Creative Habitat at Ben Franklin Co-Owner Appointed to Sierra Pacific Crafts Board of Directors

Mark Dowling, co-owner of Creative Habitat at Ben Franklin, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of Sierra Pacific Crafts (SPC) in Woodburn, Oregon. Dowlings appointment is the first Board appointment of any store owner east of the Mississippi.
Im extremely proud of my brother, co-owner Michael Dowling stated, Mark has worked very hard with the Sierra Pacific Crafts people to become an integral and important part of SPC. This is good for Mark, and great for Creative Habitat and its customers.
Sierra Pacific Crafts is led by a nine-member Board of Directors, composed of store owners. Mark Dowling was appointed to a three-year term in March of 2004. Mark is a member of the Technology Committee, as well as Secretary of the Board.
SPC is a strong organization of independent store owners with a sharing philosophy, explained Mark. As the first store from the eastern U.S., Creative Habitat has an opportunity to learn from other independent craft stores, particularly from the west, as well as to influence crafts trends across the country.
Originally called Ben Franklin, the Dowlings have co-owned the store since 1991. Six years ago, the Ben Franklin parent company went into bankruptcy, leaving the store with no product supplier. That is when the Sierra Pacific Crafts connection began.
Sierra Pacific Crafts is a cooperative organization of successful independently owned craft stores located throughout the United States. The organization began with two stores and now boasts a 60-store membership. SPC offers ongoing marketing programs, staff educational programs and exclusive import and domestic buying opportunities, along with a plethora of other membership benefits.
SPCs goal is to make all our stores a success in the craft and home décor business, Mark explained. Thanks to our connection with SPC, Creative Habitat has been ahead of the latest craft trends available today. A benefit we pass on to our customers.
Creative Habitat at Ben Franklin, formerly Ben Franklin, has been owned and operated by Mark and Michael Dowling since 1991. Creative Habitat is an independent store in the Burlington community, continuing in the family tradition of quality home design, crafts, and framing. Creative Habitat at Ben Franklin is located on Shelburne Road in South Burlington, telephone 802-862-0646. You may also visit them on the web at: www.creativehabitatvt.com.