Here's some more information

Here is a link that might be useful: uc davis on cottony cushion scale

thanks. i read that right before i posted. i guess i'm going to try the pyrethrin (not sure how to spell)

bmh, I would not use oils during the hot summer months.
If you cannot obtain control with pyrethrin, I would spray with Orthene. Orthene is unbelievably effective against scale. please note however it will also kill beneficial insects, so try to limit the spray just to the infested bush and avoid spraying surrounding areas. left untreated, scale can and will multiply and suck the life right out of your plant.