The Parable Group recently recognized four franchise stores for outstanding service during the company's annual meeting, held last month prior to the International Christian Retail Show in Denver.

Honored with the Young Store Award were Dan and Carolyn Bielak, owners of Lemstone Parable Christian Store in Grand Blanc, Mich. Since opening their store in late 2006, Carolyn has guided the shop to significant sales growth each year, Parable officials said.

Mark Schoepke, owner of Parable Christian Store in Springfield, Ore., was recognized with the Sales Growth Award, as his shop has had sustained strong growth in the last 17 months. In addition to Schoepke's two Parable franchise stores, he operates seven outlet stores in western Oregon.

Recognized in the small store category for Store of the Year were Richard and Deborah Cretaro, owners of The Living Word Parable Christian Store in Latham, N.Y.

Arrowhead Parable Christian Store in Johnson City, N.Y., was honored with the Store of the Year Award in the large store category. Parable Franchise Coach Steve Adams said Arrowhead "has continually been a strong representative of excellence in retailing for many years.

"This past year in particular, they have excelled in merchandising, inventory management and community relationships," he added. "They also hosted four Parable franchise stores in the Upper New York area for a day-long conference that benefited and encouraged all of them."

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