U.S. Hardware Industry Association

As a veteran of the Hardware Industry (nuts and bolts, not computers and hard drives) for many years, I am constantly striving to learn more and increase my value to my active and prospective client friends. Recently, I came across the "U.S. Hardware Industry Association" with the URL of www.associationhardware.com . This was a new one to me, so I explored the site. It appears to be nothing more than a gimmick to get you to join with some supposed travel benefits or price discounts but no substance that I could find.

I would be interested in finding out if anyone out there knows anything about this organization, especially since they also seem to be the association for a large number of other industries?

Black & Decker to acquire Pentair Tool Group

BIG NEWS in the Hardware Industry. Toolmaker Black & Decker currently manufactures power tools under the BLACK & DECKER label as well as the DEWALT name is about to acquire the Pentair Tool Group that includes PORTER-CABLE, DELTA and DEVILBISS.  The acquisition of Porter-Cable adds to B&D's stable of corded and battery powered hand tools. Delta brings a whole stable of new stationary products and DeVilbiss  makes them a leader in the air tool business which is a whole new category for B&D.

Happy Independence Day

As we all get ready for the long weekend, I think it is pretty amazing that we are also watching the first few days of freedom for a country that has for so long been under the thumb of a tyrant who is now coming to justice. Our founding fathers were brilliant in their understanding of man's need for freedom. I am absolutely convinced that the need for freedom is one of those universal truths.
Michael Moore can rant all he wants, as he is living proof of how great this country is that it will allow him the freedom to bash the very country that provides him with the opportunity. Michael appears to hate America while he hides behind the freedom that is America, I choose to love America and am so very proud of our freedom and what has been accomplished here. I pray for the people of Iraq as well as other countries where people are yet to be freed. I pray that freedom comes quickly and that they will gather the mantel of responsibility and demonstrate the importance of freeing their brothers and sisters all around the world. Freedom is the key to Peace on Earth and is absolutely required if we as individuals are ever to achieve our true potential.
God Bless America!