Occupation: “Vice President of Sales and Marketing/Gloster.”

Special Interests/Hobbies: “Family time is a must. I love tropical travel adventures that include downtime for a great read (a legal thriller).”

Problems/Issues Facing the Patio Furnishings Industry: “Foot traffic is often mentioned during my travels. Dealers are still deciphering how to work with an online presence and yet increase foot traffic into their stores.

“Manufacturers are contending with the need to be more innovative, designing product that is space-saving and multifunctional.”

Key Trends in the Patio Industry Today: “Products that tell a story, such as multifunctional, modular seating and sustainability.”

Best Ways for Retailers to Combat Internet Sales: “The best way is to embrace online and mobile technology in a manner that supports their business and its vision; at the very least, they must have a great, interactive website.

They should push their boundaries by creating technology resources within their stores. They must draw the consumer in and give them a techno-mobile reason to enjoy shopping within the store.”

Years Reading Hearth & Home: “Off and on for years, but only in the last two years with a more focused eye.”

Reasons for Reading Hearth & Home: “I like to know who is doing what. The published results of its surveys and studies show that it is a serious magazine. Lastly, I am still a consumer who enjoys the ads!”