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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, 1997 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
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
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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 $1,980,096 computed by reference to the average bid and asked
prices of such stock on February 13, 1998.
The number of shares outstanding of the issuer's single class of common stock
was 468,580 as of February 13, 1998.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Portions of the Registrant's Information Statement for the 1998 Annual Meeting
of Shareholders are incorporated by reference into Part III.
PAGE 1 OF 72 PAGES
EXHIBIT INDEX ON PAGE 68
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
<TABLE>
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ITEM PAGE
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<S> <C> <C>
ITEM 1. BUSINESS...................................................................................... 3
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES.................................................................................... 14
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS............................................................................. 15
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF
SECURITY HOLDERS.............................................................................. 18
Executive Officers of the Registrant............................................................................ 18
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS..................... 18
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA....................................................................... 20
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS......... 22
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA................................................... 27
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE.......... 60
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT............................................ 60
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION........................................................................ 60
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT ............................... 60
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED
TRANSACTIONS ................................................................................. 60
ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K............................... 61
SIGNATURES...................................................................................................... 66
EXHIBIT INDEX................................................................................................... 68
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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 126th racing season,
making it the third oldest thoroughbred racing track in the United States. In
addition to its live racing operations, the Company 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
five tele-track facilities in Terrebonne, 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.
The Company's fiscal year ends on October 31; accordingly, unless otherwise
indicated, references herein to a year mean the fiscal year which ended in the
calendar year to which reference is made. For example, references to "fiscal
1997" mean the fiscal year ended October 31, 1997.
DEVELOPMENTS DURING FISCAL 1997
Fire-Related Litigation
The Company has previously reported that it had filed an action in Louisiana
state court against Travelers Indemnity Company of Illinois ("Travelers") and
others, arising out of the Company's efforts to collect insurance proceeds
following the December 1993 fire at the Fair Grounds Race Course. The Company
contended in such lawsuit that the insurance policy issued by Travelers provided
the Company with blanket coverage in the approximate amount of $24.2 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 asserted that Travelers was liable for the
difference between $24.2 million and the approximately $9.5 million previously
paid, plus statutory penalties of 10% of the amount not paid, interest,
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attorney's fees and costs. The Company further contended that the insurance
agent and the insurance broker who arranged for the insurance were liable to the
Company for any damages sustained if the amount of coverage was less than that
claimed by the Company. Travelers asserted that its liability under such policy
was limited to the amount which it has already paid.
In November 1996, the Company reached a settlement in such action with the
insurance agent and insurance broker. The settlement provided that the settling
defendants were to pay the Company $10 million in the aggregate, subject to an
agreement pursuant to which the settling defendants are to share with the
Company, in accordance with an agreed-upon formula, in any settlement with or
award against Travelers in that litigation. The Company's action against
Travelers was tried in September 1997 and the trial court has taken the matter
under advisement.
In December 1994, the Company filed an action in Louisiana state court against
ADT Security Systems, Mid-South, Inc. ("ADT"), the company which provided and
maintained the fire alarm system at the Fair Grounds Race Course, and other
defendants. The complaint sought damages, not otherwise compensated for by
insurance, that were allegedly caused by the negligence of one or more of the
defendants. The Company's fire insurers and another insurance company, which
insured the operator of the video poker machines, intervened in the suit
asserting subrogation claims against the same defendants.
In late 1996, the Company and the three insurance companies entered into
settlements with certain defendants, specifically the manufacturer of a lighting
ballast and an architect. After division of the settlement proceeds among the
Company and the three insurance companies and the payment of various litigation
expenses, the Company received approximately $268,000. The remainder of the case
against ADT was tried in March 1997 and resulted in an award in favor of the
Company and the intervening insurance companies of approximately $49.8 million
in the aggregate in damages against ADT, plus interest. The Company was awarded
approximately $31.8 million, plus interest, of such aggregate amount. The
judgment was appealed by ADT. In June 1997, the insurance company that insured
the initial layer of ADT's liability tendered approximately $9.3 million in
partial settlement of the action. After a dispute with the intervening insurers
over the division of these funds was resolved, in August 1997 the Company
received approximately $4 million after litigation expenses.
In December 1997, the Company entered into a settlement with ADT and its excess
insurers, pursuant to which the Company was paid $37 million and agreed to
indemnify ADT and its insurers against the judgment creditor claims of the
intervening insurers. A substantial portion of the settlement funds has been
placed in escrow pending resolution of such claims. Those settlement funds made
available to the Company, however, have been utilized by the Company to complete
the construction of its grandstand and racing facility and to repay all of the
indebtedness previously incurred in connection with such construction. As a
result of the Company's repayment of indebtedness, which has been previously
described, the video poker franchise fee exemption previously granted by the
State of Louisiana to assist the Company in obtaining construction funds, is no
longer available to the Company.
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Travelers, Royal, and the insurance company which insured the operator of the
video poker machines at the Fair Grounds Race Course filed an action in April
1997 in federal court in Louisiana against the Company, seeking a declaratory
judgment that a contract existed among the parties governing the distribution of
funds recovered in the litigation against ADT described above. The Company
denies that any such contract was ever made, but that if a contract existed, it
was breached in numerous respects by the insurance companies. During 1997 the
parties entered into a partial settlement agreement pursuant to which they
agreed, among other things, that the matter would be heard in state court in
April 1998. The Company believes that the amount of funds held in escrow as a
result of the settlement in the ADT litigation described above will be
sufficient to fund any obligations of the Company which may arise in connection
with the foregoing litigation.
Completion of Construction
Construction of the Company's new main grandstand and racing facility, which
commenced in August 1994 but was halted in September 1995, recommenced during
fiscal 1997. The facility was completed in November 1997 and opened for live
racing on November 27, 1997. The new facility is a multi-tiered concrete and
steel structure, with a total seating capacity for approximately 5,000 people.
The size of the new facility, together with the adjacent tele-track building
completed in December 1994, is approximately 217,000 square feet in the
aggregate. There is general seating in a bleacher area in the front of the
grandstand with reserved seating, including the new clubhouse area, located in
tiered areas above the grandstand. In a significant change from the design of
the old building, the paddock is located in the middle of and behind the
grandstand and may be viewed through a glass area from all levels of the
facility. The total cost of the new facility, together with furniture, fixtures,
equipment and certain fees and permit costs, was approximately $29.3 million as
of October 31, 1997. This excludes the cost of the separate tele-track facility
which was opened in 1995. Insurance and litigation proceeds recovered by the
Company, together with construction financing provided by First National Bank of
Commerce of New Orleans ("FNBC"), as described below, provided the source of
funds used in such construction. As of October 31, 1997, the Company anticipated
that it would incur an additional $2.5 million in construction costs to complete
the facility.
The proceeds from the Company's amended Loan Agreement with FNBC (the "Loan
Agreement") were used for purposes of completing the construction of the
Company's new grandstand facility. Funds received by the Company in settlement
of the litigation described above were used to repay the outstanding balance
under the Loan Agreement during fiscal 1997.
From August through October 1997, the Company borrowed funds under a second loan
which was provided by FNBC, and utilized loan proceeds in the aggregate amount
of $3.4 million for construction. The balance of $1.8 million, which represents
the difference between the aggregate loan amount and accounts disbursed for
construction, remained in a restricted escrow account at October 31, 1997. The
outstanding balance under the second loan was paid in full in November 1997.
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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, 1997 was
conducted over 88 racing days. 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 $20,200,754 in fiscal 1997, $20,180,889 in
fiscal 1996, and $25,134,326 in fiscal 1995. 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. Approximately 40% of the thoroughbred
starters at the Fair Grounds Race Course during its live racing meet, are
Louisiana-bred. The live racing meet features races with guaranteed purses in
excess of $250,000, and average purses of approximately $16,000 per race.
For the fiscal year ending October 31, 1998, the Racing Commission granted the
Company a license to conduct its live racing meet during the period from
November 27, 1997 through March 30, 1998, a total of 88 racing days, with live
racing being conducted generally five days a week (Thursday through Monday) 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, Jefferson 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 1997 racing season was approximately $166
million, a 42% increase over the previous racing season. The
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Company earns a net commission (after payment of purses) of approximately
1.5% of the 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 Corporation ("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 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, 1997 was 389,149 compared to 318,831 during
fiscal 1996 and 314,426 during fiscal 1995, and the total off-track handle at
such facilities during the 1997 fiscal year was $85,481,397, compared to
$76,293,113 during fiscal 1996 and $53,664,907 during fiscal 1995. See "Sources
of Revenue" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations."
The Company is a party to a Management Agreement (the "Management Agreement")
with Finish Line, which provides that Finish Line is to operate the tele-track
facilities owned by Jefferson Downs and transferred to the Company effective in
May 1993. The Management Agreement is for a term of ten years, which commenced
on 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.
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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 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 fiscal year ended October 31, 1997, the Company
retained approximately $404,000 in proceeds of such uncashed mutuel tickets as
compared to approximately $331,000 in fiscal 1996 and $229,000 in fiscal 1995.
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 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 and Jefferson Downs
Race Course and at the tele-tracks operated by the Company, Jefferson Downs and
Finish Line. Such agreement was for an initial term of five years, with an
option by VSI to extend the term for an additional five years, which option has
been exercised. The agreement provides that the Company is to receive a
percentage of the revenues from the operation
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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, 1997, there were a total of 297 devices in
operation at the Company's facilities (not including tele-tracks operated by
Finish Line). In addition, there were a total of 428 devices at the tele-tracks
operated by Finish Line as of October 31, 1997. The Company receives purse
supplements from the tele-tracks operated by Finish Line, which includes the
tele-tracks formerly owned by Jefferson Downs.
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 1997, 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 1997-98 racing meet.
In connection with general elections held on November 5, 1996, special elections
were held in each parish in Louisiana to approve or disapprove, on a
parish-by-parish basis, video poker and other forms of gaming. In such local
elections, the voters in every parish in which the Company maintains tele-track
facilities, with one exception, approved the continued operation of video poker
devices. The one exception was St. Tammany Parish, where the Company, through
its management agreement with Finish Line, maintains two facilities; however,
the Company does not believe that the loss of video poker revenue from such
locations will have a material adverse effect on the Company's results of
operations. In addition, notwithstanding the results of such local election in
St. Tammany Parish, the Company may continue to operate video poker devices in
St. Tammany Parish for 30 months after the date of the local referendum.
SOURCES OF REVENUE
General
During the last several fiscal years, off-track betting in connection with live
racing meets has had 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 operations.
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
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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.
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, quinella 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, 1997, the Company
received pari-mutuel commissions and related income of $20.8 million, compared
to $18.9 million for fiscal 1996 and $15.8 million for fiscal 1995. Total
commission income (less pari-mutuel taxes) was $18.9 million for fiscal 1997,
$17.1 million for fiscal 1996 and $14.1 million for fiscal 1995.
The Company also receives, during its live racing meet, a percentage of the
handle from all tele-tracks and racing facilities in Louisiana to which its
races are simulcasted, 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, 1997, the Company received
host track fees of $5.7 million and paid host track fees of $2.5 million. During
fiscal 1996 the Company received host track fees of $4.4 million and paid host
track fees of $2.2 million and during fiscal 1995 the Company received host
track fees of $2.5 million and paid host track fees of $1.5 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; however, one-half of such amount must be paid out as
purses.
Income from Video Poker Operations
For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1997, revenue from video poker operations
was $2.3 million. In addition, the Company received $1.9 million in video poker
franchise fee relief revenues. As previously described, there were a total of
297 devices in operation at the Company's facilities (not including the
tele-tracks operated by Finish Line) as of October 31, 1997.
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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 certain 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 year 2001. Revenues from the 1997 Festival
were $1 million, compared to $1.5 million for 1996 and $1.2 million for 1995.
COMPETITION
The Company continues to face 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, casinos operated on Indian reservations, 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. 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. 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 additional funds 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
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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);
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. In addition, 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, 1998, 14 licenses had
been granted and there were 12 licensed riverboats in operation in Louisiana,
three 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
construction on the permanent casino facility was begun. Construction was halted
in the Fall of 1995 when the developer of the casino filed for bankruptcy and
all gambling and construction operations have ceased.
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
12
<PAGE> 13
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. 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 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.
EMPLOYEES
During its live racing season the Company employed on-track approximately 408
persons. In connection with tele-track operations, the Company currently employs
approximately 163 persons, some of whom are employed on-track during the live
racing season and are included in the total employees referred to above.
13
<PAGE> 14
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
The Company owns its racetrack site which consists of approximately 145 acres of
land 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 owns the clubhouse and tele-track facility described herein as well
as the new grandstand facility. 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 was subject
to a 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 were subject to a security interest, securing the Company's
indebtedness to FNBC. As noted elsewhere herein, all of the Company's
indebtedness to FNBC has been repaid, and the security interest of FNBC has been
released.
The Company leases the facilities for its tele-tracks under lease agreements
which contain 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.
The Company has an agreement with Autotote Limited ("Autotote"), pursuant to
which Autotote provides the Company with wagering services, including
totalisator, computer and related services. The Company is obligated to pay
Autotote a percentage of the total pari-mutuel handle, and is also obligated to
pay Autotote certain equipment and contingent rental fees in connection with
leasing certain equipment from Autotote.
See Note 9 of Notes to the Financial Statements included elsewhere herein for a
description of the Company's lease obligations.
14
<PAGE> 15
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
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, 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:
Travelers Litigation
On May 14, 1994, the Company filed an action in the 24th Judicial Court in the
State of Louisiana against Travelers Indemnity Company of Illinois
("Travelers"), and others. The Company contended that the insurance policy
provided by Travelers provides the Company with blanket coverage in the amount
of $24.2 million in excess of the $10 million of underlying coverage.
Accordingly, the Company maintained that Travelers was liable for the difference
between $24.2 million and the amount already paid (approximately $9.5 million),
plus statutory penalties of 10% of the amount not paid, interest, attorney's
fees and costs. The Company further contended that the insurance agent and the
insurance broker who arranged for the insurance were liable to the Company for
any damages sustained including any damages sustained because the amount of
coverage is less than that claimed by the Company. Travelers' position was that
its liability under such policy was limited to the amount which it has already
paid.
In November 1996, the Company reached a joint settlement with the insurance
agent and broker pursuant to which the insurance agent and broker agreed to pay
a total of $10,000,000 to the Company. Such amount was placed in escrow until
April 9, 1997, when the Company utilized such funds in connection with the
closing of the amended Loan Agreement. The settlement agreement included a "Mary
Carter" provision whereby the insurance agent and broker are entitled to share
in any recovery that the Company may eventually obtain from Travelers in that
litigation. The Company's action against Travelers was tried in September 1997
and the trial court has taken the matter under advisement.
ADT Litigation
In December 1994, the Company filed an action in the Civil District Court for
the Parish of Orleans, State of Louisiana against ADT Security Systems
Mid-South, Inc. ("ADT") the company which provided and maintained the fire alarm
system at the race track, and other defendants. The complaint sought damages,
not otherwise compensated for by insurance, that were allegedly caused by the
negligence of one or more of the defendants. The Company's three fire insurers
and a third insurance company, which insured the operator of the video poker
machines, intervened in the suit asserting subrogation claims against the same
defendants.
In late 1996, the Company and the three insurance companies entered into
settlements with certain defendants, specifically the manufacturer of a lighting
ballast and an architect. After division of the settlement proceeds among the
Company and the three
15
<PAGE> 16
insurance companies and the payment of various litigation expenses, the Company
received approximately $268,000. The remainder of the case against ADT was tried
in March 1997 and resulted in an award in favor of the Company and the
intervening insurance companies of approximately $49.8 million in the aggregate
in damages against ADT, plus interest. The Company was awarded approximately
$31.8 million, plus interest, of such aggregate amount. The judgment was
appealed by ADT. In June 1997, the insurance company that insured the initial
layer of ADT's liability tendered approximately $9.3 million in partial
settlement of the action. After a dispute with the intervening insurers over the
division of these funds was resolved, in August 1997 the Company received
approximately $4 million after litigation expenses.
In December 1997, the Company entered into a settlement with ADT and its excess
insurers, pursuant to which the Company was paid $37 million and agreed to
indemnify ADT and its insurers against the judgment creditor claims of the
intervening insurers. A substantial portion of the settlement funds has been
placed in escrow pending resolution of such claims.
Travelers, Royal, and the insurance company which insured the operator of the
video poker machines at the Fair Grounds Race Course filed an action in April
1997 in the U. S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana against
the Company, seeking a declaratory judgment that a contract existed among the
parties governing the distribution of funds recovered in the litigation against
ADT described above. The Company denies that any such contract was ever made,
but that if a contract existed, it was breached in numerous respects by the
insurance companies. During 1997 the parties entered into a partial settlement
agreement pursuant to which they agreed, among other things, that the matter
would be heard in state court in April 1998. The Company believes that the
amount of funds held in escrow as a result of the settlement in the ADT
litigation described above will be sufficient to fund any obligations of the
Company which may arise in connection with the foregoing litigation.
United National Litigation
The Company was a defendant, along with its general liability insurance carrier,
United National Insurance Company ("United National"), 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 ("St. Paul"), the insurer of the
computerized betting equipment at the race track. St. Paul alleged that it was
subrogated to its insured's rights to collect damages and that it paid
approximately $1,175,000 to its insured for the loss of equipment in the fire.
Subsequently, United National filed a declaratory judgment action against the
Company, wherein it sought to deny coverage for St. Paul's subrogation claim.
The Company filed a counterclaim against United National, seeking coverage for
the St. Paul claim as well as payment for various other fire-related claims
previously denied by United National. This action was consolidated for trial
with the suit filed by St. Paul against the Company.
16
<PAGE> 17
Both United National and the Company moved for summary judgment on the question
of whether the exclusion relied on by United National to deny coverage for the
various claims applied or not. In 1996, the District Court ruled that the policy
exclusion relied upon by United National did not apply to the claim asserted by
St. Paul and to claims made by various jockeys and valets that were previously
paid by the Company. United National subsequently appealed this decision to the
United States Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, which held that the claim was
covered, thereby eliminating any obligation on the part of the Company to
reimburse United National.
In May 1997, the St. Paul suit was settled pursuant to an agreement whereby ADT
agreed to pay an undisclosed sum and United National, as the Company's insurer,
agreed to pay $275,000.
As to the matters described above which are still pending, 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.
OTHER LITIGATION
In 1996, a suit was filed in U.S. District Court in Baton Rouge by Livingston
Downs Racing Association ("Livingston") naming the Company and other defendants
in an antitrust/civil RICO suit. This suit is currently in early discovery
stages. Management of the Company believes the action is without merit.
Livingston had previously filed a series of other legal actions against the
Company which were resolved in the Company's favor.
A suit was also filed in 1996 by Livingston against the Company and the State of
Louisiana seeking a judgment that the State off-track betting law is
unconstitutional. The trial court ruled in the plaintiff's favor. The case is
currently on appeal to the Louisiana Supreme Court. The Company believes it has
no monetary exposure in this suit.
A suit was filed in 1996 by the Louisiana Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective
Association ("HBPA") against the Company, the State of Louisiana, and all other
pari-mutuel wagering facilities operating in Louisiana. The HBPA is seeking a
larger portion of video poker proceeds. The Company believes it is currently in
compliance with the guidelines established by the Louisiana State Police Gaming
Division, which regulates compliance with the State video poker law. The Company
does not believe it will have any monetary exposure as a result of this suit.
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.
17
<PAGE> 18
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.
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
In accordance with Instruction 3 to Item 401(b) of Regulation S-K, the following
information is submitted concerning the executive officers of the Company:
BRYAN G. KRANTZ, age 37, is President, General Manager and a director of the
Company and is President of Finish Line Management Corporation, which operates
certain off-track betting facilities in Louisiana.
MARIE G. KRANTZ, age 62, is Chairman of the Board of Directors and Treasurer of
the Company and is Secretary/Treasurer of Finish Line Management Corporation.
MERVIN MUNIZ, JR., age 55, is Vice President of the Company and Racing
Secretary.
GORDON M. ROBERTSON, age 57, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the
Company.
JOAN B. STEWART, age 65, is Secretary of the Company
No family relationships exist between or among any nominee, director or
executive officer of the Company, except that Bryan G. Krantz is the son of
Marie G. Krantz.
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER
MATTERS
The common shares of the Company are not listed on The Nasdaq Stock Market 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 set forth below represents the bid
quotations at the end of each fiscal quarter.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FISCAL 1996 1996 1997 1997
QUARTER ENDED LOW BID HIGH BID LOW BID HIGH BID
------------- ------- -------- ------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
January 31 $16.00 $16.00 $ 12.50 $ 20.00
April 30 $14.00 $14.00 $ 11.00 $ 25.00
July 31 $16.00 $16.00 $ 14.00 $ 18.00
October 31 $15.00 $15.00 $ 15.00 $ 25.00
</TABLE>
18
<PAGE> 19
As of January 1, 1998, there were approximately 430 shareholders of record of
the 468,580 issued and outstanding common shares of the Company.
There were no cash dividends declared or paid during fiscal 1997, 1996 or 1995.
The Company is not subject to any restrictions (other than non-contractual
business considerations) affecting its present or future ability to pay
dividends with respect to its common shares.
See Item 7, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations."
19
<PAGE> 20
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
For the Five Years Ended October 31
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995 1994 1993
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATING REVENUES $ 30,980,259 $ 27,496,500 $ 23,031,031 $ 22,371,571 $ 30,718,482
OPERATING EXPENSES 32,201,167 29,809,843 26,394,452 26,094,568 34,308,263
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
LOSS FROM OPERATIONS (1,220,908) (2,313,343) (3,363,421) (3,722,997) (3,589,781)
INTEREST EXPENSE 266,435 791,566 12,318 284,926 502,624
OTHER INCOME 3,013,320 4,279,503 2,459,163 605,553 651,950
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE
INCOME TAXES, MINORITY
INTEREST, EXTRAORDINARY
ITEM, AND CUMULATIVE EFFECT
OF CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING
PRINCIPLES 1,525,977 1,174,594 (916,576) (3,402,370) (3,440,455)
PROVISION (BENEFIT)
FOR INCOME TAXES 775,288 294,896 (300,460) (1,878,635) (383,787)
MINORITY INTEREST -- -- -- -- 142,661
EXTRAORDINARY ITEM - GAIN
FROM FIRE (net of taxes) 9,022,525 -- -- 9,312,758 --
CUMULATIVE EFFECT OF
CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING
PRINCIPLES -- -- 104,000 (75,094) --
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
NET INCOME (LOSS) $ 9,773,214 $ 879,698 $ (512,116) $ 7,713,929 $ (3,199,329)
============ ============ ============ ============ ============
COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING 469,940 469,940 469,940 469,940 469,940
============ ============ ============ ============ ============
NET INCOME (LOSS) PER COMMON
SHARE $ 20.80 $ 1.87 $ (1.09) $ 16.48 $ (6.83)
============ ============ ============ ============ ============
</TABLE>
20
<PAGE> 21
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
CASH DIVIDENDS DECLARED
PER SHARE $ None. $ None. $ None. $ None. $ .20
============ ============ ============ ============ ============
TOTAL ASSETS $ 48,089,820 $ 34,791,597 $ 30,954,654 $ 26,470,322 $ 20,496,529
============ ============ ============ ============ ============
NOTES PAYABLE (EXCLUDING
CURRENT PORTION) $ - $ - $ - $ 1,000,000 $ 6,000,000
============ ============ ============ ============ ============
</TABLE>
21
<PAGE> 22
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Fiscal 1997 Compared to Fiscal 1996
Revenues. During the fiscal years ended October 31, 1997 and 1996, the Company
derived its pari-mutuel income by conducting live racing meets of 88 days during
each fiscal year, 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 Jefferson, 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.
For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1996, the Company reported total in-state
pari-mutuel wagering of $105,682,151 compared to $96,474,002 in fiscal 1996.
Comparative pari-mutuel wagering and attendance figures for the fiscal years
ended October 31, 1997 and 1996 are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1996 1995
------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C>
Pari-mutuel wagering:
On-track handle $ 20,200,754 $ 20,180,889
Off-track handle 85,481,397 76,293,113
------------ ------------
Total in-state wagering $105,682,151 $ 96,474,002
============ ============
Out-of-state simulcast
handle $165,823,806 $116,590,172
============ ============
Total Attendance 499,131 426,849
============ ============
</TABLE>
Although in previous fiscal years, the Company had experienced declines in
on-track handle due to the limited amenities afforded by the temporary
facilities, the on-track handle for fiscal 1997 was slightly higher than that
for fiscal 1996.
The $9,188,284, or 12%, increase in off-track handle is primarily the result of
the continued success and growth of the Jefferson Parish tele-track facility
opened in October 1995. Handle at the Jefferson Parish facility during fiscal
1997 increased 31.4% over the prior fiscal year.
The $49,233,634, or 42%, increase in out-of-state handle is the result of
continued efforts to telecast the Company's races to new out-of-state markets.
During the fiscal 1997 race meet, there were 14 new markets telecasting the
Company's races, including
22
<PAGE> 23
tracks in Ohio, Oklahoma, Florida, Michigan and New York, which accounted for
approximately $27.7 million, or 56%, of the handle increase.
For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1997, the Company reported net income of
$9,773,214, compared to net income of $879,698 in fiscal 1996. The increase is
primarily the result of litigation settlements and increases in mutuel income
compared to fiscal 1996, partially offset by an increase in racing expenses over
the prior fiscal year. These are described in more detail below.
As a result of the increase in total wagering, the Company's operating revenues
have increased by $3,483,759, or 13%, from fiscal 1996. This included increases
of $1,887,524, or 10%, in pari-mutuel commissions, $73,651, or 22%, in uncashed
mutuel tickets, $1,322,817, or 30%, in host track fees and $391,126, or 20%, in
video poker revenue. The Jefferson Parish tele-track facility accounted for a
significant portion of the increase in video poker revenues. The increase was
partially offset by increased pari-mutual taxes of $222,074.
Racing Expenses. Total racing expenses increased by $2,708,119, or 10.7%, over
fiscal 1996, primarily as a result of increases in purses, racing salaries,
contracts and services, host track fees, advertising, rent, repairs and
maintenance and program paper, forms and other supplies arising out of increased
pari-mutuel handle. This increase was partially offset by a decrease in
depreciation expense and utilities and miscellaneous expense. The temporary
racing facilities which the Company had utilized since January 1994 became fully
depreciated in January 1997.
General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses for the
fiscal year ended October 31, 1997 decreased $316,155, or 7.2%, from fiscal 1996
primarily due to decreases in salaries resulting from a reduction in general and
administrative staff. The decrease was partially offset by increases in
contracts and services for the construction of the new main facility and by
increases in office expense. Other Income (Expenses). Total other income
decreased $741,052, or 21.2%, from fiscal 1996 primarily as a result of a
decrease in Jazz and Heritage Festival revenue and video poker franchise fee
relief revenue, partially offset by a gain of $115,602 on the sale of the
salvage from the removal of the fully depreciated temporary facilities, and a
decrease in interest expense of $525,131 relating to the bank financing
discussed elsewhere herein.
The Jazz and Heritage Festival revenue decreased $486,218, or 31.7%, due to
inclement weather during the first weekend of the seven-day festival in fiscal
1997. The Company receives revenues on the sale of certain beverages during the
festival, which is held at the Fair Grounds Race Course.
Video Poker franchise fee relief revenue decreased $967,600, or 33.5%, compared
to fiscal 1996. The revenue provided by the franchise fee relief legislation
described elsewhere herein was available for only a few months during fiscal
1997, compared to the entire 12 months in fiscal 1996. Because the Company paid
the balance
23
<PAGE> 24
outstanding under the Loan Agreement, there will be no franchise fee relief
available to the Company in the current fiscal year and thereafter.
Extraordinary Items. During fiscal year 1997, the Company received settlement
payments in connection with the fire-related litigation described herein in the
aggregate amount of $14,321,469. These proceeds are net of related income tax
expense of $5,298,944.
Income Taxes. In addition to the components of net income previously discussed,
the net income for fiscal 1997 included income tax expense of $775,288 compared
to an income tax expense of $294,896 in fiscal 1996.
Fiscal 1996 Compared to Fiscal 1995
Revenues. During the fiscal years ended October 31, 1996 and 1995, the Company
derived its pari-mutuel income by conducting live racing meets of 88 days during
each fiscal year, 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-track facilities in Terrebonne, St. Tammany, and
Jefferson Parishes, Louisiana that were formerly operated by Jefferson Downs.
For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1996, the Company reported total in-state
pari-mutuel wagering of $96,474,002 compared to $78,799,233 in fiscal 1995.
Comparative pari-mutuel wagering and attendance figures for the fiscal years
ended October 31, 1996 and 1995 are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1996 1995
------------ -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Pari-mutuel wagering:
On-track handle $ 20,180,889 $25,134,326
Off-track handle 76,293,113 53,664,907
------------ -----------
Total in-state wagering $ 96,474,002 $78,799,233
============ ===========
Out-of-state simulcast
handle $116,590,172 $88,588,953
============ ===========
Total Attendance 426,849 445,480
============ ===========
</TABLE>
The Company believes that the $4,953,437, or 20%, decline in on-track handle was
primarily the result of the limited amenities afforded by the temporary
facilities as well as continued competition from other forms of gaming.
The $22,628,206, or 42%, increase in off-track handle was primarily the result
of the operation of the Jefferson Parish tele-track facility for a full 12
months during fiscal
24
<PAGE> 25
1996 as opposed to only a few days of operation in fiscal 1995, as well as the
implementation of full card simulcasting in January 1996. Full card simulcasting
enables the Company to show an unlimited number of races of an out-of-state
meet. Prior to full card simulcasting, such races were limited when either the
Company or another in-state race track was racing live.
The $28,001,219, or 32%, increase in out-of-state handle was the result of
continued efforts to telecast the Company's races to new out-of-state markets.
During the fiscal 1996 race meet, there were 20 new markets telecasting the
Company's races including various Illinois tracks which accounted for
approximately $21.4 million, or 76%, of the handle increase.
For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1996, the Company reported net income
before income taxes of $1,174,594 compared to a net loss of $916,576 in fiscal
1995. This improvement was primarily the result of increases in mutuel income
and video poker franchise fee relief compared to fiscal 1995 partially offset by
an increase in general and administrative expenses over the prior fiscal year.
These are described in more detail below.
As a result of the increase in total wagering, the Company's fiscal 1996
operating revenues increased by $4,465,469, or 19%, from fiscal 1995. This
included increases of $3,177,756, or 20%, in pari-mutuel commissions, $101,936,
or 44%, in uncashed mutuel tickets $532,327, or 14%, in host track fees and
$823,424, or 73%, in video poker revenue. The new Jefferson Parish tele-track
facility accounted for a significant portion of the increase in video poker
revenues.
Racing Expenses. Total racing expenses increased by $3,140,850, or 14%, over
fiscal 1995, primarily as a result of increases in purses, racing salaries, host
track fees, advertising, rent and utilities arising out of increased pari-mutuel
handle and the opening of the Jefferson Parish tele-track in October 1995. This
increase was partially offset by a decrease in cost of concessions due to lower
on-track attendance.
General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses for the
fiscal year ended October 31, 1996 increased $274,336, or 6.6%, from fiscal 1995
primarily due to an increase in property taxes on the new tele-track facility
completed in December 1994 and increased legal fees resulting from the ongoing
fire related litigation. This increase was partially offset by a decrease in
administrative salaries in fiscal 1996 due to a reduction in staff.
Other Income (Expenses). Total other income increased $1,040,887, or 43%, from
fiscal 1995 primarily as a result of an increase in Jazz and Heritage Festival
revenue and an increase in video poker franchise fee relief revenue. This
increased revenue was partially offset by a decrease of $618,182 in fire
insurance settlements from the fire litigation discussed elsewhere herein and an
increase in interest expense of $779,248 relating to the bank financing
discussed elsewhere herein.
25
<PAGE> 26
The Jazz and Heritage Festival revenue increased $381,427 or 33% due to record
festival crowds in fiscal 1996. The Company receives revenues on the sale of
beverages during the seven-day festival held at the Fair Grounds Race Course.
Video Poker franchise fee relief revenue increased $2,185,474, or 310% over
fiscal 1995. The revenue provided by the franchise fee relief legislation
described elsewhere herein was available for the entire 12 months in fiscal 1996
compared to only 5 months in fiscal 1995.
Net Income. The Company reported net income of $879,698 in fiscal 1996 compared
to a net loss of $512,116 in fiscal 1995. In addition to the components of net
income previously discussed, the net income for fiscal 1996 included income tax
expense of $294,896 compared to an income tax benefit of $300,460 in fiscal
1995. The Company also recognized a benefit of $104,000 in fiscal 1995 relating
to its change in accounting methods for investments.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
General
Cash and cash equivalents decreased $1,072,178 during fiscal 1997 compared to an
increase of $5,146,344 during fiscal 1996. The decrease in cash and cash
equivalents in fiscal 1997 was the result of cash used for financing of
$4,633,320, partially offset by cash provided by operating activities of
$2,493,968 and cash provided by investing activities of $1,245,570. Financing
and investing activities were primarily related to the payment of the Company's
construction obligations and the repayment of the Company's indebtedness
relating to such construction.
As of October 31, 1997, the Company had received cumulatively, since the
December 1993 fire, approximately $34.1 million in insurance proceeds resulting
from fire loss claims submitted to the Company's insurance carriers or from
litigation settlements. Such amount includes the settlement payments received by
the Company during fiscal 1997 in the aggregate amount of $14,321,469.
In November 1996, the Company reached a settlement against certain parties in
the Travelers litigation described herein, which provided that the settling
defendants were to pay the Company $10 million in the aggregate, subject to an
agreement pursuant to which the settling defendants are to share with the
Company, in accordance with an agreed-upon formula, in any settlement with or
award against Travelers. Funds received by the Company from such settlement were
utilized by the Company in connection with the April 1997 refinancing of the
Company's indebtedness to FNBC. In August 1997, the Company received $4,017,000
in connection with a partial settlement of the judgment which the Company
obtained against ADT. See Notes 1, 3 and 5 of Notes to Financial Statements. Of
such funds, approximately $2,800,000 were used to repay the outstanding balance
under the Loan Agreement with FNBC. The remaining portion of such funds was
deposited into an interest bearing escrow account at FNBC, to be used in
repaying the indebtedness under the additional $5,221,775 loan, which was paid
in full in November 1997.
26
<PAGE> 27
Construction of the Company's new main grandstand and racing facility, which
commenced in August 1994 but was halted in September 1995, recommenced during
fiscal 1997. The facility was substantially completed in November 1997 and
opened for live racing on November 27, 1997. The total cost of constructing the
facility, excluding the tele-track facility which was opened in 1995, was
approximately $29 million as of October 31, 1997; of such amount, approximately
$12.5 million was spent during fiscal 1997. Funds to complete the construction
were provided from the FNBC financing and the litigation settlements described
herein.
In connection with the receipt of the settlement proceeds described herein, the
Company recognized an extraordinary gain for fiscal 1997 of $9.02 million. As a
result, the Company has a deferred tax liability of approximately $10.3 million.
This deferred liability is to be paid over a 39-year period, in accordance with
Treasury Regulations.
All of the Company's indebtedness to FNBC which was incurred in connection with
the construction of the new facility has been repaid. As a result, the video
poker franchise fee relief which was made available to the Company by
legislation enacted in 1994 is no longer available to the Company. During the
last four fiscal years, the Company received approximately $5.5 million in the
aggregate in franchise fee relief.
The Company believes that its existing cash and cash from operations will be
adequate to fund operations for the next 12 months. For the longer term, it is
difficult to determine what effect the change from the temporary tent facilities
to the new permanent facility will have on both operating income and expenses.
While the Company believes that the completion of the new facility will have a
positive effect on attendance and wagering, there can be no assurance of any
increases in patronage or handle. The Company has engaged in discussions with
FNBC concerning entering into an ongoing credit facility; however, no such
facility has been obtained, and there can be no assurance that any such
financing will be available on terms acceptable to the Company.
Impact of Inflation
To date, inflation has not had a material effect in the Company's operations.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
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, 1997 and 1996
Statements of Operations for the Three Years Ended October 31, 1997
27
<PAGE> 28
Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity for the Three Years Ended
October 31, 1997
Statements of Cash Flows for the Three Years Ended October 31, 1997
28
<PAGE> 29
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, 1997 and 1996, and the related statements of operations, of
changes in stockholders' equity, and of cash flows for each of the three years
in the period ended October 31, 1997. These financial statements 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,
1997, and 1996 and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of
the three years in the period ended October 31, 1997 in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles.
January 23, 1998
29
<PAGE> 30
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
BALANCE SHEETS
October 31
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ASSETS 1997 1996
------------ -----------
<S> <C> <C>
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents $ 5,192,756 $ 6,264,934
Cash and cash
equivalents - restricted 2,643,702 133,929
Accounts receivable 1,348,530 866,816
Mutuel settlements 38,892 82,535
Investment securities -
available for sale 592,878 188,125
Inventory 95,303 84,248
Deferred income taxes -- 310,940
Prepaid expenses 353,167 425,983
------------ -----------
Total Current Assets 10,265,228 8,357,510
------------ -----------
OTHER ASSETS 125,516 101,684
------------ -----------
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Buildings and improvements 40,587,514 13,820,927
Construction in progress -- 15,841,736
Land improvements 4,340,935 4,270,535
Temporary facilities -- 2,686,044
Automotive equipment 849,201 824,720
Machinery and equipment 2,365,837 891,630
Furniture and fixtures 326,898 171,631
------------ -----------
Total 48,470,385 38,507,223
Less: accumulated depreciation
and amortization (14,057,590) (15,461,101)
------------ -----------
Depreciable property - net 34,412,795 23,046,122
Land 3,286,281 3,286,281
------------ -----------
Property, plant and
equipment - net 37,699,076 26,332,403
------------ -----------
TOTAL ASSETS $ 48,089,820 $34,791,597
============ ===========
</TABLE>
(Continued)
30
<PAGE> 31
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
BALANCE SHEETS (CONTINUED)
October 31
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY 1997 1996
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Notes payable $ 5,318,903 $ 9,952,223
Accounts payable 1,097,655 651,621
Construction contract payable 1,156,726 --
Accrued liabilities:
Deferred purses 7,425,179 6,693,055
Host track fees 416,516 342,153
Uncashed mutuel tickets 364,246 332,016
Deferred income taxes 204,906 --
Other 319,944 348,258
Deferred revenues 140,840 6,000
Income taxes payable 121,000 50,000
----------- -----------
Total Current Liabilities 16,565,915 18,375,326
----------- -----------
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES 9,846,104 4,525,687
----------- -----------
Total Liabilities 26,412,019 22,901,013
----------- -----------
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES -- --
----------- -----------
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Capital stock - no par value;
authorized 600,000 shares,
469,940 shares issued and
468,580 shares outstanding 1,525,092 1,525,092
Additional paid-in capital 1,936,702 1,936,702
Retained earnings 18,254,654 8,481,440
Unrealized loss on investment
securities-available for sale (3,122) (17,125)
----------- -----------
Total 21,713,326 11,926,109
Less: treasury stock at cost,
1,360 shares at 1997
and 1996 (35,525) (35,525)
----------- -----------
Total Stockholders' Equity 21,677,801 11,890,584
----------- -----------
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY $48,089,820 $34,791,597
=========== ===========
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
31
<PAGE> 32
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
For the Years Ended October 31
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
------------ ------------ -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
REVENUES
Pari-mutuel
commissions $ 20,832,282 $ 18,944,758 $ 15,766,962
Breakage 481,554 439,204 355,283
Uncashed mutuel tickets 404,405 330,754 229,358
------------ ------------ ------------
Total 21,718,241 19,714,716 16,351,603
Less: pari-mutuel tax (2,792,092) (2,570,018) (2,204,735)
------------ ------------ ------------
Commission income 18,926,149 17,144,698 14,146,868
Host track fees 5,733,544 4,410,727 3,878,400
------------ ------------ ------------
Total Mutuel Income 24,659,693 21,555,425 18,025,268
Concessions 1,485,227 1,467,187 1,596,941
Admissions (net of taxes) 296,870 351,569 339,319
Parking 20,581 14,967 14,401
Video poker 2,346,677 1,955,551 1,132,127
Programs and forms 1,491,628 1,474,947 1,317,547
Miscellaneous 679,583 676,854 605,428
------------ ------------ ------------
Total Operating
Revenues 30,980,259 27,496,500 23,031,031
------------ ------------ ------------
RACING EXPENSES
Purses 11,041,607 9,558,545 7,754,856
Salaries and related
taxes and benefits 5,702,370 5,092,149 4,895,632
Contracts and services 2,333,814 2,069,396 1,997,706
Depreciation 1,589,041 1,810,257 1,797,256
Host track fees 2,482,926 2,178,478 1,481,528
Program paper, forms and
other supplies 1,587,615 1,545,963 1,250,947
Utilities 674,071 711,022 580,424
Advertising and promotion 917,817 781,935 701,860
Cost of sales -
concessions 593,774 541,691 688,965
Repairs and maintenance 383,343 300,332 317,102
Rent 304,138 303,006 271,794
Miscellaneous 488,113 497,736 511,590
------------ ------------ ------------
Total Racing
Expenses $ 28,098,629 $ 25,390,510 $ 22,249,660
------------ ------------ ------------
</TABLE>
(Continued)
32
<PAGE> 33
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE
EXPENSES
Salaries and related
taxes and benefits $ 993,049 $ 1,225,683 $ 1,287,744
Insurance 866,343 950,882 918,356
Property taxes 399,541 395,863 238,570
Legal, audit and director
fees 1,129,814 1,203,501 973,249
Contracts and services 197,603 159,521 163,972
Office expenses 350,090 303,398 340,923
Miscellaneous 166,098 180,485 221,978
------------ ------------ ------------
Total General and
Administrative
Expenses 4,102,538 4,419,333 4,144,792
------------ ------------ ------------
LOSS FROM OPERATIONS (1,220,908) (2,313,343) (3,363,421)
------------ ------------ ------------
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)
Jazz and Heritage Festi-
val income - net 1,048,753 1,534,971 1,153,749
Video poker franchise fee
revenue 1,921,362 2,888,962 703,488
Interest expense (266,435) (791,566) (12,318)
Interest income 78,352 31,990 95,825
Short-term loan closing
costs (151,147) (159,702) (101,799)
Insurance settlements -- -- 618,182
Gain on sale of
property, plant and
equipment 115,602 20,362 --
Gain (Loss) on sale of
securities available
for sale 398 (37,080) (10,282)
------------ ------------ ------------
Total Other Income 2,746,885 3,487,937 2,446,845
------------ ------------ ------------
</TABLE>
(Continued)
33
<PAGE> 34
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
------------ ------------ -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE
INCOME TAXES,
EXTRAORDINARY ITEM, AND
CUMULATIVE EFFECT OF
CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING
PRINCIPLES $ 1,525,977 $ 1,174,594 $ (916,576)
PROVISION (BENEFIT)
FOR INCOME TAXES 775,288 294,896 (300,460)
------------ ------------ ------------
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE
EXTRAORDINARY ITEM AND
CUMULATIVE EFFECT OF
CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING
PRINCIPLES 750,689 879,698 (616,116)
EXTRAORDINARY ITEM -
GAIN FROM FIRE (net
of $5,298,944 of related
deferred income taxes
in 1997) 9,022,525 -- --
CUMULATIVE EFFECT OF
CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING
PRINCIPLES -- -- 104,000
------------ ------------ ------------
NET INCOME (LOSS) $ 9,773,214 $ 879,698 $ (512,116)
============ ============ ============
</TABLE>
(Continued)
34
<PAGE> 35
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
--------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
PER SHARE OF COMMON STOCK:
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE
EXTRAORDINARY ITEM
AND CUMULATIVE EFFECT
OF CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING
PRINCIPLES $ 1.60 $ 1.87 $ (1.32)
EXTRAORDINARY ITEM,
NET OF INCOME TAXES 19.20 -- --
CUMULATIVE EFFECT OF
CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING
PRINCIPLES -- -- .23
--------- --------- ---------
NET INCOME (LOSS) $ 20.80 $ 1.87 $ (1.09)
========= ========= =========
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
35
<PAGE> 36
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
For the Years Ended October 31
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Unrealized
Loss On
Additional Securities Total
Capital Paid-In Retained Available Treasury Stockholders'
Stock Capital Earnings For Sale Stock Equity
---------- ----------- ------------ ---------- -------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
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
Net income -- -- 879,698 -- -- 879,698
Change in unrealized loss
on securities available
for sale -- -- -- 37,759 -- 37,759
Loss on sale of treasury
stock -- (5,648) -- -- -- (5,648)
Treasury stock sold
(400) shares -- -- -- -- 10,448 10,448
---------- ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------
Balance, October 31, 1996 1,525,092 1,936,702 8,481,440 (17,125) (35,525) 11,890,584
Net Income -- -- 9,773,214 -- -- 9,773,214
Change in unrealized loss
on securities available for
sale -- -- -- 14,003 -- 14,003
---------- ----------- ----------- -------- -------- ------------
Balance, October 31, 1997 $1,525,092 $ 1,936,702 $18,254,654 $ (3,122) $(35,525) $ 21,677,801
========== =========== =========== ======== ======== ============
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
36
<PAGE> 37
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the Years Ended October 31
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
------------ ------------- -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING
ACTIVITIES
Net income (loss) $ 9,773,214 $ 879,698 $ (512,116)
Adjustments to reconcile
net income (loss) to net
cash provided by
operating activities:
Depreciation 1,589,041 1,810,257 1,797,256
Gain on sale
of property (115,602) (20,363) --
Provision for deferred
income taxes 5,836,263 244,896 (218,851)
Charge for cumulative
effect of changes in
accounting for income
taxes and investment
securities -- -- (104,000)
Loss (Gain) on sale of
investment securities (398) 37,080 10,282
Gain from fire (14,321,469) -- --
Change in assets and
liabilities:
(Increase) decrease in:
Accounts receivable and
mutuel settlements (438,071) 91,868 (328,198)
Insurance proceeds
receivable -- -- 487,341
Inventory (11,055) (3,683) (6,707)
Refundable income taxes -- -- 566,289
Prepaid expenses 72,816 131,050 (196,646)
Cash and cash
equivalents -
restricted (2,509,773) 20,980 (154,909)
</TABLE>
(Continued)
37
<PAGE> 38
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Increase (decrease) in:
Accounts payable and
accrued liabilities 524,312 (5,541) 3,582,759
Deferred purses 732,124 1,026,843 165,727
Deferred revenues 134,840 (44,149) (3,431)
Construction contract
payable 1,156,726 -- --
Income taxes payable 71,000 50,000 --
------------ ------------ ------------
Total Adjustments (7,279,246) 3,339,238 5,596,912
------------ ------------ ------------
Net cash provided by
operating activities 2,493,968 4,218,936 5,084,796
------------ ------------ ------------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING
ACTIVITIES
Capital expenditures (12,965,686) (5,650,671) (14,625,149)
Purchase of securities
available for sale (500,000) -- (763,872)
Proceeds from sale of
securities available
for sale 108,852 270,454 1,714,052
Deposits and other assets (23,832) (30,420) (36,690)
Proceeds from sale of
property 126,371 91,964 --
Proceeds from fire
litigation settlements 14,321,469 -- --
------------ ------------ ------------
Net cash provided by
(used for) investing
activities 1,067,174 (5,318,673) (13,711,659)
------------ ------------ ------------
</TABLE>
(Continued)
38
<PAGE> 39
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)
For the Years Ended October 31
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING
ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from short-term
borrowings 17,083,985 10,307,260 3,533,443
Principal repayments
of short-term borrowings (21,717,305) (4,061,179) (1,870,300)
------------ ------------ ------------
Net cash provided by
(used for) financing
activities (4,633,320) 6,246,081 1,706,143
------------ ------------ ------------
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS (1,072,178) 5,146,344 (6,920,720)
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
AT BEGINNING OF YEAR 6,264,934 1,118,590 8,039,310
------------ ------------ ------------
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
AT END OF YEAR $ 5,192,756 $ 6,264,934 $ 1,118,590
============ ============ ============
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
39
<PAGE> 40
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For
the Years Ended October 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
NOTE 1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
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. Most of the Company's revenues and receivables are
dependent on patrons of horse racing and other horse racing facilities and
tele-tracks. This results in a concentration of risk and could be affected in
the near term by laws or economic conditions that affect this industry.
Uninsured Cash Deposits
As of October 31, 1997 and 1996, the Company had deposits in various financial
institutions in the aggregate of $8,740,475 and $7,195,692, respectively. Such
deposits exceeded insured limits as of October 31, 1997 and 1996 by $3,399,415
and $1,850,588, 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.
Cash and Cash Equivalents - Restricted
As of October 31, 1997, restricted assets totalled $2,643,702 which included a
certificate of deposit of $114,581 pledged as a security deposit for the
Company's worker's compensation program. Also included is an escrow account of
$674,360 and a money market account of $1,847,858 which were held by FNBC and
were restricted for construction payments. As of October 31, 1996, restricted
assets totalled $133,929 relating to the 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.
40
<PAGE> 41
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended October 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
NOTE 1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
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 was provided by the
straight-line method over an estimated useful life of 3 years and became fully
depreciated in fiscal 1997. 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.
Accounts Receivable
The Company has recorded accounts receivable from pari-mutuel wagering, video
poker and other activities. The majority of these receivables are settled at
least monthly and are considered fully collectable. No allowance for doubtful
accounts is considered necessary.
Deferred Revenues
Promotional fees and reserved seating deposits received by the Company are
deferred and recognized as income over the duration of the racing meet.
Investment Securities - Available for Sale
The Company classifies its investment securities as held to maturity or
available for sale based upon its ability and intent to hold such securities.
The Company has classified all of its securities as available for sale and
reports them at fair value with the unrealized gain or loss shown as a separate
component of stockholders' equity. 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 ended October 31, 1995
relating to its adoption of SFAS No. 115. The Company records realized gains and
losses on investment securities as they are sold, using the specific
identification method.
Fair Value Disclosures
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 107 "Disclosures about
Fair Value of Financial Instruments", effective December 31, 1995, requires
disclosures of fair value information
41
<PAGE> 42
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended October 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
NOTE 1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
about financial instruments, whether or not recognized in the balance sheet, for
which it is practicable to estimate that value. In cases where quoted market
prices are not available, fair values are based on estimates using present value
or other valuation techniques. Those techniques are significantly affected by
the assumptions used, including the discount rate and estimates of future cash
flows. In that regard, the derived fair value estimates cannot be substantiated
by comparison to independent markets and, in many cases, could not be realized
in immediate settlement of the instrument. SFAS No. 107 excludes certain
financial instruments and all nonfinancial instruments from its disclosure
requirements. The following methods and assumptions were used in estimating the
fair value disclosures for financial instruments.
Cash and Cash Equivalents - The carrying amount for cash and cash equivalents
at October 31, 1997 and 1996, approximates fair value.
Investment Securities - The fair value of stocks and bonds is the quoted
market price. At October 31, 1997 and 1996, all of the Company's investment
securities are classified as available for sale and are carried on the balance
sheet at their quoted market price.
Notes Payable - The fair value of demand notes is the amount payable on demand
at the balance sheet date. The fair value of debt that is not payable on
demand is estimated by discounting the future cash flows using the market
rates offered as of October 31, 1997 and 1996, for similar debt with the same
remaining maturities. The fair value of the Company's current notes payable
approximated the amounts recorded in the balance sheet at October 31, 1997 and
1996.
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
The Company records income taxes in accordance with SFAS No. 109. Deferred tax
assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences
attributable to differences between the financial
42
<PAGE> 43
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended October 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
NOTE 1 - SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
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 No. 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. The most
significant deferred tax items of the Company relates to the deferred tax gain
on fire as further discussed in Note 6.
Deferred Purses
Deferred purses include those amounts required by Louisiana law to be withheld
from commissions, video poker revenues, or out-of-state host fee income earned
by a racing 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 468,580 common shares outstanding for fiscal
1997 and 1996 and 468,180 common shares outstanding for fiscal 1995.
Use of Estimates
Management uses estimates and assumptions in preparing financial statements in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Those estimates and
assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, and the reported revenues and
expenses. Actual results could vary from the estimates that were used.
NOTE 2 - STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES
Cash was paid during the following fiscal years for:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Interest $ 454,457 $ 802,797 $ 245,296
============ ============ ============
Taxes $ 166,969 -- --
============ ============ ============
</TABLE>
The 1997 and 1995 cash paid for interest includes capitalized interest of
$214,103 and $232,979, respectively. The Company halted construction of its
facilities in September 1995 due to
43
<PAGE> 44
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended October 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
NOTE 2 - STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES
financing restrictions, and resumed the construction in May 1997 once financing
was obtained. As a result, in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles, construction interest was capitalized only during construction
periods. No construction interest was capitalized in fiscal 1996.
There were no noncash investing or financing activities for fiscal years ended
October 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995.
NOTE 3 - INVESTMENT SECURITIES AVAILABLE FOR SALE
At October 31, 1997, and 1996, investment securities were classified as
available for sale and consisted of the following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1997 Gross
Amortized Market Unrealized
Cost Value Loss
------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Preferred and
common stocks $ 96,000 $ 92,878 $ (3,122)
============ ============ ============
Corporate debt
securities $ 500,000 $ 500,000 $ --
============ ============ ============
<CAPTION>
1996 1996 Gross
Amortized Market Unrealized
Cost Value Loss
------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Preferred and common
stocks $ 205,250 $ 188,125 $ (17,125)
============ ============ ============
</TABLE>
During the fiscal years ended October 31, 1997 and 1996, proceeds from sales of
investment securities available for sale were $108,852 and $270,454
respectively, and gross realized gains (losses) from such sales were $398, and
($37,080), respectively. The Company's corporate debt securities mature on
December 15, 1997.
44
<PAGE> 45
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended October 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
NOTE 4 - NOTES PAYABLE - CURRENT
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
October 31
-------------------------------
1997 1996
------------ -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Louie J. Roussel, III;
(Assignment by Victory Life
Insurance Company in 1996);
Demand note, variable based on
the prime interest rate, 8.25% at
October 31, 1996, secured by a
first mortgage note on certain
property. $ -- $ 500,000
Louie J. Roussel, III; Demand note,
variable based on the prime interest
rate, 8.25% at October 31, 1996,
secured by a first mortgage note
on certain property. -- 500,000
Marie G. Krantz; Demand note,
variable based on the prime
interest rate, 8.25% at
October 31, 1996. -- 1,000,000
First National Bank of Commerce
("FNBC"); Note A, interest at
9% secured by a second mortgage
note on certain property,
342,584 common shares of the
Company owned in the aggregate
by the Krantzes and Jefferson
Downs Corporation, and the video
poker franchise fee exemption,
due October 31, 1996. -- 7,799,044
First National Bank of Commerce
("FNBC"); Note B, interest at
9% secured by a second mortgage
note on certain property, and
342,584 common shares of the
Company owned in the aggregate
by Jefferson Downs Corporation,
due October 31, 1998. 5,221,725 --
</TABLE>
45
<PAGE> 46
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended October 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
NOTE 4 - NOTES PAYABLE - CURRENT
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
October 31
-------------------------------
1997 1996
------------ -----------
<S> <C> <C>
INAC Corp.; Installment note -
insurance premium financing;
interest at 7%, final installment
due February 1997. -- 153,179
INAC Corp; installment note -
insurance premium financing;
interest at 6.69%, final installment
due February 1998. 97,178 --
------------ -----------
$ 5,318,903 $ 9,952,223
============ ===========
</TABLE>
During the fiscal year ended October 31, 1997, the Company repaid the
outstanding balance of its amended Loan Agreement with FNBC dated April 1997,
with the proceeds of the fire litigation settlements described elsewhere herein.
As a result, the video poker franchise fee exemption, which was granted to
Company after the December 1993 fire to assist them in repaying construction
debts, is no longer available.
As previously reported, in April 1997, the Company and FNBC agreed to a second
loan of $5,221,725 for use in completing construction. This loan provided for
monthly payments of interest, with the entire principal balance outstanding due
on October 31, 1998. From August 1997 through October 1997, the Company borrowed
such funds and utilized approximately $3.4 million of the loan proceeds for
construction. The balance of approximately $1.8 million, which represents the
difference between the aggregate loan amount and amounts disbursed for
construction purposes, remained in a restricted escrow account maintained by
FNBC at October 31, 1997. See Note 13 regarding subsequent repayment of this
loan.
NOTE 5 - LITIGATION SETTLEMENTS
As also discussed in Note 7, on November 18, 1996, the Company reached a
settlement in its litigation with its insurance agent and insurance broker. The
settlement provided that the settling defendants were to pay the Company $10
million in the aggregate. Such amount has been paid and applied to the
outstanding construction loan with FNBC during the current fiscal year. In
addition, each such settling defendant will share with the Company, in
accordance with an agreed-upon formula, in any settlement with or award of
damages against Travelers in that litigation.
46
<PAGE> 47
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended October 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
NOTE 5 - LITIGATION SETTLEMENTS (CONTINUED)
Also as described in Note 7, the remainder of the Company's action against ADT
was tried beginning in March 1997. On March 26, 1997, the jury returned a
verdict in favor of the Company, awarding the Company approximately $49.8
million in damages against ADT, plus interest and the intervening insurance
companies. The judgement has been appealed by ADT. A portion of the funds were
received in August 1997 and used to pay construction cost related to the new
facility. A substantial portion of the settlement funds has been placed in
escrow pending resolution of certain matters. Also see Note 13 regarding
additional settlements subsequent to October 31, 1997.
The litigation settlement payments received during fiscal 1997 have been
reported as extraordinary items on the Company's Statement of Operations net of
related deferred income tax expense.
NOTE 6 - INCOME TAXES
The components of the income tax provision (benefit) are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
October 31
------------------------------------------
1997 1996 1995
------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Current:
Federal $ 121,000 $ 50,000 $ --
State -- -- --
------------ ------------ ------------
Total 121,000 50,000 --
Deferred 5,953,232 244,896 (300,460)
------------ ------------ ------------
Total $ 6,074,232 $ 294,896 $ (300,460)
============ ============ ============
</TABLE>
Approximately $5.3 million of the deferred income tax provision is shown net of
the extraordinary item - gain on fire on the Statement of Operations for the
year ended October 31, 1997.
For the fiscal years ended October 31, 1997 and 1996, 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.
47
<PAGE> 48
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended October 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
October 31
-------------------------------
1997 1996
------------ -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Current deferred tax assets:
General liability insurance
reserves $ 59,940 $ 59,940
Net operating loss carryforwards -- 251,000
------------ -----------
Total current deferred tax
assets 59,940 310,940
Current deferred tax
liabilities:
Deferred tax on gain from fire (264,846) --
------------ -----------
Net current deferred tax
assets (liabilities) $ (204,906) $ 310,940
============ ===========
Non-current deferred tax assets:
Book accumulated depreciation
in excess of tax $ 218,034 $ 392,241
------------ -----------
Total non-current deferred
tax assets 218,034 392,241
Non-current deferred tax
liabilities:
Deferred tax on gain from fire (10,064,138) (4,917,928)
------------ -----------
Net non-current deferred
tax liabilities $ (9,846,104) $(4,525,687)
============ ===========
Valuation allowance,
beginning of year $ -- $ 119,253
Change during the year -- (119,253)
------------ -----------
Valuation allowance,
end of year $ -- $ --
============ ===========
</TABLE>
48
<PAGE> 49
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended October 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
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 years ending October 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 is as
follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
October 31
------------------------------------------
1997 1996 1995
------------ ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Expected tax provision
(benefit) $ 5,388,132 $ 399,362 $ (276,276)
State income taxes 475,423 35,238 (24,377)
Change in valuation
allowance -- (119,253) 12,066
Additional realizable
carryback credits -- -- (81,609)
Additional realizable
carryforward net
operating losses -- -- (89,620)
Utilization of net
operating loss 251,000 -- --
Other (40,323) (20,451) 159,356
------------ ------------ ------------
Actual tax provision
(benefit) $ 6,074,232 $ 294,896 $ (300,460)
============ ============ ============
</TABLE>
As of October 31, 1996, the Company had a net operating loss carryforward of
approximately $678,000 which was utilized in fiscal 1997.
As of October 31, 1997, the Company has recorded a current and non-current
deferred tax liability totaling $10,328,984 as a result of the deferred gain on
the fire for income tax purposes. The Company has reinvested all fire insurance
and litigation proceeds into its new facilities within the allowable replacement
period, therefore deferring the gain on the involuntary conversion. As a result,
the Company has a difference between the book and tax bases of such facilities.
This taxable difference will reverse with the scheduled depreciation of such
assets over the next 39 years.
NOTE 7 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Fire Related Litigation
The Company has been 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:
49
<PAGE> 50
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended October 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
NOTE 7 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (CONTINUED)
Travelers Litigation
On May 14, 1994, the Company filed an action in the 24th Judicial 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 $24.2 million in excess of the $10
million of underlying coverage. Accordingly, the Company maintains that
Travelers is liable for the difference between $24.2 million and the
approximately $9.5 million already paid, plus statutory penalties of
10% of the amount not paid, interest, attorney's fees and costs. The
Company further contended the insurance agent and the insurance broker
who arranged for the insurance were liable to the Company for any
damages sustained including any damages sustained because the amount of
coverage is less than that claimed by the Company. Travelers' position
is that its liability under such policy is limited to the amount which
has already been paid.
In November 1996, the Company entered into a joint settlement with the
insurance agent and broker pursuant to which the insurance agent and
broker agreed to pay a total of $10,000,000 to the Company. Such amount
was placed in escrow until April 9, 1997, when the Company utilized
such funds in connection with the closing of its construction financing
described herein. The settlement agreement includes a "Mary Carter"
provision whereby the insurance agent and broker are entitled to share
in any recovery that the Company may eventually obtain from Travelers
in that litigation.
The Company's action against Travelers was tried in September 1997 and
the trial court has taken the matter under advisement.
ADT Litigation
In December 1994, the Company filed an action in the Civil District
Court for the Parish of Orleans, State of Louisiana against ADT
Security Systems, Mid-South, Inc. the company which provided and
maintained the fire alarm system at the race track, and other
defendants. The complaint sought unspecified damages, not otherwise
compensated for by insurance, that were allegedly caused by the
negligence of one or more of the defendants. The Company's three fire
insurers and a third party's insurance company, which insured the
operator of the video poker machines, intervened in the
50
<PAGE> 51
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended October 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
NOTE 7 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (CONTINUED)
suit asserting subrogation claims against the same defendants.
In late 1996, the Company and the three insurance companies entered
into settlements with certain defendants, specifically the manufacturer
of a lighting ballast and an architect. After division of the
settlement proceeds among the Company and the three insurance companies
and the payment of various litigation expenses, the Company received
approximately $268,000. The remainder of the case was tried in March
1997 and resulted in an award in favor of the Company and the
intervening insurance companies of approximately $49.8 million in the
aggregate in damages against ADT, plus interest. The Company was
awarded approximately $31.8 million plus interest. The judgment was
appealed by ADT. In June 1997, the insurance company that insured the
first layer of ADT's liability tendered approximately $9.3 million in
partial settlement of the action. In August 1997, after a dispute with
the intervening insurers over the division of these funds was resolved,
the Company received approximately $4 million after litigation
expenses. See Note 13 "Subsequent Events" for additional information
regarding this litigation.
Travelers, Royal, and the insurance company which insured the operator
of the video poker machines at the Fair Grounds Race Course filed an
action in April 1997 in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern
District of Louisiana against the Company, seeking a declaratory
judgment that a contract existed among the parties governing the
distribution of funds recovered in the litigation against ADT described
above. The Company denied that any such contract was ever executed, but
that if a contract was formed, it was breached in numerous respects by
the insurance companies. During 1997, the parties entered into a
partial settlement agreement pursuant to which they agreed, among other
things, that the matter would be heard in state court in April 1998.
The Company believes that the amount of funds held in escrow as a
result of the settlement in the ADT litigation described above will be
sufficient to fund any obligations of the Company which may arise in
connection with the foregoing litigation.
United National Litigation
The Company was a defendant, along with its general liability insurance
carrier, United National Insurance Company ("United National"), in a
civil action filed in December 1994 in the
51
<PAGE> 52
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended October 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
NOTE 7 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (CONTINUED)
United States District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana by
St. Paul Mercury Insurance Company ("St. Paul"), the insurer of the
computerized betting equipment at the race track. St. Paul alleged that
it was subrogated to its insured's rights to collect damages and that
it had paid approximately $1,175,000 to its insured for the loss of
equipment in the fire. Subsequently, United National filed a
declaratory judgment action against the Company, wherein it sought to
deny coverage for St. Paul's subrogation claim. The Company filed a
counterclaim against United National, seeking coverage for the St. Paul
claim as well as payment for various other fire-related claims
previously denied by United National. This action was consolidated for
trial with the suit filed by St. Paul against the Company.
Both United National and the Company moved for summary judgment on the
question of whether the exclusion relied on by United National to deny
coverage for the various claims applied or not. In 1996, the District
Court ruled that the policy exclusion relied upon by United National
did not apply to the claim asserted by St. Paul and to claims made by
various jockeys and valets that were previously paid by the Company.
United National subsequently appealed this decision to the United
States Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, which held that the claim was
covered.
In May 1997, the St. Paul suit was settled pursuant to an agreement
whereby ADT agreed to pay an undisclosed sum and United National, as
the Company's insurer, agreed to pay $275,000.
As to the pending matters described above, there can be no assurance that the
Company ultimately 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.
Other Litigation
In 1996, a suit was filed in U.S. District Court in Baton Rouge by Livingston
Downs Racing Association ("Livingston") naming the Company and other defendants
in an antitrust/civil RICO suit alleging the Company participated in a
conspiracy to prevent the plaintiff from entering the live racing, off-track
betting and video poker markets. This suit is currently in early discovery
stages. Management of the Company believes the action is without
52
<PAGE> 53
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended October 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
NOTE 7 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (CONTINUED)
merit. Livingston had previously filed a series of other legal actions against
the Company which were resolved in the Company's favor.
A suit was also filed in 1996 by Livingston against the Company and the State of
Louisiana seeking a judgment that the State off-track betting law is
unconstitutional. The trial court ruled in the plaintiffs' favor. The case was
appealed to the Louisiana Supreme Court which overturned the ruling on December
2, 1997. Livingston Downs has requested a rehearing which has not yet been ruled
upon. The Company believes it has no monetary exposure in this suit.
A suit was filed in 1996 by the Louisiana Horseman's Benevolent and Protective
Association ("HBPA") against the Company, the State of Louisiana, and all other
pari-mutuel wagering facilities operating in Louisiana. The HBPA is seeking a
larger portion of video poker proceeds. The Company believes it is currently in
compliance with the guidelines established by the Louisiana State Police Gaming
Division which regulates compliance with the State video poker law. The Company
believes it will prevail in this suit. The amounts in question in this suit have
not yet been calculated, but amounts could be substantial.
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.
NOTE 8 - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
In April 1996, Bryan G. Krantz, purchased 339,604 shares of the Company's stock
from a trust which had previously acquired the shares from Marie G. Krantz. A
promissory note was executed by Bryan G. Krantz in favor of the Trust for
$9,984,358 with interest at 5.76% per year. The note is due in April 2005 and
cannot be prepaid in whole or in part. The note is secured by a Stock Pledge
Agreement executed by Bryan G. Krantz and Marie G. Krantz, in her capacity as
Voting Trustee under a Voting Trust Agreement, in favor of the Trust. The Stock
Pledge Agreement is subordinate to the Pledge Agreements executed in favor of
FNBC relating to the construction financing.
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 Bryan G.
Krantz.
53
<PAGE> 54
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended October 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
NOTE 8 - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (CONTINUED)
Marie G. Krantz and Bryan G. Krantz together are the beneficial owners of 100%
of the outstanding shares of Jefferson Downs Corporation.
On October 31, 1996, Marie G. Krantz loaned the Company $1 million payable on
demand at the prime interest rate, which was 8.25% at October 31, 1996. Such
loan, together with interest, was repaid in January 1997.
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, 1997, 1996 and 1995, the Company received $82,655, $88,835, and
$67,593, respectively, from Finish Line in accordance with the Management
Agreement.
Accounts receivable (payable) from (or to) Finish Line were $124,324 and
$(88,227) at October 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively.
The following table reflects the host track fees and purse supplement receipts
from Finish Line for the fiscal years ended October 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Received by the Company
and Paid by Finish Line
for the Years Ended October 31
-----------------------------------------------------
1997 1996 1995
---------- ---------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Host track fees $ 325,680 $ 363,275 $ 520,267
========== ========== ==========
Purse supplement
receipts $4,822,405 $4,337,179 $3,861,674
========== ========== ==========
</TABLE>
54
<PAGE> 55
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended October 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
NOTE 8 - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (CONTINUED)
Marie G. Krantz and Bryan G. Krantz are each 50% owners of Continental
Advertising, Inc. ("Continental"). During the fiscal years ended October 31,
1997, 1996 and 1995, the Company made payments to Continental of $333,000,
$341,000, and $462,321, respectively, for advertising services rendered by
Continental. As of October 31, 1997 and 1996, the Company was due amounts
included in accounts receivable of $41,869 and $64,800 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, which option has been
exercised. 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 each of the fiscal years of 1997, 1996 and 1995, 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 video poker draw devices which have been installed and are to be installed
by VSI remain the property of VSI. As of October 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, there
were a total of 297, 234, and 250 devices, respectively, in operation at all of
the Company's facilities. In addition, there were a total of 428, 419, and 449
devices in operation at the Finish Line facilities as of October 31, 1997, 1996
and 1995, respectively.
55
<PAGE> 56
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended October 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
NOTE 8 - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (CONTINUED)
Gross video poker revenues and related purse supplements for the years ended
October 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995 are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1997 1996 1995
---------- ---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Gross video poker revenue $2,346,677 $1,955,551 $1,132,127
========== ========== ==========
Purse supplements $ 981,097 $ 821,973 $ 433,443
========== ========== ==========
</TABLE>
NOTE 9 - 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:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C> <C>
============================================= ============================= ===========================
Monthly
Location Lease Term Payment
- --------------------------------------------- ----------------------------- ---------------------------
St. Bernard Parish, January 1, 1995 to $ 6,000
Louisiana January 31, 1999
- --------------------------------------------- ----------------------------- ---------------------------
LaPlace, Louisiana February 1, 1996 to
January 31, 1997 $ 4,166
February 1, 1997 to
January 31, 1998 $ 4,291
February 1, 1998 to
January 31, 1999 $ 4,420
February 1, 1999 to
January 31, 2000 $ 4,553
- --------------------------------------------- ----------------------------- ---------------------------
Bourbon Street - March 15, 1991 to
New Orleans, March 14, 1999 $10,000
Louisiana
- --------------------------------------------- ----------------------------- ---------------------------
Thibodaux, May 1, 1996 to
Louisiana April 30, 1997 $ 2,300
May 1, 1997 to
April 30, 1998 $ 2,300
</TABLE>
56
<PAGE> 57
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended October 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
- --------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------------
Metairie, February 1, 1996 to
Louisiana January 31, 1997 $ 8,500
February 1, 1997 to
January 31, 1998 $ 9,000
February 1, 1998 to
January 31, 1999 $ 9,000
February 1, 1999 to
January 31, 2000 $ 9,500
February 1, 2000 to
January 31, 2001 $ 9,500
- --------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------ ---------------------------
</TABLE>
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 housed the executive, administrative, and operations personnel
and the totalisator equipment used by the Company. Due to the delay of
completion of the new facilities, the lease was extended month-to-month until
October 1997. Rent expense relating to this lease for the years ended October
31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 was approximately $72,000, $72,000, and $71,000,
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, 1997 are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ending
October 31
-----------
<S> <C>
1998 364,953
1999 243,396
2000 114,000
Thereafter 28,500
----------
Total $ 750,849
==========
</TABLE>
The Company was a party to an agreement with Autotote Limited whereby Autotote
Limited was 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 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
57
<PAGE> 58
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended October 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
NOTE 9 - LEASES (CONTINUED)
agreement was $200,000. No estimates of future obligations under this agreement
have been included in the above table. For the fiscal years ended October 31,
1997, 1996, and 1995, the Company incurred $200,000 in minimum rental fees and
$600,724, $575,390, and $503,175, 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. On November 21,
1997, the Company entered into a new agreement with Autotote Limited with
modification of terms as described in Note 13.
NOTE 10 - STOCK OPTIONS
The Company has a stock option plan whereby 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 has been reserved for issue and may be granted up to February 28, 2001.
No options were granted or exercised during fiscal years ended October 31, 1997,
1996 and 1995. No options were outstanding at October 31, 1997.
NOTE 11 - DEFINED CONTRIBUTION PLAN
During the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995, the Company implemented a 401(k)
plan for its employees. The Plan is a defined contribution plan covering all
full-time employees that have at least one year of service and are age
twenty-one or older.
Plan participants may contribute to the Plan and the Company may make matching
contributions subject to the provisions of the Employees Retirement Income
Security Act.
The Company did not make any matching contributions to the Plan during the years
ended October 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995.
NOTE 12 - LOCAL REFERENDUM ON GAMING DEVICES
In connection with the general elections held in Louisiana on November 5, 1996,
special elections were held in each parish in Louisiana to approve or
disapprove, on a parish-by-parish basis, video poker and other forms of gaming.
In such local elections, the voters in every parish in which the Company does
business, except one, approved of the operation of video poker devices. The
58
<PAGE> 59
FAIR GROUNDS CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Years Ended October 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
NOTE 12 - LOCAL REFERENDUM ON GAMING (CONTINUED)
one exception was St. Tammany Parish, where the Company, through its agreement
with Finish Line, maintains two facilities; however, the Company does not
believe that the loss of video poker revenue from such locations will have a
material adverse effect on the Company's operations. In addition,
notwithstanding the results of such local election in St. Tammany Parish, the
Company may continue to operate video poker devices in St. Tammany Parish for 30
months after the date of the local referendum.
NOTE 13 - SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
In December 1997, the Company entered into a settlement with ADT and its excess
coverage insurers, pursuant to which the Company was paid $37 million and agreed
to indemnify ADT and its insurers against the judgment creditor claims of the
intervening insurers. A substantial portion of the settlement funds has been
placed in escrow pending resolution of such insurer's claims.
Subsequent to October 31, 1997, the Company repaid its total outstanding loan
balance to FNBC with the additional proceeds from litigation settlements as
discussed herein.
On November 20, 1997, the Company received a reimbursement of $151,846 from an
insurance bond claim related to the August 1997 armed robbery of cash from the
Company's money room. Such amount was included in accounts receivable at October
31, 1997.
As previously discussed in Note 9, the Company entered into an new agreement
with Autotote Limited on November 21, 1997 whereby Autotote Limited is to
provide wagering services for the Company until November 20, 2002, including all
computer and other related services to carry out the totalisator function for
the Company. The Company has agreed to pay Autotote Limited 0.0039% of the total
pari-mutuel handle of the Company, plus fixed equipment rental fees for certain
equipment provided by Autotote. The minimum to be paid to Autotote during each
year of the agreement is $200,000.
59
<PAGE> 60
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
The information concerning Directors of the Company contained in the section
entitled "Election of Directors" in the Definitive Information Statement for the
1998 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be filed with the Commission on or about
February 25, 1998, is incorporated herein by reference in response to this item.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information contained in the sections entitled "Executive Compensation" and
"Information Regarding Board of Directors and Committees" in the Definitive
Information Statement for the 1998 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be filed
with the Commission on or about February 25, 1998 is incorporated herein by
reference in response to this item.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The information contained in the sections entitled "Beneficial Ownership of
Common Shares" in the Definitive Information Statement for the 1998 Annual
Meeting of Shareholders to be filed with the Commission on or about February 25,
1998 is incorporated herein by reference in response to this item.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
The information contained in the section entitled "Election of Directors" and
"Executive Compensation" in the Definitive Information Statement for the 1998
Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be filed with the Commission on or about
February 25, 1998 is incorporated herein by reference in response to this item.
60
<PAGE> 61
PART IV
ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a)(1) The following unaudited financial statements are included in Part II,
Item 8:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Financial Statements Page
- -------------------- ----
<S> <C>
Report of Independent Certified Public
Accountant 29
Balance Sheets, October 31, 1997 and 1996 30
Statements of Operations for the Three Years
Ended October 31, 1997 32
Statements of Changes in Stockholder's
Equity for the Three Years Ended
October 31, 1997 36
Statements of Cash Flows for the Three
Years Ended October 31, 1997 37
Notes to Financial Statements 40
</TABLE>
(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.
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
(3)(a) *
Articles of Incorporation of Fair Grounds Corporation, as
amended (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).
</TABLE>
61
<PAGE> 62
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
(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) 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
</TABLE>
62
<PAGE> 63
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
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 $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).
</TABLE>
63
<PAGE> 64
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
(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 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.)
</TABLE>
64
<PAGE> 65
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
(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 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
(Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(u) to the Form
10-K of the Company for the fiscal year ended October 31,
1995, filed on February 16, 1996).
(10)(v) *
Disbursement Agreement dated as of July 17, 1995 by and among
Fair Grounds Corporation, Video Services, Inc. and First
National Bank of Commerce (Incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibit 10(v) to the Form 10-K of the Company for the fiscal
year ended October 31, 1995, filed on February 16, 1996).
(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 to Exhibit 10(w) to
the Form 10-K of the Company for the fiscal year ended October
31, 1995, filed on February 16, 1996).
(27)
Financial Data Schedule (for SEC use only).
</TABLE>
* Incorporated herein by reference as indicated.
65
<PAGE> 66
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 25, 1998 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.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name Capacity Date
- ---------------------------------- --------------------- ------------------
<S> <C> <C>
PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER:
/s/ Bryan G. Krantz
- ----------------------------------
Bryan G. Krantz President February 25, 1998
PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER AND
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING OFFICER:
/s/ Gordon M. Robertson
- ----------------------------------
Gordon M. Robertson Vice President and
Chief Financial February 25, 1998
Officer
</TABLE>
66
<PAGE> 67
DIRECTORS:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
/s/ Katherine F. Duncan
- ----------------------------------
Katherine F. Duncan Director February 25, 1998
/s/ Richard Katcher
- ----------------------------------
Richard Katcher Director February 25, 1998
/s/ Marie G. Krantz
- ----------------------------------
Marie G. Krantz Director February 25, 1998
and Chairman
of the Board
/s/ Bryan G. Krantz
- ----------------------------------
Bryan G. Krantz Director February 25, 1998
and President
/s/ Ronald J. Maestri
- ----------------------------------
Ronald J. Maestri Director February 25, 1998
/s/ Charmaine R. Morel
- ----------------------------------
Charmaine R. Morel Director February 25, 1998
/s/ Wayne E. Thomas
- ----------------------------------
Wayne E. Thomas Director February 25, 1998
</TABLE>
67
<PAGE> 68
EXHIBIT INDEX
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Exhibit Description Page
- ------- ----------- -----
<S> <C> <C>
(3)(a) *
Articles of Incorporation of Fair Grounds Corporation, as
amended (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).
</TABLE>
68
<PAGE> 69
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
(10)(d) *
Agreement dated November 3, 1989, between Fair Grounds
Corporation and Jefferson Downs, Inc. (incorporated herein
by reference to Exhibit (10)(d) 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).
</TABLE>
69
<PAGE> 70
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
(10)(j) *
Promissory Note dated December 27, 1990, in the principal
amount of $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 year ended October 31,
1992, filed on February 15, 1993.)
</TABLE>
70
<PAGE> 71
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
(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 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
(Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10(u) to the Form
10-K of
</TABLE>
71
<PAGE> 72
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
the Company for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995, filed
on February 16, 1996).
(10)(v) *
Disbursement Agreement dated as of July 17, 1995 by and among
Fair Grounds Corporation, Video Services, Inc. and First
National Bank of Commerce (Incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibit 10(v) to the Form 10-K of the Company for the fiscal
year ended October 31, 1995, filed on February 16, 1996).
(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 to Exhibit 10(w) to
the Form 10-K of the Company for the fiscal year ended October
31, 1995, filed on February 16, 1996).
(27)
Financial Data Schedule (for SEC use only).
</TABLE>
* Incorporated herein by reference as indicated.
72
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 5
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> OCT-31-1997
<PERIOD-START> NOV-01-1996
<PERIOD-END> OCT-31-1997
<CASH> 5,193
<SECURITIES> 593
<RECEIVABLES> 1,349
<ALLOWANCES> 0
<INVENTORY> 95
<CURRENT-ASSETS> 10,265
<PP&E> 48,470
<DEPRECIATION> 14,058
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 48,090
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES> 16,566
<BONDS> 0
0
0
<COMMON> 1,525
<OTHER-SE> 21,678
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 48,090
<SALES> 21,718
<TOTAL-REVENUES> 30,980
<CGS> 0
<TOTAL-COSTS> 28,099
<OTHER-EXPENSES> 4,103
<LOSS-PROVISION> 0
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 266
<INCOME-PRETAX> 1,526
<INCOME-TAX> 775
<INCOME-CONTINUING> 751
<DISCONTINUED> 0
<EXTRAORDINARY> 9,023
<CHANGES> 0
<NET-INCOME> 9,773
<EPS-PRIMARY> 20.80
<EPS-DILUTED> 20.80
</TABLE>
