Casual Living - March 1, 2009

While it’s true most new businesses fail within the first five years, some start so strong that beating the odds is pretty much a sure bet. New England Patio & Hearth owners Kurt Wabrek and Jeff Heitmann weren’t exactly novices when they opened their first location in September 2006 in Wethersfield, Conn.

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• HOM acquires Seasonal Concepts
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• Fortunoff bankruptcy impacts casual vendors
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• March forecast brings better expectations

• Features
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• Design Decor: Growing despite tough economy
• Accessorize your grill
• Dan Shimek: Owner & President, The Outdoor GreatRoom Company
• Gas grills, outdoor kitchens top choices
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• Heat up: HPB Expo