Howard R Levine

Howard R. Levine has served as a director since 1997 and is our Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer. He was employed by Family Dollar in various capacities in the Merchandising Department from 1981-1987, including employment as Senior Vice President-Merchandising and Advertising. From 1988 to 1992, Mr. Levine was President of Best Price Clothing Stores, Inc., a chain of ladies' apparel stores. From 1992 to April 1996, he was self-employed as an investment manager. He rejoined Family Dollar in April 1996, and was elected Vice President-General Merchandise Manager: Softlines in April 1996, Senior Vice President-Merchandising and Advertising in September 1996, President and Chief Operating Officer in April 1997, Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") in August 1998, and Chairman of the Board in January 2003. Mr. Levine is the son of Leon Levine, the former Chairman of the Board and founder of Family Dollar, who retired in January 2003.