A New Look For Hickory Business.

Business Editors

HICKORY, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 4, 2003

Looking back at business in 2002, one may be reminded of the famous line from A Tale of Two Cities that begins ... "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times." It was a challenging year, to say the least, for everyone all around the world. No one seemed immune to the 2002's economic downturn. 2002 saw corporate scandals bring down some of our nation's largest businesses. Who would have thought a couple years ago that K-Mart would file for bankruptcy, or that Sears would no longer be the nation's number one retailer?

Businesses that just survived, when these and many others did not, had reason to celebrate. This celebrating is what one NC business is continuing to do in 2003. Catawba Furniture Mall, located in Hickory, NC, was no exception to the effects of the economic downturn of 2002. It was, fortunately, one who survived, and is excited about the look ahead in 2003.

This is a time of year when many of us "spring clean" and "re-do," and Catawba Furniture Mall has also done its share of spiffing up for 2003. New stores, including the largest Klaussner Home gallery in the World, New management, and New landscapes inside and out are only the beginning of the excitement. To spread this wealth of excitement to its community, Catawba Furniture Mall will host a "New Look" reception on March 14th from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. The reception will commemorate this "new look," celebrate the Hickory community, and spread the excitement to other area businesses that Catawba Furniture Mall is already experiencing.

The reception is free and open to the public. Enjoy complimentary wine and hors d'oeuvres while listening to live musical performances. Visit with furniture designer extraordinaire, David Zagaroli, and take a leisurely stroll through the new look of Catawba Furniture Mall. For more information please contact Catawba Furniture Mall at 828-324-9701, or visit www.catawbafurniture.com. Mall hours are Monday - Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

The Catawba Furniture Mall is owned and operated by Steve and Betty Ikerd (Ikerd Enterprises) recipients of the 2002 Faith in the Future award presented by the Catawba County Chamber of Commerce. As business has turned a corner of 2003, Mr. and Mrs. Ikerd will continue to keep the faith in their community. Join with them in the excitement 2003 is sure to bring.