You’ll notice that right below me here is Paul Bieber’s blog for the day, and it’s full of his usual, practical advice and helpful thoughts. Well, today our friend Paul could use some of your helpful thoughts and good wishes himself. He was operated on this morning for a recently diagnosed case of colon cancer and, by the time you read this, he should be beginning his road to recovery. If you know Paul, you know he is one of the most positive people on the face of the planet—a good businessman with a great family and strong faith. When I called him yesterday to tell him what I had… Read More »
The GlassBuild (GBA) show has existed, in some form or another, since the mid-’70s. Its name, focus and venues have changed and continue to evolve, but one thing is for sure: it’s a great place to see your industry colleagues and take a look at some of the newest products. In addition to catching up with friends and compatriots, it’s also a good “looking glass” into the future. Here are my top five trends from GBA: Automation Nation: The robotics seen in Europe for the past 10 years are finally making their way to the United States, particularly in the area of glass handling. Automated efficiencies will reduce the number of workers needed… Read More »

There’s a scene toward the end of the movie Footloose where the townspeople just can’t take it anymore. Their years of decorum and propriety collapse into a frenzy of pent up energy and action. Joyous dance explodes from every corner of the small town of Beaumont, Anywhere USA. Eyes are open, lives are changed, freedom reigns. Well, this week’s Glassbuild America show in Atlanta has such a wave of exploding energy that I swear I saw Kevin Bacon dancing in the aisles. The glass industry is back and the energetic flow of business being done was palpable. “If you are not making money in the glass industry right now, you… Read More »