NICHE Magazine is national publication with a focus on fine American crafts. Publisher Wendy Rosen was delighted to recognize J.J. Cardinal's, a multi-year nominee for it's excellence and focus in presenting new and creative American crafts and works of art. "The American crafts and artistic community help keep our merchandise selection fresh and unique," says owner Louise Dawson.

NICHE magazine, the exclusive trade publication for retailers of fine American craft, will announce the winners at a ceremony in July during the Philadelphia Buyers Market of American Craft. "I am honored to recognize this year's nominees," noted Wendy Rosen, publisher of NICHE magazine.  "J.J. Cardinal's commitment to the American craft movement ensures the strength and growth of the arts and small businesses in communities throughout the country."

J.J. Cardinal's was also nominated in 2003. "We're thrilled and delighted with this honor again this year," says Louise Dawson, J.J. Cardinal's founder and owner. "We have made a point to expand our collection of American crafted goods and consciously have reduced the amount of imported items in our store; there's more than enough of that available in the marketplace. Our customers have responded to the delightful and creative work by a host of crafts people who's goods and work are now proudly displayed at J.J. Cardinal's."

[NICHE magazine is part of the Rosen Group - specialists in promoting fine American craft.]

[Appropriately, Al Serra Auto Plaza was selected for "Hometown Hero" award. More info: www.grandblancchamber.org]

Wagner explained the Woman's National Farm and Garden Association is one of the oldest women's organizations in the United States. Founded nationally in 1914, the organization has several chapters in virtually every state. It's objectives have always been to encourage women to cooperate in furthering a closer bond between rural and urban women and help in the development of international understanding and good will everywhere. "Much of the credit for the handsome appearance of our shop is due to Bruce Pollock & Associates, the original developers of this shopping center," said Mike Dawson of J.J. Cardinal's. "We like to think our products help bring the community a little closer to nature, and our staff does a great job maintaining our pond, plants, and seasonal displays."
[for more information about the organization: http://www.wnfga.org/]

"To maintain the fresh edge we seek at J. J. Cardinal's - always having new and interesting works depicting nature - it's so very essential to our success," says Louise Dawson, owner. "We respect the contributions the art community makes, and enjoy doing all we can to support emerging artists."

Mesweet's Bronze Award

"You have won the Bronze Award! I enjoyed surfing your site," says Eric Nielsen from Neovizion, "and I am sure everybody else will too."

A Nickname Is Born: "Bird Lady of Grand Blanc"

A Flint Journal article in July of 1993 made it official: Louise is "The Bird Lady of Grand Blanc." Prior to that publication, friends and customers jokingly referred to her as such. The newspaper article ensured the title would stick. Today, children in the grocery store or local restaurants loudly exclaim: "Look! There's the Bird Lady!" 

The complete article, along with a virtual time capsule of printed news accounts appear at "J.J. Cardinal In The News".

"...Louise is timeless," says an avid fan. "She looks younger today and
has more energy now than she had when she first opened her store."