Filed On 2/16/96 ˇ SEC File 0-07607 ˇ Accession Number 950144-96-576
As Of Filer Filing On/For/As Docs:Pgs Issuer Agent
2/16/96 Fair Grounds Corp 10-K 10/31/95 5:167 950144
Document/Exhibit Description Pages Size
1: 10-K Fair Grounds Corporation 10-K 92 379K
2: EX-10.U Loan Agreement 32 109K
3: EX-10.V Disbursement Agreement 11 33K
4: EX-10.W Commercial Security Agreement 31 115K
5: EX-27 Financial Data Schedule 1 6K
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995 Commission file number 0-7607
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FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
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(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Louisiana 72-0361770
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(State or other jurisdiction of (IRS Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)
1751 Gentilly Blvd., New Orleans LA 70119
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(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number including area code 504/944-5515
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Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class Name of each exchange on which registered
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Not applicable NONE
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Securities registered pursuant to Section 12 (g) of the Act:
Common Stock, No Par Value
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(Title of Class)
Indicate by a check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all
reports 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 report(s), and (2) has been subject to
such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes X No
--- ---
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to
Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained,
to the best of Registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information
statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any
amendment to this Form 10-K. [X]
The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates
of the Registrant was $2,432,860 computed by reference to the average bid and
asked prices of such stock on February 10, 1996.
The number of shares outstanding of the issuer's single class of
common stock was 468,180 as of January 31, 1996.
PAGE 1 OF 166 PAGES
EXHIBIT INDEX ON PAGE 92
PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
GENERAL OVERVIEW OF BUSINESS
Fair Grounds Corporation (the "Company"), which was incorporated in 1941, is
the owner of the Fair Grounds Race Course in New Orleans, Louisiana, at which
thoroughbred horse racing, off-track betting and video poker gaming are
conducted. The Fair Grounds Race Course currently is in its 124th racing
season, making it the third oldest thoroughbred racing track in the United
States. In addition to its live racing operations, the Company currently
operates five off-track betting facilities, referred to herein as tele-tracks,
at locations in St. Bernard, Orleans, Jefferson, St. John and LaFourche
Parishes, Louisiana, as well as a tele-track facility located at the Fair
Grounds Race Course. Through Finish Line Management Corporation ("Finish
Line"), an affiliate, the Company operates tele-track facilities in Terrebone,
St. Tammany and Jefferson Parishes, Louisiana. At each location, the Company
makes available pari-mutuel and video poker wagering and food and beverage
services to the public and receives revenues from such services. The Company
conducts its annual live racing meet and operates its tele-tracks for off-track
betting pursuant to the rules and under the authority of the Louisiana State
Racing Commission (the "Racing Commission"), a statutory body, the members of
which are appointed by the Governor of Louisiana. The Company's live races are
simulcasted to its tele-tracks and to other facilities located both inside and
outside Louisiana. Since 1992 the Company also has operated video poker gaming
devices at the Fair Grounds Race Course and each of the Company's tele-track
facilities.
DEVELOPMENTS DURING FISCAL 1995
New Tele-Track Facility
In October 1995, the Company opened a tele-track facility in Jefferson Parish,
approximately 10 miles from the Fair Grounds Race Course.
Progress of Construction
As previously reported, on December 17, 1993, a fire destroyed the main
clubhouse and grandstand building and all of its contents at the Fair Grounds
Race Course. During the remainder of December 1993, the Company made
arrangements for the installation of temporary racing and patron facilities and
contracted with equipment vendors, suppliers and contractors for the
installation of totalisator, television, lighting and other equipment necessary
to continue the live racing meet. During the two and one-half week period from
the date of the fire to January 5, 1994, the temporary facilities were
installed and the property was readied for the
reopening of racing. The Company spent in the aggregate $2.68 million in
preparing the temporary facilities for the reopening of live racing at the Fair
Grounds.
The temporary facilities were utilized throughout the balance of the 1993-94
racing season and for the entire 1994-95 racing season and continue to be used
at the present time. In addition, the Company's new tele-track facility at the
Fair Grounds Race Course, which also serves as a temporary clubhouse area, was
opened on December 22, 1994. It is a two-story building of concrete and steel
construction, aggregating approximately 20,000 square feet. The lower level
contains tables and chairs, a concessions area, mutuel machines and an area set
aside for video poker machines. The second floor contains an area of tables
and chairs which is currently being used as the clubhouse area. The new
facility was constructed on part of the area previously occupied by the old
main grandstand and clubhouse, and the glass-enclosed front of the building
overlooks the track. Those parts of the main grandstand and clubhouse which
were not totally destroyed by the fire have been torn down and all of the
debris has been removed. The total cost for debris removal and the
construction of the tele-track facility was approximately $3.2 million.
During the Summer of 1994, the Company approved the plans for a new main racing
facility and commenced construction of the foundation thereof in August 1994.
The plans call for the facility to be principally a multi-tiered concrete and
steel structure, with a total capacity of approximately 10,000 people. It is
anticipated that the size of the new facility, together with the new tele-track
building just completed, to which the new grandstand will be connected, will be
220,000 square feet in the aggregate. The old facility contained over 300,000
square feet. It is anticipated that there will be general seating in a
bleacher area in the front of the grandstand, with reserved seating, including
the new clubhouse area, to be located in tiered areas above the grandstand. In
a significant change from the design of the old building, it is anticipated
that the paddock will be located in the middle of the grandstand and may be
viewed through a glass area from all levels of the grandstand. The total cost
of the facility, together with furniture, fixtures, equipment and certain fees
and permit costs, was anticipated to be approximately $24.3 million at the time
construction commenced, which is in addition to the $3.2 million relating to
debris removal and construction of the tele-track facility, as described above.
As of January 31, 1996, construction of the facility was approximately 60%
completed, and the Company had incurred construction costs of approximately
$15.2 million. Insurance proceeds recovered to date and interim financing
provided by First National Bank of Commerce of New Orleans ("FNBC"), as
described below, provided the source of funds used in such construction.
However, for the reasons described below, further construction work
3
on the project has been halted. As a result (i) the cost to complete the
project cannot now be determined with any certainty and (ii) the Company
currently anticipates that it will continue to utilize the temporary tent
facilities and the tele-track facility at least during the remainder of the
current racing season and possibly for the next racing season.
Financing
As previously reported, the Company received and accepted a commitment letter
dated February 6, 1995 from FNBC for a non-revolving line of credit to be used
as an interim construction loan, convertible to a term loan. The aggregate
principal amount of such loan under the terms of such commitment was to have
been $17.5 million. The commitment from FNBC provided that the interim
construction loan was to have closed on or before March 31, 1995. However, the
parties agreed to various extensions of such closing date. FNBC indicated that
the principal reason for the delay was FNBC's concern with restrictions on and
the possible elimination of video poker gaming in Louisiana. See "Legislative
Action," below. Inasmuch as video poker franchise tax monies generated by the
Company and its tele-tracks were to be used for the repayment of the FNBC loan,
in accordance with the tax relief legislation described herein, any change in
the video poker gaming laws which restricts or limits video poker as a source
of revenue may have an adverse impact on such source of repayment.
Accordingly, final action on the full $17.5 million loan has been delayed until
after the 1996 Louisiana regular legislative session.
During 1995 FNBC provided the Company with short-term interim construction
loans of $2.15 million on July 17, 1995, $4 million on November 7, 1995, and $1
million on November 30, 1995. All of such financing was then consolidated
under a Loan Agreement dated as of December 18, 1995 between the Company and
FNBC (the "Loan Agreement"), pursuant to which the Company borrowed an
aggregate amount of $9,493,050 and utilized a portion of such funds to repay
the principal amount of the prior loans that was outstanding on December 18,
1995. The remaining amount borrowed was utilized to pay construction costs.
Pursuant to the Loan Agreement, FNBC agreed to extend credit to the Company up
to aggregate principal amount of $9,493,050 until October 31, 1996. The Loan
Agreement states that such commitment is not a revolving credit facility, and
the commitment is only to make loans up to such aggregate principal amount.
Accordingly, FNBC has no obligation under the Loan Agreement to lend additional
funds to the Company.
Payment of the principal and interest under the Loan Agreement is to be made on
demand, or if no demand is made, then in 10 monthly installments of $52,740
principal plus interest, beginning January 17, 1996, and one final payment of
all principal plus accrued
4
interest on October 31, 1996. The loan bears interest at 9% per annum. On
each monthly payment date, payment of principal and interest is to be made from
the proceeds of the funds received as a result of the video poker tax relief
legislation, which funds are to be on deposit in a separate lockbox, in
accordance with a Disbursement Agreement entered into among Company, FNBC and
Video Services, Inc. ("VSI") dated July 17, 1995. The Disbursement Agreement
provides that VSI acknowledges that the first $2.5 million in video poker
franchise fee payments otherwise due annually to the State of Louisiana are to
be remitted to the Company under the terms of the tax relief legislation. For
each annual period from July 1 through June 30, such funds are to be debited
from VSI's bank account and deposited into a lockbox at FNBC. Such proceeds
are to be used solely for the purpose of making payments of principal and
interest from time to time due under the terms of the Loan Agreement. Any
amount in excess of the amount of debt service, up to $2.5 million annually, is
to be applied as a prepayment of the principal amount of the loan, and any
excess is to be returned to the treasury of the State Louisiana. The Loan
Agreement also provides that any fire insurance proceeds (not including
proceeds payable to any third party) received by the Company are to be used to
prepay the loan.
The indebtedness under the Loan Agreement is secured by (i) a second mortgage
by the Company of all of its real property; (ii) a mortgage by Marie G. Krantz
of all the real property formerly constituting the Jefferson Downs Race Course;
(iii) a security interest in all the Company's accounts, inventory, equipment,
fire insurance proceeds, tax relief monies, construction property, material
contracts and all deposit accounts; (iv) a security interest in certain
investment securities owned by Marie G. Krantz; (v) a security interest in all
furniture, fixtures and equipment owned by the Company, Finish Line and
Jefferson Downs; (vi) a pledge by Richard Katcher, as Trustee u/t/a between
John G. Masoni and John G. Masoni, Trustee, pursuant to a restatement of his
Trust Agreement dated April 19, 1991 as modified on October 24, 1992 (the
"Trust"), Marie G. Krantz, individually and as Voting Trustee, Bryan G. Krantz,
Vickie Krantz and Jefferson Downs of an aggregate of 342,584 shares of common
stock of the Company, constituting all shares of common stock of the Company
beneficially owned by them (see Item 12, "Security Ownership of Certain
Beneficial Owners and Management" herein for a description of the amount of
such shares and the terms of such pledge agreements); (vii) a limited guaranty
of such indebtedness by Marie G. Krantz; and (viii) a guaranty of such
indebtedness by Finish Line.
The Loan Agreement provides that, commencing January 20, 1996, the Company will
deposit monthly into an account at FNBC all "Excess Cash Flow" generated during
the immediately preceding month. Excess Cash Flow is defined as all net income
for the month; plus or minus non-cash items such as depreciation and
amortization; plus or minus the changes in accounts receivable, inventory,
prepaid
5
expenses, accounts payable and accrued expenses, and any other operating
balance sheet related activity affecting the cash position; and plus or minus
capital expenditures. This obligation ceases if and when the 1996 Louisiana
regular legislative session adjourns without having theretofore passed any
statute that adversely affects the status of the video poker tax relief or the
existing video poker operations of the Company, Finish Line, or Jefferson
Downs, or that would allow for or require local elections as a condition to the
continuation of video poker operations; or if there is any such legislation
requiring local elections, the voters fail to approve any such adverse change.
Prior to the cessation of such obligation, the Company may not withdraw any
funds in such account, and FNBC has a security interest in such funds.
The Loan Agreement contains certain negative covenants pursuant to which the
Company has agreed that it will not (i) resume construction activities without
first providing FNBC with satisfactory evidence of the source of funding for
the balance of such construction; (ii) enter into any agreement with any
affiliate except to the extent that such agreements are commercially reasonable
and provide for terms which would normally be obtainable in arm's length
transaction with an unrelated third party; and (iii) incur capital
expenditures during any fiscal year in excess of $200,000 without the consent
of FNBC.
In connection with the Loan Agreement, the Company made a payment to Louie J.
Roussel, III of $1 million of the remaining $2 million principal balance owed
to him and agreed that the outstanding principal balance of $1 million will be
due and payable on October 31, 1996.
Insurance Recovery
As of January 31, 1996, the Company had received approximately $19.5 million in
insurance proceeds. Subsequent to the fire, the Company initiated several
legal actions to effect recoveries of certain insurance proceeds. The Company
filed an action against Allianz Underwriters Insurance Company and Royal
Indemnity Company, alleging that under Louisiana law such insurers were liable
to the Company in an amount equal to 10% of the amount of the unpaid insurance
proceeds, plus interest, attorney's fees and costs, for failure to pay the
Company's claims on a timely basis. During 1995, both Allianz and Royal,
without admitting liability, paid the Company certain amounts in settlement of
such actions. The Company also filed an action against Travelers Indemnity
Company of Illinois, in which the Company is seeking a judgment of
approximately $14.8 million, which is in addition to the insurance proceeds
received to date, on the grounds that the insurance policy issued to the
Company by Travelers was a "blanket" policy, thereby providing coverage for the
full insured value. Such actions are pending, and there can be no assurance
that the Company will be successful in any of its claims. See Item 3, "Legal
Proceedings."
6
It should also be noted that the insurer for AutoTote Limited ("AutoTote"), the
lessor of the Company's totalisator equipment, filed a subrogation action,
which is pending, against the Company and its general liability insurance
carrier, United National Insurance Company, for the loss of totalisator
equipment destroyed in the fire. The amount sought is approximately $1.2
million. Motions by the parties to determine coverage under the Company's
general liability policy are pending.
Legislative Action
In 1994 legislation was adopted which provides that owners of video poker
devices that are located in licensed establishments owned or operated by
licensed racing associations eligible for emergency relief under the statute
are exempt from the franchise payment otherwise due under the Video Draw Poker
Devices Control Law for a period not to exceed 15 years. The amount of the
franchise payment which otherwise would have been paid to the State of
Louisiana during the exemption period is to be remitted directly to the
licensed racing association, in an amount up to $2.5 million annually, and such
funds are to be used solely for providing emergency relief to the licensed
racing association. The use of funds by the licensed racing association is
subject to review and oversight by a legislative committee which may reduce the
amount of the authorized exemption if the racing association cannot satisfy the
committee that the exemption is necessary for its ongoing economic viability.
The legislation also provides that at such time as the emergency relief granted
under the act exceeds the required annual debt service on any indebtedness
incurred to address the emergency situation, such indebtedness not to exceed
$25 million, the excess of such funds is to be remitted to the state treasury.
During 1995, the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget approved the
dedication of funds received from the franchise tax relief described above
toward the exclusive use by the Company for making payments of principal and
interest to FNBC.
There is considerable uncertainty in Louisiana at the present time regarding
the future of the gaming industry. The cessation of construction and
subsequent bankruptcy filing by the land-based casino in New Orleans in
November 1995 has adversely affected tax revenues for both the State of
Louisiana and the City of New Orleans. Notwithstanding that loss of revenue,
consideration is being given by the Governor of Louisiana, who was elected in
November 1995, and other state officials to legislation which could curtail
gaming or the use of video poker gaming devices. In particular, the Governor
has indicated that he will call a special session of the legislature for the
purpose of considering legislation which would mandate local elections to
approve or disapprove gaming in a particular parish or locality.
7
Possible Future Financing
The Company believes that it was unable during 1995 to obtain the full amount
of financing originally committed by FNBC due to the uncertainty regarding the
future of video poker as a continuing source of revenue. The Company is
hopeful that the 1996 Louisiana regular legislative session will adjourn
without having passed any statute that would adversely affect the status of the
video poker tax relief previously granted to the Company or the existing video
poker operations of the Company or Finish Line, or that would allow for or
require local elections as a condition to the continuation of video poker
operations. No assurance can be given, however, that such legislation will not
be adopted. If adopted, such legislation will adversely affect the ability of
the Company to obtain long-term financing from FNBC in accordance with the
terms of the original commitment.
The Company has received a commitment from VSI to provide a non-interest
bearing loan in the principal amount of $1.5 million, in consideration for
which the Company is to agree to extend both the term of its agreement with VSI
and the term of the option period thereunder by two years. See "Video Poker
Operations" below. VSI's agreement to make such loan is conditioned upon the
closing of the anticipated long-term bank financing. The Company also has
recently received an advance of $1 million from VSI.
In addition to the foregoing, Marie G. Krantz has committed to make a $1
million loan to the Company, which would be conditioned upon the closing of,
and subordinate in right to payment to, the long-term FNBC financing. Although
specific terms of such loan have not been discussed, it is likely that the loan
would be interest-bearing, and that payments would be made after the repayment
of the FNBC financing. The Company is also engaged in discussions with
AutoTote concerning a possible commitment by AutoTote to lend or advance $2.5
million to the Company, such amount to be repaid through a subordinated loan
arrangement or through an extension of the lease terms relating to the
totalisator equipment.
In view of the cessation of construction and the additional expense which is
likely to be incurred as a result of construction delays, it is not certain
that, even if all of such financing is consummated, including the long-term
financing by FNBC in accordance with the terms of the original commitment, the
Company will be able to complete the construction of its new facility as
presently planned. It may be necessary to (i) obtain funds from other sources,
(ii) attempt to increase the amount of long-term financing from FNBC or (iii)
seek to effect savings in the construction costs related to the completion of
the facility. The Company has had no discussions with any other possible
source of such financing, nor has it reached any understanding with FNBC
regarding any increase in the financing which the Company hopes to obtain from
FNBC as originally committed by FNBC. It should also
8
be noted that FNBC and the Company are not currently engaged in any discussions
concerning the terms and conditions of the definitive agreements relating to
such long-term financing, given the uncertain legislative climate.
Accordingly, there can be no assurance that definitive agreements will be
reached, or, if reached, that they will be in accordance with the terms of the
original commitment. The foregoing uncertainties raise substantial doubt about
the Company's ability to continue as a going concern. In the event that such
long-term financing is not completed by October 31, 1996, or that the funds
provided through all sources of such financing are insufficient to meet the
Company's needs, the Company may consider a number of alternatives, including
seeking protection from creditors under the United States Bankruptcy Code. See
Item 7, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operation."
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
Live Racing Meet
Live Racing at the Fair Grounds Race Course. Annually, upon application and
after hearing, the Racing Commission grants to each of the horse racing tracks
operating in Louisiana certain dates during which live racing meets may be
conducted. Currently four licensees, including the Company, operate live
racing meets in Louisiana at various times during the year.
The Company's live racing meet generally is conducted annually from
Thanksgiving Day to late March. One other track in Louisiana, Delta Downs,
conducts its live racing meet during the same time period as the Company
conducts its live meet. Such track is smaller and conducts its live racing
meet approximately two hundred miles from New Orleans. Delta Downs also
simulcasts to and allows wagering to be accepted on its live races at the
tele-tracks to which the Company simulcasts its live races and at which
wagering on the Company's live races is accepted.
The Company's live racing meet for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995 was
conducted over 88 racing days. In the prior fiscal year, the Company's live
meet was conducted over 77 racing days, excluding 10 racing days that were lost
as a result of the fire. The total on-track handle, which is the amount of
money handled during the live racing meet through the Company's mutuel machines
at the Fair Grounds Race Course, was $25,134,326 in fiscal 1995, $26,110,964 in
fiscal 1994 and $38,565,606 in fiscal 1993. See "Sources of Revenue."
During its annual live racing meet, the Company attracts thoroughbred horses
from racing stables located in Louisiana and from nationally known racing
stables in Kentucky and elsewhere. Of the 8,311 thoroughbred starters at the
Fair Grounds Race Course
9
during the fiscal 1995 racing meet, approximately 41% were Louisiana-bred. The
live racing meet for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995 featured races with
guaranteed purses as high as $350,000, although the average purse was
approximately $16,000 per race and $159,400 per day. Total purse money
distributed during the 1995 fiscal year was in excess of $14 million.
For the fiscal year ending October 31, 1996, the Racing Commission has granted
the Company a license to conduct its live racing meet during the period from
November 23, 1995 through March 25, 1996, a total of 88 racing days, with live
racing being conducted generally five days a week (Wednesday through Sunday)
and with ten to eleven races during each racing day.
Simulcasting of Live Races. In addition to conducting live horse racing during
the live racing meet, the Company simulcasts its live races to, and allows
wagering to be accepted at, the tele-tracks which it operates in Orleans, St.
Bernard, St. John and LaFourche Parishes, Louisiana, the tele-tracks which are
licensed to the Company and operated by Finish Line, and tele-tracks operated
by the other horse racing tracks in Louisiana. The Company also simulcasts
live races to certain other wagering facilities located outside of Louisiana.
The Company has continued to experience significant increases in the demand for
the Company's races from out-of-state markets. Total handle from such out-of-
state markets during the fiscal 1995 racing season was approximately $92
million, a 119% increase over the previous racing season. The Company earns a
net commission (after payment of purses) of approximately 1.5% of out-of-state
handle.
Off-Track Betting
Ownership and Operation of Tele-Track Facilities. Legislation which was
adopted in 1987 in Louisiana authorizes off-track wagering, and such
legislation regulates the licensure by the Racing Commission of tele-tracks,
the ownership of such facilities, the commissions which can be earned on wagers
and other related matters. Pursuant to such legislation, in 1988 each of the
horse racing tracks then operating in Louisiana was granted a license to
operate tele-tracks at its racetrack and also within a 55-mile radius of its
racetrack, provided that the voters of the parish where the tele-track was to
be located approved the establishment of such a facility. The legislation also
provides that when two pari-mutuel racetracks are located within the same
55-mile radius, any tele-tracks opened in such areas are to be jointly owned
unless one of the eligible racetracks does not wish to participate. In 1987,
the Company and Jefferson Downs, which is now an affiliate of the Company and
which through 1992 conducted live racing at a facility located approximately 12
miles west of the Fair Grounds Race Course, reached an understanding with
respect to the operation of tele-tracks in the parishes located within the
55-mile radius of their respective horse racing tracks. When Jefferson Downs
ceased
10
its live racing in 1992, the Company and Jefferson Downs reached an agreement
whereby the Company, through Finish Line, operates the tele-tracks formerly
operated by Jefferson Downs. Total paid attendance at the Company's
tele-tracks (excluding the former Jefferson Downs tele-tracks) during the
fiscal year ended October 31, 1995 was 314,426, compared to 345,905 during
fiscal 1994 and 471,394 during fiscal 1993, and the total off-track handle at
such facilities during the 1995 fiscal year was $53,664,907, compared to
$55,713,253 during fiscal 1994 and $69,922,452 during fiscal 1993. See
"Sources of Revenue" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations."
During 1992 Jefferson Downs did not renew its license application with the
Racing Commission and, accordingly, did not conduct live racing in 1993. In
August 1992, Jefferson Downs assigned to the Company all of its right, title
and interest in and to the leases on its tele-track facilities in Terrebone,
St. Tammany and Jefferson Parishes, Louisiana, such assignment to be effective
as of the date the Racing Commission approved the transfer to the Company of
all licenses necessary for the operation of such tele-tracks. Such approval
was granted by the Racing Commission in May 1993.
On October 9, 1992, the Company entered into a Management Agreement (the
"Management Agreement") for Finish Line to operate the tele-track facilities
owned by Jefferson Downs and transferred to the Company, as described above.
The Management Agreement is for a term of ten years, commencing November 1,
1992, with the option granted to Finish Line to extend the term for two
additional five-year periods. The Management Agreement provides that Finish
Line is to have the exclusive responsibility for the direction, supervision,
management and operation of such facilities, is to collect all monies from such
operation and is to pay all expenses in connection therewith. The Company is
to receive 0.1% of the gross pari-mutuel handle at such facilities, and Finish
Line is to receive monthly compensation equal to the difference between the
gross receipts collected at such facilities less all expenses (including the
guaranteed payment to the Company) paid by Finish Line. In addition, Finish
Line is to indemnify the Company for, among other things, all obligations under
the leases assigned by Jefferson Downs to the Company. The Company believes
that this arrangement benefits the Company by, among other things, providing
additional funds to be set aside to supplement purses for live racing at the
Fair Grounds Race Course. See "Purse Supplements," below.
Simulcasting to Tele-Track Facilities. When a live racing meet is not in
progress at the Fair Grounds Race Course, horse races are simulcasted from
other tracks then conducting live racing in Louisiana as well as from various
race tracks throughout the United States hosting races of national prominence
to the Company's tele-tracks, to the tele-track facility located at the Fair
Grounds Race
11
Course and to other off-track tele-tracks. The Company generally is required
to make payments in the form of host track fees and purse supplements to those
tracks conducting live races which are simulcasted to the Company's
tele-tracks. The Company's tele-tracks generally are open daily, depending on
patron demands and race offerings, for afternoon and evening racing programs
which are simulcasted to the tele-tracks.
Purse Supplements. A portion of the handle generated at tele-track facilities
is required by Louisiana law to be set aside and used to supplement purses at
live racing facilities. Purse supplements are computed on a sliding scale of
5.5%, 6% and 6.5% on the tele-tracks' daily handle. Additionally, purse
supplements of 6.5% of handle are required on all wagers when off-track betting
is conducted at the racing facility of the primary licensee and an additional
1.5% of all "exotic" wagers at tele-track facilities is to be paid as purse
supplements. Race tracks are also allowed to retain the proceeds from uncashed
winning pari-mutuel tickets, up to $250,000 for each licensee's meet. Uncashed
pari-mutuel tickets exceeding $250,000 per race meet are to be remitted to the
State of Louisiana. During the year ended October 31, 1995, the Company
retained approximately $229,000 in such uncashed mutuel tickets as compared to
approximately $300,000 in fiscal 1994 and $369,000 in fiscal 1993.
Video Poker Operations
In June 1991, the Louisiana legislature enacted the Video Draw Poker Devices
Control Law, which grants pari-mutuel facilities the right to install and
operate an unlimited number of video poker machines. Such legislation also
allows other types of businesses, such as bars, truck stops and restaurants, to
operate video poker machines, but restricts the number of machines at those
establishments. See "Regulation." The law requires owners of pari-mutuel
wagering facilities such as the Company to set aside one-half of the net
revenues from such devices in excess of certain amounts and to use such amounts
which are set aside to supplement purses for live racing or, if live racing is
not then being conducted, to place such amounts in an interest-bearing account
and utilize them to supplement purses during the next live racing meet. Any
such funds which are earned from devices located at a tele-track are to be used
for purse supplements by the owner of the tele-track or, if it is jointly
owned, to be divided among the owners in proportion to their ownership
interests.
In February 1992, the Company, Jefferson Downs and Finish Line entered into an
agreement with VSI, whereby VSI was granted the exclusive right and license by
the Company to install, maintain and operate video draw poker devices at the
Fair Grounds Race Course and Jefferson Downs Race Course and at the tele-tracks
operated by the Company, Jefferson Downs and Finish Line. Such agreement is
for an initial term of five years, with an option by VSI to extend
12
the term for an additional five years. See "Possible Future Financing" above
for a description of the proposed commitment to extend such term. The
agreement provides that the Company is to receive a percentage of the revenues
from the operation of the devices installed at the Company's facilities. Such
percentage is to be calculated on the basis of the average amount collected
daily from each device during each month, after the payment of prizes, taxes
and fees. See "Sources of Revenue." The devices installed by VSI pursuant to
such agreement remain the property of VSI. As of October 31, 1995, there were
a total of 250 devices in operation at all of the Company's facilities. In
addition, there were a total of 449 devices at the tele-tracks operated by
Finish Line as of October 31, 1995.
The agreement also provides for the Company and Finish Line to share in an
annual promotional fee of $270,000 paid by VSI. During fiscal 1995, by
agreement between the Company and Finish Line, the total amount of such
promotional fee was retained by the Company. Of such amount, $135,000 was set
aside for purse supplements to be paid during the Company's 1995-96 racing
meet.
SOURCES OF REVENUE
General
During the last several fiscal years and in the current and future fiscal
years, off-track betting in connection with live racing meets has had and is
expected to continue to have a substantial impact on horse racing and
pari-mutuel wagering in Louisiana. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations." Through the development and
operation of the tele-tracks described herein, the Company has endeavored to
create additional revenue producing sites, the revenues from which have
partially offset declines in on-track attendance and handle and related
revenues since those off-track facilities began operation.
The Company's business continues to be seasonal as a result of the Company's
live racing season. The Company has received and should continue to receive a
majority of its revenues during the first and second quarters of its fiscal
year when its live racing meet is held. Prior to the commencement of off-track
wagering, the Company did not earn significant revenues in the third and fourth
quarters of its fiscal year. Because the Company's tele-tracks are now
operated year-round, the Company earns revenues throughout the fiscal year, but
on a smaller scale in the third and fourth quarters than in the first and
second quarters of its fiscal year. In addition, video poker operations are
conducted year-round; however, revenue from video poker operations generally is
higher during the months when live racing is conducted at the Company's race
track, since attendance there is higher during such period.
13
For information regarding the Company's operating revenues, income or loss from
operations, other income, net income or loss and total assets, see "Selected
Financial Data."
Income from Wagering
The principal component of the Company's revenue is generated from pari-mutuel
wagering, both on-track and off-track. In pari-mutuel wagering on horses,
those who wager on the first, second and third place horses share the total
stakes, or pool, less a percentage retained by the Company. The term "pool"
means the total amount wagered to win (first place), to place (second place),
or to show (third place) on every horse in a given race, or exacta and trifecta
wagers on certain combinations of horses. Under the pari-mutuel system,
bettors wager against each other and not against the racing facility, which has
no interest in which horse wins or loses. Racing facilities are authorized
under Louisiana law to retain a stated percentage of the total money handled
through the mutuel machines located at such racing facilities and their
tele-tracks on each racing day. Mutuel commissions range from 17% to 25% of
money handled depending upon the type of wager. For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1995, the Company received pari-mutuel commissions and related
income of $15.8 million, compared to $16.2 million for fiscal 1994 and $24.2
million for fiscal 1993. Total commission income less pari-mutuel taxes was
$14.1 million for fiscal 1995, $14.5 million for fiscal 1994 and $21.1 million
for fiscal 1993.
The Company also receives, during its live racing meet, a percentage of the
handle from all tele-tracks to which its races are simulcasted, except its own,
in the form of host track fees as compensation for the simulcasting of its
races to such facilities. The Company also pays host track fees to other
racing facilities for the simulcasting of races to the Company's tele-tracks.
For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995, the Company received host track
fees of $3.9 million and paid host track fees of $1.5 million. During fiscal
1994 the Company received host track fees of $2.5 million and paid host track
fees of $1.5 million and during 1993 the Company received host track fees of
$2.2 million and paid host track fees of $2.0 million.
Breakage, which is the residual amounts remaining in the betting pool after
winnings are paid out to the nearest dime, is retained by the racing facility
and tele-tracks as revenue.
Income from Video Poker Operations
For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995, revenue from video poker operations
was $1.1 million. In addition, the Company received $703,488 in video poker
tax relief revenues. As previously described, there were a total of 250
devices in
14
operation at the Company's facilities (not including the tele-tracks operated
by Finish Line) as of October 31, 1995.
Other Sources of Revenue
Additional revenue to the Company is generated from program sales, admission
charges collected by the racing facility and tele-tracks, parking, and food and
beverage services, all of which are operated directly by the Company. Pursuant
to its agreement with the publisher of the Daily Racing Form, the Company is
the wholesaler for sales of the Daily Racing Form in the greater New Orleans
area. For two weekends each year, after the live racing meet has concluded,
the infield of the Fair Grounds Race Course is used by a non-profit
organization in New Orleans to host a Jazz and Heritage Festival. As
compensation for the use of its facilities, the Company receives all revenues
from beverage concessions during the Jazz and Heritage Festival. The Company
and the sponsor of the Jazz and Heritage Festival have entered into an
agreement for the use of the Company's facilities through the 1997 Festival.
Revenues from the 1995 Festival were $1.2 million, compared to $1.1 million for
1994 and $0.7 million for 1993.
COMPETITION
The Company continues to face intense competition from other companies in the
gaming industry, including those which offer pari-mutuel wagering. Activities
which compete or which have the potential for competing with the Company's
racing facility, tele-tracks and video poker operations include riverboat and
dockside gambling, state-sponsored lotteries and video poker in restaurants,
bars, hotels and truck stops. All such activities are present in the State of
Louisiana or the Mississippi Gulf Coast area.
Pari-mutuel wagering for live races has experienced declining revenues for the
last several years, not only at the Fair Grounds Race Course but also at other
facilities located in Louisiana. The growth of gaming in the United States in
recent years has been reflected in various forms, including riverboats,
dockside gaming facilities, Native American gaming ventures, land-based
casinos, state-sponsored lotteries, and expanded off-track wagering
opportunities. According to information published by the Research Institute of
the South, gross wagering on live races declined nearly 12% nationally from
1982 to 1994, with much greater decreases in states that have introduced such
other forms of gaming. The impact of the lottery, video poker, and casinos or
riverboats on live racing in Louisiana has been felt by all of the existing
tracks; from 1990 through 1994 the average daily handle, on a statewide basis,
decreased by approximately 44%. Additional forms of gaming which may be
introduced in the future, as well as future expansions, additions and
enhancements to existing facilities by the Company's competitors, could result
in funds
15
being directed away from the Company's on-track and off-track facilities.
Horse Racing
The Company's racing facility and tele-tracks compete for patrons with a number
of sporting events and leisure time and entertainment activities in the New
Orleans area and throughout Louisiana, including race tracks and tele-tracks
owned and operated by three other licensees.
The Company also competes with other racetracks in Louisiana and throughout the
United States in securing high caliber thoroughbred horses to run at the
Company's racetrack. As a result of increased purses which should continue to
be available because of increased purse supplements to the Company, the Company
believes that the quality of racing at the Fair Grounds Race Course has
improved and will continue to improve.
Other Forms of Legalized Gaming
Louisiana Lottery. A state-wide lottery began operations in Louisiana in
September 1991. The Company believes that at its inception the Louisiana
lottery contributed significantly to a decline in the Company's average daily
pari-mutuel handle (consisting of both on-track and off-track wagering) at its
inception; however, the lottery has had little impact during the last several
fiscal years.
Casino Gambling. A number of dockside casinos are currently operating in or
near Biloxi, Mississippi, located on the Mississippi Gulf Coast approximately
60 miles east of New Orleans. Several other such casinos have been proposed
for the same area, and a substantial number of dockside gaming facilities are
in operation in Vicksburg, Greenville, Natchez, Coahoma County and Tunica
County, Mississippi.
The Louisiana Riverboat Economic Development and Gaming Control Act, which
became effective in July 1991, approved the conduct of riverboat gaming
activities on 12 separate waterways in Louisiana. The legislation authorizes
the issuance of up to 15 licenses to operate riverboat casinos within the
State, with no more than six in any one Parish. As of January 1, 1996, 14
licenses had been granted and there were 12 licensed riverboats in operation in
Louisiana, four of which were operating in the New Orleans area.
In 1992, the Louisiana legislature approved a single land-based casino to be
developed in downtown New Orleans. Such legislation provided that the casino
is to be the only such authorized casino in the State of Louisiana. The City
of New Orleans awarded contracts for the development and operation of such
casino project, and in May 1995 temporary gambling operations commenced and
16
construction on the permanent casino facility was begun. Construction was
halted in the Fall of 1995 when the casino filed for bankruptcy and all
gambling and construction operations have ceased. The Company does not believe
that
Video Poker Operations. As described herein, the Video Draw Poker Devices
Control Law allows pari-mutuel facilities to have an unlimited number of video
poker devices at such facilities. Any person who has been granted a license to
sell alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises may be granted a
license for the placement of devices on such premises; however, with the
exception of pari-mutuel facilities and truck stop facilities, a licensee may
not have more than three such devices. Truck stop facilities may have no more
than 50 devices. Devices which are placed in restaurants are to be operated
only in designated areas which are separate from the dining area of such
restaurants. The Company believes that there are numerous establishments
throughout the New Orleans area at which video poker devices are located;
however, the Company does not believe that the placement of such devices at
such other establishments has had a material adverse effect on the revenue
which has been generated from the operation of such devices at the Company's
racetrack and tele-tracks.
REGULATION
The Company's operation of pari-mutuel wagering at its racetrack and
tele-tracks is subject to extensive regulation pursuant to Louisiana law and
the rules and regulations of the Racing Commission, which govern, among other
things, (i) the awarding of licenses for the conduct of live racing meets; (ii)
the conduct of thoroughbred horse racing; (iii) the types of wagering which may
be offered by the Company and other pari-mutuel facilities; and (iv) the
disposition of revenue generated from wagering. Off-track wagering is also
regulated by the Racing Commission, pursuant to legislation enacted in
Louisiana in 1987 and described elsewhere herein. Such legislation, and
subsequent regulations adopted by the Racing Commission, govern the ownership
and operation of off-track wagering facilities, the commissions which
facilities may earn on wagers and the amounts which must be set aside as purse
supplements, as described elsewhere herein.
The Video Draw Poker Devices Control Law is subject to the regulation by the
gaming enforcement division of the Louisiana State Police. Such legislation
describes the specifications which must be met before devices can be utilized
in Louisiana, and also sets forth certain licensing, accounting and reporting
requirements. See "Legislative Action" above for a discussion of possible
changes to state law which may adversely affect video poker gaming.
17
EMPLOYEES
During its live racing season the Company employed on-track approximately 550
persons, including 170 in the mutuel department, 125 in the concessions
department, 65 in the security department and 190 in the administrative,
racing, parking, maintenance and publicity departments.
In connection with tele-track operations, the Company currently employs
approximately 320 persons including 100 in the mutuel department, 60 in the
catering department, 35 in the security department and 25 in the
administrative, admissions, maintenance and publicity departments, some of whom
are employed on-track during the live racing season and are included in the
total employees referred to above.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
The Company owns its racetrack site which consists of approximately 145 acres
of land held in fee ownership, situated within a fenced area adjacent to
Gentilly Boulevard in the New Orleans city limits, and within ten minutes drive
from downtown New Orleans. Located on such property is a one-mile oval, sandy
loam race track and a seven-furlong turf track inside the main track.
The Company currently leases its temporary facilities, consisting of the large
main tent previously described, as well as certain modular buildings containing
executive and administrative offices, and totalisator equipment.
The Company owns the newly completed tele-track facility described above, as
well as the new grandstand facility as to which construction commenced during
1995 but has been curtailed, as described above.
The Company also owns 50 modern concrete barns with supporting buildings and
facilities which are located on the property and are capable of quartering
approximately 2,000 horses. There is an all-concrete parking lot which can
accommodate approximately 4,000 vehicles within the fenced area.
Substantially all of the real property and equipment of the Company is subject
to a collateral mortgage in the amount of $10 million which secures the
Company's indebtedness to Louie J. Roussel, III, currently in the principal
amount of $1 million, as described in the Notes to the Company's Financial
Statements included herewith. In addition, all of the Company's real property
is subject to a second collateral mortgage in the aggregate amount of $17.5
million, and all of the Company's furniture, fixtures, equipment, and other
items of personal property are subject to a security
18
interest, which secure the Company's indebtedness to FNBC under the Loan
Agreement, as described above.
The Company leases the facilities for its tele-tracks under lease agreements
with various terms. The tele-tracks formerly licensed to Jefferson Downs and
now licensed to the Company are also leased; however, as described herein,
Finish Line has agreed to indemnify the Company for, among other things, all
obligations under the leases assigned by Jefferson Downs to the Company. See
Note 10 of Notes to the Financial Statements included elsewhere herein for a
description of the Company's lease obligations.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.
The Company is a party to a number of legal proceedings which have arisen as a
result of the December 1993 fire, or in connection with the Company's efforts
to collect insurance proceeds after the fire. The following is a brief
description of such fire-related proceedings:
1. On May 14, 1994 the Company filed an action in the 24th Judicial
District Court in the State of Louisiana against Travelers Indemnity
Company of Illinois ("Travelers") and others. The Company contends
that the insurance policy provided by Travelers provides the Company
with blanket coverage in the amount of $24.1 million in excess of the
$10 million of underlying coverage provided by Allianz Underwriters
Insurance Company ("Allianz") and Royal Indemnity Company ("Royal");
accordingly, the Company maintains that Travelers is liable for the
difference between $24.1 million and the amount already paid
(approximately $9.3 million), plus statutory penalties of 10% of the
amount not paid, interest, attorney's fees and costs. The Company
further contends that, in the event the court determines that the
amount of coverage is less than that claimed by the Company, then the
insurance agent and the insurance broker who arranged for the
insurance, are liable to the Company for any damages. Travelers'
position is that the excess policy did not provide blanket coverage,
and that its liability under such policy is limited to the amount
which it has already paid. Travelers filed a separate action in June
1994 in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana,
asking for a declaratory judgment that the policy did not provide
blanket coverage. The federal court action was dismissed and the
state court action is proceeding.
2. The Company filed an action against Allianz in March 1994, in the
Civil District Court for Orleans Parish. Allianz subsequently removed
the action to the U. S. District Court for the Eastern District of
Louisiana. The Company contended that Allianz, which was the
Company's primary insurer, failed
19
to pay the policy benefits of $5 million on a timely basis, thereby
subjecting it to statutory penalties of 10% of the amount not paid,
plus interest, attorney's fees and costs. The Company also alleged
that Allianz acted in bad faith in its handling of the claim. In
March 1995, prior to the commencement of the trial, the action was
settled without any admission of liability.
3. The Company filed an action against Royal in December 1994, in the
Civil District Court for Orleans Parish, alleging that Royal also
failed to pay on a timely basis under its policy. The issues in this
proceeding were substantially similar to the issues in the litigation
against Allianz described above. In October 1995, prior to the
commencement of the trial, the action was settled.
4. The Company filed an action in December 1994, in the Civil District
Court for Orleans Parish, against ADT Security Systems, the company
which provided and maintained the fire alarm system at the Fair
Grounds Race Course, and other defendants. The complaint seeks
unspecified damages, not otherwise compensated for by insurance, that
were allegedly caused by the negligence of one or more of the
defendants.
5. The Company and its general liability insurance carrier, United
National Insurance Company are defendants in a civil action filed in
December 1994 in the United States District Court for the Eastern
District of Louisiana, by St. Paul Mercury Insurance Company, the
insurer for AutoTote. The complaint alleges that such insurance
company is subrogated to the rights of AutoTote to collect damages,
and that it has paid AutoTote in excess of $1 million for the loss of
totalisator equipment at the Fair Grounds Race Course which was
destroyed in the fire. Subsequently, United National Insurance
Company filed an action against the Company, denying coverage for the
subrogation claim.
As to the pending matters described above, there can be no assurance that the
Company will be successful in any of its claims or defenses. Accordingly, no
assurance can be given that additional recoveries of insurance proceeds, if
any, will reimburse the Company adequately for the loss or destruction of its
property in the fire.
Except as described above, there are no material pending legal proceedings,
other than ordinary routine litigation incidental to its business, to which the
Company is a party or of which any of its property is the subject.
20
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
No matters were submitted to a vote of security holders during the fourth
quarter of the fiscal year covered by this report.
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER
MATTERS
Prior to March 1994, the Company's common shares were listed for trading on the
National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation ("NASDAQ")
System. Since that time, however, the common shares of the Company have not
been listed on NASDAQ or any other established trading market. Trading in the
common shares of the Company generally has been sporadic and trading volume
generally is very low. The range of high and low bid quotations for the two
most recent fiscal years by quarters as set forth below does not necessarily
reflect actual trades, but represents inter-dealer quotations without mark-up,
mark-down or commission, as reported by the National Association of Securities
Dealers, Inc. Quotations subsequent to March 1994 were obtained from Carr
Securities.
ˇ Download Table
Fiscal 1994 1994 1995 1995
Quarter Ended Low Bid High Bid Low Bid High Bid
------------- ------- -------- ------- --------
January 31 $ 9.00 $13.00 $ 16.00 $ 24.00
April 30 $ 9.00 $12.00 $ 16.00 $ 24.00
July 31 $ 9.00 $12.00 $ 20.00 $ 25.00
October 31 $10.00 $14.00 $ 20.00 $ 25.00
As of January 31, 1996, there were 457 shareholders of record of the 469,940
issued and outstanding common shares of the Company.
There were no cash dividends declared or paid during fiscal 1995 or fiscal 1994.
The Company paid cash dividends in the amount of $0.05 per share during each of
the four quarters of the fiscal year ended October 31, 1993 to the shareholders
of record on the dates the dividends were declared. Total dividends declared
and paid during fiscal 1993 were $93,652.
The Company is not subject to any restrictions (other than non-contractual
business considerations) affecting its present or
21
future ability to pay dividends with respect to its common shares, except that
the provisions of the Loan Agreement effectively preclude the Company from
declaring and paying dividends without the consent of FNBC.
See Item 7, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations".
22
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
For the Five Years Ended October 31
ˇ Enlarge/Download Table
1995 1994 1993 1992 1991
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
OPERATING REVENUES $23,031,031 $22,371,571 $30,718,482 $32,667,468 $31,913,874
OPERATING EXPENSES 26,394,452 26,094,568 34,308,263 32,192,537 30,505,367
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
INCOME (LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS (3,363,421) (3,722,997) (3,589,781) 474,931 1,408,507
INTEREST EXPENSE 12,318 284,926 502,624 661,092 960,207
OTHER INCOME 2,459,163 605,553 651,950 1,068,874 773,717
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE
INCOME TAXES, MINORITY
INTEREST, EXTRAORDINARY
ITEM, AND CUMULATIVE EFFECT
OF CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING
PRINCIPLES (916,576) (3,402,370) (3,440,455) 882,713 1,222,017
PROVISION (BENEFIT)
FOR INCOME TAXES (300,460) (1,878,635) (383,787) 123,509 244,316
MINORITY INTEREST - - 142,661 575,831 532,197
EXTRAORDINARY ITEM - GAIN
FROM FIRE (net of taxes) - 9,312,758 - - -
CUMULATIVE EFFECT OF
CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING
PRINCIPLES 104,000 (75,094) - - -
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
NET INCOME (LOSS) $ (512,116) $ 7,713,929 $(3,199,329) $ 183,373 $ 445,504
=========== =========== =========== =========== ===========
COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING 469,940 469,940 469,940 469,940 469,940
=========== =========== =========== =========== ===========
NET INCOME (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE $ (1.09) $ 16.48 $ (6.83) $ 0.39 $ 0.95
=========== =========== =========== =========== ===========
23
ˇ Enlarge/Download Table
CASH DIVIDENDS DECLARED PER SHARE $ None. $ None. $ 0.20 $ 0.15 NONE.
=========== ============ ============ ============ ============
TOTAL ASSETS $30,954,654 $ 26,470,322 $ 20,496,529 $ 20,919,257 $ 20,953,854
=========== ============ ============ ============ ============
NOTES PAYABLE (EXCLUDING
CURRENT PORTION) $ - $ 1,000,000 $ 6,000,000 $ 7,000,000 $ 8,359,721
=========== ============ ============ ============ ============
24
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
GENERAL
Fire. As previously reported, on the night of Friday, December 17, 1993, the
17th racing day in the Company's 87 racing day schedule for 1993-94, after the
conclusion of live racing for the day at the Fair Grounds Race Course, a fire
swept through and destroyed the grandstand and clubhouse facilities and all
their contents. Included in that area was the grandstand with a seating
capacity of approximately 10,000, the clubhouse facilities, the racing paddock,
and substantially all of the administrative, racing operations, and other
offices of the Company. As a result of the fire, racing operations at the Fair
Grounds Race Course, and all operations at the Company's tele-track facilities,
were temporarily suspended.
Immediately after the fire, management determined that it would be in the
Company's best interest to reopen the Fair Grounds Race Course and continue the
live racing schedule as soon as possible. Accordingly, during the remainder of
December 1993, the Company made arrangements for the installation of temporary
racing and patron facilities. During the two and one-half week period from the
date of the fire to January 5, 1994, the temporary facilities were installed
and the property was readied for the reopening of racing. Tele-track
operations were reopened on December 29, 1993, and the Fair Grounds Race Course
was reopened for live racing on January 5, 1994. In total, the Company lost 10
days of its 87 racing day schedule for the year ended October 31, 1994 due to
the fire, resulting in a substantial loss of revenues to the Company.
The Company currently continues to use its temporary facilities, Attendance
and handles continue to be less than the pre-fire levels as a result of the
limited amenities afforded by the temporary facilities. In addition, the
Company continues to feel the effects of competition from other gaming venues
in the greater New Orleans and surrounding areas.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
FISCAL 1995 COMPARED TO FISCAL 1994
Revenues. During the fiscal years ended October 31, 1995 and 1994, the Company
derived its pari-mutuel income by conducting live racing meets of 88 and 77
days, respectively, and in the operation of its tele-tracks for off-track
wagering. During each such fiscal year, the Company operated tele-tracks in
New Orleans at the Fair Grounds Race Course and on Bourbon Street, and at
locations in Lafourche, St. Bernard and St. John Parishes, Louisiana. On
October 26, 1995, the Company opened a new tele-track facility in Jefferson
Parish. Through Finish Line, the Company operated tele-
25
track facilities in Terrebonne, St. Tammany, and Jefferson Parishes, Louisiana,
that were formerly operated by Jefferson Downs Corporation.
For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995, the Company reported a net loss of
$512,116, compared to net income of $7,713,929 for the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1994. The net income for the fiscal 1994 year was the direct
result of the Company's recognition of an extraordinary gain attributable to
the December 17, 1993 fire. As a result of the fire in fiscal 1994, the
Company recorded an extraordinary gain of $9.3 million, net of related income
taxes of $5.4 million. The extraordinary gain is equal to insurance proceeds
received in excess of the net book value of the destroyed property, plant and
equipment. The extraordinary gain is also net of approximately $145,000 paid
to third party vendors in fiscal 1994 for losses to their property caused by
the fire. The Company had no extraordinary gain during fiscal 1995.
The Company's losses before the extraordinary gain and charge for cumulative
effect of change in accounting for income taxes were $616,116 and $1,523,735
for fiscal years 1995 and 1994, respectively. The significant decrease in the
loss from 1994 to 1995 was primarily the result of an increase in other income
during fiscal 1995.
For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995, the Company experienced an increase
in operating revenues of $659,460, or 3.0%, from the previous fiscal year. The
increase in operating revenues during fiscal 1995 is the result of a
significant increase in host track fee revenue partially offset by declines in
most other categories of operating revenue. Host track fees increased
$1,391,530, or 55.9%, from fiscal 1994 due to a significant increase in
out-of-state simulcasting of the Company's live races. For the 1995 fiscal
year racing meet, the Company reported $92 million in handle from out-of-state
simulcasting, compared to $42 million in handle for fiscal 1994.
While host track fees increased significantly, most other components of
operating revenue, including commissions, concessions, admissions, parking,
video poker and programs and forms, declined. Such declines are the direct
result of further decreases in attendance and pari-mutuel wagering from 1994.
Comparative in-state pari-mutuel wagering and attendance figures for the fiscal
years ended October 31, 1995 and 1994 are as follows:
26
ˇ Download Table
1995 1994
----------- -----------
Pari-mutuel wagering:
On-track handle $25,134,326 $26,110,964
Off-track handle 53,664,907 55,713,253
----------- -----------
Total Wagering $78,799,233 $81,824,217
=========== ===========
Attendance 445,480 475,557*
=========== ===========
* Note: Attendance figures for fiscal year ended October 31, 1994 are
estimated.
The decline in total wagering and attendance are primarily the result of the
limited amenities afforded by the temporary facilities as well as increasing
competition from other forms of gaming.
Racing Expenses. Racing expenses for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995
remained constant, increasing by only $58,262 from the prior fiscal year. Many
components of such racing expenses fluctuated significantly, including an
increase of $449,387,or 6.2%, in purse expense, primarily due to the increase
in out-of-state simulcasting, partially offset by declines in on-track and
off-track wagering. Contracts and services declined by $224,822, or 10.1%,
from the previous fiscal year, due to the decrease in various services and
relating to the temporary racing facilities.
Utility expenses decreased by $142,371, or 19.7%, from fiscal 1994, primarily
due to a change in pari-mutuel scheduling for some of the Company's smaller
tele-track facilities. During 1995, the Company implemented a four-day racing
schedule at such facilities, compared to a five-day schedule during 1994 and
previous years. The company also received during 1995 certain utility refunds
relating to excess charges from prior fiscal years.
General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses for
the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995 increased by $241,622, or 6.0%, from the
previous fiscal year, primarily as a result of increases in legal, audit and
director fees and an increase in office expense, partially offset by a
reduction in property taxes. Legal, audit and director fees increased
$227,356, or 30.5%, primarily due to the fire-related litigation. Office
expense increased $81,272, or 31.3%, due to increases in telephone expense
relating to increased out-of-state activity. Property tax expense declined by
$231,737, or 49.3%.
Other Income and Expenses. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995, other
income increased $2,126,218, or 636%, from the 1994 fiscal year due primarily
to $703,488 from video poker franchise tax exemptions and insurance proceeds in
the amount of $430,073.
27
FISCAL 1994 COMPARED TO FISCAL 1993
Revenues. During the fiscal years ended October 31, 1994 and 1993, the Company
derived its pari-mutuel income by conducting live racing meets of 77 and 86
days, respectively, and in the operation of its tele-tracks for off-track
wagering. During each such fiscal year, the Company operated tele-tracks in
New Orleans at the Fair Grounds Race Course and on Bourbon Street, and at
locations in Lafourche, St. Bernard and St. John Parishes, Louisiana. Through
Finish Line, the Company operated tele-track facilities in Terrebonne, St.
Tammany, and Jefferson Parishes, Louisiana, that were formerly operated by
Jefferson Downs Corporation.
For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1994, the Company reported net income of
$7,713,929 as compared to a loss of $3,199,329 for the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1993. The significant increase in net income for the fiscal 1994
year was the direct result of the Company's recognition of an extraordinary
gain attributable to the December 17, 1993 fire and recognition of a $2.5
million loss on a litigation judgment in fiscal 1993. As a result of the fire
in fiscal 1994, the Company recorded an extraordinary gain of $9.3 million, net
of related income taxes of $5.4 million. The extraordinary gain is equal to
insurance proceeds received in excess of the net book value of the destroyed
property, plant and equipment. The extraordinary gain is also net of
approximately $145,000 paid to third party vendors in fiscal 1994 for losses to
their property caused by the fire.
The Company's loss before the extraordinary gain and charge for cumulative
effect of change in accounting for income taxes was $1,523,735 and $3,199,329
for fiscal years 1994 and 1993, respectively. The fiscal 1993 loss was
primarily the result of recording an estimated liability at October 31, 1993 of
$2.5 million for a litigation judgment against the Company. The 1994 fiscal
year net loss before extraordinary item is primarily the result of the December
17, 1993 fire.
For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1994, the Company experienced a
$8,346,911, or 27%, decline in operating revenues from the previous fiscal
year. The decline in revenues is the direct result of a decrease in total
pari-mutuel wagering and attendance from the fiscal year ended October 31,
1993. Comparative pari-mutuel wagering and attendance figures for the fiscal
years ended October 31, 1994 and 1993 are as follows:
28
ˇ Download Table
1994 1993
----------- ------------
Pari-mutuel wagering:
On-track handle $26,110,964 $38,565,606
Off-track handle 55,713,253 69,922,452
----------- ------------
Total Wagering $81,824,217 $108,488,058
=========== ============
Attendance 475,557* 668,660
=========== ============
* Note: Attendance figures for fiscal year ended October 31, 1994 are
estimated.
The 24.6% decline in total wagering and the 28.9% decline in attendance are
primarily the result of the December 17, 1993 fire. As a result of the
declines in wagering and attendance, most of the components of the Company's
operating revenues declined from amounts reported for the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1993.
The Company believes the significant decline in total handle results primarily
from the fire, including actual racing days lost as well as the limited
amenities afforded by the temporary racing facilities, and from other gaming
venues in the New Orleans area, including dockside and riverboat gambling in
neighboring Mississippi and in the New Orleans area and video poker operations
by non-affiliated parties.
During the current racing season, the Company has continued to experience a
decline in on-track handle and handle from tele-track operations. Through 52
days of racing during the current season, on-track handle was $14.5 million,
which is approximately 17% less than the handle for the same number of racing
days during the 1993-94 racing season. Handle generated from the Company's and
Finish Line's tele-track operations has also declined from the prior racing
season. There has also been an approximate 16% decrease in the handle
generated from simulcasts of Fair Grounds races to other tracks and tele-track
facilities in Louisiana. On the other hand, handle generated from simulcasts
of Fair Grounds races to locations outside of Louisiana has increased
significantly. Through 52 racing days, the total out-of-state handle was $52.3
million, compared to $30.5 million for the same period during the prior racing
season.
Racing Expenses. Most of the components of the Company's racing expenses for
the fiscal year ended October 31, 1994 declined in the same proportion as the
decline in operating revenues. Fiscal 1994 depreciation expense, however,
increased over the fiscal year ended October 31, 1993 due to depreciation
associated with the Company's expenditure of $2.68 million for temporary
facilities, which have a useful life of approximately 30 months. Depreciation
expense for the temporary facilities in the amount of $890,000 was reported for
29
the fiscal year ended October 31, 1994. Additionally, for the fiscal year
ended October 31, 1994, the Company incurred approximately $530,000 in racing
expenses relating directly to the temporary facilities at the Fair Grounds Race
Course.
General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses for
the fiscal year ended October 31, 1994 decreased $2,770,440 or 42% from the
previous fiscal year primarily due to the accrual of a $2.5 million loss from a
litigation judgment during the fiscal year ended October 31, 1993. The accrual
was the result of a summary judgment affirmed by the United States Court of
Appeals against the Company in the amount of approximately $2.5 million for
alleged breach of contract with one of its vendors ("AmTote"). In August 1994,
after discussions among the representatives of the parties, the Company and
AmTote agreed to settle the claim for $2.3 million.
For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1994, the Company experienced significant
fluctuations in certain components of its general and administrative expenses
such as salaries and related taxes and benefits, insurance expense, and legal,
audit and director fees. Fiscal 1994 salaries and related taxes and benefits
declined $304,305, or 19%, from the previous fiscal year due to the Company's
elimination of various administrative positions, and a reduction in executive
salaries which took effect during the latter part of fiscal 1993. Insurance
expense increased $227,339, or 34%, from the fiscal year ended October 31, 1993
due to increases in various premiums as well as payments for insurance
deductibles owed for general liability and workers compensation claims. Fiscal
1994 legal, audit, and director fees increased $176,619, or 31%, from the
previous fiscal year due to various accounting and legal services in connection
with the Company's fire insurance litigation with its insurance carriers.
Other Income and Expenses. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1994, other
income increased $171,301, or 115%, from the 1993 fiscal year due to an
increase in Jazz and Heritage Festival income, an increase in interest income,
and a decrease in interest expense, offset by an increase in loss on
investments.
For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1994, the Company experienced an increase
over fiscal 1993 in Jazz and Heritage Festival income of $434,461, or 64%, due
to higher attendance at the Festival as a result of favorable weather
conditions. In the previous fiscal year, the Festival experienced inclement
weather. Interest income increased $162,194, or 9.4%, from the previous fiscal
year due to an increase in cash available for investing primarily as a result
of fire insurance proceeds received by the Company. Interest expense decreased
$172,698, or 37.7%, due to a $5 million payment on notes payable to Louie
Roussel, III and Victory Life Insurance Company as discussed in Note 5 of Notes
to the Financial Statements included herewith. Loss on the sale of interests
in partnerships
30
increased $581,361 from the previous fiscal year primarily due to the loss on
the March 1994 sale of the Company's interests in various partnerships.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Cash and cash equivalents decreased $6,920,720 during the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1995 compared to an increase of $5,256,885 during the fiscal year
ended October 31, 1994. The decrease in cash and cash equivalents in fiscal
1995 was the result of cash used for investing activities of $13,711,659,
partially offset by cash provided from operating activities of $5,084,796 and
cash provided from financing activities of $1,706,143. The cash used for
investing activities was in connection with the capital expenditures for the
completion of the new tele-track facility and the commencement of construction
of the new clubhouse and grandstand facility. Cash provided from operations
was primarily the result of an increase in accounts payable and accrued
liabilities due to an increase in construction contracts payable relating to
the new grandstand facility. Cash provided from financing sources was
primarily the result of a $2,150,000 bridge loan to the Company from FNBC, as
described elsewhere herein.
As of January 31, 1996, the Company had received $19,478,791 in insurance
proceeds resulting from fire loss claims submitted to the Company's insurance
carriers. The Company has filed suit against one of its insurance carriers, as
described elsewhere herein, seeking to recover an additional approximate $14.8
million under its insurance policy with such carrier.
The Company's new tele-track facility at the Fair Grounds Race Course, which
also serves as a temporary clubhouse area, was opened on December 22, 1994.
The total cost for debris removal and the construction of the tele-track
facility was approximately $3.2 million.
During the Summer of 1994, the Company approved the plans for a new racing
facility and commenced construction of the foundation thereof in August 1994.
The total cost of the facility, together with furniture, fixtures, equipment
and certain fees and permit costs, was anticipated to be approximately $24.3
million at the time construction commenced, which is in addition to the $3.2
million relating to debris removal and construction of the tele-track facility,
as described above.
As of January 31, 1996, construction of the facility was approximately 60%
completed, and the Company had incurred construction costs of approximately
$15.2 million. Insurance proceeds recovered to date and interim financing
provided by FNBC, as described herein, provided the source of funds used in
such construction. However, for the reasons described below, further
construction work on the project has been halted. As a result (i)
31
the cost to complete the project cannot now be determined with any certainty
and (ii) the Company currently anticipates that it will continue to utilize the
temporary tent facilities and the tele-track facility at least during the
remainder of the current racing season and possibly for the next racing season.
As previously reported, the Company received and accepted a commitment letter
dated February 6, 1995 from FNBC for a non-revolving line of credit to be used
as an interim construction loan, convertible to a term loan. The aggregate
principal amount of such loan under the terms of such commitment was to have
been $17.5 million. The commitment from FNBC provided that the interim
construction loan was to have closed on or before March 31, 1995. However, the
parties agreed to various extensions of such closing date. FNBC indicated that
the principal reason for the delay was FNBC's concern with restrictions on and
the possible elimination of video poker gaming in Louisiana. Inasmuch as video
poker franchise tax monies generated by the Company and its tele-tracks were to
be used for the repayment of the FNBC loan, in accordance with the tax relief
legislation described herein, any change in the video poker gaming laws which
restricts or limits video poker as a source of revenue may have an adverse
impact on such source of repayment. Accordingly, final action on the full
$17.5 million loan has been delayed until after the 1996 Louisiana regular
legislative session. During 1995 FNBC provided the Company with short-term
interim construction loans of $2.15 million on July 17, 1995, $4 million on
November 7, 1995, and $1 million on November 30, 1995. All of such financing
was then consolidated under the Loan Agreement, pursuant to which the Company
borrowed an aggregate amount of $9,493,050 and utilized a portion of such funds
to repay the principal amount of the prior loans that was outstanding on
December 18, 1995. The remaining amount borrowed was utilized to pay
construction costs. Pursuant to the Loan Agreement, FNBC agreed to extend
credit to the Company up to aggregate principal amount of $9,493,050 until
October 31, 1996. The Loan Agreement states that such commitment is not a
revolving credit facility, and the commitment is only to make loans up to such
aggregate principal amount. Accordingly, FNBC has no obligation under the Loan
Agreement to lend additional funds to the Company.
Payment of the principal and interest under the Loan Agreement is to be made on
demand, or if no demand is made, then in 10 monthly installments of $52,740
principal plus interest, beginning January 17, 1996, and one final payment of
all principal plus accrued interest on October 31, 1996. The loan bears
interest at 9% per annum. On each monthly payment date, payment of principal
and interest is to be made from the proceeds of the funds received as a result
of the video poker tax relief legislation, which funds are to be on deposit in
a separate lockbox, in accordance with a Disbursement Agreement.
32
In connection with the Loan Agreement, the Company made a payment to Louie J.
Roussel, III of $1 million of the remaining $2 million principal balance owed
to him and agreed that the outstanding principal balance of $1 million will be
due and payable on October 31, 1996.
There is considerable uncertainty in Louisiana at the present time regarding
the future of the gaming industry. The cessation of construction and
subsequent bankruptcy filing by the land-based casino in New Orleans in
November 1995 has adversely affected tax revenues for both the State of
Louisiana and the City of New Orleans. Notwithstanding that loss of revenue,
consideration is being given by the Governor of Louisiana, who was elected in
November 1995, and other state officials to legislation which could curtail
gaming, including the use of video poker gaming devices. In particular, the
Governor has indicated that he will call a special session of the legislature
for the purpose of considering legislation which would mandate local elections
to approve or disapprove gaming in a particular parish or locality.
The Company believes that it was unable during 1995 to obtain the full amount
of financing originally committed by FNBC due to the uncertainty regarding the
future of video poker as a continuing source of revenue. The Company is
hopeful that the 1996 Louisiana regular legislative session will adjourn
without having passed any statute that would adversely affect the status of the
video poker tax relief previously granted to the Company or the existing video
poker operations of the Company or Finish Line, or that would allow for or
require local elections as a condition to the continuation of video poker
operations. No assurance can be given, however, that such legislation will not
be adopted. If adopted, such legislation will adversely affect the ability of
the Company to obtain long-term financing from FNBC in accordance with the
terms of the original commitment.
The Company has received a commitment from VSI to provide a non-interest
bearing loan in the principal amount of $1.5 million, in consideration for
which the Company is to agree to extend both the term of its agreement with VSI
and the term of the option period thereunder by two years. See "Video Poker
Operations" below. VSI's agreement to make such loan is conditioned upon the
closing of the anticipated long-term bank financing. The Company also has
recently received an advance of $1 million from VSI.
In addition to the foregoing, Marie G. Krantz has committed to make a $1
million loan to the Company, which would be conditioned upon the closing of,
and subordinate in right of payment to, the long-term FNBC financing. Although
specific terms of such loan have not been discussed, it is likely that the loan
would be interest-bearing, and that payments would be made after the repayment
of the FNBC financing. The Company is also engaged in discussions with
AutoTote concerning a possible commitment by AutoTote to lend or
33
advance $2.5 million to the Company, such amount to be repaid through a
subordinated loan arrangement or through an extension of the lease terms
relating to the totalisator equipment.
In view of the cessation of construction and the additional expense which is
likely to be incurred as a result of construction delays, it is not certain
that, even if all of such financing is consummated, including the long-term
financing by FNBC in accordance with the terms of the original commitment, the
Company will be able to complete the construction of its new facility as
presently planned. It may be necessary to (i) obtain funds from other sources,
(ii) attempt to increase the amount of long-term financing from FNBC or (iii)
seek to effect savings in the construction costs related to the completion of
the facility. The Company has had no discussions with any other possible
source of such financing, nor has it reached any understanding with FNBC
regarding any increase in the financing which the Company hopes to obtain from
FNBC as originally committed by FNBC. It should also be noted that FNBC and
the Company are not currently engaged in any discussions concerning the terms
and conditions of the definitive agreements relating to such long-term
financing, given the uncertain legislative climate. Accordingly, there can be
no assurance that definitive agreements will be reached, or, if reached, that
they will be in accordance with the terms of the original commitment. The
foregoing uncertainties raise substantial doubt about the Company's ability to
continue as a going concern. In the event that such long-term financing is not
completed by October 31, 1996, or that the funds provided through all sources
of such financing are insufficient to meet the Company's needs, the Company may
consider a number of alternatives, including seeking protection from creditors
under the United States Bankruptcy Code.
IMPACT OF INFLATION
To date, inflation has not had a material effect on the Company's operations.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The following financial statements of the Company, including the notes thereto,
and the Report of Independent Certified Public Accountants are included
herewith:
Report of Independent Certified Public Accountants
Balance Sheets, October 31, 1995 and 1994
Statements of Operations for the Three Years Ended October 31, 1995
34
Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity for the Three Years
Ended October 31, 1995
Statements of Cash Flows for the Three Years Ended October 31, 1995
35
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
To the Board of Directors
and Stockholders of the
Fair Grounds Corporation
We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of the Fair Grounds Corporation
as of October 31, 1995 and 1994, and the related statements of operations, of
changes in stockholders' equity, and of cash flows for the years ended October
31, 1995 and 1994. These financial statements and the supplemental schedules
discussed below are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on
our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of
material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit
also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis
for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in
all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of October 31,
1995 and 1994 and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the
years ended October 31, 1995 and 1994 in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles.
As a result of the December 17, 1993 fire, the accompanying statements of
operations, of changes in stockholders' equity, and of cash flows for the year
ended October 31, 1993 and the schedules listed under Item 14(a)2 herein as of
and for the year ended October 31, 1993 were not audited by us and,
accordingly, we do not express an opinion on them.
36
The accompanying financial statements for 1995 have been prepared assuming that
the Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 12 to the
financial statements, construction of the Company's new grandstand/clubhouse
facility, which was previously destroyed in 1993 by a fire, has been halted
pending completion of bank and other external financing. The timing and the
amount of any financing ultimately obtained to complete the construction of the
Company's grandstand/clubhouse facility raises substantial doubt about the
Company's ability to continue as a going concern. The financial statements do
not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this
uncertainty.
Our audits were made for the purpose of forming an opinion on the basic
financial statements taken as a whole. The schedules listed under Item 14(a)2
herein are presented for purposes of complying with the Securities and Exchange
Commission's rules and are not a required part of the basic financial
statements. The schedules related to the 1995 and 1994 financial statements
have been subjected to the auditing procedures applied in our audits of the
basic financial statements and, in our opinion, are fairly stated in all
material respects to the financial data required to be set forth herein in
relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole.
As described in Note 1 to the financial statements, the Company adopted the
provisions of the Financial Accounting Standards Board's Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards No. 115 "Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and
Equity Securities", effective November 1, 1994.
/s/ Rebowe & Company
Metairie, Louisiana
January 19, 1996
37
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
BALANCE SHEETS
October 31
ˇ Download Table
ASSETS 1995 1994
----------- -----------
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,118,590 $ 8,039,310
Cash and cash
equivalents - restricted 154,909 -
Accounts receivable 854,281 593,200
Mutuel settlements 172,385 98,560
Securities available for sale 457,900 1,376,297
Insurance proceeds receivable - 487,341
Inventory 80,565 73,858
Deferred income taxes 59,940 20,940
Refundable income taxes - 566,289
Prepaid expenses 557,033 360,387
----------- -----------
Total Current Assets 3,455,603 11,616,182
----------- -----------
OTHER ASSETS 71,264 34,574
----------- -----------
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Buildings and improvements 13,881,970 10,206,873
Construction in progress 15,207,395 4,723,474
Land improvements 4,270,535 4,188,282
Temporary facilities 2,686,044 2,680,917
Automotive equipment 818,111 783,642
Machinery and equipment 789,347 680,562
Furniture and fixtures 171,497 155,672
----------- -----------
Total 37,824,899 23,419,422
Less: accumulated depreciation
and amortization (13,683,393) (11,886,137)
----------- -----------
Depreciable property - net 24,141,506 11,533,285
Land 3,286,281 3,286,281
----------- -----------
Property - net 27,427,787 14,819,566
----------- -----------
TOTAL ASSETS $30,954,654 $26,470,322
=========== ===========
(Continued)
38
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
BALANCE SHEETS (CONTINUED)
October 31
ˇ Download Table
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY 1995 1994
----------- -----------
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Notes payable - current $ 3,706,143 $ 1,000,000
Accounts payable 897,016 550,489
Construction contract
payable 4,864,199 1,654,820
Accrued liabilities:
Deferred purses 5,666,212 5,500,485
Host track fees 270,439 144,338
Uncashed mutuel tickets 259,606 284,388
Other 252,528 547,009
Deferred revenues 50,149 53,580
----------- -----------
Total Current Liabilities 15,966,292 9,735,109
----------- -----------
NOTES PAYABLE - 1,000,000
----------- -----------
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES 4,020,035 4,199,886
----------- -----------
Total Liabilities 19,986,327 14,934,995
----------- -----------
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES - -
----------- -----------
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Capital stock - no par value;
authorized 600,000 shares,
issued and outstanding
469,940 shares 1,525,092 1,525,092
Additional paid-in capital 1,942,350 1,942,350
Retained earnings 7,601,742 8,113,858
Unrealized loss on securities
available for sale (54,884) -
----------- -----------
Total 11,014,300 11,581,300
Less: treasury stock at cost,
1,760 shares (45,973) (45,973)
----------- -----------
Total Stockholders' Equity 10,968,327 11,535,327
----------- -----------
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY $30,954,654 $26,470,322
=========== ===========
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
39
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
For the Years Ended October 31
ˇ Enlarge/Download Table
Unaudited
1995 1994 1993
----------- ----------- -----------
REVENUES
Pari-mutuel commissions $15,766,962 $16,236,356 $24,154,352
Breakage 355,283 345,219 610,086
Uncashed mutuel tickets 229,358 299,586 368,886
----------- ----------- -----------
Total 16,351,603 16,881,161 25,133,324
Less: pari-mutuel tax (2,204,735) (2,425,262) (4,070,957)
----------- ----------- -----------
Commission income 14,146,868 14,455,899 21,062,367
Host track fees 3,878,400 2,486,870 2,243,653
----------- ----------- -----------
Total Mutuel Income $18,025,268 $16,942,769 $23,306,020
Concessions 1,596,941 1,627,681 2,547,670
Admissions (net of taxes) 339,319 458,825 890,965
Parking 14,401 36,992 140,239
Video poker 1,132,127 1,354,792 1,492,109
Programs and forms 1,317,547 1,462,243 1,803,726
Miscellaneous 605,428 488,269 537,753
----------- ----------- -----------
Total Operating Revenues $23,031,031 $22,371,571 $30,718,482
----------- ----------- -----------
RACING EXPENSES
Purses 7,754,856 7,305,469 10,121,228
Salaries and related taxes and benefits 4,895,632 4,960,205 6,276,511
Contracts and services 1,997,706 2,222,528 1,915,244
Depreciation 1,797,256 1,856,388 1,577,937
Host track fees 1,481,528 1,454,358 2,013,887
Program paper, forms and other supplies 1,250,947 1,392,729 1,665,728
Utilities 580,424 722,795 858,979
Advertising and promotion 701,860 636,834 760,879
Cost of sales - concessions 688,965 634,943 1,092,789
Repairs and maintenance 317,102 336,781 611,641
Rent 271,794 256,923 239,199
Miscellaneous 511,590 411,445 500,631
----------- ----------- -----------
Total Racing Expenses $22,249,660 $22,191,398 $26,734,653
----------- ----------- -----------
(Continued)
40
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31
ˇ Enlarge/Download Table
Unaudited
1995 1994 1993
---------- ---------- ----------
GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE
EXPENSES
Salaries and related taxes and benefits $1,287,744 $1,261,149 $1,565,454
Insurance 918,356 900,513 673,174
Property taxes 238,570 470,307 459,602
Legal, audit and director fees 973,249 745,893 569,274
Contracts and services 163,972 154,356 182,121
Office expenses 340,923 259,651 353,177
Litigation settlement - (200,000) 2,500,000
Miscellaneous 221,978 311,301 370,808
---------- ---------- ----------
Total General and Administrative Expenses $4,144,792 $3,903,170 $6,673,610
---------- ---------- ----------
LOSS FROM OPERATIONS (3,363,421) (3,722,997) (3,589,781)
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)
Jazz and Heritage Festival income - net $1,153,749 $1,112,887 $ 678,426
Video poker tax relief 703,488 - -
Insurance settlements 618,182 - -
Losses on sale and write-down of partnership investments - (604,363) (57,079)
Interest expense (12,318) (284,926) (502,624)
Interest income 95,825 179,376 17,182
Short-term loan closing costs (101,799) - -
Unrealized loss on securities - (104,000) -
Equity in earnings from unconsolidated
investments in affiliates - 59,849 13,421
Loss on sale of property, plant and equipment - (4,119) -
Loss on sale of securities available for sale (10,282) (34,077) -
---------- ---------- ----------
Total Other Income $2,446,845 $ 320,627 $ 149,326
---------- ---------- ----------
(Continued)
41
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31
ˇ Enlarge/Download Table
Unaudited
1995 1994 1993
--------- ----------- -----------
LOSS BEFORE INCOME TAXES, MINORITY INTEREST,
EXTRAORDINARY ITEM, AND CUMULATIVE EFFECT OF
CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES $(916,576) $(3,402,370) $(3,440,455)
PROVISION (BENEFIT) FOR INCOME TAXES (300,460) (1,878,635) (383,787)
MINORITY INTEREST IN EARNINGS OF SUBSIDIARY - - 142,661
--------- ----------- -----------
LOSS BEFORE EXTRAORDINARY ITEM AND CUMULATIVE EFFECT
OF CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES (616,116) (1,523,735) (3,199,329)
EXTRAORDINARY ITEM - GAIN FROM FIRE
(net of $5,363,801 of related
income taxes in 1994) - 9,312,758 -
CUMULATIVE EFFECT OF CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING FOR
INVESTMENTS IN 1995 AND INCOME TAXES IN 1994 104,000 (75,094) -
--------- ----------- -----------
NET INCOME (LOSS) $(512,116) $ 7,713,929 $(3,199,329)
========= =========== ===========
(Continued)
42
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31
ˇ Enlarge/Download Table
Unaudited
1995 1994 1993
------ ------ ---------
PER SHARE OF COMMON STOCK:
LOSS BEFORE EXTRAORDINARY ITEM AND CUMULATIVE EFFECT
OF CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES $(1.32) $(3.25) $(6.83)
EXTRAORDINARY ITEM, NET OF INCOME TAXES .- 19.89 .-
CUMULATIVE EFFECT OF CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES .23 (.16) .-
------ ------ ------
NET INCOME (LOSS) $(1.09) $16.48 $(6.83)
====== ====== ======
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
43
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
For the Years Ended October 31
ˇ Enlarge/Download Table
Unrealized
Loss On
Additional Securities Total
Capital Paid-In Retained Available Treasury Stockholders'
Stock Capital Earnings For Sale Stock Equity
---------- ---------- ---------- --------------------- ------------
Balance, October 31, 1992 $1,525,092 $1,942,350 $3,692,910 $ - $ (45,973) $ 7,114,379
Net loss (unaudited) - - (3,199,329) - - (3,199,329)
Cash Dividend
(per share $0.20)
(unaudited) - - (93,652) - - (93,652)
---------- ---------- ---------- --------- --------- -----------
Balance, October 31, 1993
(unaudited) 1,525,092 1,942,350 399,929 - (45,973) 3,821,398
Net income - - 7,713,929 - - 7,713,929
---------- ---------- ---------- --------- --------- -----------
Balance, October 31, 1994 1,525,092 1,942,350 8,113,858 - (45,973) 11,535,327
Net loss - - (512,116) - - (512,116)
Unrealized loss on
securities available
for sale - - - (54,884) - (54,884)
---------- ---------- ---------- --------- --------- -----------
Balance, October 31, 1995 $1,525,092 $1,942,350 $7,601,742 $ (54,884) $ (45,973) $10,968,327
========== ========== ========== ========= ========= ===========
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
44
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the Years Ended October 31
ˇ Enlarge/Download Table
Unaudited
1995 1994 1993
--------- ---------- -----------
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income (loss) $(512,116) $7,713,929 $(3,199,329)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to
net cash provided by (used for) operating activities:
Extraordinary item - gain from fire - (9,312,758) -
Depreciation 1,797,256 1,856,388 1,577,937
Gain (loss) on sale of property - 4,119 -
Equity in earnings from unconsolidated
investments in affiliates - (59,849) (13,421)
Provision for deferred taxes (218,851) (1,312,346) (322,308)
Loss on sale and write-down of partnership - 604,363 57,079
Unrealized loss on marketable securities - 104,000 -
Charge for cumulative effect of change in
accounting for income taxes and investment
securities - available for sale (104,000) 75,094 -
Loss on sale of investment securities 10,282 34,077 -
Loss on advance to affiliate - 7,500 -
Litigation settlement - (200,000) 2,500,000
Change in assets and liabilities:
(Increase) decrease in:
Accounts receivable (328,198) (2,617) (332,434)
Insurance proceeds receivable 487,341 - -
Inventory (6,707) 55,392 5,466
Refundable income taxes 566,289 (504,810) 140,306
Prepaid expenses (196,646) 41,172 54,886
Cash and cash equivalents - restricted (154,909) - -
(Continued)
45
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31
ˇ Enlarge/Download Table
Unaudited
1995 1994 1993
----------- ---------- ----------
Increase (decrease) in:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 3,582,759 (476,787) 1,955,563
Deferred purses 165,727 496,343 -
Deferred revenues (3,431) (93,129) (105,242)
Minority interest - (73,859) (13,328)
----------- ---------- ----------
Total Adjustments 5,596,912 (8,757,707) 5,504,504
----------- ---------- ----------
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities 5,084,796 (1,043,778) 2,305,175
----------- ---------- ----------
CASH FLOWS PROVIDED BY (USED FOR) INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Capital expenditures (14,625,149) (8,130,078) (240,866)
Acquisition of partnership interest, net of cash acquired - (172) -
Proceeds from insurance claims - 18,838,556 -
Payments to third parties on insurance claims - (145,052) -
Proceeds from sale of equity investments in affiliates - 535,000 -
Investment proceeds paid to affiliate - (214,000) -
Purchase of securities available for sale (763,872) (1,445,287) (1,703,557)
Proceeds from sale of securities available for sale 1,714,052 1,860,983 -
Distributions from investments in affiliates - - 45,000
Repayments on loans to affiliates - 2,802 27,682
Deposits (36,690) (2,089) 5,316
Proceeds from sale of property - - 71,895
----------- ---------- ----------
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities (13,711,659) 11,300,663 (1,794,530)
----------- ---------- ----------
(Continued)
46
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31
ˇ Enlarge/Download Table
Unaudited
1995 1994 1993
---------- ---------- ----------
CASH FLOWS USED FOR FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from short-term borrowings 3,533,443 1,000,000 350,000
Video poker tax relief payments (703,488) - -
Principal repayments of short-term borrowings (1,123,812) (1,000,000) (450,000)
Principal repayments of long-term borrowings - (5,000,000) (1,044,441)
Cash dividends paid - - (93,652)
---------- ---------- ----------
Net cash provided from (used for) financing activities 1,706,143 (5,000,000) (1,238,093)
---------- ---------- ----------
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS (6,920,720) 5,256,885 (727,448)
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR 8,039,310 2,782,425 3,509,873
---------- ---------- ----------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR $1,118,590 $8,039,310 $2,782,425
========== ========== ==========
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
47
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Preparation of October 31, 1993 Financial Statements
As a result of a fire, an audit of the October 31, 1993 financial statements
was not possible due to the destruction of the accounting records and
therefore, no opinion was expressed by the Company's independent certified
public accountants with respect to the financial statements as of October 31,
1993 and the fiscal year then ended. Management believes all material
adjustments which are necessary for a fair presentation of fiscal 1993
financial statements have been recorded.
Nature of Business
The Company conducts a live fall/spring race meeting for thoroughbred horses
and participates in inter-track wagering as a host track and as a receiving
track. In addition, the Company currently operates five off-track betting
facilities located in Southeast Louisiana, as well as a tele-track facility
located at the Fair Grounds Race Course.
Uninsured Cash Deposits
As of October 31, 1995 and 1994, the Company had deposits in various financial
institutions in the aggregate of $1,718,335 and $8,023,281, respectively. Such
deposits exceeded insured limits as of October 31, 1995 and 1994 by $1,206,763
and $1,491,622, respectively.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company considers all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with an
original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.
48
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
Cash and Cash Equivalents - Restricted
Cash of approximately $48,000 is restricted to pay certain future loan related
costs in accordance with a bank note payable obtained in fiscal 1995. In
addition, the Company has a certificate of deposit of approximately $107,000 as
of October 31, 1995 that is pledged as a security deposit for the Company's
worker's compensation program.
Inventory
Inventory consists primarily of food and beverage items and is stated at the
lower of cost or market. Cost is determined by the first-in, first-out method.
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment is stated at cost. Depreciation is provided by
the straight-line method. The estimated useful lives of the buildings range
from 20 to 40 years. Lives of other depreciable assets range from
approximately 3 to 20 years. Depreciation on the Company's temporary
facilities is provided by the straight-line method over an estimated useful
life of 3 years. For financial reporting purposes, leasehold improvements are
amortized over the lesser of the term of the related lease or the estimated
useful lives of the assets.
Deferred Revenues
Promotional fees received by the Company are deferred and recognized as income
over the following racing meet.
Securities Available for Sale
Effective November 1, 1994, the Company adopted a new accounting standard for
investment securities in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting
Standards ("SFAS") No. 115, Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and
Equity Securities. This accounting standard requires the Company to classify
its securities as held to maturity, available for sale, or trading. The
Company has classified all of its securities as available for sale and accounts
for them at fair value with the unrealized gain or loss shown as a separate
component of stockholders' equity. The effect of this accounting change is
applied prospectively; therefore, there is no restatement of prior year
amounts. Prior to November 1, 1994, the Company accounted for investment
securities in accordance with
49
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
SFAS No. 12, and, accordingly, investment securities were carried at the lower
of aggregate cost or market. The Company has reported the cumulative effect of
the change in its method of accounting for investment securities of $104,000 in
its Statement of Operations for the year ending October 31, 1995. The Company
records realized gains and losses on investment securities as they are sold,
using the specific identification method.
Uncashed Mutuel Tickets
Holders of uncashed winning pari-mutuel tickets have until 90 days after the
end of a given race meet to cash their winning tickets. Tickets that expire
become revenues of the Company, up to a maximum of $250,000 per race meet.
Uncashed pari-mutuel tickets exceeding $250,000 per race meet are remitted to
the State of Louisiana.
Income Taxes
Effective November 1, 1993, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standards
Board's Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") 109, Accounting
for Income Taxes. The adoption of SFAS 109 supersedes APB Opinion 11, which
was applied in fiscal year 1993 and prior. Under SFAS 109, deferred tax assets
and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to
differences between the financial statement amounts of assets and liabilities
and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are
measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the
years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or
settled. Under SFAS 109, the effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of
a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that included the
enactment date.
Pursuant to APB Opinion 11, which was applied in fiscal year 1993 and prior,
deferred income taxes are recognized for income and expense items that are
reported in different years for financial reporting and income tax purposes
using the tax rate applicable for the year of the calculation. Under this
method, deferred taxes are not adjusted for subsequent changes in tax rates.
The Company has reported the cumulative effect of the change in its method of
accounting for income taxes of approximately $75,000 in its Statement of
Operations for the year ending October 31, 1994.
50
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
Deferred Purses
Deferred purses include those amounts required by Louisiana law to be withheld
from commissions earned by an off-track betting licensee and paid as purse
supplements during the licensee's succeeding live racing meet.
Net Income (Loss) Per Share
Net income (loss) per share is determined by dividing net income (loss) by the
weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Per
share amounts were determined using 468,180 common shares outstanding.
Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications of previously reported amounts have been made to
conform with fiscal 1995 presentation. Such reclassifications had no effect on
previously reported net income.
NOTE 2 - EXTRAORDINARY ITEM - DECEMBER 17, 1993 FIRE
On December 17, 1993, a fire destroyed the grandstand and clubhouse areas at
the Fair Grounds Race Course. The net book value of assets destroyed in the
fire was approximately $4.5 million. The Company believes that its property
and casualty insurance policies provide coverage in the aggregate amount of
approximately $34 million for buildings, contents, fixtures, equipment, items
of personal property, loss of income from operations ("business interruption"),
and loss of works of art. The Company has submitted claims to its insurance
carriers and through October 31, 1995 had recovered an aggregate of
$19,478,791, of which the Company has paid approximately $145,000 to certain
third parties as a result of claims filed for property owned by them and
destroyed by the fire. The Company has filed a civil action against one of its
insurance carriers in an attempt to recover an additional approximate $14.8
million.
The Company and its tele-tracks were forced to cease operations for ten racing
days in fiscal 1994 as a result of the fire until temporary facilities could be
built. Temporary facilities were built at an aggregate cost of $2.7 million.
The Company reopened its tele-track facilities on December 29, 1993 and resumed
live racing operations on January 5, 1994.
51
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 2 - EXTRAORDINARY ITEM - DECEMBER 17, 1993 FIRE ((CONTINUED)
As a result of the fire, the Company recorded for the fiscal year ended October
31, 1994, an extraordinary gain of $9.3 million, net of related income taxes of
$5.4 million. The extraordinary gain is equal to insurance proceeds, which
includes $1,500,000 of business interruption insurance proceeds, in excess of
the $4.5 million net book value of the destroyed property, plant and equipment.
NOTE 3 - STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES
Cash paid during the following fiscal years for:
ˇ Download Table
1995 1994 1993
-------- -------- --------
Interest $245,296 $312,121 $502,624
The 1995 cash paid for interest includes capitalized interest of $232,979,
which is included in Construction in Progress at October 31, 1995.
There were no noncash investing or financing activities for fiscal years ended
October 31, 1995, 1994, and 1993.
NOTE 4 - SECURITIES AVAILABLE FOR SALE
At October 31, 1995, securities were classified as available for sale and
consisted of the following:
ˇ Download Table
Gross
Amortized Market Unrealized
Cost Value Loss
--------- -------- ----------
Preferred and common stocks $303,534 $269,900 $(33,634)
Municipal bond funds 209,250 188,000 (21,250)
-------- -------- --------
$512,784 $457,900 $(54,884)
======== ======== ========
During fiscal year ending October 31, 1995, proceeds from sales of securities
available for sale were $1,714,052 and gross realized losses from such sales
were $10,282.
At October 31, 1994, investment securities were accounted for at the lower of
aggregate cost or market. The total cost and market value of the investment
securities was $1,480,297 and $1,376,297, respectively, with an unrealized loss
of $104,000 charged to operations in fiscal 1994.
52
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 5 - NOTES PAYABLE
ˇ Download Table
October 31
---------------------------
1995 1994
---------- ----------
Victory Life Insurance Company;
Demand note, interest at the prime rate,
8.75% at October 31, 1995, secured by a
first mortgage note on certain property. $1,500,000 $1,500,000
Louie J. Roussel, III;
Demand note, interest at the prime rate,
8.75% at October 31, 1995, secured by a
first mortgage note on certain property. 500,000 500,000
First National Bank of Commerce ("FNBC");
Note, interest at 0.5% over the New York prime
rate (9.25% at October 31, 1995) secured
by a second mortgage note on certain property, and
342,584 common shares of the Company owned
in the aggregate by the Trust, the Krantzes, and
Jefferson Downs, due on January 17, 1996. 1,494,477 -
INAC Corp.;
Installment note - insurance premium financing;
interest at 6.98%, due February 1996. 211,666 -
---------- ----------
3,706,143 2,000,000
Less: Current portion (3,706,143) (1,000,000)
---------- ----------
Long-term portion $ - $1,000,000
========== ==========
On July 17, 1995, FNBC provided a short-term interim loan to the Company in the
amount of $2,150,000 ($1,494,477 outstanding balance as of October 31, 1995)
for construction costs relating to the rebuilding of the grandstand and
clubhouse facilities. As a result of this loan, the Company became eligible to
receive the benefit of
53
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 5 - NOTES PAYABLE (CONTINUED)
the video poker franchise tax exemption which was signed into law in 1994 under
the Video Poker Emergency Relief Act. During fiscal 1995 the Company
recognized $703,488 in video poker tax relief pertaining to the exemption.
These monies were applied to the interim loan and related interest.
See Note 13 related to subsequent events affecting notes payable.
NOTE 6 - INCOME TAXES
As discussed in Note 1, effective November 1, 1993, the Company adopted SFAS
109. The cumulative effect of the adoption of SFAS 109 of $75,094, as
determined as of November 1, 1993, is included as a reduction of income in the
accompanying fiscal year 1994 Statement of Operations. Prior years' financial
statements have not been restated to apply the provisions of SFAS 109.
The components of the income tax provisions (benefits) are as follows:
ˇ Download Table
October 31
--------------------------------------------
1995 1994 1993
---------- ----------- ---------
Current:
Federal $ - $ (469,048) $(56,495)
State - (97,241) (4,984)
---------- ----------- ---------
Total - (566,289) (61,479)
Deferred (300,460) (1,312,346) (322,308)
---------- ----------- ---------
Total $ (300,460) $(1,878,635) $(383,787)
========== =========== =========
For the year ended October 31, 1995 and 1994, the tax effects of temporary
differences that gave rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets
and deferred tax liabilities are presented below along with a summary of
activity in the valuation allowance.
ˇ Download Table
October 31
------------------------
1995 1994
------- -------
Current deferred tax asset:
General liability insurance $59,940 $22,940
------- -------
54
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 6 - INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED)
ˇ Download Table
October 31
----------------------------
1995 1994
----------- -----------
Non-current deferred tax assets:
Property 118,787 57,941
Net operating loss carryforward 765,122 550,974
Capital loss carryforward 24,110 107,187
----------- -----------
Total non-current deferred tax assets 908,019 716,102
Non-current deferred tax liability
Deferred tax gain on fire (4,808,801) (4,808,801)
----------- -----------
Net non-current deferred tax liability $(3,900,782) $(4,092,699)
=========== ===========
Valuation allowance at November 1, 1993 $107,187 $872,090
Valuation allowance utilized during the year (107,187) (872,090)
Valuation allowance established during the year 119,253 107,187
----------- -----------
Valuation allowance at October 31, 1994 $ 119,253 $ 107,187
=========== ===========
A reconciliation of the provision (benefit) for taxes on income at the
Company's federal statutory income tax rate to the tax provision (benefit) for
financial reporting purposes for fiscal year ending October 31, 1995 and 1994
is as follows:
ˇ Enlarge/Download Table
October 31
--------------------------
1995 1994
--------- -----------
Expected tax benefit $(276,276) $(1,156,806)
State income taxes (24,377) (102,071)
Change in valuation allowance 12,066 (764,903)
Non-deductible expenses 159,356 70,295
Additional realizable carryback credits (81,609) -
Additional realizable carry-forward net operating losses (89,620) -
Current statutory rate in excess of effective carryback rate - 74,850
--------- -----------
Actual tax benefit $(300,460) $(1,878,635)
========= ===========
55
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 6 - INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED)
A reconciliation of the provision (benefit) for taxes on income at the
Company's federal statutory income tax rate to the tax provision (benefit) for
financial reporting purposes for fiscal year ending October 31, 1993 is as
follows:
ˇ Download Table
Expected tax at statutory federal income tax rates
Increase (decrease) in taxes resulting from: $(1,218,260)
State income taxes net of federal tax benefit (107,493)
Non-deductible contributions, penalties, and other expenses 16,966
Reduction for unrealized deferred tax benefit 925,000
-----------
Actual tax expense (benefit) $ (383,787)
===========
The timing differences in the recognition of revenues and expenses for tax and
financial reporting purposes that result in a deferred tax expense as of
October 31, 1993 are as follows:
ˇ Download Table
Excess book depreciation $(159,294)
Current book expense not deductible in the current year (885,181)
Prior year book expense deductible in the current year -
Earnings from equity investments in excess of current book recognition (100,677)
State income taxes net of federal income tax (102,156)
Reduction for unrealizable deferred tax benefit 925,000
---------
Deferred tax expense $(322,308)
=========
As of October 31, 1995, the Company has a net operating loss carryforward and a
capital loss carryforward for financial statement and tax return purposes of
approximately $2.1 million and $10,282, respectively, which, if unused, begin
to expire in 2009 and 1999, respectively.
56
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 6 - INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED)
SFAS 109 requires an evaluation of the future realization of a tax benefit of
existing deductible temporary differences or a net operating loss carryforward.
This realization ultimately depends on sufficient taxable income of the
appropriate character, including reversals of existing taxable temporary
differences.
In future years, the Company will have reversals of taxable temporary
differences that will offset the net operating loss carryforwards of $2.1
million. At October 31, 1995 a valuation allowance has been established for
the Company's deferred tax asset for a portion of its net operating and capital
loss carryovers due to the uncertainty of its future realization.
The Company has recorded a deferred tax liability of $4,808,801 as a result of
the deferred gain on the fire for income tax purposes. The Company intends to
reinvest all fire insurance proceeds into new facilities currently under
construction within the two year roll-over period. Once constructed, the
Company will have a difference between the book and tax basis of such
facilities. This taxable difference will reverse out with the scheduled
depreciation of such assets.
At October 31, 1994 current income taxes of $555,000 related to the $1.5
million of business interruption insurance received are included net of the
extraordinary gain from the fire.
NOTE 7 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Fire Related Litigation
The Company is a party to a number of legal proceedings which have arisen as a
result of the December 1993 fire further described in Note 2, or in connection
with the Company's efforts to collect insurance proceeds after the fire. The
following is a brief description of such fire-related proceedings:
1. On May 14, 1994 the Company filed an action in the 24th Judicial
District Court in the State of Louisiana against Travelers Indemnity
Company of Illinois ("Travelers"), and others. The Company contends
that the insurance policy provided by Travelers provides the Company
with blanket coverage in the amount of $24.1 million in excess of the
$10 million of underlying coverage provided by Allianz Underwriters
Insurance Company ("Allianz") and Royal Indemnity Company ("Royal");
accordingly, the Company maintains that Travelers is liable for the
difference between
57
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 7 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (CONTINUED)
$24.1 million and the amount already paid (approximately $9.3
million), plus statutory penalties of 10% of the amount not paid,
interest, attorney's fees and costs. The Company further contends
that, in the event the court determines that the amount of coverage is
less than that claimed by the Company, then the insurance agent and
the insurance broker who arranged for the insurance are liable to the
Company for any damages. Travelers' position is that the excess
policy did not provide blanket coverage, and that its liability under
such policy is limited to the amount which it has already paid.
Travelers filed a separate action in June 1994 in the U.S. District
Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana, asking for a declaratory
judgment that the policy did not provide blanket coverage. The
federal court action has now been dismissed and the state court action
is proceeding.
2. The Company filed an action against Allianz in March 1994 in the Civil
District Court for the Parish of Orleans, State of Louisiana. Allianz
subsequently removed the action from state court to the United States
District Court for the Eastern Division of Louisiana. The Company
contended that Allianz, which was the Company's primary property
insurer, failed to pay the policy benefits of $5 million on a timely
basis, thereby subjecting it to a statutory penalty of 10% of the
amount not paid, interest, attorney's fees and costs. The Company
also alleged that Allianz acted in bad faith in its handling of the
claim. In March 1995, prior to commencement of the trial, the action
was settled without any admission of liability.
3. The Company filed an action against Royal in December 1994, in the
Civil District Court for Orleans Parish, alleging that Royal also
failed to pay on a timely basis under its policy. The issues in this
proceeding were substantially similar to the issues in the litigation
against Allianz described above. In October 1995, prior to the
commencement of the trial, the action was settled.
4. The Company filed an action in December 1994, in the Civil District
Court for Orleans Parish, against ADT Security Systems, the company
which provided and maintained the fire alarm system at the Fair
Grounds Race Course, and other defendants. The complaint seeks
unspecified damages, not otherwise compensated for by insurance, that
were allegedly caused by the negligence of one or more of the
defendants.
58
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 7 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (CONTINUED)
5. The Company is a defendant, along with its general liability insurance
carrier, United National Insurance Company, in a civil action filed in
December 1994 in the United States District Court for the Eastern
District of Louisiana by St. Paul Mercury Insurance Company, the
insurer for AutoTote. The complaint alleges that such insurance
company is subrogated to the rights of AutoTote to collect damages,
and that it has paid AutoTote in excess of $1 million for the loss of
totalisator equipment at the Fair Grounds Race Course which was
destroyed in the fire. Subsequently, United National Insurance
Company has filed suit against the Company seeking to deny coverage
for such subrogation claim.
As to the pending matters described above, there can be no assurance that the
Company will be successful in any of its claims or defenses. Accordingly, no
assurance can be given that additional recoveries of insurance proceeds, if
any, will reimburse the Company adequately for the loss or destruction of its
property in the fire.
Except as described above, there are no material pending legal proceedings,
other than ordinary routine litigation incidental to its business, to which the
Company is a party or of which any of its property is the subject.
Status of Construction of Facilities
A new tele-track facility and temporary clubhouse area was opened on December
22, 1994. The total cost for debris removal and the construction of the
tele-track was approximately $3.2 million.
During the Summer of 1994, the Company approved the plans for a new main
facility. The total cost of the facility, together with furniture, fixtures,
equipment and certain fees and permit costs, was anticipated to be
approximately $25.3 million at the time construction commenced.
As of October 31, 1995, construction of the facility was approximately 60%
completed, and the Company had incurred construction costs of approximately
$15.2 million. Insurance proceeds recovered to date and interim bank financing
provided the source of funds used in such construction. However, for the
reasons described below, further construction work on the project has been
halted. As a result, the cost and timing to complete the project cannot now be
determined with any certainty.
59
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 7 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (CONTINUED)
Construction Financing
As previously reported, the Company received and accepted a commitment letter
dated February 6, 1995 from FNBC for a non-revolving line of credit to be used
as an interim construction loan, convertible to a term loan. The aggregate
principal amount of such loan under the terms of such commitment was to have
been $17.5 million. The commitment from FNBC provided that the interim
construction loan was to have closed on or before March 31, 1995. However, the
parties agreed to various extensions of such closing date. FNBC indicated that
the principal reason for the delay was FNBC's concern with restrictions on and
the possible elimination of video poker gaming in Louisiana. Inasmuch as video
poker franchise tax monies generated by the Company and its tele-tracks were to
be used for the repayment of the FNBC loan, in accordance with the tax relief
legislation described below, any changes in the video poker gaming laws which
restricts or limits video poker as a source of revenue may have an adverse
impact on such source of repayment. Accordingly, final action on the full
$17.5 million loan has been delayed until after the 1996 Louisiana regular
legislative session.
In 1994, legislation was adopted which provides that owners of video poker
devices that are located in licensed establishments owned or operated by
licensed racing associations eligible for emergency relief under the statute
are exempt from the franchise payment otherwise due under the Video Draw Poker
Devices Control Law for a period not to exceed 15 years. The amount of the
franchise payment which otherwise would have been paid to the State of
Louisiana during the exemption period is to be remitted directly to the
licensed racing association, in an amount up to $2.5 million annually, and such
funds are to be used for providing emergency relief to the licensed racing
association. The use of funds by the licensed racing association is subject to
review and oversight by a legislative committee, which may reduce the amount of
the authorized exemption if the racing association cannot satisfy the committee
that the exemption is necessary for its ongoing economic viability. The
legislation also provides that at such time as the emergency relief granted
under the act exceeds the required annual debt service on any indebtedness
incurred to address the emergency situation, such indebtedness not to exceed
$25 million, the excess of such funds is to be remitted to the state treasury.
During 1995, the Joint Legislation Committee on the Budget approved the
dedication of funds received from the franchise tax relief described above
toward the exclusive use by the Company for making principal and interest
payments to FNBC.
60
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 7 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (CONTINUED)
Interim Financing
During 1995, FNBC provided the Company with short-term interim construction
loans of $2.15 million on July 17, 1995. In addition, as further described in
Note 13, FNBC provided the Company with an additional $4 million on November 7,
1995, and $1 million on November 30, 1995. As also described in Note 13, all
of such financing was then consolidated under a Loan Agreement dated as of
December 18, 1995 between the Company and FNBC, pursuant to which the Company
borrowed an aggregate amount of $9,493,050 and utilized a portion of such funds
to repay the principal amount of the prior loans that was outstanding on
December 18, 1995. The remaining amount borrowed was utilized to pay
construction costs.
Possible Future Financing
The Company believes that it was unable during 1995 to obtain the full amount
of financing originally committed by FNBC due to the uncertainty regarding the
future of video poker as a continuing source of revenue. The Company is
hopeful that the 1996 Louisiana regular legislative session will adjourn
without having passed any statute that would adversely affect the status of the
video poker tax relief previously granted to the Company or the existing video
poker operations of the Company or Finish Line, or that would allow for or
require local elections as a condition to the continuation of video poker
operations. No assurance can be given, however, that such legislation will not
be adopted. If adopted, such legislation will adversely affect the ability of
the Company to obtain long-term financing from FNBC in accordance with the
terms of the original commitment.
The Company has received a commitment from VSI to provide a non-interest
bearing loan in the principal amount of $1.5 million, in consideration for
which the Company is to agree to extend both the term of its agreement with VSI
and the term of the option period thereunder by two years. The loan from VSI
is conditioned upon the closing of the long-term bank financing.
In addition to the foregoing, Marie G. Krantz (Chairman of the Board of
Directors and Treasurer of the Company) has committed to make a $1 million loan
to the Company, which would be conditioned upon the closing of, and subordinate
in right of payment to the permanent FNBC financing. Although specific terms
of such loans have not been discussed, it is likely that the loan would be
interest-bearing, and that payments would
61
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 7 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (CONTINUED)
be made after the repayment of the FNBC financing. The Company is also engaged
in discussions with AutoTote concerning a possible commitment by AutoTote to
lend or advance $2.5 million to the Company, such amount to be repaid through a
subordinated loan arrangement or through an extension of the lease terms
relating to the totalisator equipment.
See Note 12 - Contingencies - Going Concern as to the Company's ability to
finance the completion of construction of its facilities and to continue as a
going concern.
NOTE 8 - AMTOTE LITIGATION SETTLEMENT
The Company was a defendant in a lawsuit filed in federal court in Louisiana by
American Totalisator Company, Inc. ("AmTote"), for alleged breach of contract.
In 1992, AmTote was awarded a judgment against the Company in the amount of
$2.2 million plus attorney's fees, costs and interest. As a result of the
judgment, the Company recorded an estimated liability of $2.5 million for the
year ended October 31, 1993. In September 1993, the federal court of appeals
affirmed the judgment in favor of AmTote. In August 1994, after discussions
among the representatives of the parties, the Company and AmTote settled the
claim for $2.3 million.
NOTE 9 - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Marie G. Krantz, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Treasurer of the
Company, has voting control over 339,604 shares of common stock of the Company
(72.27% of the outstanding common stock of the Company) owned by the Masoni
Trust. In addition, Marie G. Krantz and Bryan G. Krantz together are the
beneficial owners of 100% of the outstanding shares of Jefferson Downs
Corporation.
62
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 9 - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (CONTINUED)
In August 1992, the Company entered into a Management Agreement with Finish
Line Management Corporation ("Finish Line"), which is beneficially owned by
Marie G. Krantz and Bryan G. Krantz, to operate five tele-track facilities
previously operated by Jefferson Downs for a period of ten years, commencing
November 1, 1992, with the option granted to Finish Line to extend the term of
the Management Agreement for two additional five year periods. The Management
Agreement provides that Finish Line is to have the exclusive responsibility for
the direction, supervision, management and operation of such facilities, is to
collect all monies from such operation and is to pay all expenses in connection
therewith. The Company is to receive a monthly payment of 0.1% of the gross
pari-mutuel handle at such facilities plus purse supplements, and Finish Line
is to receive monthly compensation equal to the difference between the gross
receipts collected at such facilities less all expenses (including the payment
to the Company described herein) paid by Finish Line. In addition, Finish Line
is to indemnify the Company for, among other things, all obligations under the
leases assigned by Jefferson Downs to the Company. During the fiscal years
ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993, the Company received $67,593, $87,788
and $51,182, respectively, from Finish Line in accordance with the Management
Agreement.
Accounts receivable from Finish Line were $237,632 and $272,248 at October 31,
1995 and 1994, respectively.
The following table reflects the host track fees and purse supplement receipts
from Finish Line for the fiscal years ended October 31, 1995, 1994, and 1993.
ˇ Download Table
Received by the Company
and Paid by Finish Line
for the Years Ended October 31
--------------------------------------------
1995 1994 1993
---------- ---------- ----------
Host track fees $ 520,267 $ 483,294 $ 491,876
========== ========== ==========
Purse supplement receipts $2,448,955 $2,450,827 $2,580,000
========== ========== ==========
63
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 9 - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (CONTINUED)
Marie G. Krantz and Bryan G. Krantz are each 50% owners of Continental
Advertising, Inc. ("Continental"). During fiscal years ended October 31, 1995
and 1994, the Company made advances to Continental of $462,321 and $394,000,
respectively, for advertising services rendered by Continental. Due to the
fire and related destruction of accounting records discussed in Note 1 to the
financial statements, the Company is unable to report on transactions with
Continental for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1993. It is management's
opinion that such transactions would be immaterial to the Company's financial
statements. As of October 31, 1995 and 1994, the Company was due and included
in accounts receivable $28,575 and $120,449 from Continental, respectively.
In February 1992, the Company, Jefferson Downs and Finish Line entered into an
agreement with Video Services, Inc. ("VSI"), whereby VSI was granted the
exclusive right and license by the Company to install, maintain and operate
video draw poker devices at the Fair Grounds Race Course, Jefferson Downs Race
Course and at the tele-tracks then operated by the Company, Jefferson Downs and
Finish Line. Such agreement is for an initial term of five years, with an
option by VSI to extend the term for an additional five years. The agreement
provides that the Company is to receive a percentage of the revenues from the
operation of the devices installed at the Company's facilities (not including
the facilities operated for the Company by Finish Line). Such percentage is to
be calculated on the basis of the average amount collected daily from each
device during each month, after the payment of prizes, taxes and fees.
One-half of the net revenues from such devices, after deduction of certain
amounts, are required by State Statute to be paid as purse supplements during
the live racing meet. In addition, this agreement entitles the Company and
Finish Line to share in a $270,000 annual promotional fee paid by VSI. In
fiscal 1995, 1994 and 1993, upon agreement of the Company and Finish Line, the
Company received the total promotional fee of $270,000. Of this amount,
$135,000 was set aside each year as purse supplements to be paid during the
upcoming racing season.
The devices which have been installed and are to be installed by VSI remain the
property of VSI. As of October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993, there were a total of
250, 182 and 304 devices, respectively, in operation at all of the Company's
facilities. In addition, there were a total of 449, 508 and 467 devices in
operation at the Finish Line facilities as of October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993,
respectively.
64
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 9 - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (CONTINUED)
Gross video poker revenues and related purse supplements for the years ended
October 31, 1995, 1994, and 1993 are as follows:
ˇ Download Table
1995 1994 1993
---------- ---------- ----------
Gross video poker revenue $1,132,127 $1,354,792 $1,492,109
========== ========== ==========
Purse supplements $ 433,443 $ 540,258 $ 474,401
========== ========== ==========
In February 1992 the Company and Jefferson Downs also became shareholders in
Southern Video Services, Inc. ("SVS"), a Louisiana corporation which is an
affiliate of VSI. Jefferson Downs subsequently transferred its interest to
Marie Krantz and Bryan Krantz. SVS was organized for the purpose of operating
video poker devices in authorized locations in Louisiana other than facilities
covered by the agreement with VSI, as described above. Each of the Company and
the Krantzes as a group own shares of non-voting common stock of SVS,
constituting approximately 17% of the total common stock of SVS outstanding.
VSI and Louisiana Ventures, Inc., which is also a shareholder of SVS, are
affiliates of United Gaming, Inc., which owns and operates coin-operated gaming
devices in Nevada and Louisiana.
NOTE 10 -LEASES
The Company has various operating leases for the use of buildings and parking
facilities to operate off-track betting facilities in Louisiana. The location,
lease terms, and monthly payments are as follows:
ˇ Enlarge/Download Table
Monthly
Location Lease Term Payment
-------- ---------- -------
St. Bernard Parish, January 1, 1995 to
Louisiana January 31, 1999 $ 6,000
LaPlace, Louisiana February 1, 1995 to
January 31, 1996 $ 4,166
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bourbon Street - March 15, 1991 to
New Orleans, March 14, 1999 $10,000
Louisiana
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thibodeaux, May 1, 1995 to
Louisiana April 30, 1996 $ 2,100
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Metairie, August 1, 1995 to
Louisiana January 31, 1996 $ 8,200
February 1, 1996 to
July 31, 1997 $ 8,500
=============================================================================================
65
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 10 - LEASES (CONTINUED)
The tele-tracks formerly licensed to Jefferson Downs and now licensed to the
Company are also leased; however, as described herein, Finish Line has agreed
to indemnify the Company for, among other things, all obligations under the
leases assigned by Jefferson Downs to the Company.
In December 1993, the Company entered into a three year lease on the modular
buildings that house the executive, administrative, and operations personnel
and the totalisator equipment being used by the Company. Rent expense relating
to this lease for the years ended October 31, 1995 and 1994 is approximately
$71,000 and $49,000, respectively.
Future obligations over the primary lease terms, not including renewal periods,
of the Company's long-term leases (other than the leases assigned by Jefferson
Downs to the Company) as of October 31, 1995 are as follows:
ˇ Download Table
Year Ending
October 31
-----------
1996 $ 352,092
1997 255,666
1998 192,000
1999 63,000
Thereafter -
----------
Total $ 862,758
==========
In 1990, the Company entered into an agreement with Autotote Limited whereby
Autotote Limited is to provide wagering services for the Company until November
1997, including all computer and other related services to carry out the
totalisator function for the Company. The Company has agreed to pay Autotote
Limited 0.0045% of the total on-track pari-mutuel handle of the Company, plus
fixed equipment rental fees for its off-track betting facilities. The minimum
to be paid to Autotote Limited for each year of the agreement is $200,000. No
estimates of future obligations under this agreement have been included in the
above table. For the fiscal years ended October 31, 1995 and 1994, the Company
incurred $200,000 in minimum rental fees and $503,175 and $346,383,
respectively, in equipment and contingent rental fees in connection with its
agreement with Autotote Limited. Such rental fees were recorded as racing
expenses - contracts and services. Due to the fire and related destruction of
accounting records discussed in Note 1 to the financial statements, the amounts
of minimum and contingent rental fees for fiscal 1993 can not be determined.
66
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 11 - STOCK OPTION PLAN
The Company has a stock option plan where all incentive stock options granted
under the Plan are intended to qualify as incentive stock options under Section
422(b) of the Internal Revenue Code. Under the Plan, the option price per
share must be at least equal to 100% of the fair market value per share of the
common shares of the Company on the date of the grant. An aggregate of 20,000
common shares have been reserved for issue and may be granted up to February
28, 2001. No options were granted or exercised during fiscal years ending
October 31, 1995, 1994 or 1993. No options were outstanding at October 31,
1995.
NOTE 12 - CONTINGENCIES - GOING CONCERN
The accompanying financial statements for 1995 have been prepared assuming that
the Company will continue as a going concern. In view of the cessation of
construction and the additional expense which is likely to be incurred as a
result of construction delays, it is not certain that, even if all of the
financing, as described in Note 7, is consummated, including the long-term
financing by FNBC in accordance with the terms of the original commitment, the
Company will be able to complete the construction of its new facility as
presently planned. It may be necessary to (i) obtain funds from other sources,
(ii) attempt to increase the amount of long-term financing from FNBC or (iii)
seek to effect savings in the construction costs related to the completion of
the facility. The Company has had no discussions with any other possible
source of such financing, nor has it reached any understanding with FNBC
regarding any increase in the financing which the Company hopes to obtain from
FNBC as originally committed by FNBC. It should also be noted that FNBC and
the Company are not currently engaged in any discussions concerning the terms
and conditions of the definitive agreements relating to such long-term
financing, given the uncertain legislative climate. Accordingly, there can be
no assurance that definitive agreements will be reached, or, if reached, that
they will be in accordance with the terms of the original commitment. The
foregoing uncertainties raise substantial doubt about the Company's ability to
continue as a going concern. In the event that such long-term financing is not
completed by October 31, 1996, or that the funds provided through all sources
of such financing are insufficient to meet the Company's needs, the Company may
consider a number of alternatives, including seeking protection from creditors
under the United States Bankruptcy Code.
67
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 13 - SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
On December 18, 1995, First National Bank of Commerce of New Orleans ("FNBC")
provided the Company with a short-term interim construction loan in the amount
of $9,493,050, which included approximately $921,300 of the remaining principal
balance of the $2,150,000 previously loaned to the Company in July 1995 and
approximately $5,000,000 loaned to the Company in November 1995, for
construction costs relating to the rebuilding of the grandstand and clubhouse
facilities.
Pursuant to the loan agreement, FNBC agreed to extend credit to the Company up
to an aggregate principal amount of $9,493,050 until October 31, 1996. The
loan agreement states that such commitment is not a revolving credit facility,
and the commitment is only to make loans up to such aggregate principal amount.
Accordingly, FNBC has no obligation under the loan agreement to lend additional
funds to the Company.
Payment of the principal and interest under the loan agreement is to be made on
demand, or if no demand is made, then in 10 monthly installments of $52,740
principal plus interest, beginning January 17, 1996, and one final payment of
all principal plus accrued interest on October 31, 1996. The loan bears
interest at 9% per annum. On each monthly payment date, payment of principal
and interest is to be made from the proceeds of the funds received as a result
of the video poker tax relief legislation, which funds are to be on deposit in
a separate lockbox, in accordance with a Disbursement Agreement entered into
among Company, FNBC and Video Services, Inc. ("VSI") dated July 17, 1995. The
Disbursement Agreement provides that VSI acknowledges that the first $2.5
million in video poker franchise fee payments otherwise due annually to the
State of Louisiana are to be remitted to the Company under the terms of the tax
relief legislation. For each annual period from July 1 through June 30, such
funds are to be debited from VSI's bank account and deposited into a lockbox at
FNBC. Such proceeds are to be used solely for the purpose of making payments
of principal and interest from time to time due under the terms of the loan
agreement. Any amount in excess of the amount of debt service, up to $2.5
million annually, is to be applied as a prepayment of the principal amount of
the loan, and any excess of the debt service is to be returned to the Treasury
of the State of Louisiana. The loan agreement also provides that any fire
insurance proceeds (not including proceeds payable to any third party),
received by the Company are to be used to prepay the loan.
68
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 13 - SUBSEQUENT EVENTS (CONTINUED)
The indebtedness under the loan agreement is secured by (i) a second mortgage
by the Company of all of its real property; (ii) a mortgage by Marie G. Krantz
of all the real property formerly constituting the Jefferson Downs Race Course;
(iii) a security interest in all the Company's accounts, inventory, equipment,
fire insurance proceeds, tax relief monies, construction property, material
contracts and all deposit accounts; (iv) a security interest in certain
investment securities owned by Marie G. Krantz; (v) a security interest in all
furniture, fixtures and equipment owned by the Company, Finish Line and
Jefferson Downs; (vi) a pledge by Richard Katcher, as Trustee u/t/a between
John G. Masoni and John G. Masoni, Trustee, pursuant to a restatement of his
Trust Agreement dated April 19, 1991 as modified on October 24, 1992 (the
"Trust"), Marie G. Krantz, individually and as Voting Trustee, Bryan G. Krantz,
Vickie Krantz and Jefferson Downs of an aggregate of 342,584 shares of common
stock of the Company, constituting all shares of common stock of the Company
beneficially owned by them; (vii) a limited guaranty of such indebtedness by
Marie G. Krantz and Finish Line; and a guaranty of such indebtedness by Finish
Line.
The loan agreement provides that, commencing January 20, 1996, the Company will
deposit monthly into an account at FNBC all "Excess Cash Flow" generated during
the immediately preceding month. Excess Cash Flow is defined as all net income
for the month; plus or minus non-cash items such as depreciation and
amortization; plus or minus the changes in accounts receivable, inventory,
prepaid expenses, accounts payable and accrued expenses, and any other
operating balance sheet related activity affecting the cash position; and plus
or minus capital expenditures. This obligation ceases if and when the 1996
regular session of the Louisiana Legislature adjourns without having passed any
statute that adversely affects the status of the video poker tax relief or the
existing video poker operations of the Company or Finish Line, or that would
allow for or require local elections as a condition to the continuation of
video poker operations; of if there is any such legislation requiring local
elections, the voters fail to approve any such adverse change. Prior to the
cessation of such obligation, the Company may not withdraw any funds in such
account, and FNBC has a security interest in such funds.
The loan agreement contains certain negative covenants pursuant to which the
Company has agreed that it will not (i) resume construction activities without
first providing FNBC with satisfactory evidence of the source of funding for
the balance of such construction; (ii) enter into any agreement with any
affiliate except to the extent that such agreements are commercially reasonable
and provide for terms which would
69
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 (Unaudited)
NOTE 13 - SUBSEQUENT EVENTS (CONTINUED)
normally be obtainable in an arm's length transaction with an unrelated third
party; and (iii) incur capital expenditures during any fiscal year in excess of
$200,000 without the consent of FNBC.
On December 26, 1995, the Company paid $1,000,000 of principal on the
$2,000,000 remaining balances related to its promissory notes held by Louie J.
Roussel, III and agreed to pay the remaining $1,000,000 in principal on October
31, 1996.
In January 1996, the Company received an advance of $1,000,000 from VSI, which
the Company plans to repay in six equal monthly installments beginning in
February 1996.
70
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
Not applicable.
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
The following table shows each director and executive officer of the Company,
his or her age, present positions and offices with the Company, principal
occupation and the name and principal business of the corporation or other
organization in which such occupation has been carried on, and, with respect to
each director, the year he or she first became a director of the Company and
directorships in certain other corporations, based upon information furnished
to the Company by each such director and executive officer or otherwise
available to the Company. Unless otherwise indicated, each director and
executive officer has engaged in the occupations stated below for at least the
last five years. No family relationships exist between or among any director
or executive officer of the Company, except that Bryan G. Krantz is the son of
Marie G. Krantz.
ˇ Download Table
Director
Name Age Since
---- --- --------
Directors
KATHERINE F. DUNCAN 68 1991
Private investor; Director of
Planned Giving of Audubon
Institute, Inc., which
operates the Audubon Zoo
and the Aquarium of the Amer-
icas, since July 1991;
Vice President and Secretary of
Foster Company, a company
engaged in the sale and
rental of decorative awn-
ings and special-event
tents, prior to July 1991.
RICHARD KATCHER 77 1994
Practicing attorney with
Baker and Hostetler, Cleveland,
Ohio
71
ˇ Download Table
BRYAN G. KRANTZ 35 1990
President and General Manager
of the Company since April 1990;
Vice President of Jefferson Downs
Corporation, a company which
owns a racing track that was used
until November 1992 to conduct live
horse racing, and which owns an off-
track betting facility in Louisiana;
General Manager of Jefferson Downs
Corporation prior to May 1990;
President of Finish Line Management
Corporation, which operates certain
off-track betting facilities in
Louisiana.
MARIE G. KRANTZ 60 1990
Chairman of the Board of Directors
and Treasurer of the Company since
April 1990; Chairman of the Board and
President of Jefferson Downs
Corporation; Secretary/Treasurer
of Finish Line Management Corporation.
RONALD J. MAESTRI 55 1991
Athletic Director, University of
New Orleans.
CHARMAINE R. MOREL 61 1987
Assistant to the Financial Manager,
Mike's on the Avenue, a restaurant in
New Orleans, since October 1991;
Secretary-Treasurer of Empire
Land Corporation, a corporation
engaged in oil and gas production,
prior to October 1991; Secretary-
Treasurer of Victory Management Group,
Inc., an insurance holding company,
from January 1993 to December 1995.
DONALD L. PELTIER 69 1977
Practicing attorney with
Peltier, Morvant & Cavell (or its
predecessor); Chairman of the
Board of Argent Bank (or its
predecessor), a banking institution.
72
Executive Officers (In Addition to Those Listed Above)
ˇ Download Table
WILLIAM A. HOF 61 -
Vice President of the Company since
February 1992; Director of Operations;
Director of Operations of Jefferson
Downs prior to the closing of its
facility in November 1992.
MERVIN MUNIZ, JR. 53 -
Vice President of the Company;
Racing Secretary
GORDON M. ROBERTSON 54 -
Vice President of the Company since
February 1992; Chief Financial Officer
since August 1990; General Manager of
Jefferson Downs prior to November 1992.
JOAN B. STEWART 62 -
Secretary of the Company
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
SUMMARY OF EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The following table sets forth certain information concerning the annual and
long-term compensation for services in all capacities to the Company for the
fiscal years ended October 31, 1995, October 31, 1994 and October 31, 1993, for
the chief executive officer of the Company.
SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
ˇ Enlarge/Download Table
Annual Compensation
----------------------------------------------------------
Other
Annual
Name and Compen-
Principal Position Year Salary Bonus sation
------------------ ---- -------- -------------------------
BRYAN G. KRANTZ
President and General Manager 1995 $ 75,000 0 $3,600(1)
1994 75,000 0 3,600(1)
1993 75,000 0 3,600(1)
73
(1) Consists of the annual retainer paid to Mr. Krantz as a director.
INFORMATION CONCERNING STOCK OPTION PLAN
In 1991, the Board of Directors of the Company adopted, and the shareholders
ratified, the Fair Grounds Corporation Stock Option Plan (the "Stock Option
Plan"). The Stock Option Plan, which is administered by a committee of the
Board of Directors, provides that options to purchase up to 20,000 common
shares of the Company may be granted to key employees, as determined by the
committee. Key employees may be granted options for common shares of any
value; however, the aggregate fair market value of common shares with respect
to which incentive stock options are exercisable by an optionee during any
calendar year may not exceed $100,000. The committee has the authority to
determine the number of common shares that an optionee may purchase upon
exercise of an option. The exercise price per share may not be less than the
fair market value per share of the Company's common shares at the time an
option is granted. Each option granted will be exercisable only during the
term fixed by the committee, and may not be exercisable prior to the expiration
of six months from the date of the grant. Options granted under the Stock
Option Plan may be either "incentive stock options" for purposes of the
Internal Revenue Code or nonqualified stock options. During the fiscal year
ended October 31, 1995, no options were granted or exercised under the Stock
Option Plan. There are currently no options outstanding under the Stock Option
Plan.
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION
The following non-employee directors served on the Compensation Committee of
the Board of Directors of the Company during the fiscal year ended October 31,
1995: Richard Katcher, Charmaine R. Morel and Donald L. Peltier. As described
herein, Mr. Katcher is trustee of the Trust which is the beneficial owner of
339,604 common shares of the Company, constituting approximately 72.5% of the
common shares issued and outstanding, which shares are held by Marie G. Krantz
as Voting Trustee. In connection with the financing described herein, the
Trust entered into a Pledge Agreement pursuant to which it pledged and granted
to FNBC a security interest in the common shares of the Company beneficially
owned by the Trust. See Item 12, "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial
owners and Management," for a description of the terms of such Pledge
Agreement.
74
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND
MANAGEMENT
BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP
The following table sets forth certain information regarding the beneficial
ownership of common shares of the Company, as of January 1, 1996, of (i) each
person who, to the knowledge of the Company, owns beneficially more than 5% of
the outstanding common shares of the Company, (ii) each director and nominee
for election as a director, (iii) the executive officer listed in the summary
compensation table and (iv) all directors and executive officers of the Company
as a group. The information set forth in the following table is based upon
statements filed by such persons with the Securities and Exchange Commission
and information otherwise available to the Company. Unless otherwise
indicated, each person has sole voting and investment power of the common
shares of the Company beneficially owned by him or her.
ˇ Download Table
AMOUNT AND NATURE PERCENT
OF BENEFICIAL OF
BENEFICIAL OWNER OWNERSHIP CLASS(A)
---------------- ----------------- --------
Katherine F. Duncan 480 *
Richard Katcher 339,604(b)(e) 72.5%
Marie G. Krantz 340,584(c)(e) 72.7%
Bryan G. Krantz 2,600(d)(e) *
Ronald J. Maestri 480 *
Charmaine R. Morel 480 *
Donald L. Peltier 2,513(f) *
All Directors and Executive Officers as a Group 346,537(g) 74.0%
* Less than 1% of Class
(a) For purposes of this table, the percentage of class beneficially owned
has been computed,in accordance with Rule 13d-3(d)(1) under the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, on the basis of 468,180 common shares
outstanding on January 1, 1996.
(b) Richard Katcher, as Trustee u/t/a between John G. Masoni and John G.
Masoni, Trustee, pursuant to a restatement of his Trust Agreement
dated April 19, 1991 as modified on October 24, 1992 (the "Trust"),
has reported to the Commission that the Trust is the beneficial owner
of 339,604 common shares, constituting approximately 72.5% of the
common shares issued and outstanding, which are held by Marie G.
Krantz as Voting Trustee, and that the Trust has the sole power to
dispose or to direct the disposition of such common shares. The
address of this beneficial owner is 3200 National City Center,
Cleveland, Ohio.
(c) Marie G. Krantz has reported to the Commission that she is the
beneficial owner of 380 common shares held directly by her and of 100
common shares
75
held by Jefferson Downs, constituting less than 1% of the common
shares issued and outstanding, and that she may be deemed to be the
beneficial owner of the 340,104 common shares held by her as Voting
Trustee. In her capacity as Voting Trustee, Marie G. Krantz has the
sole power to vote or to direct the vote of the 340,104 common shares
held by her as Voting Trustee. She has the sole power to vote or to
direct the vote and the sole power to dispose or to direct the
disposition of the 380 common shares held directly by her. She may be
deemed to share with Bryan G. Krantz the power to vote or to direct
the vote and the power to dispose or to direct the disposition of the
100 common shares held by Jefferson Downs. Ms. Krantz's address is
1751 Gentilly Boulevard, New Orleans, Louisiana 70119.
(d) Bryan G. Krantz has reported to the Commission that he is the
beneficial owner of 500 common shares held by Marie G. Krantz as
Voting Trustee, constituting less than 1% of the common shares issued
and outstanding, 2,000 common shares held jointly by him and his wife,
constituting less than 1% of the common shares issued and outstanding
and 100 shares held by Jefferson Downs, constituting less than 1% of
the common shares issued and outstanding. Bryan G. Krantz has the
sole power to dispose or direct the disposition of the 500 common
shares held by Marie G. Krantz as Voting Trustee, and shares with his
wife the power to vote or direct the vote and to dispose or direct the
disposition of the 2,000 common shares held jointly with her. He may
be deemed to share with Marie G. Krantz the power to vote or to direct
the vote and the power to dispose or to direct the disposition of the
100 common shares held by Jefferson Downs. Mr. Krantz's address is
1751 Gentilly Boulevard, New Orleans, Louisiana 70119.
(e) The Trust and the Krantzes, who are the beneficial owners of an
aggregate of 342,584 common shares, constituting approximately 73.2%
of the common shares outstanding, have reported to the Commission that
they constitute a "group" within the meaning of section 13(d)(3) of
the Exchange Act. By virtue of their beneficial ownership of common
shares of the Company and the matters set forth in filings made by
them under Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act, the Trust, Marie G.
Krantz and Bryan G. Krantz may be deemed to be controlling persons of
the Company. See "Pledge of Common Shares to FNBC" below, for a
description of the pledge agreements in favor of FNBC, as security for
the Company's obligations under the Loan Agreement.
(f) Includes 679 common shares held directly by Mr. Peltier and 1,834
common shares of the Company held by members of Mr. Peltier's family
who have given Mr. Peltier powers of attorney to vote and dispose of
such common shares.
(g) The number of common shares shown as beneficially owned includes any
directors qualifying shares held by each director.
PLEDGE OF COMMON SHARES TO FNBC
As described above, all of the 342,584 common shares of the Company owned in
the aggregate by the Trust, Marie Krantz, Bryan Krantz, Vickie Krantz and
Jefferson Downs are subject to pledge agreements (the "Pledge Agreements") in
favor of FNBC, as security for the Company's obligations under the Loan
Agreement described elsewhere herein. Pursuant to the Pledge Agreements, each
such shareholder has granted to FNBC a security interest in all common shares
of the Company owned by such shareholder, and in any additional common shares
which may be received. So long as the Company's indebtedness under the Loan
Agreement remains outstanding, the
76
common shares subject to the Pledge Agreements may not be sold, transferred or
disposed of in any way. Unless and until an event of default occurs, each
shareholder is entitled to exercise all voting rights and receive all dividends
with respect to such shares. In the event of a default, including a default
under any other guaranty or security agreement entered into in connection with
the Loan Agreement, FNBC will be entitled, among other things, to transfer all
or part of the pledged shares into its name, exercise all voting rights and
sell all or any part of such shares. Any such sale of all or a substantial
portion of the common shares subject to the Pledge Agreements would result in a
change of control of the Company. For a description of certain events of
default under the loan Agreement and related documents, see Item 1, "Business -
Developments During 1995."
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
During 1992 Jefferson Downs, a corporation owned by Marie G. Krantz and Bryan
G. Krantz, did not renew its license application with the Louisiana Racing
Commission for live racing and, accordingly, did not conduct live racing in
1993. In August 1992, Jefferson Downs assigned to the Company all of its
right, title and interest in and to the leases on its tele-track facilities in
Terrebone, St. Tammany and Jefferson Parishes, Louisiana. Such assignment was
effective on May 27, 1993, the date the Louisiana Racing Commission approved
the transfer to the Company of all licenses necessary for the operation of such
tele-tracks.
During 1992 the Company entered into a Management Agreement (the "Management
Agreement") with Finish Line. The Management Agreement provides that Finish
Line is to operate the former Jefferson Downs tele-track facilities described
above for a period of ten years, commencing November 1, 1992, with the option
granted to Finish Line to extend the term of the Management Agreement for two
additional five-year periods. The Management Agreement provides that Finish
Line is to have the exclusive responsibility for the direction, supervision,
management and operation of such facilities, is to collect all monies from such
operation and is to pay all expenses in connection therewith. The Company is
to receive 0.1% of the gross pari-mutuel handle at such facilities, and Finish
Line is to receive monthly compensation equal to the difference between the
gross receipts collected at such facilities less all expenses (including the
payment to the Company described above) paid by Finish Line. In addition,
Finish Line is to indemnify the Company for, among other things, all
obligations under the leases assigned by Jefferson Downs to the Company.
During the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995, Finish Line paid the Company
$67,593 under the Management Agreement, host track fees of $520,267 and purse
supplements of $2,448,955. As of October 31, 1995, the Company had accounts
receivable from Finish Line in the aggregate amount of $237,632.
77
The Company, Jefferson Downs and Finish Line are parties to an agreement with
VSI, whereby VSI has the exclusive right and license to install, maintain and
operate video draw poker devices at the Fair Grounds Race Course and Jefferson
Downs Race Course and at the tele-tracks operated by the Company, Jefferson
Downs and Finish Line. Such agreement was entered into in November 1992 for an
initial term of five years, with an option by VSI to extend the term for an
additional five years. The agreement provides that the Company is to receive a
percentage of the revenues from the operation of the devices installed at the
Company's facilities. Such percentage is to be calculated on the basis of the
average amount collected daily from each device during each month, after the
payment of prizes, taxes and fees. The devices which have been installed and
are to be installed by VSI pursuant to such agreement remain the property of
VSI. As of October 31, 1995, there were a total of 250 devices in operation at
all of the Company's facilities (excluding the tele-tracks operated for the
Company by Finish Line) and 449 devices in operation at facilities managed by
Finish Line. In fiscal 1995, the Company received gross revenue of $1,132,127,
including amounts to be paid as purse supplements of $433,443. In addition,
such agreement provides that the Company, Jefferson Downs and Finish Line are
entitled to receive an annual promotional allowance from VSI in the aggregate
amount of $270,000, which for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995 was paid
in full to the Company. The agreement also provides for advances annually
from VSI against future revenues of up to $1 million in the aggregate to the
Company, Jefferson Downs and Finish Line. The Company received all of such
advance during the year ended October 31, 1995 and has also received such an
advance during the current fiscal year. The Company anticipates that it will
continue to receive revenues pursuant to the agreement with VSI.
The Company and Marie and Bryan Krantz are also shareholders in Southern Video
Services, Inc. ("SVS"), a Louisiana corporation which is an affiliate of VSI.
SVS was organized for the purpose of operating video poker devices in
authorized locations in Louisiana other than the facilities covered by the
agreement with VSI, as described above. Each of the Company and Marie and
Bryan Krantz as a group owns shares of nonvoting common stock of SVS,
constituting approximately 17% of the total common stock of SVS outstanding.
VSI and Louisiana Ventures, Inc., which is also a shareholder of SVS, are
affiliates of United Gaming, Inc., which owns and operates coin-operated gaming
devices in Nevada and Louisiana. SVS is not actively engaged in any business
in Louisiana.
Marie Krantz is a director, the President and the owner of 66 2/3% of the
outstanding common stock, and Bryan Krantz is a director, Vice President and
the owner of 33 1/3% of the outstanding common stock, of Jefferson Downs.
Marie Krantz is a director, executive officer and the owner of 66 2/3% of the
outstanding common stock, and Bryan Krantz is a director, executive officer and
the owner of 33 1/3% of the outstanding common stock, of Finish Line. By
virtue
78
of such positions and ownership and their positions with and relationship with
such entities, the Company, Finish Line and Jefferson Downs may be deemed to be
affiliates.
Marie Krantz and Bryan Krantz each own 50% of the outstanding common stock of
Continental Advertising, Inc. ("Continental"), an advertising agency which
provided advertising services to the Company during the last fiscal year.
During the 1995 fiscal year, the Company made advances to Continental of
$462,321. As of October 31, 1995, the Company was due $28,575 from
Continental. The Company expects to continue to utilize Continental's services
during the current fiscal year.
As described elsewhere herein, the Company and FNBC are parties to the Loan
Agreement, and the Company's indebtedness thereunder has been guaranteed by
Marie Krantz and Finish Line. In addition, Marie G. Krantz has granted FNBC a
security interest in certain investment securities held by her, and Finish Line
and Jefferson Downs have granted to FNBC a security interest in substantially
all of the property, furniture, fixtures and equipment owned by each such
corporation. For a description of the terms and conditions of the Loan
Agreement and the security interests granted to FNBC, see Item 1, "Business -
Developments During 1995." Also in connection with the Loan Agreement, each of
Marie Krantz, Bryan Krantz, Vickie Krantz, Richard Katcher and Jefferson Downs
has pledged to FNBC all of the common shares of the Company owned by such
shareholder. For a description of the terms and conditions of the pledge
agreements relating to such shares, see Item 12, "Securities Ownership of
Certain Beneficial Owners and Management."
From time to time, persons who are officers, directors or principal
shareholders of the Company own or have interests in horses racing at the
Company's race track. Such races are conducted under the rules and regulations
of the Louisiana Racing Commission, and no officer, director or principal
shareholder receives any extra or special benefits not shared by all others so
racing.
79
PART IV
ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, SCHEDULES AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a)(1) The following unaudited financial statements are included in Part II,
Item 8:
ˇ Enlarge/Download Table
Financial Statements Page
-------------------- ----
Report of Independent Certified Public
Accountant 36
Balance Sheets, October 31, 1995 and 1994 37
Statements of Operations for the Three Years
Ended October 31, 1995 40
Statements of Changes in Stockholder's
Equity for the Three Years Ended
October 31, 1995 44
Statements of Cash Flows for the Three
Years Ended October 31, 1995 45
Notes to Financial Statements 48
(a)(2) The following unaudited financial statement
schedules for the years ended October 31, 1995,
1994 and 1993 are filed herewith:
Schedule II - Amounts Receivable from
Related Parties 88
Schedule V - Property, Plant and Equipment 89
Schedule VI - Accumulated Depreciation and
Amortization of Property, Plant and Equipment 90
Schedule IX - Short-Term Borrowings 91
(b) Report on Form 8-K: None
(c) Exhibits: The following exhibits are filed as part of this report. Those exhibits which have been
previously filed and incorporated herein by reference are identified by reference to the previous
filing.
(3)(a) Articles of Incorporation of Fair Grounds Corporation, as amended
80
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(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (3)(a) to the Form 10-K of the Company
for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1991, filed on January 29, 1992).
(3)(b) *
Amended and Restated By-Laws of Fair Grounds Corporation (incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit (3)(b) to the Form 10-K of the Company for the fiscal year
ended October 31, 1990).
(9) *
Voting Trust Agreement dated as of August 31, 1993, by and among Bryan G. Krantz
and Richard Katcher, Trustee, as grantors, and Marie G. Krantz as Voting Trustee
(incorporated herein by reference to exhibit 2 to Amendment No. 3 to Schedule 13D
filed by such persons on October 13, 1993).
(10)(a) *
Agreement dated December 1, 1987, between Fair Grounds Corporation and Jefferson Downs, Inc.
(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (10)(a) to the Form 10-K of the Company for
the fiscal year ended October 31, 1988).
(10)(b) *
Agreement dated March 30, 1988, between Fair Grounds Corporation and Jefferson Downs, Inc.
(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (10)(b) to the Form 10-K of the Company for the fiscal
year ended October 31, 1988).
(10)(c) *
Agreement dated March 29, 1989, between Fair Grounds Corporation and Jefferson Downs, Inc.
(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (10)(c) to the Form 10-K of the Company for the fiscal
year ended October 31, 1989).
(10)(d) *
Agreement dated November 3, 1989, between Fair Grounds Corporation and Jefferson Downs, Inc.
(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (10)(d)
81
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to the Form 10-K of the Company for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1989).
(10)(e) *
Net Commercial Lease Agreement dated November 10, 1988, between Pelican Homestead and Savings
Association and Fair Grounds Corporation (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (10)(e) to
the Form 10-K of the Company for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1989).
(10)(f) *
Lease of Commercial Property dated February 1, 1989, between Mereaux and Nunez, Inc. and Fair
Grounds Corporation (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (10)(f) to the Form 10-K of the
Company for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1989).
(10)(g) *
Lease Agreement dated March 8, 1989, between Richard F. Keyworth and Fair Grounds Corporation
(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (10)(g) to the Form 10-K of the Company for the fiscal
year ended October 31, 1989).
(10)(h) *
Promissory Note dated November 19, 1989, in the principal amount of $5,000,000 from Fair Grounds
Corporation to National Savings Life Insurance Company (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit
(10)(h) to the Form 10-K of the Company for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1989).
(10)(i) *
Promissory Note dated November 19, 1989, in the principal amount of $4,980,000 from Fair Grounds
Corporation to Louie J. Roussel, III (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (10)(i) to the
Form 10-K of the Company for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1989).
(10)(j) *
Promissory Note dated December 27, 1990, in the principal amount of
82
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$4,980,000 from Fair Grounds Corporation to Louie J. Roussel, III (incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit (10)(j) to the Form 10-K of the Company for the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1990).
(10)(k) *
Promissory Note dated December 27, 1990, in the principal amount of $5,000,000 from Fair Grounds
Corporation to Victory Life Insurance Company (incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibit (10)(k) to the Form 10-K of the Company for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1990).
(10)(l) *
Fair Grounds Corporation Stock Option Plan (incorporated herein by reference to Appendix A to the
definitive Information Statement of the Company dated February 26, 1991).
(10)(m) *
Commercial Lease Agreement dated April 1, 1991 between Blake's Superette, Inc. and Fair Grounds
Corporation (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (10)(m) to the Form 10-K of the Company for
the fiscal year ended October 31, 1991, filed on January 29, 1992).
(10)(n) *
Lease Agreement dated November 21, 1991 between Jefferson Downs Corporation and Fair Grounds
Corporation (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (10)(n) to the Form 10-K of the Company for
the fiscal year ended October 31, 1991, filed on January 29, 1992).
(10)(o) *
Agreements regarding Purchase and Sale of Partnership Interests by and between Jefferson Downs
Corporation and Fair Grounds Corporation, dated as of August 11, 1992. (Incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit (10)(o) to the Form 10-K of the Company for the fiscal
83
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year ended October 31, 1992, filed on February 15, 1993.)
(10)(p) *
Assignments of Lease by Jefferson Downs Corporation to Fair Grounds Corporation, dated as of
August 31, 1992. (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (10)(p) to the Form 10-K of the
Company for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1992, filed on February 15, 1993.)
(10)(q)
Management Agreement by and between Finish Line Management Corp. and Fair Grounds Corporation,
dated October 9, 1992. (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (10)(q) to the Form 10-K
of the Company for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1992, filed on February 15, 1993.)
(10)(r) *
Letter of Intent between K-III Information Group and Fair Grounds Corporation, dated
November 20, 1992. (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (10)(r) to the Form 10-K
of the Company for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1992, filed on February 15, 1993.)
(10)(s) *
Incentive Stock Option Agreement between Fair Grounds Corporation and William H. Kurtz, dated as of
February 4, 1992. (Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (10)(s) to the Form 10-K of the
Company for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1992, filed on February 15, 1993.)
(10)(t) *
Agreement dated February 28, 1992, by and between Video Services, Inc., Fair Grounds Corporation,
Jefferson Downs Corporation and Finish Line Management Corp. (Incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibit (10)(t) to the Form 10-K of the Company for the fiscal year ended
84
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October 31, 1992, filed on February 15, 1993.)
(10)(u)
Loan Agreement dated as of December 18, 1995, between Fair Grounds Corporation and First National Bank
of Commerce
(10)(v)
Disbursement Agreement dated as of July 17, 1995 by and among Fair Grounds Corporation, Vide Services,
Inc. and First National Bank of Commerce
(10)(w)
Commercial Security Agreement dated as of July 17, 1995 between Fair Grounds Corporation and First
National Bank of Commerce
* Incorporated herein by reference as indicated.
85
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 12 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.
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
By: /s/ Bryan G. Krantz
--------------------------
Date: February 15, 1996 Bryan G. Krantz, President
-----------------
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this
report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the
registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
Name Capacity Date
-------------- -------- -----------
PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER:
/s/ Bryan G. Krantz
------------------------------
Bryan G. Krantz President February 15, 1996
PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER:
/s/ Gordon M. Robertson
------------------------------
Gordon M. Robertson Chief Financial February 15, 1996
Officer
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING OFFICER:
/s/ Jill P. Incaprera
------------------------------
Jill P. Incaprera Principal February 15, 1996
Accounting
Officer
86
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DIRECTORS:
/s/ Marie G. Krantz
--------------------------------
Marie G. Krantz Director February 15, 1996
and Chairman
of the Board
/s/ Bryan G. Krantz
--------------------------------
Bryan G. Krantz Director February 15, 1996
and President
/s/ Katherine F. Duncan
--------------------------------
Katherine F. Duncan Director February 15, 1996
/s/ Ronald J. Maestri
--------------------------------
Ronald J. Maestri Director February 15, 1996
/s/ Charmaine R. Morel
--------------------------------
Charmaine R. Morel Director February 15, 1996
/s/ Donald L. Peltier
--------------------------------
Donald L. Peltier Director February 15, 1996
87
SCHEDULE II
AMOUNTS RECEIVABLE FROM RELATED PARTIES
For The Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993
ˇ Enlarge/Download Table
COLUMN A COLUMN B COLUMN C COLUMN D COLUMN E
Balance at Deductions Balance at
Beginning Amounts Amount End of Period
Name of Debtor of Period Additions Collected Sold Current Non-Current
-------------- --------- --------- --------- ------ ------- -----------
1995
====
None.
1994
====
Intertrack Partners of Madison (b) $232,872 $ - $ 595 $232,277 $ - $ -
Intertrack Partners of Rapides (b) 286,305 - 1,289 285,016 - -
Intertrack Partners of Ouachita (c) 7,500 - 7,500 - - -
Fast, Inc. 16,864 - 2,118 14,746 - -
-------- ------ -------- -------- -------- --------
$543,541 $ - $ 11,502 $532,039 $ - $ -
======== ====== ======== ======== ======== ========
1993 (Unaudited)
====
Intertrack Partners of Rapides (b) $288,914 $ - $ 2,609 $ - $ 3,668 $282,637
Intertrack Partners of Ouachita (c) 27,600 - 20,100 - - 7,500
Fast, Inc. (a) 18,546 - 1,682 - 1,682 15,182
-------- ------ -------- -------- -------- --------
$335,060 $ - $ 24,391 $ - $ 5,350 305,319
======== ====== ======== ======== ======== ========
Intertrack Partners of Madison
eliminated through
1993 consolidation 232,872
--------
$543,541
========
(a) Note receivable at 9% interest, payable in yearly installments through
December 1999.
(b) Note receivable at 9% interest, payable in quarterly installments
through December 2019.
(c) Advance, no repayment terms stated at this time.
88
SCHEDULE V
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993
ˇ Enlarge/Download Table
COLUMN A COLUMN B COLUMN C COLUMN D COLUMN E COLUMN F
Balance at Assets Balance
Beginning Additions Retirements Destroyed at End
Description of Period at Cost or Sales By Fire of Period
----------- ---------- --------- ----------- --------- ---------
OCTOBER 31, 1995
Land $ 3,286,281 $ - $ - $ - $ 3,286,281
Buildings and improvements 10,206,873 3,675,097 - - 13,881,970
Temporary facilities 2,680,917 5,127 - - 2,686,044
Construction in progress 4,723,474 14,119,779 (3,637,088) - 15,207,395
Machinery and equipment 1,464,204 143,254 - - 1,607,458
Furniture and fixtures 155,672 15,825 - - 171,497
Land improvements 4,188,282 82,253 - - 4,270,535
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------ -----------
$26,705,703 $18,042,565 $(3,637,088) $ - $41,111,180
=========== =========== =========== ============ ===========
OCTOBER 31, 1994
Land $ 3,286,281 $ - $ - $ - $ 3,286,281
Buildings and improvements 19,419,664 20,022 - (9,232,813) 10,206,873
Temporary facilities - 2,680,917 - - 2,680,917
Construction in progress - 4,723,474 - - 4,723,474
Machinery and equipment 3,860,902 453,062 (14,980) (2,834,780) 1,464,204
Furniture and fixtures 497,557 27,216 - (369,101) 155,672
Land improvements 4,382,941 - - (194,659) 4,188,282
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------ -----------
$31,447,345 $ 7,904,691 $ (14,980) $(12,631,353) $26,705,703
=========== =========== =========== ============ ===========
OCTOBER 31, 1993 (Unaudited)
Land $ 3,401,281 $ - $ - $ - $ 3,401,281
Buildings and improvements 20,038,877 183,559 - - 20,222,436
Machinery and equipment 4,002,872 44,181 (1,401) - 4,045,652
Furniture and fixtures 536,985 13,126 - - 550,111
Land improvements 4,456,666 - (73,725) - 4,382,941
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------ -----------
$32,436,681 $ 240,866 $ (75,126) $ - 32,602,421
=========== =========== =========== ============
Intertrack Partners of Madison
effects of consolidation (1,155,076)
-----------
$31,447,345
===========
89
SCHEDULE VI
ACCUMULATED DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION OF
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
For the Years Ended October 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993
ˇ Enlarge/Download Table
COLUMN A COLUMN B COLUMN C COLUMN D COLUMN E COLUMN F
Balance at Assets Balance
Beginning Depreciation Retirements Destroyed at End
Description of Period Expense or Sales By Fire of Period
----------- ---------- ------------ ----------- --------- ---------
OCTOBER 31, 1995
Buildings and improvements $ 6,832,699 $ 746,330 $ - $ - $ 7,579,029
Temporary facilities 890,667 747,810 - - 1,638,477
Machinery and equipment 1,009,981 103,196 - - 1,113,177
Furniture and fixtures 119,920 9,158 - - 129,078
Land improvements 3,032,870 190,762 - - 3,223,632
------------ ----------- --------- ----------- -----------
$ 11,886,137 $ 1,797,256 $ - $ - $13,683,393
============ =========== ========= =========== ===========
OCTOBER 31, 1994
Buildings and improvements $ 12,085,279 $ 665,712 $ - $(5,918,292) $ 6,832,699
Temporary facilities - 890,667 - - 890,667
Construction in progress - - - - -
Machinery and equipment 3,027,123 99,797 (10,861) (2,106,078) 1,009,981
Furniture and fixtures 360,305 10,117 - (250,500) 119,920
Land improvements 2,920,357 190,095 - (77,582) 3,032,870
------------ ----------- --------- ----------- -----------
$ 18,393,064 $ 1,856,388 $ (10,861) $(8,352,454) $11,886,137
============ ============ ========= =========== ===========
OCTOBER 31, 1993 (Unaudited)
Buildings and improvements $ 11,162,679 $ 1,028,865 $ - $ - $12,191,544
Machinery and equipment 2,920,321 269,166 - - 3,189,487
Furniture and fixtures 350,340 32,290 - - 382,630
Land improvements 2,651,451 244,385 - - 2,895,836
------------ ----------- --------- ----------- -----------
$ 17,084,791 $ 1,574,706 $ - $ - 18,659,497
============ =========== ========= =========== ===========
Intertrack Partners of Madison
effects of consolidation (266,433)
-----------
$18,393,064
===========
90
SCHEDULE IX
SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS
For the Years Ended October 1995, 1994 and 1993
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Weighted Maximum Average
Average Amount Amount Average
Category of Balance Interest Outstanding Outstanding Interest
Aggregate at End Rate at End During the During the Rate During
Borrowings of Period of Period Period Period the Period
----------- --------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
(Note B)
Notes payable:
1995 $3,706,143 9.00% $4,454,117 $2,425,563 9.60%
1994 $ - 7.75% $1,000,000 $ 416,000 7.75%
1993 (Unaudited) $ - 7.00% $ 450,000 $ 200,000 7.00%
NOTES:
(A) The average amount outstanding during the year represents the average
monthly principal balances outstanding during the year.
(B) The weighted average interest rates during the year were computed by
dividing the actual interest on short-term borrowings by the average
short-term borrowings.
91
EXHIBIT INDEX
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Exhibit Description Page
------- ----------- ----
(10)(u) Loan Agreement dated as of December 18, 1995, between Fair Grounds 93
Corporation and First National Bank of Commerce
(10)(v) Disbursement Agreement dated as of July 17, 1995 by and among Fair 125
Grounds Corporation, Vide Services, Inc. and First National Bank of
Commerce
(10)(w) Commercial Security Agreement dated as of July 17, 1995 between Fair 136
Grounds Corporation and First National Bank of Commerce
(27) Financial Data Schedule (included in electronic filing only)
92
Dates Referenced Herein and Documents Incorporated By Reference
Filing Submission - Alternative Formats (Word / Rich Text, HTML, Plain Text, SGML, XML, et al.)
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