The International Casual Furnishings Association (ICFA) has announced that Kristine Schultz-Hutchinson of Patios Plus (Rancho Mirage, California) has been named chair of the organization’s Retail Council for 2014. ICFA membership includes all sectors of the casual-furnishings industry: retailers, manufacturers, suppliers, sales representatives, designers, and media associates. The Retail Council provides leadership for programming and services designed to meet the needs of the industry’s retail stores. Mary Beth Singleton of Tropic Aire Patio Gallery (West Columbia, South Carolina) will serve as vice chair of the council in 2014.

New members joining the council in 2014 are Brad Schweig of Sunnyland Furniture (Dallas, Texas); David Jacobs of Jacobs Upholstery and Patio (Spokane Valley, Washington); Debs Pedigo of The Fire House Casual Living Store (Charlotte, North Carolina); Brian Lawrence of Emigh’s Casual Living (Sacramento, California); Jessica Salisbury of Village Green (Rockford, Illinois); and Tom Vielbig of Backyard Living (Ridgewood, New Jersey). Continuing their service on the council are Bruce Aronson of Pool & Patio Center (Metairie, Louisiana); Cathy Galbreath of ABSCO Fireplace & Patio (Birmingham, Alabama); Garrett Wallace of Yard Art Patio & Fireplace (Irving, Texas); Bruce Erickson of Williams All Seasons (Highland Park, Illinois); Gail Williams of Sunshine Furniture (Vero Beach, Florida); Paul DeMerlis of The Sign of the Skier (Toronto, Ontario); and Mary Fruehauf of Fruehauf ’s Patio & Garden (Boulder, Colorado).