Returning from World War II to NYC, Lenny Silberman faced changing times. As a result, he found himself answering an ad in The New York Times promising “a HUGE opportunity” as a textile shipping clerk for $35 a week. He landed the job and went to night school to expand his industry knowledge and learn the fine art of selling. Together with his two partners and seven other hands-on employees, Silberman eventually launched Duralee Fabrics in 1952 from an office smaller than most modern-day walk-in closets.