THE DUKE: This issue of Floor Covering News, for the most part, is a tribute to Rite Rug, the multi-store specialty chain of Columbus, Ohio, that is celebrating its 75th anniversary. Today, the company is headed by Michael Goldberg, president and CEO. But what brought back a rush of reminiscences were thoughts of... more

I first met Michael Goldberg about seven years ago. I had been working for another industry publication, and I knew him only as the owner of a large, multi-store floor covering retailer in Columbus, Ohio, called Rite Rug. In the past I would call on him... more

GREAT NEWS: There’s a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel and it may not be an oncoming train. I’m referring to a story I read last week headlined “Most economists see recession end in ’09.” The article began, “More than 90% of economists predict the recession will end this year, although the recovery is likely to be... more

It may sound cliché, but the best retailers always seem to find bright spots even in the toughest of times. This point was validated at the recent National Floorcovering Alliance convention in Cabo.

Whether it’s a particular aspect of the business or a specific event, the common thread is these dealers are not standing still. In fact, many are downright aggressive. Take Pierce Flooring & Design with seven stores throughout Montana... more

OMEN: Perhaps the economic crisis is improving or it could be an anomaly, but the Labor Department reported new applications for jobless benefits plunged to 601,000 last week, the lowest level in 14 weeks. That could be a sign the massive wave of layoffs has peaked. Economists had expected... more

It was an impressive array of talent. No, not “American Idol” or “Dancing With the Stars.” I’m referring to the many executives who came to New York on May 7 for FCNews’ Award of Excellence dinner. It was truly an honor having so many people take the time out of their busy schedules and expense out of their... more

GOOD NEWS: Economists rely on various economic indicators in order to gain an enhanced view of the health of the economy. One such road sign is the measure of consumer confidence, which surprised most of the business community as it rocketed past economists’ forecasts in April to its... more

“You’re not still going to Mexico, are you?”... more

GOOD SIGNS: I don’t think the recession is over or that it has bottomed out, but I am encouraged by some reports that have been surfacing in recent days. The housing market is showing some improvement, not a giant step but improvement; consumer confidence has improved slightly and spending has... more

Just about a third of 2009 finds itself in our rearview mirror. The good news is each passing day brings us closer to the inevitable rebound. When it actually arrives is about as predictable as the stock market, but take solace in the fact we all knew this year would be tough and we’ve already... more