Jillian Gaydos Completes Silver Award Project
Submitted by Allison Kempe
For the past year, Long Hill Girl Scout Cadette from Troop 5050, Jillian Gaydos, has been planning and executing the building of platforms for tents to “bring camping back to Hick’s Tract”, since so many scouts camped there prior to the destruction caused by Superstorm Sandy back in 2012.
The silver award is the highest award a Girl Scout Cadette can earn, requiring a minimum of 40-50 hours of work. The next award is the gold award pursued by Girl Scout Seniors or Ambassadors, which requires 100 hours for their project.
Jillian worked with Lisa Scanlon, director of LHT recreation, and then obtained permission from the LHT Township Committee. She raised funds for project materials by baking Father’s Day brownies in the community and hosting a virtual music concert via Facebook Live, with a cameo appearance by Jillian playing her Sax to “Mustang Sally”.
The project included the design and build of two 12×12 platforms in the pine grove section of Hick’s Tract, near the fire ring. The platforms fit standard 6 person tents and have hooks to secure rainfly and anchor the tent.
The platforms are named “Samoa” (Jillian’s favorite Girl Scout cookie) and “Trefoil”, which means “three leaves”. Each leaf stands for a part of the Girl Scout Promise. The eagle and shield within the trefoil signify that Girl Scouts stand ready to serve their country.
The name signs were crafted and donated by LHT resident and family friend, Jeremy Herring. His wood design company can be found on Instagram at “stars_and_stripes_by_j”.
The ribbon cutting ceremony was held on November 20 and was attended by Lisa Scanlon and Long Hill committee member Matthew Dorsi.
Jillian would like to thank everyone who supported her through donations, advice and encouragement.
