cinnamon girl

It’s a chorus being echoed across the Midlands as Girl Scouts from the Mountains to Midlands council hold their annual cookie sale. But for hundreds of Scout troops that have set up shop at area storefronts, it’s not just about tradition, but closing the deal.

“We just have to be sociable. I just talk to random people to make the sale, and they actually talk back,” said Amber Dorsey.

Amber and others from Troop 977 in Columbia were stationed at the Gamecock Bi-Lo on Devine Street on Saturday. Theirs was among many spots where Scouts braved chilly temperatures to push the eight varieties of cookies being sold this year. And for members of Troop 977 it wasn’t a passive process.

“You have to ask them what they like,” troop member Alanina Spigner explained, adding she’s happy to offer suggestions to those who have no preference. “I would have to say Caramel deLights.”

Candice Johnson said one of the best sales techniques is friendliness, noting many people are already sold on the brand.

“They know that they like Girl Scout cookies,” she said.

Carol Edwards certainly knew what she liked. Troop members had barely made their pitch Saturday before the Columbia woman was sizing up her options.

“I was wondering where I was going to get some Girl Scout cookies this year,” said Edwards, whose two adult daughters once sold cookies. “I’m glad to see them doing this.”

Scout leaders believe the efforts that go into selling cookies each year help girls develop confidence and character.

“They learn about counting money, safety, teamwork,” said Marilyn Johnson, leader of Troop 977. “So they’re learning all the skills that they can take with them in life.”

Reesheda Hopkins will buy that thinking. The Columbia woman, who purchased several boxes from Troop 977 on Saturday, spent 13 years in the Scouting program and considers cookie sales an invaluable part of the experience.

“It’s going back to the old-time values, how to communicate,” Hopkins said. “It teaches them courage, because lot of girls used to be shy. They learn to approach people without having to be afraid.”

Those lessons appear to have taken hold with Troop 977. During a four-hour shift last week at an area Wal-Mart, troop