INCOME TAXES

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2011

INCOME TAXES

INCOME TAXES

11.          INCOME TAXES

Income tax benefit for the nine months ended September 30, 2011 was $5.6 million compared to income tax benefit of $5.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2010.  The year-to-date income tax provision is based on our estimate of the effective tax rate expected to be applicable for the full year.  Based upon the level of historical taxable income and projections for future taxable income over the periods in which the deferred tax assets are deductible, we believe it is more likely than not that we will realize the benefits of these deductible differences net of a tax-adjusted $3.4 million valuation allowance.  The amount of the deferred tax assets considered realizable could be reduced in the future if estimates of future taxable income during the carryforward period are reduced.