Lutheran Services for the Aging has announced its Loyal Service Award winners for 2008.
The awards are presented annually to five employees, nominated by their peers from a labor pool of nearly 1,000 workers, who exemplify the mission and vision of the Salisbury-based health-care organization.
Local honorees include Diane Torrence, Salisbury; Paula Hill, Rockwell; and Cindy Hudson, Albemarle.
An employee of Trinity Oaks Retirement Community, Torrence began her career in housekeeping in 1999. Now director of Environmental Services, she is widely regarded for her leadership, professionalism and devotion to the residents of the Salisbury continuing care retirement community.
Hill is a certified nursing assistant at Abundant Living Adult Day Services. She began her career in nursing in 2001 and has worked for the Salisbury adult day care program since 2005. Peers describe Hill as an individual of extraordinary compassion and dedication in her service to the participants and families of Abundant Living.
Hudson is a licensed practical nurse and first shift supervisor for Lutheran Home-Albemarle. An employee since 1991, she has long been recognized for her positive attitude, attention to detail and dedication to the nursing home’s residents.
Award winners were honored by the LSA Board of Trustees at a luncheon meeting in June.
Landis antique shop
LANDIS ó After a lifetime interest in and gathering of antiques and collectibles, Betty Hartsell has fulfilled her dream of opening a shop to showcase and sell them.
She and husband Dale have opened Perry’s Olde Shoppe at 705 N. Main St. Hours are 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays.
Hartsell worked 45 years in mills and in offices, the last 15 years as an administrative assistant to the Biology Department at Davidson College. She retired from Davidson last year and began her dream career.
First Bank promotion
KANNAPOLIS ó Janice Gordon Nash has been promoted to branch officer at First Bank’s Kannapolis location. Nash, formerly head teller, has more than 30 years of banking experience.
Nash grew up in Concord and attended Northwest High School. She currently lives in Landis with husband Ricky Lee, and they have two children, Ricky Lee Jr. and Toni Phillips. She is a member of the Highest Praise Family Worship Center.
Almeida chairs board
Tony Almeida of Salisbury will become chair of the Charlotte Regional Partnership board of directors for the 2008-2009 fiscal year that began July 1.
Almeida is vice president of business relations and economic development with Duke Energy Carolinas.
The nonprofit, public/private economic development organization markets the 16-county, two-state Charlotte region. It leverages regional resources to create opportunities for long-term growth, job creation and investment in Charlotte USA. Additional information is at www.charlotteusa.com.

Linda Braswell compiles the Rowan Roundup of companies, organizations and individuals. You can submit information about new businesses, honors and management promotions to her at the Salisbury Post, P.O. Box 4639, Salisbury, NC 28145-4639; fax it to 704-639-0003; or e-mail lbraswell@salisburypost.com. Please include a daytime phone number.