Noelle, Geneva and
Victoria for their creative entries. Thanks to ALL the girls who
submitted entries for the contest– the staff loved seeing the creativity and sweet hearts of girls!
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2011-2012 AHG End of Year Parent Evaluation Survey
Annual Family Stewardship Campaign Results
AHG families were recently surveyed regarding the impact of
the AHG program on their daughters. The results:
AHG reached 84% of its goal of $45,000
with approximately 600 families of
11,865 (5%) donating
Has AHG helped your daughter to?
87%
yes, to learning self-reliance
96%
yes, to learning more values
99%
yes, to being in a friendly, safe environment
98%
yes, to building friendships
98%
yes, to having positive role models
98%
yes, to learning respect for others
97%
yes, to having experiences not had elsewhere
98%
yes, to caring about others
99%
yes, to wanting to serve others
Other results include:
95.2% of parents felt that their daughter’s Troops were serving
the community.
99.1% of parents stated that AHG was helpful in developing
life skills within their daughters.
89.7% of parents felt that the AHG experience reinforced and
strengthened their daughter’s relationship with God.
88.5% of parents felt that the AHG program encouraged their
daughter to learn more about her country and its history.
76.6% parents felt AHG has helped their daughters grow in
leadership skills.
92.9% of parents felt that AHG has helped their daughter have
a sense of pride in America.
90.4 % of parents felt that their daughters have grown in confidence due to their involvement in AHG.
95% of parent felt that the AHG program is a good value in
comparison to other extracurricular activities in the community.
97.9% of families stated that AHG has been a positive experience for their families.
Pen Pal Reminder
Parents, if your daughter is participating
in the Pen Pal program, don't forget to
encourage her to fulfill her commitment
of writing her Pen Pal at least once a
month. Though life can get busy and
letter writing easily overlooked, it can be
very heartbreaking to a letter-less Pen
Pal. You may even consider building in 10 minutes at the beginning or end of your meeting to allow Pen Pals to write a
quick note, create a card, etc. Thanks for your wonderful help
in making this a successful program.

The average gift was $60

Families from 180 troops of 411 donated

Over 40% of families participate from:
AK2008  CO0002  IL0224  IL8510
KY2111  KY3130  OH2168  WY0220
Thanks to all who participated in this year’s campaign. Donations
are still encouraged and can be made through the AHG website at
www.ahgonline.org/donate.
Heart & Soul Candies
Heart & Soul Candies is gearing up for
the 4th Annual 2012-13 AHG Chocolate Fundraiser. This is the only fundraiser that Heart & Soul Candies does,
as they believe in the mission and values of AHG. They were the first AHG co-branded fundraiser. Their
product is “The gift that tells the story, yours and HIS!”
For 2012-13, Heart & Soul Candies is offering a new Christmas
box flavor combination of Milk Chocolate & Caramel. They are
also debuting a Dark Chocolate Candy Bar. Yummy!
Last year AHG Troops sold over 10,200 boxes and 15,500 candy
bars. $86,000 in Total Product was sold. Members sold on average
15 boxes and 20 bars, raising over $100. Troops sold on average
150 boxes and 345 bars, raising over $1,080. KY3130 raised over
$10,000 for their troop!
Heart & Soul Candies is proud to announce the winning troops of
the ALL EXPENSE PAID TRIP to the 2012 AHG NATIONAL
CONFERENCE (Valued at $850 per person):
KY3130 & TX1171! Way to go!
Make sure to look for their Candy bars and special gift for each
camper this summer at AHG camps nationwide!
Comments by participating troops: "Thank you so much. This was a
great selling experience for our troop. We are in our second year
as an AHG troop and this was our first major fundraiser. You
made it so very simple and the orders were filled with great precision. Thank you for your excellent customer service!"- Ann G,
MO1345
For more information, check out www.heartandsoulcandies.com/
ahg. Toll Free 1-888-214-3619 or direct at 305-433-3635, [email protected].
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BSA Training Supplements
AHG is committed to keeping girls safe
and is so thankful that the Boy Scouts of America is allowing
AHG Volunteers to utilize many of its top-notch trainings. Though designed for volunteers working with boys, the
principles presented extend to all youth. AHG has created materials to supplement the BSA curriculum to help you understand AHG Health and Safety Guidelines and nuances with
working in an all-girl environment. Supplemental materials,
along with registration links, are available on AHG’s password
-protected Leader Site at www.ahgonline.org/training. It is
crucial that AHG Leaders refer to supplemental material while
training, and note that slight differences exist between BSA
and AHG policies. All AHG members must adhere to AHG
policies and guidelines while participating in AHG sponsored
activities.
Though all the featured trainings are highly recommended,
those in red on the following listing are AHG's top picks of
where to start with your training.
Trainings Available Online
All of the following trainings are available on BSA’s website,
free of charge! Some require the participant to create a
username and password, but none require current BSA membership. Take advantage of these wonderful resources today!
BSA's Youth Protection – Required for all AHG Volunteers
beginning Fall 2012
BSA's Weather Hazards
BSA's Safe Swim Defense
BSA's Safety Afloat
BSA's Teaching Leave No Trace
BSA's Trek Safely
BSA's Climb On Safely
BSA's Geocaching to Promote Scouting
BSA's Cold Weather Camping
Live, BSA Council-Sponsored Trainings
Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills
University of Scouting
Additional Recommended Trainings
American Red Cross Wilderness & Remote First Aid
Veggie Tales
Don’t forget about all the fun that your girls can have with
Veggie Tales! AHG has been
thrilled to partner with Veggie
Tales in its release of two videos
made just for girls – The Princess
& the Pop Star and Sweet Pea Beauty. Special patch programs
have been created for American Heritage Girls, which offer a
fun and exciting opportunity for girls to learn more about how
the life God gave them is the one for which they were uniquely and
lovingly designed. Visit www.ahgonline.org/veggietales to learn
more about these great programs and visit VeggieTales.com to order Event Kits, DVDs and patches today! Keep watching this summer, as Veggie Tales and AHG team up once again in the release of
a NEW DVD to help girls understand that God loves them, no matter what!
AHG Regional Summer Camps – coming to a town near
you!
With spring’s sunshine, AHG is dreaming of the warm days of
summer, and with summer comes AHG
Regional Summer Camps!
Summer
camp is a wonderful opportunity for your
daughter to make new friends, learn new
skills, grow closer to God and have a ton
of fun. Regional Camps are held across
the country and all currently registered
AHG girls are welcome to participate.
Visit AHG’s Regional Camp page at
www.ahgonline.org/regionalcamps to find a camp near you. This
page offers contact and location information as camp plans are finalized, so check back often. If your Troop is sponsoring a 2012
Regional Camp, email your Support Service Coordinator with
the details for posting. Most camps begin registration in late winter/early spring, so ensure your daughter has a summer to remember
by registering her for an AHG Regional Summer Camp!
Insignia Placement
There has been increased interest in two great character development awards – the Presidential Service Award and the
Youth Patriotism Awards. These wonderful awards may be
earned by individual girl members and are great additions to
the AHG program and reinforce AHG’s Program Emphasis of
Character Development. Because these are not official AHG
insignia, and not required for AHG advancement, once earned,
these awards should be placed on the back of the vest or sash.
Additional insignia placement information can be found on the
AHG Parent Site (www.ahgonline.org/parent) and on pages 22-27
of the AHG Girl Handbook. For more information about the Presidential Service Award and Youth Patriotism Awards, contact your
Troop leadership or visit www.presidentialserviceawards.gov/ and
www.youthpatriotism.org/.
Catholic Committee
American Heritage Girls is excited to announce its inaugural National Catholic Committee! This spring, AHG will begin recruiting
and selecting dedicated volunteers to serve on this committee. The
National Catholic Committee’s role will be to advise the American
Heritage Girls in relation to the Catholic Church and seek to sustain
and strengthen the relationship between AHG and the Catholic
Church in the United States. AHG’s National Catholic Committee
exists to utilize and ensure the constructive use of the AHG program as a viable form of youth ministry with Catholic girls of our
nation. An eblast will be going out this spring with additional information on how to apply to serve on this committee, along with
Ministry Agreements, structure, etc. Additional questions re: serving in this capacity can be directed to [email protected].
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Quarterly Leader Resource Guide
AHG provides Troop leadership with a quarterly Leader Resource Guide (over 100 pages of fun-filled activities) to aid in
planning activities for all six parts of the AHG program. Each
resource guide includes at least two badge helps, and this year
many of AHG’s great new badges will be featured! This is a
MUST have for all Unit Leaders! Archived Leader Resource
Guides are available for download from the Leaders' Resource
area at www.ahgonline.org/resourceguide.
Stars and Stripes Recipients
The Stars and Stripes Award recognizes girls who epitomize
the AHG Oath and Creed. It is AHG’s highest honor and similar to BSA’s Eagle Scout. Earning this prestigious award
means a girl has worked diligently and has fulfilled all six of
AHG’s program emphases by meeting all of the award requirements. This award recognizes that she has laid the foundation
for becoming a woman of integrity!
A candidate must complete a number of requirements to
achieve this honor, including:
Completing the Dolley Madison Level Award
Earning a total of 16 Badges
Earning the Religious Recognition associated with their
denomination
Having held a leadership position in their Troop for a minimum of six months
Planning, developing, and providing leadership to others in
a 100+ hour service project
Writing a Life Ambition/ Spiritual Walk Essay and miniresume
Receiving at least 3 Letters of Reference
Passing a Board of Review
During the Spring of 2012, a number of young ladies worked
diligently and now have the honor of being called a Stars &
Stripes Recipient! This quarter’s recipients include:
Kindle Gossage
“Even though they have their physical
needs met, they still need to most importantly remember God’s love.” This
need is what propelled Kindle Gossage, of
VA0711, into the lives of homeless families at Good Shepherd Alliance’s Hebron
House. Why not use a special day reserved
for expressions of love to share God’s
love? Valentine’s Day can be very lonely
for a mistreated woman and her family, so
Kindle decided to turn the day around for the families at Hebron House.
A little healthy competition on change collection between
Kindle’s AHG Troop and the local Cub Scouts, made for most
of the budget that was needed. Another collaborative effort, a
bake sale, contributed the remaining monetary needs. Toys,
jewelry, art supplies and candy were collected to make gift
baskets for the children staying at Hebron House with their moms.
The day set aside for project event prep was filled with cooking a
lasagna dinner and preparing gift baskets. The day of the event
involved practicing with the mime team, arranging roses for each
woman to be present, setting up and covering it all with prayer.
Kindle shared a devotional with the group about God’s love for
them. Then her mime team presented three songs reinforcing the
devotional. Conversation flowed and the children had instant
playmates for the evening. There were even left-overs to leave at
the Hebron House!
Kindle shares that allowing more time for the project planning
and fundraising is a must. And be ready for anything…even
snow. Using the Project Description as a guide for each step
saved the day: “It really did help, because at one point I was preoccupied with some volunteers, and several other volunteers
wanted to know what happed next, so they looked at my description and found exactly what to do. Descriptions are awesome!”
We agree, Kindle, the more detail you provide in a Project Description, the smoother your Project Implementation will be.
Congratulations, Kindle, on turning your heart for sharing God’s
love into a memorable project for a group of people who needed
something extra special.
Cassie Hughes
Cassie removed her training wheels and put
the pedal to the metal for her Stars and Stripes
Project! Repairing old bikes for the kids at
Murphy-Harpst Children’s Home was the initial goal but God had a bigger picture. Donation letters raised enough funds to repair 19
bikes and 12 used helmets. Cassie looked beyond that accomplishment and found more
work was needed.
A fund-raiser breakfast at her church was very successful, providing enough funds for 5 new bikes and 12 new helmets! Seven
more donated bikes came along as well. Even more bikes were
repaired. Whew! When all was said and done, Cassie had bought
5 new bikes, collected 51, repaired 32 (six of these were small and
went to another ministry) and pulled enough parts to keep the
Home supplied for quite a while on replacement goods. She also
provided a big meal for the kids and volunteers with time to interact Cassie sums up the excitement of the project, “When we were
fixing the bikes, the kids were ecstatic! No sooner would we have
a bike ready to be ridden, it would be claimed. The smiles from
the kids were probably one of the most rewarding parts of my
project. On my last workday, I had a group of three kids come up
to me and say thank you. I almost cried because I was thinking,
‘How could one person like me have such an impact on another
person’s life?’ I can never know exactly how I impacted these
kids’ lives but I would hope it is life long.”
Cassie, you presented a wonderful example of touching lives with
a simple gift. Well done, GA2911 Stars and Stripes Award recipient!
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Tessa Gartin
The reason for choosing a particular project for the Stars
and Stripes Award varies with each young lady. For
Tessa Gartin of KY3130 it was a matter of expanding on
the teamwork lessons and values she has gleaned from
being a part of American Heritage Girls. In her words, “…
the whole goal of a low ropes course is to teach teamwork
and problem solving. I chose Team Expansion because
teamwork is a part of their core values and I feel like
teamwork and leadership are the two most important
things I learned from being a member of AHG…The goal
of my project is to construct a low ropes course element
that will be used to help train missionaries, teaching them
teamwork.”
So plans for a “Whale Watch” were made. No, there’s not
an ocean in Kentucky! This particular element is designed to “strengthen community through challenge, cooperation and communication. The entire group must find
balance on the giant seesaw like platform.”
Tessa’s compassion and “can do” attitude has lead her to
become a passionate fundraiser for several ministries.
Since fundraising does not qualify as an Award project,
she turned that passion into a project that would benefit
others who are equally passionate about God’s calling in
their life. The photos of Tessa’s team working on the
Whale Watch, proves that team building skills are already
in practice at the site.
Way to go, Tessa. You found the balance between handson and paperwork in your Award process.
Troop Tales
Wreaths Across America
Troop TX2928 has been busy this year. However, one of
the most memorable, patriotic, enjoyable, and beneficial events we
had the opportunity to participate in
was Wreaths
Across America.
On December 10, 2011, we helped place 31,000 beautiful
wreaths on soldier’s graves to honor and thank our veterans for their service and sacrifice..
Next year’s event will be on December 15 and you can bet
our troop will be there—uniformed and prepared--to honor our country and the soldier’s that served and sacrificed
for our great nation.
Joan Hixon, Vice Coordinator, TX2928
Alaska AK2008 News
Our girls attended the UA Anchorage Lady Seawolves basketball
game against arch-rivals UA Fairbanks. To start the game, AK1920’s
Maddie Filson sang the National Anthem for a packed house, while
our girls performed the color guard ceremony. After a big win, our
girls were invited onto the court for a post-game celebration!
Our first-ever winter campout featured
quinzee (snow cave) construction. (counting
towards the Camping Badge.) Through our
partnership with a Boy Scout Troop, the boys
came and piled the snow for our girls and departed; then the girls affixed “quinzee sticks”
to gauge the wall thickness from within, and
dug them out. The next morning, many girls
worked on their “Climb On” badge at an indoor rock wall while others travelled outside
to the frozen surface of Lake Edmonds, where
they launched model rockets (Living and
Working in Space Badge.) To warm up after
the time outside on the frozen “rocket range”, they worked on a Service Project to support the making of quilts for Alaska Correctional
Ministries. This ministry program serves female inmates at the State
Correctional Center who complete a rigorous, life-transforming Bible
Study program. They receive the gift of a handmade quilt with a cross
– often the first possession the inmate receives after leaving prison and
re-entering society.
Girls from AK0489 and AK1920
joined us in our second “Etiquette
Night” in March. Girls leveling up
to Patriot organized and enjoyed
this fun evening with Boy Scout
Troop 144, which shares our values
and vision. Starting with instruction on formal introductions, polite
conversation and then hors d’oeuvres (served by parents), both Scouts
and our girls enjoyed a formal dinner, followed by an introduction to
ballroom dancing. As we briefed our girls, this was not a “date night”
but a true etiquette instruction opportunity. Dance partners were shifted every dance, and good manners was emphasized, right down to the
reception line to thank the hosts.
Greg Schmidt, Vice Coordinator, AK2008
Youth-Led National Day of Prayer in Trophy Club, TX
American Heritage Girls Troop TX0771 participated in the Youth-Led
National Day of Prayer in Trophy Club, Texas. They joined with the
Fellowship of Christian Athletes of Byron Nelson High School, Boy
Scouts Troops 328 and 928, Fellowship United Methodist Church,
Lake Cities Church of Christ, Bara Church, and Church at Trophy
Lakes. The AHG Troop TX771 passed
out programs and flags, served cookies
and lemonade at the end, and picked up
trash when it was all over. This is our
second year as a troop to volunteer and
participate at the Youth-Led National
Day of Prayer service.
Caroline Whitington, Patriot, TX0771
8
Scouting for Food
On Saturday, February 4, 2012, the American Heritage Girls,
Troop CA0304, led by Mrs. Mohun, Mrs. Shaneyfelt, Mrs.
Leon, and several other moms of St. Sebastian Church, led the
girls in a Scouting for Food event.
The AHG girls went from 10:00 to 2:00 in two shifts, asking
for donations of canned or boxed food in the neighborhoods of
Santa Paula. They collected food to feed the hungry. They went
from house to house and received many kind and generous
donations. Later, the AHG girls went to the back parking lot at
St. Sebastian Church where St. Vincent de Paul members were
waiting to help organize and deliver the food.
It is a blessing that with the help of AHG and the donors, St.
Vincent de Paul was able to feed many families in need. A big
thanks to the American Heritage Girls who helped collect the
food, and a special thanks to the donors and the moms who led
the girls to their goal.
Mercy Hidley, Pioneer, CA0304
A Lesson on Army History
In March, TX0129 got the chance to go to Camp Mabry, the
headquarters
of the Texas
Military
Forces near
Austin, Texas. All of
them were
excited and
ready to
work on
their
“Freedomʼs
Heroes”
badge. The girls warmed up with some exercises led by Major
Davis, a dad of one of our Explorers, followed by a short
demonstration of what makes up a cadence. A cadence is when
soldiers are marching in time, and it is where “left, left, left,
right, left” came from. In addition to marching a little chant is
said in time with the march. The girls were then divided by unit
and given a set of rules to use while making their own cadence
and cadence song to keep them in time. The Tenderheart 2 unit
blew the other competition away, but all the girls did a fantastic
job. Even the Pathfinders competed and were tough competition.
After a picnic lunch and pictures with the bluebonnets and the
planes mounted out by the running track, the girls took the opportunity to tour the museum which was on site. They even
took part in a scavenger hunt within the museum, which most
of them completed with pride. At the end of the day, every girl
who went was filled with a little more information on our country’s troops and the important roles they have played, and will
continue to play, in our nation’s history.
Hannah Hoffmann, Pioneer, TX0129
Breaking Bread with CA0029
Several times a year, our charter organization, Immanuel Prince of
Peace Lutheran Church, participates in a ministry called Breaking
Bread. Every Saturday, various churches/organizations take turns
organizing a hot meal for anyone in our community that desires
one. They also deliver to
individuals that have
trouble leaving their
homes. Our troop helps
when it is our charter
organization's turn. The
younger girls help serve
and clean up tables, as
well as providing much
appreciated conversation
to the guests. They have
even been known to sing
to them. The older girls
help with serving, and do most of the dishes and cleaning up. This
is a wonderful way for our girls to serve in the community. We
even to get to wear hair nets!
Melissa Burke, Troop Coordinator. CA0029
2nd Annual Oklahoma AHG Powder Puff Derby
On Saturday, March 10, Troops OK9111, OK0405, OK0002, and
OK1109 joined host Troop OK1991 at the Second Annual MultiTroop Powder Puff Derby in Edmond, OK. More than 65 girls
from the 5 troops competed in speed races and a voter's choice design contest. Cub Scout Pack 1 of the Last Frontier Council (also of
Edmond) was gracious enough to provide a derby track, and we
benefited greatly from their knowledge and expertise - as well as
leader and boy assistance!
The girls showed amazing creativity in their car designs. We had a
carrot car, several wedges of cheese, and an ice cream sandwich; a
working music box ("Glamour & Glitz" winner), a flip-flop, a pencil ("Most Imaginative" winner), a beautifully carved "AHG"mobile ("AHG Spirit" winner), an Oklahoma-themed tornado and
oil-well car ("OK Spirit" winner), and so many more!
The races were close, but a Pathfinder from OK1991 ended up winning the First Place trophy by a mere .006 seconds. Each Troop
left with at least one trophy; ribbons, medals, and certificates were
presented to other winners for both speed and design. Participation
patches
were given
to all.
Plans are
already
underway
to make
next year's
derby run
smoother
and quicker, and we all look forward to seeing our AHG neighbors again
next year!
Kathryn Winterscheidt,Troop Coordinator, OK1991
9
To the Stars
Members of American Heritage Girls Troop MI 0138 attended
the Vaden W. Miles Memorial Lecture held at Wayne State
University in March. The speaker, Colonel Terry Virts, was a
NASA Astronaut and the pilot of STS-130. The girls loved
listening to Colonel Virts’ narration of his Space Shuttle mission, especially the video of his friends eating, drinking, and
playing in microgravity.
After the lecture, the girls waited their turn to get their picture
taken with Colonel Virts. When asked by someone about
their uniforms, we were happy to talk about AHG. After our
photo opportunity, my daughter grabbed a flyer from my purse
and brought it back to Colonel Virts! He asked if this was
some sort of Christian Scouting program. We assured
him that that was exactly
what it was. He smiled and
said that he was a believer
too! What a great role model! And what a great opportunity to get the word out
about AHG!
A few days later, I received an email from the organizers of
the lecture looking for my address so that they could send
signed photos of Colonel Virts to the young people that I
brought. When the photos arrived, they were signed, “Ad Astra, Terry Virts, Pr 3: 5-6”. We are so very grateful to Colonel
Virts and his wonderful witness to our girls.
Johanne Newell, Troop Vice Coordinator, MI0138
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own
understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will
make your paths straight. Pr 3: 5-6
CA2911 to Deliver President’s Volunteer Service Award
American Heritage Girls Troop CA2911 has teamed
with the White House to become a Certifying Organization for the President’s Volunteer Service Award, a
national program recognizing Americans who have
demonstrated a sustained commitment to volunteer
service. Established in 2003, the Award was created
by President George W. Bush to give Presidential
recognition to individuals, families and groups who
meet requirements for volunteer service, measured by
the number of service hours performed over 12months.
As a Certifying Organization for the Award, American
Heritage Girls Troop CA2911 First Presbyterian
Church of Oxnard, is responsible for verifying service
hours, nominating potential recipients and delivering
the Award.
“We are extremely proud to recognize our most outstanding
volunteers with the President’s Volunteer Service Award,”
said Annie Slagboom, Coordinator. “American Heritage Girl
volunteers are role models in our community, donating their time,
energy and talent to bring us closer together as neighbors and a Nation. The Award is our way of thanking these volunteers and inspiring everyone in our community to make volunteering a central part
of their lives.”
“Even if you’ve never volunteered before, the President’s Volunteer
Service Award is within your reach,” Annie Slagboom said. “There
are so many ways to contribute, and every volunteer hour makes a
difference in improving the quality of life for others. We encourage
everyone to get involved and to bring along your family, friends
and neighbors. Together, we can strengthen America – one hour at
a time.”
The Award is issued by the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation. . Chaired by two-time Super Bowl Champion Darrell Green, with former U.S. Senators Bob Dole and John Glenn as
honorary co-chairs, the Council is composed of leaders in government, media, entertainment, business, education, nonprofit and volunteer service organizations and community volunteering.
Annie Slagboom, CA2911, Troop Coordinator
A unique way to raise funds for PA304
Annually, the National Quilt Museum in
Paducah, KY coordinates and Moda Fabrics sponsors a quilt block competition for
schools and organizations. Students use
their math skills and creativity to create the
blocks for the School Block Challenge.
This year, 307 students from schools and
community organizations nationwide submitted blocks.
This year's American grand prize winner of the of the 2012 School
Block Challenge was: Wonderful Windmills, by Katie Anthony,
American Heritage Girls PA0304, Dillsburg, PA. Katie's prize of
$300 for the troop was presented to her at the Paducah Quilt Show
Awards Ceremony.
TX 2928 awarded Archbishop’s Trophy
The 2012 Archbishop’s Trophy was presented to a Catholic parish
with an American Heritage Girls (AHG) Troop. Prince of Peace
(POP) Catholic Community was awarded the highest honor from
the Galveston/Houston Archdiocesan Committee on Girl Scouting
this spring.
This is the first time in the history of the Galveston/Houston Archdiocesan Committee on
Girl Scouting that a
Catholic parish with an
AHG Troop earned the
coveted award. POP
chartered AHG Troop
TX2928 in 2010. This is
the first AHG troop
sponsored by a Catholic
parish in the archdiocese
of Galveston-Houston.
10#
Each year on Girl Scout Recognition Sunday, the Trophy is
presented to one parish whose scouting Troop made outstanding contributions of service to the church, community, and
home while making continued progress in their own spiritual
development.
The parish makes a vital contribution toward the achievement
of this trophy by offering opportunities for the youth members
in a troop to enrich their spiritual life and by informing and
helping scout members acquire one or more of the religious
recognitions sponsored by the Archdiocesan Committee on Girl
Scouting. AHG TX2928 excelled in these requirements
according to parish leaders and
the committee.
TX2928 participated in numerous service projects totaling
more than 610 hours to the
community. Service projects
included but not limited to care packages for soldiers in the
Middle East, Wreath across America, assistance to a women
crisis shelter, a homeless shelter, adopting two large families
for the parish Adopt-A-Family Christmas project and Scouting
for Food with their brother Cub Scouts.
We are Blessed to Serve
Band of Brothers
veterans Bob
Noody and Brad
Freeman pause
from signing autographs to be interviewed by MacKenzie Maney,5,
of Louisville Ky.
Maney is an American Heritage Girl from Troop KY0454 and
is interviewing the Band of Brothers for a merit badge. Three
members of the original Band of Brothers visited the Alabama
Gun Collectors Gun show in March. Earl McClung, Brad Freeman and Bob Noody were all members of the 101st Airborne
506th Parachute Infantry Division. Only 18 of the original
Band of Brothers remain. McClung, Freeman and Noody parachuted into Normandy, Bastogne and Berchtesgaden. Their
story was made famous by the HBO series "Band of Brothers".
AHG Texas Camporee
American Heritage Girls TX0191 participated in the first state
wide AHG Texas Camporee
competition in March. With
eight troops from all over the
state, over 80 girls competed
in outdoor skills events like
Map & Compass, Knot Tying,
Outdoor Cooking, Backpacking, First Aid. Nine girls from
the Lake Dallas troop traveled
to BSA Camp Tahauya in Belton, Texas and came home with
several individual event ribbons as well as being the overall
Camporee Honor Troop. The girls and their leaders had a great
time and enjoyed meeting other AHG members. TX0191’s regular
meetings are Tuesday evenings 6:30-8:00 at the Lake Dallas
Church of Christ and girls are welcome to join at any time during
the year. For more information about our troop meetings, email
[email protected]
Ellen Samek, Troop Coordinator, TX0191
Alumni News
AHG is proud of the Krzmarzick Family and the blessing
they brought to the people of Ecuador
For nine years, as members of AHG
Troop OH1995, Amy and Jenny
Krzmarzick promised to “Love God,
Cherish my Family, Honor my Country, and Serve in my Community”.
This past March, Jenny and Amy,
now 23 and 21, were able to live out
this promise on a much larger scale.
They traveled to Tena, Ecuador on a Medical Mission Trip, with
their brother Ben, and their father Tom, a past AHG board president. The trip was organized through Medical Ministries International and consisted of providing medical and dental treatment to
five remote villages in the Amazon jungle. Medical Ministries International is a Christian organization that provides opportunities to
serve Jesus Christ by providing spiritual and physical health care in
this world of need. After Morning Prayer, the first hurdle of the
day was to load up the bus with the medicine and equipment needed
for the day (The Krzmarzick family raised $2000 and brought 200
lbs. of medicines!). Tena, Ecuador sits at the edge of the Amazon
Rainforest and so reaching the different villages was a challenge.
Motorized canoes were used to reach several of the villages!
During the day, Amy and Jenny were in charge
of checking the patients in and recording their
intake information, while Ben worked with the
Optometrist. Dr. Tom, an ER Pediatrician,
always had a line of children waiting to see
him, some very sick, and some just eagerly
waiting their turn for a checkup in order to be
given a pair of sunglasses or a ball! During breaks, Ben enjoyed
playing soccer and Frisbee with the older kids, and Amy and Jenny
loved giving out stickers and playing games with the little ones.
Ecuador wasn’t all work and no play. The Krzmarzicks had a close
encounter with some mischievous monkeys, trekked through the
rainforest to a cave with an underground river and visited the Equator. The trip was a huge success! Dental and medical care was provided to 350 children and hundreds of adults. Tom, Jenny, Amy,
and Ben were able to experience a new
culture and serve the people they encountered. Lastly, Amy and Jenny
were able to continue to live by the
AHG oath that serves as a guide for
how they live their life.
Debbie Krzmarzick
11
AHG Attic News
Class “B” Uniforms T-Shirts Now Available!
Badge Magic-Never Sew Another Badge Again!!
AHG is excited to announce that we are now carrying Class
“B” uniform t-shirts to wear to activities when full uniform is
not appropriate. For example Class “B” uniforms would be
appropriate for hiking and camping trips. Although not mandatory these
affordable t-shirts are a great way for your Troop to show off AHG during
these special activities. The t-shirts are available in either red or royal and
priced at:
$6.00 Youth Small-Adult XL $8.00 Adult 2XL and Adult 3XL
Don't forget to order AHG Badge Magic kits to apply the
badges to your uniforms. Save time and money--pre-cut to the
exact size of AHG badges, service stars, Troop numbers, and
more. Just peel and stick!
Badge Magic is machine washable but can be easily removed to replace, reposition or recycle your badges Badge Magic kits start at $5.00 .
New AHG Paperdoll Mouse Pad!
New AHG Event Patches Now Available!
We are now carrying event patches for some of your most popular events at a low cost of $2.00 each. Check out the great list:
Mother Daughter PatchFather Daughter PatchClean Up Day
PatchFood Drive PatchToy Drive PatchService PatchScout
Sunday Patch
The AHG Attic is now carrying a soft top customized AHG
mouse pad that features all five Paperdolls, this would be the
perfect addition for any desk or workspace. At $5.00 this is
a great gift idea for any AHG Volunteer!!
Visit store.ahgonline.org to purchase these great items!
The AHG Attic Is Carrying a New Book!!
AHG's Preferred Banner Company
Princess Stories written by: Carolyn Larsen at a low price
of $12.50
Real Bible Stories of God's Princesses. Girls will love reading
about the women of the Bible and learning about the loyalty of
Ruth, the wisdom of Deborah, the courage of Esther...and so much more.
AHG now has a preferred banner company with Boss Print Design, Inc. This
company is inexpensive to use and already has
AHG's high resolution logo on file. Pictured is an
example of a sample banner. The bottom line where
AHG's web address is listed can be changed to reflect
your Troop number, church name, city or a combination of these.
Appropriate for girls ages 4-8, Princess Stories is a collection of first person
narrative stories of 29 women in the Bible. And the 30th story is about the
reader, who is God's princess too. Girls will learn more in depth stories of
women in the Bible and how to apply scripture to their own lives.
Contact Jay Lohman of Boss Print Design, Inc. for various banner sizes
and costs. (405)309-9727 [email protected]
Welcome New Troops
AL0514
Connections Presbyterian Church
Madison, AL
Kim Honeycutt
GA3125
Kingsland United Methodist Church
Kingsland, GA
Jennifer Rhodes
OR2070
His Church Forest Grove Foursquare
Forest Grove, OH
Connie Herrick
CA1131
Knights of Columbus
Oakdale, CA
Deborah Magdaleno
IL3208
Chillicothe Bible Church
Chillicothe, IL
Carla Dunbar
OR3130
Prepare the Way Ministries
Bend, OR
Jacki Higgins
CA9346
Santa Ynez Valley Presbyterian Church
Solvang, CA
Heather Taupin
NC0244
Peace Presbyterian Church
Cary, NC
Stephanie Massey
SC0725
Christ Community Church
Simpsonville, SC
Trista Tilley
FL1230
T.E.A.C.H.
Tallahassee, FL
Kendra Hall
NY3130
Berean Bible Church
Greene, NY
Michelle Whitbeck
TN3110
Bellevue Home School Enrichment &
Tutorials
Pegram, TN
Tiffany Beamer
FL1961
St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Parish
Altamonte Springs, FL
Colleen Snider
OH2303
St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church TX0838
Oak Harbor, OH
Knights of Columbus -St. Rita Dallas
Shawna Shadoan
Dallas, TX
Renee Taken
OH5624
Great Commission Bible Church
TX1776
Cincinnati, OH
Community Homeschool Center
Shannon Whittie
Bryan, TX
Candice Vines
FL2031
First United Methodist of Brandon
Brandon, FL
Corinna Dowell
TX2012
St Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic
School
Keller, TX
Allison Flagg Sullivan
TX5005
San Angelo Christian Academy
San Angelo, TX
Amanda Doty
VA0428
Holy Family Catholic Church
Dale City, VA
Elizabeth McLean
VA2911
Fairfax Church of Christ
Fairfax, VA
Jami Gustafson
WV0252
First Baptist Church of Kenova
Kenova, WV
Kendra Moore
The American Heritage Girls Organization is a
character development program for girls which
promotes God, family and country. We provide
life skills, leadership skills and character building.
We hope this newsletter will provide you with information about AHG. If you know of anyone interested in receiving our quarterly newsletter and
who would be supportive of our organization,
please contact us at (513)771-2025 or email us
at ahgonline.org and we will place them on our
mailing list.
Building Women of
Integrity through service
to God, family,
community and
country.
I Promise to Love God,
Cherish my Family,
Honor my Country and
Serve in my Community.
Heritage Headlines is
a quarterly publication of
American Heritage Girls, Inc.
Submission by members and troops
may be sent to:
175 Tri County Parkway #100
Cincinnati, OH 45246
Or [email protected]
American Heritage Girls
175 Tri-County Parkway
Cincinnati, OH 45246
Phone: 513.771.2025
Fax: 513.771.2595
www.ahgonline.org
National Leader Support
1.800.883.1064
[email protected]
Visit the AHG Attic 24 a day! www.ahgonline.org/store