12. Commitments and contingencies

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]

12. Commitments and contingencies

At December 31, 2011, we were the lessee on operating leases for equipment and real property.  Rent expense was approximately $1,030,000, $1,047,000 and $1,024,000 in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.  Minimum aggregate rental payments required under operating leases that have initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year as of December 31, 2011 are as follows: $607,000 in 2012; $385,000 in 2013; $372,000 in 2014; $378,000 in 2015; $382,000 in 2016; and $225,000 thereafter.