Mellons recognized for selfless acts

Being in the spotlight is not why the Mellons give of their time and resources, but making the community a better place is. 
On April 21, Chuck and Darlene Mellon were recognized for their selfless efforts as they were named the Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce H.J. Halleck Award winners this year. 
“They complement each other as a husband and wife team. They both take on different roles to help our community but the goal is the same: to make the community we live in a better place,” said Marilyn Bernal, who nominated the couple for the Halleck Award. 
As part of the annual Halleck Award program, Dan Frain reminded the audience of how the chamber started and why the H.J. Halleck Award was established in 1979. He said it was a way of saying thank you.  
He also named the numerous recipients of the Halleck award and paused for a moment of silence for those who have passed. 
Bernal said about a year ago, she thought of two people who deserved the Halleck Award. She knew the award was presented in the spring and decided she would nominate the Mellons for the award. She had a day to complete the application process because of the deadline, but that wasn’t a concern for her. 
She said they make the community better by helping those in need while also being leaders in their church and other organizations. 
Bernal said Darlene volunteers to find information to make Francesville a better place to live. 
Chuck has also served and serves on several different organizations. He is the former West Central School Corporation Superintendent. 
The two can be seen cleaning up after the Francesville Fall Festival or talking a stroll around town picking up trash. They have both been actively involved in maintaining the Francesville gazebo. 
When it was time for Chuck and Darlene to speak, Chuck took the lead. 
He said Darlene has become very passionate about the small town of Francesville and the county.
Chuck said teamwork equals accomplishments. He suggested that all elected officials need to be working together for a cause. “To make a difference, it has to be a constant effort.” 
Chuck thanked the chamber for the evening and the Halleck Award selection committee. He also thanked Bernal for her nomination and kind words. 
Along with the Mellons being honored, Della Wall was recognized for her business, Della Wall Tax Preparation. She has been in business for 51 years. Heater said the organization is “so proud” of her. 
Wall’s granddaughter, Janelle Thomas, spoke kind words of Wall. Thomas helped with her grandma’s business for two tax seasons. 
Beth McClure also spoke about Wall. She said to know Wall is to respect and admire her.