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CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (Unaudited) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2011
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) [Abstract]
Net income (loss) attributable to Sterling common stockholders	$ (7,500)	$ 44
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests included in equity	(18)	0
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests included in liabilities	7,713	1,438
Add /(deduct) other comprehensive income, net of tax:
Realized (gain) / loss from available-for-sale securities	(299)	133
Change in unrealized holding gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities	180	(99)
Realized loss from settlement of derivatives	2	0
Change in the effective portion of unrealized gain in fair market value of derivatives	159	0
Comprehensive income (loss)	$ 237	$ 1,516

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The difference between the book value and the sale price of options, swaps, futures, forward contracts, and other derivative instruments. This element refers to the gain (loss) included in earnings.

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Change in accumulated gains and losses from derivative instrument designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges, net of tax effect. The after tax effect change includes an entity's share of an equity investee's Increase or Decrease in deferred hedging gains or losses.

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