The year was 1968. Girls from all over were camped in tents in the field, donning a camp uniform - white shirt and green shorts. They sang, hiked and swam in Owasco Lake. That was the year Emerson Lodge at the Girl Scout's Yaiewano Program Center was dedicated with much fanfare.

Fifty-five years ago in 1952, the property on the east side of Owasco Lake was officially named Yaiewano, or “she who watches over us,” after Harriet Maxwell Converse who received that name by the local Native Americans at the time.

Yaiewano continues to make memories for girls and help them build on life-time skills.

From 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, June 5, we invite families of girls interested in camping, friends and especially our former campers and staff to help us celebrate Yaiewano's 55th anniversary. Alumnae, may come and see how the camp has been modified with village units that include cabins and flush toilets.

We also welcome alumnae to share your camp memories with us.

You don't have to be a Girl Scout to attend our open house or enjoy summer camp sessions. There are many spots left in our summer camp programs.

During Tuesday's open house, there will be hot dogs and s'mores.

Visit www.girlscoutssevenlakes.org for a full brochure or call us at

539-5085 for directions.

Adults honored

Cathy Capeling of Auburn and Stacy Pendall of Locke received the Girl Scout Honor Pin at the recent annual meeting of the Girl Scouts-Seven Lakes Council. Margaret Dienhoffer and Carol Wood of Moravia each received the Appreciation Pin.

The Appreciation Pin honors outstanding service to Girl Scouting in one or more geographic areas.

The Honor Pin recognizes outstanding service in two or more areas.

Nominations are made to the council's volunteer Adult Awards Task Group that makes the final award selections.

Local board members elected

Katie Pepler of Auburn has been newly-elected, and Pamela Sheradin of Aurora and Deborah Schwarting of Weedsport have been reelected, to the board of directors of the Girl Scouts-Seven Lakes Council, Inc.

The board of directors oversees policy for the organization serving girls and adults in 13 counties including Cayuga.

Local Girl Scout volunteers earn President's Award

The volunteers in the Cato/Meridian Girl Scout service area were recognized by the Girl Scouts Seven Lakes Council for meeting a prescribed set of criteria, earning them the President's Award.

The volunteers completed requirements of adult training, girl and adult membership and retention and helping to move the council toward meeting its goals and objectives.

The volunteer manager of the Cato/Meridian Service Unit is Rose Weller.

Judith E. Gallagher is communications director for the Girl Scouts Seven Lakes Council, Inc. She can be reached at 539-5085 ext. 721