Photo courtesy of Carol Yates, Community Liaison person for County Supervisor Gayle Uilkema, District 2

At the invitation of Gayle B. Uilkema, Chair of the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, Lafayette Girl Scout Troop 31017 worked toward completing badge requirements by attending a council meeting, interviewing a law enforcement official, and researching careers in law enforcement with the interviews of a judge, undersheriff, and a supervisor.

They had a full morning that began with a visit to the offices of Supervisor Uilkema who spoke with them briefly in her office before ushering them into the Board Chambers to have the experience of sitting up on the dais where the five supervisors would shortly sit.

Then the girls were met by Undersheriff, Mike Casten to discuss topics of their interest such as cyber safety. They also got some career tips from Fire Chief Louder as he was entering the board chamber. As the meeting was opened, the Scouts performed the Flag Ceremony and then observed a portion of the meeting in session.

Next on the program that had been planned by Supervisor Uilkema, was a visit to the nearby courthouse to meet Judge Mary Ann O'Malley. The girls' interest continually increased as they asked more and more questions - we may see future leaders emerge from these experiences and interviews of the day.