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Inventories
3 Months Ended
Mar. 24, 2012
Inventories [Abstract]  
Inventory Disclosure [Text Block]

Note 2 – Inventories

 

                We use the LIFO method for valuation of a substantial portion of inventories.  An actual valuation of inventory under the LIFO method can be made only at the end of each year based on the inventory levels and costs at that time. Accordingly, interim LIFO calculations are based on management’s estimates of expected year-end inventory levels and costs.  Because these estimates are subject to many factors beyond management’s control, interim results are subject to the final year-end LIFO inventory valuation. If the FIFO method had been used, inventories would have been approximately $87.5 million higher onMarch 24, 2012 and $87.3 million higher on December 31, 2011.  We recorded a LIFO charge of $0.2 million during the first quarter 2012 as compared to a LIFO charge of $0.5million during the first quarter 2011.