Military Spotlight: Meet Girl Scout Junior Flossie!
Girl Scout Junior Florence, better known as Flossie, is a fifth grader in York County and has been an active member of Troop 1205 since she joined the troop in first grade as a Girl Scout Daisy. Her mom, Kristen, was a Girl Scout Brownie in her youth and recalls the fun she had. “My parents had a busy schedule, and we moved several times when I was a child,” she said. “I remember loving it and still remember my leader’s name (‘Fo’ — which is one of Flossie’s other nicknames). That was in the early ‘90s in New Jersey. I knew even before I had kids, and even through my own experience in Girl Scouts was brief, that I wanted all my kids to have the scouting experience.”
Kristen first became a volunteer when her older children joined Girl Scouts. She took on roles as troop leader and cookie mom. When the girls lost interest, she drifted away as well; until one day, while watching the movie Vivo, Flossie asked, “Why am I not a Girl Scout?” That sparked a conversation and Kristen signed her up.
“We are a military family, so having something consistent to be part of at each base is a huge benefit,” Kristen said. “But more importantly, we share the values of Girl Scouting and how it promotes self-confidence and citizenship.” Flossie has earned many badges, including subjects like citizenship, and others aligned with her interest in the arts and drama. She loves performing and is comfortable on stage with a microphone in her hand.
“The whole family loves music,” Kristen said. “Flossie’s dad was born in Manila and grew up in a household where karaoke and music were part of every family gathering.” Kristen’s son, Griffin, is a pianist and her oldest daughter, Vienna, plays the clarinet. From an early age, Flossie demonstrated talent and would take every opportunity to sing in front of audiences. She’s studied piano, had voice lessons and attended the Broadway Stars camp offered by CenterStage Academy of Performing Arts. She’s been in twelve different musical theater productions through CenterStage, and has been invited to sing at holiday parades and celebrations, including singing the national anthem as part of the opening flag ceremony for the Cookie Mystery play performed at Camp Skimino. This fall, she will set foot on a bigger stage at Busch Gardens, playing Tiny Tim for the holiday season.
“She was thrilled to be invited to audition,” Kristen said. “They chose children who had talent and could also balance schoolwork. Flossie had demonstrated that through multiple performances she had done, maintaining high grades and coping with a busy schedule.”
Flossie will continue participating in Girl Scouts, making sure there is time for friends. She loves trying new things with troop buddies, going camping and being involved in making a difference in the community. This little star is shining bright! You can be sure to see Flossie performing the national anthem at future Girl Scout events!
