The Towson Business Association has recognized a number of individuals for excellence in business achievement during the past year:

> Tony Giorgio, assistant manager for Towson's Heritage Honda, who served as vice president before he died unexpectedly in May, for "unchallenged devotion to TBA."

"Tony could always be counted on ,whether it was attending meetings or just helping at one of our many functions," said TBA Executive Director Suzan Doordan. "But it was his pleasant, caring manner and his sense of humor which endeared him to us."

> Jack Anderson, an accountant from Rowles & Co. and a former TBA president who is retiring from the board this year, "for being the absolute rock of the organization," according to Doordan.

Involved in TBA for more than a decade, he has chaired the committee that awards scholarships and volunteered as a festival block captain for many years, according to Doordan, who said he has been "criticized" for being too polite.

> Larry Taubman, of Taubman Properties, which owns Dulaney Plaza, for the outstanding appearance of the newly renovated center.

The appearance awards are designed to encourage landowners and businesses in the commercial district to renovate and restore buildings in the core area, according to Doordan.

> Keith and Cindy Johnson, owners of All About Me Salon and Day Spa on Chesapeake Avenue, for the outstanding appearance of a small business.

Major improvements were made to the facade of the former stationery store, "but it's the fact that the shop exudes warmth and vitality through its large beautiful windows" that earned it the award, said Doordan. "It's precisely the kind of small business Towson needs in its revitalization program."

> Samantha Sheridan, who until recently was an investment and annuity specialist for Lincoln Financial Advisors Group, as TBA member of the year.

"Samantha has been an energetic and enthusiastic volunteer. Ask her for a little bit of help and she always gives more than requested," said Doordan. "She has dedicated much of her time and energy to assure that TBA flourishes."

> Steve Cupid, an accountant from KAWG&F, as board member of the year. "Steve has computerized all our finances," said Doordan. "He has put in 80 to 90 hours helping me get this organized. We worked a lot of Saturdays to get the job done.

"Steve has brought the TBA into the 21st century."

> Tom Washburn, owner of Moxley's Ice Cream, for time and energy devoted to Towson as president of the board of directors for the last year. Washburn took office after longtime executive director Susan DiLonardo retired and Doordan took her place.

"He led the transition seamlessly," said Doordan. "He was perceptive enough to know when to be a decision maker and when to step back and rely on staff to make the decisions. ... He has been a beacon of light."

"TBA is certainly appreciative of all the businesses that understand how beneficial it is for their employees to volunteer for any non-profit," said Doordan. "They are providing a wonderful community gift."