Ulster County Legislators Carl Belfiglio and Mary Wawro had the distinguished honor to present Ulster County Gold Girl Scouts, Cipriana Costello and Kailey Myer, with Prides of Ulster County at the 2014 Girl Scout Heart of the Hudson’s 2013 Gold Award Ceremony on Saturday, March 8, 2014 in Dobbs Ferry, New York.

The Gold Award is the highest award presented to a Girl Scout and celebrates the completion of a community service project that demonstrates leadership, responsibility, and the commitment to making the world a better place for all people.

Ms. Costello, a resident in Legislator Belfiglio’s district, addressed the abundance of stray cats through educational outreach events to raise awareness about the importance of spaying and neutering animals. She also hosted multiple fundraisers to pay for the spaying and neutering of multiple local animals.

“The commitment to public service demonstrated by these two bright young women is awe inspiring and I was humbled and very proud to represent Cipriana Costello on behalf of the Legislature”, stated Legislator Belfiglio after the ceremony.

Ms. Myer, a family friend and district resident of Legislator Wawro, addressed the issue of hunger for her Gold Award project by starting a fruit and vegetable garden to provide fresh, healthy food for those in need in her community. She partnered with the Family of Woodstock and a local soup kitchen to get her produce to those who needed it most.

Legislator Wawro commented, “attending the Girl Scout Gold Award brought back many fond memories of the time I spent as a Girl Scout. Watching this year’s Gold award recipients receive their Gold pin and hearing about the projects which earned them the award, brought to my mind how Girl Scouts truly promotes leadership and community service. The project that Kay chose took tremendous time and dedication. Fresh produce is always a welcome addition to our food pantries. Congratulations to Kaylie and her family for a job well done! Ulster County is very proud of you and I am eager to see what other accomplishments await you in the future.”

Legislator Belfiglio concluded, “the accomplishments of these two young Ulster County women inspires all to seek excellence to do more for our community. The results of their success is a better tomorrow for Ulster County and its citizens, today.