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It took two and a half years, but the five members of Girl Scout Cadet Troop 2348, of Valley Stream, earned their Silver Awards. Silver Awards are the highest honor a scout can receive at the cadet level.
The Silver Award recipients are Felicia Giunta, Justina Kolczniski, Victoria Somella, Kaitlyn Walsh and Amanda Vagnone. With the guidance of their troop leaders, Kathy Vagnone and Ann Marie Giunta, the girls completed three "interest" projects, earned their Career Exploration Badge, completed the requirements to receive Leadership awards and successfully participated in the Girl Scout Challenge.
Only after finishing those prerequisites were the cadets able to begin the 30-hour service project that would culminate with the Silver Award ceremony, held at South High School Dec. 12.
Over the summer, the girls spent one day each week volunteering for St. Mary's Children and Family Services in Syosset. The girls organized a gymnastics night for the children of St. Mary's; they collected, delivered and sorted food, clothing, toys and books for St. Mary's; and volunteered to work during St. Mary's Care and Share Day in August.
Even though their Silver Awards have been bestowed, the girls still plan to volunteer for St. Mary's. On Dec. 30, the cadets will help out at St. Mary's holiday party.
In a special tribute, three long time Girl Scout volunteers were honored for their many years of service. Rosemary Cannon, Bert Delamater and Madeline Goetz have a combined total of 134 years invested in the Girl Scouts.
