Oil prices slipped Monday, giving back some of a steep climb from Friday seen after Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said the kingdom would develop nuclear weapons if arch-rival Iran did. Underpinning prices are tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran, which are seen potentially disrupting global supplies. The Saudi crown prince visits the U.S. this week, which could provide plenty of headlines, as the Trump administration has called for a new look at the Iran nuclear pact. Trump told European leaders they must “fix the terrible flaws” in the deal or the U.S. would refuse to extend its sanctions relief on Iran. Click Read More below for additional information.

Earlier this month we lost a paper industry legend and a dear friend to many.  This is a close-knit business we find ourselves in and the relationships we build stand the test of time.  And so, it was with Tom Gallagher. Affectionately known as Moose to his friends, Tom was born in Portsmouth, Ohio in 1947. He left us on July 5 at the age of 77.  He lived his live to the fullest and those who knew him can attest to that.  Tom attended the U.S. Naval Academy and graduated from The Ohio State University in 1977.  He remained a lifelong and loyal Buckeye.  Many of us got to know Tom as the sales leader at MEAD during the 80’s and 90’s where he spent a majority of his career.  After retiring from Mead Westvaco in 2003 he was recruited to work for the  West Linn Paper Company and subsequently finished his paper career at Port Hawkesbury.   Tom was larger than life in so many ways.  He filled a room with laughter and energy.  You would not find a more loyal friend and partner.  But you did not want to test his Irish temper.  He encountered physical challenges later in life and it never got him down.  His spirit prevailed and he was always ready for the call.  As the Irish say, “his likes will not be seen again”.  And so, we leave him to the rest of his journey and cherish the memories he created with us. Tom had 4 children and 9 grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Cheryl (Rice) Gallagher.  Safe home Tom Gallagher.