The Spring-Ford Girl Scouts hit the lanes at Limerick Bowl this past Saturday to kick off their 2011 cookie sale, troop spokesperson Dyanne Wark said today.

The annual bowling event included Daisy, Brownie, Junior and Cadet members of the troop.

Each member of the troop has a goal of selling 124 boxes of cookies in the sale, which begins January 20 and runs through March 6.

In addition to perennial favorites like "Thin Mints," "Shortbread," "Caramel DeLites," "Peanut Butter Sandwich," "Lemonades," and "Thanks a Lots," this year's cookie selection will include a new variety called the "Shout Out."

The troop describes the "Shout Out" as a "light, crisp Belgian style caramel
cookie."

Additionally, the "Thanks a Lot" will feature a new, low-waste packaging.

Wark pointed out that cookie prices have held steady, even as the Girl Scouts face higher expenses.

"Despite higher fuel costs and other factors, the Girl Scout cookies will still be $3.50 per box," Wark said.

Proceeds from the sale will be used for trips and activities selected by the troop members in conjunction with their leaders.

"Several girls at the bowling party mentioned their desire to go to Great Wolf Lodge," Wark said.

The Spring-Ford Girl Scouts have 598 members in Royersford, Spring City, Limerick, and Oaks.  They belong to the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania Council.

Wark called the Spring-Ford troop "a hugely successful service unit."

In addition to the cookie sale, Wark said the girls "have tons of activities and community service projects."

"There are many opportunities for the community to show their support for the local Girl Scouts. In April they collect formula, clothes, diapers and other baby necessities as part of the Baby Bundles program to distribute items to babies in need," Wark said.

Wark added that individual troops often take on community service projects "too numerous to mention."

Anyone interested in learning more about volunteering or becoming a
Girl Scout may contact the Girl Scouts at gsep.org or by calling 888-564-4657.