Girl Scouts improving Old Wharf Park

By Walter J. O’Neill, Jr.

Oceanport — Known as the world’s preeminent organization for young girls, Girl Scouts of the USA has been undergoing unprecedented changes. As the organization aligns its vision and focus to meet the needs girls today, a group of Scouts in the borough is hoping to meet the needs of its community. 
One of the main goals of Girl Scouts is to build character and develop skills in the young ladies that will lead to real world success. Qualities that they hope to instill in their membership are leadership, social conscience, conviction, and self-worth. Since 1950, more than 3 million girls and adults in the United States have been a part of the movement, and worldwide over 10 million girls in 145 countries are actively involved.
Lauren and Brooke Harrigan, along with Christine McArdle of Oceanport Troop 1805, are all working on their Silver Award. The project they chose is revitalizing Old Wharf Park on East Main Street. The girls are assisted by Becky Crochet and Gabby Vaccaro, also members of the troop.
The Scouts are planning on resurfacing the bocce ball courts, cleaning up the landscaping, and installing some type of deterrent attempting to stop the geese from gathering at the park.
Sheila Harrigan and Donna McArdle are the adult Scout leaders. They estimate the girls should have their silver project completed in the early fall. The girls want to make the park a fun place for the seniors of the community to enjoy.