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UNICO AMERICAN CORP - Quarter Report: 2009 June (Form 10-Q)

form10q-0609.htm
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q
 (Mark One)

[X]    Quarterly Report under Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2009 or

[  ]     Transition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Commission File No. 0-3978
 

UNICO AMERICAN CORPORATION
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

Nevada
95-2583928
(State or Other Jurisdiction of
 (I.R.S. Employee
 Incorporation or Organization)
Identification No.)
 
 
 23251 Mulholland Drive,  Woodland Hills, California  91364
 (Address of Principal Executive Offices)  (Zip Code)
 
(818) 591-9800
(Registrant's Telephone Number, Including Area Code)

No Change
(Former Name, Former Address and Former Fiscal Year, if Changed Since Last Report)

 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.     Yes X    No __ 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).     Yes__      No__ 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer.  See definition of “accelerator filer and large accelerator in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.  (Check one):

       Large accelerated filer __                                                               Accelerated filer __

       Non-accelerated filer __                                                                 Smaller reporting company X
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).     Yes    No

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
 

Class
Outstanding at August 13, 2009
Common Stock, $0 Par value per share
5,564,452
 
 
 
 
 
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 PART 1 - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1 - FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

UNICO AMERICAN CORPORATION
AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
 

   
June 30
   
December 31
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
(Unaudited)
       
ASSETS
           
Investments
           
   Available for sale:
           
      Fixed maturities, at market value (amortized cost:  June 30,
           
         2009 $127,277,604; December 31, 2008 $135,540,354)
  $ 132,113,773     $ 142,971,980  
   Short-term investments, at cost
    15,291,795       9,502,033  
Total Investments
    147,405,568       152,474,013  
Cash
    25,994       27,710  
Accrued investment income
    1,103,823       1,301,238  
Premiums and notes receivable, net
    5,221,401       4,680,779  
Reinsurance recoverable:
               
   Paid losses and loss adjustment expenses
    66,288       114,734  
   Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
    17,968,864       19,815,573  
Deferred policy acquisition costs
    5,231,431       5,219,892  
Property and equipment (net of accumulated depreciation)
    318,098       359,553  
Deferred income taxes
    361,017       -  
Other assets
    966,647        609,484  
Total Assets
  $ 178,669,131     $ 184,602,976  
                 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
 
LIABILITIES
               
Unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
  $ 74,581,485     $ 78,654,590  
Unearned premiums
    20,390,075       19,962,118  
Advance premium and premium deposits
    1,347,388       1,192,553  
Income taxes payable
    -       558,604  
Deferred income taxes
    -       795,088  
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
     6,469,727       6,481,768  
Total Liabilities
  $ 102,788,675     $ 107,644,721  
                 
STOCKHOLDERS'  EQUITY
               
Common stock, no par – authorized 10,000,000 shares; issued and
               
   outstanding shares 5,564,452 at June 30, 2009, and 5,574,315 at
               
   December 31, 2008
  $ 3,564,302     $ 3,569,099  
Accumulated other comprehensive income
    3,191,872       4,904,873  
Retained earnings
    69,124,282       68,484,283  
Total Stockholders’ Equity
  $ 75,880,456     $ 76,958,255  
                 
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
  $ 178,669,131     $ 184,602,976  



See notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.


 
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UNICO AMERICAN CORPORATION
 AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(UNAUDITED)
 
 
   
Three Months Ended
   
Six Months Ended
 
   
June 30
   
June 30
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
REVENUES
                       
Insurance Company Revenues
                       
  Premium earned
  $ 10,222,303     $ 10,805,540     $ 20,096,450     $ 21,952,486  
  Premium ceded
    2,359,124       2,224,544       4,614,112       4,446,724  
     Net premium earned
    7,863,179       8,580,996       15,482,338       17,505,762  
  Net investment income
    1,143,324       1,481,120       2,367,184       3,078,186  
Net realized investment gains
    -       -       -       6,306  
  Other income
    196,228       207,545       400,538       322,183  
     Total Insurance Company Revenues
    9,202,731       10,269,661       18,250,060       20,912,437  
                                 
Other Revenues from Insurance Operations
                               
  Gross commissions and fees
    1,354,357       1,415,393       2,794,211       2,886,757  
  Investment income
    1,008       15,629       1,275       41,077  
  Finance charges and fees
    93,787       119,011       192,662       243,532  
  Other income
    1,361       2,700       3,463       6,711  
     Total Revenues
    10,653,244       11,822,394       21,241,671       24,090,514  
                                 
EXPENSES
                               
Losses and loss adjustment expenses
    4,787,233       6,080,589       9,421,886       12,276,295  
Policy acquisition costs
    1,970,899       2,077,190       3,924,758       4,158,161  
Salaries and employee benefits
    1,281,200       1,398,398       2,710,149       2,835,437  
Commissions to agents/brokers
    295,186       318,161       608,977       639,652  
Other operating expenses
    1,322,668       781,870       2,032,264       1,568,482  
     Total Expenses
    9,657,186       10,656,208       18,698,034       21,478,027  
                                 
     Income Before Taxes
    996,058       1,166,186       2,543,637       2,612,487  
Income tax provision
    311,992       385,226       830,327       871,537  
     Net Income
 
  $ 684,066     $ 780,960     $ 1,713,310     $ 1,740,950  
                                 
                                 
                                 
PER SHARE DATA:
                               
Basic
                               
    Earnings Per Share
  $ 0.12     $ 0.14     $ 0.31     $ 0.31  
    Weighted Average Shares
    5,566,665       5,625,308       5,567,960       5,625,308  
Diluted
                               
    Earnings Per Share
  $ 0.12     $ 0.14     $ 0.31     $ 0.31  
    Weighted Average Shares
    5,605,195       5,668,369       5,606,133       5,669,002  

 
 
See notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

 
 

 
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UNICO AMERICAN CORPORATION
 AND SUBSIDIARIES

STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(UNAUDITED)


   
Three Months Ended
   
Six Months Ended
June 30
 
   
June 30
   
June 30
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
                         
Net Income
  $ 684,066     $ 780,960     $ 1,713,310     $ 1,740,950  
Other changes in comprehensive income, net of tax:
                               
     Unrealized (losses) on securities classified as
                               
        available-for-sale arising during the period
    (1,006,026 )     (1,793,479 )     (1,713,001 )     (81,119 )
            Comprehensive (Loss) Income
  $ (321,960 )   $ (1,012,519 )   $ 309     $ 1,659,831  



 
See notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.
 
 
 

 
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UNICO AMERICAN CORPORATION
 AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(UNAUDITED)


   
For the Six Months Ended
 
   
June 30
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
           
   Net Income
  $ 1,713,310     $ 1,740,950  
   Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operations
               
      Depreciation
    97,958       105,970  
      Bond amortization, net
    171,748       129,993  
Net realized investment gains
    -       (6,306 )
   Changes in assets and liabilities
               
      Premium, notes and investment income receivable
    (343,207 )     348,923  
      Reinsurance recoverable
    1,895,155       5,101,621  
      Deferred policy acquisition costs
    (11,539 )     403,480  
      Other assets
    34,667       1,987  
      Reserve for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses
    (4,073,105 )     (8,808,663 )
      Unearned premium reserve
    427,957       (2,068,333 )
      Funds held as security and advanced premiums
    154,835       (942,450 )
      Accrued expenses and other liabilities
    (12,041 )     1,722,480  
      Income taxes current/deferred
    (1,224,084 )      76,657  
Net Cash (Used in) Operations
    (1,168,346 )     (2,193,691 )
                 
Investing Activities
               
Purchase of fixed maturity investments
    (12,408,997 )     (30,241,519 )
Proceeds from maturity of fixed maturity investments
    20,500,000       31,435,000  
Proceeds from sale of fixed maturity investments
    -       505,750  
Net (increase) in short-term investments
    (5,789,762 )     428,806  
Additions to property and equipment
    (56,503 )     (12,220 )
Net Cash Provided by Investing Activities
    2,244,738       2,115,817  
                 
Financing Activities
               
Dividends paid to shareholders
    (1,002,173 )     -  
Repurchase of common stock
     (75,935 )     -  
Net Cash Used in Financing Activities
    (1,078,108 )     -  
                 
Net decrease in cash
    (1,716 )     (77,874 )
Cash at beginning of period
    27,710       108,864  
Cash at End of Period
  $ 25,994     $ 30,990  
                 
Supplemental Cash Flow Information
               
Cash paid during the period for:
               
Interest
    -       -  
Income taxes
  $ 2,058,800     $ 800,000  



See notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.
 

 

 
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UNICO AMERICAN CORPORATION
 AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2009

 

 
NOTE 1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
Nature of Business
Unico American Corporation is an insurance holding company that underwrites property and casualty insurance through its insurance company subsidiary; provides property, casualty, and health insurance through its agency subsidiaries; and provides insurance premium financing and membership association services through its other subsidiaries.  Unico American Corporation is referred to herein as the "Company" or "Unico" and such references include both the corporation and its subsidiaries, all of which are wholly owned, unless otherwise indicated.  Unico was incorporated under the laws of Nevada in 1969.

Principles of Consolidation
The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Unico American Corporation and its subsidiaries.  All significant inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Basis of Presentation
The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) for interim financial information and the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X.  Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements.  In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included.  Operating results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2009.  Quarterly financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes in the Company’s 2008 Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Use of Estimates in the Preparation of the Financial Statements
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions that affect its reported amounts of assets and liabilities and its disclosure of any contingent assets and liabilities at the date of its financial statements, as well as its reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  While every effort is made to ensure the integrity of such estimates, actual results may differ.

 
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
 
The Company has used the following methods and assumptions in estimating its fair value disclosures:

·  
Investment Securities - Fair values for fixed maturity securities are obtained from a national quotation service.  The fair values for equity securities are based on quoted market prices.
 
·  
Cash and Short-Term Investments - The carrying amounts reported in the balance sheet for these instruments approximate their fair values.

·  
Premiums and Notes Receivable - The carrying amounts reported in the balance sheet for these instruments approximate their fair values.

 
NOTE 2 – STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
 
Effective January 1, 2006, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS No. 123) (revised 2004), “Share-Based Payment” (SFAS No. 123R), using the modified prospective transition method.  Under this transition method, share-based compensation expense for 2006 includes compensation expense for all share-based compensation awards granted prior to, but not yet vested as of January 1, 2006, based on the grant-date fair value estimated in accordance with the original provisions of SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation.” Share-based compensation expense for all share-based payment awards granted or modified on or after January 1, 2006, is based on the grant-date fair value estimated in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 123R.
 
 
 
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There were no options granted on or after January 1, 2006; and there were no unvested options as of January 1, 2006, on adoption of SFAS 123R.  As a result, there are no share-based compensation expenses recorded for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008.
 
 
NOTE 3 – REPURCHASE OF COMMON STOCK - EFFECTS ON STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
In April 2000, the Company announced that its Board of Directors had authorized the purchase in the open market from time to time of up to an aggregate of 315,000 shares of the common stock of the Company.  On August 8, 2000, the Board of Directors authorized the purchase of an additional 315,000 shares and on September 6, 2000, the Board of Directors authorized the purchase of another 315,000 shares of the common stock of the Company in the open market.  On December 19, 2008, the Board of Directors authorized an additional stock repurchase program to acquire up to 500,000 shares of the Company’s common stock in the open market from time to time.  This brought the total shares of the Company’s common stock authorized to be repurchased to 1,445,000 shares since the year 2000.  The programs have no expiration date and may be terminated by the Board of Directors at any time.  During the six months ended June 30, 2009, the Company repurchased 9,863 shares of the Company’s common stock at a cost of $75,935 of which $4,797 was allocated to capital and $71,138 was allocated to retained earnings.  As of June 30, 2009, under the stock repurchase programs previously adopted by the Company, the Company had remaining authority to repurchase up to an aggregate of 505,604 shares of common stock.

 
NOTE 4 - EARNINGS PER SHARE
 
The following table represents the reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the Company's basic earnings per share and diluted earnings per share computations reported on the Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008:

   
Three Months Ended
   
Six Months Ended
 
   
June 30
   
June 30
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
Basic Earnings Per Share
                       
Net income numerator
  $ 684,066     $ 780,960     $ 1,713,310     $ 1,740,950  
                                 
Weighted average shares outstanding denominator
    5,566,665       5,625,308       5,567,960       5,625,308  
                                 
     Basic Earnings Per Share
  $ 0.12     $ 0.14     $ 0.31     $ 0.31  
                                 
Diluted Earnings per Share
                               
Net income numerator
  $ 684,066     $ 780,960     $ 1,713,310     $ 1,740,950  
                                 
Weighted average shares outstanding
    5,566,665       5,625,308       5,567,960       5,625,308  
Effect of dilutive securities
    38,530       43,061       38,173       43,694  
Diluted shares outstanding denominator
    5,605,195       5,668,369       5,606,133       5,669,002  
                                 
     Diluted Earnings Per Share
  $ 0.12     $ 0.14     $ 0.31     $ 0.31  
 
 
NOTE 5 - RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
 
In April 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued FSP FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2, “Recognition and Presentation of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments” (FSP FAS 115-2/124-2).  FSP FAS 115-2/124-2 requires entities to separate an other-than-temporary impairment of a debt security into two components when there are credit related losses associated with the impaired debt security, management asserts that it does not have the intent to sell the security, and it is more likely than not that it will not be required to sell the security before recovery of its cost basis.  The amount of the other-than-temporary impairment related to a credit related loss is recognized in earnings, and the amount of the other-than-temporary impairment related to other factors is recorded in other comprehensive loss.  FSP FAS 115-2/124-2 is effective for periods ending after June 15, 2009, with early adoption permitted for periods ending after March 15, 2009.  The adoption on June 30, 2009, of FSP FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2  did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
 
 
 
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In April 2009, the FASB issued FSP FAS 157-4, “Determining Fair Value When Volume and Level of Activity for the Asset or Liability Have Significantly Decreased and Identifying Transactions that are Not Orderly” (FSP FAS 157-4).  Under FSP FAS 157-4, if an entity determines that there has been a significant decrease in the volume and level of activity for the asset or the liability in relation to the normal market activity for the asset or liability (or similar assets or liabilities), then transactions or quoted prices may not accurately reflect fair value.  In addition, if there is evidence that the transaction for the asset or liability is not orderly, the entity shall place little, if any weight on that transaction price as an indicator of fair value.  FSP FAS 157-4 is effective for periods ending after June 15, 2009, with early adoption permitted for periods ending after March 15, 2009. The adoption on June 30, 2009, of FSP FAS 157-4 did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
  
In April 2009, the FASB issued FSP FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1, “Interim Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments” (FSP FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1).  FSP FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1 require disclosures about fair value of financial instruments in interim and annual financial statements.  FSP FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1 are effective for periods ending after June 15, 2009, with early adoption permitted for periods ending after March 15, 2009. The adoption on June 30, 2009, of FSP FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1 did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In May 2009, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 165, “Subsequent Events” (FAS 165).  FAS 165 is consistent with existing auditing standards in defining subsequent events as events or transactions that occur after the balance sheet date but before the financial statements are issued or are available to be issued, but it also requires the disclosure of the date through which an entity has evaluated subsequent events and the basis for that date.  FAS 165 defines two types of subsequent events: “recognized subsequent events” and “non-recognized subsequent events.”  Recognized subsequent events provide additional evidence about conditions that existed at the balance sheet date and must be reflected in the company’s financial statements.  Non-recognized subsequent events provide evidence about conditions that arose after the balance sheet date and are not reflected in the financial statements of a company.  Certain non-recognized subsequent events may require disclosure to prevent the financial statements from being misleading.  FAS 165 was effective on a prospective basis for interim or annual periods ending after June 15, 2009.  The adoption on June 30, 2009, of FAS 165 had no effect on the Company’s results of operations, financial position or liquidity.  There were no subsequent events requiring adjustment to the financial statements or disclosure through August 13, 2009, the date that the Company’s financial statements were issued.

In June 2009, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 168, The “FASB Accounting Standards Codification and the Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles- a replacement of FASB Statement No. 162” (FAS 168).  FAS 168 will serve as the single source of authoritative non-governmental U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.  Accordingly, all other accounting literature not included is considered non-authoritative.  FAS 168 is effective on a prospective basis for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009.  The Company does not expect that the adoption of FAS 168 will impact the Company’s results of operations, financial position or liquidity.

There have been no other accounting standards issued during 2009 that are expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 
NOTE 6 – ACCOUNTING FOR UNCERTAINTY IN INCOME TAXES
 
The Company and its subsidiaries file federal and state income tax returns.  Management does not believe that the ultimate outcome of any future examinations of open tax years will have a material impact on the Company’s results of operations.  Tax years that remain subject to examination by major taxing jurisdictions are 2007 through 2008 for federal income taxes and 2004 through 2008 for California state income taxes.

FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes, an Interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109, Accounting for Income Taxes” (FIN 48) clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in an enterprise’s financial statements in accordance with FASB Statement No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes.”  FIN 48 prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return.  This interpretation also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure, and transition.  This interpretation became effective January 1, 2007.  Since adoption of FIN 48 and as of June 30, 2009, the Company had no unrecognized tax benefits and no additional liabilities or reduction in deferred tax asset as a result of the adoption of FIN 48 effective January 1, 2007.  In addition, the Company had not accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits. However, if interest and penalties would need to be accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits, such amounts would be recognized as a component of federal income tax expense.
 
 
 
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NOTE 7 - SEGMENT REPORTING
 
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 131, “Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information,” establishes standards for the way information about operating segments is reported in financial statements.  The Company has identified its insurance company operation as its primary reporting segment.  Revenues from this segment comprised 86% of consolidated revenues for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, compared to 87% of revenues for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008.  The Company’s remaining operations constitute a variety of specialty insurance services, each with unique characteristics and individually insignificant to consolidated revenues.

Revenues, income before income taxes, and assets by segment are as follows:
 
   
Three Months Ended
     Six Months Ended  
   
June 30
   
 June 30
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
Revenues
                       
Insurance company operation
  $ 9,202,731     $ 10,269,661     $ 18,250,060     $ 20,912,437  
 
                               
Other insurance operations
    4,084,900       4,234,233       8,738,197       8,750,462  
Intersegment eliminations (1)
    (2,634,387 )     (2,681,500 )     (5,746,586 )     (5,572,385 )
   Total other insurance operations
    1,450,513       1,552,733       2,991,611       3,178,077  
                                 
   Total revenues
  $ 10,653,244     $ 11,822,394     $ 21,241,671     $ 24,090,514  
 
                               
Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes
                               
Insurance company operation
  $ 2,089,110     $ 1,904,906     $ 3,936,066     $ 3,910,083  
Other insurance operations
    (1,093,052 )     (738,720 )     (1,392,429 )     (1,297,596 )
   Total income before income taxes
  $ 996,058     $ 1,166,186     $ 2,543,637     $ 2,612,487  

 
   
As of
 
   
June 30
   
December 31
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
Assets
           
Insurance company operation
  $ 158,051,088     $ 171,700,199  
Intersegment eliminations (2)
    (3,233,115 )     (1,658,771 )
     Total insurance company operation
 
    154,817,973       170,041,428  
                 
Other insurance operations
    23,851,158       14,561,548  
                 
     Total Assets
  $ 178,669,131     $ 184,602,976  

(1)  
Intersegment revenue eliminations reflect commission paid by Crusader to Unifax Insurance Systems, Inc., (Unifax) a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.
(2)  
Intersegment asset eliminations reflect the elimination of Crusader receivables and Unifax payables.
 
 
NOTE 8 - FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
 
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements,” (SFAS No. 157) was adopted by the Company as of January 1, 2008.   SFAS No. 157 establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value.  The fair value of a financial instrument is the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (the exit price). Financial assets and financial liabilities recorded on the consolidated balance sheets at fair value are categorized based on the reliability of inputs to the valuation techniques as follows:

Level 1 - Financial assets and financial liabilities whose values are based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets.

Level 2 - Financial assets and financial liabilities whose values are based on quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in non-active markets; or valuation models whose inputs are observable, directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability.

Level 3 - Financial assets and financial liabilities whose values are based on prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement. These inputs reflect the Company’s estimates of the assumptions that market participants would use in valuing the financial assets and financial liabilities.

 

 
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The hierarchy gives the highest priority to Level 1 inputs and the lowest priority to Level 3 inputs. In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy.  In such cases, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement in its entirety falls has been determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety.  The Company’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment and considers factors specific to the asset or liability.

The Company’s fixed maturities investments are all classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy because they are valued using quoted market prices, broker or dealer quotations, or alternative pricing sources in active markets for identical assets with reasonable levels of price transparency.  Fair value measurements are not adjusted for transaction costs.

All of the Company’s fixed maturity investments are classified as available-for-sale and are stated at fair value.  Although all of the Company's investments are classified as available-for-sale and the Company may sell investment securities from time to time in response to economic and market conditions, its investment guidelines place primary emphasis on buying and holding high-quality investments to maturity.  Short-term investments are carried at cost, which approximates fair value.  The unrealized gains or losses from fixed maturities are reported as “accumulated other comprehensive income (loss),” which is a separate component of stockholders’ equity, net of any deferred tax effect.  For fixed maturity investments that the Company does not intend to sell or for which it is more likely than not that the Company would not be required to sell before an anticipated recovery in value, the Company separates the credit loss component of the impairment from the amount related to all other factors and reports the credit loss component in net realized investment gains (losses).  The impairment related to all other factors is reported in “accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).”  Realized gains and losses, if any, are included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations based on the specific identification method.

The Company had $3,191,872 of unrealized investment gain, net of deferred taxes as of June 30, 2009, as compared to $4,904,873 of unrealized investment gains, net of deferred taxes as of December 31, 2008.

 
NOTE 9 -  INVESTMENTS
 
The amortized cost and estimated fair values of investments in fixed maturities by categories are as follows:

         
Gross
   
Gross
   
Estimated
 
   
Amortized
   
Unrealized
   
Unrealized
   
Fair
 
   
Cost
   
Gains
   
Losses
   
Value
 
June 30, 2009
                       
Available for sale:
                       
  Fixed maturities
                       
  Certificates of deposit
  $ 12,808,997       -       -     $ 12,808,997  
  U.S. treasury securities
    105,395,524     $ 4,756,117       -       110,151,641  
  Industrial and miscellaneous taxable bonds
    9,073,083       80,052       -       9,153,135  
     Total fixed maturities
  $ 127,277,604     $ 4,836,169       -     $ 132,113,773  
                                 
December 31, 2008
                               
Available for sale:
                               
  Fixed maturities
                               
  Certificates of deposit
  $ 400,000       -       -     $ 400,000  
  U.S. treasury securities
    124,526,227     $ 7,412,273       -       131,938,500  
  Industrial and miscellaneous taxable bonds
    10,614,127       85,078     $ 65,725       10,633,480  
     Total fixed maturities
  $ 135,540,354     $ 7,497,351     $ 65,725     $ 142,971,980  

A summary of the unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments carried at fair value and the applicable deferred federal income taxes are shown below:

   
June 30
   
December 31
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
             
Gross unrealized appreciation of fixed maturities:
  $ 4,836,169     $ 7,497,351  
Gross unrealized (depreciation) of fixed maturities:
    -       (65,725 )
Net unrealized appreciation on investments
    4,836,169       7,431,626  
Deferred federal tax (expense)
    (1,644,297 )     (2,526,753 )
   Net unrealized appreciation,  net of deferred income taxes
  $ 3,191,872     $ 4,904,873  
 
 
 
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The Company had no investments in an unrealized loss position as of June 30, 2009, and at December 31, 2008, had three fixed maturity investment grade industrial securities with a gross unrealized loss of $65,725, for continuous periods of 0 to 6 months.
 
The Company did not sell any fixed maturity investment in the six months ended June 30, 2009. The Company sold one fixed maturity investment in the six months ended June 30, 2008, with net realized gain in the amount of $6,306.

Short-term investments have an initial maturity of one year or less and consist of the following:
 
   
June 30
   
December 31
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
             
U.S. government money market fund
  $ 196,844     $ 5,585,395  
Short-term U.S. treasury bills
    4,999,044       399,953  
Bank money market accounts
    7,448,147       3,312,140  
Certificates of deposit
    2,646,000       200,000  
Bank savings accounts
    1,760       4,545  
   Total short-term investments
  $ 15,291,795     $ 9,502,033  

The Company manages its own investment portfolio.  A summary of net investment and related income is as follows:
 
   
Three Months Ended June 30
   
Six Months Ended June 30
 
 
 
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
                         
Fixed maturities
  $ 1,126,887     $ 1,458,417     $ 2,339,031     $ 3,020,451  
Realized gains on fixed maturities
    -       -       -       6,306  
Short-term investments
    17,445       38,332       29,428       98,812  
     Total investment income
  $ 1,144,332     $ 1,496,749     $ 2,368,459     $ 3,125,569  
 
 
NOTE 10 – CONTINGENCIES
 
One of the Company’s agents that was recently appointed to help the Company get its Trucking Program started failed to pay the net premium and policy fees due Unifax, the exclusive general agent for Crusader. The agent was initially late in paying its February 2009 production that was due Unifax on April 15, 2009.  In May 2009, as a result of the agent’s failure to timely pay its balance due Unifax, the Company terminated its agency agreement and assumed ownership and control of that agent’s policy expirations written with the Company.  The agent has not paid any subsequent premium to Unifax. The Company subsequently commenced legal proceedings against the agent and the agent’s guarantors for recovery of the balance due and any related recovery costs incurred.  All related recovery costs have been expensed as incurred.  As of July 31, 2009, the agent’s balance due Unifax was $1,405,538.  Based on the limited information presently available, the Company established a bad debt reserve at June 30, 2009,  in the amount of $351,385 which represents approximately 25% of the current balance due Unifax. The Company’s bad debt reserve is subject to change as more information becomes available.


ITEM 2 - MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
Overview
 
General
 
Unico American Corporation is an insurance holding company that underwrites property and casualty insurance through its insurance company subsidiary; provides property, casualty and health insurance through its agency subsidiaries; and through its other subsidiaries provides insurance premium financing and membership association services.

The Company had a net income of $684,066 for the three months ended June 30, 2009, compared to net income of $780,960 for the three months ended June 30, 2008, a decrease in net income of  $96,894 (12%).  For the six months ended June 30, 2009, the Company had a net income of $1,713,310 compared to a net income of $1,740,950 for the six months ended June 30, 2008, a decrease in net income of $27,640 (2%).

This overview discusses some of the relevant factors that management considers in evaluating the Company's performance, prospects, and risks.  It is not all-inclusive and is meant to be read in conjunction with the entirety of the management discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations, the Company's financial statements and notes thereto, and all other items contained within the report on this Form 10-Q.
 
 
 
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Revenue and Income Generation
 
The Company receives its revenue primarily from earned premium derived from the insurance company operations, commission and fee income generated from the insurance agency operations, finance charges and fee income from the premium finance operations, and investment income from cash generated primarily from the insurance company operation.  The insurance company operation generated approximately 86% of consolidated revenues for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, and approximately 87% of consolidated revenues for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008.  The Company’s remaining operations constitute a variety of specialty insurance services, each with unique characteristics and individually not material to consolidated revenues.

Insurance Company Operation
 
The property and casualty insurance industry is highly competitive in the areas of price, coverage, and service.  It is highly cyclical, characterized by periods of high premium rates and shortages of underwriting capacity followed by periods of severe price competition and excess capacity.  The property and casualty insurance industry includes many insurers, ranging from large companies offering a wide variety of products worldwide to smaller, specialized companies in a single state or region offering only a single product.  Many of the Company's existing or potential competitors have considerably greater financial and other resources, have a higher rating assigned by independent rating organizations such as A.M. Best Company, have greater experience in the insurance industry and offer a broader line of insurance products than the Company.  In addition, Crusader competes not only with other insurance companies but also with other general agencies.  Many of those general agencies offer more products than the Company.

Effective January 27, 2009, A.M. Best Company upgraded Crusader’s financial strength rating to A- (Excellent) from B++ (Good), and revised Crusader’s rating outlook to “stable” from “positive.”  In addition, Crusader’s Issuer Credit Rating was upgraded to a- (Excellent) from bbb+ (Good).

Premium written before reinsurance decreased $25,543 (0%) to $9,907,397 for the three months ended June 30, 2009, compared to $9,932,940 for the three months ended June 30, 2008.  Premium written before reinsurance increased $640,252 (3%) to $20,524,405 for the six months ended June 30, 2009, compared to $19,884,153 for the six months ended June 30, 2008.  The increase in premium written before reinsurance for the six months ended June 30, 2009 as compared to prior year period is primarily attributed to new products introduced by the Company beginning in July 2008.  The principal method of competition among competitors is based on price.  While the Company attempts to meet such competition with competitive prices, its emphasis is on service, promotion, and distribution.  The Company believes that rate adequacy is more important than premium growth and that underwriting profit (net earned premium less losses and loss adjustment expenses and policy acquisition costs) is its primary goal.  Nonetheless, Crusader believes that it can continue to grow its sales and profitability by continuing to focus upon three key areas of its operations: (1) product development, (2) improved service to retail brokers, and (3) appointment of captive and independent retail agents.

Crusader’s underwriting profit (before income taxes) is as follows:

 
 
Three Months Ended June 30
   
Six Months Ended June 30
 
         
Increase
         
Increase
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
(Decrease)
   
2009
   
2008
   
(Decrease)
 
                                     
Net premium earned
  $ 7,863,179     $ 8,580,996     $ (717,817 )   $ 15,482,338     $ 17,505,762     $ (2,023,424 )
                                                 
Less:
                                               
Losses and loss adjustment expenses
    4,787,233       6,080,589       (1,293,356 )     9,421,886       12,276,295       (2,854,409 )
Policy acquisition costs
    1,970,899       2,077,190       (106,291 )     3,924,758       4,158,161       (233,403 )
     Total
    6,758,132       8,157,779       (1,399,647 )     13,346,644       16,434,456       (3,087,812 )
                                                 
Underwriting Profit (Before Income Taxes)
  $ 1,105,047     $ 423,217     $ 681,830     $ 2,135,694     $ 1,071,306     $ 1,064,388  

The increase in the underwriting profit (before income tax) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, compared to the prior year periods, as shown in the above table, are primarily the result of a decrease in losses and loss adjustment expenses offset by a  decrease in net premium earned.

 
 
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Losses and loss adjustment expenses were 61% of net premium earned for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, compared to 71% and 70% of net premium earned for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, respectively.  The decrease in losses and loss adjustment expenses as compared to the prior year period is primarily due to a decrease in current accident year losses incurred and an increase in favorable development of prior accident years’ losses and loss adjustment expenses.  The decrease in current accident year losses and loss adjustment expenses incurred is primarily related to lower reserve estimates for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses due to fewer policies sold and a decrease in net earned premium.  The following table provides an analysis of the losses and loss adjustment expenses as follows:

   
Three Months Ended June 30
   
Six Months Ended June 30
 
                                     
Losses and loss adjustment expenses:
 
2009
   
2008
   
Increase
(Decrease)
   
2009
   
2008
   
Increase
(Decrease)
 
                                     
  Current accident year
  $ 5,840,939     $ 6,378,563     $ (537,624 )   $ 11,182,234     $ 12,933,042     $ (1,750,808 )
Less: favorable development of all prior accident years
    1,053,706       297,974       755,732       1,760,348       656,747       1,103,601  
     Total
  $ 4,787,233     $ 6,080,589     $ (1,293,356 )   $ 9,421,886     $ 12,276,295     $ (2,854,409 )
 
Other Operations
 
The Company’s other revenues from insurance operations consist of commissions, fees, finance charges, and investment and other income.  Excluding investment and other income, these operations accounted for approximately 14% of total revenues in the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, and approximately 13% of total revenues in the three and six months ended June 30, 2008.

The Company’s bad debt expense increased $349,153 and $349,945 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively.  The increase was primarily due to a single agent’s failure to remit premiums due Unifax.  See Note 10, Contingencies.

Investments and Liquidity
The Company generates revenue from its investment portfolio, which consisted of approximately $142.6 million (at amortized cost) at June 30, 2009, compared to $145.0 million (at amortized cost) at December 31, 2008.  Investment income decreased $352,417 (24%) and $750,804 (24%) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, as compared to prior year periods, respectively.  The decrease in investment income is primarily a result of a decrease in invested assets and a decrease in the Company’s annualized weighted average investment yield to 3.2% and 3.3% in the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, from 4.1% and 4.3% in the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, respectively.  Due to the current interest rate environment, management believes it is prudent to purchase fixed maturity investments with maturities of 5 years or less and with minimal credit risk.

 
Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
Due to the nature of the Company's business (insurance and insurance services) and whereas Company growth does not normally require material reinvestments of profits into property or equipment, the cash flow generated from operations usually results in improved liquidity for the Company.

Crusader generates a significant amount of cash as a result of its holdings of unearned premium reserves, reserves for loss payments, and its capital and surplus.  Crusader's loss and loss adjustment expense payments are the most significant cash flow requirement of the Company.  These payments are continually monitored and projected to ensure that the Company has the liquidity to cover these payments without the need to liquidate its investments.  As of June 30, 2009, the Company had cash and investments of $142,595,393 (at amortized cost) of which $140,684,508 (99%) were investments of Crusader.

As of June 30, 2009, the Company had invested $127,277,604 (at amortized cost) or 89% of its invested assets in fixed maturity obligations.  In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 115, “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities,” the Company is required to classify its investments in debt and equity securities into one of three categories: held-to-maturity, available-for-sale, or trading securities.  Although all of the Company's investments are classified as available-for-sale, the Company's investment guidelines place primary emphasis on buying and holding high-quality investments until maturity.
The Company's investments in fixed maturity obligations of $127,277,604 (at amortized cost) includes $105,395,524 (83%) of U.S. treasury securities, $9,073,083 (7%) of industrial and miscellaneous securities, and $12,808,997 (10%) of long-term certificates of deposit.
 
 
 
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The remaining balance of the Company's investments is in short-term investments that include U.S. treasury bills, bank money market accounts, certificates of deposit, and a short-term treasury money market fund.

The Company’s investment guidelines on equity securities limit investments in equity securities to an aggregate maximum of $2,000,000.  The Company’s investment guidelines on fixed maturities limit those investments to high-grade obligations with a maximum term of eight years.  The maximum investment authorized in any one issuer is $2,000,000.  This dollar limitation excludes bond premiums paid in excess of par value and U.S. government or U.S. government guaranteed issues.  Investments in municipal securities are primarily pre-refunded and secured by U.S. treasury securities.  The short-term investments are either U.S. government obligations, FDIC insured, or are in an institution with a Moody's rating of P2 and/or a Standard & Poor's rating of A1.  All of the Company's fixed maturity investment securities are rated, readily marketable, and could be liquidated without any materially adverse financial impact.
 
In April 2000, the Company announced that its Board of Directors had authorized the purchase in the open market from time to time of up to an aggregate of 315,000 shares of the common stock of the Company.  On August 8, 2000, the Board of Directors authorized the purchase of an additional 315,000 shares and on September 6, 2000, the Board of Directors authorized the purchase of another 315,000 shares of the common stock of the Company in the open market.  On December 19, 2008, the Board of Directors authorized an additional stock repurchase program to acquire up to 500,000 shares of the Company’s common stock in the open market.  This brought the total shares of the Company’s common stock authorized to be repurchased to 1,445,000 shares since the year 2000.  The programs have no expiration date and may be terminated by the Board of Directors at any time.  During the six months ended June 30, 2009, the Company repurchased 9,863 shares of the Company’s common stock at a cost of $75,935 of which $4,797 was allocated to capital and $71,138 was allocated to retained earnings.  As of June 30, 2009, under the stock repurchase programs previously adopted by the Company, the Company had remaining authority to repurchase up to an aggregate of 505,604 shares of common stock.

At a meeting of the Board of Directors held on March 23, 2009, the Board declared a cash dividend of $0.18 per common share. The dividend aggregating $1,002,173 was paid on May 1, 2009, to shareholders of record on April 10, 2009.

Although material capital expenditures may also be funded through borrowings, the Company believes that its cash and short-term investments as of the date of this report, net of trust restriction of $668,074, statutory deposits of $700,000, and the dividend restriction between Crusader and Unico, plus the cash to be generated from operations, should be sufficient to meet its operating requirements during the next twelve months without the necessity of borrowing funds.

 
Results of Operations
 
All comparisons made in this discussion are comparing the three months and six months ended June 30, 2009, to the three months and six months ended June 30, 2008, unless otherwise indicated.

The Company had a net income of $684,066 for the three months ended June 30, 2009, compared to a net income of $780,960 for the three months ended June 30, 2008, a decrease of $96,894 (12%).  For the six months ended June 30, 2009, the Company had a net income of $1,713,310 compared to a net income of $1,740,950 for the six months ended June 30, 2008, a decrease of $27,640 (2%).  Total revenues decreased $1,169,150 (10%) to $10,653,244 for the three months and $2,848,843 (12%) to $21,241,671 for the six months ended June 30, 2009, compared to total revenues of $11,822,394 for the three months and $24,090,514 for the six months ended June 30, 2008.

Premium written (before reinsurance) is a non-GAAP financial measure which is defined, under statutory accounting, as the contractually determined amount charged by the Company to the policyholder for the effective period of the contract based on the expectation of risk, policy benefits, and expenses associated with the coverage provided by the terms of the policies.  Premium earned, the most directly comparable GAAP measure, represents the portion of premiums written that is recognized as income in the financial statements for the period presented and earned on a pro-rata basis over the term of the policies.  Direct written premium reported on the Company’s statutory statement decreased $25,543 (0%) and increased $640,252 (3%), to $9,907,397 and $20,524,405 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, compared to $9,932,940 and $19,884,153 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008.
 
 
 
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The $640,252 increase in written premium for the six months ended June 30, 2009, as compared to the prior year period is primarily attributed to new products introduced by the Company beginning in July 2008.  The principal method of competition among competitors is based on price.  While the Company attempts to meet such competition with competitive prices, its primary emphasis is on service, promotion, and distribution. The Company believes that rate adequacy is more important than premium growth and that underwriting profit (net earned premium less losses and loss adjustment expenses and policy acquisition costs) is its primary goal.  Nonetheless, Crusader believes that it can continue to grow its sales and profitability by continuing to focus upon three key areas of its operations: (1) product development, (2) improved service to retail brokers, and (3) appointment of captive and independent retail agents.

Premium earned before reinsurance decreased $583,237 (5%) to $10,222,303 for the three months and $1,856,036 (8%) to $20,096,450 for the six months ended June 30, 2009, compared to $10,805,540 for the three months and $21,952,486 for the six months ended June 30, 2008.  The Company writes annual policies and, therefore, earns written premium over the one-year policy term.

Earned ceded premium (excluding provisionally rated ceded premium) increased $134,580 (6%) to $2,359,124 for the three months and $167,388 (4%) to $4,614,112 for the six months ended June 30, 2009, compared to ceded premium of $2,224,544 in the three months and $4,446,724 for the six months ended June 30, 2008.  The increase in earned ceded premium is primarily a result of changes in the rates charged by Crusader’s reinsurers, offset in part by a decrease in direct premium earned.  The Company evaluates each of its ceded reinsurance contracts at inception to determine if there is a sufficient risk transfer to allow the contract to be accounted for as reinsurance under current accounting literature.  As of June 30, 2009, all such ceded contracts are accounted for as risk transfer reinsurance.  The earned ceded premium consists of both premium ceded under the Company’s current reinsurance contracts and premium ceded to the Company’s provisionally rated reinsurance contracts.  Prior to January 1, 1998, the Company’s reinsurer charged a provisional rate on exposures up to $500,000 that was subject to adjustment and was based on the amount of losses ceded, limited by a maximum percentage that could be charged.  That provisionally rated treaty was cancelled on a runoff basis in 1997.  Direct earned premium, earned ceded premium, and ceding commission are as follows:

   
Three Months Ended June 30
   
Six Months Ended June 30
 
               
Increase
               
Increase
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
(Decrease)
   
2009
   
2008
   
(Decrease)
 
                                     
Direct earned premium
  $ 10,222,303     $ 10,805,540     $ (583,237 )   $ 20,096,450     $ 21,952,486     $ (1,856,036 )
Earned ceded premium:
                                               
   Excluding provisionally rated ceded premium
    2,367,251       2,230,629       136,622       4,622,239       4,526,560       95,679  
   Provisionally rated ceded premium
    (8,127 )     (6,085 )      (2,042 )     (8,127 )     (79,836 )      71,709  
      Total earned ceded premium
    2,359,124       2,224,544       134,580       4,614,112       4,446,724       167,388  
                                                 
Ceding commission
    (705,726 )     (668,240 )     (37,486 )     (1,374,320 )     (1,357,643 )     (16,677 )
                                                 
Total earned ceded premium net of ceding commission
  $ 1,653,398     $ 1,556,304     $ 97,094     $ 3,239,792     $ 3,089,081     $  150,711  

Total earned ceded premium excluding provisionally rated ceded premium was approximately 23% of direct earned premium in the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, and 21% of direct earned premium in the three and six months ended June 30, 2008.  There was no significant change in the ceding commission rate.

In 2009 Crusader retained a participation in its excess of loss reinsurance treaties of 20% in its 1st layer ($700,000 in excess of $300,000), 15% in its 2nd layer ($1,000,000 in excess of $1,000,000), and 0% in its property and casualty clash treaty.  In 2008 Crusader retained a participation in its excess of loss reinsurance treaties of 20% in its 1st layer ($700,000 in excess of $300,000), 15% in its 2nd layer ($1,000,000 in excess of $1,000,000), and 0% in its property and casualty clash treaty.
 
 
 
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The 2007 through 2009 excess of loss treaties do not provide for a contingent commission.  Crusader’s 2006 1st layer primary excess of loss treaty provides for a contingent commission equal to 20% of the net profit, if any, accruing to the reinsurer.  The first accounting period for the contingent commission covers the period from January 1, 2006, through December 31, 2006.  The 2005 excess of loss treaties do not provide for a contingent commission. Crusader’s 2004 and 2003 1st layer primary excess of loss treaties provide for a contingent commission to the Company equal to 45% of the net profit, if any, accruing to the reinsurer.  The first accounting period for the contingent commission covers the period from January 1, 2003, through December 31, 2004.  For each accounting period as described above, the Company will calculate and report to the reinsurers its net profit (excluding incurred but not reported losses), if any, within 90 days after 36 months following the end of the first accounting period, and within 90 days after the end of each 12-month period thereafter until all losses subject to the agreement have been finally settled.  Any contingent commission payment received is subject to return based on future development of ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses.  In March 2007, the Company received an advance of $1 million from its reinsurer, and in February 2008, the Company received an additional $2,419,940 to be applied against future contingent commission earned, if any.  Based on the Company’s calculated and reported net profit (excluding incurred but not reported losses) as of December 31, 2008, the Company paid its reinsurer $311,616 in March 2009.  Based on the Company’s ceded losses and loss adjustment expenses (including ceded incurred but not reported losses) as of June 30, 2009, the Company recorded $1,822,568 of these net payments as an advance from its reinsurer and this amount is included in “Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities” in the consolidated balance sheets.  Thus, the Company has recognized $1,285,756 of contingent commission, of which $178,897 and $373,397 was recognized in the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively.
 
Investment income, excluding realized investment gains, decreased $352,417 (24%) to $1,144,332 for the three months ended June 30, 2009, compared to investment income of $1,496,749 for the three months ended June 30, 2008.  Investment income, excluding realized investment gains, decreased $750,804 (24%) to $2,368,459 for the six months ended June 30, 2009, compared to investment income of $3,119,263 for the six months ended June 30, 2008.  The Company had no realized gains or losses for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009.    The Company sold one fixed maturity investment in the six months ended June 30, 2008, with net realized gain of $6,306.  The decrease in investment income in the current periods as compared to the prior year periods is a result of a decrease in the Company’s annualized yield on average invested assets to 3.2% for the three months and 3.3% for the six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, from 4.1% for the three months and 4.3% for the six months ended June 30, 2008, respectively.  The decrease in the annualized yield on average invested assets is a result of lower yields in the marketplace on both new and reinvested assets.

The average annualized yields on the Company’s average invested assets are as follows:

   
Three Months Ended June 30
   
Six Months Ended June 30
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
                         
Average Invested Assets*
  $ 142,753,325     $ 147,096,706     $ 143,805,893     $ 146,222,505  
Total Investment Income
  $ 1,144,332     $ 1,496,749     $ 2,368,459     $ 3,119,263  
Annualized Yield on Average Invested Assets
    3.2 %     4.1 %     3.3 %     4.3 %

 
* The average is based on the beginning and ending balance of the amortized cost of the invested assets.

The par value, amortized cost, estimated market value and weighted average yield of fixed maturity investments at June 30, 2009, by contractual maturity are as follows.  Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without penalties.

    Maturities by
   Calendar Year
 
Par
 Value
   
Amortized Cost
   
Fair Value
   
Weighted
Average Yield
 
                         
December 31, 2009
  $ 22,700,000     $ 22,728,176     $ 22,812,200       3.5 %
December 31, 2010
    37,548,999       37,601,363       38,221,028       2.4 %
December 31, 2011
    19,809,998       19,885,136       20,495,076       2.9 %
December 31, 2012
    38,000,000       37,970,327       41,105,938       4.4 %
December 31, 2013
    9,100,000       9,092,602       9,479,531       3.3 %
   Total
  $ 127,158,997     $ 127,277,604     $ 132,113,773       3.3 %

The weighted average maturity of the Company’s fixed maturity investments was 1.9 years as of June 30, 2009, and June 30, 2008.  Due to the current interest rate environment, management believes it is prudent to purchase fixed maturity investments with maturities of 5 years or less and with minimal credit risk.
 
 
 
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As of June 30, 2009, the Company held fixed maturity investments with unrealized appreciation of $4,836,169 and held no fixed maturity investments with unrealized depreciation.  The Company monitors its investments closely.  If an unrealized loss is determined to be other-than-temporary, it is written off as a realized loss through the Consolidated Statements of Operations.  The Company’s methodology of assessing other-than-temporary impairments is based on security-specific analysis as of the balance sheet date and considers various factors including the length of time to maturity, the extent to which the fair value has been less than the cost, the financial condition and the near-term prospects of the issuer, and whether the debtor is current on its contractually obligated interest and principal payments.  The Company has the ability and intent to hold its fixed maturity investments for a period of time sufficient to allow the Company to recover its costs.

Gross commissions and fees decreased $61,036 (4%) to $1,354,357 for the three months and decreased $92,546 (3%) to $2,794,211 for the six months ended June 30, 2009, compared to commissions and fees of $1,415,393 for the three months and $2,886,757 for the six months ended June 30, 2008.

The decreases in gross commission and fee income for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, as compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, are as follows:
   
Three Months Ended June 30
   
Six Months Ended June 30
 
               
Increase
               
Increase
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
(Decrease)
   
2009
   
2008
   
(Decrease)
 
Policy fee income
  $ 530,957     $ 564,162     $ (33,205 )   $ 1,063,646     $ 1,143,020     $ (79,374 )
Health insurance program
    673,180       686,419       (13,239 )     1,360,123       1,358,877       1,246  
Membership and fee income
    65,029       76,132       (11,103 )     136,436       153,049       (16,613 )
Other commission and fee income
    60       6,165       (6,105 )     643       7,162       (6,519 )
Daily automobile rental insurance program:
                                               
    Commission income (excluding contingent commission)
    85,131       82,515       2,616       167,849       166,056       1,793  
    Contingent commission
    -       -       -        65,514        58,593       6,921  
Total
  $ 1,354,357     $ 1,415,393     $ (61,036 )   $ 2,794,211     $ 2,886,757     $ (92,546 )

Unifax primarily sells and services insurance policies for Crusader.  The commissions paid by Crusader to Unifax are eliminated as intercompany transactions and are not reflected as income in the financial statements.  Unifax also receives policy fee income that is directly related to the Crusader policies it sells.  Policy fees are earned ratably over the life of the related insurance policy.  The unearned portion of the policy fee is recorded as a liability on the balance sheet under Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities.  Policy fee income decreased $33,205 (6%) and $79,374 (7%) in the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2008.  The decrease in policy fee income is directly related to a decrease in the number of policies issued in the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, as compared to the prior year periods.

American Insurance Brokers, Inc. (AIB) markets health insurance in California through non-affiliated insurance companies for individuals and groups.  For these services, AIB receives commission based on the premiums that it writes.  Commission income decreased $13,239 (2%) and increased $1,246 (0%) in the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2008.  In November 2008, AIB entered into a General Agent Contract with Blue Shield of California who pays AIB override commissions for all business submitted to them.  Beginning in June 2009, CIGNA substantially reduced the medical plans offered to small group employers in the state of California, from sixteen plans to four.  All new employer groups and existing employer groups, on their anniversary date, will have the option to choose from the four available plans.  AIB will be assisting its CIGNA policyholders in obtaining new coverage in one of the four CIGNA plans or with other contracted carriers.  This reduction in CIGNA medical plans offered to small group employers in the state of California may result in a decrease in AIB commission income and AAQHC fee income.  AAQHC will continue to underwrite and administer all remaining CIGNA business, including dental plans for individuals and small group employers.

The Company's subsidiary Insurance Club, Inc., dba AAQHC An Administrator (AAQHC), is an administrator for CIGNA HealthCare and is a membership association that provides various consumer benefits to its members, including participation in group health care insurance policies that AAQHC negotiates for the association.  For these services, AAQHC receives membership and fee income from its members.  Membership and fee income decreased $11,103 (15%) and $16,613 (11%) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively.  This decrease was primarily a result of the reduction in CIGNA medical plans offered to small group employers in the state of California as discussed above.
 
 
 
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The daily automobile rental insurance program is produced by Bedford Insurance Services, Inc.(Bedford), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.  Bedford receives a commission from a non-affiliated insurance company based on premium written.  Commission in the daily automobile rental insurance program (excluding contingent commission) increased $2,616 (3%) and $1,793 (1%) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2008.

Losses and loss adjustment expenses were 61% of net premium earned for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, compared to 71% and 70% of net premium earned for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, respectively.  The decrease in losses and loss adjustment expenses as compared to the prior year period is primarily due to a decrease in current accident year losses incurred and an increase in favorable development of prior accident years’ losses and loss adjustment expenses.  The decrease in current accident year losses and loss adjustment expenses incurred is primarily related to lower reserves estimates for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses due to fewer policies sold and a decrease in net earned premium.

The following table provides an analysis of the losses and loss adjustment expenses as follows:
 
   
Three Months Ended June 30
   
Six Months Ended June 30
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
Increase (Decrease)
   
2009
   
2008
   
Increase (Decrease)
 
Losses and loss adjustment expenses:
                                   
  Current accident year
  $ 5,840,939     $ 6,378,563     $ (537,624   $ 11,182,234     $ 12,933,042     $ (1,750,808 )
Less: Favorable development of all prior accident years
    1,053,706       297,974       755,732       1,760,348       656,747       1,103,601  
     Total
  $ 4,787,233     $ 6,080,589     $ (1,293,356 )   $ 9,421,886     $ 12,276,295     $ (2,854,409 )
 
                                 
The Company’s consolidated financial statements include estimated reserves for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses of the insurance company operation.  Management makes its best estimate of the liability for unpaid claims costs as of the end of each fiscal quarter.  Due to the inherent uncertainties in estimating the Company’s unpaid claims costs, actual loss and loss adjustment expense payments should be expected to vary, perhaps significantly, from any estimate made prior to the settling of all claims.  Variability is inherent in establishing loss and loss adjustment expense reserves, especially for a small insurer like the Company.  For any given line of insurance, accident year, or other group of claims, there is a continuum of possible reserve estimates, each having its own unique degree of propriety or reasonableness.  Due to the complexity and nature of the insurance claims process, there are potentially an infinite number of reasonably likely scenarios.  The Company does not specifically identify reasonably likely scenarios other than utilizing management’s best estimate.  In addition to applying the various standard methods to the data, an extensive series of diagnostic tests of the resultant reserve estimates are applied to determine management’s best estimate of the unpaid claims liability.  Among the statistics reviewed for each accident year are loss and loss adjustment expense development patterns, frequencies (expected claim counts), severities (average cost per claim), loss and loss adjustment expense ratios to premium, and loss adjustment expense ratios to loss.  When there is clear evidence that the actual claims costs emerged are different than expected for any prior accident year, the claims cost estimates for that year are revised accordingly.  The accurate establishment of loss and loss adjustment expense reserves is a difficult process, as there are many factors that can ultimately affect the final settlement of a claim and, therefore, the reserve that is needed.  Estimates are based on a variety of industry data and on the Company’s current and historical accident year claims data, including but not limited to reported claim counts, open claim counts, closed claim counts, closed claim counts with payments, paid losses, paid loss adjustment expenses, case loss reserves, case loss adjustment expense reserves, earned premiums and policy exposures, salvage and subrogation, and unallocated loss adjustment expenses paid.  Many other factors, including changes in reinsurance, changes in pricing, changes in policy forms and coverage, changes in underwriting and risk selection, legislative changes, results of litigation and inflation are also taken into account.  At the end of each fiscal quarter, the Company’s reserves are re-evaluated for each accident year (i.e., for all claims incurred within each year) by a committee consisting of the Company’s chief executive officer, the Company’s chief financial officer, and an independent consulting actuary. The Company uses the loss ratio method to estimate ultimate claims costs on the current accident year.  The current accident year IBNR reserves are initially determined by multiplying earned premiums for the year by the expected loss and loss adjustment expense ratio, then subtracting the current accident year’s cumulative incurred (paid plus case reserves) to date.  This method is subject to adjustment based upon actual results incurred during the reporting period.  This initial IBNR reserve is adjusted as subsequent development of that accident year takes place.  The differences between actual and expected claims costs are typically not due to one specific factor, but a combination of many factors such as the period of time between the initial occurrence and the final settlement of the claim, current and perceived social and economic inflation, and many other economic, legal, political, and social factors.  Because of these and other factors, actual loss and loss adjustment expense payments should be expected to vary, perhaps significantly, from any estimate made prior to the settling of all claims.  Any adjustments to reserves are reflected in the operating results of the periods in which they are made.  Management believes that the aggregate reserves for losses and loss adjustment expenses are reasonable and adequate to cover the cost of claims, both reported and unreported.
 
 
 
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Policy acquisition costs consist of commissions, premium taxes, inspection fees, and certain other underwriting costs, which are related to the production of Crusader insurance policies.  These costs include both Crusader expenses and allocated expenses of other Unico subsidiaries.  Crusader's reinsurers pay Crusader a ceding commission, which is primarily a reimbursement of the acquisition cost related to the ceded premium.  Policy acquisition costs, net of ceding commission, are deferred and amortized as the related premiums are earned.  These costs were approximately 25% of net premium earned for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, and 24% of net premium earned for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008.  
 
Salaries and employee benefits decreased $117,198 (8%) to $1,281,200 for the three months and $125,288 (4%) to $2,710,149 for the six months ended June 30, 2009, compared to salary and employee benefits of $1,398,398 for the three months and $2,835,437 for the six months ended June 30, 2008.  The decrease was primarily due to the retirement of the then chief executive officer of the Company on April 1, 2009.
 
Commissions to agents/brokers decreased $22,975 (7%) to $295,186 for the three months and $30,675 (5%) to $608,977 for the six months ended June 30, 2009, compared to commission expense of $318,161 for the three months and $639,652 for the six months ended June 30, 2008.  The decrease in commission to agents/brokers is primarily the result of a decrease in commission expense on the health insurance program in the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, as compared to the prior year periods.
 
Other operating expenses increased $540,798 (69%) to $1,322,668 for the three months and $463,782 (30%) to $2,032,264 for the six months ended June 30, 2009, compared to $781,870 for the three months and $1,568,482 for the six months ended June 30, 2008.  The increase in other operating expenses is primarily due to an increase in the Company’s reserve for bad debts and the fees charged by the California Department of Insurance for performing its required tri-annual examination of the Company’s insurance subsidiary.  The Company’s bad debt expense increased $349,153 and $349,945 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively.  The increase was primarily due to a single agent’s failure to remit premiums due Unifax.  See Note 10, Contingencies.

Income tax provision was an expense of $311,992 (31% of pre-tax income) for the three months and $830,327 (33% of pre-tax income) for the six months ended June 30, 2009, compared to an income tax expense of $385,226 (33% of pre-tax income) for the three months and $871,537 (33% of pre-tax income) for the six months ended June 30, 2008.  This decrease in income tax expense was primarily due to a decrease in pre-tax income to $996,058 in the three months and $2,543,637 in the six months ended June 30, 2009, compared to pre-tax income of $1,166,186 in the three months and $2,612,487 in the six months ended June 30, 2008.

The effect of inflation on net income of the Company during the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, and the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, was not significant.
 
Forward Looking StatementsCertain statements contained herein, including the section entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” that are not historical facts are forward-looking.  These statements, which may be identified by forward-looking words or phrases such as “anticipate,” “believe,” ”expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “should,” and “would” involve risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of the Company.  Such risks and uncertainties could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements.  Factors which could cause actual results to differ materially include underwriting or marketing actions not being effective, rate increases for coverages not being sufficient, premium rate adequacy relating to competition or regulation, actual versus estimated claim experience, regulatory changes or developments, unforeseen calamities, general market conditions, and the Company’s ability to introduce new profitable products.

ITEM 3 - QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
 
The Company’s consolidated balance sheet includes a substantial amount of invested assets whose fair values are subject to various market risk exposures including interest rate risk and equity price risk.
 
 
 
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The Company’s invested assets consist of the following:
 
   
June 30
 2009
   
December 31
 2008
   
Increase
(Decrease)
 
                   
Fixed maturity bonds (at amortized value)
  $ 114,468,607     $ 135,140,354     $ (20,671,747 )
Short-term cash investments (at cost)
    15,291,795       9,502,033       5,789,762  
Certificates of deposit (over 1 year, at cost)
    12,808,997       400,000       12,408,997  
                         
     Total invested assets
  $ 142,569,399     $ 145,042,387     $ (2,472,988 )

There have been no material changes in the composition of the Company’s invested assets or market risk exposures since the end of the preceding fiscal year end.
 
ITEM 4T – CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
 
An evaluation was carried out by the Company's management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures as of June 30, 2009 (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) or 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934).  Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the design and operation of these disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

During the period covered by this report, there have been no changes in the Company's internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the evaluation required by paragraph (d) of Rule 13a-15 or 15d-15 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect the Company's internal control over financial reporting.


PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

 
ITEM 1A - RISK FACTORS
 
There were no material changes from risk factors as previously disclosed in the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008, in response to Item 1A to Part I of Form 10-K.

ITEM 2 – UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
 
The following table sets forth certain information with respect to purchases of common stock of the Company during the quarter ended June 30, 2009, by the Company.

 
 
 
 
 
Period
 
 
Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased
   
 
 
Average
Price Paid
Per Share
   
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased as Part
Of Publicly
Announced Plans
Or Programs(1)
   
Maximum
Number of Shares
that May Yet Be
Purchased Under the Plans or Programs(1)
 
                         
April 1, 2009, through April 30, 2009
    -       -       -       508,779  
May 1, 2009, through May 31, 2009
    2,150     $ 7.52       2,150       506,629  
June 1, 2009, through June 30, 2009
    1,025     $ 7.72       1,025       505,604  
   Total
    3,175     $ 7.58       3,175       505,604  

(1)  
In April 2000, the Company announced that its Board of Directors had authorized the purchase in the open market from time to time of up to an aggregate of 315,000 shares of the common stock of the Company.  On August 8, 2000, the Board of Directors authorized the purchase of an additional 315,000 shares and on September 6, 2000, the Board of Directors authorized the purchase of another 315,000 shares of the common stock of the Company in the open market.  On December 19, 2008, the Board of Directors authorized an additional stock repurchase program to acquire up to 500,000 shares of the Company’s common stock in the open market.  This brought the total shares of the Company’s common stock authorized to be repurchased to 1,445,000 shares since the year 2000.  The programs have no expiration date and may be terminated by the Board of Directors at any time.  During the six months ended June 30, 2009, the Company repurchased 9,863 shares of the Company’s common stock at a cost of $75,935 of which $4,797 was allocated to capital and $71,138 was allocated to retained earnings.  As of June 30, 2009, under the stock repurchase programs previously adopted by the Company, the Company had remaining authority to repurchase up to an aggregate of 505,604 shares of common stock.
 
 
 
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ITEM 4 - SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF STOCKHOLDERS
 
(a)  
On May 21, 2009, the Company held its Annual Meeting of Stockholders.
(b)  
Proxies for the meeting were solicited pursuant to Regulation 14 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; there was no solicitation in opposition to nominees of the Board of Directors as listed in the Proxy Statement and all such nominees were elected.
(c)  
At the meeting, the following persons were elected by the vote indicated as directors to serve until the next Annual Meeting of Shareholders and until their successors are duly elected and qualified.  There were no broker non-votes.

       Name
 
For
   
Withheld
 
             
Erwin Cheldin
    4,270,932       1,160,184  
Cary L. Cheldin
    4,256,815       1,174,301  
Lester A. Aaron
    4,150,530       1,280,586  
George C. Gilpatrick
    4,284,289       1,146,827  
Terry L. Kinigstein
    4,274,542       1,156,574  
Jon P. Kocourek
    5,285,699       145,417  
David A. Lewis
    5,176,527       254,589  
Warren D. Orloff
    5,282,878       148,238  
Donald B. Urfrig
    5,285,699       145,417  

 
ITEM 6 - EXHIBITS
 
 
31.1
Certificate of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
31.2
Certificate of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
32.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
32.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.


SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
 
                                                                                  UNICO AMERICAN CORPORATION

 
Date:        August 13, 2009                    By:          /s/ CARY L. CHELDIN
Cary Cheldin
Chairman of the Board, President and Chief
Executive Officer, (Principal Executive Officer)


Date:        August 13, 2009                    By:          /s/ LESTER A. AARON
Lester A. Aaron
Treasurer, Chief Financial Officer, (Principal
Accounting and Principal Financial Officer)

 
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EXHIBITINDEX 
 
Exhibit No.        Description
   31.1
Certificate of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).
   31.2
Certificate of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).
   32.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).
   32.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).