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End of an Era

TO WORK at any position for 35 years, two things must be in place. First, you must be good at what you do. Secondly, you must enjoy it as well.

Tonight marks the end of a most impressive run for Richard Melanko.

When Shadyside Village Council meets at 7 p.m. it will mark the first time in three-and-a-half decades where Melanko will not be cast in the role of law director.

Thomas Rynarz has been voted in by council members to succeed the Shadyside icon in that role. Melanko leaves some huge shoes to fill.

The 1967 Shadyside High graduate is a case study in giving back to your community.

He was elected law director in 1976. Melanko’s tenure has spanned seven U.S. presidents, six Ohio governors and seven Shadyside mayors. That is what we call an impressive tour of duty.

During that time, Melanko carried out his duties with unwavering vigilance and superb expertise. He sought no personal glory.

His legal career in Tigertown exemplified total dedication, attending nearly 1,000 village council meetings, crafting 700 ordinances and writing another 300 resolutions.

We view that as both rewarding and fulfilling, as he was the model of reliability.

The Ohio State University Law School graduate has earned the respect and praise from those he has served. A proclamation passed in conjunction with his resignation noted he brought, “wisdom, leadership, human compassion and concern for people.”

Moreover, Mayor Bob Newhart said, “Your 35 years of service has enhanced and improved the Village of Shadyside.”

We agree on both counts.

We salute Richard Melanko. His extraordinary commitment to his hometown is truly remarkable and may never be equalled.

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