That's all the information being released on contract talks between Wheatland Tube Co. and striking United Steelworkers Local 1660.

"There's a news blackout,'' said William Kerins, vice president at Wheatland Tube.

Messages left Tuesday for Local 1660's leaders were not returned.

Tuesday's negotiations were the first since Local 1660 rejected a company contract offer on Sept. 14. The local struck the Wheatland pipe and tube plant on April 28 after its previous contract expired.

Health insurance for current employees, retirees' insurance and a new hiring program have been the major sticking points in the talks.