This signals another promising year of continued momentum within the U.S. manufacturing economy as companies continue to recognize the benefits of investing in new machine tool technology to improve productivity.

We've had a good year in 2005, and are seeing very positive signs that it will be strong [in '06]. In talking to our members, I think there's a great deal of pride and optimism about the future of U.S. manufacturing. I'm even hearing stories of jobs coming back here from overseas.

It's too early to tell what happened here. That would be very speculative at this point, but certainly we will look into all aspects of it.

We're flattered that we were picked to display the boot, but it's too bad it didn't work.

If this fit someone, they would have to be 12 stories tall.