Brad Grist, Chairman of the Board of Greater East Dallas Chamber of Commerce (GEDCC), delivered Lifetime Member awards to three longtime and dedicated members. This award is presented to individuals who have exhibited exemplary service to the East Dallas Chamber and to the East Dallas community. The three recognized members are Roger Perry, Darlene Ellison, and Fred Welsh.

Roger Perry has been a long time Chamber member and was the first Chairman of the Board of Directors of the GEDCC to serve three consecutive years in 2011-2013.

Darlene Ellison was a Chamber member over 20 years ago and served as Chairman for three years 2014, 2015 and again in 2018. Her father Bud Doxey was also a Chairman for three years from 1993-1995. They are the only father-daughter set who have both served as Chair.

Fred Welsh has served in virtually every capacity for the Chamber in his many years as a member and received the Chamber’s Chairman's Award in 2017 for his service. His love for East Dallas is contagious and he is involved with numerous other local community organizations.