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07/10/2025 Bayside Editorial: Good citizens’ work deserves recognition

Good citizens’ work deserves recognition

Instead of using this space to examine the actions of local  governing bodies, or try to explain some involved topic, this week we will recognize the good works of a pair of citizens.

Although their work is unrelated and is taking place in different communities, Parker Gill of Berlin Boy Scout Troop 261 and Missy Carder of Ocean Pines have something in common.

They are giving their time to improve their communities and the lives of people who live in them.

In Carder’s case, her involvement with Big Brothers and Big Sisters of the Eastern Shore has led her to help a little girl in Ocean Pines find her way in life. That’s a huge responsibility, but it is one that Carder has assumed as she spends one-on-one time with her “little sister.”

Not that she was seeking the attention, but Carder was recognized by the Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors last month, when it presented her with its Good Neighbor Award.

Meanwhile, in Berlin, Gill has been organizing his Eagle Scout project, which entails replacing two bridges in Stephen Decatur Park. He will not be doing the work alone but will enlist the help of other members of his troop.

That’s all part of the Eagle Scout project process, which, really, is about helping to instill in scouts the leadership qualities that will help them and others throughout their adult lives. These projects not only require scouts to find a way to contribute to the community, but they also must plan, organize and lead the effort.

Considering that only about 4% of all members of the Boy Scouts of America earn the rank of Eagle Scout, Gill’s project is about more than attaining scouting’s highest rank, it’s also about embracing and employing the values that make for a first-class citizen.

Ocean Pines and Berlin are fortunate to have people like Carder and Gill, so it’s only fitting that they be held up as examples of how good people can make a difference. Because of that, Missy Carder and Parker Gill, we salute you.