Masco cabinetry sales fell in 2010, though lean manufacturing helped keep margins steady, even in the face of rising commodity prices.

Lumber pricing is on the move, as exports again began to grow in 2010. Vietnam surpassed Mexico to become the largest market for U.S. hardwood exports.

The wood-focused act signifies a milestone in conservation.

Wood-fired power plants led this week's news, with funding, fires, and complaints as a heavily subsidized wood-to-ethanol plant closed in Soperton, GA. Also, roving editor Karen Koenig delivers daily dispatches from China's furniture and cabinetry plants; and Martha Stewart visits her cabinetmakers in Kinton, NC.

Southern pines, particularly loblolly pine, will be the subject of a five-year $20 million study involving 12 universities.

Recreational vehicle manufacturer MVP RV, Inc. says it may hire as many as 1,200 workers to build recreational vehicles, some headed for export to China. The added jobs would include woodworkers to finish cabinetry and wood interior appointments in MPV RV's selection of models, which include travel trailers, motor homes and fifth wheel trailers.

CHARLOTTE, NC -- The 7th Annual Closets & Home Organization Conference & Expo ended for most of the 1,100-plus participants at 3:00 p.m. Friday, February 25, but not so for more than 30 who attended the Tech Tour to Holzma-U.S. and Biesse America.

HOLLYWOOD, FL -- The Association of Retail Environments is acepting registrations for A.R.E. University, scheduled for April 27-29. at DWF Airport in Dallas, TX.

DARTMOUTH, NOVA SCOTIA -- Scanwood Canada Ltd., which last month was declared financially insolvent, recently got a court OK to borrow $1 million to continue its restructuring plan.

INDIANAPOLIS -- Corey Brinkema, president of the Forest Stewardship Council U.S., is among featured presenters at the 3rd Dollars & Sense of Going Green Conference, March 17-18 in Indianapolis.