OUT OF FAVOR
The guys in Washington know what they want from business, and often, it’s not opinions, opposition or economic reason. by Bill Barnhart

BUY AMERICAN AND THE STIMULUS FOLLIES
Buy American sounds great, like apple pie. But in the real world, we’re learning all over again that it doesn’t work very well. by Steve Lawrence

TOO DOWDY TO BEHOLD
Why is it that so many politicians talk about the importance of manufacturing during election years, yet beneficial policy changes are rare? by Steven B. Weiner

WEB EXTRA
Aluminum: The year in review

Publisher’s Note

WHAT WE HAVE BUILT IN A CENTURY
by M. Robert Weidner, III, publisher

Under the Radar

MEET YES, TRAVEL NO
The returns from travel are large and well known. Yet the metals industry is doing less of it anyway. by Jenn Danko

Shelf Life

LOOKING BACK...AND AHEAD
Forward reviews books on business, economics and trade.
by Rebecca Rolfes

End Market

THE CRUDE OUTLOOK
How are the oil markets affecting the metals industry? by John Kingston

Guest Column

INDUSTRY & GOVERNMENT: SOME REALITIES OF TODAY'S WORLD
by Ralph Gomory