HIGH POINT, NORTH CAROLINA

The International Casual Furnishings Association has announced finalists for the 2013 Apollo Awards. The program recognizes retail excellence in the sales and marketing of outdoor furnishings.

Finalists must demonstrate outstanding accomplishments and a commitment to customer service. The ICFA membership will vote via an online ballot for a winner in each of two categories later this summer. Finalists will be honored and the winners announced at the ICFA Awards Gala on Sept. 19, 2013, during the International Casual Furniture & Accessories Market in Chicago. 
 
Finalists in the 2013 competition include:

Single Store Category
Kolo Collection, Atlanta, Georgia
Outdoor Elegance, La Verne, California
Seasons Four, Lexington, Massachusetts
Sunnyland Furniture, Dallas, Texas
Village Green, Rockford, Illinois

Multi-Store Category
ABSCO Fireplace & Patio, Birmingham, Alabama
Patios Plus, Rancho Mirage, California
Outside in Style, Austin, Texas
Stauffers of Kissel Hill, Lititz, Pennsylvania
Yard Art Patio & Fireplace, Irving, Texas

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA

From the Wells Fargo Economics Group

Four years in, consumers finally appear to be recognizing there is an economic recovery underway. The consumer confidence index rose a convincing 7.2 points to 76.2 in May, following a 7.1-point rise the previous month.

The overall consumer confidence index is now at its highest point since the recession ended four years ago; the recent improvement is notable in that it is evident in nearly every key component of the survey.