Des Moines, Iowa, was hit by a flood in the summer of 1993. Flood waters contaminated our water plant, so we lived without running water for a month.

High waters closed roads for days at a time. Hundreds of families lost their homes and everything they owned. Dozens of businesses in Des Moines and West Des Moines were flooded. Inventories were ruined, buildings were gutted, and many smaller companies went under -- figuratively and literally.

We were hit too. In fact, 7½ feet of flood waters entered the Donald Durham Company. The waters covered our equipment, our inventory, our supplies, even our letterhead and stationery. It took approximately 3½ months to get back into production. Fortunately, our customers stuck by us and remained patient as we cleaned up the mess.

On the bright side, the flood taught us two things. First, never underestimate customer loyalty -- we're still grateful to this day. Secondly, the can says "Rock Hard™" for good reason.