A gauge of U.S. consumer sentiment slid to its lowest in almost a decade in March after hopes for a quick end to war in Iraq gave way to worries of an arduous conflict and the economy showed few signs of perking up.

The gross domestic product rose at an annual rate of 1.4 percent in the final three months of last year after advancing 4 percent in the third quarter, according to the U.S. Commerce Department.

Randy Gum once again will assume the roles of president and chief operating officer of Misco Shawnee effective Monday, March 31. James Gould, owner and current company president, will remain chairman of the board and CEO.

According to the Consumer Conference Board, U.S. consumer confidence declined for a fourth consecutive month in March.

Sales of existing homes fell 4.3 percent in February, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) reported, as the pace of transactions cooled from a record rate in January.

Mohawk Industries’ 2002 advertising campaign, which featured claw-footed tables, boot-kicking action figures and other inanimate objects magically coming to life to enjoy Mohawk carpet, was awarded the print campaign “Best of Show” in the first round of the American Advertising Awards.

Custom Building Products has approved FlexBond Premium Flexible Bonding Mortar for use over USG LEVELROCK Brand Floor Underlayments.

The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) announced the presentation of the GSA Evergreen Award to Mohawk Industries of Kennesaw, Ga.

InterfaceFLOR Inc., a new company created by Interface, Inc., has debuted high-style modular floorcovering made from Ingeo fiber.

The Flooring Industry Council of St. Louis and the St. Louis Concrete Council are sponsoring a Moisture in Concrete seminar, 6:30 to 9 p.m. May 7, at the St. Louis Frontenac Hilton Hotel.