Note 2 - Certain Significant Estimates

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Note 2 — Certain Significant Estimates

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities; the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements; and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. These estimates and judgments are evaluated on an ongoing basis and are based on experience; current and expected future conditions; third party evaluations; and various other assumptions believed reasonable under the circumstances. The results of these estimates form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities as well as identifying and assessing the accounting treatment with respect to commitments and liabilities. Actual results may differ from the estimates and assumptions used in the financial statements and related notes.

Listed below are certain significant estimates and assumptions related to the preparation of the consolidated financial statements:

Goodwill

In evaluating the recoverability of goodwill, it is necessary to estimate the fair values of the reporting units. In making this assessment, the Company estimates the fair market values of the reporting units using a discounted cash flow model and comparable market value data for similar entities. Key assumptions and estimates used in the cash flow model include discount rate, internal sales growth, margins, capital expenditure requirements, and working capital requirements. Recent performance of the reporting units is an important factor, but not the only factor, in the assessment. There are inherent assumptions and judgments required in the analysis of goodwill impairment.

Product Warranty

The Company provides limited warranties on certain of its products, for varying periods. Generally, the warranty periods range from 90 days to one year. However, some products carry extended warranties of seven-year, ten-year, and lifetime warranties. The Company records an accrued liability and reduction in sales for estimated future warranty claims based upon historical experience and management’s estimate of the level of future claims. Changes in the estimated amounts recognized in prior years are recorded as an adjustment to the accrued liability and sales in the current year. A reconciliation of the liability is as follows:

In Thousands	2011			2010			2009
Beginning balance	$	656		$	737		$	896
Additions		1,087			357			232
Deductions		(874	)		(438	)		(391	)
Ending balance	$	869		$	656		$	737

Inventory Valuation Reserves

The Company evaluates inventory for obsolescence and excess quantities based on demand forecasts based on specified time frames; usually one year. The demand forecast is based on historical usage, sales forecasts and current as well as anticipated market conditions. All amounts in excess of the demand forecast are deemed to be excess or obsolete and a reserve is established based on the anticipated net realizable value. A reconciliation of the reserve is as follows:

In Thousands	2011			2010			2009
Beginning balance	$	1,839		$	3,152		$	3,943
Additions		458			189			1,042
Deductions		(741	)		(1,502	)		(1,833	)
Ending balance	$	1,556		$	1,839		$	3,152

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

The Company provides an allowance for doubtful accounts based upon a review of outstanding receivables, historical collection information and existing economic conditions. Accounts receivable are ordinarily due between 30 and 60 days after the issuance of the invoice. Accounts are considered delinquent when more than 90 days past due. Delinquent receivables are reserved or written off based on individual credit evaluation and specific circumstances of the customer. A reconciliation of the allowance is as follows:

In Thousands	2011			2010			2009
Beginning balance	$	1,204		$	1,485		$	1,114
Additions		1,125			654			1,224
Deductions		(1,391	)		(935	)		(853	)
Ending balance	$	938		$	1,204		$	1,485

Customer Allowances

Customer allowances are common practice in the industries in which the Company operates. These agreements are typically in the form of advertising subsidies, volume rebates and catalog allowances and are accounted for as a reduction to gross sales. The Company reviews such allowances on an ongoing basis and accruals are adjusted, if necessary, as additional information becomes available. A reconciliation of the liability is as follows:

In Thousands	2011			2010			2009
Beginning balance	$	2,398		$	2,749		$	4,623
Additions		5,762			5,046			5,578
Deductions		(5,555	)		(5,397	)		(7,452	)
Ending balance	$	2,605		$	2,398		$	2,749