Melrose chamber honors businesses

The Melrose Chamber of Commerce banquet held Monday night in Melrose was accompanied by 1940s-era music and a hearty helping of roast beef and potatoes.

And some in attendance walked away with annual awards:

Business of the year went to Antiques Etc., owned and operated by Melrose resident Norma Ashley. She opened her antiques store in August and sells elegant glassware and other unique items. She even rents space to other sellers and allows the Melrose Chamber of Commerce to distribute information to people passing through.

“It makes me feel real honored that they chose me,” Ashley said.

A special recognition award was presented to Dickie Roybal, assistant athletic director and coach of Melrose High’s football team. Roybal arrived in Melrose in 1997, and since then has amassed a 70-19 record in football, taking the district championship four times, making it to the state semi-finals six out of eight years and winning the state championship twice, said Melrose Chamber of Commerce director James Townson.

A special recognition award was presented to C.C. Pyle, who is wrapping up five years of service in the Melrose community as chief of police.

The chamber workhorse award and the citizen of the year award went to Melrose Chamber president Keith “Taz” McAlister. Melrose City Councilor Lance Pyle said McAlister has been very active in the community and helped the chamber to have a good year.