The Register-Herald, Beckley, West Virginia

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  • Joy Beatty serves Vivian Delgra of Troop 2403 some authentic Australian food during the Girl Scout World Thinking Day Saturday at the Cross Point Church of God gym in Beckley. Chris Tilley

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February 24, 2013

Local Girl Scouts study, celebrate global cultures

By Sarah Plummer Register-Herald Reporter

BECKLEY — The Cross Point Church of God gymnasium resembled a world bazaar as more than 160 Girl Scouts of Black Diamond Council showed up in costumes representing 17 countries for World Thinking Day.

Membership coordinator Stacie Bolen said students presented dances, songs and games from each of the 17 countries, sharing what they had learned about the life and culture of girls in other countries.

Bolen said each year the presentations have gotten more detailed as the Scouts learn more and more about different countries.

After presenting their multicultural fashion show and cultural presentations, the Girl Scouts enjoyed a global potluck with dishes from all over the world.

Fifth-grader Emily Shrewsbury said her troop had learned about Afgha-nistan and she was surprised that girls her age are not able to go to school until they are older and have to wear a burqa when they reach age 9.

Having also learned about Afghan culture, third-grader Noelle Beatty said, “I learned that it doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from, girls can learn and play games and have fun. It is cool that they do some of the same stuff we do.”

Bolen explained that World Thinking Day is a good example of how Girl Scouts of the USA is an active and exciting organization in which girls learn while having fun together.

Troop leader Cathy Shrewsbury said she has her troop come up with a small business plan, be it pet grooming or a hair salon.

She has them develop professional e-mail addresses, create ads for the own businesses and figure out how much their business will cost.

“We do a lot of activities where the girls have to present information to each other. It make girls more outgoing and really builds their leadership and self-confidence,” she said.

Bolen noted that it is never too late to join Girl Scouts.

Membership is $12, and financial aid is available for those who wish to join but don’t have the means.

World Thinking Day may be over, but there are still plenty of activities left this year, she added.

Family Movie Night will draw a large crowd March 23, and a Me and My Hero Dance will be April 27.

There is a Bowling Night in May, and other individual troop activities are planned to round out the year.

Those interested in starting a troop, volunteering or becoming a Girl Scout can contact Membership Coordinator Stacie Bolen at 304-252-9836 or via e-mail, stacie.bolen@bdgsc.org.

— E-mail: splummer@ register-herald.com

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