Byram Girl Scout honored as ‘kid who rocks'

Byram - Angela Gargano, Byram Senior Girl Scout, was one of 20 young people honored by radio station WDHA (105.5) at the first “Kids Who Rock” awards dinner held at the Wayne Manor on Jan. 12. Gargano won the award for her efforts in planning and implementing the first pet micro-chipping clinic in Sussex County in May 2005. She was presented with a star-shaped trophy, a season pass to Great Adventure, gift cards to Blockbuster video and Borders bookstore, and several other donated gifts. “This event recognizes the incredible contributions of our community’s kids,” said station manager Nancy McKinley. “Although we frequently hear many negative stories involving kids, we know that every day kids are doing outstanding things to inspire and help others,” she continued. “The awards dinner is a way to thank the kids for taking the initiative to improve our community and help their neighbors.” Many radio personalities attended the event, including Curtis Kay. A comedian entertained the 200-plus audience. A silent auction was held, with proceeds benefiting the Special Olympics of N.J. Gargano is a sophomore at Lenape Valley High School and a Senior Girl Scout working towards the Girl Scout Gold Award. Together with the Byram Animal Rescue Kindness Squad she gathered volunteers and supplies in order to conduct the micro-chip clinic at cost to pet owners. The micro-chips were inserted by Dr. Karen Dashfield, a veterinarian who volunteered her time. Over 60 pets were micro-chipped at the one-day event. Several weeks later another clinic took place in Fredon with similar results. Gargano said she would like to conduct clinics in the near future at different locations in Sussex County. She is currently working on several proposals to submit to the Girl Scout Council for approval.