GSSJC News

Girl Scout alumnae get a chance to 'camp like a girl'

July, 2010

Late night campfires and sing-a-longs. Early morning pajama breakfasts. Long summer days spent poolside, testing your aim at the archery range or learning a new skill, like canoeing, photography or horseback riding. This is what it means to "camp like a girl."

In late June, Girl Scout of San Jacinto Council alumnae revisited Camp Agnes Arnold and Camp Misty Meadows for their own chance to camp like a girl for a day.

"I had so much fun here as a child," said Christine White. "I wanted to see all the changes and see if I knew any of the Scouts that were coming to visit and reconnect."

Former Girl Scouts spent their day participating in activities, just like campers take part in during their week-long stays at one of three GSSJC resident camps. The morning started off with a flag ceremony on horseback at Camp Misty Meadows. Alumnae then took a tour of the barn and had a chance to "Love, Hug and Groom" some of the horses.

One of the new programs at resident camp this year is riflery. Girls learn how to shoot in an adult-supervised environment and are taught by volunteers and counselors who go through rigorous training. Alumnae had a chance to test their aim at the Camp Misty Meadows rifle range.

"I didn't think I'd enjoy the rifle range as much as I did," said Laura Leegiker.

Testing their aim continued at Camp Agnes Arnold with a trip to the archery range. Alumnae were instructed by trained counselors and a few managed to get an elusive bull's eye. The women also visited the new Nature Center at Camp Agnes Arnold, ate lunch in the lodge with campers and toured the newly-added Fishing Village camp unit.

"I enjoyed all the activities because I felt like I could be a little girl again," said Eileen Rampy.

The thing that impressed alumnae most, however, was the camp facilities. From air conditioned dormitories to tree houses, spacious lodges to a picturesque Nature Center, alumnae marveled at Camps Misty Meadows and Agnes Arnold throughout their day.

"There's more air conditioning!" laughed Kathy Nixon. "There are new facilities, but the atmosphere is still the same."

For more information the GSSJC Alumnae Association, visit www.gssjc.org or contact Sally Swanson at sswanson@sjgs.org or 713-292-0346.