Stock-Based Compensation

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2013

Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]

Stock-Based Compensation

5.  Stock-Based Compensation

The Company follows ASC 718 in accounting for its share-based payments. This guidance requires measurement of the cost of employee services received in exchange for stock compensation based on the grant-date fair value of the employee stock awards. This cost is recognized as compensation expense ratably over the employee's requisite service period.  Incremental compensation costs arising from subsequent modifications of awards after the grant date must be recognized when incurred.

For all service awards, the Company records compensation expense for the entire award on a straight-line basis (or, if applicable, on the accelerated method) over the requisite service period.  For awards with performance-based vesting conditions, total compensation expense is recognized over the requisite service period for each separately vesting tranche of the award as if the award is, in substance, multiple awards once the performance target is deemed probable of achievement.  Performance goals are evaluated quarterly.  If such goals are not ultimately met or it is not probable the goals will be achieved, no compensation expense is recognized and any previously recognized compensation expense is reversed.

The Company's compensation expense recorded in connection with grants of restricted stock for the three and six months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012 reflects an initial estimated cumulative forfeiture rate from 0% to 10% over the requisite service period of the awards. That estimate is revised if subsequent information indicates that the actual number of awards expected to vest is likely to differ from previous estimates.

Current year grants of restricted shares under the Company's Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan were as follows (amounts in thousands except for value per share):

	Shares Granted		Value Per Share		Total Value
Three months ended March 31, 2013		1,036		$25.32 − $27.36		$       27,858
Three months ended June 30, 2013		156		$26.85 − $27.50		$         4,216