Crockett Livestock Auction - Feb. 10, 2009

Crockett prices called steady to moderately lower on average supplies.

CROCKETT, TX, Feb. 10, 2009 -- Compared to last week, feeder steers and heifers under 500 lbs were selling 3.00-6.00 lower, over 500 lbs unevenly steady. Slaughter cows and bulls were 1.00-2.00 lower. Trade and demand were moderately active with quality not as attractive as the previous week's offering. The bulk of the livestock supply were Medium and Large 2-3 300-600 lb feeder steers and heifers.

Slaughter cows made up 12 percent of the offering, slaughter bulls 2 percent, replacement cows 7 percent, and feeders 79 percent. The feeder supply included 52 percent steers and 48 percent heifers. Nearly 19 percent of the run weighed over
600 lbs.


Cattle and Calves: 798
Week Ago: 811
Year Ago: 795

Steers:
Medium and Large 1:
200-300 lbs 120.00-124.00;
300-400 lbs 112.00-120.00, fleshy 97.00;
400-500 lbs 97.00-106.00, individual 111.00;
500-600 lbs 86.00-96.00, few to 99.00;
600-700 lbs 79.00-89.00, few to 91.00, calves 86.00-92.00;
700-800 lbs 74.00-79.00, few 85.00-87.00.

Medium and Large 2:
200-300 lbs 110.00-120.00;
300-400 lbs 95.00-105.00, few to 107.00, thin 111.00-122.00;
400-500 lbs 85.00-94.00, few to 103.00, thin 104.00-113.00;
500-600 lbs 82.00-92.00, few to 98.00, thin 99.00;
600-700 lbs 82.00-92.00, individual 88.00, calves 89.00-92.00;
700-800 lbs 74.00-76.00.

Medium and Large 3:
300-400 lbs 86.00-94.00, thin 104.00-107.00;
400-500 lbs 82.00-90.00.

Heifers:
Medium and Large 1:
300-400 lbs 88.00-98.00, few to 103.00;
400-500 lbs 84.00-93.00, fancy 104.00;
500-600 lbs 78.00-80.00, yearlings 78.00-80.00;
600-700 lbs 79.00-80.00;
700-800 lbs 73.00-74.00;
800-900 lbs 74.00-75.00.

Medium and Large 1-2:
pkg 589 lbs 81.50.

Medium and Large 2:
300-400 lbs 80.00-90.00, few to 98.00;
400-500 lbs 74.00-84.00, fancy 85.00-94.00;
500-600 lbs 75.00-85.00, individual 89.00, few to 83.00;
600-700 lbs 73.00-77.00, calves 75.00-82.00;
700-800 lbs 69.00-79.00.

Medium and Large 3:
300-400 lbs 74.00-84.00;
400-500 lbs 75.00-83.00, thin 92.00;
500-600 lbs 77.00-82.00.

Slaughter Cows:
         % Lean    Weight    Avg Dressing     Hi Dressing    Lo Dressing 
Breakers 75-80   1200-1600    45.50-48.50                                     
Boners   80-85   1200-1600    42.00-46.50     50.00-53.00                  
Boners   80-85   1000-1200    41.50-46.50     49.50-53.50                     
Lean     85-90   1200-1600    36.50-38.50,                                 
Lean     85-90   1000-1200    30.50-35.50      
Lean     85-90  under-800     27.00-30.50 

Slaughter Bulls:
Yield Grade 1-2 1400-1730 lbs 51.50-55.50
High Dressing 1705-2320 lbs 58.00-63.50

Replacement Cows:
Medium and Large 1-2:
young 640-970 lb cows 4-8 months bred 500.00-630.00 per head;
middle aged 815-1185 lb cows 2-7 months bred 600.00-820.00 per head;
aged 960-1285 lb cows 5-8 months bred 560.00-700.00 per head.

Cow/Calf Pairs:
Medium and Large 1-2:
middle aged 1055-1080 lb cows w/100-190 lb calves 820.00-900.00 per pair.

Source: Texas Dept of Ag Market News-USDA Market News, Amarillo, TX

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Upshur County Fuel Price Update - Feb. 11, 2009

Upshur unleaded gas prices are about even with the average for the Midwestern states, and ten cents below the national average.

Click graphic to enlarge view.
Provided by the Energy Information Administration.

Local Gas and Diesel Prices 01-26-09

City	Unleaded	Premium	Diesel
Big Sandy	1.859	2.029	2.099
Diana	1.839	2.139	2.199
Gilmer	1.799	2.099	2.199
Ore City	1.779	2.099	2.199

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Athens Livestock Auction - Feb. 6, 2009

Feeder prices up slightly over last week. Slaughter cattle prices called steady

ATHENS, TX, Feb. 6, 2009 -- Compared to last week, feeder steers firm to 2.00 higher, feeder heifers steady to 2.00 higher. Slaughter cows and bulls steady. Trade was active and demand was good. Bulk supply was mainly medium and large #1-2 400-600 lb feeder steers and heifers.

Slaughter cows made up 10 percent of the offering, slaughter bulls 2 percent, replacement cows 3 percent, and feeders 85 percent. The feeder supply included 58 percent steers and 42 percent heifers. Near 21 percent of the run weighed over 600 lbs.


Cattle and Calves: 880
Week Ago: 495
Year Ago: N/A

Steers:
Medium and Large 1:
300-400 lbs 113.00-117.00, few to 123.00;
400-500 lbs 105.00-109.00, few to 113.00;
500-600 lbs 97.00-100.00;
600-700 lbs 80.00-85.00.

Medium and Large 2:
300-400 lbs 100.00-108.00, few to 111.00;
400-500 lbs 90.00-104.00;
500-600 lbs 90.00-96.00;
600-700 lb calves 83.00-86.00;
700-800 lbs 73.00-80.00.

Medium and Large 3:
300-400 lbs 90.00-96.00;
400-500 lbs 90.00-94.00;
500-600 lbs 80.00-86.00;
600-700 lb calves 75.00-76.00.

Heifers:
Medium and Large 1: 300-400 lbs 97.00-100.00.
Medium and Large 2:
300-400 lbs 89.00-96.00;
400-500 lbs 85.00-93.00;
500-600 lbs 75.00-82.00;
600-700 lb calves 74.00-78.00.

Medium and Large 3:
300-400 lbs 81.00-85.00;
400-500 lbs 80.00-83.00.

Slaughter Cows:

         %Lean    Weight   Avg Dressing   Hi Dressing   Lo Dressing
Boners   80-85  1200-1600   43.00-49.00   50.00-52.50                
Boners   80-85  1000-1200   40.00-48.50                              
Lean     85-90  1200-1600   37.00-40.50                               
Lean     85-90  1000-1200   35.50-38.50                              
Lean     85-90   800-1000   34.00-37.50                               
Lean     85-90  under 800   25.00-29.00

Slaughter Bulls:
Yield Grade 1-2 1300-2100 lbs 49.00-53.50
High Dressing 1725-2000 lbs 55.00-63.00
Low Dressing 1000-1300 lbs 35.00-39.00

Replacement Cows:
Medium and Large 1-2: young 800-965 lb cows 3-7 months bred 62.00-70.00 CWT;
middle aged 995-1390 lb cows 5-8 months bred 58.00-76.00 CWT.

Cow/Calf Pairs:
Medium and Large 1-2: young 900-1250 lb cows w/50-200 lb calves 750.00-830.00 per pair.

Source: Texas Dept of Ag Market News-USDA Market News, Amarillo, TX

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SBA Patriot Express Program Reaches $250 Million

SBA Loans Top $250 Million to Vets and Military Community Entrepreneurs

WASHINGTON, DC, Feb. 9, 2009 -- In just 20 months, the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Patriot Express Pilot Loan Initiative has approved more than $250 million in loan guarantees to nearly 2,900 veterans and their spouses who are using the SBA- guaranteed funds to establish and expand their small businesses.

More than 20 percent of the loans have come in the first four months of fiscal year 2009, and overall loan amounts have averaged around $88,000 per loan.
Some 15 percent of the loans have gone to military spouses.

Patriot Express, launched June 28, 2007, builds on the more than $1 billion in loans SBA guarantees annually for veteran-owned businesses, and the counseling assistance and procurement support it provides each year to more than 100,000 veterans, service-disabled veterans and Reserve members. More than 14 percent of businesses in America are owned by veterans.


“Despite the difficulties presented by today’s economy, SBA is committed to helping America’s service men and women who are fighting the War on Terror, and all vets and military spouses,” SBA Acting Administrator Darryl Hairston said. “We believe that Patriot Express, supported by SBA’s other services, goes directly to the needs of these American patriots who wish to start businesses, and in the process encourages job creation and growth, an essential part of the President’s economic agenda.”

Patriot Express is a streamlined loan product based on the agency’s highly successful SBA Express Program, but with enhanced guaranty and interest rate characteristics. The Patriot Express loan is offered by SBA’s network of participating lenders nationwide and features SBA’s fastest turnaround time for loan approvals. Loans are available up to $500,000 and qualify for SBA’s maximum guaranty of up to 85 percent for loans of $150,000 or less and up to
75 percent for loans over $150,000 up to $500,000. For loans above $350,000, lenders are required to take all available collateral.

The Patriot Express loan can be used for most business purposes, including start-up, expansion, equipment purchases, working capital, inventory or business-occupied real-estate purchases. Patriot Express loans feature SBA’s lowest interest rates for business loans, generally 2.25 percent to 4.75 percent over prime depending upon the size and maturity of the loan. Local SBA district offices will have a listing of Patriot Express lenders in their areas.
Details on the initiative can be found at www.sba.gov/patriotexpress.

Interest rate maximums for Patriot Express loans are the same as those for regular 7(a) loans: a maximum of Prime + 2.25 percent for maturities under seven years; Prime + 2.75 percent for seven years or more. Interest rates can be higher by two percent for loans of $25,000 or less; and one percent for loans between $25,000 and $50,000.

Patriot Express is available to military community members including veterans, service-disabled veterans, active-duty service members participating in the military’s Transition Assistance Program, Reservists and National Guard members, current spouses of any of the above, and the widowed spouse of a service member or veteran who died during service, or of a service-connected disability.

Patriot Express loans have been approved in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and Guam and generally range from $5,000 to $375,000 in individual loan amounts. After loan applications are approved by the bank, they are submitted to SBA for approval. Most applications are approved by SBA within 24 hours.

SBA has veterans’ business development officers in district offices in every state and territory able to provide military community members full access to the SBA’s range of programs and services. There are also five Veterans Business Outreach Centers located in: Albany, N.Y.; Pittsburgh, Pa.; Lynn Haven, Fla.; Edinburg, Texas; and Sacramento, Calif.

In addition to district offices, SBA’s resource partners SCORE, Counselors to America’s Small Business, Small Business Development Centers, and Women’s Business Centers provide local and online assistance with: writing a business plan, financing options to start or grow your business, managing the business, expanding the business and selling goods and services to the government.

For those who are already small business owners and who expect call-up, the SBA and its resource partners have expertise to assist with preparing their businesses before deployment, managing their businesses, selling goods and services to the government, obtaining other SBA financing and financial assistance, and obtaining loans for economic injury – Military Reserve Economic Injury Disaster Loans (MREIDL) – loans of up to $2 million are available for small businesses sustaining economic injury because an owner or essential employee has been called to active duty as a military reservist.

The SBA and its Office of Veterans Business Development (OVBD) provides comprehensive assistance, outreach and support to veterans. Each year the SBA assists more than 100,000 veterans, service-disabled veterans and Reserve Component members. Go to www.sba.gov/vets.

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U.S. Steel Lauds Voluntary Early Retirement Program

Company announces successful program results, calls it a stepping stone to restructuring

PITTSBURGH, PA, Feb. 6, 2009 -- United States Steel Corporation announced today that approximately 500 employees have elected to retire under a Voluntary Early Retirement Program (VERP) offered to certain non-represented Headquarters and Operations employees in the United States who met age and years-of-service criteria.

The retirement date for most employees will be February 28, with a few exceptions to allow for a short transition period. In connection with the program, U. S. Steel will take a first quarter pre-tax charge of approximately $70 million.

Among those who elected to retire are a number of executives, whose names will be announced in a series of press releases as internal notifications take place. The executive retirements will be effective on or about April 1, subject to an appropriate transition period.

As a result of this program, U. S. Steel will restructure its workforce as well as its leadership ranks to meet current business needs using a comprehensive succession plan. We expect that this restructuring could save approximately $50 million annually once it has been fully implemented.

The VERP is one element of a wide-ranging plan the company implemented to conserve cash and lower costs in light of the difficult global economic environment.

For more information about U. S. Steel, visit www.ussteel.com.

SOURCE: United States Steel Corporation

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USDA Hay Report - Feb. 6, 2009

Feedlots begin grinding corn stalks, driving alfafa prices down. Drought impact worsens, coastal prices still steady.

AMARILLO, TX, Feb. 6, 2009 -- Compared to last week, chopped alfalfa and large bale prices weakened as sellers found resistance from feedlots who are looking for cheaper roughage alternatives. Several lots are grinding anything including corn stalks to provide a roughage source at a cheaper price. Milo hay in particular is being ground and is providing excellent tests results.

Negative margins in the beef feeding sector along with losses in the dairy sector has reduced demand for some hay products. Sellers are trying to move inventories of old crop prior to the new crop, precipitating lower prices in some hay products. The exception seems to be high quality horse or dairy type hay that is almost always in short supply by the end of the winter.

Drought conditions in many areas have depleted hay stocks as supplemental feeding has occurred all winter even on wheat, oats, and rye pastures, keeping prices steady in those areas. Livestock producers in severe drought areas in south-central Texas have been forced to go far out of their normal marketing areas in order to purchase hay needs as hay has become extremely short.

Large rounds of any kind of grass very scarce and hard to find as producers have sold-out. Many feedlots and dairy farms are beginning to contract hay and corn silage for next year.

The state of Texas Department of Agriculture has the Hay and Grazing Hot Line set up for buyers and sellers, that number is 1-877-429-1998. The web site for TDA is www.tda.state.tx.us.
Prices for hay and pellets quoted per ton except where noted.


Panhandle:
Alfalfa:
Small Squares: Delivered:
Premium to Supreme quality 250.00-300.00, 8.00-10.00 per bale;
Good to Premium quality 200.00-250.00, 7.00-8.00 per bale.

Large Squares: Delivered:
Supreme to Premium quality 200.00-250.00, instances to 265.00;
Good to Premium quality 190.00-200.00;
Fair to Good quality 160.00-190.00.

Chopped Alfalfa:
Delivered to feedlots:
North: 175.00-185.00.
South: 180.00-190.00.

Milo Hay: Ground and Delivered: 100.00.

Wheat Hay:
Large rounds: Delivered:
Good quality 120.00-140.00;
Poor quality 100.00

Sorghum Hay: Large rounds: Delivered: 100.00-110.00.

Prairie grass hay: Delivered: large rounds: 140.00.

Haygrazer: Delivered: large rounds 125.00-135.00.

West Texas:
Alfalfa:
Small Squares:FOB:
Premium to Supreme quality 240.00-300.00, 8.00-10.00 per bale;
Good to Premium quality 200.00-240.00; 7.00-8.00 per bale.

Large Squares: Delivered:
Premium to Supreme quality 225.00-250.00;
Good to Premium quality 190.00-225.00;
Good quality 160.00-190.00.

North, Central and East Texas:
Alfalfa:
Small Squares:
Delivered:
Premium to Supreme quality 250.00-300.00, 8.00-10.00 per bale;
Good to Premium quality 7.00-8.00 per bale.

FOB:
Good to Premium quality 5.00-7.00 per bale in the barn.

Large Squares: Delivered:
Premium to Supreme quality 200.00-250.00, instances to 265.00;
Good to Premium quality 190.00-200.00.

Coastal Bermuda:
Small Squares: FOB:
Good to Premium quality 6.00-7.50 per bale;
Fair quality 5.00-6.00 per bale.

Large rounds: FOB:
Premium 70.00-80.00;
Good quality 50.00-70.00;
Fair quality 40.00-50.00 per roll.

South Texas:
Coastal Bermuda: Small squares: FOB or delivered locally:
Good to Premium quality 6.00-7.50;
Fair quality 5.00-6.00 per bale.

Large rounds: FOB:
Premium quality 70.00-90.00;
Good quality 50.00-70.00;
Poor quality 30.00-40.00 per roll.

See the complete report at http://www.ams.usda.gov/mnreports/am_gr310.txt.

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OSHA Director To Headline Speakers At Kilgore College Safety Expo

KC to host sixth annual Safety & Health Expo Feb. 27


KILGORE, TX, Feb. 5, 2009 -- The Kilgore College Occupational Safety and Health department will host the sixth annual Safety & Health Expo in the Devall Student Center on the KC campus. The event is scheduled for 7:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Friday, Feb. 27.

Featured speaker for the event is Stephen Boyd from Dallas, who is the OSHA Area Director. Other speakers include Steven Carden, Brian Ruthven and J.R. Smith.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:
7:30 – 8 a.m., Registration, breakfast
8 – 9 a.m., “Workplace Violence” by Brian Ruthven
9 – 10 a.m., “OSHCON Update” by Steven Carden
10 – 10:30 a.m., Break/Vendor table visitation
10:30 – 11:30 a.m., “Operation Lifesaver” by J.R. Smith
11:30 – Noon, Break/Vendor table visitation
Noon – 1 p.m., “OSHA Update” by Stephen Boyd


Tables are currently available for any vendor interested in promoting their business. Tables are $300 per spot, tax deductable, provided by the KC student chapter of the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE).

“All proceeds from vendor tables and donations will benefit the KC student chapter in our goal of spreading the importance of safety throughout East Texas,” said Kamal Muhammad, ASSE president at KC.

Admission is free, but registration is recommended. Food will be served for breakfast free of charge to all who register.

For more information, or to register for the expo, contact Muhammad at (903) 917-3185.

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Seminars Offered For Small Business Hopefuls

Kilgore College and the Small Business Development Center offer courses aimed at taking the pain out of start-ups

KILGORE, TX, Feb. 5, 2009 -- The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) has released its 2009 lineup of seminars and courses. Headlining the offerings is a course entitled 'How to Start & Operate a Business in East Texas'.

The course, given over eight weeks, covers various topics important to small businesses. The course is designed to help the person who is already in business or one who wishes to begin a business.

It offers a step-by-step approach to gaining knowledge needed to begin operation and keep the things running as smoothly as possible. The course aims to be a practical approach, and was designed by Brad Bunt, Director of the SBDC and Sandra Russell, CPA of Sandra H. Russell, P.C.


Each session features local professionals covering topics relevant to starting/operating a business. Topics such as the latest tax and corporate laws, insurance, financing programs and marketing trends are covered by local insurance agents, attorneys, CPAs, bankers, advertising consultants, and other business professionals.

Classes cost $99.00, including books and course materials, and are offered weekly from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the following locations:
* Marshall - Center for Applied Technology, Tuesdays, Feb. 10th - Apr. 7th.
* Gilmer - Gilmer H.S. Career & Technology Bldg., Tuesdays, Feb.10th - Apr.7th.
* Longview - Kilgore College on Thursdays, February 12th - April 9th.

A certificate of completion will be presented to each student completing all eight classes.

Those interested in attending are urged to contact the SBDC at (903) 757-5857 or (800) 338-7232.

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Texas' Water Supply Questioned

Comptroller Susan Combs says future water shortages
threaten Texas’ way of life

AUSTIN, TX, Feb. 4, 2009 -- Developing and protecting our water resources is one of the most pressing long-term issues facing Texas, state Comptroller Susan Combs said today. Ensuring adequate and reliable sources of clean water is essential to protect the health of Texas citizens and the strength of the state economy.

“By 2060, more than 46 million people could be living in Texas, and demand for water will increase by an estimated 27 percent,” Combs said. “According to the Texas Water Development Board, failing to meet this demand could cost businesses and workers in the state approximately $9.1 billion per year by 2010 and $98.4 billion per year by 2060.”

The state could lose $466 million in tax revenue in 2010 and up to $5.4 billion by 2060 due to decreased business activity caused by insufficient water.

In addition to population growth, Texas’ vulnerability to drought makes long-term water planning both imperative and challenging, Combs said. Each of the several one- or two-year droughts in Texas during the past decade has cost agricultural producers and businesses between $1 billion and $4 billion annually.


Combs released a new report, Liquid Assets: The State of Texas’ Water Resources, examining Texas’ current and future water resources, the practical and policy barriers facing local and statewide water planners and possible funding mechanisms that could be tapped to develop Texas’ water resources. The report also looks at the progress made by Texas’ 16 regional water planning groups and the challenges those groups face in addressing their water needs.

Groundwater provides 59 percent of Texas’ available fresh water, surface water provides approximately 40 percent and the remaining 1 percent is made up of reused ground and surface water. Both sources are dwindling — groundwater due to over-pumping and surface water due to sediment accumulation in reservoirs. Liquid Assets: The State of Texas’ Water Resources reports Texas currently does not have enough water to fulfill all of its estimated future needs. Without new management and conservation measures, in the event of a drought, water needs could increase from 3.7 million acre-feet in 2010 to 8.8 million acre-feet in 2060. If Texas were to see a drought-of-record, up to 85 percent of the population in 2060 could experience water shortages.

In 1997, the Texas Legislature established a comprehensive water planning process in which the state’s 16 regional water planning groups work with the Water Development Board to assess future water needs in their regions, propose solutions and estimate their cost, culminating in a statewide water plan that is updated every five years. This “bottom-up” approach allows maximum input from local stakeholders such as agriculture, industry, cities, water utilities and power companies.

The current State Water Plan, adopted in 2007 by the Water Development Board, includes $30.7 billion in proposed projects. Water projects are funded by a combination of state and local dollars. In the last four years, state funding has made up approximately 2 percent of total water project funding. In fiscal 2008, the state provided $137.9 million. Cities and other local jurisdictions say the state will need to provide $2.4 billion by 2060 to help initiate essential, large-scale projects in communities throughout Texas. And, TWDB recently estimated that the amount needed from the state for these projects could increase to $16.6 billion in the next statewide water plan in 2012.

To meet Texas’ growing needs, Liquid Assets: The State of Texas’ Water Resources says officials should consider a dedicated funding source for water development. Options reviewed by the Joint Committee on State Water Funding in the Legislature include a sales tax on currently tax exempt water and sewer services provided by public water supply systems; a water conservation and development fee on customers’ utility bills; increasing the water rights fee currently paid by water rights holders; a water connection or “tap fee” on each water connection in the state; and a sales tax on bottled water. To ensure the state gets the most for its money and meets the critical water needs of all Texans today and in the future, Liquid Assets: The State of Texas’ Water Resources recommends further examining the issue of water conservation to ensure all communities are making an effort to conserve existing water supplies, and strengthening oversight and accountability to ensure funds go only to projects that are truly needed.

Liquid Assets: The State of Texas’ Water Resources recommends that officials considering proposals for water project funding should try to balance these criteria:

* Adequacy — the financing mechanism should be sufficient to cover identified costs without burdening those who pay the fees.

* Equity — the cost of water projects should be spread among all user groups in proportion to their demand for water.

* Specificity — funds raised for water development projects should not be diverted to other needs.

* Affordability — the plan should be sensitive to water users’ ability to pay, since a certain level of water use is non-discretionary.

* Simplicity — the plan should be easy to administer and follow.

* Conservation — the financing system should encourage water conservation and discourage inefficient use.

“Ensuring reliable water supplies for the future and balancing those supplies appropriately between rural and urban areas, and among agricultural, municipal, industrial and electricity-generating users is the challenge of our day,” Combs said. “State and local policymakers must also consider the economic impact of any new regulations affecting landowners’ private property rights in the water under their land. They can use this report as a tool to help drive sound and prudent water policy in the state.”

Liquid Assets: The State of Texas’ Water Resources can be found on the Comptroller’s Web site at www.window.state.tx.us/specialrpt/water.

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Athens Livestock Auction - Jan. 30, 2009

Feeder prices edge upwards, slaughter prices firm with good demand

ATHENS, TX, Jan. 30, 2009 -- Compared to last week, feeder steer prices firm to 2.00 higher. Feeder heifers steady to 2.00 higher. Slaughter cows and bulls steady, on good demand. Bulk supply Medium and Large 1-2 400-600 lb feeder steers and heifers.

Slaughter cows made up 6 percent of the offering, slaughter bulls 3 percent, replacement cows 9 percent, and feeders 82 percent. The feeder supply included 68 percent steers and 32 percent heifers. Near 14 percent of the run weighed over 600 lbs.


Cattle and Calves: 495
Week Ago: 984
Year Ago: N/A

Steers:
Medium and Large 1:
300-400 lbs 113.00-117.00, individual 127.50;
400-500 lbs 108.00-110.00, few to 114.00;
500-600 lbs 95.00-100.00.

Medium and Large 2:
300-400 lbs 104.00-111.00;
400-500 lbs 94.00-101.00;
500-600 lbs 86.00-95.00;
600-700 lb calves 80.00-84.00;
700-800 lbs 70.00-77.00.

Heifers:
Medium and Large 2:
300-400 lbs 85.00-93.00;
400-500 lbs 83.00-91.00;
500-600 lbs 78.00-81.00.

Slaughter Cows:
         %Lean    Weight   Avg Dressing   Hi Dressing   Lo Dressing
Boners   80-85  1200-1600   43.00-48.00                                
Boners   80-85  1000-1200   42.50-46.50                               
Lean     85-90  1000-1200   30.00-38.00                                  
Lean     85-90   800-1000   32.50-35.00                 25.00-27.50

Slaughter Bulls:
Yield Grade 1-2 1300-2100 lbs 48.00-53.50
High Dressing 1725-2000 lbs 55.00-61.00

Replacement Cows:
Medium and Large 1-2: young 1010-1075 lb cows 5-8 months bred 61.00-70.00 CWT; middle aged 950-1140 lb cows 2-8 months bred 51.00-64.00 CWT;
aged 965-1115 lb cows 4-8 months bred 35.00-47.00 CWT.

Cow/Calf Pairs:
Medium and Large 1-2:
middle aged 980-1035 lb cows w/150-225 lb calves 750.00-910.00 per pair;
aged 825-1200 lb cows w/50-200 lb calves 340.00-680.00 per pair.

Source: Texas Dept of Ag Market News-USDA Market News, Amarillo, TX
See the full report at http://www.ams.usda.gov/mnreports/am_ls140.txt.

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Upshur Oil and Gas Report - Jan. 2008

Apache receives approval to drill the Tarter Coleman #2

Jan. 21, 2009 -- The Texas Railroad Commission (RRC) received two drilling permit requestsfor Upshur County in January, both from the Apache Corporation, and both for recompletions.

On Jan. 7th, Apache filed to recomplete the W.F. Smith #3, a 12,100 foot well in the Cotton Valley Sands field. That permit was approved on Jan. 13th.

Apache also filed, on Jan. 30th, to recomplete the Hargest Gas Unit #1, a 16,000 foot well in the Cotton Valley Sand. Approval for that permit has not been issued.

The RRC also approved a permit filed last month by Maximus Operating for the Tarter Coleman #2, a new 12,500 foot well in the Cedar Springs field.

Upshur County Well Completions and Potential Testing

None in Jan. 2009

New leases Built in Upshur County:

Apache reported to the RRC on 01-02-09 that surface construction was complete at the Wright Unit #3 well.

McBee Operating Co. reported to the RRC on 01-15-09 that surface construction was complete at the Spencer Gas Unit #1 well.

XTO Energy reported to the RRC on 01-13-09 that surface construction was complete at the Will McKnight Gas Unit #1 well.

Pipeline Permitting, Construction and Operating In Upshur County:

None in Jan. 2009

Monthly Production Totals For Upshur County:

For the month of November, 2008, the RRC reports that combined production of Upshur oil and gas leases were 9,890 barrels of oil, 2,732,125 MCF of natural gas, and 27,624 barrels of condensate.

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Secretary Andrade Praises State’s Economic Development Efforts

says Texas "very business-friendly" in speech.

WESTLAKE, TX, Jan. 30, 2009 – Texas Secretary of State Hope Andrade today addressed the Northeast Leadership Forum at their annual meeting and award luncheon. Andrade, an entrepreneur from San Antonio, highlighted the advantages of doing business in Texas and praised the state’s proactive efforts in economic development.

“There should be no question in our minds about how fortunate we are to call ourselves Texans,” Andrade said. “As the world’s 12th-largest economy, we added more than 152,000 new jobs last year, while the nation as a whole lost more than 2.6 million.”


Though the rate of expansion has slowed, the Texas economy is still expanding and has been recognized as the state best-suited to weather the current financial uncertainty. Texas ranks as the top relocation destination in the U.S. for the fourth year in a row and is now home to the most FORTUNE 500 corporate headquarters in the nation.

“While other states are driving businesses away through increased taxes, regulatory ‘hoops,’ and unharnessed spending, Texas welcomes them with open – and very business-friendly – arms,” Andrade continued.

Andrade reminded the audience of the profitable gains the state has seen through the Texas Enterprise Fund and the Texas Emerging Technology Fund. Since its creation in 2003, the Enterprise Fund has helped close the deal on projects generating $14 billion in capital investment and more than 53,000 new jobs for the state. Additionally, the state has invested more than $110 million in research teams, universities, and technology companies through the Emerging Technology Fund.

Andrade underscored the role state government can play in Texas economic development activities.

She said the state should, “continue cultivating a business environment which encourages entrepreneurial ideas, a competitive economy, and new opportunities for Texas and our many partners. As we move forward, let’s remain mindful of the primary principle which has brought us such great prosperity: the commitment to a limited government system that allows people to grow their businesses, invest their money, create new jobs, and fully realize the unlimited opportunities that await them in our state,” Andrade concluded.

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Sales Tax Seminar To Be Held In Tyler

Texas Comptroller’s Office Schedules February Tax Help Seminars

AUSTIN, TX, Jan. 30, 2009 -- A thriving economy, growing work force and friendly business climate attract more businesses to the Lone Star state every day. Texas Comptroller Susan Combs’ office regularly presents free taxpayer seminars throughout the state to help new and existing business owners understand their state tax responsibilities.

At the seminars, taxpayers can learn about sales tax forms, filing and paying taxes electronically, taxable goods and services, e-services to help taxpayers manage their accounts online, the Comptroller’s e-mail subscription service that alerts taxpayers when new tax information is posted online, and the array of other services and information available from the Comptroller’s office to assist taxpayers. Comptroller representatives will answer questions and provide assistance to attendees.

“A strong and diverse business community is the key to Texas’ economic strength,” Combs said. “We are committed to assisting Texas businesses by making taxes simpler, smarter, faster and, above all, transparent. We owe it to our taxpayers to provide the best customer service possible.”

Five seminars will take place throughout February at various locations across the state. For a complete list of locations, dates and times is available at www.window.state.tx.us/taxinfo/seminars.html.

The closest scheduled seminar to Upshur County will be held in Tyler. It is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 12 at the Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce. The seminar will begin at 6:00 p.m. Interested parties can contact the Tyler Field Office at (903) 534-0333.

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TASB Report Says Industry Should Help Design High School Curriculum

Texas Association of Schoolboard's report examines the college and workforce readiness of Texas students.

AUSTIN, TX, Jan. 29, 2009 -- Legal and policy barriers to postsecondary success and workforce readiness are examined in a report recently released by the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) as part of a two-year project funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

The report, Barriers to Implementing College and Workforce Readiness Initiatives in Texas, focuses on legal, regulatory, and practical obstacles that keep students from making a successful transition from
high school to college or the workforce.

“Local school board members, district administrators, and legislators should each consider how to address the relevant barriers in their own districts. Some will require local solutions; others must be addressed statewide,” said Jackie Lain, TASB associate executive director of Governmental Relations. “This report identifies a number of important policies designed to improve college and workforce readiness in Texas. The next steps are to assure that local school districts have appropriate resources to support their implementation.”


One of the project’s goals is to help state and district policymakers better understand the existing legal and policy framework for preparing all Texas students for college and work. “TASB has identified laws and policies that are impeding Texas public schools from successfully preparing young adults for future success,” said Catherine Clark, TASB associate executive director of Governance Services. “By studying not only the legal requirements but also how they are implemented, we have identified laws and policies that support students in making that transition successfully and those that impose unintended barriers. Understanding the challenges will help policymakers refine and calibrate those requirements to better facilitate high school graduation and post-high school success,” Clark said.

Although Texas has made great strides in improving academic preparation of students, more work must be done to achieve college and workforce readiness. Among the report’s major conclusions:
* Research consistently shows that teacher quality has the greatest impact on student learning. Therefore, the state should ensure that traditional and alternative teacher certification programs are preparing teachers with the knowledge and skills they need to help students meet the demands of higher education and the workforce.

* College and career counseling must be made more readily available to students, especially in schools with high populations of students who are historicallyunderrepresented in higher education.

* The state must invest in the creation of a longitudinal data system to help educators in public and higher education institutions understand the relationship between teaching, learning, outcomes, and postsecondary preparedness.

* Finally, labor market representatives should be involved earlier in the process of developing curricula standards for public and higher education courses, and course offerings should be aligned with workforce needs.

In coming months, TASB will share the report’s findings in presentations to statewide organizations, Texas legislative staff, school board members, district administrators, and other interested groups. “All stakeholders need to be aware of existing barriers in order to overcome them and help Texas students successfully transition from high school,” Lain said.

TASB is a nonprofit organization established in 1949 to serve local Texas school districts. School board members are the largest group of publicly elected officials in the state. The districts they represent serve more than 4.7 million public school students.

In the United States, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is focused on increasing opportunity for all Americans by ensuring all students—regardless of race or family income—can graduate college-ready and earn a postsecondary credential with real value in the workplace.

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USDA Hay Report - Jan. 30, 2009

Prices steady to weak on active trade as drought conditions out west worsen.

AMARILLO, TX, Jan. 30, 2009 -- Compared to last week, hay prices generally steady to weak in a moderate to active trade. High quality alfalfa for horses or dairies continues to be limited and very hard to find.

The extreme drought condition in most all areas of the state is a major concern to hay producers as well as all other agriculture interests. Many counties have instituted fire bans as several acres have already been burned this year. The continuing extreme drought and stock tanks and ponds drying-up has some livestock producers moving or selling off livestock.

The decreasing milk and fed cattle prices has many dairy farms and feedlots cutting back on high quality hay requirements and forced to use other less costly roughage in order to lower ration costs.

The state of Texas Department of agriculture has the Hay and Grazing Hot Line set up for buyers and sellers, number is 1-877-429-1998. The web site for TDA is
www.tda.state.tx.us.

The following prices for hay and pellets quoted per ton except where noted.


Panhandle:
Alfalfa:
Small Squares: Delivered:
Premium to Supreme quality 250.00-300.00, 8.00-10.00 per bale;
Good to Premium quality 200.00-250.00, 7.00-8.00 per bale.

Large Squares: Delivered:
Supreme to Premium quality 210.00-250.00;
Good to Premium quality 190.00-220.00;
Fair to Good quality 160.00-190.00.

Chopped Alfalfa: Delivered to feedlots:
North: 180.00-190.00.
South: 185.00-190.00.

Wheat Hay: Large rounds: Delivered: 120.00-125.00
Sorghum Hay: Large rounds: Delivered: 100.00-110.00.
Bluestem grass hay: Delivered: large rounds: 120.00.
Haygrazer: Delivered: large rounds 125.00-135.00.

West Texas:
Alfalfa: Small Squares: FOB:
Premium to Supreme quality 240.00-300.00, 8.00-10.00 per bale;
Good to Premium quality 200.00-240.00; 7.00-8.00 per bale.

Large Squares: Delivered:
Premium to Supreme quality 225.00-250.00;
Good to Premium quality 190.00-225.00;
Good quality 160.00-190.00.

North, Central and East Texas:
Alfalfa: Small Squares: Delivered:
Premium to Supreme quality 250.00-300.00, 8.00-10.00 per bale;
Good to Premium quality 7.00-8.00 per bale.

FOB:
Good to Premium quality 5.00-7.00 per bale in the barn.

Large Squares: Delivered:
Premium to Supreme quality 225.00-250.00;
Good to Premium quality 190.00-225.00.

Coastal Bermuda: Small Squares: FOB:
Premium quality 6.00-7.50 per bale;
Fair to Good quality 5.00-6.00 per bale.

Large rounds: FOB:
Premium 70.00-80.00;
Good quality 50.00-70.00;
Fair quality 40.00-50.00 per roll.

South Texas:
Coastal Bermuda: Small squares: FOB or delivered locally:
Good quality 5.00-7.50 per bale.

Large rounds: FOB:
Premium quality 70.00-85.00;
Good quality 50.00-70.00;
Poor quality 30.00-40.00 per roll.

See the full report at http://www.ams.usda.gov/mnreports/am_gr310.txt.

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Crockett Cattle Auction - Jan. 28, 2009

Slaughter prices up slightly and feeders down on moderate trade affected by icy weather conditions.

CROCKETT, TX, Jan. 27, 2009 -- Compared to last week: Feeder steers and heifers 2.00-3.00 lower, with some lighter calves 6.00 lower. Slaughter cows 2.00-3.00 higher. Slaughter bulls 2.00 higher. Trade and demand moderate, however today's auction was affected by the icy weather to the north and west, hampering livestock movement. Bulk supply Medium and Large 2-3 300-600 lb feeder steers and heifers.

Slaughter cows made up 12 percent of the offering, slaughter bulls 1 percent, replacement cows 2 percent, and feeders 85 percent. The feeder supply included 52 percent steers and 48 percent heifers. Near 16 percent of the run weighed over 600 lbs.


Cattle and Calves: 1,068
Week Ago: 1,561
Year Ago: 790

Steers:
Medium and Large 1:
300-400 lbs 102.00-112.00, few to 115.00;
400-500 lbs 93.00-103.00, few to 112.00, fleshy 84.00-85.00;
500-600 lbs 86.00-96.00, few to 102.00;
600-700 lbs 76.00-86.00, few to 93.00, calves 80.00-89.00, few to 94.00;
700-800 lbs 84.00-85.00.

Medium and Large 2:
200-300 lbs 116.00-124.00;
300-400 lbs 91.00-101.00, few to 109.00, thin 111.00-120.00;
400-500 lbs 86.00-96.00, few to 98.00, thin 101.00-108.00;
500-600 lbs 79.00-89.00, few to 96.00;
600-700 lbs 85.50-95.00.

Medium and Large 3:
200-300 lbs 103.00-110.00;
300-400 lbs 89.00-99.00, individual 102.00;
400-500 lbs 76.00-85.00, individual 89.00;
500-600 lbs 73.00-75.00.

Heifers:
Medium and Large 1:
300-400 lbs 88.00-99.00;
400-500 lbs 77.00-87.00, few to 91.00, fleshy 72.00;
500-600 lbs 75.00-85.00, individual 89.00;
600-700 lbs 73.00-79.00, calves 76.00-77.00;
700-800 lbs 69.00-76.00.

Medium and Large 2:
few 200-300 lbs 88.00-99.00;
300-400 lbs 77.00-86.00, few to 90.00, fancy 94.00-97.00;
400-500 lbs 74.00-84.00, few to 89.00, fancy 90.00-97.00;
500-600 lbs 72.00-82.00, individual 87.00;
600-700 lbs 71.00-80.00, few to 84.00, calves 75.00-76.00;
700-800 lbs 65.00-75.00.

Medium and Large 3:
300-400 lbs 72.00-82.00, individual 88.00;
400-500 lbs 70.00-80.00, few to 84.00;
500-600 lbs 65.00-75.00.

Slaughter Cows:

         % Lean     Weight     Avg. Dressing     Hi Dressing     Lo Dressing
Boners   80-85    1200-1600     45.50-49.50      51.50-54.50                
Boners   80-85    1000-1200     43.00-48.00      49.50-52.50                  
Lean     85-90    1000-1200     40.00-43.00      45.50-47.50     35.50-36.50
Lean     85-90     800-1000     32.50-37.50      38.00-44.00     30.50-31.50
Lean     85-90    under 800     31.50-33.50

Slaughter Bulls
Yield Grade 1-2 1155-1935 lbs 50.50-54.50

Replacement Cows:
Medium and Large 1-2:
young 815-940 lb cows 5-6 months bred 660.00-740.00 per head,
fancy 1050 lb cows 6 months bred 880.00 per head;
middle aged 995-1095 lb cows 5-7 months bred 680.00-770.00 per head,
fancy 1325-1460 lb cows 7-8 months bred 870.00-890.00 per head;
aged 1020-1030 lb cows 6-8 months bred 560.00-640.00 per head

Source: Texas Dept of Ag Market News-USDA Market News, Amarillo, TX

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Robroy Promotes Paul Herman To Plant Manager

Gilmer resident to take the reins at Korn's plant in Avinger.

AVINGER, TX, Jan. 29, 2009 -- ECN/KORNS announced today the promotion and return of Paul Herman to the position of Plant Manager of their manufacturing plant in Avinger.

ECN/KORNS, a Robroy company, manufactures galvanized couplings, elbows, clamps and nipples for the electrical construction industry.

Paul has been with Robroy 34 years, and started with them in Verona, PA as a production worker. In 1995, he was promoted to supervisor and moved to Gilmer.

In 2001, Paul became a Methods Analyst for the Gilmer Plant and in 2005, went to the Avinger facility as Plant Manager.

He then returned Gilmer, again as Methods Analysts/Special Projects and has been promoted back to Plant Manager in Avinger.

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U. S. Steel to Relocate Dallas Administrative Office

Lone Star plant facilities not affected

PITTSBURGH, PA., Jan. 28, 2009 -- United States Steel Corporation announced today that it plans to relocate the administrative offices of its U. S. Steel Tubular Products, Inc. subsidiary from Dallas, Texas, to the company's corporate headquarters in Pittsburgh, Pa. The relocation will take place gradually over the next several months.

"Moving our Tubular Products subsidiary's administrative functions to our corporate headquarters will allow us to realize additional synergies and reduce costs through the elimination of duplicate services," said Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer John H. Goodish. "Overall, this move will make us more efficient."

U. S. Steel Tubular Products, Inc. will continue to maintain a significant presence in Texas through a sales office in Houston and other operating locations.

"Our Houston office is an important location for sales and service," Goodish added. "Additional sales personnel will relocate to Houston to provide customer support."

In addition to the sales office, U. S. Steel Tubular Products, Inc. has tubular products operating facilities in Bellville (Bellville Operations Division), Houston (Tubular Processing Services Division, Tubular Threading and Inspection Services Division, and Wheeling Machine Products), Hughes Springs (Wheeling Machine Products), and Lone Star (Star Tubular Services Division and Texas Operations Division).

There are currently about 80 employees working at the Dallas administrative office, but the exact number of employees who will relocate to Pittsburgh and Houston has yet to be determined.

For more information about U. S. Steel and U. S. Steel Tubular Products, Inc., visit www.ussteel.com.

SOURCE: United States Steel Corporation

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Don Jackson Elected to Pilgrim's Pride Board of Directors

The vote follows yesterday's announcement of a ruling by the US Bankruptcy Court to allow the hiring of Jackson, a former Tyson executive, as President and CEO.

PITTSBURG, TX., Jan. 28, 2009 -- Pilgrim's Pride Corporation (Pink Sheets: PGPDQ) today announced that Don Jackson, president and chief executive officer, has been elected to the Company's Board of Directors, effective immediately.

Dr. Jackson joined the company on an interim basis last month and his appointment as president and CEO was approved yesterday by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court. Prior to accepting his position with Pilgrim's Pride, he served as president of Foster Farms' poultry division, a leading poultry producer on the West Coast.

As previously announced, the Company filed voluntary Chapter 11 petitions on December 1, 2008. The Chapter 11 cases are being jointly administered under case number 08-45664. The Company's operations in Mexico and certain operations in the United States were not included in the filing and continue to operate as usual outside of the Chapter 11 process.

Additional information about the restructuring is available at the Company's website www.pilgrimspride.com or via the Company's restructuring information line at (888) 830-4659.

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Court Approves Jackson To Head Pilgrim's Pride

U.S. Bankruptcy Court approves Don Jackson as President and Chief Executive Officer of Pilgrim's Pride

PITTSBURG, TX., Jan. 27 -- Pilgrim's Pride Corporation (Pink Sheets: PGPDQ) today announced that the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Texas has approved the Company's hiring of Don Jackson as president and chief executive officer.

As previously announced, Dr. Jackson had joined the company on an interim basis last month. Prior to accepting his position with Pilgrim's Pride, he served as president of Foster Farms' poultry division, a leading poultry producer on the West Coast.

Pilgrim's Pride filed voluntary Chapter 11 petitions on December 1, 2008. The Chapter 11 cases are being jointly administered under case number 08-45664. The Company's operations in Mexico and certain operations in the United States were not included in the filing and continue to operate as usual outside of the Chapter 11 process.

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