As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 18, 1996
Registration No.
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
----------------------
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
on
FORM S-3
Under
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
--------------------
MTR GAMING GROUP, INC.
(Exact name of Company as Specified in its Charter)
Delaware 7993 84-1103135
----------------------- ---------- ------------
(State or other jurisdiction (Primary (I.R.S. Employer
of incorporation or organi- SIC Code Identification
zation) Number) Number)
1461 Glenneyre Street, Suite F
Laguna Beach, California 92651
(714) 376-3010
(Address, including zip code, and telephone number,
including area code, of registrant's principal executive offices)
Edson R. Arneault
MTR GAMING GROUP, INC.
1461 Glenneyre Street, Suite F
Laguna Beach, California 92651
(714) 376-3010
(Name, Address, including zip code, and telephone number,
including area code, of agent for service)
With copies to:
Kevin T. Collins, Esq.
Kenneth Zuckerbrot, Esq.
Ross & Hardies
65 East 55th Street
New York, New York 10022
<PAGE>
Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale to public: As soon as
practicable after this registration statement becomes effective.
If any of the securities being registered on this form are to be
offered on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the
Securities Act of 1933, check the following box. [X]
If this form is filed to register additional securities for an offering
pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, please check the following box
and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier
effective registration statement for the same offering. [ ]
If this form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule
462(b) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities
Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration
statement for the same offering.
[ ]
If delivery of the prospectus is expected to be made pursuant to
Rule 434, please check the following box. [ ]
The Company hereby amends this Registration Statement on such
date or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the Company
shall file a further amendment which specifically states that this Registration
Statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of
the Securities Act of 1933 or until the Registration Statement shall become
effective on such date as the Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a),
may determine.
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE
Title of each Proposed
class of maximum Amount of
securities to Amount to be offering price Aggregate registration
be registered registered per unit offering price fee
- ------------- ------------ -------------- -------------- ---
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Shares of 3,274,721 $1.390625 per $4,553,909 $1,571
Common Stock, Shares Share
par value
$.00001
per share (1)
Shares of 1,719,119 $1.390625 per $2,390,650 $825
Common Stock, Shares Share
par value
$.00001
per share (2)
Totals $2,396
</TABLE>
(1) To be offered and sold by Selling Stockholders (as defined herein);
registration fee calculated pursuant to Rule 457(c) based on the
average of the high bid and low ask price for the Common Stock of the
Company on October 14, 1996.
(2) To be offered and sold by Selling Stockholders upon the issuance of
Common Stock pursuant to the exercise of certain Warrants and Options
(as defined herein). In accordance with Rule 457(c) the price used for
calculating the registration fee is the average of the high bid and low
ask price for the Common Stock of the Company on October 14, 1996.
<PAGE>
SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED OCTOBER 18, 1996.
Information contained herein is subject to completion or amendment. A
registration statement relating to these securities has been filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission. These securities may not be sold nor may
offers to buy be accepted prior to the time the registration statement becomes
effective. This prospectus shall not constitute an offer to sell or the
solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of these securities
in any state in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior
to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state.
PROSPECTUS
MTR GAMING GROUP, INC.
4,993,840 shares of Common Stock, par value $.00001 per share
The registration statement (the "Registration Statement"), of which
this Prospectus forms a part, registers the offer and sale by certain
stockholders (the "Selling Stockholders") of 4,993,840 shares of Common Stock,
par value $.00001 per share (the "Common Stock") of MTR Gaming Group, Inc.
("MTR" or the "Company"), formerly known as Winners Entertainment, Inc. Of the
4,993,840 shares of Common Stock registered herein, (i) 3,274,721 shares are
outstanding and held by the Selling Stockholders; (ii) 840,869 shares are
issuable upon the exercise of certain options (the "Options") to purchase Common
Stock held by the Selling Stockholders; and (iii) 878,250 shares are issuable
upon the exercise of certain warrants (the "Warrants") to purchase Common Stock
held by the Selling Stockholders. The Selling Stockholders acquired the
outstanding shares of Common Stock offered hereby and the Options and Warrants
directly from the Company in connection with various private issuances of Common
Stock, Options and Warrants. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Capital Resources"
and "Selling Stockholders." The Company will not receive any of the proceeds
from the sale of the shares of Common Stock by the Selling Stockholders. To the
extent any of the Options or Warrants are exercised, the Company will use the
proceeds thereof for its working capital purposes. See "Use of Proceeds."
The Common Stock is quoted on the NASDAQ SmallCap Market. On October
14, 1996 the high bid and low asked quotations of the Common Stock were $1 5/32
and $1 7/32, respectively.
The Selling Stockholders may sell the securities registered herein from
time to time in transactions in the open market (including any securities
exchange or through any inter-dealer
<PAGE>
quotation system), in negotiated transactions, or by a combination of these
methods, at fixed prices that may be changed, at market prices at the time of
sale, at prices related to market prices or at negotiated prices. The Selling
Stockholders may effect these transactions directly with the purchasers by
selling the securities registered herein to or through underwriters, agents, or
broker-dealers, in each case who may receive compensation in the form of
discounts or commissions from the Selling Stockholders or otherwise from the
purchasers of such securities for whom the underwriters, agents or
broker-dealers may act as agent or to whom they may sell as principal, or both.
See "Plan of Distribution."
The Company will bear all of the expenses in connection with the
registration of the Common Stock offered hereby, which expenses are estimated to
be $32,798. The Selling Stockholders will pay any brokerage compensation in
connection with their sale of the Common Stock registered herein.
AN INVESTMENT IN THE SECURITIES OFFERED HEREBY INVOLVES A HIGH DEGREE OF RISK.
SEE "RISK FACTORS" WHICH COMMENCES ON PAGE 7 OF THIS PROSPECTUS.
THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR HAS THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION PASSED UPON
THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY
IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
The date of this Prospectus is October __, 1996.
- ii -
<PAGE>
AVAILABLE INFORMATION
The Company is subject to the informational requirements of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (the "Exchange Act") and, in
accordance therewith, files reports, proxy statements and other information with
the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission"). Such reports, proxy
and other information statements filed by the Company can be inspected and
copied at the public reference facilities maintained by the Commission at 450
Fifth Street, N.W., Room 1024, Washington, D.C. 20549, and at its regional
offices located at Seven World Trade Center, Suite 1300, New York, New York
10048, and Northwestern Atrium Center, 500 West Madison Street, Suite 1400,
Chicago, Illinois 60661-2511; and copies of such material can be obtained from
the Public Reference Section of the Commission in Washington, D.C., at
prescribed rates.
The Company has filed a registration statement on Form S-3 (the
"Registration Statement") with the Commission pursuant to the Securities Act of
1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), with respect to the securities offered
hereby. This Prospectus (the "Prospectus") does not contain all of the
information set forth in the Registration Statement and the exhibits and
schedules thereto. For further information with respect to the Company and the
securities offered hereby, reference is hereby made to the Registration
Statement, and exhibits and schedules thereto.
No dealer, salesman or any other person has been authorized to give any
information or to make any representation other than those contained in this
Prospectus in connection with the offering herein contained and, if given or
made, such information or representation must not be relied upon as having been
authorized by the Company. Neither the delivery of this Prospectus nor any sale
made hereunder shall, under any circumstances, create any implication that there
has been no change in the facts herein set forth since the date hereof.
INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE
The Company hereby incorporates by reference into this Prospectus (i)
its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 1995 which
contains certified financial statements for the Company's latest fiscal year for
which a Form 10-K was required to have been filed with the Commission, (ii) all
other reports filed by the Company with the Commission pursuant to Section 13(a)
or 15(d) of the Exchange Act since December 31, 1995, including but not limited
to, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for each of the Quarters Ended March 31, 1996
and June 30, 1996 and (iii) the description of the Company's Common Stock,
$.00001 par value per share, as contained in its registration statement on Form
8-A, filed with the Commission on August 2, 1992.
- iii -
<PAGE>
All documents filed by the Company pursuant to Sections 13(a), 13(c),
14 and 15(d) of the Exchange Act, subsequent to the date hereof and prior to the
filing of a post-effective amendment to the Registration Statement which
indicates that all of the securities offered hereby have been sold or which
deregisters all such securities then remaining unsold, shall be deemed to be
incorporated by reference into this Prospectus and to be a part hereof from the
date of filing of such documents.
Any statement contained herein or in a document incorporated or deemed
to be incorporated by reference herein shall be deemed to be modified or
superseded for purposes of this Prospectus to the extent that such statement is
modified or superseded by a statement contained herein or in a subsequently
filed document which also is or is deemed to be incorporated by reference
herein. Any such statement so modified or superseded shall not be deemed, except
as so modified or superseded, to constitute a part of this Prospectus.
The Company will provide, without charge, to each person (including any
beneficial owner) to whom this Prospectus is delivered, upon written or oral
request of such person, a copy of any and all of the information that has been
incorporated by reference in this Prospectus (not including exhibits to such
information unless such exhibits are specifically incorporated by reference into
such information). Such requests should be directed to Edson R. Arneault, MTR
Gaming Group, Inc., State Route 2, Chester, West Virginia 26034 tel.
304-387-2400.
- iv -
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
PROSPECTUS SUMMARY........................................................1
RISK FACTORS..............................................................7
USE OF PROCEEDS..........................................................14
DIVIDEND POLICY..........................................................15
CAPITALIZATION...........................................................15
PRICE RANGE OF COMMON STOCK..............................................16
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA..................................................17
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS..........................19
BUSINESS ................................................................40
MANAGEMENT...............................................................63
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION...................................................65
CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS.....................................................70
PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS...................................................74
SELLING STOCKHOLDERS.....................................................76
PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION.....................................................79
DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES................................................80
SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE..........................................84
DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN INDEBTEDNESS......................................90
LEGAL MATTERS............................................................93
EXPERTS..................................................................93
INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS...........................................F-1
- v -
<PAGE>
PROSPECTUS SUMMARY
The following is a summary of certain information contained in the body
of this Prospectus and should be read in conjunction with the detailed
information and financial statements appearing elsewhere herein.
THE COMPANY
The Company, through wholly-owned subsidiaries, owns and operates
Mountaineer Race Track and Gaming Resort ("Mountaineer Park"), a resort facility
in Chester, West Virginia, and owns a working interest in proven oil and gas
reserves in Michigan.
The Company was incorporated in March 1988 in Delaware under the name
"Secamur Corporation," a wholly owned subsidiary of Buffalo Equities, Inc.,
("Buffalo") and later "spun-off" through the sale of its stock to the
stockholders of Buffalo in January 1989. In June 1989, the Company acquired
through merger, Pacific International Industries, Inc., which had been engaged
in the contract security guard services business in Southern California since
its inception in February 1987. Upon completion of the merger, the Company was
renamed Excalibur Security Services, Inc., to reflect its new line of business.
After operating unprofitably, the Company filed a voluntary petition for
reorganization with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Central District of
California in December 1990, and became a Chapter 11 debtor-in-possession. The
Bankruptcy Court approved the Company's sale of its security guard services
business in May 1991, and confirmed the Company's plan of reorganization in
December 1991. The plan authorized the Company to acquire, primarily, specified
gaming and oil and gas businesses. Upon confirmation of the plan, the Company
changed its name to Excalibur Holding Corporation. In connection with
management's decision to operate as a gaming company, the Company was renamed
Winners Entertainment, Inc. in August 1993. At the annual meeting of
stockholders on October 15, 1996, the stockholders of the Company approved a
change of the Company's name from Winners Entertainment, Inc. to MTR Gaming
Group, Inc.
Mountaineer Race Track & Gaming Resort - Chester, West
Virginia
Pursuant to a stock purchase agreement dated May 5, 1992, the Company
acquired all of the common stock of Mountaineer Park, Inc. ("Mountaineer"), a
West Virginia corporation, in December 1992. Mountaineer Park, the site of the
Company's gaming business, offers an entertainment complex and destination
resort with hotel, dining and lounge facilities, and outdoor activities
including golf, swimming and tennis. Mountaineer Park is situated on a 606-acre
site on the Ohio River at the northern tip of West Virginia's northwestern
panhandle in Hancock County, approximately 40 miles south of Youngstown, Ohio
and 35 miles west of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
<PAGE>
Racetrack Facilities
Mountaineer Park offers live horse racing before clubhouse and
grandstand viewing areas with enclosed seating for year-round racing. The track
also conducts simulcast (closed circuit television) thoroughbred horse and
greyhound dog racing from other prominent racetracks. Mountaineer Park's main
racetrack consists of an oval dirt track approximately one mile in length.
Inside the main track is a natural turf (grass) track measuring seven furlongs
or 7/8 of a mile. The racetrack is equipped with two chutes for races of lengths
from 4 1/2 furlongs to over one mile. The racetrack buildings consist of the
clubhouse and grandstand which provide glass-enclosed stadium and box seating
for approximately 770 and 2,850 patrons, respectively. The buildings are each
three- stories and are connected by an enclosed walkway. Live and simulcast
racing can be viewed by approximately 1,200 dining patrons in two restaurants
located in the clubhouse and grandstand. In addition to seating areas, the
grandstand covers approximately 57,000 square feet of interior space on the main
and mezzanine levels containing 42 parimutuel windows, and four food and
beverage concession stands. The clubhouse covers approximately 25,000 square
feet of interior space containing 22 parimutuel windows. The grandstand has an
indoor stage with a seating capacity of approximately 2,240, and has been the
site of several nationally televised boxing matches. The racetrack apron, which
is accessible from both buildings, provides racing fans with up-close viewing of
horses entering the racetrack and crossing the finish line. The stable area
accommodates approximately 1,250 horses and is located adjacent to the main
track. Mountaineer's racetrack parking lots have a combined capacity for over
2,900 vehicles.
Lodge Facilities
The Mountaineer Lodge (the "Lodge") is a two-story facility which
overlooks the par three, nine hole "executive" golf course near Mountaineer
Park's main entrance on West Virginia State Route 2. The Lodge offers 101 rooms,
including 50 standard rooms (one double bed), 46 superior rooms (two double
beds), and five king rooms and suites. The Mountaineer Lodge Dining Room seats
125 patrons for casual dining overlooking the golf course and an additional 68
persons may be seated on an outside deck, weather permitting. In 1995, in
response to increased patronage of the off-track betting, video lottery gaming,
dining and bar facilities located at the Lodge, the Company expanded its 5,000
square foot Speakeasy Gaming Saloon with an 8,000 square foot addition. The
capacity of the Speakeasy Gaming Saloon now stands at 750. Extensive off-track
wagering facilities continue to be maintained at the Speakeasy Gaming Saloon.
The Lodge parking lots have a combined capacity for approximately 370 vehicles.
- 2 -
<PAGE>
Video Lottery Facilities
In addition to live and simulcast parimutuel wagering, Mountaineer Park
offers video lottery gaming through 800 leased video lottery terminals ("VLTs")
located in the racetrack clubhouse, and grandstand and Lodge. Mountaineer
introduced 400 new state-of-the-art VLTs in September 1994, replacing 165 older
machines operated by the Company since December 1992, and subsequently placed an
additional 400 VLTs into operation in June 1995. The racetrack houses 400 of the
VLTs in its Riverside Gaming Terrace on the second floors of the clubhouse and
grandstand, and the Lodge offers the remaining 400 VLTs in the Speakeasy Gaming
Saloon, Derby Room and Iron Horse Lounge. Unlike the replaced machines, each of
the new VLTs allows a player to select from several game themes, including up to
four versions of draw poker, one version of blackjack and two versions of keno.
On July 3, 1996, the Company installed slot games on the first 350 of
its 800 VLTs. In October 1996, the Company installed slot games on an additional
50 VLTs bringing the total number of VLTs with slot games to 400. The new games,
which were authorized by West Virginia's state lottery laws for the first time
in June 1996, include Double Diamond, a classic casino slot game with cherries,
bars and items that "spin" on video reels, and the internationally popular Black
Rhino game. These new games are offered in addition to blackjack, poker and
keno. Management intends to install 200 additional VLTs with slot games within
the next year, and replace older VLTs that cannot accommodate the new games as
leases lapse, subject, to evidence that the Company's current VLTs are utilized
to full capacity, so that by the end of fiscal year 1997, Mountaineer expects to
operate 1,000 VLTs with slot games.
Recreational Facilities
Mountaineer Park has a par three, nine-hole "executive" golf course,
three tennis courts, a volleyball court, a basketball court, two swimming pools
and two children's swimming pools. These facilities are made available for use
by Lodge guests and the general public at specified daily or seasonal rates.
Trailer Park
The Company maintains a trailer park consisting of 61 individual lots
on approximately 11.5 acres located across West Virginia State Route 2 from the
Lodge and the entrance to Mountaineer Park. The lots are rented for fixed
monthly fees, mostly to individuals who are employed by Mountaineer in racing
operations. The Company is responsible for maintenance of the road and grounds,
refuse removal and providing water and sewage hookups. The tenants pay all
utility expenses.
- 3 -
<PAGE>
Undeveloped Land
Mountaineer owns, as part of its 606 acre site, a 375 acre tract that
is currently undeveloped. The acreage is located directly across West Virginia
State Route 2 from the Lodge and racetrack main entrance. Management has no
current plans to develop such property.
Recent Developments
At the annual meeting of stockholders on October 15, 1996, the
stockholders approved (i) an amendment to the Company's Restated Certificate of
Incorporation (the "Certificate") to change the Company's name to "MTR Gaming
Group, Inc.," and (ii) an amendment to the Company's Certificate to increase the
number of authorized shares of Common Stock from 25 million to 50 million. The
Company has filed an amended Certificate with the Secretary of State of Delaware
to reflect these changes.
On July 2, 1996, Mountaineer, entered into a financing arrangement with
a private lender for a secured working capital loan pursuant to the Term Loan
Agreement (the "Term Loan") and a commitment for first mortgage refinancing (the
"Loan Commitment"). The $5 million loan is secured by a second mortgage on all
of Mountaineer's real and personal property and is guaranteed by the Company.
The note evidencing the loan calls for monthly payments of interest only at the
rate of 12% per annum, and a default rate of 22% per annum. As additional
consideration for the note, the Company agreed to issue the lender 183,206
shares of Common Stock and five-year warrants to purchase an additional
1,142,860 shares of Common Stock at $1.06 per share. The warrants are
exercisable for a period of five (5) years from the date of the loan agreement.
Five-year warrants to purchase an additional 50,000 shares of Common Stock in
the aggregate at an exercise price of $.80 per share were issued by the Company
to two affiliates of the lender. Except with respect to the exercise price, all
of the warrants are identical. See "Management's Discussion of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Capital Resources," and
"Description of Certain Indebtedness." The principal of the Term Loan is to be
repaid at the end of a three year term, during which period the Term Loan is
subject to, on each anniversary date, additional fees in cash equal to 8% of the
outstanding principal balance, stock equal to 5% of the outstanding principal
balance (valued at the average closing bid price for the 30 days prior to each
anniversary date), and additional warrants to purchase an aggregate of 250,000
shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $1.06 per share. The shares of
Common Stock and warrants which have been issued to the lender and its
affiliates and the shares of Common Stock underlying such warrants are covered
by another registration statement which the Company has filed with the
Commission. The shares of Common Stock and warrants issuable to the lender in
connection with the Term Loan Agreement in the future
- 4 -
<PAGE>
will be the subject of future registration statements. In addition to the fees,
certain restrictions are imposed under the Term Loan Agreement limiting the
Company's ability to incur additional debt, make capital expenditures and
increase management's compensation. The warrant certificates provide for
adjustment to the exercise price of, and number of shares of Common Stock
issuable pursuant to, the warrants in the event the Company issues additional
securities at a price below the exercise price of the warrants.
In connection with the Term Loan, the lender also provided a one year
Loan Commitment to lend Mountaineer up to $11.1 million of additional funds to
be used to refinance the current first mortgage held by Bennett Management &
Development Corp. ("Bennett"). The Loan Commitment is subject to customary
conditions, including negotiation of definitive loan agreements, but provides
that any refinancing would be on terms no less favorable than those of the
Company's obligation to Bennett. In connection with the Loan Commitment, the
Company paid a $110,000 commitment fee and issued the lender additional warrants
to purchase 350,000 shares of Common Stock at the exercise price of $1.06. These
warrants and the shares of Common Stock underlying such warrants are covered by
another registration statement which the Company has filed with the Commission.
In order to assure compliance with provisions of the West Virginia
Racetrack Video Lottery Act (the "Lottery Act") concerning control over a
licensee of the West Virginia Lottery Commission (the "Lottery Commission"), the
lender has agreed that it may not own, through the exercise of warrants or
otherwise, more than 5% of the Company's outstanding Common Stock unless and
until the Commission either (i) approves the lender or (ii) provides an advisory
opinion approving an arrangement whereby the lender may own but may not have
voting rights to any shares of Common Stock in excess of the 5% threshold. If
the lender becomes disqualified after such Lottery Commission approval, any
shares held in excess of the 5% threshold, if registered, shall be sold by the
lender; otherwise such shares may be put to the Company for repurchase by the
Company at the then current market price, payable in cash or a note with
interest payable monthly at 24% per annum with all principal due in one year.
The Company filed a registration statement for the Common Stock and
warrants currently held by the lender. Certain cash penalties may be assessed if
such registration statement is not declared effective prior to February 2, 1997.
Net proceeds to the Company after repayment of a $250,000 loan from an
affiliate of the lender, legal fees, loan origination fees, fees associated with
the Loan Commitment and the costs of the transaction were approximately $4.2
million. The loan proceeds will be used by the Company to retire a substantial
portion of its accounts payable, to make future site improvements and decorate
the
- 5 -
<PAGE>
Speakeasy Gaming Saloon at Mountaineer Park. The loan proceeds will also be used
for television and print advertising campaigns in the Pittsburgh and Cleveland
markets.
MTR, a Delaware corporation, was incorporated in 1988. The Company's
executive offices are located at 1461 Glenneyre Street, Suite F, Laguna Beach,
California 92651, Telephone: (714) 376-3010.
The Offering
Securities Offered......... This Prospectus relates to an
offering by the Selling Stockholders
of 4,993,840 shares of Common Stock
consisting of (i) 840,869 shares of
Common Stock issuable upon exercise
of the Options; (ii) 878,250 shares
issuable upon exercise of the
Warrants; and (iii) 3,274,721 shares
of outstanding Common Stock which
are currently outstanding and held
by the Selling Stockholders. The
Options, Warrants and the
outstanding shares of Common Stock
were issued to the Selling
Stockholders in private transactions
which the Company has engaged in
from time to time with various of
the Selling Stockholders. See
"Selling Stockholders."
Securities Outstanding..... As of September 13, 1996, the
Company had 18,869,397 shares of
Common Stock outstanding. Assuming
that all of the Options and Warrants
are exercised and no other shares of
Common Stock are issued subsequent
to September 13, 1996, the Company
would have 20,588,516 shares of
Common Stock outstanding.
Use of Proceeds............ The Company will not receive any
proceeds from the sale of the shares
of Common Stock offered by the
Selling Stockholders. If all of the
Options and Warrants are exercised,
the Company will receive estimated
additional net proceeds of
$3,685,767. The Company intends to
utilize any proceeds received from
the exercise of the Options and
- 6 -
<PAGE>
Warrants as working capital. There
can be no assurance that any of the
Options or Warrants will be
exercised. See "Use of Proceeds."
Risk Factors............... See "Risk Factors" for a discussion
of certain risk factors that should
be considered by prospective
investors in connection with an
investment in the securities offered
hereby.
RISK FACTORS
The securities offered hereby are speculative and involve a high degree
of risk. They should not be purchased by anyone who cannot afford the loss of
his or her entire investment. In analyzing this offering, prospective investors
should consider the following risk factors, as well as other information
contained in this Prospectus before making an investment in such securities.
Information contained in this Prospectus contains "forward-looking statements"
which can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as
"believes," "expects," "may," "will," "should," or "anticipates" or the negative
thereof or other variations thereon or comparable terminology, or by discussions
of strategy. No assurance can be given that the future results covered by the
forward-looking statements will be achieved. The following matters constitute
cautionary statements identifying important factors with respect to such
forward-looking statements, including certain risks and uncertainties, that
could cause actual results to vary materially from the future results indicated
in such forward- looking statements. Other factors could also cause actual
results to vary materially from the future results indicated in such
forward-looking statements.
Historical and Anticipated Future Losses; Working Capital Deficit. The
Company has incurred substantial losses in 1995, 1994 and 1993 and as of June
30, 1996, the Company had current liabilities in excess of current assets of
$8.4 million. As of June 30, 1996, the Company had an accumulated deficit of
$26.2 million. Additionally, the Company's independent accountants expressed
concerns that these factors raised substantial doubt regarding the Company's
ability to continue as a going concern in connection with their audit of the
Company's 1995 consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended
December 31, 1995. For the six months ended June 30, 1996, the Company had
narrowed its loss to $115,000 from $2.6 million for the comparable period in
1995. There can be no assurance, however, that the Company will achieve positive
cash flow from operations in the future or that the Company will have sufficient
working capital to service its obligations as they become due.
- 7 -
<PAGE>
Leverage and Debt Service. The Company has significant interest expense
and principal repayment obligations under its long term indebtedness, including
the Term Loan pursuant to the Term Loan Agreement. At June 30, 1996, after
giving effect to the Term Loan and the application of the net proceeds
therefrom, the Company's pro forma total consolidated long-term debt (excluding
the current portion of long term debt of $3.7 million) would have been
approximately $11.3 million, consisting of $9.1 million outstanding under the
Company's first mortgage loan (the "Bennett Loan") from Bennett, $5 million
outstanding under the Term Loan and approximately $457,000 of other long-term
debt. The Bennett Loan is secured by a first mortgage on Mountaineer's real and
personal assets and bears interest at the rate of 12.5% per year with a
delinquency rate of 14.5% and is guaranteed by the Company. The Bennett Loan
requires the Company to make 36 monthly payments of principal and interest based
on a 36 month amortization schedule and contains no prepayment penalties. The
Company recently negotiated an Amendment to the Bennett Loan, which has not yet
become effective. The Term Loan is secured by a second mortgage on Mountaineer's
real and personal property and is guaranteed by the Company. The note evidencing
the Term Loan calls for monthly payments of interest only at the rate of 12% per
year, and bears a default rate of 22% per year. The principal of the Term Loan
must be repaid at the end of the three year term, during which period, the loan
is subject, on each anniversary date, to additional fees of cash equal to 8% of
the outstanding principal balance, stock equal to 5% of the outstanding
principal balance multiplied by the average daily closing price on each business
day for the 30 days prior to the third day before the anniversary date, and
warrants to purchase 250,000 shares at $1.06 per share. See "Selected Financial
Data", "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results
of Operations -- Liquidity and Capital Resources" and "Description of Certain
Indebtedness."
The Company's ability to service its debt will be dependent on its
future performance, which will be affected by prevailing economic conditions and
financial, business, regulatory and other factors, many of which are beyond the
Company's control. Accordingly, no assurance can be given that the Company will
maintain a level of operating cash flow that will permit it to service its
obligations and to satisfy the financial covenants in its loan agreements. If
the Company is unable to generate sufficient cash flow or is unable to refinance
or extend its outstanding indebtedness, it will have to adopt one or more
alternatives, such as reducing or delaying future expansion and capital
expenditures, selling assets, restructuring debt or obtaining additional equity
capital. There is no assurance that any of these strategies could be effected on
satisfactory terms to the Company, if at all. Moreover, the terms and financial
covenants contained in certain of the Company's debt instruments may restrict
the Company's ability to compete effectively in the gaming market by effectively
preventing expansion of the Company's
- 8 -
<PAGE>
facilities or other competitively advantageous capital expenditures, which may
have an adverse effect on the Company. See "Selected Financial Data --
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations -- Liquidity and Capital Resources."
Gaming Regulation. The Company's business is highly regulated. The
ability of the Company to remain in business, and to operate profitability
depends upon the Company's continued ability to satisfy all applicable gaming
laws and regulations.
The Company's horse racing operations are subject to extensive
regulation by the West Virginia Racing Commission (the "Racing Commission"),
which is responsible for, among other things, granting annual licenses to
conduct race meets, approving simulcasting post times, and other matters. When
granting licenses, the Racing Commission has the authority to determine the
dates on which Mountaineer may conduct races. In order to conduct simulcast
racing, Mountaineer is required under West Virginia law to hold a minimum of 220
live race days each year. The Racing Commission granted Mountaineer a license to
conduct a minimum of 220 live race days for its 1996 year.
The operation of video lottery games in West Virginia is subject to the
Lottery Act. Licensing and regulatory control is provided by the West Virginia
Lottery Commission (the "Lottery Commission.") The Lottery Act provides that
only licensed horse race or dog race facilities may offer video gaming.
Accordingly, the ability of the Company to maintain its video lottery business
requires it to comply fully with the Racing Commission to qualify for its
license under the Lottery Act.
The Lottery Act regulates the ability of horse race or dog race
facilities to offer video gaming. Under the Lottery Act, only parimutuel horse
or dog racing facilities that were licensed by the Racing Commission prior to
January 1, 1994 and that conduct at least 220 live racing dates for each dog or
horse race meeting, or such other number as may be approved by the Racing
Commission, are eligible for licensure to operate video lottery games. There are
four racing facilities in West Virginia (two horse racing and two dog racing)
including Mountaineer Park, three of which currently satisfy the eligibility
requirements of the Lottery Act, and are thus eligible to offer video lottery
gaming in the state. To provide video lottery gaming, the voters of the county
in which the facility is to be located must approve such gaming in advance. If
such approval is obtained, the facility may continue to conduct video lottery
gaming activities unless the matter is resubmitted to the voters pursuant to a
petition signed by at least five percent of the registered voters in the county,
who must wait at least five years subsequent to voter approval to bring such a
petition. If approval is denied, another vote on the issue may not be held for
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<PAGE>
a period of two years. Video lottery gaming was approved in Hancock County, the
location of Mountaineer Park, on May 10, 1994.
Licenses granted by the Lottery Commission must be renewed by July 1 of
each year. A license to operate video lottery games is a privilege personal to
the license holder and, accordingly, is non-transferable. In order for a license
to remain in effect, Lottery Commission approval is required prior to any change
of ownership or control of a license holder. Unless prior approval of the
Lottery Commission is obtained, the sale of five percent or more of the voting
stock of the license holder or any corporation that controls the license holder
or the sale of a license holder's assets (other than in the ordinary course of
business), or any interest therein, to any person not previously determined by
the Lottery Commission to have satisfied the licensing qualifications, voids the
license. Accordingly, should a party, unaffiliated with the Company, acquire 5%
or more of the voting stock of the Company, including purchases made on the open
market, the Company's license could be jeopardized insofar as such party would
be required to undergo approval by the Lottery Commission.
Under the Company's Certificate, any person who purchases 5% or more of
the Common Stock without first securing Lottery Commission approval to own such
shares, is subject to the Company's right to repurchase such shares from the
holder. See "Risk Factors - Impact of Anti-takeover Measures" and "Description
of Securities - Common Stock - Anti-takeover Provisions".
Pursuant to both the Racing Commission's and Lottery Commission's
regulatory authority, the Company may be investigated by either body at
virtually any time. Accordingly, the Company must comply with all gaming laws at
all times. Should either body consider the Company to be in violation of any of
the applicable laws or regulations, each has the plenary authority to suspend or
rescind the Company's licenses. While the Company has no knowledge of any
non-compliance, and believes that it is in full compliance with all relevant
regulations, should the Company fail to comply, its business would be materially
adversely effected.
To date, the Company has obtained all governmental licenses, findings
of suitability, registrations, permits and approvals necessary for the operation
of its current gaming activities. However, no assurances can be given that any
new licenses or approvals that may be required in the future will be given or
that existing ones will be renewed.
Horse racing, the first form of legalized wagering in West Virginia,
was the product of legislative initiative. The West Virginia legislature
approved on March 17, 1994, West Virginia's first form of gaming activity by
authorizing video lottery machines under the Lottery Act. In addition, the
Lottery Act, the enabling legislation for video lottery gaming, is subject to
renewal
- 10 -
<PAGE>
pursuant to the West Virginia sunset legislation every three years. The Lottery
Act will expire in July 1997 if not renewed by the legislature. Accordingly, the
Company's ability to remain in the gaming business depends on the continued
political acceptability of gaming activities to both the public and state
governmental officials. In addition, the gaming laws impose high tax rates, and
fixed parimutuel commission rates which, if altered, may diminish the Company's
profitability.
During the next year, West Virginia voters will elect a new governor
and, most likely, new state legislators. Due to the political nature of gaming
issues, and despite recent appropriations towards educational and recreational
purposes derived from funds generated by gaming activities, it is unknown at
this time whether such new state officials will maintain the same policies
towards gaming activities, particularly video lottery gaming, as in the past.
Any substantial unfavorable change in the enabling laws or tax rates on gaming
revenues could make the Company's business substantially more onerous, less
profitable or illegal, which would have a material adverse effect on the
Company's business.
Dependence On Key Personnel. The Company is currently managed by a
small number of key management and operating personnel, whose efforts will
largely determine the Company's success. The success of the Company also depends
upon its ability to attract, hire and retain qualified operating, marketing,
financial and technical personnel. Competition for qualified personnel in the
gaming industry is intense and, accordingly, there can be no assurance that the
Company will be able to continue to hire or retain necessary personnel. The loss
of key management personnel, particularly Edson R. Arneault, the Company's
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, would likely have a material adverse
effect on the Company. See "Management."
Competition. In recent years, the number of gaming options available
to consumers in the Company's principal markets have increased considerably.
Mountaineer's principal direct competitors are Wheeling Downs, located
approximately 40 miles to the south in Wheeling, West Virginia and Thistledown,
located approximately 85 miles to the northwest in Cleveland, Ohio. Wheeling
Downs conducts parimutuel greyhound dog racing and video lottery gaming.
Thistledown conducts parimutuel thoroughbred horse racing but not video lottery
gaming. The Company also competes with statewide lotteries in West Virginia,
Pennsylvania and Ohio, off-track and on-site wagering in Pennsylvania, and to a
lesser extent destination gaming facilities in Las Vegas and Atlantic City, as
well as other entertainment options available to consumers, including live and
televised professional and collegiate major sports events. The Company will also
compete with off-track wagering in Ohio, which has recently been approved in
that state. To the extent that either Pennsylvania or Ohio legalize any forms
- 11 -
<PAGE>
of casino gaming, and West Virginia does not, or, if recent proposals for
land-based gaming are eventually approved in West Virginia and the Company does
not qualify for a casino gaming license and other entities do, the Company's
video lottery operations might compete with any such new gaming facilities
located within driving distance of Mountaineer Park. Such facilities may offer
more or superior gaming machines than Mountaineer, as well as forms of gaming
not available in West Virginia. Taken together such competition could have a
material adverse effect on the Company. See "Business-Competition."
No Dividends. The Company has not paid any dividends on its Common
Stock since its inception and does not currently foresee the payment of cash
dividends in the future. Furthermore, under the Company's Term Loan Agreement
and the warrants issued to its lender, the Company is prohibited from paying any
dividends without the lender's consent. The Company currently intends to retain
all earnings, if any, to finance its operations.
Continued Losses from Horse Racing and Lodging, Food and Beverage
Business. To date, the Company has incurred continued losses on the Company's
parimutuel commission business and lodging, food and beverage businesses, which
have been offset by gains in the video lottery business. The Company believes
that the racing business is currently unprofitable, and is attempting to
minimize or eliminate losses from such operations by increased marketing efforts
cost cutting and enhancing the quality of racing activities. The Company
believes that its strategy of becoming a one-stop entertainment, recreation and
gaming destination resort will produce synergies which, in combination with its
video lottery operations, may maximize stockholder value. Nonetheless, there can
be no guarantees that this strategy will prove successful, that the Company's
unprofitable operations can become profitable or that the Company's profitable
operations will remain so. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Results of Operations."
Failure to Liquidate Discontinued Operations. The Company owns certain
oil and gas properties in Michigan, which it is in the process of liquidating in
furtherance of the Company's determination to focus its efforts on its core
gaming, entertainment and recreational businesses. To date, the Company has been
unable to find a buyer for these properties. Should the Company be unable to
find a buyer at a price which management believes represents fair value for the
properties, the Company may be required to sell the properties at a loss or to
write down the value of these assets on its balance sheet.
Cyclical Nature of Business. The Company's primary business involves
leisure and entertainment. During periods of recession or economic downturns,
consumers may reduce or eliminate spending on leisure and entertainment
activities. In the event that the
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<PAGE>
Company's primary demographic market suffers adverse economic conditions, the
Company's revenues may be materially adversely effected. In addition, the
operations of Mountaineer are typically seasonal in nature. Winter conditions
may adversely affect transportation routes to Mountaineer, as well as cause
cancellations of live horse racing. As a result, adverse seasonal conditions
could have a material effect on the operations of the Company.
Limited Public Market and Liquidity. The Company's Common Stock is
traded on the Nasdaq SmallCap Market and trading of its Common Stock in the
over-the-counter market is limited. A limited trading market could result in an
investor being unable to liquidate his or her investment. For continued listing
on the Nasdaq SmallCap Market, the Company, generally, must have $2 million in
total assets, $1 million in total stockholders' equity $200,000 in market value
of public float, a minimum bid price of $1.00 per share, a minimum of 100,000
shares publicly held and a minimum of 300 stockholders. If the Company is unable
to satisfy Nasdaq's maintenance criteria in the future, its Common Stock will be
subject to being delisted, and trading, if any, in the Company's Common Stock
would thereafter be conducted in the over-the-counter market in the so-called
"pink sheets" or the NASD's "Electronic Bulletin Board." As a consequence of
such delisting, an investor would likely find it more difficult to dispose, or
to obtain quotations as to the price, of the Company's Common Stock.
Shares Eligible for Future Sale. The Company had 18,869,397 shares of
Common Stock outstanding as of September 13, 1996. Of these outstanding shares,
approximately 7,187,507 shares are "restricted securities" as defined in Rule
144 adopted under the Securities Act. Of these restricted shares, 3,274,721 are
covered by this Registration Statement, and approximately 4,136,936 were
eligible to be sold under Rule 144 under the Securities Act ("Rule 144"). The
(i) 3,274,721 shares of outstanding restricted Common Stock included in this
Registration Statement; and (ii) the 1,719,119 shares of Common Stock included
in this Registration Statement which are issuable upon exercise of the Options
and Warrants will, if sold pursuant to this Registration Statement, be freely
tradeable without restriction under the Securities Act, except that any shares
acquired by an "affiliate," as that term is defined under the Securities Act,
will be subject to the resale limitations of Rule 144. In addition to the
1,719,119 shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of the Options and
Warrants covered by this registration statement, as of October 16, 1996 there
were outstanding options and warrants to purchase an aggregate of 4,738,731
shares of Common Stock which have not been registered with the Commission. In
addition, the Company has registered (i) 183,206 shares of Common Stock, (ii)
1,542,860 shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise of warrants, and
(iii) 1,542,860 warrants on another registration statement which it has filed
with the Commission. The future sale of a substantial
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<PAGE>
number of shares of Common Stock by existing holders of Common Stock and holders
of warrants and options exercisable for Common Stock pursuant to Rule 144 or
through effective registration statements may have an adverse impact on the
market price of the Common Stock and could dilute the value of outstanding
options or warrants. See "Shares Eligible for Future Sale" and "Description of
Securities - Registration Rights."
Impact of Anti-takeover Measures. Certain provisions of the Company's
Certificate and the Delaware General Corporation Law (the "DGCL") may have the
effect of making it more difficult for a third party to acquire, or of
discouraging a third party from attempting to acquire, control of the Company.
Such provisions could limit the price that certain investors might be willing to
pay in the future for shares of the Company's Common Stock. Specifically, the
Company's Certificate includes a number of provisions which may have the effect
of discouraging persons from pursuing non-negotiated takeover attempts.
Moreover, the Company's Certificate requires the Board of Directors (the
"Board") to consider a variety of factors other than the adequacy of the price
offered for the Company's securities in evaluating a takeover attempt. The
effect of this provision, in the event of a takeover attempt, may be to prevent
stockholders from receiving maximum returns on their shares in the short term
and may deflate the price of the Company's Common Stock over the long term.
Additionally, the Certificate provides the Company with a right to repurchase
any shares of Common Stock of the Company from any person who acquires more than
5% of the voting stock of the Company. This provision was adopted so that the
Company can remain in compliance with the West Virginia Lottery Act, which
requires advanced approval of any acquisition of more than 5% of the Company's
Common Stock. Nonetheless, there can be no assurance that such provision can
provide adequate protection against the Company losing its qualification with
the Lottery Commission due to the acquisition by a third party, whether on the
open market or otherwise, of more than 5% of the Company's Common Stock, as the
provision in the Certificate applies only retroactively and the Lottery Act
requires approval of such acquisitions prospectively. See "Description of
Securities Common Stock - Anti-Takeover Provisions."
USE OF PROCEEDS
The Company will not receive any proceeds from the sale of the shares
of Common Stock offered herein by the Selling Stockholders. If all of the
Options and Warrants are exercised, the Company will receive estimated net
proceeds of approximately $3,685,767. The Company intends to utilize any
proceeds received from the exercise of the Options and Warrants for general
corporate purposes. There can be no assurance that any of the Options and
Warrants will be exercised.
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<PAGE>
DIVIDEND POLICY
The Company has not paid any dividends on its Common Stock since its
inception and does not currently foresee the payment of cash dividends in the
future. Furthermore, the Company's Term Loan Agreement and the warrants issued
to the lender thereunder prohibit the payment of any dividends without the
lender's consent. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Capital Resources." The
Company currently intends to retain any earnings to finance its operations.
CAPITALIZATION
The following table sets forth the capitalization of the Company at
June 30, 1996 and as adjusted to reflect the closing of the Term Loan
($4,378,000 net proceeds) on July 2, 1996, the repayment of $250,000 of short
term debt with the proceeds of the Term Loan, the issuance of 183,206 shares of
Common Stock with an estimated fair value of $250,000 as discounted and the
estimated fair value of warrants to purchase 50,000 shares of the Company's
Common Stock totaling $6,000.
June 30, 1996
-------------
Actual As Adjusted
------ -----------
Short-term debt (excluding current
maturities of long-term debt) $ 718,000 $ 468,000
Current portion of redeemable Common Stock 772,000 772,000
Current portion of Long-term debt 3,727,000 3,727,000
Total short-term debt 5,217,000 4,967,000
--------- ---------
Long-term debt - noncurrent portion
12% Term Loan -0- 5,000,000
12.5% Bennett Loan 6,233,000 6,233,000
Other long-term debt bearing interest at
rates ranging from 8% to 12% 130,000 130,000
------- ---------
Total long-term debt-noncurrent portion 6,363,000 11,363,000
--------- -----------
Redeemable Common Stock-noncurrent portion 246,000 246,000
--------- ----------
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<PAGE>
Stockholders' equity:
Common Stock, $.00001 par value.
Authorized 25,000,000 shares;
issued and outstanding
18,869,375 shares at
June 30, 1996(1) and 19,052,581
shares as adjusted 2,000 2,000
Additional Paid-in Capital 32,760,000 33,016,000
Accumulated deficit (26,179,000) (26,179,000)
------------- ------------
Total stockholders' equity 6,583,000 6,839,000
--------- ---------
Total capitalization $18,409,000 $23,415,000
=========== ===========
(1) Excludes 4,836,130 shares of Common Stock reserved as of July
2, 1996 for issuance pursuant to outstanding options and
warrants to purchase Common Stock. At the annual meeting of
stockholders, the Company received stockholder approval to
amend its Certificate to increase the authorized Common Stock
from 25,000,000 to 50,000,000. The Company has filed an
amended Certificate with the Secretary of State of Delaware to
reflect this change.
PRICE RANGE OF COMMON STOCK
The Company's Common Stock is traded under the symbol "WINS". The
Company's Common Stock is quoted on the NASDAQ SmallCap Market. On October 14,
1996, the high bid and low asked quotations for the Company's Common Stock were
$1 5/32 and $1 7/32, respectively. As of September 13, 1996 there were
approximately 582 stockholders of
record of the Company's Common Stock.
The following table sets forth the range of high and low bid quotations
obtained from the National Quotations Bureau for the Common Stock for the two
fiscal years ended December 31, 1994 and 1995 and for the first three quarters
of the fiscal year ending December 31, 1996. These quotes are believed to be
representative of inter-dealer quotations, without retail mark-up, mark-down or
commission, and may not necessarily represent actual transactions.
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<PAGE>
High Low
---- ---
Year Ended December 31, 1994:
First Quarter 7 3/16 3 7/8
Second Quarter 5 1/2 3
Third Quarter 4 1/4 1 15/16
Fourth Quarter 2 7/32 31/32
Year Ended December 31, 1995:
First Quarter 1 15/16 1 1/16
Second Quarter 1 19/32 1 1/8
Third Quarter 1 9/16 1 1/16
Fourth Quarter 1 3/16 1 7/32
Year Ending December 31, 1996:
First Quarter 29/32 11/32
Second Quarter 1 17/32 9/16
Third Quarter 1 1/2 13/16
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The selected financial data set forth below as of and for each of the
five years ended December 31, 1995 have been derived from the audited
consolidated financial statements of the Company included elsewhere in this
Prospectus, and should be read in conjunction with those consolidated financial
statements (including the notes thereto) and with "Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" also included
elsewhere herein. The selected financial data as of and for the six months ended
June 30, 1995 and June 30, 1996 have been derived from the unaudited
consolidated financial data of the Company certain of which are included
elsewhere in this Prospectus and which in the opinion of management, include all
adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, which the Company
considers necessary for a fair presentation of the results of operations and
financial condition for those periods. The financial data for the six months
ended June 30, 1996 are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for
the year.
- 17 -
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Fiscal Year Ended December 31 Six Months
Ended June 30,
1995 1994 1993 1992 1991 1996 1995
---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
Statement of
Operations Data:
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net revenues $24,979,000 $14,682,000 $12,797,000 $690,000 $0 $16,101,000 $10,824,000
Net loss from
continuing
operations (5,313,000) (6,902,000) (5,913,000) (2,749,000) (447,000) (115,000) (2,646,000)
Loss per share from
continuing
operations (.33) (.48) (.46) (.42) (.07) (.01) (.17)
Balance Sheet Data:
Working Capital
(Deficiency) (7,286,000) (1,808,000) 313,000 60,000 (415,000) (8,412,000) (4,406,000)
Current Assets 1,972,000 3,555,000 2,354,000 2,974,000 375,000 2,204,000 2,696,000
Current Liabilities 9,258,000 5,363,000 2,041,000 2,914,000 790,000 10,616,000 7,102,000
Total Assets 25,747,000 23,958,000 19,137,000 16,812,000 478,000 25,614,000 27,695,000
Total Liabilities 19,763,000 14,200,000 6,040,000 5,641,000 1,565,000 19,031,000 18,878,000
Total Stockholders'
Equity (Capital
Deficiency) 5,984,000 9,758,000 13,097,000 11,171,000 (1,087,000) 6,583,000 8,817,000
====================================================================================================================================
</TABLE>
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<PAGE>
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.
Results of Operations
- ---------------------
In December 1992, the Company acquired all of the outstanding common
stock of Mountaineer with the intent of enhancing its existing facilities for
promotion as a high quality gaming, racing and recreation resort. Shortly
thereafter, the Company determined to focus its business primarily on the gaming
industry, and de- emphasized its activity in other businesses in order to more
fully devote corporate resources to Mountaineer, as described elsewhere in this
Prospectus. See "Results of Discontinued Operations."
Results of Continuing Operations
Years Ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993
- --------------------------------------------
The Company incurred significant losses from continuing operations
during the years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 ("1995," "1994" and
"1993" respectively). The Company incurred losses from continuing operations of
$5.3 million in 1995, $6.9 million in 1994, and $5.9 million in 1993, largely
due to the Company's inability to operate, market and maximize revenues with
respect to its video lottery business during the final three quarters of 1993
and first quarter of 1994 due to delays occasioned by the decision of the
Supreme Court of West Virginia declaring the enabling legislation for video
lottery unconstitutional and prior to the reintroduction and passage of the
Lottery Act. In addition, legal settlement provisions, operating losses incurred
in the horse racing operations of Mountaineer and corporate overhead charges
added to the Company's losses.
Revenues
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Years Ended December 31
--------------------------------------------------------------------
- ----------------------------------------------- 1995 1994 1993
---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Video Lottery Terminals $16,479,000 $7,481,000 $5,293,000
Parimutuel Commissions 4,263,000 3,768,000 4,323,000
Lodging, Food and Beverage 3,046,000 2,276,000 2,344,000
Other 1,191,000 1,157,000 1,054,000
--------- --------- ---------
$24,979,000 $14,682,000 $13,014,000
=========== =========== ===========
</TABLE>
Total revenues increased by $10.3 million from 1994 to 1995, an
increase of 70%. Approximately $9.0 million or 87%, of the increase was produced
by video lottery operations, while parimutuel commissions and lodging, food,
beverage and other operations at Mountaineer Park contributed $1.3 million or
13% of additional revenues. Total revenues increased by $1.7 million or 13% to
$14.7 million for 1994, from $13.0 million for 1993.
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<PAGE>
Video Lottery Operations
Revenues from video lottery operations increased 120%, from $7.5
million in 1994 to $16.5 million in 1995. In response to increased patronage and
a trend towards increased productivity of video lottery activities, Mountaineer
doubled the number of (VLTs) to 800 in June 1995. Video lottery revenues in the
second half of 1995 surpassed $9.1 million, a level 28% higher than revenues
earned in all of 1994. A comparison of fourth quarter revenues shows that 1995
outperformed 1994 by $1.6 million, an increase of 57% over the $2.8 million of
revenues earned in the final quarter of 1994. In December 1995, the Company
completed an expansion of its Lodge gaming facilities, allowing the placement of
half of its VLTs at the Lodge with the other half remaining in the racetrack
grandstand and clubhouse, in response to a perceived demand for more terminal
availability on days when live racing is not conducted.
VLT revenues increased by $2.2 million or 41% to $7.5 million for 1994
as compared to $5.3 million in VLT revenues for 1993. The increase was primarily
attributable to increased utilization of the 400 new VLTs which replaced 165
older VLTs on September 1, 1994.
Parimutuel Commissions
Parimutuel commissions revenue is a function of wagering handle, with a
higher commission earned on a more exotic wager, such as a trifecta, than on a
single horse wager, such as a win, place, or show bet. The Company earned an
average commission rate of 20.6% in 1995, up slightly from the 20.3% average
commission rate earned in 1994.
Both live and off-track wagering handles increased in 1995 from 1994,
yielding a 13% increase in parimutuel commissions to $4.3 million. Live wagering
handle increased 4%, from $21.2 million in 1994 to $22.0 million in 1995, an
increase which slightly surpassed the 3% increase in live race days from 220 in
1994 to 227 in 1995. Purses increased from an average of $22,500 in 1994 to an
average of $25,000 in 1995.
In September 1995, Mountaineer Park hosted the West Virginia Breeders'
Classics, a night of stakes races with $330,000 in purses funded by taxes on
statewide video lottery revenues. Mountaineer Park broadcast a simulcast signal
of the stakes races, earning commissions on $351,000 of handle wagered off-site.
Early in 1995 the Company expanded its off-track betting facilities in
both the racetrack clubhouse, grandstand and the Lodge, contributing to a 24%
increase in simulcast wagering handle from $14.3 million in 1994 to $17.8
million in 1995, an increase of $3.5 million. In April 1995, Mountaineer Park
began offering greyhound off-track betting, which contributed $2.7 million to
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<PAGE>
increased simulcast handle in 1995. The remaining $800,000 increase is
attributable to the enhancement of Mountaineer's off- track betting facilities
and more extensive offerings of simulcast racing. For most of 1995, Mountaineer
offered simulcast racing seven days per week, compared to six days per week in
1994.
Parimutuel commissions in 1994 decreased 13% to $3.8 million from $4.3
million for 1993. Total parimutuel wagering handle decreased from $41.0 million
to $35.5 million or 13.4% for 1994 as compared to 1993.
Live racing handle constituted an 18% decrease from $25.7 million to
$21.1 million, while simulcast handle reflected only a 7% decrease to $14.3
million in 1994 from $15.3 million for 1993. Although the Company experienced an
increase in live racing attendance of approximately 6,000 patrons, from 234,000
to 240,000, the Company had fewer racing days in 1994 (220) than 1993 (226).
Management increased minimum daily purses from $18,000 in 1993 to $22,500 in
1994 for live racing in order to attract higher quality performing horses and
higher spectator betting to increase parimutuel commission revenues. Fifteen and
one-half percent (15.5%) of VLT revenues are automatically devoted to purse
funding to achieve this management objective.
Lodging, Food and Beverage
Revenues earned from lodging, food and beverage activities increased
34%, from $2.3 million earned in 1994 to $3.0 million in 1995. The increase is a
reflection of significantly greater attendance at the Company's video gaming and
off-track betting facilities, as well as a slight increase in live racing
attendance. Restaurant, bar and concession facilities produced $582,000 of the
revenue increase, while Lodge revenues increased $194,000. Food and beverage
operations accounted for approximately three quarters of the revenues earned by
this profit center in both 1995 and 1994. A fire in October 1994 caused 41 of
the Lodge's 101 rooms to be unusable during the fourth quarter of 1994 and the
first four months of 1995.
Food, beverage and lodging revenues decreased 3% from slightly more
than $2.3 million for 1993 to slightly under $2.3 million for 1994. Guest room
revenues decreased $50,000 or 8% from $621,000 to $571,000 for 1994 as compared
to the year ended 1993, which resulted from the reduction in available rooms due
to planned remodeling and construction. Additional negative impact on room
revenues was attributable to the fire damage sustained during the fourth quarter
of 1994. Between 1993 and 1994, average occupancy remained stable at 46%, while
the average room rate decreased from $36 to $34. Food and beverage revenues
increased $38,000 to $1.7 million in 1994 compared to 1993. The increase is
primarily due to the higher attendance and dining room menu improvements
implemented in early 1994.
- 21 -
<PAGE>
Other Revenues
Other sources of revenues consist primarily of non-core businesses such
as admission, programs, golf, tennis and swimming. While these lines of business
are not the Company's most profitable, the Company believes they are necessary
for the Company to continue to attract gaming patrons. In total, other revenues
were virtually unchanged from 1994 to 1995, amounting to approximately $1.2
million each year. Operations in 1995 saw a moderate increase in revenues
relating to admission fees and program sales. Other revenues increased to $1.2
million from $1.1 million or 10% for 1994 as compared to 1993.
Operating Costs
Total operating costs increased by 62%, from $13.4 million in 1994 to
$21.8 million in 1995. Approximately $6.5 million of the increase was
attributable to the substantial growth in VLT revenues which more than doubled
from $5.7 million in 1994 to $12.3 million in 1995. Parimutuel commissions
expense accounted for $500,000 of the increase, largely a reflection of the 13%
increase in commission revenues, and lodging, food and beverage operating costs
increased $900,000, exceeding the $770,000 revenue increase earned by those
operations. The gains resulting from the profitability of the video lottery
operations have been offset by the losses sustained by parimutuel commissions
and lodging, food and beverage businesses; however, the Company has been able to
substantially reduce its losses due to the improvement in VLT operations. Based
on this trend, the Company is attempting to expand the video lottery business,
while attempting to reduce the losses of the parimutuel and lodging, food and
beverage businesses, by increasing productivity, expanding marketing efforts,
increasing purse sizes and attracting higher quality jockeys and horses to
increase parimutuel wagering.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Years Ended December 31
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Costs 1995 1994 1993
---- ---- ----
- ---------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Video Lottery Terminals $12,256,000 $5,709,000 $3,720,000
Parimutuel Commissions 5,064,000 4,563,000 5,136,000
Lodging, Food and Beverage 3,285,000 2,337,000 2,364,000
Other 1,195,000 798,000 787,000
---------- ---------- ---------
$21,800,000 $13,407,000 $12,007,000
=========== =========== ===========
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Years Ended December 31
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Gross Profit (Loss) 1995 1994 1993
---- ---- ----
- ---------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Video Lottery Terminals $4,223,000 $1,772,000 $1,573,000
Parimutuel Commissions (801,000) (795,000) (813,000)
Lodging, Food and Beverage (239,000) (61,000) (20,000)
Other (4,000) 359,000 267,000
---------- ---------- ---------
$3,179,000 $1,275,000 $1,007,000
========== ========== ==========
</TABLE>
- 22 -
<PAGE>
Video Lottery Terminals Operating Costs
Taxes on statutory assessments applicable to VLT revenue increased from
35% of such revenues ("net win") prior to March 1994 to 53% of net win
thereafter. This increase in assessment rate, coupled with the 120% increase in
VLT revenues, resulted in a $4.5 million increase in state taxes and statutory
assessments from 1994 to 1995, to $8.4 million. Approximately $2.5 million of
1995 statutory costs were contributed to Mountaineer's horseowners' association
in the form of live racing purse payments, compared to $1.1 million in 1994,
while $80,000 was contributed to Mountaineer's employee pension fund in 1995, up
from $31,000 in 1994.
VLT lease expenses increased from $790,000 in 1994 to $1.3 million in
1995, a reflection largely of the increased number of terminals leased, from 165
prior to September 1994, to 400 from September, 1994 through June, 1995, and 800
thereafter. Salaries, payroll taxes and employee benefits increased from
$503,000 in 1994 to $964,000 in 1995, and utilities increased from $125,000 to
$313,000, both increases resulting in increased personnel to service the
expanded number of gaming terminals and related increase in patronage.
Cost of VLTs increased by $2.0 million or 53% from $3.7 million to $5.7
million for 1994 compared to 1993. Contributing to this increase were statutory
expenses which increased from $1.7 million in 1993 to $3.9 million for 1994,
excluding costs associated with VLT leases of $790,000 and $1.2 million in 1994
and 1993, respectively. On March 17, 1994, the State of West Virginia approved
the continued operation of VLTs, however, statutory rates paid to certain
entities were mandated at substantially higher amounts in effect as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
March 18, 1994 March 17, 1994
and Beyond and Prior
--------------------------- ---------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
State of West Virginia 30.0% 25.0% (1)
Hancock County 2.0% 0.0%
Horseman's Association 15.5% 10.0%
Other 5.5% 0.0%
----- -----
Total Statutory Payments 53.0% (2) 35.0%
----- -----
</TABLE>
(1) Increased from 20% to 25% in June 1993.
(2) Excludes up to a 4% administrative fee charged by the State of West
Virginia based on revenues. In addition, rates are applied to revenues
net of this 4% administrative fee.
In addition to the above rates, the Company paid a 3% management fee
(after the State's 4% administrative fee), based on
- 24 -
<PAGE>
VLT revenues to American Gaming and Entertainment, Ltd. ("AGEL") which began on
October 26, 1994, as approved by the Lottery Commission. This management
agreement was stayed in July 1995. A consulting agreement with American Newco
providing for fees of $20,000 per month, as discussed below, replaced the
management agreement. The Company was also required to pay additional management
fees of 8% of income before depreciation, amortization, taxes and interest.
Total management fees charged to the cost of VLTs in 1994 were $133,000. From
January 1, 1993 to March 1993 and from April 1993 to August 1993, the Company
paid the lessor of its 165 video lottery terminals 23% and 10% of net revenues,
respectively. This agreement has since been terminated.
VLT cashier and technician salaries expense in 1994 increased $52,000
to $215,000 from 1993, which reflected the additional employees hired to support
the operation of 400 VLTs. Increased costs for utilities, insurance, and
rentals, due to enlarged facilities and increased personnel costs, accounted for
an additional increase of 17% for 1994 as compared to 1993.
Parimutuel Commissions Operating Costs
Salaries, payroll taxes and employee benefits increased from $2.2
million in 1994 to $2.5 million in 1995, partly as an accommodation due to
certain inefficiencies caused by Mountaineer Park's extensive construction
activities in 1995. A general upgrade in maintenance activities contributed to
this increase, as well as a $65,000 increase in repair and maintenance supplies.
The Company's totalisator rents and payments of host track fees increased
$177,000 in 1995 from the prior year as a result of the 24% increase in revenues
achieved by its off-track betting operation. Liability insurance expense in 1995
was $87,000 higher than the prior period, a reflection of the increased volume
of business and an industry-wide increase in jockey insurance.
Cost of parimutuel commissions was lower by $573,000 or 11% from $5.1
million to $4.6 million for 1994 compared to 1993. This decrease is consistent
with the decrease in parimutuel revenues in 1994 largely due to the contractual
nature of the Company's expenses, as well as certain cost reduction measures
implemented by management.
Lodging, Food and Beverage Operating Costs
Mountaineer experienced an increase in Lodging, Food and Beverage
Operating Costs from 1994 to 1995 of $948,000, $695,000 of which related to the
segment's operating increased costs attributable to food and beverage
operations. Although cost of sales rates increased only slightly from 42% in
1994 to 44% in 1995, this cost category increased by $303,000 in proportion to
the $582,000 increase in sales. Food and beverage labor costs rose
- 25 -
<PAGE>
approximately $320,000 which was also commensurate with the increase in revenues
despite no appreciable change in occupancy rates from 1994 to 1995. The cost of
lodging, food, and beverage sales decreased from $2,364,000 for 1993 to
$2,337,000 in 1994 or $27,000.
Other Operating Costs
Cost of other, consisting primarily of non-core businesses such as
admission, programs, golf, tennis and swimming were higher by $422,000 or 64%
from $778,000 to $1.2 million for 1995 as compared to 1994 notwithstanding flat
revenues for these operations in 1995. Approximately 81% of such increase was
directly attributable to expanded hours of operation and increased staffing and
scope of off-track betting operations. Costs of other revenues were higher by
$11,000 or 1% from $787,000 to $798,000 for 1994 as compared to 1993.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses, and Interest
Expense
Selling general and administrative expenses decreased $104,000 from
$6.7 million in 1994 to $6.6 million in 1995. Legal and other professional fees
decreased from $1.4 million in 1994 to $1.1 million in 1995. In addition,
several non-recurring charges affected selling, general and administrative
expenses as follows: a provision for settlement of legal actions of $525,000 and
development costs write-offs of $200,000 in 1994, and provisions for settlement
of legal actions of $408,000 and doubtful notes receivable from related parties
of $290,000, and relocation and severance charges of $596,000 in 1995.
Selling, general and administrative expenses at Mountaineer rose 4%,
from $2.6 million in 1994 to $2.7 million in 1995. Advertising expenses
increased from $715,000 in 1994 to $938,000 in 1995 as revenues grew from $14.7
million to $25.0 million. Salaries decreased from $1.3 million in 1994 to
$961,382 in 1995; 1994 compensation includes $600,000 in non-cash expense
incurred in connection with stock options on the Company's Common Stock issued
below market in connection with an employment agreement with a former
stockholder of Mountaineer. During the years 1995 and 1994, the Company incurred
noncash expenses of $2.1 million and $2.9 million, respectively.
Interest expense decreased 24% from $729,000 in 1994 to $557,000 in
1995 despite the increased construction loan balances carried in 1995. Of the
interest incurred in 1995, $1.1 million was capitalized to the cost of
construction compared to only $790,000 capitalized in 1994 due to higher levels
of construction activity in 1995.
- 26 -
<PAGE>
Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by 5% from $6.4
million to $6.7 million in 1994 versus 1993. Costs included in this increase
were the $525,000 for settlement of legal actions, a $200,000 write-off of
development, design and architectural costs and legal and professional fees,
which, in the aggregate, caused an increase of $1,039,000 from $319,000 to
$1,359,000. In addition, payroll expenses increased from $812,000 to $1,109,000
or $297,000 and advertising expenses increased by $170,000 from $915,000 to
$1,085,000. The Company experienced significantly higher legal and professional
fees in 1994 because of the West Virginia Supreme Court litigation and costs
associated with securing the ultimate approval of VLT operations. The Company
also incurred fees associated with a new collective bargaining agreement,
lawsuits in the normal course of business and contractual agreements consummated
in 1994, including agreements with the horseman's association, the lease for
VLTs, and the management agreement with AGEL.
Interest expenses increased by $659,000 from $70,000 to $729,000 for
1994, as compared to 1993. The increase was attributable to the interest cost at
12.5% per annum on principal amounts borrowed for construction and redevelopment
activities at Mountaineer, as well as approximately $631,000 of non-cash
interest expenses associated with Common Stock issued to Bennett. Interest costs
capitalized to construction activities in 1994 totalled approximately $790,000,
and financing costs deferred in the consolidated balance sheet at December 31,
1994 were $1,628,000 to be amortized over the expected term of the loan for
construction activities (based on qualified assets) and interest expenses;
however, due to a settlement negotiated in 1995 with Bennett, $998,000 such
costs which were accrued on that date, were cancelled and not amortized.
Depreciation and amortization expense increased from $910,000 in 1994
to $1.5 million in 1996, in reflection of the $5.9 million investment in
property, plant and equipment during that period. 1994 depreciation and
amortization expenses increased $285,000 from a level of $625,000 in 1993,
largely as a result of the $3.4 million investment in capital expenditures
incurred in 1994. These investments were made as part of the capital improvement
and expansion program at Mountaineer Park, Inc.
During the years 1994 and 1993, the Company incurred noncash expenses
of $2.9 million and $2.4 million, including depreciation and amortization of
$1.1 million and $1.0 million, respectively. From time to time, the Company has
issued Common Stock for services, settlements and interest expenses (see Notes
5, 9 and 15 in the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.")
- 27 -
<PAGE>
Six Months Ended June 30, 1996 and 1995
Revenues
The Company earned revenues for the respective six-month periods in
1996 and 1995 as shown below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Six Months Ended
June 30, June 30,
1996 1995
---------------------------- ----------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Video lottery operations $11,900,000 $6,843,000
Parimutuel commissions 2,165,000 2,048,000
Lodging, food and beverage 1,573,000 1,391,000
Other revenues 463,000 542,000
---------------------------- ----------------------------
$16,101,000 $10,824,000
============================ ============================
</TABLE>
Operating revenues increased significantly in late 1995, most notably
in video lottery operations. Total revenues increased by $5.3 million or 49%, to
$16.1 million in the first half of 1996 from $10.8 million in the first half of
1995.
The geographic area surrounding the Company's operating facilities in
West Virginia experienced extensive flooding and unusually heavy snowfall in the
first quarter of 1996. Flood and snow damage in portions of Ohio, West Virginia
and Western Pennsylvania reached levels resulting in their designation as
federal disaster areas. Nonetheless, Mountaineer Park's facilities are situated
well above the flood plain and did not sustain any damage. Mountaineer Park's
nearest competitor was extensively damaged and ceased operations for
approximately four weeks in the first quarter of 1996.
Video Lottery Operations
A summary of the video lottery gross winnings, less patron payouts, for
the six months ended June 30, 1996 and 1995 is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Six Months Ended
June 30 June 30
1996 1995
---------------------- ---------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Total gross wagers $42,217,000 $23,178,000
Less patron payouts (30,317,000) (16,335,000)
---------------------- ---------------------
Revenues - video lottery operations $11,900,000 $6,843,000
====================== =====================
</TABLE>
- 28 -
<PAGE>
VLT revenues for the six month period ended June 30, 1996 increased by
$5.1 million to $11.9 million, or nearly double the level of VLT revenues for
the same period in 1995. The increase was primarily attributable to the
expansion of video lottery facilities, the addition of 400 more terminals in
July 1995 and the expansion of the Speakeasy Gaming Saloon in December 1995. The
results of video lottery operations reflect a continuing trend of increasing
aggregate net win. The Company maintained $82 per machine net win per day for
the six months ended June 30, 1996 with 800 VLTs in operation, compared to $95
per day for the six months ended June 30, 1995 with only 400 VLTs in operation.
On July 3, 1996, the Company introduced several offerings of classic
casino "slot" games on 350 of its 800 VLTs. The new games are offered in
addition to the Company's existing gaming choices of video poker, keno and
blackjack. The inception of video slot gaming coincided with the commencement of
a large scale marketing campaign aimed beyond the 40 mile radius from which
Mountaineer has traditionally drawn the bulk of its patrons. The Company earned
an average daily net win of $142 per terminal during the period between July 4
and August 31, 1996 following installation of video slot games, compared to $68
per terminal during the same period in 1995.
Parimutuel Commissions
The Company's revenues from racing operations are derived mainly from
commissions earned on parimutuel wagering handle on live races held at
Mountaineer Park and on races conducted at other host racetracks and simulcast
at Mountaineer Park. The Company's total parimutuel commissions for the six
months ended June 30, 1996 and 1995 are summarized below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Six Months Ended
June 30 June 30
1996 1995
-------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Total parimutuel wagering handle $20,182,000 $19,242,000
Less patrons' winning (15,990,000) (15,314,000)
tickets
-------------------------------------------------------
4,192,000 3,928,000
Less:
State and County parimutuel (246,000) (224,000)
tax
Purses and Horsemen's (1,781,000) (1,656,000)
Association
-------------------------------------------------------
Parimutuel Commissions $2,165,000 $2,048,000
=======================================================
</TABLE>
- 29 -
<PAGE>
For the six months ended June 30, 1996, simulcast handle rose by $2.6
million, or 32% compared to $10.6 million for the same period in 1995.
Management believes the increase resulted from renovations to track betting
facilities and an increase in the number of wagering days to seven days per week
at multiple facilities within Mountaineer Park, plus the introduction of
simulcast greyhound racing in the second quarter of 1995.
Live racing handle declined by $1.7 million to $9.6 million, or 15% for
the six months ended June 30, 1996 from $11.2 million for the six months ended
June 30, 1995. Through the first half of 1996, Mountaineer Park had completed
108 of the annually required 220 live racing days compared to 113 days for the
same period in 1995. Average daily purses, which were $25,000 in the second
quarter of 1995, have increased several times during 1995 and 1996 to $31,000 at
June 30, 1996, and the Company plans to raise daily purses to $50,000 in the
fourth quarter of 1996. Management believes that live racing handle will
increase as racing purses increase, based on the belief that higher purses
attract higher quality jockeys and horses, which in turn captures the interest
of horse racing bettors from a larger geographic region. In accordance with this
philosophy, the Company has recently begun offering moderately funded stakes
races of up to $20,000, with the intention of funding more sizable stakes races
if a favorable revenue trend develops from this practice. The Company also plans
to raise daily purses (excluding stakes races) approximately 50% to $50,000
during the fourth quarter of 1996.
Food, Beverage and Lodging Operations
Food, beverage and lodging revenues increased 13% to $1,573,000 for the
six months ended June 30, 1996 from $1,391,000 for the same six month period in
1995. Management believes that refurbishment of the Lodge guest rooms early in
1995, in combination with other improvements at Mountaineer Park, contributed to
a $109,000 lodging revenue increase to $439,000 from $330,000 for the same
period-to-period comparison. Forty-one guest rooms were unavailable for use in
the first quarter of 1995 due to smoke damage sustained as a result of fire
experienced in the fourth quarter of 1994. Food and beverage revenues also
reflected an increase of $73,000 to $1,134,000 from $1,061,000 for the six
months ended June 30, 1995.
Other Operating Revenue
Other sources of revenue decreased by $79,000 to $463,000 from
$542,000, for the six month period ended June 30, 1996, compared to the same
period in 1995. Other operating revenues are primarily derived from the sale of
programs, parking and admission fees relating to Mountaineer Park's racing
activities.
- 30 -
<PAGE>
Operating Costs
Operating costs and gross profit earned from operations for the six
month periods ended June 30, 1996 and 1995 are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Six Months Ended
Operating Costs June 30 June 30
1996 1995
-------------------------- ---------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Video lottery operations $8,028,000 $4,892,000
Parimutuel commissions 2,497,000 2,644,000
Lodging, food and beverage 1,529,000 1,616,000
Other revenues 492,000 522,000
-------------------------- ---------------------------
$12,546,000 $9,674,000
========================== ===========================
-------------------------- ---------------------------
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Six Months Ended
Gross Profit (Loss) June 30 June 30
1996 1995
-------------------------- ---------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Video lottery operations $3,872,000 $1,951,000
Parimutuel commissions (332,000) (596,000)
Lodging, food and beverage 44,000 (225,000)
Other revenues (29,000) 20,000
-------------------------- ---------------------------
$3,555,000 $1,150,000
========================== ===========================
</TABLE>
The Company's 49% increase in revenues resulting from the expanded
scope of entertainment offerings resulted in higher total costs as expenses
increased by $2.9 million to $12.5 million in the first half of 1996, an
increase of 30%, from $9.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 1995.
Video Lottery Operations
Costs of VLTs increased by $3.1 million, or 64%, from $4.9 million to
$8.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 1996, compared to the six months
ended June 30, 1995, reflecting the increase in statutory expenses directly
related to the 74% increase in video lottery revenues. Such expenses accounted
for $2.7 million of the total cost increase.
After payment of a state administrative fee of up to 4% of revenues,
Mountaineer is obligated to make payments from the remaining video lottery
revenues to certain funds administered by the Lottery Commission, as follows:
State Tax Fund 30%, Horsemen's
- 31 -
<PAGE>
Purse Fund 15.5%, Hancock County Tax Fund 2%, Breeders Classics Fund 1%,
Veterans Memorial Fund 1%, and 0.5% to the Mountaineer Employee Pension Fund.
Taxes and assessments paid to these restricted funds are included in cost of
video lottery operations in the consolidated statements of operations. Fund
payments for the respective six-month periods are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Six Months Ended
June 30 June 30
1996 1995
-------------------------- ---------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
State Tax Fund $3,481,000 $1,999,000
Horsemen's Purse Funds 1,799,000 1,033,000
Other Funds 870,000 501,000
-------------------------- ---------------------------
$6,150,000 $3,533,000
========================== ===========================
</TABLE>
In addition, the Company paid management fees of $198,000 to AGEL for
management services for the six months ended June 30, 1995. The Company's June
2, 1994 management agreement with AGEL was suspended pursuant to a stay
agreement effective June 30, 1995, until such time as Bennett, the Company's
construction lender, complied with certain financial disclosure requirements of
the Lottery Commission.
On July 1, 1995, the Company and American Newco, which the Company
believes is an affiliate of AGEL, entered into a consulting agreement whereby
American Newco agreed to provide consulting services in connection with the
Company's video lottery operations at the rate of $10,000 per month, subject to
increases of up to $10,000 per month for additional services which may be
provided, through March 17, 1997. The personal involvement of the two
stockholders of American Newco as consultants to the Company is a material
element of the consulting agreement. Such personal involvement has not been
provided since October 15, 1995, and on May 10, 1996, the Company provided
American Newco and AGEL with formal notice of termination of the consulting and
management agreements, respectively. (Pursuant to a June 30, 1995 settlement
agreement between the Company, Mountaineer and Gamma of West Virginia, Inc., a
subsidiary of AGEL, in the event the consulting agreement with American Newco is
terminated for cause, the management agreement automatically terminates.) As a
result, no consulting fees have accrued in 1996. On May 14, 1996, the Company
received written notice from a representative of AGEL demanding payment under
the management agreement. On September 19, 1996, the Company and AGEL settled
all claims with each other, however, this agreement may be subject to the
approval by the bankruptcy court and there can be no guarantee that such
approval will be made on terms satisfactory to the Company, if at all.
Notwithstanding this fact, management believes that sufficient grounds exist to
- 32 -
<PAGE>
terminate the Management Agreement without additional liability to the Company.
VLT salaries expense increased by $154,000 to $401,000 for the six
months ended June 30, 1996, compared to $247,000 for the six months ended June
30, 1995. This increase was attributable to staff hired to support the
operations of the additional VLTs. Costs incurred by the Company for utilities
and insurance in 1996 due to enlarged facilities and expanded staff increased by
$122,000 to $255,000 for the six months ended June 30, 1996 from $133,000 for
the six months ended June 30, 1995. Lease expenses increased from $435,000 in
the first half of 1995 to $718,000 in the first half of 1996, reflecting the 400
additional VLTs placed into service in the third quarter of 1995.
Racing Operations
Costs of parimutuel commissions declined $147,000, or 6%, from $2.6
million in the first half of 1995 to $2.5 million in the first half of 1996.
Simulcast host race fees and totalisator system lease expenses relating to
simulcasting operations increased $106,000 from the first half of 1995 to the
first half of 1996, due to expansion of this phase of racing. Totalisator lease
expenses relating to live racing declined $75,000 from the first half of 1995
versus the same period of 1996 due to negotiation of more favorable lease terms
in December 1995. The reduction in live race days, from 113 in the first half of
1995 to 108 in the same period in 1996, also contributed to the reduction in
expenses.
Food, Beverage and Lodging Operations
Food, beverage and lodging expenses decreased by $87,000 to $1,529,000
in the first half of 1996 from $1,616,000 for the same period of 1995,
reflecting greater operating efficiencies achieved in 1996.
Costs of Other Revenues
Costs of other revenues decreased by $30,000 to $492,000 for the six
month period ended June 30, 1996 from $522,000 for the six month period ended
June 30, 1995.
General and Administrative Expenses
General and administrative expenses for the first half of 1996
decreased by $403,000 to $2.1 million or 16%, from $2.5 million for the first
half of 1995. Management's efforts to reduce the cost of corporate operations
produced a decrease in corporate general and administrative expenses of $150,000
from $925,000, or 16%, to $775,000 for the same period-to-period comparison.
Corporate general and administrative expenses for the first half of 1996
reflected the issuance of 200,000 shares, valued at $106,000, for
- 33 -
<PAGE>
services rendered by a key consultant and significant stockholder. Selling,
General and administrative expenses at Mountaineer reflected a 13% decrease,
from $1.6 million for 1995 to $1.3 million for 1996 despite the expanded scope
of Mountaineer's operations and the assumption of certain corporate
responsibilities. A $208,000 reversal of a 1995 provision for estimated
litigation losses had a favorable impact on second quarter 1996 expenses.
Advertising expenses, included in selling, general and administrative
expenses, decreased by 19%, from $535,000 to $433,000 for the six months ended
June 30, 1996, compared to the same period in 1995. Advertising expenditures are
expected to increase significantly in the second half of 1996 as the Company
commences promotion of its new video slot games.
Results of Discontinued Operations
On March 31, 1993, the Company's board of directors approved a formal
plan to divest the Company of certain oil and gas operations the Company owns in
Michigan through a plan of orderly liquidation. This decision was based upon
several factors including (i) the anticipated potential of the Company's gaming
operations and the anticipated time to be devoted to it by management, (ii) the
expiration of "Section 29" credits, a credit against federal income taxes
derived from gas produced from Devonian Shale and "tight sands" formations from
wells commenced before January 1993, (iii) the impact of delays in connection
with the West Virginia Supreme Court litigation and subsequent passage of
enabling legislation for video lottery during 1994 which caused management to
focus the Company's efforts and financial resources on Mountaineer Park, and
(iv) the Company's desire to continue to place its primary emphasis on its
gaming and recreational businesses. That plan of orderly liquidation provided
for certain rework, remediation and development costs to address environmental
matters, increased production and enhancement of the value of such properties
for sale.
Descriptions of the oil and gas properties and financial information
relating to operating results and balance sheet items as of December 31, 1994
and 1995 and as of June 30, 1996 have been disclosed as "Discontinued
Operations" for purposes of this Prospectus.
Although the Company has prepared a plan of liquidation with respect to
these properties, it has thus far been unable to effect a liquidation of its
Michigan properties due to the lack of financial resources available to complete
its rework costs. The Company has valued such properties at $2,616,000 as of
June 30, 1996, net of $252,000 of accrued rework costs, which it believes
represents net realizable value for the properties. Nonetheless, given the
Company's difficulty in finding a buyer for the
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properties, it may be required to sell the properties at a loss and on terms
substantially less favorable to the Company than initially foreseen or,
alternatively, to write down the value of such assets on its consolidated
balance sheet. Management will thoroughly assess the carry value of its Michigan
properties during the fourth quarter of 1996.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
At June 30, 1996, the Company had current liabilities in excess of
current assets of approximately $8.4 million, of which $772,000 relates to
redeemable Common Stock obligations and $3.7 million represents the current
portion of long-term debt. The Company secured a series of short-term loans in
the second quarter of 1996 totaling $1.1 million to address cash flow demands
existing prior to the funding of the $5 million Term Loan in July 1996.
Approximately $382,000 of these short-term obligations were repaid in the second
quarter and the remaining $718,000 were repaid or settled in July and August.
Pursuant to the $10.2 million Bennett Loan, the Company paid the first
four of the 36 requisite monthly principal payments in May, June, July and
August 1996. Despite increases in revenues, repayment of the Bennett Loan over
36 months could unduly burden the Company's cash flow, and there can be no
assurance that, absent approval of the restructuring of the Bennett Loan or
additional financing on terms more favorable than those of the Bennett Loan, the
Company could continue to pay that indebtedness and meet all of its other
obligations. The Company is taking the following measures discussed below to
address its near and long-term liquidity concerns and capital needs.
Amendment of the Bennett Construction Loan Agreement
The Bennett Loan, which had an outstanding balance of approximately
$8.8 million as of September 30, 1996, is secured by a first mortgage on
Mountaineer's real and personal property and is guaranteed by the Company. The
Bennett Loan calls for 36 monthly payments of principal and interest based on a
36 month amortization schedule. The Bennett Loan bears interest at the rate of
12.5% per year with a delinquency interest rate of 14.5%. The Bennett Loan does
permit prepayment by the Company without interest penalty. In March 1996,
Bennett and its parent, The Bennett Funding Group, Inc., filed for protection
from creditors under Chapter 11 of the federal bankruptcy laws. The bankruptcy
court assigned a trustee to administer the Bennett companies while in
bankruptcy. On July 1, 1996, the Company lost an application for a Temporary
Restraining Order, which would have suspended payments of interest and principal
under the Bennett Loan. Despite this ruling, the Company has continued
negotiations with the Trustee and as of September 19, 1996 reached an agreement.
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By Amendment of the Construction Loan Agreement (the "Amendment") dated
September 19, 1996 among the Company, Mountaineer and Richard C. Breeden, solely
in his capacity as trustee (the "Trustee") of the estate of Bennett, the Company
and Mountaineer agreed to settle all claims against Bennett. This Amendment is
contingent upon approval by the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern
District of New York (the "Bankruptcy Court"). If the Amendment is approved by
the Bankruptcy Court, it will be effective as of October 31, 1996 and the
Company and Mountaineer will dismiss their lawsuit against Bennett with
prejudice. The material terms of the Amendment are as follows:
The Amendment would modify the schedule for amortization of the
principal of the Bennett Loan such that instead of 36 equal monthly payments of
$283,333, Mountaineer will make principal payments of $75,000 per month from
October through March and $125,000 per month from April through September. The
remaining principal balance would continue to be due on April 30, 1999. In the
event that the Bennett Loan is not prepaid by December 31, 1997, the interest
rate on any outstanding balance would, as of January 1, 1998, increase from
12.5% to 14.5% until paid in full; provided, however, that (i) if the Holder of
the second trust on Mountaineer's property (currently Madeleine, LLC pursuant to
a Deed of Trust and the Term Loan Agreement) for any reason does not approve
such interest rate increase, then the interest rate would not increase; and (ii)
in lieu thereof, the monthly payments of principal would increase to $100,000
from October through March and to $200,000 from April through September.
The Amendment would also modify the Company's obligation to issue
additional shares of the Company's Common Stock to Bennett if the loan is not
prepaid by January 1, 1997. Whereas the Bennett Loan as previously amended
required the Company to issue Bennett $2.5 million worth of the Company's Common
Stock based on the average market price for the 20 consecutive trading days
preceding January 2, 1997, the Amendment would permit the Company, at its
option, either to pay Bennett $500,000 or issue $750,000 in Common Stock.
Similarly, the Company would be permitted to pay $750,000 or issue $1 million in
Common Stock if the Bennett Loan is not prepaid by July 1, 1997, and pay $1
million or issue $1.25 million in Common Stock if the Bennett Loan is not
prepaid by December 31, 1997. If the Company elects to issue Bennett additional
shares of Common Stock, such shares would be subject to the requirement that, to
the extent such issuance would otherwise result in Bennett having voting rights
equivalent to more than 5% of the Company's issued and outstanding shares of
Common Stock, then such voting rights would be transferred to the Company's
Board.
To the extent any shares of Common Stock previously issued pursuant to
the Bennett Loan or to be issued pursuant to the Amendment are restricted and
are not eligible for public sale
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pursuant to court order or exemption, then Bennett would be entitled to
piggyback registration rights with respect to such shares should the Company or
any stockholder of the Company make a registered offering of Common Stock
excluding registered offerings undertaken in connection with the Term Loan
Agreement until December 31, 1997. Bennett would also be entitled to demand
registration rights after December 31, 1997 or any other time at which there is
a registered offering in connection with the Term Loan Agreement.
In the event the Trustee desires to sell any of the shares of Common
Stock held by Bennett, the Amendment would also grant the Company the right to
match any bona fide offer of a nonaffiliate to purchase the shares until
December 31, 1997. The Amendment likewise grants the Company an option for the
period commencing on the date Mountaineer has paid the Bennett Loan in full and
terminating ten business days thereafter, to purchase all (but not part) of the
1,530,000 shares currently held by Bennett for a price per share equal to 90% of
the average closing bid price of the Common Stock as reported by Nasdaq for the
twenty (20) consecutive trading days immediately preceding the date on which
Mountaineer retires the Bennett Loan. In no event will such price be less than
$1.125 per share.
As part of the Amendment, AGEL, an affiliate of Bennett which had
performed management services at Mountaineer Park pursuant to the Management
Agreement, delivered an acknowledgment that the Management Agreement had been
terminated and that a June 30, 1995 Settlement Agreement among the Company,
Mountaineer, and AGEL was now deemed to be in effect. That Settlement Agreement,
when deemed effective, will terminate the Management Agreement and settle the
accounts of the parties as of June 30, 1995.
The Amendment is expressly subject to the approval of the Bankruptcy
Court, upon application to be made by the Trustee upon proper notice to
Bennett's creditors, which application was served by the Trustee on September
20, 1996 and filed with the Court on September 25, 1996. There can be no
assurance, however, that the Bankruptcy Court will approve the Amendment or any
modification thereof on terms acceptable to the Company or that other
satisfactory terms could be renegotiated if the Amendment is not approved.
Pending final Bankruptcy Court approval of the Amendment, the Company
has continued to remit interest and principal payments to Bennett under the
terms of the Bennett Loan agreement. See "Description of Certain Indebtedness."
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$5 Million Term Loan
On July 2, 1996, the Company and Mountaineer entered into a financing
arrangement with a private lender for a working capital loan and a commitment
for first mortgage refinancing (the "Loan Commitment"). The $5 million Term Loan
is secured by a second mortgage on Mountaineer's real and personal property and
is guaranteed by the Company. The note evidencing the loan calls for monthly
payments of interest only at the rate of 12% per annum, and a default rate of
22% per annum. The Company also agreed to issue the lender 183,206 shares of its
Common Stock and warrants to purchase an additional 1,142,860 shares for no
separate consideration at $1.06 per share. Warrants to purchase an additional
aggregate amount of 50,000 shares at $.80 per share were issued to two
affiliates of the lender. The principal is to be repaid at the end of the three
year term, during which time the loan is subject to, on each anniversary date,
additional fees in cash equal to 8% of the outstanding principal balance, stock
equal to 5% of the outstanding principal balance (valued at the average closing
bid price for the 30 days prior to each anniversary date), and warrants to
purchase 250,000 shares of Common Stock at $1.06 per share. This loan can be
prepaid without payment penalty at the Company's option. The loan proceeds will
be used to substantially liquidate trade accounts payable, fund future capital
expenditures, and launch extensive television and print advertising campaigns.
See "Description of Certain Indebtedness."
$11.1 Million First Mortgage Commitment
As part of the Term Loan transaction, the lender also provided a
one-year commitment which expires on June 30, 1997 to lend Mountaineer up to
$11.1 million of additional funds to be used to refinance the current mortgage
held by Bennett on terms no less favorable than the Bennett Loan. The financing
commitment is subject to customary conditions, including negotiation of
definitive loan agreements and no material adverse changes in Mountaineer's
business prior to closing. In connection with the financing commitment, the
Company paid a $110,000 commitment fee and issued the lender additional warrants
to purchase 350,000 shares of Common Stock at $1.06 per share.
If the Company is able to close such financing, the loan terms provide
that the lender would be secured by a first priority deed of trust, a first
priority lien and security interest on Mountaineer's real and personal property,
and a guarantee of the Company, an assignment of leases and rents and a pledge
of the stock of Mountaineer owned by the Company, plus annual fees and warrants
as reduced by the amount of principal repaid. An initial financing facility fee
of $888,000 would be payable upon closing along with 550,000 shares of the
Company's Common Stock and warrants to purchase 1,632,140 shares at $1.06 per
share. The note evidencing the loan would provide for monthly payments of
interest
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only at the rate of 12% per annum. Principal would be payable at the end of a
three year term, during which period the loan would be subject to, on each
anniversary date, additional financing facility fees of cash equal to 8% of the
outstanding principal balance, 550,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock and
warrants to purchase an additional 550,000 shares at $1.06 per share. The loan
proceeds would be used to pay the initial financing facility fee and to repay
the Bennett Loan. The fair value of such common shares issued will be charged to
operations and, accordingly, will have a material impact on the Company's
statements of operations. The Company is interested in finding a lender which
can offer superior terms to those provided by the loan commitment; however, the
lender has a right of first refusal entitling the lender to match the basic
terms of the commitment within 30 days of the receipt of another offer. While
management is vigorously pursuing alternative financing, there can be no
assurances that such financing will be obtained on terms acceptable to
management or within sufficient time for the Company to meet its ongoing
obligations.
Alternative Mortgage Financing
The Company is continuing to seek alternative mortgage financing from a
number of prospective lenders on more favorable terms and with longer
amortization periods than those currently in place. The Company believes that
its recent increases in revenues, reductions in accounts payable from proceeds
of the Term Loan and improvements in the facilities of Mountaineer Park will
permit the Company to obtain permanent financing on satisfactory terms. If such
a facility is offered, the Company will avail itself of the early repayment
clauses of its existing loan agreements. There are no assurances that such
alternative financing will be obtained on terms acceptable to the Company or
within sufficient time to meet its ongoing obligations.
The Company intends to further expand its physical renovation of
Mountaineer Park in preparation for its marketing as a comprehensive destination
resort centered around extensive video gaming operations. Significant increases
in revenues were provided by Mountaineer Park's expanded gaming operations after
the introduction of 400 additional VLTs in July 1995 and the subsequent
expansion of the Lodge-based Speakeasy Gaming Saloon in December 1995. This
trend has continued since the introduction of video slots gaming in July 1996.
Management anticipates further increases in the number of VLTs within the next
year and replace older VLTs as leases lapse, subject to evidence that the
existing VLTs are utilized fully, so that by fall of 1997, the Company expects
to operate 1,000 VLTs with slot games. Mountaineer's revenue streams have
historically exhibited seasonal peaks in the summer months with declining
patronage in the winter months. Management believes that the emergence of video
gaming as its dominant profit center will reduce the severity of these seasonal
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fluctuations in revenue; however, there can be no assurances that this trend
will be appreciably altered.
During the six months ended June 30, 1996, the Company invested
$593,000 for redevelopment of its properties at Mountaineer Park. The Company
borrowed $1,100,000 under short term borrowing arrangements to service its
working capital requirements in the first half of 1996, and paid $1,076,000 in
short term and long-term principal during the same period.
BUSINESS
MOUNTAINEER RACE TRACK & GAMING RESORT
Racetrack Facilities
Mountaineer Park offers horse racing before expansive clubhouse and
grandstand viewing areas with enclosed seating for year-round racing. The track
also conducts simulcast thoroughbred and greyhound racing from other prominent
racetracks. Mountaineer's main racetrack consists of an oval dirt track
approximately one mile in length. Inside the main track is a natural turf
(grass) track measuring seven furlongs or 7/8 of a mile. The racetrack is
equipped with two chutes for races of lengths from 4 1/2 furlongs to over one
mile. The racetrack buildings consist of the clubhouse and grandstand which
provide glass-enclosed stadium and box seating for approximately 770 and 2,850
patrons, respectively. The buildings are each three-stories and are connected by
an enclosed walkway. Live and simulcast racing can be viewed by approximately
1,200 dining patrons in two restaurants located in the clubhouse and grandstand.
In addition to seating areas, the grandstand covers approximately 57,000 square
feet of interior space on the main and mezzanine levels containing 42 parimutuel
windows and four food and beverage concession stands. The clubhouse covers
approximately 25,000 square feet of interior space containing 22 parimutuel
windows. The grandstand has an indoor stage with a seating capacity of
approximately 2,240, and has been the site of several nationally televised
boxing matches. The racetrack apron, which is accessible from both buildings,
provides racing fans with up-close viewing of horses entering the racetrack and
crossing the finish line. The stable area accommodates approximately 1,250
horses and is located adjacent to the main track. None of the horses are owned
by Mountaineer or the Company, however, Mountaineer leases stable space to horse
owners whose horses race at Mountaineer Park. Mountaineer Park's racetrack
parking lots have a combined capacity for over 2,900 vehicles.
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Lodge Facilities
The Lodge is a two-story facility which overlooks the golf course at
Mountaineer's main entrance on West Virginia State Route 2. The Lodge offers 101
rooms, including 50 standard rooms (one double bed), 46 superior rooms (two
double beds), and five king rooms and suites. The Mountaineer Lodge Dining Room
seats 125 patrons for casual dining overlooking the golf course. In 1995, in
response to increased patronage of the off-track betting, video lottery gaming,
dining and bar facilities located at the Lodge, the Company expanded its 5,000
square foot Speakeasy Gaming Saloon with an 8,000 square foot addition. Capacity
of the Speakeasy Gaming Saloon now stands at 750. Extensive off-track wagering
facilities continue to be maintained at the Speakeasy Gaming Saloon. Lodge
parking lots have a combined capacity for approximately 370 vehicles.
Video Lottery Facilities
In addition to live and simulcast parimutuel wagering, Mountaineer
offers video lottery gaming through 800 VLTs located in the racetrack clubhouse,
grandstand and the Lodge. Mountaineer introduced 400 new state-of-the-art VLTs
in September 1994, replacing 165 older machines operated since the Company's
Acquisition of Mountaineer in December 1992, and subsequently placed an
additional 400 VLTs into operation in June 1995. The racetrack houses 400 of the
VLTs in its Riverside Gaming Terrace on the second floors of the clubhouse and
grandstand, and the Lodge offers the remaining 400 VLTs in the Speakeasy Gaming
Saloon, Derby Room and Iron Horse Lounge. Unlike the replaced machines, each of
the new VLTs allows a player to select from several game themes, including up to
four versions of draw poker, five versions of slot machine themes, one version
of blackjack and two versions of keno, as well as permitting the player to
determine which cards to hold while playing draw poker. The Company is currently
authorized to install up to 200 more VLTs which it intends to install sometime
within the fiscal year ending December 31, 1997, subject to evidence that the
Company's current VLTs are utilized at full capacity.
Recreational Facilities
Mountaineer offers a par three nine-hole "executive" golf course, three
tennis courts, a volleyball court, a basketball court, two swimming pools and
two children's swimming pools. These facilities are made available for use by
Lodge guests and the general public at specified daily or seasonal fee rates.
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Trailer Park
Located across West Virginia State Route 2 from the Lodge and the
entrance to Mountaineer Park, the Company maintains a trailer park consisting of
61 individual lots of approximately 11.5 acres. The lots are rented for fixed
monthly fees, mostly to individuals who are employed by Mountaineer in racing
operations. The Company is responsible for maintenance of the road and grounds,
refuse removal and providing water and sewage hook-ups. The tenants pay all
utility expenses.
Undeveloped Land
Mountaineer owns, as part of its 606 acre site, a 375 acre tract that
is currently undeveloped. The acreage is located directly across West Virginia
State Route 2 from the Lodge and racetrack main entrance. Management currently
has no plans for development of such property.
Current Operations
The Company's operating revenues at Mountaineer Park are derived
principally from its racing and video lottery operations, and, to a lesser
extent, its Lodge, food and beverage operations. Additional revenues are
generated from greens fees and other recreational facilities fees.
Racing Operations
The Company is subject to annual licensing requirements established by
the West Virginia Racing Commission. The Company's license was renewed in
December 1995, through December 1996.
The Company's revenue from racing operations is derived mainly from
commissions earned on parimutuel wagering on live races held at Mountaineer Park
and on races conducted at other "host" racetracks and broadcast live (i.e.,
import simulcast) at Mountaineer Park. In parimutuel wagering, patrons bet
against each other rather than against the operator of the facility or with
pre-set odds. The dollars wagered form a pool of funds from which winnings are
paid based on odds determined solely by the wagering activity. The racetrack
acts as a stakeholder for the wagering patrons and deducts from the amounts
wagered a "take-out" or gross commission, from which the racetrack pays state
and county taxes and racing purses. The Company's parimutuel commission rates
are fixed as a percentage of the total handle or amounts wagered. With respect
to Mountaineer Park's live racing operations, such percentage is fixed by West
Virginia law at three levels, 17.25%, 19% and 25%, depending on the complexity
of the wager. The lower rate applies to wagering pools involving only win, place
and show wagers while the higher rates apply to pools involving wagers on
specified multiple events, such as trifecta, quinella and perfecta
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wagers. With respect to simulcast racing operations, the Company generally has
opted to apply the commission rates imposed by the jurisdictions of the host
racetracks, as it may do with the consent of the Racing Commission. Such rates
vary with each jurisdiction and may be more or less favorable than the live
racing commission rates. Out of its gross commissions, the Company is required
to distribute fixed percentages to its fund for the payment of regular purses
(the "regular purse fund"), the state of West Virginia and Hancock County and,
with respect to commissions derived from simulcast operations, Mountaineer's
employee pension plan. After deducting state and county taxes and, with respect
to simulcast commission, simulcast fees and expenses and employee pension plan
contributions, approximately one-half of the remainder of the commissions are
payable to the regular purse fund.
Mountaineer also receives the "breakage," which is the odd cents by
which the amounts payable on each dollar wagered in a parimutuel pool exceeds a
multiple of ten cents. Breakage from simulcast wagers is generally allocated
proportionately between the host racetrack and Mountaineer on the basis of the
amounts wagered at their respective facilities.
Video Lottery Operations
The Company is subject to annual licensing requirements established by
the West Virginia Lottery Commission. The Company's license was renewed in July
1996 for a period of one year.
The Company derives revenue from the operation of video lottery games
in the form of net win on the gross terminal income, or the total cash deposited
into a VLT less the value of credits cleared for winning redemption tickets.
Pursuant to the Lottery Act, the Company's commission is fixed at 47% of the net
win after deducting an administration fee of up to 4% of gross terminal revenues
first paid to the state of West Virginia.
The VLTs are leased under a master lease agreement which requires the
Company to insure the machines for their full replacement value, pay any taxes,
insurance and maintenance expenses and, upon the expiration of the lease, allows
the Company to purchase the VLTs at fair market value. Monthly payments for the
first 400 VLTs were $72,378 from September 1994 through December 1995, and
monthly payments for the second 400 VLTs were free of rent for the first six
months after installation in late June 1995. The master lease agreement provides
that the Company may exercise an option to purchase the VLTs at the end of the
lease term for a nominal sum. The Company accrued monthly lease expenses of
$70,743 during the deferral period of July through December 1995. On March 26,
1996, the master lease agreement was amended to reflect a new monthly
consolidated payment schedule as follows: (i) $0 in December 1995, January 1996
and February 1996, (ii) $119,471 in March and April 1996, (iii) $183,176 from
May through
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October 1996, and (iv) $119,471 from November 1996 through January 1999. In
addition, the Company is obligated to make interest payments from March through
October 1996 at the rate of 15% of the past due periodic rental payments under
the master lease agreement, representing a total interest obligation of $26,278.
In 1995, the Lottery Commission approved the linking of VLTs to enhance
the amount that could be won on any single play of any single terminal within
the linked group. The Lottery Commission also approved nominal payout
percentages for this gaming option, commonly referred to as "progressives," of
up to 95%. The Company expects to link approximately one-half of its VLTs into
several progressive playing groups located in the Riverside Gaming Terrace at
the racetrack and the Speakeasy Gaming Saloon at the Lodge. The Company's
supplier is actively working on the development of progressive gaming software
for the Company's existing VLTs. Management's target date for implementation of
progressive gaming play is the first quarter of 1997, although there can be no
assurance that progressive games will be successfully implemented by that date
or at all.
In March 1996, the West Virginia legislature approved the usage of
video game themes depicting symbols on reels, commonly referred to as "line
games" or "slot games."
On July 3, 1996, Mountaineer installed slot games on the first 350 of
its 800 VLTs. The new games, which were introduced for the first time in June
1996 pursuant to the new legislation, included Double Diamond, a classic casino
slot game with cherries, bars and the like that "spin" on video reels, and the
internationally popular Black Rhino game. These new games are offered in
addition to blackjack, poker and keno. Management intends to replace older VLTs
that cannot accommodate the new games as leases lapse and subject to evidence
that the Company's 800 VLTs currently in place are utilized fully, the Company
intends to install an additional 200 VLTs, so that by the end of 1997,
Mountaineer Park expects to operate 1,000 VLTs with slot games.
Management of Video Lottery Operations
Pursuant to the Bennett Loan Agreement, American Gaming &
Entertainment, Ltd. ("AGEL," formerly named Gamma International, Ltd.) was
engaged by the Company pursuant to a June 2, 1994 management agreement (the
"Management Agreement") to provide management services for video lottery and
other gaming activities at Mountaineer Park permitted under West Virginia law,
other than its parimutuel horse racing operations (the "Permitted Activities").
The Company was required to enter this Management Agreement with AGEL as a
condition to the loan initiated by Bennett. Under the Management Agreement, AGEL
was entitled to receive a management fee of 3% of the gross revenues of the
Permitted Activities after a 4% administrative fee. In addition,
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AGEL was entitled to receive 8% of the earnings before interest, taxes,
depreciation and amortization of all businesses conducted at or, in the case of
off-track betting, generated as a result of the operations at Mountaineer,
including the Permitted Activities and all parimutuel horse racing operations.
The Company's Management Agreement with AGEL was suspended pursuant to
a Stay Agreement effective June 30, 1995 until such time as Bennett, the
Company's construction loan lender, complied with certain requirements of the
Lottery Commission. For the six months ended June 30, 1995, the Company paid
AGEL $198,000, however, no additional payments were made after June 30, 1995. As
of June 30, 1995, the Company and AGEL entered a settlement agreement staying
the Management Agreement. Simultaneously, American Newco entered into a
Consulting Agreement with Mountaineer to provide consulting services in
connection with Mountaineer's video lottery operations at the rate of $10,000
per month, subject to increases of up to $10,000 per month for possible
additional services to be provided through March 17, 1997. Fees under this
Consulting Agreement which are substantially less than those which would have
been paid under the original Management Agreement. The agreements provide that
if the Stay Agreement or the Consulting Agreement are terminated in accordance
with certain specified contingencies, the Management Agreement will also
terminate. However, the agreements also provided that if Bennett should fulfill
certain requirements of the Lottery Commission and declare no later than January
1, 1996 that it will continue as lender to Mountaineer on a permanent basis, the
Management Agreement will be reinstated prospectively and the Consulting
Agreement will terminate. Notwithstanding such agreements, the Company has
reached an agreement with AGEL as of September 19, 1996 acknowledging the
effectiveness of the June 30, 1995 settlement agreement and thereby terminating
the Management Agreement. Such agreement may, however, be subject to approval by
the bankruptcy court of the Amendment to the Bennett Loan Agreement dated
September 19, 1996. Nonetheless, management believes that even without such
bankruptcy court approval, the Management Agreement may be terminated without
any liability to the Company.
The personal involvement of the two stockholders of American Newco,
Inc. in the consulting activities is a material element of the Consulting
Agreement. Such personal involvement had not been provided since October 15,
1995, and on May 10, 1996, Management provided American Newco and AGEL with
formal notice of termination of the consulting agreement. As a result, no
consulting fees have accrued since that time. On May 14, 1996, the Company
received written notice from a representative of AGEL demanding payment under
the Management Agreement although Management believes there are sufficient
grounds to terminate the Consulting and Management Agreements without additional
liability to the Company, there can be no assurance that such terminations will
not be successfully
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challenged or that the Company will not incur additional liability in connection
with the agreements.
On March 28, 1996 the Commission filed suit against The Bennett Funding
Corporation, the parent of Bennett and an affiliate of a major stockholder of
AGEL, seeking a financial judgment and civil penalties for actions that are
unrelated to Bennett's lending activities to Mountaineer. Also named in the suit
was Patrick Bennett, Chief Executive Officer of Bennett, the Company's
construction lender. Management does not believe that these recent developments
will have a material negative impact on the Company's licenses or financing
efforts.
Racetrack, Food and Beverage Operations
The clubhouse restaurant is open a minimum of 220 days annually on live
race days, and offers seating for 650 customers with full lunch and dinner menus
and a private buffet. Clubhouse customers include racing fans, local residents
and private social groups. Beverages and cocktails are also available in the
clubhouse at the Riverside Gaming Terrace bar, which services video lottery
players, as well as racing fans. The grandstand's Man O' War restaurant offers a
buffet primarily for bus and riverboat excursion tours and charter groups and is
open approximately 140 days annually. Renovation and expansion were completed in
March 1995 increasing dining capacity of the Man O' War from 230 to 550. Closed
circuit television monitors displaying Mountaineer's live and simulcast races
are provided at every table in both the Clubhouse and Man O' War Restaurants for
the convenience of racing fans. The racetrack food and beverage facilities are
intended to complement the entertainment experience for racing fans and video
lottery players and, therefore, are designed to offer familiar menus with
moderate pricing in a comfortable atmosphere.
Mountaineer Lodge customers principally include local residents and
business travelers visiting nearby steel plants and other businesses on week
days, with a larger number of recreational customers and persons from non-local
markets on weekends. Lodge facilities also include the Mountaineer Lodge Dining
Room, which seats 125 patrons for casual dining overlooking the golf course.
Food and beverages are also available at the Lodge in the Speakeasy Gaming
Saloon and the Iron Horse Lounge. Table and barstool seating is available in the
Speakeasy Gaming Saloon and the Iron Horse Lounge for the video lottery gaming
and off-track wagering patrons accommodated there. The Lodge and its food and
beverage operations are operated in combination with its entertainment
facilities and is utilized principally to increase racing attendance and video
lottery play. Accordingly, the Company maintains inexpensive room rates.
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Improvement Plan And Expanded Operations
Since its acquisition of Mountaineer in December 1992, the Company has
been engaged in an ongoing effort to renovate and, more recently, enhance and
expand Mountaineer Park, which was first opened in 1951. Prior to West
Virginia's adoption of the Lottery Act in March 1994, the Company completed
certain renovations necessary to maintain the clubhouse and lower grandstand
areas, including upgrades to the plumbing and electrical systems, the
installation of new furniture and furnishings and the redesign of the grandstand
parimutuel (wagering) windows. These improvements were made during 1993.
In 1993, the Company commenced its capital improvement program,
designed to upgrade and expand Mountaineer Park's existing facilities to a level
which would allow its marketing as a more upscale gaming, racing, and
recreational destination resort.
In 1994 and 1995, the Company invested $8.9 million in building
improvements, furnishings, fixtures and equipment suitable for large scale
gaming activities in its race track grandstand and clubhouse, and an additional
$591,000 to convert a portion of existing lodge space to gaming areas. In
response to increased patronage at its Lodge gaming areas, the Company embarked
upon an 8,000 square foot expansion of the Lodge video lottery facilities in
1995.
Mountaineer has expanded its off-track betting facilities in both the
racetrack and Lodge locations. In 1994 and 1995, the Company invested $1.9
million in two track-side restaurants offering seating for 1,200 racing patrons,
with new 13-inch television monitors located at each table, and a total of 32
overhead monitors with 40-inch screens. A simulcast control center is located in
the clubhouse restaurant, which also offers video and graphic overlay
capabilities. This system enables the Company to promote upcoming events and
Mountaineer's other entertainment facilities, in addition to the day's live and
off-track racing schedule. In 1995, the Company completed the renovation of the
Lodge off-track betting facility, offering seating for 198 patrons in the
Speakeasy Gaming Saloon. The Lodge simulcasting facility is served by 24 40-inch
television monitors, as well as a 15-foot projection screen. The Company
currently has available 64 mutuel windows in the racetrack facility and six
windows in the Speakeasy Gaming Saloon, to be supplemented by self-activated
portable betting terminals in 1996 and beyond.
The Company also created a boxing arena and entertainment stage, which
it has integrated into the grandstand seating. The stage is an integral
component of the Company's efforts to expand Mountaineer Park's customer base by
offering new, complementary forms of entertainment. Mountaineer has hosted six
boxing events since December 1994, including nationally televised bouts on ESPN
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and USA Cable. Mountaineer paid fixed fees and provided certain lodging at no
charge to the event promoters. Mountaineer retained all proceeds from ticket
sales, food and beverage sales and program sales. Management intends to engage
in similar events to increase public awareness and to thereby help to increase
future attendance at Mountaineer Park.
The Lodge lobby and reception area were renovated in 1994, followed by
restoration of 41 guest rooms damaged by fire and a general renovation and
upgrade of the 60 remaining guest rooms and common areas in 1995.
Remaining components of the improvements plan scheduled for completion
in 1996 consist of enhancements to the Speakeasy Gaming Saloon, parking lot
expansion and general paving. The cost of these improvements is not expected to
exceed $1.5 million.
Business Strategy
The Company's business strategy is to increase revenues in all areas of
operations through the promotion and expansion of its video lottery business and
the enhancement of its racing and entertainment facilities.
Develop and Market Mountaineer Park as a Diversified
Entertainment Facility
The Company believes that the Mountaineer Park racetrack facility has
not performed up to its potential in the past because it was utilized primarily
to conduct parimutuel racing, thereby limiting the facility's customer base and
under-utilizing its sizable infrastructure during non-racing times. The
expansion of video lottery operations and the introduction of bingo for local
senior citizen groups and simulcast boxing events at Mountaineer Park have begun
to remedy these deficiencies. Management believes that the addition of such
improvements and programs to those already completed, will provide the right
product mix to attract an increasing number of visitors and more efficiently use
Mountaineer's facilities during non-racing times. It is anticipated that the
resulting benefits will be shared by parimutuel, as well as by video lottery and
other entertainment operations, since patrons who traditionally do not visit
horse racetracks may be, once at Mountaineer, more inclined to wager on racing.
In addition, because a significant percentage of revenues from video lottery
operations must be contributed to the racing purse fund, as video lottery
revenues increase, so will the size of purses. Management believes that this
will have the effect of attracting better quality racehorses, further enhancing
Mountaineer Park's appeal to traditional horse racing fans who largely generate
the Company's parimutuel revenues.
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Expand Video Lottery Operations
The Company intends to expand its video lottery operations by
installing an additional 200 VLTs, which were authorized by the Lottery
Commission in 1995, to replace existing VLTs as leases lapse during the first
quarter of 1997, subject to evidence that the Company's 800 VLTs currently in
place are utilized fully. By the fall of 1997, the Company expects to operate
1,000 VLTs with slot games. The Company believes that its video lottery revenues
will continue to increase with the installation of new machines, the
implementation of progressive and video slot games, and the implementation of
its expanded marketing plan. With its current involvement in video lottery
gaming and parimutuel racing, its substantial infrastructure and grounds, and
the attractive location of its facility, management believes that Mountaineer is
positioned to take advantage of any future forms of gaming which may be
legalized in West Virginia. There can be no assurances, however, that the state
of West Virginia will authorize additional gaming activities or that, if
authorized, the Company would be licensed.
Relocate Off-Track Wagering
The Company recently relocated its primary simulcasting operations to
the Speakeasy Gaming Saloon at the Lodge. Management believes that by exposing
video lottery patrons to simulcast and live racing, new racing fans can be
developed, thereby increasing parimutuel operations. The expanded clubhouse
simulcast facilities are also expected to create additional excitement and
increase the level of activity at the racetrack on live race days.
Improve Live Racing Product and Commence Export Simulcasting
Outside Hub Area
The Company's ability to attract attendance at Mountaineer and wagering
on its live races is dependent, in part, upon the quality of the horses racing
at Mountaineer. Horse races at racetracks competing with Mountaineer, and at the
racetracks from which Mountaineer receives import simulcasts, have often been of
higher quality than Mountaineer's horse races, thereby attracting a larger
volume of wagering and higher average wagers than at Mountaineer Park. Beginning
in October 1994, Mountaineer has been able to attract better quality horses by
paying incrementally higher purses. The increased purses reflect an increase in
the minimum daily purses guaranteed pursuant to the Company's agreement with the
horsemen's association, a non-union entity which represents the jockeys in their
dealings with Mountaineer. Management's ability to increase further the size of
purses will depend on increased video lottery operations and, to a lesser
extent, expanded simulcast racing operations. The Company anticipates that it
will be able to continue increasing purse sizes to levels attractive to owners
of mid-level quality or better racehorses.
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Management has sponsored several stakes races in 1996, with purses of
up to $20,000 per race. In September 1995, Mountaineer sponsored the West
Virginia Breeders' Classics stakes races, with purses totaling $330,000 funded
by state-wide video lottery tax revenue. Mountaineer broadcast certain of these
to a number of other racetracks around the country, and intends to simulcast its
regular card of live races within the next year. Wagering handles from
participating racetracks are commingled with Mountaineer's on-site wagering
handle when it exports its simulcast signal.
Commence Export Simulcasting Outside Hub Area
Export simulcasting is a highly desirable source of revenue because the
direct costs associated with such operations are relatively low. The Company
believes that the higher average purses anticipated from video lottery
contributions will improve the quality of races to other racetracks, off-track
betting facilities, casinos and other gaming establishments once it has
completed its improvement plan. In order to make its races more attractive to
simulcast outlets, the Company anticipates that it will experiment with
different post times, possibly adopting more evening racing days which are
preferable because they do not compete with live racing conducted by host
tracks. Although the Company intends to pursue export simulcasting possibilities
vigorously, there can be no assurance that such opportunities will prove
realistic or that the Company will be successful in its pursuit of such
business.
Increasing Import Simulcasting
The Company intends to increase the number and quality of races it
makes available for wagering by simulcasting additional out-of-state races.
Although Management does not anticipate that it will increase the number of
import signals it can receive simultaneously, it will increase the number of
races displayed with each available signal. In May 1995, Mountaineer introduced
simulcasts of off-track greyhound racing, and has since offered thoroughbred
and/or greyhound import simulcasting seven days per week. Because operating
expenses associated with simulcast racing are generally lower than those
associated with live racing, Management believes that increases in the levels of
simulcast wagering would result in greater operating profits than similar
increases in live racing levels.
Marketing
Mountaineer's primary market includes four million persons of gaming
age who reside within a one-hour drive, or approximately 50 miles, of the
facility including the population centers of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania,
Youngstown/Warren and Akron/Canton, Ohio, and Wheeling, West Virginia. A
secondary market of 3.4 million
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persons of gaming age reside within a two-hour drive, including Cleveland, Ohio
and Morgantown, West Virginia. Both markets have an average household income of
approximately $26,000.
The Company has adopted and is in the process of implementing a
comprehensive marketing program to capitalize on Mountaineer Park's recently
expanded gaming facilities to create a larger and more loyal customer base. The
program includes (i) the Players Club, a player rating and tracking system
designed to reward qualified play through the issuance of reward certificates
which are redeemable for food and beverages, merchandise and other services,
(ii) entertainment programming featuring boxing and other special events, (iii)
attractive food and beverage pricing, (iv) comprehensive advertising, and (v) a
bus program. Some features of the program are subject to approval by the Lottery
Commission. Prior to the formulation of the new marketing program, the Company's
marketing efforts consisted of limited television, radio and print advertising
and promotional events tied to major holidays or horse racing events.
Competition
Mountaineer's principal direct competitors are Wheeling Downs, located
approximately 40 miles to the south in Wheeling, West Virginia and Thistledown,
located approximately 85 miles to the northwest in Cleveland, Ohio. Wheeling
Downs conducts parimutuel greyhound dog racing and video lottery gaming.
Thistledown conducts parimutuel thoroughbred horse racing but not video lottery.
Other than Wheeling Downs and Thistledown, there are currently no facilities
offering competitive parimutuel live thoroughbred or video lottery gaming within
a 100-mile radius of Mountaineer Park. As a result, although there are
facilities located more than 100 miles away, Management does not believe that
such other facilities compete with Mountaineer Park for a significant segment of
its target customer base (although they do compete to some extent for quality
racehorses). In addition, none of those facilities, all of which are located in
Pennsylvania and Ohio, are currently licensed to offer video lottery gaming.
Moreover, the one facility in West Virginia, other than Mountaineer and Wheeling
Downs, offering video lottery, is located in the central part of the state and,
as a result, Management believes it does not compete to any significant extent
with Mountaineer Park for customers. In addition, one other well-known resort
located downstate, has sought legislative approval to operate a land-based
casino. The Company also competes with statewide lotteries in West Virginia,
Pennsylvania and Ohio, on site and off-track wagering in Pennsylvania and other
entertainment options available to consumers, including live and televised
professional and collegiate major sports events. The Company will also compete
with off-track wagering in Ohio, which was approved in 1996.
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The Company is attempting to attract patrons by promoting Mountaineer
Park as a complete entertainment complex and destination resort offering a
unique combination of quality racing, video lottery wagering, dining, special
events and other entertainment options, all in a physically attractive setting
which is easily accessed with ample on-site parking. To the extent that
Pennsylvania or Ohio legalize any forms of casino gaming, the Company's video
lottery operations will compete with new gaming facilities located within
driving distances from Mountaineer's geographic market. Such facilities may
offer more gaming machines than Mountaineer as well as forms of gaming not
available in West Virginia.
Employees
As of October 14, 1996, Mountaineer had approximately 478 full-time
employees and 25 part-time employees, of whom approximately 70 were represented
by a labor union under a collective bargaining agreement. The union representing
mutuel clerks at the race track, has been expanded in recent years to cover
certain employees providing off-track betting services at the Lodge. In
September 1996, additional employees voted to consider expanding the union to
make approximately an additional 200 employees union members. Based on the
information available to the Company, the Company believes that the vote on the
proposal to expand the union coverage was 72 against and 60 for, with 87 votes
challenged. The Company is unable to predict the ultimate outcome of this vote.
As of October 14, 1996, the Company also employed one person, at its current
corporate offices in Laguna Beach, California. The Company believes that its
employee relations are good, however, there can no assurance that if such
expansion of the union is approved, the Company's employee relations will remain
on the same terms as in the past.
Regulation And Licensing
Racing
The Company's horse racing operations are subject to extensive
regulation by the Racing Commission, which is responsible for, among other
things, granting annual licenses to conduct race meets, approving simulcasting
post times, and other matters. When granting licenses, the Racing Commission has
the authority to determine the dates on which Mountaineer may conduct races. In
order to conduct simulcast racing, Mountaineer is required under West Virginia
law to hold a minimum of 220 live race days each year. Mountaineer was granted a
license to conduct 220 live race days for 1996.
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West Virginia law requires that at least 80% of Mountaineer's employees
must be citizens and residents of West Virginia and must have been such for at
least one year. In addition, certain activities, such as simulcasting races,
require the consent of the representatives of a majority of the horse owners and
trainers at Mountaineer Park.
Mountaineer's revenues from live racing operations are derived
substantially from its parimutuel commissions, which are fixed by the State of
West Virginia as percentages of Mountaineer's wagering handles. The West
Virginia legislature could change these percentages at any time, although the
Company is not aware of any current proposal to do so.
The Company's simulcast activities that occur outside of West Virginia
could be subject to regulation of other state racing commissions, as well as the
provisions of the Federal Interstate Horse Racing Act of 1978, which prohibits
Mountaineer from accepting off-track wagering on simulcast racing without the
approval of the Racing Commission and, subject to certain exceptions, of any
other currently operating track within 60 miles, or if none, of the closest
track in any adjoining state.
Video Lottery
The operation of video lottery games in West Virginia is subject to the
Lottery Act. Licensing and regulatory control is provided by the Lottery
Commission.
Prior to the adoption of the Lottery Act in March 1994, the Company
conducted video lottery gaming pursuant to an agreement with the Lottery
Commission which authorized the Company to operate video lottery machines at the
racetrack and Lodge as part of a video lottery pilot project. Under the terms of
the agreement, the Company retained ownership or control of the video lottery
machines and other equipment it provided for use in video lottery gaming. In
March 1993, the Attorney General of West Virginia issued an opinion that, under
the West Virginia Constitution, video lottery machines could not be privately
owned. As a result of the Attorney General's opinion, the Company was unable to
renew its agreement with the Lottery Commission, which was scheduled to expire
in June 1993. In October 1993, the Supreme Court of West Virginia found that the
legislature had not adequately defined and authorized video lottery gaming and,
as a result, the Lottery Commission's authorization of video lottery gaming at
Mountaineer was invalid. The court's order was to become effective in late
November 1993, at which time video lottery gaming at Mountaineer would have had
to terminate. However, the court stayed its order pending consideration and
passage of satisfactory video lottery legislation. The subsequent adoption of
the Lottery Act has not been contested in or otherwise addressed by the court or
any other West Virginia court.
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Under the Lottery Act, only parimutuel horse or dog racing facilities
that were licensed by the Racing Commission prior to January 1, 1994 and that
conduct at least 220 live racing dates for each dog or horse race meeting, or
such other number as may be approved by the Racing Commission, are eligible for
licensure to operate video lottery games. There are four racing facilities in
West Virginia (two horse racing and two dog racing) including Mountaineer Park,
three of which satisfy the eligibility requirements of 1995. The conduct of
video lottery gaming by a racing facility is subject to the approval of the
voters of the county in which the facility is located. If such approval is
obtained, the facilities may continue to conduct racing activities unless the
matter is resubmitted to the voters pursuant to a petition by at least 5% of the
registered voters, who must wait at least five years to bring such a petition.
If approval is denied, another election on the issue may not be held for a
period of two years. Video lottery gaming was approved in Hancock County, the
location of Mountaineer Park, on May 10, 1994.
In order to qualify as a "video lottery game," as the term is defined
under the Lottery Act, a game must, among other things, be a game of chance
which utilizes an interactive electronic terminal device allowing input by an
individual player. Such a game may not be based on any of the following game
themes: roulette, dice, or baccarat card games. Moreover, video lottery machines
must meet strict hardware and software specifications, including minimum and
maximum pay-out requirements, and must be connected to the Lottery Commission's
central control computer by an on-line or dial-up communication system. Only
machines registered with and approved by the Lottery Commission may offer video
lottery games.
Under the Lottery Act, racetracks that conduct video lottery gaming, as
well as persons who service and repair video lottery machines and validation
managers (persons who perform video lottery ticket redemption services) are
required to be licensed by the Lottery Commission. The licensing application
procedures are extensive and include inquiries into and an evaluation of the
character, background (including criminal record, reputation and associations)
and business ability and experience of an applicant and the adequacy and source
of the applicant's financing arrangements. In addition, a racetrack applicant
must hold a valid racing license, have an agreement regarding video lottery
revenues with the representatives of a majority of the horsemen, the parimutuel
clerks and the breeders for the racetrack and post a bond or irrevocable letter
of credit in such amount as the Lottery Commission shall determine. Finally, no
license will be granted until the Lottery Commission determines that each person
who has "control" of an applicant meets all of the applicable licensing
qualifications. Persons deemed to have control of a corporate applicant include:
(i) any holding or parent company or subsidiary of the applicant who has the
ability to elect a majority of the applicant's board of directors or to
otherwise control the
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activities of the applicant; and (ii) key personnel of an applicant, including
any executive officer, employee or agent, who has the power to exercise
significant influence over decisions concerning any part of the applicant's
business operations. The Company's license application was approved by the
Lottery Commission in June 1995. From March 1994 until such approval, the
Company conducted video lottery gaming under a provision of the Lottery Act that
permitted any racetrack authorized by the Lottery Commission to conduct video
lottery gaming prior to November 1, 1993 to continue to do so for a limited time
without additional licensure.
Prior to Mountaineer Park's loan with Bennett, the Lottery Commission
approved the Company's license in September, 1994. During the relicensing
proceedings prior to July 1, 1995, the Lottery Commission required Bennett to
submit audited financial statements, based on the combined effect of Bennett's
stock ownership in the Company, its security interest pursuant to the deed of
trust in connection with the Bennett Loan, and the fact that AGEL, Bennett's
affiliate, performed management services for the Company. These factors have
required the Company to seek Lottery Commission approval of Bennett. Although
Bennett failed to initially provide information required by the Lottery
Commission, the Lottery Commission relicensed Mountaineer in June, 1995, after
which time Bennett supplied the requisite information. During the relicensing
proceedings in June 1996, the Lottery Commission released a letter opinion on
May 9, 1996 to the effect that because Bennett had the right to vote less than
5% of the outstanding stock of Winners Entertainment, Inc., the Company's
previous name, and AGEL, an affiliate of Bennett, was no longer providing
management services, Bennett could not influence or control Mountaineer's
business, and thus, Lottery Commission approval was not required. Accordingly,
no Lottery Commission approval of Bennett was required in 1996.
Mountaineer is currently attempting to refinance its loan with Bennett.
Assuming the Lottery Commission does not change its current position, if no new
lender acquires the right to vote more than 5% of the voting stock and does not
obtain the right to take an active role in the affairs of Mountaineer, no
Lottery Commission approval will be required. While the Company has no reason to
believe that its license is in jeopardy as a result of either loan, a change of
policy by the Lottery Commission could affect Mountaineer's license and thus
adversely affect the business.
Licenses granted by the Lottery Commission must be renewed on July 1 of
each year. A license to operate video lottery games is a privilege personal to
the license holder and, accordingly, is non-transferable. In order for a license
to remain in effect, Lottery Commission approval is required prior to any change
of ownership or control of a license holder. Unless prior approval of the
Lottery Commission is obtained, the sale of five percent or
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more of the voting stock of the license holder or any corporation that controls
the license holder or the sale of a license holder's assets (other than in the
ordinary course of business), or any interest therein, to any person not
previously determined by the Lottery Commission to have satisfied the licensing
qualifications voids the license.
Once licensed, a racetrack has the right to install and operate up to
400 video lottery machines and may operate more than 400 machines only upon
Lottery Commission approval. The Company has received approval to operate a
total of 1,000 machines.
Video Lottery machines may only be operated in the areas of the
racetrack where parimutuel wagering is permitted; provided, however, that if a
racetrack was authorized by the Lottery Commission prior to November 1, 1993 to
operate video lottery machines in another area of the racetrack's facilities,
such racetrack may continue to so as long as there is one video lottery machine
in the parimutuel wagering area for each machine located in another area of the
racetrack. Accordingly, the Company may continue to operate video lottery
machines at the Lodge, providing there are at least as many machines located at
Mountaineer's racetrack.
The Lottery Act imposes extensive operational controls relating to,
among other matters, security and supervision, access to the machines, hours of
operation, general liability insurance coverage and machine location. In
addition, the Lottery Act prohibits the extension of credit for video lottery
play and requires Lottery Commission approval before any video lottery
advertising and promotional activities are conducted. The Lottery Act provides
for criminal and civil liability in the event of specified violations.
All revenues derived from the operation of video lottery games must be
deposited with the Lottery Commission to be shared in accordance with the
provisions of the Lottery Act. Under such provisions, each racetrack must
electronically remit to the Lottery Commission its "gross terminal income"
(total cash deposited into video lottery machines less the value of credits
cleared for winning redemption tickets). To ensure the availability of such
funds to the Lottery Commission, each racetrack must maintain in its account an
amount equal to or greater than the gross terminal income to be remitted. If a
racetrack fails to maintain this balance, the Lottery Commission may disable all
of the racetrack's video lottery machines until full payment of all amounts due
is made. From the gross terminal income remitted by a licensee, the Lottery
Commission will deduct up to 4% to cover its costs of administering video
lottery at the licensee's racetrack and divide the remaining amounts as follows:
47% is returned to the racetrack, 30% is paid to the State's general revenue
fund, 15.5% is deposited in the racetrack's fund for the payment of purses, and
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the remaining 9% is divided among tourism promotion, Hancock County, the
Breeders' Classics, the Veterans Memorial Program and the Racetrack Employees
Pension Fund.
Discontinued Operations
Bartlett Field Leases - Ohio
In January 1992, the Company, through its wholly owned subsidiary,
ExCal Energy Corporation ("ExCal") acquired approximately 16,000 net developed
acres and 16,800 net undeveloped acres (held by production) of oil and gas
leases in the Bartlett Field in Southeastern Ohio from Biscayne Petroleum
Corporation, an affiliate of Edson R. Arneault, a director for the Company. The
Company agreed to provide funds to drill 40 gas wells on such properties, and in
1992, the Company attempted to raise the required capital through a public
offering. Due to the expiration of "Section 29" credits (a credit against
Federal income taxes derived from gas produced from Devonian Shale and "tight
sands" formations from wells commenced before January 1993), in December 1992,
the Company abandoned the offering. As a result, the Company recorded certain
provisions for writedown of these interests. During 1993, the Company allowed
the leases for the net undeveloped acreage to expire, and sold to third parties
approximately 2,300 of net developed acres. In December 1994, all of the
remaining leases were sold pursuant to the plan of orderly liquidation described
below.
Bartlett Field Wells - Ohio
In January 1992, ExCal acquired 77 gas wells in the Bartlett Field from
18 limited partnerships controlled by Mr. Arneault and operated by his
affiliate, Century Energy Management Company, Inc. The wells were in need of
repair and the Company planned to incur rework costs to increase production and
maximize the value of the assets. Aggregate annual gas production was 100,000 to
150,000 MCF, and Management believed that with limited rework, production could
be increased by at least 100%. In December 1994, all of the wells were sold
pursuant to the plan of orderly liquidation described below.
Marathon-Otter Lake Field - Michigan
In January 1992, ExCal acquired all the issued and outstanding shares
of Crystal Oil Company, Inc. ("Crystal"). Crystal's assets consisted of an
average 64% net revenue interest in approximately 3.4 million barrels of oil
(proved reserves) plus 34 oil and gas wells and related equipment in the
Marathon-Otter Lake Field in the State of Michigan. In 1991, the wells were
shut-in by Crystal who had undertaken no material drilling since then. In
December 1992, ExCal entered into a joint venture agreement with Fleur-David
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Corporation ("Fleur-David"), a minority stockholder of the Company, to perform
rework and remediation activities to re-establish production and provide
activities necessary for compliance with state environmental standards. ExCal
contributed its net revenue interest in the proved reserves and agreed to pay
25% of on-going costs in exchange for a 25% interest in the joint venture. For a
75% interest in the joint venture, Fleur-David agreed to provide technical
expertise and 75% of on-going costs. Fleur-David also obtained a covenant not to
sue for clean-up and abandonment costs from the state of Michigan by funding
$188,000 in an environmental escrow fund required by the state. Costs were
estimated at $2,200,000 and have included rework of wells, repairs to oil
storage tank batteries, acid treatments of producing formations, plugging,
clean-up, equipment removal, waste disposal and soil removal costs required by
the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The Company is responsible to
provide 25%, or approximately $550,000 of such costs, of which $286,000 has been
paid primarily from proceeds from the exercise of certain stock options granted
to Fleur-David by the Company, as well as cash from continuing operations.
Plan of Orderly Liquidation
On March 31, 1993, the Company's board of directors approved a formal
plan to divest its oil and gas operations over a period of two years. This
decision was based upon several factors including (i) the anticipated potential
of the Company's gaming operations and the anticipated time to be devoted to it
by Management, (ii) the expiration of "Section 29" credits, a credit against
Federal income taxes derived from gas produced from Devonian Shale and "tight
sands" formations from wells commenced before January 1993, and (iii) the impact
of delays in connection with a political controversy over video lottery in West
Virginia during 1993 which caused Management to focus the Company's efforts and
financial resources on Mountaineer. To enhance the value of the properties for
sale, the plan of orderly liquidation provided for remediation costs to address
certain environmental matters and rework and development costs to increase
future production.
During 1993, the Company began disposition of the Bartlett Field oil
and gas leases by selling to third parties or, based on certain contingencies in
the acquisition agreement, returning to their previous owners approximately
2,300 net developed acres. The Company received approximately $85,000 in
connection with the sale of the leases. The Company also allowed leases
comprising 16,800 net undeveloped acres to expire. At December 31, 1993, the
Company held net developed acreage of 13,700 acres and reserves in the Bartlett
Field of 902,200 MCF.
The plan of orderly liquidation also called for rework costs of
approximately $150,000 in connection with the Company's 77 Bartlett Field gas
wells. Because the wells were in various states
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of disrepair, the plan called for maintenance of wells, acid treatments of
producing formations and, in some cases, plugging and abandonment, all for the
purpose of increasing production and the value of such assets for ultimate sale.
In mid-1993, the Company reduced its appropriation for such rework costs to
$100,000, which was estimated to increase net cash flows from production to a
minimum of $25,000 per month. However, after completion of only $50,000 of such
rework costs, the Bartlett Field wells and remaining bartlett Field leases were
sold in December 1994 to Development & Acquisition Ventures in Energy, Inc.,
whose principal stockholder is the brother of Edson R. Arneault, Chief Executive
Officer and Director of the Company, for notes valued at approximately $426,000,
of which $150,000 (discounted to $126,000) is non-recourse, secured solely by
the assets sold. See "Certain Transactions".
At the time of the sale, the Company remained obligated on a $590,000,
9% note to the previous owners of the Bartlett Field wells. On March 31, 1995,
the note was amended to provide the Company with a credit for the current value
of 98,333 shares of the Company's Common Stock issued to the previous owners in
March 1993 in the amount of $123,000. The amendment further provided for the
$467,000 balance of the note to be paid in monthly payments of interest only at
10% from May through October 1995, with principal amortized over 36 months
thereafter with a balloon payment after 12 months on October 1, 1996. The note
was payable at the option of the Company through the issuance of Common Stock on
or before November 1, 1995 at the then market value, provided that such shares
were registered by the Company at the time of issuance. The Company paid monthly
interest payments in May and June 1995, and in October 1995, the note was
canceled in exchange for interest payments for the months of July, August and
September 1995, and 373,600 shares of the Company's Common Stock, subject to
registration rights and valued for purposes of the transaction at the then
current market value of $1.25 per share.
The Company intends to sell its sole remaining oil and gas interest in
the Marathon-Otter Lake Field, during 1996. For further discussion of
Management's plan of orderly liquidation, see "Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Results of
Discontinued Operations".
Properties
Gaming, Racing and Other Entertainment
Mountaineer Park is comprised of a thoroughbred race track and the
Lodge providing video lottery gaming, off-track wagering, dining and lounge
facilities as well as faculties for golf, swimming, tennis and other outdoor
activities covering approximately 606 acres (including 375 undeveloped acres) in
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Chester, West Virginia. The Mountaineer facility encompasses approximately 4,100
feet of frontage on the Ohio River and approximately 2,500 feet of highway
frontage straddling West Virginia State Route 2. At July 31, 1996, Mountaineer
Park was encumbered by (i) a first deed of trust in favor of Bennett Management
aggregating $10.2 million in original principal amount (current balance of $8.8
million as of September 30, 1996) and (ii) a second deed of trust in favor of
Madeleine LLC, collateralizing indebtedness aggregating $5 million in principal.
Oil and Gas
The Company's oil and gas interest constitutes a 25% joint venture in a
64% net revenue interest in proved reserves with 34 net producible wells in the
Marathon-Otter Lake field in Lapeer and Genesee Counties, Michigan. Proved
reserves are estimated at 3,314,800 BBL. For financial and other information
about the Company's oil and gas interests, see "Discontinued Operations,".
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions" and Results of
Operations - Results of Discontinued Operations," and Note 10 of the Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere in this Prospectus.
Equipment Leases
At Mountaineer Park, the Company leases 800 video lottery machines, a
totalisator system, video tape and closed circuit television systems and other
equipment required for operations. For discussion of such equipment leases, see
Note 7 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere in
this Prospectus.
Office Lease
The Company leases approximately 880 square feet of office space in
Laguna Beach, California for its corporate offices under an operating lease with
a monthly rental payment of $1,395. The lease for this office expires on October
31, 1996. On November 30, 1996, the Company plans to close this office and move
its corporate offices to Mountaineer Park.
Legal Proceedings
Settled Litigation
Jackpot Enterprises, Inc. ("Jackpot") v. Winners Entertainment, Inc.,
Circuit Court of Kanawha County, West Virginia Case No. 94-C-819. On May 13,
1994, the Company was served with a complaint in which Jackpot sought an award
of 250,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock as liquidated damages for an
alleged breach of a January 27, 1993 agreement which contemplated a joint
venture
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<PAGE>
between the parties to operate Mountaineer Park and a financing arrangement and
for alleged intentional torts in refusing to issue the stock.
The parties settled these claims on February 28, 1995. The terms of the
agreement require the Company to issue to Jackpot, and include in a registration
statement, such number of shares which, when combined with the 30,000 shares of
the Company's Common Stock previously issued to Jackpot, on the date the
registration statement becomes effective, based on the market price for the
Common Stock, will provide net proceeds of $512,500 to Jackpot. Pursuant to the
agreement, after June 30, 1996, the Company has the right to reacquire from
Jackpot at par value any shares necessary to limit Jackpot's net proceeds to
$512,500. Moreover, if the registration statement was not declared effective by
April 29, 1995, which it was not, the Company was required to issue an
additional 12,500 shares every sixty days until the effective date. In no event,
however, would the Company have been required to issue more than 250,000 shares.
Through June 30, 1996, the Company has issued 207,500 shares (excluding the
30,000 shares referred to above) of its Common Stock in accordance with terms of
the agreement.
Crystal Asset Management Group, Ltd. In July of 1994, the Company and
Crystal Asset Management Group, Ltd. ("CAM") settled all of CAM's claims arising
from a financial advisory agreement dated April 1, 1993. Under the settlement
agreement, the Company was to pay CAM $165,684 to cancel previously issued
Warrants to purchase 135,000 shares of Common Stock at $7.00 per share with
registration rights, and instead issued Warrants to purchase 145,000 shares of
Common Stock at $6.25 per share prior to December 1996 with registration rights.
An initial payment of $15,000 was made upon execution of the settlement
agreement, however, no further payments were made. On September 4, 1996, the
Company entered into an agreement, modifying the settlement agreement. The
amendment to the settlement agreement, provides for mutual releases of all
claims in exchange for the Company's payment of $90,000 in cash. The amendment
to the settlement agreement also reduced the exercise price of the previously
issued Warrants to $3.00 per share and extended the term thereof through January
15, 1998. The agreement contemplates the registration of the shares underlying
such Warrants and such Warrants are covered by this registration statement. See
"Shares Eligible for Future Sale" and "Registration Rights."
Pending Litigation
George Jones v. Mountaineer Park, Inc. and Winners Entertainment, Inc.,
Case No. 95-C-103-G, Circuit Court of Hancock County, West Virginia. On June 19,
1995, the Company and its wholly owned subsidiary, Mountaineer were served with
a complaint by George Jones, claiming breach and wrongful termination of Mr.
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<PAGE>
Jones' employment agreement with Mountaineer, retaliatory discharge, fraud,
outrage, and defamation. The complaint alleges, among other things, that
Mountaineer terminated Jones' employment in September of 1993 in retaliation for
his efforts to investigate alleged improper activities occurring at Mountaineer.
Mr. Jones seeks an award for compensatory damages in the amount of $1 million
and a like amount in punitive damages. Discovery recently has commenced in this
action, and the Company is seeking to be dismissed from the case.
The Company and Mountaineer have answered the complaint, denying any
liability to Mr. Jones. Management has determined to defend the case vigorously
on the grounds that the defamation claim is barred by the statute of
limitations, and the remaining claims should be dismissed because Mr. Jones'
employment was properly and justifiably terminated. Mountaineer has been advised
by its insurance carrier that the claims against it are covered by insurance.
Management does not believe that either the Company or Mountaineer will incur
any material loss on account of such claims but there can be no assurance that
this will be the case.
Daniel Barrett v. Mountaineer Park, Inc., Case No. 94-C-147G, Circuit
Court of Hancock County, West Virginia. The Company was served with a complaint
in 1994 by a jockey who sustained head injuries from a fall during a race at
Mountaineer. The plaintiff is seeking both compensatory and punitive damages.
Management believes that this matter will be covered by insurance. There can be
no assurance that the Company's insurance coverage will be sufficient to cover
completely the Company's potential liability in this case.
The Company (including its subsidiaries) is also a defendant in various
law suits relating to routine matters incidental to its business. Management
does not believe that the outcome of such litigation, in the aggregate, will
have any material adverse effect on the Company.
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<PAGE>
MANAGEMENT
Executive Offices and Directors
The following table sets forth information regarding the directors and
executive offices of the Company.
Name Age Position and Office Held
---- --- ------------------------
Edson R. Arneault 49 President, Chief Executive
Officer, Director
Thomas K. Russell 43 General Counsel, Chief
Financial Officer, Secretary,
Treasurer, Director
Robert L. Ruben 34 Assistant Secretary, Director
Robert A. Blatt 55 Director
Business Experience
Edson R. Arneault, 49, has served as the Company's President and Chief
Executive Officer since April 26, 1995. He is also a member of the Company's
Board and an officer and director of the Company's subsidiaries, Mountaineer,
Golden Palace, and ExCal. He has served as a member of the Board since 1992,
when he was elected President of ExCal. Mr. Arneault is also president and chief
executive officer of Century Energy Management Co., Inc., which he founded in
1987, and general partner of numerous partnerships directly or indirectly
engaged in the development and production of oil and gas. Mr. Arneault also
engages in oil and gas leasing, drilling and operation through Biscayne
Petroleum Corporation, which he founded in 1987. Mr. Arneault is a certified
public accountant, and served as a tax partner with Seidman and Seidman (now
"BDO Seidman"), a public accounting firm, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, from 1977
to 1980. Mr. Arneault is a member of the Independent Producers Association of
America, the Ohio Oil and Gas Association, the Michigan Oil and Gas Association
and the Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants. Mr. Arneault has
been the Company's liaison with the West Virginia Lottery Commission and
Legislature with respect to Mountaineer Park's video lottery operations.
Thomas K. Russell, 43, has served the Company as its secretary,
treasurer, chief financial officer, general counsel and a director since
December 1989. Mr. Russell is also an officer and director of ExCal, SDR
Corporation ("SDR") and Mountaineer Park. Mr. Russell is an attorney with
responsibility for the management of compliance, litigation and general legal
matters. From 1979 to 1989, he was a practicing attorney in Tustin and Palos
Verdes, California emphasizing business litigation, medical malpractice and
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<PAGE>
representation of American Indian Tribes in tribal and federal courts and
legislative and administrative matters. Since 1975, Mr. Russell has served as an
officer or director of various corporations engaged in the oil, mining, hotel,
equipment leasing, wholesale travel and motion picture businesses. Mr. Russell
received his Bachelor of Arts in Marketing from California State University at
Fullerton in 1975 and his Juris Doctor from Pepperdine University in 1978. He
has been an active member of the State Bar of California since 1979.
Robert L. Ruben, 34, is a principal in Freer & McGarry, P.C., a
Washington, D.C. law firm, where he has practiced since 1991. From 1986 to 1988,
Mr. Ruben was associated with the firm of Bishop, Cook, Purcell & Reynolds,
which later merged with Winston & Strawn, and from 1989 to 1991, Mr. Ruben was
associated with the firm of Wickens, Koches & Brooks. Mr. Ruben is a graduate of
the University of Virginia and the Dickinson School of Law and practices
principally in the areas of commercial litigation and corporate/securities law.
Freer & McGarry, P.C. has served as counsel to the Company since November of
1991, and Mr. Ruben has represented Mr. Arneault and various of his affiliates
since 1987.
Robert A. Blatt, 55, is the Chief Executive Officer of Island Golf
Resorts, L.L.C., Championship Golf Enterprises, L.L.C., and Golf Development
Services, Limited of St John's Antigua, and a member of the board of directors
of AFP Imaging Corporation. Since 1979 he had been chairman and majority owner
of CRC Group, Inc., and related entities, and since 1985, a member (seat owner)
of the New York Stock Exchange, Inc. From 1959 through 1991, Mr. Blatt served as
director, officer or principal of numerous public and private enterprises. Mr.
Blatt received his Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of
Southern California in 1962 and his Juris Doctor from the University of
California at Los Angeles in 1965. He is a member of the State Bar of California
(inactive) and a Registered General Principal, NASD and New York Stock Exchange,
Inc.
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<PAGE>
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The following table sets forth the compensation awarded, paid to or
earned by the most highly compensated executive officers of the Company whose
compensation exceeded $100,000.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Summary Compensation Table
Long Term Compensation
----------------------
Annual Compensation
-------------------
Awards Payouts
------ -------
Other Restricted
Annual Stock Options LTIP All
Salary Bonus Comp. Awards SARs Payouts Other
Name Year ($)(1) ($) ($)(2) ($) ($)(4) ($) Comp.
---- ---- -------- ----- -------- ----- -------- ----- -----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Edson R. Arneault(5) 1995 213,652 23,000 - - 618,415 - -
President and CEO of
Mountaineer Park, Inc. ExCal
Energy Corporation
1994 188,729 - 4,021 46,000(3) - - -
1993 151,865 - - - - -
Thomas K. Russell(5) 1995 147,288 - - - 358,316 - -
Secretary, Treasurer, CFO
General Counsel of MTR
Gaming, Inc.
1994 134,075 - 2,789 - - - -
1993 109,597 16,250 - - - - -
Michael R. Dunn (6) 1995 38,659 - - - 240,000 - 176,973
President and CEO of
Winners Entertainment, Inc.
1994 204,437 - 12,500 - - -
1993 161,436 36,250 - - - - -
Compensation paid to all officers 1995 399,599 23,000 - - 975,731 - -
and directors as a group during 1995
</TABLE>
(1) Salaries for Mr. Arneault and Mr. Russell include accrued compensation
for the year ended December 31, 1995 of $144,667 and $41,554,
respectively. Subsequent to December 31, 1995, said amounts, together
with interest at the rate of 10% per annum, were converted to shares of
the Company's common stock at the market value of the shares on
February 9, 1996, the effective date of the conversion.
(2) Represents accrued 1994 vacation compensation for executive officers
distributed in 1994.
(3) Represents the dollar value of a stock award of 20,000 shares of
restricted Common Stock.
(4) No options were granted in 1994 or 1993. All options granted by the
board of directors in 1995 were approved by vote of the stockholders at
the Company's annual meeting of stockholders held September 11, 1995.
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<PAGE>
(5) See "Employment Agreements" below.
(6) Mr. Dunn resigned from all offices with the Company and its
subsidiaries on April 26, 1995. This amount represents severance
payments.
OPTIONS GRANTS IN 1995
The following table contains information concerning the grant of stock
options during fiscal 1995 to the Company's executive officers named in the
Summary Compensation Table.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Potential Realized Value at
Assumed Annual Rates of Stock
Price Appreciation for Option
Term
% of Total
Options
Granted in
Fiscal Year
Options Exercise Expiration
Name Granted Price Date 5% 10%
---- ------- ------- ---- -- ---
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Edson R. Arneault 378,415 45.98% $1.219 Sept. 1998 $72,711 $152,686
240,000 30.00% $2.000(1) Oct. 1997 0 0
223,316 27.01% $1.219 Sept. 1998 $42,176 $89,702
Thomas K. Russell
135,000 11.25% $2.000(1) Oct. 1997 0 0
Michael R. Dunn 240,000 20.00% $2.000(1) Oct. 1997 0 0
</TABLE>
(1) In October 1992, the Board granted incentive stock options to certain
executive officers, key personnel and employees to purchase, in the
aggregate, 1,200,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock for a price
of $4.875 per share. In December, 1994, the Board voted and
stockholders approved at the annual stockholders' meeting, to reduce
the exercise price of such incentive stock options from $4.875 to
$2.00 per share.
FISCAL YEAR END OPTION VALUES
The following table sets forth information regarding the number and
value of options held by each of the Company's executive officers names in the
Summary Compensation Table during fiscal 1995. None of the named executives
officers exercised any stock options during fiscal 1995.
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<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Number of Securities Value of Unexercised in-
Underlying Unexercised the-Money Options at Year
Options at Fiscal Year End ($)(1)
End(2)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Name Exercisable Unexercisable Exercisable Unexercisable
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Edson R. 759,749 - 0 -
Arneault
Thomas K. 436,816 - 0 -
Russell
Michael R. 419,133 - 0 -
Dunn
</TABLE>
(1) Based on the market price of the Company's Common Stock of $0.75 on
December 31, 1995, as reported by Nasdaq.
(2) On January 23, 1996, the Company, pursuant to a qualified incentive
stock option plan, granted to Mr. Arneault and Mr. Russell, options to
purchase 300,000 shares and 100,000 shares of the Company's Common
Stock, respectively, at the estimated fair market value price on the
date of grant of $0.5625, the options are subject to approval at the
next annual meeting of stockholders. Such options grants were made in
1996, and are not reflected in the table above.
TEN-YEAR OPTIONS/SAR REPRICINGS
The following table sets forth the number of options held by officers
of the Company subject to repricing during the fiscal year ended December 31,
1995. See table entitled "Option Grants in 1995 - footnote (1), above.
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<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Length of
Exercise Original
Market Price Price at Option Term
Number of of Stock at Time of Remaining at
Options/SARS Repricing or Repricing or New Exercise Date of
Amended Amendment Amendment Price Repricing or
Name Date Fiscal Year ($) ($) ($) Amendment
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Edson R. Sep. 95 240,000 1.563 4.875 2.00 2 years
Arneault
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thomas K. Sep. 95 240,000 1.563 4.875 2.00 2 years
Russell
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Michael R. Sep. 95 135,000 1.563 4.875 2.00 2 years
Dunn (6)
</TABLE>
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
Under the provisions of Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act, the
Company's officers, directors and 10% beneficial stockholders are required to
file reports with the Commission of their transactions in the Company's
securities. Based solely on a review of the Forms 3 and 4 and amendments thereto
furnished to the Company during its most recent fiscal year and Forms 5 and
amendments thereto furnished to the Company with respect to its most recent
fiscal year, the Company believes that certain forms were not filed timely by
the Company's officers, directors and 10% beneficial stockholders.
Of these persons, Mr. Arneault did not file one report and filed seven
late reports relating to six transactions, Mr. Russell filed three late reports
relating to two transactions, Mr. Ruben filed three late reports relating to one
transaction, Mr. Blatt filed three late reports relating to two transactions and
Mr. Saunders did not file one report and filed 11 late reports relating to 10
transactions. In addition, the Company has not received at least two reports
from Michael Dunn, the Company's former President, relating to eight
transactions or holdings known to the Company.
Employment Agreements
Messrs. Arneault and Russell each has an employment agreement with the
Company. Each agreement provides for a three year period of employment by the
Company of each of these individuals. Both Agreements terminate on May 9, 1997.
Each employment agreement provides that the employee will receive a base salary
with annual
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<PAGE>
cost of living adjustments, increases contingent on certain events and bonuses
at the discretion of the Board. Mr. Arneault's base salary is $228,900 and Mr.
Russell's base salary is $157,500.
Each agreement provides that if the employee's period of employment is
terminated by reason of death or physical or mental incapacity, the Company will
continue to pay the employee or his estate the compensation otherwise payable to
the employee for a period of two years. If the employee's period of employment
is terminated for a reason other than death or physical or mental incapacity or
for cause, the Company will continue to pay the employee the compensation that
otherwise would have been due to him for the remaining period of employment. If
the employees' period of employment is terminated for cause, the Company will
have no further obligation to pay the employee, other than compensation unpaid
at the date of termination. The term "cause" is defined by the agreement as (i)
conviction of a felony, (ii) embezzlement or misappropriation of funds or
property of the Company or its affiliates, or (iii) the employee's refusal to
substantially perform, or willful misconduct in the performance of his duties
and obligations under the agreement.
In the event that the termination of the employee's period of
employment occurs after there has been a change of control of the Company and
(i) the termination is not for cause of by reason of the death or physical or
mental disability of the employee or (ii) the employee terminates his employment
for good reason, then the employee will have the right to receive within thirty
days of the termination a sum that is three times his annual base salary, but
not to exceed the amount deductible by the Company under the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986. The term "change of control" means (i) any change of control of
the Company that would be required to be reported on Schedule 14A under the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (ii) any person becoming the direct
or indirect beneficial owner of 20% or more of the Company's outstanding voting
securities, other than a person who was an officer or director of the Company on
the date of the agreement or (iii) the circumstance in which the present
directors do not constitute a majority of the Board. The term "good reason"
means (i) the assignment to the employee of any duties that in the employee's
judgement are inconsistent with, or constitute a diminution of, the employee's
position, authority, duties or responsibilities, (ii) the employee's involuntary
relocation from San Juan Capistrano, California or (iii) the Company's failure
to comply with the compensation provisions of the agreement.
Each agreement provides that, during the term of the agreement, the
employee will not compete with the business or any contemplated business of the
Company either individually or as an officer, director, stockholder, employee,
agent, partner or consultant of any entity at any location within ninety miles
of any
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<PAGE>
locations at which the company does business or at which the employee knows that
the company contemplates doing business.
Compensation of Directors
Mr. Ruben and Mr. Blatt are entitled to receive a fee of $2,500 for
each quarterly Board meeting that they attend and are also entitled to be
reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses incurred in attending Board meetings.
Mr. Blatt is also entitled to a fee of $3,000 per month for serving as Chairman
of the Finance Committee. Directors who are employees of the Company do not
receive compensation for attendance at Board meetings, but are entitled to
reimbursement for expenses that they incur in attending such meetings.
On January 23, 1996, Mr. Ruben and Mr. Blatt were granted options to
purchase 75,000 and 50,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock, respectively,
at the fair market value on the date of the grant of $0.5625 per share. The
options are exercisable at any time and from time to time in whole of in part
for a period of three years from the date of grant.
Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider participation
On November 8, 1995, the Board voted to form an executive compensation
committee consisting of Mr. Ruben and Mr. Blatt, the Company's two non-employee
directors (the "Committee"). The Committee is authorized to review all
compensation matters involving directors and executive officers and Committee
approval is required for any compensation to be paid to executive officers or
directors who are employees of the Company.
CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS
In January 1992, pursuant to the approval of the Company's plan of
reorganization by the United States Bankruptcy Court, the Company acquired 100%
of the stock of SDR, a Nevada corporation owned and controlled by certain
members of management and stockholders of the Company. Pursuant to the plan or
reorganization, in exchange for all the stock of SDR, the stockholders of SDR
received an aggregate of 3,169,583 shares of the Company's Common Stock. SDR's
principal asset was an option to purchase a casino development site in Cripple
Creek, Colorado, which site was ultimately reconveyed to its previous owner on
July 21, 1993, when the Company decided not to proceed with development of the
project.
All the Company's oil and gas leases were acquired by its subsidiary,
ExCal in January 1992 from Biscayne Petroleum
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<PAGE>
Corporation, of which Edson R. Arneault was president. At the time of this
acquisition, Mr. Arneault was not affiliated with the Company. As a result of
this transaction, Mr. Arneault became ExCal's president. The acquisition of such
leases was part of a larger transaction involving the acquisition by ExCal of 77
operating wells formerly owned by limited partnerships (the "Partnerships")
controlled by Mr. Arneault, the acquisition of all the stock of Crystal
Exploration Company, Inc. from Century Energy Management Company, Inc., another
affiliate of Mr. Arneault, and the employment of Mr. Arneault by ExCal for a
period of three years at a salary of $120,000 per year and participation in
other board approved compensation plans.
Such leases were acquired in exchange for $100,000 cash, a $790,000
non-interest bearing note (of which $100,000 was paid on December 31, 1992, the
balance being due during 1993) and 50,000 shares of the Company's Common Stock.
The Company and the Partnerships entered into modifications of their original
agreement dated March 25 and November 17, 1993, March 30, August 10 and
September 30, 1994, and March 30, and October 1, 1995. Under the terms of the
September 30, 1994 modification the balance remaining to be paid by the Company
to the Partnerships was $590,000, which the Company satisfied by the payment of
$100,000 cash and the issuance of 98,333 shares of its Common Stock to the
Partnerships. The shares issued to the Partnerships, together with 5,000
additional shares issued in consideration of the Partnerships' agreement to
extend the date for registration from September 15, 1994 to October 15, 1994,
were to be registered for public sale under the Securities Act. Because the
registration statement covering the Partnership's shares did not become
effective before March 31, 1995, the March 30, 1995 modification of the
agreement (i) increased the interest rate on the note representing the $590,000
balance to 10%, (ii) reduced the balance to $467,084 by crediting the note with
the average share price of the Company's Common Stock for the first 14 days that
the shares were eligible for sale under Rule 144, and (iii) amended the payment
schedule to provide for payments of interest only from May 1, 1995 through
October 1, 1995 and twelve payments of principal and interest from November 1,
1995 through October 1, 1995 calculated on a 36 month amortization schedule with
a balloon payment of the unpaid balance on October 1, 1995. Pursuant to the
October 1, 1995 modification, the outstanding balance of the note was retired
through the issuance of 373,600 shares of the Company's Common Stock.
On December 16, 1994, ExCal entered into an agreement to sell its Ohio
oil and gas leases pursuant to the Company's March 1993 plan of orderly
liquidation to Development & Acquisition Ventures in Energy, Inc. ("DAVE"), a
corporation that is controlled by David T. Arneault, the brother of Edson R.
Arneault. The buyer agreed to pay ExCal a total of $450,000 in the form of (i) a
promissory note in the amount of $300,000 bearing interest at 8% per annum and
payable in monthly installments of $10,000 beginning six months
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<PAGE>
after the sale and (ii) $150,000 payable from the portion of the monthly net
revenues of the wells in excess of $10,000. In addition, if the leases are sold,
ExCal is to receive any unpaid balance of the $150,000 plus 50% of the payments
received from the sale. The bid submitted by DAVE was the highest of four
independent bids received by the Company. Through June 30, 1996 DAVE was current
in its payments under the notes, although the Company has made provisions from
time to time for Edson R. Arneault to make certain interest payments on behalf
of DAVE.
During 1994 and 1995, various corporate affiliates of Mr. Arneault
advanced an aggregate sum of approximately $100,000 to ExCal primarily to cover
overhead expenses in connection with the maintenance of leases and other costs
associated with the Company's existing oil and gas interests in Michigan and the
Company's former interests in Ohio. In February 1996, such accrued amount, along
with accrued interest at the rate of 10% per annum, was converted into a demand
promissory note in the principal amount of $100,218 payable to Mr. Arneault at
the rate of 10% per annum.
To assist Fleur-David Corporation, the Company's joint venture partner
in rework activities related to the Company's plan of orderly liquidation of its
oil and gas interests in Michigan, Mr. Arneault purchased 25,000 shares of the
Company's Common Stock held by Fleur-David in July 1995 in a private
transaction.
During 1995, Thomas K. Russell and Mark C. Russell, his brother, each
purchased a working interest in the Marathon-Otter Lake oil and gas reserves in
Michigan, owned in part by the joint venture between the Company and Fleur-David
for an aggregate amount of approximately $50,000. The subject working capital
interests and others were offered by Fleur-David to raise capital to finance
further rework and remediation activities at the property.
Mr. Robert Ruben is a principal in the law firm of Freer & McGarry,
P.C., which has performed legal services for the Company since 1991. During the
fiscal year ended December 31, 1995, the Company paid Freer & McGarry the sum of
$86,295 for legal services. The Company and Freer & McGarry anticipate that the
law firm will perform legal services for the Company in the future.
The Company has a note receivable for $240,000 from a stockholder of
the Company at the December 31, 1995 and 1994, as well as additional noninterest
bearing advances of $62,000 made in 1994. The $240,000 note receivable bears
interest at 8% per annum, is due on demand, and is collateralized by certain
shares of the Company's Common Stock. No demand has been made the Company's
management through December 31, 1995 as management believes recovery is
doubtful. During 1995, the Company has recorded a provision for loss in the
amount of $240,000 which is included in "selling, general and administrative"
expenses in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations.
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<PAGE>
In March 1994, the Company lent $50,000 to a company for a term of
seven days in exchange for a promissory note bearing interest at 8% per annum.
The loan was made upon the recommendation of a significant stockholder of both
the Company and the recipient. During 1995, the Company recorded a provision for
loss in the amount of $50,000. In April 1996, the Company and the recipient
renegotiated and cancelled the original note, and executed a replacement
confessed judgment promissory note in the principal amount of $58,333 at 8% per
annum, all due and payable August 4, 1996.
Notes Payable to Related Parties
During the year ended December 31, 1993, the Company fully paid certain
8% notes payable totaling $401,000 to the former majority stockholder of
Mountaineer and an existing stockholder of the Company.
At December 31, 1993, the Company had a $70,000 demand note due to an
officer/stockholder that bore interest at 6.25% per annum. The note was paid in
full in January 1994.
During 1995, the Company incurred salaries to key management, which
remain unpaid; at December 31, 1995, such amounts accrued were approximately
$204,000. In February 1996, management agreed to accept an aggregate of 466,676
shares of the Company's Common Stock in satisfaction of the amounts due them.
Such shares have an approximate value of $204,000; therefore, no additional
compensation expense will be recorded as a result of this issuance of Common
Stock.
Common Stock and Warrants Issued in Connection with Plan of
Reorganization
As part of the Company's Plan of Reorganization, which was confirmed
January 15, 1992, the Company issued certain warrants to purchase its Common
Stock. During the year ended December 31, 1993, the Company received $2,239,000
for the purchase of 373,241 shares of its Common Stock as a result of the
exercise of Series C warrants. The warrants expired in March 1993.
Redeemable Common Stock
In connection with certain arrangements entered into by the Company as
of December 31, 1994, 367,937 common shares could have been put to the Company
at $6.00 per share upon demand. In 1995, 98,333 redeemable shares issued in
connection with its oil and gas activities were satisfied through the issuance
of 373,600 additional shares of its Common Stock. In 1995, 194,500 common shares
valued at $212,000 were issued for the cancellation of 104,500 redeemable shares
with put rights of certain holders of Golden Palace acquisition debt. In
connection therewith, the
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<PAGE>
Company issued 276,750 redeemable shares which are subject to registration with
the SEC and have a guaranteed selling price of $1.50 per share at the time of
registration. At December 31, 1995, 441,854 share of redeemable Common Stock
were outstanding.
STOCK OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The following table sets forth, as of August 29, 1996, the ownership of
the Company's Common Stock by persons owning more than 5% of such stock, and the
ownership of such stock by the executive officers named in the summary
compensation table, the directors individually and the officers and directors as
a group. As of August 29, 1996 there were 18,628,397 shares of Common Stock
outstanding. All such shares were owned both beneficially and of record, except
as otherwise noted.
Amount and
Nature of
Beneficial Percentage of
Name and Address Ownership Class
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Edson R. Arneault(1) 412,133 12.3
7199 Thornapple Drive
Ada, MI 49301
Donald G. & Bonnie Saunders 817,685 9.3
1987 Family Trust(2)
900 East Desert Inn Road,
Suite 521
Las Vegas, Nevada 89109
Madeleine LLC(3) 676,066 8.4
950 Third Avenue,
New York, New York 10022
Bennett Management & 530,000 8.1
Development Corp.(4)
2 Clinton Square
Syracuse, NY 13202
Thomas K. Russell(5) 540,626 2.8
1461 Glenneyre Street,
Suite F
Laguna Beach, CA 92677
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<PAGE>
Robert A. Blatt(6) 391,684 2.1
The CRC Group
Larchmont Plaza
1890 Palmer Avenue,
Suite 303
Larchmont, NY 10538
Robert L. Ruben(7) 113,228 0.6
Freer & McGarry, P.C.
1000 Thomas Jefferson
Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20007
All officers and directors 3,457,671 17.1
as a group (4 persons)(8)
(1) Includes 20,000 shares and options and other rights to acquire
beneficial ownership of 1,122,615 shares within 60 days of August 29,
1996 held by Mr. Arneault, and 1,269,518 shares held by corporations
and limited partnerships for which Mr. Arneault is a control person.
(2) Includes 1,191,816 shares and options, warrants and other rights to
acquire beneficial ownership held directly by Mr. Saunders and
indirectly by a trust of 625,869 shares exercisable within 60 days of
August 29, 1996.
(3) Includes 183,206 shares and warrants exercisable within 60 days of
August 29, 1996 held by Madeleine LLC ("Madeleine"). This information
is based on information supplied to the Commission on a Schedule 13D
filed by Madeleine on July 2, 1996. Stephen Feinberg owns directly no
shares of the Company. By reason of the provisions of Rule 13d-3 under
the Exchange Act, Stephen Feinberg, the sole managing partner of
Feinberg Management, L.P., the sole managing member of Madeleine, may
be deemed to own beneficially 183,206 shares of Common Stock and
1,492,860 five year warrants to purchase Common Stock at $1.06 per
share, constituting approximately 8.4% of the outstanding Common Stock
of the Company. Madeleine owns directly 183,206 shares of Common Stock
and 1,492,860 of such warrants. In consideration of the funding of the
Term Loan and loan commitment by Lost Horizons Fund, L.P. ("Lost
Horizons"), Illiad, L.P. ("Illiad"), Stix Partners, L.P. ("Stix
Partners"), and to a discretionary account managed by Partridge Hill
Management, LLC ("Partridge Hill"), as more specifically described in
the Schedule 13D filed by Stephen Feinberg with respect to the Common
Stock and
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warrants held by Madeleine, Madeleine will assign to a discretionary
account managed by Partridge Hill all of the securities of the Company
owned by such parties such that, upon such assignments, the securities
will be owned as follows: Lost Horizons - 109,923.6 shares of Common
Stock and 895,716 warrants, constituting approximately 5.04% of the
shares of Common Stock outstanding; Illiad - 45,801.5 shares and
373,215 warrants, constituting approximately 2.10% of the shares of
Common Stock outstanding; Stix Partners - 25,648.84 shares and
209,000.4 warrants, constituting approximately 1.17% of the shares of
Common Stock outstanding; and the discretionary account managed by
Partridge Hill - 1,832.06 shares and 14,928.6 warrants, constituting
approximately .08% of the shares of Common Stock outstanding.
Madeleine has entered into an agreement with the Company in which it
has agreed to restrict its ability to exercise its warrants in order
to comply with the requirements of the West Virginia Lottery
Commission. See "Description of Securities -- Common Stock --
Anti-takeover Provisions."
(4) Includes 780,000 shares for which voting rights have been assigned to
the Board to satisfy licensing requirements of the West Virginia
Lottery Commission.
(5) Includes 103,810 shares and options and other rights to acquire
beneficial ownership of 436,816 shares exercisable within 60 days of
August 29, 1996 held by Mr. Russell.
(6) Includes 341,684 shares and options to acquire beneficial ownership of
50,000 shares exercisable within 60 days of August 29, 1996 held by
Mr. Blatt.
(7) Includes 38,228 shares and options to acquire beneficial ownership of
75,000 shares exercisable within 60 days of August 29, 1996 held by
Mr. Ruben.
(8) Includes Messrs. Arneault, Russell, Blatt and Ruben.
SELLING STOCKHOLDERS
General
The shares of Common Stock offered hereby are either currently
outstanding and held by the Selling Stockholders or issuable upon exercise of
the Options and Warrants held by the Selling Stockholders. The Company has
issued such shares of Common Stock and the Options and Warrants in various
private placement transactions from time to time since its inception. Such
shares of Common Stock are entitled to certain registration rights. See "Shares
Eligible for Future Sale - Registration Rights." Of the
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<PAGE>
4,993,840 shares included herein, 3,274,721 are currently issued and outstanding
and 1,719,119 shares are issuable upon the exercise of the Options and Warrants
by the Selling Stockholders.
In connection with the registration of the securities offered hereby,
the Company will supply prospectuses to the Selling Stockholders.
Stock Ownership
The table below sets forth the number of shares of Common Stock (i)
owned beneficially by each of the Selling Stockholders; (ii) being offered by
each Selling Stockholder pursuant to this Prospectus; (iii) to be owned
beneficially by each Selling Stockholder after completion of the offering,
assuming that all of the Options and Warrants held by the Selling Stockholders
are exercised and all of the shares offered hereby are sold and that none of the
other shares held by the Selling Stockholders, if any, are sold and (iv) the
percentage of outstanding shares of Common Stock to be owned by each Selling
Stockholder after completion of the offering, assuming that all of the shares of
Common Stock offered hereby are sold and that none of the other shares held by
the Selling Stockholders, if any, are sold. For purposes of this table each
Selling Stockholder is deemed to own beneficially (i) the shares of Common Stock
underlying the Options or Warrants held by them, (ii) the issued and outstanding
shares of Common Stock owned by the Selling Stockholder as of October 15, 1996,
and (iii) the shares of Common Stock underlying any other options or warrants
owned by the Selling Stockholder which are exercisable as of October 15, 1996 or
which will become exercisable within 60 days after October 15, 1996. Except as
otherwise noted, none of such persons or entities has had any material
relationship with the Company during the past three years.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Percentage
of
Outstanding
Number of Shares to be
Shares to be Owned
Owned Beneficially
Number of Beneficially After
Shares Number of After Completion
Beneficially Shares Completion of of
Selling Stockholder Owned Offered Offering Offering(1)
------------------- ----- ------- -------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Arie From 150,000 150,000 0 0
AstraFund Ltd. 332,500 332,500 0 0
Barbara A. Sigler 45,000 45,000 0 0
Edson R. Arneault and 741,466 378,600 362,866 3.9%
affiliates
</TABLE>
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<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Percentage
of
Outstanding
Number of Shares to be
Shares to be Owned
Owned Beneficially
Number of Beneficially After
Shares Number of After Completion
Beneficially Shares Completion of of
Selling Stockholder Owned Offered Offering Offering(1)
------------------- ----- ------- -------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Bennett Management & 1,530,000 1,170,000 360,000 1.9%
Development Corp. and
affiliates
Crystal Asset Management 145,000 145,000 0 0
David J. Mesko 30,000 30,000 0 0
Dorothy van Haaften 166,739 116,739 50,000 .3%
Dublin Energy Corp. 60,850 10,850 50,000 .3%
Eli Dragasich 36,000 36,000 0 0
Donald G. Saunders 1,842,685 625,869 1,216,816 6.4%
Glenn Hall 299,750 231,750 68,000 .4%
Golden Palace Casinos, Inc. 283,250 283,250 0 0
Jackpot Enterprises, Inc. 237,500 237,500 0 0
Julie Waring 45,000 45,000 0 0
Ladenburg, Thalmann & Co. 300,000 300,000 0 0
Lawrence L. Manypenny 77,449 77,449 0 0
Louis Haskell 120,000 120,000 0 0
Michael Mapes 85,000 65,000 20,000 .1%
Michael R. Dunn 605,204 100,000 505,204 2.7%
Pat Marasco 30,000 30,000 0 0
Paul E. Anthony 30,000 30,000 0 0
Robin L. Reynolds 25,000 25,000 0 0
Thomas Farida and Regina 50,000 50,000 0 0
Farida as Joint Tenants
John Farida and Thomas 50,000 50,000 0 0
Farida as Joint Tenants
Larry Farida and Denise 50,000 50,000 0 0
Farida as Joint Tenants
Ronald Farida and Ban 50,000 50,000 0 0
Farida as Joint Tenants
</TABLE>
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<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Percentage
of
Outstanding
Number of Shares to be
Shares to be Owned
Owned Beneficially
Number of Beneficially After
Shares Number of After Completion
Beneficially Shares Completion of of
Selling Stockholder Owned Offered Offering Offering(1)
------------------- ----- ------- -------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Terry Farida and Karen 50,000 50,000 0 0
Farida as Joint Tenants
Pattah Investments, Inc. 100,000 100,000 0 0
Lease Equities, Inc. 58,333 58,333 0 0
Totals 7,626,726 4,993,840 0 0
====================================================================================================================================
</TABLE>
(1) Based on the number of outstanding shares as of September 13, 1996.
PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION
Shares of Common Stock currently outstanding and shares of Common Stock
issuable upon exercise of the Options and Warrants may be sold pursuant to this
Prospectus by the Selling Stockholders. These sales may occur in privately
negotiated transactions or in the over-the-counter market through brokers and
dealers as agents or to brokers and dealers as principals, who may receive
compensation in the form of discounts or commissions from the Selling
Stockholders or from the purchasers of the Common Stock for whom the
broker-dealers may act as agent or to whom they may sell as principal, or both.
The Company has been advised by the Selling Stockholders that they have not made
any arrangements relating to the distribution of the shares of Common Stock
covered by this Prospectus. In effecting sales, broker-dealers engaged by the
Selling Stockholders may arrange for other broker-dealers to participate.
Broker-dealers will receive commissions or discounts from the Selling
Stockholders in amounts to be negotiated immediately prior to the sale.
Upon being notified by a Selling Stockholder that any material
arrangement (other than a customary brokerage account agreement) has been
entered into with a broker or dealer for the sale of shares through a block
trade, purchase by a broker or dealer, or similar transaction, the Company will
file a supplemented Prospectus pursuant to Rule 424(c) under the Securities Act
disclosing (a) the name of each such broker-dealer, (b) the number of shares
involved, (c) the price at which such shares were sold, (d) the commissions paid
or discounts or concessions allowed to such broker-dealer(s), (e) if applicable,
that such broker-dealer(s) did not conduct any investigation to verify the
information set out in the Prospectus, as supplemented, and (f) any other facts
material to the transaction.
Certain of the Selling Stockholders and any broker-dealers who execute
sales for the Selling Stockholders may be deemed to be "underwriters" within the
meaning of the Securities Act by virtue of the number of shares of Common Stock
to be sold or resold by such persons or entities or the manner of sale thereof,
or both. If
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<PAGE>
any of the Selling Stockholders, broker-dealers or other holders were determined
to be underwriters, any discounts or commissions received by them or by brokers
or dealers acting on their behalf and any profits received by them on the resale
of their shares of Common Stock might be deemed underwriting compensation under
the Securities Act.
The Selling Stockholders have represented to the Company that any
purchase or sale of the Common Stock by them will be in compliance with Rules
10b-6 and 10b-7 under the Exchange Act. In general, Rule 10b-6 under the
Exchange Act prohibits any person connected with a distribution of the Company's
Common Stock (the "Distribution") from directly or indirectly bidding for, or
purchasing for any account in which he has a beneficial interest, any Common
Stock or any right to purchase Common Stock, or attempting to induce any person
to purchase Common Stock or rights to purchase Common Stock, until after he has
completed his participation in the Distribution (the "Distribution Period").
During the Distribution Period, Rule 10b-7 under the Exchange Act
prohibits the Selling Stockholders and any other person engaged in the
Distribution from engaging in any stabilizing bid or purchasing the Common Stock
except for the purpose of preventing or retarding a decline in the open market
price of the Common Stock. No such person may effect any stabilizing transaction
to facilitate any offering at the market. Inasmuch as the Selling Stockholders
will be reoffering and reselling the Common Stock at the market, Rule 10b-7
prohibits them from effecting any stabilizing transaction with respect to the
Common Stock.
DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES
Common Stock
The Company is currently authorized to issue 50,000,000 shares of
Common Stock, par value $.00001 per share. As of September 13, 1996, there were
18,869,397 shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding and held of record by
approximately 582 stockholders.
As of September 13, 1996, a total of 6,457,490 shares of Common Stock
were reserved for issuance pursuant to outstanding options and warrants of the
Company.
A majority of the outstanding shares of the Company's Common Stock must
be present at a duly called stockholders' meeting in order to have a quorum
under the Company's By-Laws. Only those stockholders of record as of the record
date, which may be fixed not more than 60 nor less than 10 days before the
meeting or stockholder action in lieu of a meeting are entitled to vote on the
subject matter before the stockholders. In most cases, if a quorum is present,
the affirmative vote of the majority of the shares represented at the meeting
constitutes the act of the stockholders. Consequently, the holders of one share
more than one-quarter of the outstanding Common Stock could exercise effective
control over the Company. The affirmative vote of a majority of all outstanding
shares entitled to vote, however, is required to amend the Company's
Certificate, as well as to accomplish certain other matters.
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<PAGE>
All shares of Common Stock are equal to each other with respect to
voting, liquidation, dividend and other rights. Owners of shares of Common Stock
are entitled to one vote for each share they own at any stockholders' meeting.
Holders of shares of Common Stock are entitled to receive such dividends as may
be declared by the Board of Directors out of funds legally available therefor,
and upon liquidation are entitled to participate pro rata in a distribution of
assets available for such a distribution to stockholders. The Term Loan
Agreement restricts the payment of dividends to stockholders without the
lender's consent. There are no preemptive rights or privileges with respect to
any shares of Common Stock. The Common Stock of the Company does not have
cumulative voting rights which means that the holders of more than 50% of the
shares voting for the election of the directors may elect all of the directors
if they choose to do so. In such event, the holders of the remaining shares
aggregating less than 50% would not be able to elect any directors.
Anti-takeover Provisions
The Company's Certificate has two significant anti-takeover provisions.
Pursuant to Article VI of the Certificate, any "Acquisition Proposal" (defined
therein as a proposal by any person to (i) make a tender offer or exchange offer
for any equity securities of the Company, (ii) merge or consolidate the Company
with another corporation, or (iii) purchase or otherwise acquire all or
substantially all of the properties and assets of the Company), requires the
Board to scrutinize such Acquisition Proposal within certain guidelines.
Specifically, the Certificate states that the Board, in exercising its judgment
with respect to the best interests of the Company, is authorized to give due
consideration to such factors as the Board determines to be relevant, including,
without limitation:
(i) the interests of the Company's stockholders;
(ii) whether the proposed transaction might violate
federal or state laws, or affect the Company's ability to obtain required
licenses;
(iii) the consideration being offered in the proposed
transaction, in relation not only to the then current market price for the
outstanding capital stock of the Company, but also to the market price for the
capital stock of the Company over a period of years, the estimated price that
might be achieved in a negotiated sale of the Company as a whole or in part or
through orderly liquidation, the premiums over market price for the securities
of other corporations in similar transactions, current political, economic
and other factors bearing on securities prices, and the Company's financial
condition and future prospects; and
(iv) the social, legal and economic effects upon
employees, suppliers, customers and others having similar relationships with the
Company, and the communities in which the Company conducts its business.
The Certificate requires a supermajority of 80% of the outstanding
shares of the Company entitled to vote in the election of directors to amend or
repeal this provision.
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<PAGE>
In addition to this provision relating to the Board's response to a
takeover offer, in response to regulatory requirements of the Lottery Commission
requiring advance approval of persons who acquire 5% or more of the Company's
voting stock, Article VII of the Certificate provides the Company with the right
to redeem any shares acquired on the open market or otherwise. Specifically, the
Certificate prohibits any Person (a natural person or entity) from becoming the
Beneficial Owner (as defined in conformance with Rule 13d-3 of the Exchange Act)
of five percent (5%) or more of the Company's common stock unless such person
agrees in writing delivered to the Company at its registered office to:
(1) provide to the Gaming Authorities (defined in the Certificate as
any governmental authority regulating any form of gaming which has jurisdiction
over the Company or its subsidiaries) information regarding such Person,
including, without limitation, information regarding other gaming related
activities of such Person and financial statements and disclosures, in such
form, and with such updates, as may be requested and/or required by any Gaming
Authority;
(2) respond to written and/or oral questions and inquiries that may be
propounded by any Gaming Authority; and
(3) consent to the performance of any personal background investigation
that may be required by any Gaming Authority, including, without limitation, an
investigation of any criminal record and/or alleged criminal activity of such
Person.
Notwithstanding such provisions, any and all issued and outstanding
shares of Common Stock held or otherwise owned by a Disqualified Holder (defined
in the Certificate as any Beneficial Owner of shares of Common Stock of the
Company, or its subsidiaries, whose holding of Common Stock may result, in the
judgment of the Board, in (i) the denial, loss or non-reinstatement of any
license or franchise from any governmental agency applied for or held by the
Company or any subsidiary to conduct any portion of the proposed or actual
business of the Company or any subsidiary, which license or franchise is
conditioned upon some or all of its holders of Common Stock meeting certain
criteria, or (ii) the disapproval, modification, or non-renewal of any contract
under which the Company or any of its subsidiaries has sole or shared authority
to manage any gaming operations) (such securities being defined as the
"Repurchase Securities") shall be subject to repurchase by the Company at any
time at the sole discretion of the Company by action of the Board. The terms and
conditions of such repurchase provided for by the Certificate are as follows:
(1) the repurchase price of the Repurchase Securities to be repurchased
pursuant to such provision shall be an amount equal to the Fair Market Value
(defined as the average closing price as quoted on Nasdaq for the 20 days
preceding the repurchase) of such Repurchase Securities or such other repurchase
price as required by either the DGCL, any state law applicable to the
determination that a Beneficial Owner is a Disqualified Holder or applicable
federal law;
(2) the repurchase price of such Repurchase Securities may be paid in
cash, or Corporation Debt Securities (defined as any debt securities of the
Company
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<PAGE>
which comprise all or a portion of the repurchase price), or any combination
thereof;
(3) if less than all of the Repurchase Securities held or otherwise
owned by one or more Disqualified Holders are to be repurchased, the Repurchase
Securities to be repurchased shall be selected in such manner as shall be
determined by the Company's Board in their sole discretion, which may include
selection of the most recently acquired Repurchase Securities, selection of
Repurchase Securities by lot, or selection of Repurchase Securities in such
other manner as shall be determined by the Company's Board;
(4) at least ten (10) days' written notice of the Repurchase Date shall
be given to the Beneficial Owner (and the record holder if such Person is not
the Beneficial Owner) of the Repurchase Securities selected to be repurchased
unless notice is waived in writing by any such holder) provided that the
Repurchase Date may be the date on which written notice is given if the cash or
Corporation Debt Securities necessary to effect the repurchase shall have been
deposited in trust for the benefit of such record holder and subject to
immediate withdrawal upon surrender of the certificates for the Repurchase
Securities to be repurchased;
(5) from and after the Repurchase Date or such earlier date as mandated
by either the DGCL, any state law applicable to the determination that a
Beneficial Owner is a Disqualified Holder or applicable federal law, any and all
rights of whatever nature which may be held by the Beneficial Owners of
Repurchase Securities selected for repurchase (including, without limitation,
any rights to vote or participate in dividends declared on securities of the
same class or series as such Repurchase Securities), shall cease and terminate
and such Beneficial Owners shall thenceforth be entitled only to receive the
cash or Corporation Debt Securities payable upon repurchase; and
(6) such other terms and conditions as the board of directors shall
determine.
All securities subject to this restriction bear a restrictive legend
stating the fact that such securities are subject to the repurchase option of
the Company and may not be transferred other than in accordance with the
Certificate.
Warrants
At October 15, 1996, there were outstanding warrants to purchase
2,441,110 shares of Common Stock with exercise prices ranging from $.80 to $4.00
and expiration dates ranging from October 21, 1996 to January 1, 2004.
Options
At October 15, 1996, there were outstanding options to purchase
4,016,380 shares of Common Stock with exercise prices ranging from $.01 to $2.00
and expiration dates ranging from January 5, 1997 to October 2, 2001.
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<PAGE>
Transfer Agent
The Transfer Agent for the Common Stock is Continental Stock Transfer &
Trust Company.
SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE
The Company had 18,869,397 shares of Common Stock outstanding as of
September 13, 1996. Of these outstanding shares, approximately 7,187,507 shares
are "restricted securities" as defined in Rule 144. Of these restricted shares,
3,274,721 shares are covered by this Registration Statement and were sold in
various private placements by the Company to the Selling Stockholders. Such
3,274,721 shares will, if sold pursuant to this Registration Statement, and the
1,719,119 shares of Common Stock included in this Registration Statement and
underlying the Options and Warrants will, if sold pursuant to this Registration
Statement, be freely tradeable without restriction under the Securities Act,
except that any shares purchased and held by an "affiliate," as that term is
defined under the Securities Act, will be subject to the resale limitations of
Rule 144. In addition to the Warrants to purchase 878,250 shares of Common Stock
and the Options to purchase 840,869 shares of Common Stock as of October 16,
1996 there were outstanding options and warrants to purchase an aggregate of
4,738,371 shares, all of which shares will be restricted securities. In
addition, the Company has registered (i) 183,206 shares of Common Stock, (ii)
1,542,860 shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise of warrants, and
(iii) 1,542,860 warrants on another registration statement which it has filed
with the Commission. Certain of the outstanding shares of Common Stock and
shares underlying outstanding options and warrants have registration rights
described in "Registration Rights."
In general, under Rule 144 as currently in effect, any person (or
persons whose shares are aggregated), including affiliates, who have
beneficially owned shares for at least two years is entitled to sell, within any
three-month period, a number of shares that does not exceed the greater of one
percent of the then outstanding shares of the Company's Common Stock or the
weekly trading volume in the Company's Common Stock during the four calendar
weeks preceding such sale. A person (or persons whose shares are aggregated),
who is not deemed an affiliate of the Company, and who has beneficially owned
shares for at least three years is entitled to sell such shares under Rule 144
without regard to the limitations described above.
Registration Rights
Under a Separation Agreement effective October 15, 1996, the Company
issued 15,000 shares of Common Stock and 30,000 shares of Common Stock issuable
upon the exercise of Options to Julie Waring, a former employee of the Company,
with registration rights.
Pursuant to the Bennett Loan, the Company granted registration rights
with respect to 1,530,000 shares of Common Stock issued thereunder. Pursuant to
an Amendment to the Bennett Loan dated September 19, 1996, the Company amended
the
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<PAGE>
registration rights with respect to the shares of Common Stock previously issued
under the Bennett Loan and granted registration rights with respect to shares
issuable pursuant to such amendment. Whereas the Bennett Loan as previously
amended required the Company to issue Bennett $2.5 million worth of the
Company's Common Stock based on the average market price for the 20 consecutive
trading days preceding January 2, 1997, the Amendment would permit the Company,
at its option, either to pay Bennett $500,000 or issue $750,000 in Common Stock.
Similarly, the Company would be permitted to pay $750,000 or issue $1 million in
Common Stock if the Bennett Loan is not prepaid by July 1, 1997, and pay $1
million or issue $1.25 million in Common Stock if the Bennett Loan is not
prepaid by December 31, 1997. To the extent any shares of Common Stock
previously issued pursuant to the Bennett Loan or to be issued pursuant to the
Amendment are restricted and are not eligible for public sale pursuant to court
order or exemption, Bennett would be entitled to piggyback registration rights
with respect to such shares should the Company or any stockholder of the Company
make a registered offering of Common Stock excluding registered offerings
undertaken in connection with the Term Loan Agreement until December 31, 1997.
Bennett would also be entitled to demand registration rights after December 31,
1997 or any other time at which there is a registered offering in connection
with the Term Loan Agreement.
Pursuant to a settlement agreement signed on July 13, 1994 as modified
by an amendment dated September 4, 1996 between the Company and CAM, the Company
granted registration rights with respect to the 145,000 shares underlying the
Warrants issued to CAM. The settlement agreement as amended contemplates the
inclusion of such shares on a registration statement to be filed shortly after
the date of such modified agreement.
Pursuant to a Registration Rights Agreement dated July 2, 1996, (the
"Registration Rights Agreement") between the Company and Madeleine L.L.C., the
Company's lender under the Term Loan Agreement ("Madeleine"), the Company agreed
to use its best efforts to register and have a registration statement declared
effective with respect to 183,206 shares of Common Stock issued to Madeleine in
connection with the Term Loan and, any other securities of the Company acquired
by Madeleine and any securities into or for which such other securities are
convertible or exercisable, whether acquired pursuant to the Term Loan Agreement
or otherwise (the "Additional Shares") (collectively the "Registrable
Securities"). The Registration Rights Agreement required the Company to effect
the registration of any such Registrable Securities within 120 days of the date
the Registration Rights Agreement, and to keep such registration effective until
i) none of the securities covered by such registration continue to be
Registrable Securities as determined in accordance with the Registration Rights
Agreement or ii) all of the Registrable Securities become freely transferable
under Securities Act Rule 144(k), provided that the Company secures an opinion
of counsel that such conditions have been satisfied and Madeleine's counsel
concurs with such opinion. The Company registered such shares of Common Stock on
a registration statement filed with the Commission.
In the event that a registration statement required to be filed
pursuant to the Registration Rights Agreement shall fail to be declared
effective on or before the seven calendar months from the date of demand
wherefor by the Holder (the "Demand Date"), the Company shall pay to the Holder
within 5 days of the expiration of such seven calendar month period, 5% of the
closing price (the last
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recorded sale price, or if no sales are made that day, the average of the bid
and asked prices, as quoted on Nasdaq) of the Common Stock on the business day
immediately preceding the end of such seven month period. In the event that a
registration statement required to be filed pursuant to the Registration Rights
Agreement shall fail to be declared effective on or before nine calendar months
from the Demand Date, the Company shall pay to the Holder within 5 days of the
expiration of such nine calendar month period, and on the last day of each
calendar month thereafter until such registration statement is declared
effective, 10% of the closing price of the Common Stock on the business day
immediately preceding the end of such nine month or one-month period, as
applicable. Similar provisions attach for any additional shares acquired by
Madeleine.
Pursuant to warrant certificates issued to Madeleine, Brownstone
Holding and Bridge Capital in connection with the Term Loan Agreement, the
Company agreed to use its best efforts to effect the registration of the resale
of warrants issued to them, and the issuance, or if not permissible under the
Securities Act, the resale of the shares issuable on exercise of such warrants.
The Company agreed to use its best efforts to keep such registration statement
continuously effective subsequent to the Commission's determination of
effectiveness until either none of the securities covered by the registration
statement constitute Registrable Securities or all of the Registrable Securities
covered by such registration statement are freely transferable under Rule
144(k), provided that the Company secures an opinion of counsel satisfactory to
the warrant holder and concurred upon by counsel to such warrant holder. In the
event that a registration statement required to be filed pursuant to the warrant
certificates shall fail to be declared effective on or before February 1, 1997,
the Company must pay to the warrant holder an additional amount equal to 5% of
the closing price (the last recorded sale price, or if no sales are made that
day, the average of the bid and asked prices, as quoted on Nasdaq) of the Common
Stock on the business day immediately preceding February 1, 1997 for each
warrant share (determined on an as-converted basis) to be included on such
registration statement. If such registration statement is not declared effective
by March 31, 1997, the Company must pay to the warrant holder an additional
penalty of 10% of the closing price of the Common Stock on March 31, 1997, and
the last day of each month thereafter (each a "10% Due Date") on the business
day immediately preceding such 10% Due Date for warrant shares (determined on an
as-converted basis) to be included on such registration statement until such
registration statement is declared effective. Similar provisions attach for any
subsequent registration statement to be filed on the request of the warrant
holder, if registration is not effected within 90 days, seven months, or nine
months respectively subsequent to the request of the warrant holder. The Company
has filed a registration statement with the Commission covering all of the
warrants and shares issuable upon exercise of the warrants.
Pursuant to an agreement dated April 2, 1996 and amended June 18, 1996,
the Company issued 133,416 shares of Common Stock to Dorothy M. van Haften. The
Company agreed that it would register the shares on behalf of Ms. van Haften and
that in the event that the average closing market price of the Common Stock was
less than $1.50 a share during the ninety (90) days immediately following the
effective date of the registration statement, the Company would be required to
issue additional shares equivalent to the difference between $1.50 and the
average market price. Due to the Company's failure to register such shares
within the
- 86 -
<PAGE>
required time period, as of June 30, 1996, the Company executed a promissory
note in favor of Ms. van Haften in the amount of $200,125. The note bears
interest at the rate of 12% per year, payable in twenty-four monthly (24)
installments. If the Company is not in default with respect to its repayment
obligations under the note, the principal of the note will be reduced based on
i) the number of shares which become eligible for resale pursuant to Rule 144 or
ii) the number of shares which are registered, multiplied by the average closing
market price of the Common Stock for the 90 trading days following the effective
date of the registration statement or eligibility for sale pursuant to Rule 144.
For every $1.50 in principal amount paid by the Company, shares issued to Ms.
van Haften are redeemed, and thus the Company's registration obligations with
respect to such redeemed shares is eliminated. As of October 15, 1996, the
Company had redeemed 16,677 shares.
Pursuant to a Letter Agreement dated March 25, 1996 between the Company
and Edson R. Arneault, Chief Executive Officer of the Company and member of the
Board, the Company agreed to file a registration statement on Form S-8 as soon
as possible with respect to 362,866 shares of Common Stock held by Mr. Arneault.
Pursuant to a Letter Agreement dated March 25, 1996 between the Company
and Thomas K. Russell, Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and member of the
Board, the Company agreed to file a registration statement on Form S-8 as soon
as possible with respect to 103,810 shares of Common Stock held by Mr. Russell.
In connection with the issuance of five promissory notes to the
Company, AstraFund was issued 100,000 shares of Common Stock with registration
rights on March 20, 1996. Subsequently, the Company borrowed additional funds
from Astrafund and as consideration agreed to issue an additional 25,000 shares
with registration rights.
Pursuant to a mutual release agreement dated October 18, 1995 between
the Company and Dublin Energy Corporation ("Dublin"), the Company agreed to file
a registration statement with respect to 10,850 shares held by Dublin at the
earliest practicable time from the date of the agreement. The agreement provides
that failure to file a registration statement by October 18, 1996 will require
the Company to issue an additional 10,850 shares to Dublin.
Pursuant to a separation agreement dated October 11, 1995 between the
Company and Barbara A. Sigler, the Company agreed to use its best efforts to
include 15,000 shares of Common Stock on a registration statement on Form S-1 or
S-3 at the earliest possible date, without any guarantee that such registration
statement would actually be filed or subsequently declared effective by the
Commission.
Under an agreement dated August 9, 1995 with Lawrence L. Mannypenny,
the Company agreed to use its best efforts to file a registration statement with
the Commission at the earliest practicable date to cover 77,449 of the shares of
Common Stock issued under the agreement. The parties acknowledged that no
assurances could be given regarding timing of approval or that approval could be
obtained.
Pursuant to a settlement agreement dated June 30, 1995 between the
Company and Michael Mapes, the Company agreed to use its best efforts to cause a
- 87 -
<PAGE>
registration statement to become effective with the Commission by June 30, 1996
with respect to 165,000 shares of Common Stock (120,000 of which have since been
transferred to Louis Haskell pursuant to an agreement with Mr. Mapes) and 20,000
shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of Options. The agreement provides
that withdrawal of the registration statement prior to effectiveness will not
constitute a breach, provided the shares are included in the next registration
statement filed with the Commission. The agreement further provides that the
failure to register such shares shall not constitute a breach of the agreement
unless the Company has registered shares for another selling stockholder and
could have included the stockholder but did not. If during the ninety days
subsequent to the date of the effectiveness of the registration statement, the
average market price of the Common Stock is less than $1.50 per share, then the
Company is required to issue additional shares in an amount equivalent to the
difference between the average market price and $1.50.
Pursuant to a Settlement Agreement dated June 30, 1995 between the
Company and Glenn Hall, the Company agreed to use its best efforts to cause a
registration statement covering 201,750 shares of Common Stock and 30,000 shares
of Common Stock issuable on exercise of certain Options held by him. Under the
agreement, withdrawal of the registration statement prior to effectiveness does
not constitute a breach, provided the shares are included in the next
registration statement filed with the Commission. The agreement provides that
the failure to register such shares shall not constitute a breach of the
agreement unless the Company has registered shares for another stockholder and
could have included the stockholder's shares but did not. Based on the Company's
failure to register such shares before June 30, 1996, the Company issue a
promissory note for $235,125. If during the ninety days subsequent to the date
of the effectiveness of the registration statement, the average market price of
the Common Stock is less than $1.50 per share, then the Company is required to
issue additional shares in an amount equivalent to the difference between the
average market price and $1.50.
Pursuant to a termination of employment letter agreement dated May 30,
1995 between the Company and Robin L. Reynolds, the Company agreed to include
10,000 shares of Common Stock on a registration statement on Form S-3, if and
when such registration statement is approved by the Commission.
Pursuant to an Agreement dated May 31, 1994, as amended on January 12,
1995, between the Company and William E. Blair, Jr. and Bonnie Blair, the
Company is required to file a registration statement on Form S-8 with respect to
183,888 shares issuable upon exercise of options held by Mr. and Mrs. Blair.
Pursuant to a Consulting Agreement dated December 30, 1994, between the
Company and Arie From, the Company granted registration rights with respect to
87,500 shares of Common Stock, 150,000 shares of Common Stock issuable upon
exercise of Warrants at the exercise price of $1.06 per share, and additional
shares as fees for professional services not to exceed 120,000. The Company
agreed to register such shares on Form S-3, if and when such registration
statement is filed. The Company has been instructed by Mr. From that 207,500
shares will be transferred to Astrafund, one of the Selling Stockholders, and
that such shares will be subject to the same registration rights. These shares
are included in this registration statement.
- 88 -
<PAGE>
Pursuant to an amendment to Rider No. 4 to a Stock Purchase Agreement
(Merger and Stock Exchange Agreement) for all of the outstanding shares of
Mountaineer dated November 28, 1994 between the Company and the previous owner
of Mountaineer and affiliates of such owner, an Original Rider dated December 3,
1992 contemplated the Company using its best efforts to file a registration
statement covering 469,072 shares issued in connection with the acquisition of
Mountaineer. Under the amendment, the Company agreed to use its reasonable best
efforts to cause a registration statement to become effective with respect to
such shares. In addition, the Company agreed that if any shares were sold
pursuant to Rule 144 during the period prior to effectiveness of the
registration statement or pursuant to the registration statement, within 20 days
of the effectiveness of such registration statement, at a price of less than
$6.00 per share based on the average closing bid price of the Company's Common
Stock as reported on Nasdaq for the ten days prior to the effective date of such
registration statement, the Company would issue additional registered shares in
an amount equal to the difference between the price received and $6.00. The
Company is in the process of renegotiating this agreement; however, there can be
no assurance that such renegotiation will be successful.
Pursuant to an Amendment to a Supplemental Agreement with respect to
the acquisition of 77 gas wells dated September 30, 1994 between the Company and
the Bartlett Field Partnerships controlled by the Company's Chief Executive
Officer, Edson R. Arneault as amended by letter agreement dated October 2, 1995,
the Company agreed to use its best efforts to include 373,600 shares plus an
additional 51,000 shares issued to such Partnerships on a registration statement
to be filed with the Commission. If a registration statement with respect to
such shares not become effective before March 31, 1995, the Company was required
to restate a note issued to the party in the amount of $590,000 payable in 12
monthly installments at the rate of 9% per year, which would be reduced by an
amount equal to the average closing bid price of the Company's Common Stock for
the 14 days subsequent to April 15, 1996 multiplied by 98,333.
Pursuant to a Consulting Agreement dated September 1, 1994 between the
Company and Eli Dragisich, the Company agreed to file three registration
statements on Form S-8 to cover the three issuances of shares of Common Stock to
the stockholder. The Company agreed to file such registration statements as soon
as practicable after December 31, 1994, December 31, 1995 and February 1, 1997
respectively.
Pursuant to a Warrant dated March 1, 1994, between the Company and
Ladenburg, Thalmann & Co. Inc. ("Ladenburg"), the Company granted demand
registration rights with respect to 300,000 shares of Common Stock issuable upon
exercise of such Warrants, provided that Ladenburg or the holders of other
shares issuable upon exercise of Warrants requesting such registration hold in
aggregate not less than the sum of i) 50% of the total number of shares issuable
upon exercise of outstanding Warrants of the Company and ii) the total number of
shares previously issued upon exercise of Warrants and not previously sold
pursuant to a registered offering. Alternatively, if the Board authorizes the
filing of a registration statement on any form (other than Form S-4) at any time
prior to March 1, 2002, Ladenburg and any other registered holder of Warrants of
the Company shall have the right to be notified of the Company's intent to so
file a registration statement and to include either all or a portion of the
Warrants and shares
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<PAGE>
issuable upon exercise of Warrants on such registration statement. The Company
agreed to use its best efforts to include all shares requested to be included on
such registration statement and to cause such registration statement to become
effective and remain so for as long as no amendment need be filed or in the case
of a registration effected on Form S-3, for a period of two years.
Pursuant to subscription agreements dated January 1994 between the
Company and various investors, the Company granted a demand registration right
with respect to 350,000 shares of Common Stock such that the Company within six
months of the request of such stockholders file as soon as reasonably possible a
registration statement with the Commission and the relevant state authorities
(the state in which the stockholders reside) with respect to the shares
subscribed for and to use its best efforts to keep such registration statement
effective for one year.
In February, 1994, the Company issued 58,333 shares of Common Stock to
Lease Equities, Inc. as a form of commission in connection with the private
placement of 350,000 shares of Common Stock. The Company granted registration
rights with respect to such 58,333 shares, such that upon the request of the
stockholders it would file a registration statement with the Commission and the
relevant state authorities (the state in which the stockholders reside) as soon
as reasonably possible and to use its best efforts to keep such registration
statement effective for one year.
Pursuant to various stock option plans and grants of options to
employees and directors of the Company, such persons have the right to request
that the Company file a registration statement on Form S-8 with respect to
3,488,047 shares of Common Stock when issued subsequent to the exercise of such
options.
Except as otherwise noted, the Company intends to file registration
statements for all of the securities covered by the foregoing registration
rights.
DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN INDEBTEDNESS
On June 27, 1994, the Company as Guarantor and its subsidiary entered a
Construction Loan Agreement (the "Bennett Loan") with Bennett Management and
Development Corp. The Bennett loan bears interest at the rate of 12.5% per year
with a delinquency rate of 14.5% with an original principal amount of $10.2
million. The Bennett Loan requires the Company to make 36 monthly payments of
principal and interest based on a 36 month amortization schedule through April
30, 1995. The Company may prepay such loan without penalty. The Bennett loan,
which had an outstanding balance of approximately $8.8 million as of September
30, 1996 is secured by a first mortgage on Mountaineer's real and personal
property and is guaranteed by the Company. Bennett was issued an aggregate of
1,530,000 shares of Common Stock in connection with the Bennett loan. See
"Principal Stockholders." The loan agreement allows the Company at its option,
to prepay the outstanding advances by January 1, 1997. If such prepayment is not
made by the Company, it will be obligated to issue an additional number of
shares of its Common Stock equal to $2.5 million divided by the average closing
stock price per share for 20 trading days prior to January 6, 1997.
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<PAGE>
The Company has renegotiated the Bennett Loan by Amendment of the
Construction Loan Agreement (the "Amendment") dated September 19, 1996 among the
Company, Mountaineer Park and Richard C. Breeden, solely in his capacity as
trustee (the "Trustee") of the estate of Bennett, the Company and Mountaineer
agreed to settle all claims against Bennett. This Amendment is contingent upon
approval by the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of New
York (the "Bankruptcy Court"). If the Amendment is approved by the United States
Bankruptcy Court, it will be effective as of October 31, 1996 and the Company
and Mountaineer will dismiss their lawsuit against Bennett with prejudice. The
material terms of the Amendment are as follows:
The Amendment would modify the schedule for amortization of the
principal of the Bennett Loan such that instead of 36 equal monthly payments of
$283,333, Mountaineer will make principal payments of $75,000 per month from
October through March and $125,000 per month from April through September. The
remaining principal balance would continue to be due on April 30, 1999. In the
event that the Bennett Loan is not prepaid by December 31, 1997, the interest
rate on any outstanding balance would, as of January 1, 1998, increase from
12.5% to 14.5% until paid in full; provided, however, that (i) if the Holder of
the second trust on Mountaineer's property (currently Madeleine, LLC pursuant to
a Deed of Trust and the Term Loan Agreement) for any reason does not approve
such interest rate increase, then the interest rate would not increase; and (ii)
in lieu thereof, the monthly payments of principal would increase to $100,000
from October through March and to $200,000 from April through September.
The Amendment would also modify the Company's obligation to issue
additional shares of the Company's Common Stock to Bennett if the loan is not
prepaid by January 1, 1997. Whereas the Bennett Loan as previously amended
required the Company to issue Bennett $2.5 million worth of the Company's Common
Stock based on the average market price for the 20 consecutive trading days
preceding January 2, 1997, the Amendment would permit the Company, at its
option, either to pay Bennett $500,000 or issue $750,000 in Common Stock.
Similarly, the Company would be permitted to pay $750,000 or issue $1 million in
Common Stock if the Bennett Loan is not prepaid by July 1, 1997, and pay $1
million or issue $1.25 million in Common Stock if the Bennett Loan is not
prepaid by December 31, 1997. If the Company elects to issue Bennett additional
shares of Common Stock, such shares would be subject to the requirement that, to
the extent such issuance would otherwise result in Bennett having voting rights
greater than 5% of the Company's issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock,
then such voting rights would be transferred to the Company's Board.
To the extent any shares of Common Stock previously issued pursuant to
the Bennett Loan or to be issued pursuant to the Amendment are restricted and
are not eligible for public sale pursuant to court order or exemption, then
Bennett would be entitled to piggyback registration rights with respect to such
shares should the Company or any stockholder of the Company make a registered
offering of Common Stock excluding registered offerings undertaken in connection
with the Term Loan Agreement until December 31, 1997. Bennett would also be
entitled to demand registration rights after December 31, 1997 or any other time
at which there is a registered offering in connection with the Term Loan
Agreement.
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<PAGE>
In the event the Trustee desires to sell any of the shares of Common
Stock held by Bennett, the Amendment would also grant the Company the right to
match any bona fide offer of a nonaffiliate to purchase the shares until
December 31, 1997. The Amendment likewise grants the Company an option for the
period commencing on the date Mountaineer has paid the Bennett Loan in full and
terminating ten business days thereafter, to purchase all (but not part) of the
1,530,000 shares currently held by Bennett for a price per share equal to 90% of
the average closing bid price of the Common Stock as reported by Nasdaq for the
twenty (20) consecutive trading days immediately preceding the date on which
Mountaineer retires the Bennett Loan. In no event will such price be less than
$1.125 per share.
As part of the Amendment, AGEL, an affiliate of Bennett which had
performed management services at Mountaineer Park pursuant to the Management
Agreement, delivered an acknowledgment that the Management Agreement had been
terminated and that a June 30, 1995 Settlement Agreement among the Company,
Mountaineer, and AGEL was now deemed to be in effect. That Settlement Agreement,
when deemed effective, will terminate the Management Agreement and settle the
accounts of the parties as of June 30, 1995.
The Amendment is expressly subject to the approval of the Bankruptcy
Court, upon application to be made by the Trustee upon proper notice to
Bennett's creditors, which application was served by the Trustee on September
20, 1996 and filed with the Court on September 25, 1996. There can be no
assurance, however, that the Bankruptcy Court will approve the Amendment or any
modification thereof on terms acceptable to the Company or that other
satisfactory terms could be renegotiated if the Amendment is not approved.
On July 2, 1996, the Company as Guarantor and the Company's subsidiary,
Mountaineer, entered into a financing arrangement with a private lender for a
secured working capital loan pursuant to the Term Loan Agreement and a
commitment for first mortgage refinancing. The $5 million loan is secured by a
second mortgage on all of Mountaineer's real and personal property. The note
evidencing the loan calls for monthly payments of interest only at the rate of
12% per annum, and a default rate of 22% per annum. As additional consideration,
the Company agreed to issue the lender 183,206 shares of Common Stock and
five-year warrants to purchase and additional 1,492,860 shares at $1.06 per
share, which are exercisable for a period of five (5) years from the date of the
loan agreement. The principal of the Term Loan must be repaid at the end of the
three year term, during which period, the loan is subject, on each anniversary
date, to additional fees of cash equal to 8% of the outstanding principal
balance, stock equal to 5% of the outstanding principal balance multiplied by
the average daily closing price on each business day for the 30 days prior to
the third day before the anniversary date and warrants to purchase 250,000
shares of Common Stock at $1.06 per share. The shares of Common Stock and
warrants issued to the lender and its affiliates and the shares of Common Stock
underlying such warrants are covered by a registration statement previously
filed with the Commission and the shares and warrants issuable to the lender in
connection with the Term Loan Agreement in the future and the shares underlying
such warrants will be the subject of future registration statements. Certain
restrictions are imposed under the Term Loan Agreement limiting the Company's
ability to incur additional debt, make capital expenditures and increase
management's compensation. Anti-dilution provisions are
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<PAGE>
included in the warrants issued to the lender and its affiliates which would
adjust the exercise price of, and number of shares of Common Stock issuable
pursuant to, the warrants in the event the Company issues additional securities
at a price below the exercise price of such warrants.
As part of the transaction, the lender also provided a one year
commitment to lend Mountaineer up to $11.1 million of additional funds to be
used to refinance the current first mortgage held by Bennett Management &
Development Corp. ("Bennett"). The commitment is subject to customary
conditions, including negotiation of definitive loan agreements, but provides
that any refinancing would be on terms no less favorable than those of the
Company's obligation to Bennett. In connection with the financing commitment,
the Company paid a $110,000 commitment fee and issued the lender additional
five-year warrants to purchase 350,000 shares of Common Stock at $1.06 share and
issued 50,000 five year warrants to affiliates of the lender at an exercise
price of $0.80. These warrants and the shares of Common Stock underlying the
warrants are covered by a registration statement previously filed with the
Commission.
LEGAL MATTERS
The validity of the shares of Common Stock offered hereby will be
passed upon for the Company by Ross & Hardies, New York, New York.
EXPERTS
The consolidated financial statements of the Company and its
subsidiaries included herein as of December 31, 1995 and 1994, and for each of
the years in the three year period ended December 31, 1995 have been audited by
Corbin & Wertz, independent certified public accountants, as set forth in their
opinion included herein. The financial statements referred to above have been
included herein in reliance upon such opinion given upon the authority of such
firm as experts in accounting and auditing.
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<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
<S> <C>
Independent Auditors' Report F-2
Consolidated Financial Statements
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 1995 and 1994 F-3
Consolidated Statements of Operations for each of the years in the three-year
period ended December 31, 1995 F-5
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity for each of the years in the
three-year period ended December 31, 1995 F-6
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the years in the three-year
period ended December 31, 1995 F-10
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements F-12
Condensed and Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 1995 and
June 30, 1996 F-36
Condensed and Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Three
Months and Six Months Ended June 30, 1996 and 1995 F-38
Condensed and Consolidated Statements of Cash flows for the Six
Months Ended June 30, 1996 and 1995 F-39
Notes to Condensed and Consolidated Financial Statements F-40
</TABLE>
F-1
<PAGE>
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
Board of Directors
Winners Entertainment, Inc.
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Winners
Entertainment, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31, 1995
and 1994, and the related consolidated statements of operations, shareholders'
equity and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended
December 31, 1995. These consolidated financial statements are the
responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an
opinion on these consolidated 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 audit 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 consolidated financial statements referred to above present
fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Winners
Entertainment, Inc. and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 1995 and 1994, and
the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in
the three-year period ended December 31, 1995 in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles.
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming the Company
will continue as a going concern. The Company has incurred substantial losses in
the past three years and has a significant working capital deficit at December
31, 1995. These conditions raise substantial doubt about the Company's ability
to continue as a going concern. Management is implementing plans which it
believes will allow the Company to improve operations and cash flows, and meet
its obligations as they come due (see Note 1). The consolidated financial
statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of
this uncertainty.
Corbin & Wertz
Irvine, California
April 5, 1996
F-2
<PAGE>
WINNERS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
As of December 31, 1995 and 1994
ASSETS 1995 1994
---- ----
Current assets:
Cash $ 807,000 $ 1,057,000
Restricted cash (Notes 7 and 13) 426,000 646,000
Accounts receivable, net of allowance
for doubtful accounts of $70,000 and
$93,870 in 1995 and 1994, respectively 174,000 79,000
Notes receivable from related parties,
net of allowance for doubtful accounts
of $290,000 in 1995 (Note 8) 62,000 352,000
Prepaid management fees (Note 14) --- 220,000
Prepaid purses (Note 13) --- 352,000
Deferred financing costs (Note 5) 388,000 630,000
Other current assets 115,000 219,000
----------- -----------
Total current assets 1,972,000 3,555,000
----------- -----------
Property and equipment, net
(Notes 2, 4 and 5) 18,100,000 13,462,000
----------- -----------
Net assets of discontinued oil and
gas activities (Note 10) 2,616,000 2,616,000
----------- -----------
Other assets:
Deferred financing costs (Note 5) --- 998,000
Excess of cost of investments over
net assets acquired, net of accumulated
amortization of $770,000 and $517,000
in 1995 and 1994 (Note 2) 3,004,000 3,255,000
Deposits and other 55,000 72,000
----------- -----------
3,059,000 4,325,000
----------- -----------
$25,747,000 $23,958,000
=========== ===========
F-3
<PAGE>
WINNERS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - CONTINUED
As of December 31, 1995 and 1994
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 1995 1994
---- ----
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $ 3,474,000 $ 2,259,000
Accrued liabilities (Notes 7, 8,
13 and 14) 2,257,000 805,000
Current portion of long-term
debt (Note 5) 2,536,000 648,000
Current portion of redeemable common
stock (Notes 2, 9 and 10) 991,000 1,651,000
----------- -----------
Total current liabilities 9,258,000 5,363,000
----------- -----------
Accrued financing costs (Note 5) --- 998,000
Accrued liabilities (Notes 7 and 8) 490,000 525,000
Long-term debt, less current portion
(Note 5) 8,071,000 5,095,000
Deferred income taxes (Note 11) 1,529,000 1,662,000
Redeemable common stock, 441,854
and 367,937 issued and outstanding at
December 31, 1995 and 1994, net of
current portion (Notes 2, 9 and 10) 415,000 557,000
Commitments and contingencies (Notes
5, 7, 9, 13 and 14)
Shareholders' equity (Notes 2, 3, 5,
and 9):
Common stock, par value $.00001,
25,000,000 shares authorized;
17,022,645 and 14,620,877 issued
and outstanding in 1995 and
1994, respectively 2,000 1,000
Paid-in capital 32,115,000 30,508,000
Receivable from exercise of
stock options (69,000) ---
Accumulated deficit (26,064,000) (20,751,000)
------------ ------------
Total shareholders' equity 5,984,000 9,758,000
------------ ------------
$ 25,747,000 $ 23,958,000
============ ============
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
F-4
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
WINNERS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
For Each Of The Years In The Three-Year Period Ended December 31, 1995
1995 1994 1993
---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Revenues:
Video lottery terminals
(Note 14) $16,479,000 $ 7,481,000 $ 5,293,000
Parimutuel commissions
(Note 13) 4,263,000 3,768,000 4,323,000
Lodging, food and beverage 3,046,000 2,276,000 2,344,000
Other 1,191,000 1,157,000 1,054,000
----------- ----------- -----------
24,979,000 14,682,000 13,014,000
----------- ----------- -----------
Costs and expenses:
Cost of video lottery terminals
(Note 14) 12,256,000 5,709,000 3,720,000
Cost of parimutuel commissions
(Note 13) 5,064,000 4,563,000 5,136,000
Cost of lodging, food and
beverage 3,285,000 2,337,000 2,364,000
Cost of other 1,195,000 798,000 787,000
Selling, general and admini-
strative expenses (Note 7) 6,564,000 6,668,000 6,370,000
Depreciation and amortization 1,504,000 910,000 625,000
Interest expense (Notes 5 and 8) 557,000 729,000 70,000
----------- ----------- -----------
30,425,000 21,714,000 19,072,000
----------- ----------- -----------
Loss before income taxes (5,446,000) (7,032,000) (6,058,000)
Benefit for income taxes (Note 11) 133,000 130,000 145,000
----------- ----------- -----------
Loss from continuing operations (5,313,000) (6,902,000) (5,913,000)
----------- ----------- -----------
Discontinued operations (Note 10):
Loss on disposal of oil and gas
operations --- (640,000) (1,653,000)
----------- ----------- -----------
Loss from discontinued operations --- (640,000) (1,653,000)
----------- ----------- -----------
Net loss $(5,313,000) $(7,542,000) $(7,566,000)
=========== =========== ===========
Loss per share from continuing
operations $ (.33) $ (.48) $ (.46)
Loss per share from discontinued
operations .00 (.04) (.13)
----------- ----------- -----------
Net loss per share $ (.33) $ (.52) $ (.59)
=========== =========== ===========
Weighted average number of
shares outstanding 16,226,743 14,523,377 12,883,031
=========== =========== ===========
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
F-5
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
WINNERS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
For Each Of The Years In The Three-Year Period Ended December 31, 1995
Receivable
From
Additional Exercise of
Common Stock Paid-In of Stock Accumulated
Shares Amount Capital Options Deficit Totals
------ ------ ------- ------- ------- ------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Balances, January 1,
1993 11,226,231 $1,000 $17,013,000 $--- $(5,643,000) $11,371,000
Shares issued from
exercise of
Series C warrants
(Note 9) 373,241 --- 2,239,000 --- --- 2,239,000
Shares canceled on
notes payable and
interest
to affiliates
(Note 10) (20,000) --- (120,000) --- --- (120,000)
Shares issued for
notes payable and
interest to
affiliates, net
of 98,333
shares of
redeemable common
stock (Note 10) 226,286 --- 792,000 --- --- 792,000
Shares issued for
conversion
of debentures
(Note 6) 416,197 --- 832,000 --- --- 832,000
Shares issued for
services
rendered and
letter of credit
fees (Notes 7
and 9) 197,787 --- 619,000 --- --- 619,000
Shares issued for
cash, net
of commissions
(Note 9) 746,755 --- 3,280,000 --- --- 3,280,000
Shares issued for
investment
in riverboat
gaming (Note 2) 50,000 --- 300,000 --- --- 300,000
Shares issued in
connection
with LVEN (Note 2) 250,000 --- 750,000 --- --- 750,000
</TABLE>
F-6
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
WINNERS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - CONTINUED
For Each Of The Years In The Three-Year Period Ended December 31, 1995
Receivable
From
Additional Exercise of
Common Stock Paid-In of Stock Accumulated
Shares Amount Capital Options Deficit Totals
------ ------ ------- ------- ------- ------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Shares issued for
capital raising
activities (Note 9) 125,000 --- --- --- --- ---
Compensation for stock
options issued
below fair
value (Notes 2 and 9) --- --- 600,000 --- --- 600,000
Net loss --- --- --- --- (7,566,000) (7,566,000)
---------- ----- ---------- --- ----------- ----------
Balances, December 31,
1993 13,591,497 1,000 26,305,000 --- (13,209,000) 13,097,000
Shares received in
connection
with settlement with
LVEN (Notes 2 and 3) (250,000) --- (750,000) --- --- (750,000)
Shares issued to for
cash, net of
commissions (Note 9) 786,199 --- 2,193,000 --- --- 2,193,000
Shares issued from
exercise of stock
options (Note 9) 50,000 --- 200,000 --- --- 200,000
Shares issued for
services
rendered and
interest (Note 9) 147,500 --- 210,000 --- --- 210,000
Shares issued in
connection with
financing
arrangement (Note 5) 285,000 --- 1,710,000 --- --- 1,710,000
Shares issued for
accounts
payable (Note 9) 10,681 --- 40,000 --- --- 40,000
Compensation for stock
options issued below
fair value
(Notes 2 and 9) --- --- 600,000 --- --- 600,000
Net loss --- --- --- --- (7,542,000) (7,542,000)
Balances, December 31,
1994 14,620,877 1,000 30,508,000 --- (20,751,000) 9,758,000
Shares issued from
exercise
of stock options
(Notes 2 and 9) 286,667 --- 109,000 (69,000) --- 40,000
Shares issued for
services
rendered and
interest (Note 9) 77,332 --- 42,000 --- --- 42,000
Shares issued in
connection with
financing arrangement
(Note 5) 225,000 1,000 1,349,000 --- --- 1,350,000
</TABLE>
F-7
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
WINNERS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - CONTINUED
For Each Of The Years In The Three-Year Period Ended December 31, 1995
Receivable
From
Additional Exercise of
Common Stock Paid-In of Stock Accumulated
Shares Amount Capital Options Deficit Totals
------ ------ ------- ------- ------- ------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Cancellation of price
guarantee
in connection with
financing
arrangement (Note 5) --- --- (3,060,000) --- --- (3,060,000)
</TABLE>
F-8
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
WINNERS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - CONTINUED
For Each Of The Years In The Three-Year Period Ended December 31, 1995
Receivable
From
Additional Exercise of
Common Stock Paid-In of Stock Accumulated
Shares Amount Capital Options Deficit Totals
------ ------ ------- ------- ------- ------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Shares issued to replace
price guarantee in
connection with
financing arrangement
(Note 5) 1,020,000 --- 1,530,000 --- --- 1,530,000
Shares forfeited by
Company (510,000),
retained by creditor,
in connection with
financing
arrangement (Note 5) --- --- 478,000 --- --- 478,000
Shares issued,
and 104,500
redeemable shares
without rights
canceled in connection
with the Golden Palace
acquisition debt
(Notes 2 and 9) 194,500 --- 212,000 --- --- 212,000
Shares issued, and
98,333 redeemable
shares with
put rights canceled,
in connection with
oil and gas
acquisition debt
(Note 10) 471,933 --- 590,000 --- --- 590,000
Shares issued in
connection
with legal
settlement
(Note 7) 175,000 --- 414,000 --- --- 414,000
Shares issued for notes
payable (Note 5) 60,850 --- 43,000 --- --- 43,000
Cancellation of
shares issued
in 1994 for services
rendered (Note 7) (97,500) --- (100,000) --- --- (100,000)
Adjustment to shares
outstanding (12,014) --- --- --- --- ---
Net loss --- --- --- --- (5,313,000) (5,313,000)
---------- ------ ----------- -------- ------------ -----------
Balances, December 31,
1995 17,022,645 $2,000 $32,115,000 $(69,000) $(26,064,000) $ 5,984,000
========== ====== =========== ======== ============ ===========
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
F-9
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
WINNERS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For Each Of The Years In The Three-Year Period Ended December 31, 1995
1995 1994 1993
---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Cash flows from operating activities:
Loss from continuing
operations $(5,313,000) $(6,902,000) $(5,913,000)
Adjustments to reconcile loss to
net cash provided by (used in)
continuing operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 1,504,000 910,000 625,000
Provision for settlements (Note 7) 408,000 525,000 ---
Other non-cash provisions, net (133,000) 125,000 510,000
Provision for notes receivable
from related parties 290,000 --- ---
Common stock and options issued for
services rendered and interest
(Notes 2 and 9) 77,000 1,340,000 1,219,000
Change in operating assets and
liabilities, net of effects of
acquired companies:
Prepaid management fees 220,000 (220,000) ---
Prepaid purses 352,000 (352,000) ---
Other current assets 54,000 63,000 73,000
Accounts payable 1,676,000 1,221,000 1,049,000
Other accrued liabilities 1,418,000 (244,000) (341,000)
----------- ----------- -----------
Cash provided by (used in)
continuing operations 553,000 (3,534,000) (2,778,000)
----------- ----------- -----------
Loss from discontinued operations:
Oil and gas operations --- (640,000) (1,653,000)
Adjustments to reconcile loss to
net cash used in discontinued
operating activities:
Depletion --- --- 25,000
Provision for estimated loss on
sale of discontinued oil and gas
operations (Note 10) --- 567,000 1,546,000
----------- ----------- -----------
Cash used in discontinued operations --- (73,000) (82,000)
----------- ----------- -----------
Net cash provided by (used in) operating
activities 553,000 (3,607,000) (2,860,000)
----------- ----------- -----------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Restricted cash 220,000 (401,000) (170,000)
Proceeds from insurance reimbursement --- 241,000 ---
Repayments (advances) on notes receivable
from related parties --- 38,000 (160,000)
Deposits and other assets 17,000 (2,000) 5,000
Capital expenditures (5,482,000) (3,444,000) (2,544,000)
Expenditures for investment in riverboat --- --- (428,000)
Net assets of discontinued oil and gas
operations (45,000) (198,000) (210,000)
----------- ----------- -----------
Net cash used in investing activities (5,290,000) (3,766,000) (3,507,000)
----------- ----------- -----------
</TABLE>
F-10
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
WINNERS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - CONTINUED
For Each Of The Years In The Three-Year Period Ended December 31, 1995
1995 1994 1993
---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Cash flows from financing activities:
Payments on notes payable (53,000) (150,000) (300,000)
Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt 4,500,000 5,700,000 240,000
Proceeds from the issuance of notes
payable to shareholders --- --- 100,000
Payments on notes payable to shareholders --- (70,000) (432,000)
Deferred finance costs --- (61,000) ---
Proceeds from issuance of common stock
Series C warrants exercised --- --- 2,239,000
Proceeds from issuance of common stock
for cash, net 2,193,000 3,280,000
Proceeds from issuance of common stock
in connection with LVEN --- --- 750,000
Proceeds from issuance of common stock
through exercise of stock options 40,000 200,000 ---
----------- ----------- -----------
Net cash provided by financing
activities 4,487,000 7,812,000 5,877,000
----------- ----------- -----------
Net increase (decrease) in cash
(250,000) 439,000 (490,000)
Cash, beginning of year 1,057,000 618,000 1,108,000
----------- ----------- -----------
Cash, end of year $ 807,000 $ 1,057,000 $ 618,000
=========== =========== ===========
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow
information -
Cash paid during the year for:
Interest $ 896,000 $ 204,000 $ 68,000
=========== =========== ===========
Income taxes $ 4,000 $ 5,000 $ 15,000
=========== =========== ===========
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
F-11
<PAGE>
WINNERS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For Each Of The Years In The Three-Year Period Ended December 31, 1995
NOTE 1 - GENERAL, BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING
POLICIES
General
Secamur Corporation was incorporated on March 7, 1988. Effective June 19, 1989,
Secamur Corporation and Pacific International Industries, Inc., dba Excalibur
Securities Services, completed a merger accounted for under the pooling-of-
interests method. Prior to the merger, Secamur Corporation had no operations.
Secamur Corporation subsequently changed its name to Excalibur Security
Services, Inc. During 1991, Excalibur Security Services, Inc. formally changed
its name to Excalibur Holding Corporation.
Due to the inability of Excalibur Security Services, Inc. to attain profitable
operations, its Board of Directors, on December 28, 1990, filed a voluntary
petition for reorganization with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in the Central
District of California for protection under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy
Code (see Note 10) and in May 1991, Excalibur Holding Corporation sold the
assets of its discontinued security guard business. Effective January 15, 1992,
a formal plan was approved by the Bankruptcy Court to operate oil and gas
activities and to devote Excalibur Holding Corporation's efforts to the
acquisition of new businesses.
In January 1992, Excalibur Holding Corporation formed ExCal Energy Corporation
(ExCal) as a wholly-owned subsidiary to acquire certain assets of various
companies which were controlled by the newly appointed president of ExCal for
the purpose of establishing oil and gas operations.
During 1992, Excalibur Holding Corporation acquired all of the outstanding
common stock of Golden Palace Casinos, Inc., an entity with no significant
operations and cash of approximately $3,200,000. Excalibur Holding Corporation
utilized substantially all of the cash obtained from Golden Palace Casinos to
finance the acquisition of all of the outstanding common stock of Mountaineer
Park, Inc., which operates a thoroughbred horse track, a 101 room inn and dining
facility, and video lottery terminal activities in West Virginia. Excalibur
Holding Corporation undertook a major renovation of this facility in 1993 with
cash expenditures, including capitalized finance costs incurred through December
31, 1995 of approximately $11,400,000.
Because of the significant acquisitions by Excalibur Holding Corporation in the
gaming industry and their long-term potential, it is management's current
strategy to focus all of its efforts in such industry. Accordingly, on March 31,
1993, management decided to adopt a formal plan of orderly liquidation of its
oil and gas properties and is effecting an orderly sale of such assets having
sold approximately 30% of such assets in 1994 (see Note 10). During 1993, the
Excalibur Holding Corporation formally changed its name to Winners
Entertainment, Inc. (the "Company").
Basis of Presentation
The consolidated financial statements have been presented on a going concern
basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and satisfaction of
liabilities in the normal course of business. Certain considerations raise
substantial doubt about the Company's ability to continue as a going concern.
The Company has incurred substantial losses in 1995, 1994 and 1993, and as of
December 31, 1995, the Company has current liabilities in excess of current
assets of $7,286,000. The Company expects that its continuing operations will be
derived primarily by its operations at Mountaineer Race Track and Gaming Resort
("Mountaineer") (see Note 2). The Company's business strategy is to increase
revenues in all areas of operations through the promotion and expansion of its
video lottery business and the enhancement of its racing and entertainment
facilities. Therefore, the following factors pertain primarily to the operations
at Mountaineer. Management believes that it will be successful in its attempt to
continue to operate as a going concern for the foreseeable future based, in
part, on the plans and factors described below:
- - Mountaineer replaced 165 existing terminals in September 1994 with 400
new terminals, and upon the authorization by the West Virginia Lottery
Commission, Mountaineer installed an additional 400 terminals in June
1995. In March 1996, the West Virginia State Legislature approved
"line" (symbol) games, which is expected to be in operation on at least
400 video lottery terminals by June 1996. In addition, in December
1995, the Lottery Commission voted to allow progressive video lottery
poker and keno games to exceed a 92% payout threshold. As a result,
progressive blackjack, poker and keno games can now be implemented at
payout rates competitive with other gaming jurisdictions. As the most
heavily patronized gaming venue in West Virginia, Mountaineer is
uniquely positioned to benefit from the interest generated by
progressive jackpots. Management believes that such line games and
progressives will have a significantly positive impact on the Company's
operations. Total Mountaineer revenue increased from $14,583,000 in
1994
F-12
<PAGE>
to $24,961,000 in 1995. In addition, Mountaineer's first quarter
operating revenues have increased from $4.7 million (unaudited) in 1995
to $7.2 million (unaudited) in 1996. Management believes that the
substantial and steady revenue increases over the past three years at
Mountaineer will continue and ultimately result in positive cash flows
from operations. However, there is no guarantee that the Company will
achieve the increases in revenues and cash flows it expects to occur.
- - As discussed in Note 3, management intends to refinance its $10.2
million construction loan in 1996. At December 31, 1995, approximately
$2.3 million of this balance is recorded as a current liability in the
accompanying consolidated balance sheet. Mountaineer is currently in
negotiations with a lender to refinance this debt and provide
additional working capital. A $12,500 due diligence fee has been paid
by Mountaineer in connection with the negotiations. However, there is
no guarantee that Mountaineer will be successful in these negotiations.
- - In March 1996, Mountaineer received bridge financing from a different
lender in the amount of $570,000, net (see Note 16), which Mountaineer
expects to repay with the proceeds from the aforementioned refinancing.
- - Mountaineer has expended approximately $11.4 million for capital
improvements, which includes expenditures for the lodge which was
damaged by fire in 1994. Management believes that the Company's capital
improvements have had a favorable impact on the Company's operations
and management believes this should continue in 1996 and beyond.
However, there is no guarantee that such favorable impact will
continue.
- - As discussed in Note 7, Mountaineer amended its video lottery
terminals' lease agreement in March 1996 resulting in a reduction of
future monthly payments over an extended term. Scheduled annual lease
payments under the original agreement were approximately $1,859,000.
The amendment reduced the required cash outflows by approximately
$256,000 for 1996.
The consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might
be necessary should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern. The
Company's continuation as a going concern is dependent on its ability to
generate sufficient cash flow to meet its obligations on a timely basis, to
obtain additional financing as may be required, and ultimately to attain
profitable operations.
Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and
its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions have
been eliminated in consolidation. The accounts of the Company's acquired
companies include the operations from the consummation dates.
F-13
<PAGE>
Discontinued Operations
The Company adopted a formal plan in March 1993 to discontinue operations of its
oil and gas operations (see Note 10). The net assets and operating results of
the oil and gas segment are shown separately in the accompanying consolidated
financial statements as discontinued operations. Although management still
retains certain assets to maximize their ultimate value upon disposition,
management believes that the classification as discontinued operations remains
appropriate.
Cash and Restricted Cash
For purposes of the statements of cash flows, the Company considers investments
purchased with a remaining maturity of three months or less from the purchase
date to be cash equivalents.
Restricted cash includes collateralized, short-term certificates of deposit (see
Note 7), cash in banks designated for redevelopment activities, and unredeemed
winning tickets from its racing operations (see Note 13).
At December 31, 1995, the Company has approximately $73,000 of deposits which
are in excess of limits insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment is stated at cost. The Company capitalizes direct
materials and labor, and allocates interest during the construction periods.
Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the following
estimated useful lives:
Buildings 20 to 40 years
Furniture and fixtures 5 to 7 years
Equipment and automobiles 3 to 15 years
Interest is capitalized to construction in progress during periods of
redevelopment based on qualifying assets, using a method which approximates the
effective interest rate method. Interest incurred in 1995 and 1994 was
$1,711,000 and $2,337,000, respectively. Interest capitalized in 1995 and 1994,
was $1,127,000 and $790,000, respectively. Interest costs in 1993 were not
significant.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The Company has financial instruments whereby the fair market value of these
financial instruments could be different than that recorded on a historical
basis on the December 31, 1995 and 1994 consolidated balance sheets. The
Company's significant financial instruments consist of its long-term debt and
its redeemable common stock. An estimate of the fair value of these financial
instruments is not practicable because there is not an active market for such
financial instruments.
Deferred Financing Costs
The Company capitalizes certain loan costs in connection with its financing
activities (see Note 5) and these costs are amortized over the expected term of
the related loans using a method that approximates the effective interest
method.
Excess of Cost of Investments Over Net Assets Acquired, Net
The excess of cost of investments over net assets acquired (goodwill) is
amortized on a straight-line basis over the expected periods to be benefitted.
The Company assesses the recoverability of this intangible asset by determining
whether the amortization of the goodwill balance over its remaining life can be
recovered through projected undiscounted cash flows. The amount of goodwill
impairment, if any, is measured based on projected undiscounted cash flows and
is charged to operations in the period in which goodwill impairment is
determined by management. Goodwill is being amortized on the straight-line
method over an expected fifteen year life. The methodology that management used
to project results of operations forward twelve years, which represents the
remaining life of the goodwill as of December 31, 1995, was based on a five-year
trend line of expected cash flows. At December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993, no
impairment of goodwill was determined by management.
Amortization expense included in the consolidated statement of operations for
the years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 is $252,000, $252,000 and
$266,000, respectively.
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes revenues from parimutuel commissions earned from
thoroughbred racing at the time wagers are made. Such commissions are a
designated portion of the wagering handle as determined by the
F-14
<PAGE>
West Virginia Racing Commission (the "Racing Commission"). Such revenues are
shown net of the taxes assessed by state and local agencies, as well as purses
and contract amounts paid to the Horsemen's Association (see Note 13).
Revenues from video lottery terminals is the net win, which is the difference
between wins (wagers) and losses (payouts), and is recorded at the time wagers
are made (see Note 14).
Revenues from food and beverage are recognized at the time of sale and revenues
from lodging are recognized at the time services are rendered.
Seasonality
The operations of Mountaineer are typically seasonal in nature. Winter
conditions may adversely affect transportation routes to Mountaineer, as well as
cause cancellations of live horse racing. As a result, adverse seasonal
conditions could materially effect the operations of the Company.
Accounting Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of
contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and
the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reported period. Such
estimates may be materially different from actual financial results.
Income Taxes
The Company accounts for its income taxes under Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards No. 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes" ("SFAS No. 109").
Under SFAS No. 109, deferred taxes are based on the difference between the tax
bases of assets and liabilities and their amounts for financial statement
purposes; deferred taxes are then provided based on the estimated tax rates in
effect when the temporary differences are expected to reverse. The Company
records a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets when it is more likely
than not that such deferred tax assets will not be realized through future
operations (see Note 11).
Per Share Information
Per share information is computed by dividing net loss for the year by the
weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the year.
The effect of common stock equivalents would be antidilutive for all periods
presented and is not included in the net loss per share calculations.
Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications have been made to the 1993 and 1994 consolidated
financial statements to conform with the 1995 presentation.
NOTE 2 - MERGERS AND ACQUISITIONS
Mountaineer Park, Inc.
On December 4, 1992, the Company acquired all of the issued and outstanding
common shares of Mountaineer Park, Inc. (Mountaineer), in a tax-free exchange,
for 183,181 shares of the Company's common stock, guaranteed at a per share
sales value of $6.00, an additional 400,000 shares of the Company's common stock
and approximately $91,000 in cash. Should the 183,181 shares, upon registration,
have a sales value in the aggregate less than $6.00 per share, the Company will
register additional shares such that the total market value of the shares is
equal to approximately $1,099,000, (183,181 shares times $6.00 per share) (Note
9).
The acquisition was accounted for as a purchase and, accordingly, the results of
operations of the acquired business have been consolidated with those of the
Company commencing on December 4, 1992. The purchase price of $2,895,000 was
allocated to the acquired assets and assumed liabilities based on their
respective fair values. The purchase price exceeded the estimated fair value of
the net assets acquired by $2,774,000, which has been recorded as excess of cost
of investment over net assets acquired (see Note 1).
The Company paid certain outstanding indebtedness of Mountaineer of
approximately $3,652,000 in cash and issued approximately 446,496 shares of
common stock valued at $2,428,000 to certain creditors of Mountaineer in
satisfaction of additional obligations, of which 346,496 shares have
registration rights, guaranteed at a per share sales value of $6.00. Upon
registration, the Company will issue additional shares such that the market
value of the shares is equal to approximately $2,079,000. The
F-15
<PAGE>
Company granted put rights to the holder (a bank) of 60,604 of the
aforementioned shares (see Note 9 "Redeemable common stock") at $6.00 per share,
all of which became exercisable on or before December 31, 1995. No demand has
been made to the Company. The Company has reflected certain amounts as current
liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Mountaineer Park,
Inc. operates a thoroughbred horse racing track and 800 video lottery terminals
on a 606 acre facility in Chester, West Virginia. Mountaineer also operates a
101 room inn adjacent to the track, dining facilities, as well as a nine-hole
executive golf course and other recreational facilities. Certain operations are
regulated by agencies within the state of West Virginia, which includes annual
licensing (see Notes 13 and 14). At December 31, 1995, all significant licenses
were in effect.
Golden Palace Casinos, Inc.
In October 1992, the Company acquired all of the outstanding capital stock of
Golden Palace Casinos, Inc. ("GPC" and "Golden Palace"), a Minnesota corporation
organized to manage casinos on Indian reservations. Although Golden Palace had
no significant operations at the time of the acquisition, it held, through a
wholly owned subsidiary, a contract, to manage a casino planned for an Indian
reservation in Oklahoma, subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions.
Shortly after the acquisition of Golden Palace, the West Virginia Lottery
Commission advised Management that, as a condition to licensing of the Company's
then-proposed video lottery operations at Mountaineer, the Company could not
engage in Indian gaming activities. Consequently, in December 1992, the Company
sold the subsidiary holding the management contract and agreed to not otherwise
engage in Indian gaming activities as long as it conducted video lottery
operations in West Virginia. Notwithstanding the sale of the management
contract, the acquisition of Golden Palace, which had substantial cash on hand,
provided the Company with sufficient funds to complete the acquisition of all of
the outstanding capital stock of Mountaineer. In connection therewith, the
Company granted put rights to the holders of 209,000 of the aforementioned
shares (see Note 9 "Redeemable common stock") at $6.00 per share should such
shares not have been registered by February 1, 1993; such registration has not
been effected to date.
On June 30, 1995, holders (2) of 104,500 shares of $6.00 redeemable common stock
received an aggregate of 366,750 shares of the Company's common stock, of which
276,750 shares are subject to conversions into notes at a value of $1.50 per
share or approximately $415,000, payable in 24 equal monthly installments
beginning June 30, 1996, interest at 12% per annum, in the event a registration
statement is not effective. Beginning June 30, 1995, the Company has the right
to purchase the 276,750 shares, in whole or in part, at $1.50 per share, less
any credit for payments made through the date of repurchase. Should a
registration statement become effective before the notes are paid in full, the
Company will receive credit for all payments made, as well as a credit for an
amount equal to the average closing market value for 90 days following the
effective date of the registration. All shares issued are subject to
registration, to the extent such shares have not been sold by the parties.
Considering the terms of the settlement discussed above, the Company has
recorded the value of the shares of $415,000 as noncurrent "redeemable common
stock" in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.
In addition, on the acquisition date, the Company issued options to holders of
Golden Palace options to purchase (a) 190,000 shares of the Company's common
stock at $2.00 per share, (b) 200,000 shares of the Company's common stock at
$.01 per share, and (c) warrants to purchase 283,250 shares of the Company's
common stock at $2.40 per share through 1997. Options to purchase 70,000 shares
at $0.01 were exercised in 1995 (Note 9).
LVEN
On August 12, 1993, the Company entered into a letter of intent with Las Vegas
Entertainment Network, Inc. (LVEN) to acquire, through merger, the issued and
outstanding shares of LVEN. Pursuant to the letter of intent, the Company also
issued 250,000 shares of its common stock for $750,000 in cash. The letter of
intent provided for other terms to be negotiated; however, the parties were
unable to consummate a definitive agreement and the merger was not effected. The
Company and LVEN later reached a settlement arrangement in 1994 (see Note 3).
NOTE 3 - SALE OF RIVERBOAT INTEREST AND SETTLEMENT WITH LVEN
Riverboat Gaming
On March 2, 1993, the Company, as assignee, entered into an agreement with M&R
Investment Company (M&R) for an assignment of an 80% interest in a ground lease
zoned for riverboat gaming in Tunica, Mississippi. The ground lease covered a
riverboat gaming site approved by the US Army Corps of Engineers. The Company
paid $106,937 on September 6, 1993 and $40,000 in rental payments in accordance
with the terms of the agreement. On March 9, 1993, the Company entered into a
joint venture arrangement with Regal Casinos, the remaining leaseholder, to
construct and operate a riverboat. On April 21, 1993,
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<PAGE>
the Company agreed to purchase Regal's 20% interest in the venture for $50,000
in cash and 50,000 shares of its common stock valued at $300,000.
On July 30, 1993, the Company entered into a joint venture arrangement with LVEN
and BP Group, Ltd., which agreed to assist in the funding, construction and
operation of the riverboat. On February 2, 1994, the Company sold its interest
in the venture. At December 31, 1993, the Company's investment in the riverboat
venture was $728,000 as reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet
at December 31, 1993.
On February 25, 1994, the Company entered into a settlement agreement with LVEN
(see Note 2), whereby the Company sold its interest in the ground lease valued
at $728,000 at December 31, 1993, and was repaid its note receivable of
$200,000, totaling $928,000. Consideration received was 250,000 shares of the
Company's common stock owned by LVEN valued at $750,000, and the balance in
cash. No significant gain or loss resulted from this sale of the Company's
interest and note receivable.
The parties mutually agreed to be released from all claims which may have
existed as a result of the abandonment of the proposed merger between the
Company and LVEN.
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NOTE 4 - PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
At December 31, 1995 and 1994, property and equipment consists of the following:
1995 1994
---- ----
Land $ 371,000 $ 371,000
Buildings 15,716,000 11,899,000
Equipment 2,021,000 1,294,000
Furniture and fixtures 2,258,000 1,058,000
Construction in progress 519,000 372,000
----------- -----------
20,885,000 14,994,000
Less accumulated depreciation (2,785,000) (1,532,000)
----------- -----------
$18,100,000 $13,462,000
=========== ===========
Depreciation expense charged to operations during the years ended December 31,
1995, 1994 and 1993 is $1,252,000, $658,000 and $359,000, respectively.
NOTE 5 - LONG-TERM DEBT
Construction Note Payable
On June 27, 1994, the Company entered into a financing arrangement with Bennett
Management and Development Corporation (Bennett) for construction and
redevelopment activities at Mountaineer. Pursuant to the agreement, Bennett
agreed to finance the Company $10,200,000 for construction with interest payable
monthly at 12.5% per annum, subject to a default rate of 14.5% per annum. The
Company received advances of $5,700,000 from Bennett in 1994 and the remaining
$4,500,000 in 1995. The loan is secured by a deed of trust on all real property
at the resorts. The outstanding principal balance of the loan is $10,200,000 at
December 31, 1995.
The Company was obligated to issue 5 shares of common stock for every $100 in
advances, subject to a $6.00 per share price guarantee by the Company at the
time of registration of such shares. During 1995 and 1994, the Company issued
225,000 shares and 285,000 shares of its common stock valued at $1,350,000 and
$1,710,000, respectively, for a total value of $3,060,000. Such amounts were
recorded by the Company as deferred financing costs. If the Company did not
register these shares by October 1, 1995, the interest rate would have increased
to 22.5% per annum (see below). In addition to the financing costs above, the
Company incurred a $200,000 loan fee to an investment banker to be amortized
over the life of the loan.
In a series of amendments to the loan agreements and forbearance agreements
which were executed between July 7, 1995 and January 12, 1996, certain terms of
the Bennett loan agreement were amended by the parties as described below:
1) The Company's prepayment option dates of July 1, 1995 and November 1, 1995
were deleted. Upon amendment, the construction loan is payable interest only
through May 31, 1996, with principal and interest payable monthly over 36 months
through April 30, 1999.
2) An interest rate escalation, as defined in the original agreement, of 22.5%
was deleted.
3) Under the July 7, 1995 amendment, the $6.00 per share price guarantee on
510,000 shares discussed above was canceled in exchange for an additional
1,020,000 shares of common stock at an estimated fair value of $1,530,000. The
Company capitalized $1,530,000 as deferred financing costs. This amount is
amortized to interest expense and construction in progress through October 1,
1995 (see subsequent paragraphs).
The original 510,000 shares with $6.00 price guarantees were held by Bennett on
behalf of the Company, and in the event the Company prepaid the outstanding
indebtedness by October 1, 1995, such shares would have been returned to the
Company. No prepayment was made on October 1, 1995, and accordingly, the 510,000
shares were forfeited to Bennett and were valued on October 1, 1995 at their
estimated fair value of $478,000. This amount has been recorded as additions to
deferred financing costs and will be amortized from October 1, 1995 to January
2, 1997 (see Note 1).
The Company shall register all shares referred to above with the SEC on a best-
efforts basis.
Bennett has transferred the voting rights with respect to 780,000 shares to the
Board of Directors of the Company, and Bennett has agreed not to acquire
additional common stock so that Bennett will not be permitted to vote more than
5% of the Company's common stock.
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<PAGE>
4) At December 31, 1994, deferred financing costs of $998,000 were recorded as a
reflection of future obligations to Bennett. The requirement for these future
obligations was deleted from the amended agreement in July 1995, resulting in a
$998,000 reduction in "deferred financing costs" with a corresponding reduction
in "accrued financing costs".
5) The amended agreement allows the Company, at its option, to prepay the
outstanding advances by January 1, 1997. If such prepayment is not made by the
Company, it will be obligated to issue an additional number of shares of its
common stock equal to $2,500,000, divided by the average closing stock price per
share for 20 consecutive trading days prior to January 2, 1997.
Management intends to refinance this note through the issuance of long-term debt
on satisfactory terms by January 2, 1997; however, there are no assurances that
such obligation will be refinanced on terms satisfactory to the Company.
Interest expense charged to operations and interest capitalized to construction
in progress incurred under this agreement for the year ended December 31, 1995
were $547,000, of which $131,000 results from common stock issued by the
Company, and $1,127,000, of which $409,000 results from common stock issued by
the Company, respectively, and for the year ended December 31, 1994 were
$700,000, of which $614,000 results from common stock issued by the Company and
$709,000, of which $693,000 results from common stock issued by the Company,
respectively. At December 31, 1995 and 1994, the Company had approximately
$388,000 deferred as finance costs in connection with this arrangement in the
accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
Other Notes Payable
On December 4, 1992, the Company issued a 10% note in $93,750 principal amount
payable to an unrelated party in connection with the acquisition of Mountaineer.
At December 31, 1994, the outstanding principal balance of the note was $43,000.
In 1995, the Company converted the note into 60,850 shares of its common stock.
On March 11, 1993, the Company issued 20% notes in $300,000 aggregate principal
amount. Such notes were fully paid by October 10, 1993.
In September 1995, the Company entered into an agreement with its Totalisator
system supplier to convert $461,000 of outstanding trade payables into a term
note. Under the terms of the agreement, the Company is required to make 21
monthly interest and principal payments of $17,800 and eight (8) additional
payments of approximately $17,800 on various dates through May 31, 1997. The
loan, which is unsecured, bears interest at the rate of 12% per annum. The loan
is subject to an acceleration clause and other financial disincentives in the
event of default. At December 31, 1995, the outstanding principal balance is
$408,000. The Company paid $53,642 and $17,651 of principal and interest,
respectively, in 1995 related to this term note.
Annual Commitments
Future annual principal payments under all indebtedness as of December 31, 1995,
assuming the Bennett notes are prepaid on or before January 2, 1997, are as
follows:
Years Ended December 31,
------------------------
1996 $ 2,536,000
1997 8,071,000
-----------
$10,607,000
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<PAGE>
NOTE 6 - CONVERTIBLE DEBENTURES
In connection with the acquisition of Golden Palace (see Note 2), the Company
assumed unsecured convertible debentures bearing interest at 8% per annum and
due on March 31, 1993. In 1993, the holders agreed to convert such debentures,
plus accrued interest of approximately $82,000, into 416,197 shares of the
Company's common stock.
NOTE 7 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Mountaineer Bond Requirements
Mountaineer is required to maintain a $250,000 bond with the Racing Commission
for its operations through December 31, 1996. The Company obtained the bond
through a letter of credit with a bank which is collateralized by a $100,000
certificate of deposit (see Note 1) and a $150,000 bank deposit.
The Company is also required to maintain a bond of $70,000 for the benefit of
the Lottery Commission through June 30, 1996. The bonding requirement has been
satisfied via the issuance of a $20,000 surety bond and two letters of credit
aggregating $50,000, each of which is collateralized by certain bank deposits
(see Note 1).
Jackpot Settlement Agreement
In January 1993, the Company entered into a financing arrangement with Jackpot
Enterprises, Inc. (Jackpot), the proceeds of which were to be used for
redevelopment activities. Pursuant to such arrangement, Jackpot initially
provided the Company with a $600,000 letter of credit collateralized by
Mountaineer Park's land and improvements to insure the performance of the
Company's obligations with respect to racing and video lottery activities under
its agreements with the State of West Virginia. For its letter of credit, the
Company's issued Jackpot 30,000 shares of its common stock which were valued at
$90,000.
The Company and Jackpot were unable to consummate the overall financing
arrangement. The agreement provided that if financing could not be reached due
to certain contingencies, the Company would be required to issue 250,000 shares
of its common stock as liquidated damages. On March 2, 1995, management settled
such claim effective June 25, 1994, agreeing to issue shares of its common stock
with registration rights. The number of shares of common stock to be issued was
based on $512,500 divided by the closing market price per share on the effective
date of registration. In the event the Company did not register the shares by
May 2, 1995, the Company was, and continued to be, required to issue 12,500
shares on such date and 12,500 shares each 60 days that such registration is not
effective. In no event will the Company be obligated to issue more than 250,000
shares of its common stock. The Company recorded a provision for loss of
$525,000 in connection with the settlement which is included in the consolidated
statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 1994.
During 1995, the Company issued 175,000 shares of its common stock as part of
its settlement and, accordingly, $414,000 was reduced from accrued liabilities.
At December 31, 1995, $111,000 remains included in accrued liabilities in the
accompanying 1995 consolidated balance sheet. Management expects to issue an
additional 75,000 shares of its common stock as management does not expect to
file an effective registration statement by the deadline provided in this
agreement.
Other Settlement
In July 1994, the Company entered into an agreement settling all claims by a
consulting firm arising from an April 1993 financial advisory agreement. The
Company agreed to pay fees and expenses of $165,000. An initial payment of
$15,000 was made upon execution of the settlement agreement and two additional
payments of $15,000 were required from the proceeds of certain unrelated
financings by the Company by December 1, 1994. Such payments were not made and
the entire balance is due upon demand. At December 31, 1995, the Company has
$150,000 outstanding under the agreement, which is included in "accrued
liabilities" in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.
Under the settlement agreement, the Company canceled previously issued warrants
to purchase 145,000 shares of common stock with registration rights at $7.00 per
share, and instead, issued warrants to purchase 145,000 shares of common stock
with registration rights, exercisable at $6.25 per share through December 1996.
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<PAGE>
Operating Leases
Totalisator System Operating Lease
The Company leased its Totalisator system under an operating lease which was
amended November 28, 1995 (see below). Under the terms of the lease prior to
amendment, the Company was obligated to pay the lessor approximately $1,500 per
live race performance, plus .5% of the wagered handle in excess of $300,000. The
Company was also paying $300 per live race day ($550 if no live race
performance), plus .5% of simulcast handle in excess of $60,000, per simulcast
race day.
Under the amended terms, the Company must pay the greater of $1,000 per live
race performance or 0.55% of the live racing handle. In addition, the Company
must pay the greater of $300 per live race day ($550 if no live race
performance) per simulcast race day or 0.55% of the simulcast racing handle. For
the years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993, the rent expense under the
lease was approximately $529,000, $495,000 and $509,000, respectively, which is
included in "cost of parimutuel commissions" in the accompanying consolidated
statements of operations.
The Company also leases its videotape and closed circuit television systems at a
cost of $500 per race day and $125 per simulcast race day under an operating
lease expiring in October 2002. The lease was entered into with a company whose
ownership included the majority shareholder (an existing shareholder of the
Company) at the time of its inception. The Company has the option to purchase
the equipment by October 1, 1996 at the estimated fair value of $350,000. Rental
payments made pursuant to this lease for the years ended December 31, 1995, 1994
and 1993 was approximately $142,000, $223,000 and $172,000, respectively.
Video Lottery Terminals Operating Lease
The Company leased 165 video lottery terminals under an operating lease through
September 1994. Under the terms of the lease, the Company was obligated to pay
the lessor a fixed percentage of video lottery terminal revenues. These video
lottery terminals were replaced in September 1994 as discussed below.
In September 1994, the Company entered into a master lease agreement for 400 new
video lottery terminals which was scheduled to expire September 1997 (see
below). The monthly lease payments on these 400 video lottery terminals were
$72,378, plus taxes, insurance and maintenance costs (see discussion of
amendment to the master lease below).
On April 7, 1995, the Company updated the master lease to provide for 400
additional video lottery terminals which were installed in June 1995. In
connection with this lease addition, the Company was obligated to pay 36 monthly
installments of $83,000 beginning in January 1996 through December 1998 for
these 400 additional video lottery terminals. The Company has normalized rent
expense over the 42 month lease term (see discussion of amendment to the master
lease below).
As of December 31, 1995, the Company had past due payments under the master
lease agreement amounting to $190,093 which constituted an event of default. On
March 26, 1996, periodic rental payments under the master lease agreement were
amended to reflect a new consolidated payment schedule as a result of an event
of default by the Company. Under the new agreement, the Company must make
monthly payments of approximately $119,000 in March and April 1996, $183,000
from May through October 1996 and $119,000 from November 1996 through January
1999. In addition to the amounts reflected above, the Company is obligated to
make interest payments from March through October 1996 at a rate of 15% on
certain past due rental payments under the previous agreement for a total
interest obligation of $26,000.
Other Leases
The Company leases office space for its corporate offices under operating
leases. To reduce overhead costs, the Company has moved to progressively smaller
offices on two occasions since January 1, 1994. The Company's lease for a 6,034
square foot facility in Irvine, California expired at that time, and the Company
moved and entered into a new lease for a period of 36 months at a smaller 4,300
square foot office in San Juan Capistrano, California. On November 1, 1995, the
Company downsized again and moved to a smaller 880 square foot office in Laguna
Beach, California pursuant to a 12 month lease with an option to extend the term
for an additional six months. On February 15, 1996, the San Juan Capistrano
office was subleased through December 15, 1996, the termination date for the
underlying lease. Net annual minimum lease payments at December 31, 1995 are
approximately $41,000 and $17,000 per year in 1996 and 1997. Rent expense for
the Company's corporate offices included in the consolidated statements of
operations amounted to $78,000, $84,000, and $125,000 for 1995, 1994 and 1993,
respectively.
For the years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993, rent expense under its
video lottery leases was $1,294,000, $1,203,000 and $790,000, respectively,
which is included in "costs of video lottery terminals" in the consolidated
statements of operations. At December 31, 1995, the Company has recorded
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<PAGE>
deferred rent obligations of $408,000 in the accompanying consolidated balance
sheet, which is included in accrued liabilities.
Future annual minimum payments under all material operating leases as of
December 31, 1995 are as follows, after providing for the amended video lottery
lease agreement described above:
Years Ended December 31,
1996 $2,075,000
1997 1,912,000
1998 1,915,000
1999 522,000
2000 113,000
Thereafter 212,000
----------
Total $6,749,000
Litigation
In 1995, the Company was served with a complaint by a former employee. The
complaint was not answered timely by the Company's counsel and as a result, a
default judgment was entered by the court in the amount of approximately
$308,000. Management has filed a motion to vacate the judgment. There are no
assurances that the motion will be granted or the Company will be successful in
defending the matter. Although management believes that the ultimate outcome
will not necessarily result in a payment of the judgment amount, the Company has
recorded a provision for loss of $308,000 in the accompanying consolidated
statement of operations during the year ended December 31, 1995.
The Company was served with a complaint in 1994 by a jockey who sustained head
injuries from a fall during a race at Mountaineer. The plaintiff is seeking both
compensatory and punitive damages. Although the matter is covered by insurance,
management has been advised by its carrier, after discovery that a jury could
award damages in excess of Mountaineer's $1 million policy limits. In the event
that such an award is made, the Company would be liable for any such excess
amount. Although management believes that the matter will ultimately be resolved
within the policy limits, there can be no assurance that it will.
The Company is party to various other lawsuits which have arisen in the normal
course of its business. Certain matters are covered by insurance, after the
Company meets certain deductible requirements, generally $2,500 per occurrence.
It is the opinion of management, that the liability, if any, arising from such
lawsuits would not have a material adverse effect on the Company's consolidated
financial statements.
Environmental Considerations
The Company has developed and is implementing a corrective action plan in
connection with leakage from underground storage tanks. Management has estimated
the cost of corrective action to be approximately $143,000 for the cost of
equipment to be installed in 1995 and 1996 and for remediation in 1996 and 1997.
The Company has recorded a provision for anticipated expenditures of $143,000 in
1995 under "selling, general and administrative" expenses, and has entered into
a service contract for the installation of equipment and future remediation
costs.
Common Stock Registration Rights
As of April 4, 1996, the Company is obligated to register approximately
4,077,991 shares of its common stock and 4,813,143 shares of its common stock
underlying certain options and warrants (see Note 9), which if not registered,
could have an adverse impact on the Company's future financial operations or
cause substantial dilution to existing shareholders. As discussed elsewhere, the
Company has certain price guarantees to sellers of its common stock, which as of
April 4, 1996, and based on a closing market price per share of 7/8, the Company
would have to issue approximately 5.7 million shares of its common stock.
Estimated costs of the registration are not considered significant to the
consolidated financial statements taken as a whole. There are no assurances that
such registration will be effected.
Pension Plan
Mountaineer has a qualified defined contribution plan covering substantially all
of its employees (the "Plan"). The Plan was ratified retroactively on March 18,
1994 by the legislature of the State of West Virginia. The Plan contributions
are based on .25% of the race track and simulcast wagering handles, and
approximately 0.5% of the net revenues of video lottery activities beginning
March 18, 1994. Contributions to the Plan for the years 1995, 1994 and 1993 were
$179,000, $106,000 and $102,000, respectively.
F-22
<PAGE>
Insurance Proceeds From Involuntary Conversion of Assets
In 1994, the Company experienced two fires at Mountaineer, believed to be caused
by arson, in which the Company received approximately $241,000 of insurance
proceeds. The Company realized a nominal gain based on the net carrying value of
the assets destroyed in the fire.
NOTE 8 - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Employment Contracts
Effective December 4, 1992 (acquisition date), Mountaineer entered into
management agreements with certain former shareholders. In connection therewith,
the Company granted options to purchase 400,000 shares of its common stock at
$.50 per share. At the time the fair value of the Company's common stock,
subject to transferability restrictions, was approximately $3.50 per share. As a
result, Mountaineer recorded compensation expense of $600,000 for the year ended
December 31, 1994; no amounts were charged in 1995. The agreements have been
terminated by mutual consent without further obligation of the parties.
In addition, the Company has entered into various employment agreements with
certain officers, key management and a consultant for periods of up to three
years expiring in 1997. The agreements provide for certain salaries, and stock
and stock option incentives (see Note 9) in the ordinary course of business.
Minimum annual salaries are approximately $523,000.
F-23
<PAGE>
Severance Agreement
On April 26, 1995, the Company entered into a severance agreement with its
former Chief Executive Officer. In connection therewith, the Company is
obligated to pay approximately $440,000 over a period of two years. In addition,
the Company repriced certain incentive options and is obligated to provide
certain benefits during the term of the agreement. Management discontinued
payments under the agreement due to their discovery of certain matters which
they believe nullify the agreement. At December 31, 1995, management has an
accrued liability of $400,000 which is included in "accrued liabilities" in the
accompanying 1995 consolidated balance sheet.
Notes Payable and Advances Receivable From Related Parties
The Company has a note receivable for $240,000 from a shareholder of the Company
at December 31, 1995 and 1994, as well as additional noninterest bearing
advances of $62,000 made in 1994. The $240,000 note receivable bears interest at
8% per annum, is due on demand, and is collateralized by certain shares of the
Company's common stock. No demand has been made by the Company's management
through December 31, 1995 as management believes recovery is doubtful. During
1995, the Company has recorded a provision for loss in the amount of $240,000
which is included in "selling, general and administrative" expenses in the
accompanying consolidated statement of operations.
In March 1994, the Company lent $50,000 to a company for a term of seven days in
exchange for a promissory note bearing interest at 8% per annum. The loan was
made upon the recommendation of a significant shareholder of both the Company
and the recipient. During 1995, the Company has recorded a provision for loss in
the amount of $50,000 which is included in "selling, general and administrative"
expenses in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations. In April
1996, the Company and the recipient renegotiated, cancelled the original note,
and executed a substitute and replacement confessed judgment promissory note in
the principal amount of $58,333 at 8% per annum, all due and payable August 4,
1996.
Notes Payable to Related Parties
During the year ended December 31, 1993, the Company fully paid certain 8% notes
payable totaling $401,000 to the former majority shareholder of Mountaineer (see
Note 2) and an existing shareholder of the Company.
At December 31, 1993, the Company had a $70,000 demand note due to an
officer/shareholder that bore interest at 6.25% per annum. The note was paid in
full in January 1994.
During 1995, the Company incurred salaries to key management, which remain
unpaid; at December 31, 1995, such amounts accrued were approximately $204,000.
In February 1996, management agreed to accept an aggregate of 466,676 shares of
the Company's common stock in satisfaction of the amounts due them. Such shares
have an approximate value of $204,000; therefore, no additional compensation
expense will be recorded as a result of the issuance of common stock.
NOTE 9 - SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Stock and Warrants Issued in Connection With Plan of Reorganization
As part of the Company's Plan of Reorganization, which was confirmed January 15,
1992, the Company issued certain warrants to purchase its common stock. During
the year ended December 31, 1993, the Company received $2,239,000 for the
purchase of 373,241 shares of its common stock as a result of the exercise of
Series C warrants. The warrants expired in March 1993.
Redeemable Common Stock
In connection with certain arrangements entered into by the Company as of
December 31, 1994 (see Notes 2 and 10), 367,937 common shares could have been
put to the Company at $6.00 per share upon demand. In 1995, 98,333 redeemable
shares issued in connection with its oil and gas activities (Note 10) were
satisfied through the issuance of 373,600 additional shares of its common stock
as reflected in the aggregate in the accompanying 1995 consolidated statement of
shareholders' equity. In 1995, 194,500 common shares valued at $212,000 were
issued for the cancellation of 104,500 redeemable shares with put rights of
certain holders of Golden Palace acquisition debt. In connection therewith, the
Company issued 276,750 redeemable shares which are subject to registration with
the SEC and have a guaranteed selling price of $1.50 per share at the time of
registration. At December 31, 1995, 441,854 shares of redeemable common stock
are outstanding.
In connection therewith, the Company has classified the put value of such shares
of $1,405,000 and $2,208,000, respectively, as "redeemable common stock" in the
consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 1995 and 1994. Management has
reflected the value certain of these shares as a current liability
F-24
<PAGE>
in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 1995 and 1994 to
the extent management believes these shares should have been registered. Amounts
reflected as noncurrent are based on scheduled payments in the event such shares
are not registered.
Common Stock and Options Issued for Services
From time to time in the ordinary course of business, the Company has issued
restricted common stock in exchange for services, interest and obligations. The
Board of Directors has determined the fair value of such shares based on 50% of
the value of freely tradable shares as determined through NASDAQ market
quotations. Such values are charged to operations or have extinguished
obligations depending upon the nature of the agreements.
During the year ended December 31, 1995, the Company issued 77,332 shares valued
at approximately $42,000 for services rendered, and the value of such shares was
charged to the 1995 consolidated statement of operations; also see following
paragraph for additional shares issued in 1995.
During the year ended December 31, 1994, the Company issued 50,000 shares valued
at approximately $110,000 for services rendered, and the value of such shares
was charged to the 1994 consolidated statement of operations. Also in 1994, the
Company issued 97,500 shares of its common stock valued at $100,000 to a
financial consultant to seek capital for the Company; in 1995, such shares were
cancelled by mutual consent of the parties. The value of such shares, included
in noncurrent "Accrued Liabilities" at such value, will be settled through the
issuance of common stock in 1996. In addition, the Company issued 10,681 shares
of its common stock for certain accounts payable valued at $40,000.
During the year ended December 31, 1993, the Company issued 197,787 shares
valued at approximately $619,000 for services rendered and letter of credit fees
for Jackpot, and the value of such shares was charged to the 1993 consolidated
statement of operations.
In connection with certain employment agreements (see Note 8), the Company has
granted to two former shareholders of Mountaineer an option to purchase 400,000
shares of the Company's common stock at $.50 per share. The options are
exercisable beginning January 1993 and expire January 1996. The excess of the
estimated value of these shares of $3.50 each over their option price is
included as compensation expense over the two-year term of the employment
agreements, as amended. Compensation expense included in the consolidated
statements of operations for each of the years ended December 31, 1994 and 1993
is $600,000.
During 1995, 216,667 shares were exercised for $108,000 of which $69,000 remains
unpaid. At December 31, 1995, this receivable from the exercise of these stock
options is shown as a reduction in stockholders' equity.
Shares Issued for Cash
From January 1994 through May 1994, the Company issued 727,866 shares of its
common stock for $2,193,000, net of commissions of $146,000 and 58,333
restricted shares of its common stock. The 58,333 shares were issued for a
capital raising activity and thus are effectively charged to consolidated
shareholders' equity. In 1994, the Company received $200,000 for the exercise of
options to purchase 50,000 shares of its common stock.
From July through December 1993, the Company issued 746,755 shares of the
Company's common stock for $3,280,000, net of commissions of $592,000 and
125,000 restricted shares valued at $250,000. The 125,000 shares were issued for
a capital raising activity and thus are effectively charged to consolidated
shareholders' equity. The 746,755 shares are exempt from registration under
Regulation S of the Securities Act of 1933, whereby nonresident, aliens of the
United States (i.e., foreign purchasers) may purchase shares with a 40 day
restricted period.
See above and Note 2 for a total of 286,667 shares purchased from the exercise
of stock options at $0.01 and $0.50, per share.
Stock Option Plans
In May 1992, the Board of Directors approved the grant of nonqualified options
to purchase 600,000 shares to certain officers and directors of the Company.
Each option entitles the holder to purchase one share of common stock at an
exercise price of $1.06 per share and is fully vested as of the date of grant.
The exercise price approximates the fair value of the shares at the date of
grant; such options expire in May 1997.
In October 1992, the Board of Directors adopted an incentive stock option plan
meeting the requirements of Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code. The plan
reserves 1,200,000 shares for issuance which were granted effective October
1992. The options are exercisable at the then fair market value of $4.875 per
F-25
<PAGE>
share (unless such options are granted to a 10% shareholder, in which case the
exercise price would be no less than 110% of the then fair market value), and
are exercisable over a period of five (5) years, subject to certain
restrictions. Options to acquire approximately 1,200,000 shares are exercisable
at December 31, 1995 and no options have been exercised to date. In December
1994, the Board of Directors adopted an amendment to reprice the options at
$2.00 per share; shareholder approval was obtained on September 11, 1995.
In May 1995, the Board of Directors approved the grant of nonqualified options
to purchase 823,047 shares to certain officers and directors of the Company.
Each option entitles the holder to purchase one share of common stock at an
exercise price of approximately $1.22 per share and is fully vested as of the
date of grant. The exercise price approximates the fair value of the shares at
the date of grant; such options expire in September 1998. Shareholder approval
was obtained on September 11, 1995.
In November 1995, the Board of Directors adopted, subject to shareholder
approval, an incentive stock option plan meeting the requirements of Section 422
of the Internal Revenue Code (see above for certain requirements under Section
422). The plan reserves 500,000 shares for issuance which were granted effective
January 23, 1996. The options will be exercisable at the then fair market value
of $.5625 per share, and are exercisable over a period of five (5) years,
subject to certain restrictions.
From time to time, the Company issued options and warrants (exclusive of the
options and warrants described in the preceding paragraphs) to unrelated
entities in connection with service arrangements to purchase shares of its
common stock at their estimated fair value ranging from $0.01 to $8.00 per
share, expiring at various dates through April 1998.
During each of the years in the three year period ended December 31, 1995, stock
options and warrants activity is as follows:
Shares Price Range
Available per Share
--------- ---------
Balance, January 1, 1993 3,388,176 $0.01-$6.00
Granted 315,000 $3.00-$8.00
Canceled (70,185) $3.00-$6.00
Exercised (373,241) $4.00-$6.00
---------
Balance, December 31, 1993 3,259,750 $0.01-$8.00
Granted 1,155,000 $3.00-$6.25
Canceled (605,000) $7.00
Exercised (50,000) $4.00
---------
Balance, December 31, 1994 3,759,750 $0.01-$8.00
Granted 868,047 $1.21-$2.00
Canceled (10,000) $8.00
Exercised (286,667) $0.01-$0.50
---------
Balance, December 31, 1995 4,331,130(1) $0.01-$8.00
=========
Exercisable at December 31, 1995 4,331,130
=========
(1)Includes options to purchase 130,000 shares of common stock at $0.01 per
share.
See Notes 2, 3, 5, 7 and 10 for additional transactions in which the Company
issued its common stock and Note 7 for discussion on commitment to register
certain common stock and the underlying common stock of options and warrants and
dilution impact.
NOTE 10 - DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
The Company acquired certain oil and gas interests as part of its plan of
reorganization in 1992. On March 31, 1993, the Company's Board of Directors
approved a formal plan of orderly liquidation to divest its oil and gas
operations. This decision was precipitated by several factors, including the
long-term potential of the Company's gaming operations and the anticipated time
to be devoted to it by management. In February 1993, the Company decided not to
continue to pursue funds in the public market to undertake the drilling of oil
and gas properties primarily due to the expiration of "Section 29" credits, a
credit against federal income taxes for gas produced from Devonian shale or
tight formations from wells commenced before January 1993. As discussed further,
the Company sold certain interests in these oil and gas assets in December 1994.
Certain interests are currently under rework, to be later sold after management
has enhanced the ultimate value of such interests.
The following is a summary of the significant accounting policies and a
description of other issues pertaining to the oil and gas operations.
F-26
<PAGE>
Significant Accounting Policies
The Company follows the successful efforts method of accounting for its oil and
gas activities. Costs of property acquisitions, successful exploratory wells,
all development costs, and support equipment are capitalized. Costs of
unsuccessful exploratory wells are expensed when determined to be nonproductive.
Production costs, overhead and all exploratory drilling costs are expensed as
incurred. The carrying value of proved and unproved reserves are subjected to a
"ceiling test" based on the sum of (a) discounted future net cash flows from
proven reserve estimates, (b) the cost of properties not being amortized and (c)
the lower of cost or fair value of estimated unproved reserves; impairment of
the carrying value of such reserves is charged to operations. Costs of
abandonment and remedial work are expensed over the life of the net future
production cash flows.
Depletion of the cost of producing oil and gas properties has been computed on
the unit-of-production method. Due to the Company's decision to discontinue
these operations, no depletion has been recorded adjusted to their net
realizable value.
The consolidated financial statements reflect the operating results and balance
sheet items of its oil and gas operations separately from continuing operations
pursuant to the plan of divestiture. The assets of the discontinued operations
are shown net of the allocated liabilities.
In 1993, management believed that the operations would have been sold within a
period of one to two years, but due to certain delays and cash flow
considerations, management was not able to complete its rework on the properties
in the state of Michigan within the time originally estimated. Management does
not intend to retain the interest for the purpose of operating the wells.
Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows and Changes Therein
Relating to Proved Oil and Gas Reserves
Standardized measures of discounted future net cash flows and changes therein
relating to proved oil and gas reserves are not presented since the Company does
not intend to produce any oil and gas on a continuing basis.
Remaining Oil and Gas Interests
The Company's remaining assets are located in Michigan, consisting of a 25%
working interest in a 64% net revenue interest in proved reserves; 34 wells
exist on the property which have been inoperative since the Company's ownership.
Fleur-David Corporation is currently in the process reworking the wells, which
upon commencement of production, is expected to enable the wells to generate
production of approximately 3,300,000 barrels (BBLs) of oil, over a period of
ten years, with approximately 65% of such reserves recoverable over a period of
four years. Leases, for which the 34 wells are located, are held by force majure
(by production).
In December 1993, the Company entered into an agreement with Fleur-David
Corporation, whereby the Company contributed its 64% (original interest) working
interests in proved reserves. Fleur-David assumed a note payable of $375,000,
plus accrued interest from the Company, and paid approximately $250,000 in well
lease maintenance costs. In addition, Fleur-David was granted options to
purchase 121,500 shares of the Company's common stock at their then fair market
value of $4.00 each. Fleur-David was also to provide substantially all the
expertise and fund 75% of the costs to perform rework and water-flood of
approximately $2,200,000. The Company's is responsible for 25% of such costs or
approximately $550,000 and will be paid through the proceeds received from the
exercise of the options described above, as well as cash available from
continuing operations.
Fleur-David also obtained a covenant not to sue for clean-up and abandonment
costs from the State of Michigan, as required by the joint venture, by
depositing $188,000 into an environmental escrow account required by the state.
The Company retains a 25% net revenue interest in the joint venture through the
joint venture. An adjustment to the carrying value of these oil and gas proved
reserves was not affected since the additional costs incurred, and to be
incurred by Fleur-David, enhance the value of the interest retained by the
Company by a corresponding amount.
The Michigan well sites require certain remedial activities, which include
abandonment costs. Management has estimated the cost of such remedial activities
to range from $1,200,000 to $2,000,000 should its current plan of operation with
Fleur-David not continue. Management expects to continue with its initial rework
and eventual waterflood project with Fleur-David to minimize the Company's costs
associated with remediation and abandonment of the wells. The Company's
estimated cost of rework and waterflood, as a 25% joint venture interest holder,
is $550,000, $297,000 of which has been paid through December 31, 1995, and the
remaining $252,000 included as a liability in the net assets of discontinued
operations in the accompanying 1995 consolidated balance sheet.
F-27
<PAGE>
Oil and Gas Leases
Certain leases were acquired in 1992 as part of the Company's plan of
reorganization from Biscayne Petroleum Corporation. On March 25, 1993, the
seller agreed to amend certain terms of the acquisition agreement, which, as so
amended, provided for the payment of $50,000 in 1993 and the issuance of 226,286
shares of the Company's common stock in satisfaction of the purchase price. The
March 1993 amendment also rescinded the issuance of 20,000 shares in December
1992 for $100,000 of debt and $20,000 of interest as reflected in the
consolidated statements of shareholders' equity. The purchase price remained
unchanged, after the amendment discussed above, at $2,000,000. The leases, held
by production, were assigned for consideration, along with the 77 wells
discussed below, in December 1994.
Oil and Gas Wells
Certain oil and gas interests, consisting of 77 production wells, were acquired
in 1992 as part of the Company's plan of reorganization from Biscayne Petroleum
Corporation. On March 25, 1993, the sellers agreed to convert the outstanding
principal balance of an unpaid acquisition note of $590,000, into 98,333 shares
of the Company's common stock subject to registration rights and a put right at
a price of $6.00 per share (see Note 9 "Redeemable common stock"), and payment
of $100,000 in March 1993.
In September 1994, the Company negotiated certain additional terms extending the
date by which the registration of the 98,333 shares was required to be effected
to March 31, 1995, as amended. However, because the registration was not
effected as of March 31, 1995, subject to the terms of the agreement, the
Company was obligated to pay $590,000, less the average market value of the
98,333 shares of common stock for a value of $123,000, or $467,000, in 12 equal
monthly installments, together with interest at 9% per annum beginning April 1,
1995.
On March 31, 1995, the agreement was amended to extend the payment term and
amounts such that the note will be interest only at 10% per annum from April 1,
1995 until October 1, 1995, at which time the outstanding principal balance was
to be amortized over 36 months with a balloon payment due on October 1, 1996,
together with unpaid interest thereon. On October 1, 1995, the parties agreed to
covert the entire principal balance of $467,000 into 373,600 shares of the
Company's common stock based on a value of $1.25 per share. In 1995, the 98,333
shares discussed above, plus the 373,600 shares (471,933) valued at an aggregate
amount of $590,000 are reflected in the accompanying consolidated statement of
shareholders' equity during the year ended December 31, 1995.
In September 1993, the Company recorded a provision of $1,471,000 for an
estimated loss on the disposal of its leases and 77 wells located in
Southeastern Ohio. The Company's estimate was based on the current conditions in
the gas market, estimated costs to prepare such sites for sale, lease
expirations (see reserve quantity information below) and sales commissions.
Related Party Transactions
Sale of Oil and Gas Leases and Wells
In December 1994, the Company entered into an arrangement to sell certain proved
and unproven gas reserves located in Southeast Ohio for notes valued at
approximately $426,000 to a party related to an officer and shareholder of the
Company. In connection therewith, the Company obtained two notes, a $300,000
note, bearing interest at 8% per annum, payable $10,000 per month beginning May
1995, and a $150,000 noninterest bearing note, payable based on 50% of excess
revenues over $10,000 per month from production, secured by the assets sold. The
Company recorded a loss on the sale of these assets of $567,000 which is
included in loss on disposal of oil and gas operations. At December 31, 1995,
the principal balance on the note receivable is approximately $386,000.
Notes Payable
During 1994 and 1995, various corporate affiliates of Mr. Arneault advanced an
aggregate sum of approximately $100,000 to ExCal primarily to cover overhead
expenses in connection with the maintenance of leases and other costs associated
with the Registrant's existing oil and gas interests in Michigan and former
interests in Ohio. In February 1996, such accrued amount, along with accrued
interest thereon at the rate of 10% per annum, was converted into a demand
promissory note in the principal amount of $100,218 payable to Mr. Arneault at
the rate of 10% per annum. No material overhead expenses are expected to be
incurred in 1996.
The following summarizes the net assets of the discontinued operations as of
December 31, 1995 and 1994 and the results of its operations for each of the
years in the three-year period ended December 31, 1995.
F-28
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Balance sheet items
December 31, 1995 and 1994
1995 1994
---- ----
<S> <C> <C>
Assets:
Cash $ --- $ ---
Receivable from sale of assets 386,000 426,000
Oil and gas activities -
Working interest in proved oil and gas
properties 2,582,000 2,582,000
---------- ----------
2,968,000 3,008,000
---------- ----------
Less liabilities:
Accrued liabilities (252,000) (350,000)
Payables to related parties (100,000) (42,000)
---------- ----------
Net assets $2,616,000 $2,616,000
========== ==========
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Results of its operations for the
years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993
1995 1994 1993
---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Revenues $ --- $184,000 $ 268,000
------ -------- ---------
Costs and expenses:
General and administrative --- 148,000 224,000
Operating costs, including depletion
of $100,000 in 1993 --- 109,000 226,000
------ -------- ---------
Total costs --- 257,000 450,000
------ -------- ---------
Loss from operations $ --- $(73,000) $(182,000)
====== ======== =========
</TABLE>
Reserve Quantity Information
Oil Gas
(in BBLs) (in MCF)
Proved developed:
Balances, January 1, 1993 2,134,800 1,095,530
Revisions of previous estimates --- (58,378)
Production --- (134,952)
--------- ---------
Balances, December 31, 1993 2,134,800 902,200
Revisions of previous estimates 1,180,000(1) ---
Production --- (99,000)
Sale of assets --- (803,200)
--------- ---------
Balances, December 31, 1994 3,314,800 ---
Activity --- ---
Balances, December 31, 1995 3,314,800 ---
========= =========
(1) In 1994, management determined that certain reserves existed in an
additional formation (Berea) which has been included in the Company's
reserve analysis.
NOTE 11 - INCOME TAXES
At December 31, 1995, the Company has net operating loss carryforwards of
approximately $23,000,000 for federal income tax reporting purposes and
approximately $5,111,000 for state reporting purposes, expiring through 2010.
The Tax Reform Act of 1986 includes provisions which limit the Federal net
operating loss carryforwards available for use in any given year if certain
events, including a significant change in stock ownership, occur. Because of
such limitations, the Company may only utilize net operating loss carryforwards
of approximately $1,500,000 per year for such losses of approximately $3,200,000
incurred prior to December 1992; additional limitations are believed to exist
between 1992 to 1995. Temporary differences are not considered significant,
exclusive of the differences (see below) in financial and tax reporting bases of
assets acquired from Mountaineer in a statutory tax-free exchange.
At December 31, 1995 and 1994, the deferred taxes of $1,529,000 and $1,662,000,
respectively, represent the nondeductible tax bases of assets acquired from
Mountaineer totaling approximately $4,900,000 net of depreciation. The benefit
for income taxes in the consolidated statement of operations for the years ended
December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 represents the tax effect of nondeductible
depreciation less certain minimum state taxes paid.
F-29
<PAGE>
The Company's only significant deferred tax asset as of December 31, 1995 and
1994 is approximately $8,700,000 and $6,800,000, respectively related to the net
operating loss carryforwards for federal and state tax reporting purposes. The
Company's valuation allowance at December 31, 1995 and 1994 was approximately
$8,700,000 and 6,800,000, respectively. The valuation allowance at January 1,
1994 and 1993 was approximately $3,467,000 and $1,079,000, respectively. The
difference between the federal income tax benefit using a 34% and the benefit
recorded in the accompanying statements of operations for each of the years in
the three-year period ended December 31, 1995 related primarily to increases in
the valuation allowances in each year.
NOTE 12 - SEGMENT REPORTING
The Company operates in two segments, oil and gas and gaming. The Company has
not presented segment information in accordance with Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards No. 14, "Financial Reporting for Segments of a Business
Enterprise" because its oil and gas operations have been discontinued, are
separately disclosed in the accompanying consolidated financial statements and
will not be significant in the future.
NOTE 13 - RACING OPERATIONS
The Company conducts thoroughbred horse racing at Mountaineer Park Race Track
and Gaming Resort. Under West Virginia Horse Racing Law, the Company's
commission revenue is a designated portion of the parimutuel wagering handle
(amounts wagered).
The Racing Commission authorized a minimum of 220 days of racing; the Company
was in compliance with this provision in years reported. The Company is subject
to annual licensing requirements established by the Racing Commission which has
been renewed through December 31, 1996.
In August 1994, the Company renewed its contract with the West Virginia
Horsemens' Benevolent Protection Association (HBPA) for a period of three years.
In connection therewith, the Company is required to provide average daily horse
racing purses of at least $22,500, as well as operate a certain number of races
per day based on criteria provided in the contract.
The Company pays purses for each race day to the horsemen and HBPA. The Company
receives a credit towards future purses for the difference of purses paid and
amounts earned by the horsemen and HBPA. The horsemen and HBPA earn a percentage
of the live and simulcast (satellite off-track wagering) race handle less
winning tickets and certain costs incurred by the Company, including certain
video lottery contractual expenses (approximately 15.5% of net video lottery
revenues) paid to the horsemen and HBPA.
The amounts paid in excess of the amounts earned are reflected in the
accompanying balance sheet as "prepaid purses" and totaled $352,000 at December
31, 1994. At December 31, 1995, purses earned in excess of amounts funded of
$85,000 are reflected in the accompanying 1995 consolidated balance sheet as
"accrued liabilities".
A summary of the parimutuel handle and deductions, including off-track wagering,
for the years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1995 1994 1993
---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Total parimutuel wagering
handles $ 39,819,000 $ 35,475,000 $ 40,961,000
Less patrons' winning
tickets (31,637,000) (28,246,000) (32,646,000)
------------ ------------ ------------
8,182,000 7,229,000 8,315,000
Less:
Parimutuel tax paid to:
State of West Virginia
and county (472,000) (442,000) (448,000)
Purses and Horsemen's
Association (3,447,000) (3,019,000) (3,544,000)
----------- ----------- -----------
Parimutuel commissions $ 4,263,000 $ 3,768,000 $ 4,323,000
=========== =========== ===========
</TABLE>
NOTE 14 - GAMING OPERATIONS
On March 17, 1994, the West Virginia State Legislature expressly authorized the
operation of up to 400 video lottery terminals through December 31, 1994,
subject to voter approval in a Hancock County referendum, which was approved on
May 10, 1994. The statute authorizing the operation of video lottery terminals
expires, unless extended, on June 13, 1997. In 1995, the Company received
approval from the West Virginia Lottery Commission (the "Lottery Commission") to
operate up to 1,000 video lottery terminals, and subsequently increased the
number of terminals in operation from 400 to 800.
F-30
<PAGE>
One half of all video lottery terminals must be located in the racetrack
grandstand and clubhouse, while the balance may be located at the Company's on-
site lodge, as long as parimutuel wagering is operated therein. The Company is
subject to annual licensing requirements established by the Lottery Commission
which was renewed through June 1996.
In connection with its video lottery operations, the Company had the following
gross wins and losses for the years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1995 1994 1993
---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Total gross winnings $ 55,988,000 $ 23,214,000 $ 16,736,000
Less losses (patron payouts) (39,509,000) (15,733,000) (11,443,000)
------------ ------------ ------------
Revenues - Video lottery
terminals $ 16,479,000 $ 7,481,000 $ 5,293,000
============ ============ ============
</TABLE>
With respect to the operations of video lottery terminals subsequent to March
17, 1994, the Company pays an administrative fee to the Lottery Commission not
to exceed 4% of video lottery terminal net revenues. After assessment of the
administrative fee, the Company is obligated to contribute legislatively
designated amounts to various funds. These amounts are included in "cost of
video lottery terminals" in the consolidated statements of operations.
Amounts contributed to these funds for the years ended December 31, 1995 and
1994 were as follows:
1995 1994
---- ----
HBPA purses (Note 13) $2,470,000 $1,070,000
Company pension plan (Note 7) 80,000 31,000
West Virginia tourism promotion fund 478,000 187,000
West Virginia Breeders' Classic fund 159,000 62,000
West Virginia general fund 4,780,000 2,371,000
Hancock County general fund 319,000 125,000
Veterans Memorial fund 159,000 63,000
---------- ----------
$8,445,000 $3,909,000
========== ==========
On June 2, 1994, the Company entered into a development agreement with American
Gaming Entertainment, Ltd. (formerly Gamma International, Ltd.) ("AGEL"), an
affiliate of Bennett, to provide services for development activities,
implementation of accounting and information systems and certain personnel
activities until AGEL was approved by the Lottery Commission. Upon approval in
October 1994, a long-term management agreement was executed.
Pursuant to the management agreement, the Company was obligated to pay 3% of
gross revenues, of video lottery and other non-parimutuel gaming and gaming
support operations, as defined, plus 8% of earnings before interest, taxes,
depreciation and amortization, as defined, from all operating activities of
Mountaineer. In the event of default by the Company, it would be required to pay
certain monies based on the remaining number of months through 1997, or in the
case of extension of video lottery activities by the State of West Virginia,
through the term of the agreement. The monthly base default fee begins at
$83,333. Management and consulting fees charged to "cost of video lottery
terminals" in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations during the
years ended December 31, 1995 and 1994 were $321,000 and $133,000, until such
time as a stay agreement was executed (see below). In addition, during 1994, the
Company advanced AGEL $300,000 which was used to reduce future management fees
and expenses. At December 31, 1994, prepaid management fees in the accompanying
consolidated balance sheet were $220,000.
The Company's management agreement with AGEL has been stayed pursuant to a stay
agreement effective June 30, 1995, and has been replaced by a consulting
agreement, dated July 1, 1995, until such time that Bennett complies with
certain requirements of the Lottery Commission. The consulting agreement calls
for American Newco, Inc. (owned by certain officers and shareholders of AGEL) to
continue to provide consulting services in connection with the Company's video
lottery operations at the rate of $10,000 per month, subject to increases of up
to $10,000 per month for additional services which may be provided, through
March 17, 1997. Fees under this consulting agreement are substantially less than
those which would have been paid under the original management agreement.
Should the stay agreement or the consulting agreement be terminated in
accordance with certain contingencies contained therein, the management
agreement shall also terminate. However, should the Lottery Commission determine
that Bennett has fully complied with its information requirements, then the
management agreement will be reinstated with the original terms as defined
above. At December 31, 1995, accrued consulting fees in the accompanying
consolidated balance sheet totaled $60,000.
F-31
<PAGE>
The personal involvement of the two shareholders of American Newco, Inc. as
consultants to the Company is a material element of the contract. Since
September 1995, neither shareholder has provided such services and, as a result,
the Company has paid no consulting fees since that time. Management believes
that such failure to perform constitutes a material breach of the Consulting
Agreement and a resulting material breach of the Management Agreement. Although
there can be no assurances, Management believes that the Management Agreement
will not be reinstated.
NOTE 15 - STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
The statements of cash flows exclude the effects of noncash investing and
financing activities for all periods presented. Supplemental disclosures of
significant noncash activities are as follows:
1995
In 1995, 202,833 redeemable common shares valued at $1,217,000 were satisfied
through 463,600 additional shares of its common stock (see Notes 2, 9 and 10).
Also see following paragraph for additional shares issued in 1995.
The Company issued 225,000 shares to Bennett for loan fees; these amounts, plus
285,000 shares valued at $1,710,000 (aggregate $3,060,000 of costs) were
reversed in 1995 due to the cancellation of the $6.00 price guarantee. In
satisfaction of such, the Company ultimately issued 1,020,000 additional shares
valued at $1,530,000 and relinquished its rights to the original 510,000 at a
value of $478,000. Such costs were accounted for as deferred finance costs,
interest and capitalized interest to its construction in progress (Notes 1 and
5).
During the year ended December 31, 1995, the Company issued 77,332 shares valued
at approximately $42,000 for services rendered, and the value of such shares was
charged to the 1995 consolidated statement of operations. Certain services were
rendered in 1995 which were to be satisfied through the issuance of common
stock; however, the parties cancelled 97,500 shares issued in 1994 which were
valued at $100,000. Such amounts are reflected as a reduction from stockholders'
equity with a corresponding increase in accrued liabilities.
In connection with the Jackpot settlement (Note 7), the Company issued 175,000
shares of its common stock in satisfaction of noncurrent accrued liabilities
totalling $414,000 ($525,000 accrued at December 31, 1994); approximately
$77,000 at December 31, 1995 are expected to be reduced through the issuance of
75,000 shares in 1996.
Certain finance fees totalling $997,500 (Note 5) which were accrued as deferred
finance costs in at December 31, 1995, were canceled due to the amendment by the
Company and Bennett. In addition in 1995, the Company issued 60,850 shares in
satisfaction of a note payable of approximately $43,000.
1994
During 1994, the Company issued 50,000 common shares for various services
rendered valued at $110,000. The Company also issued 10,681 and 97,500 shares of
its common stock valued at $40,000 and $100,000, respectively for certain
accounts payable and other current assets. The Company recorded compensation
expense of $600,000 as a result of options to purchase the Company's common
stock at below market values granted to two former shareholders of Mountaineer
(see Note 9).
From July 1994 to December 1994, the Company issued 285,000 common shares valued
at $1,710,000, accrued $200,000 in loan commissions to be paid in 1995, and
accrued $998,000 of construction financing costs which will be satisfied through
the issuance of common stock. Components of such costs of $1,568,000, $709,000
and $631,000 are excluded from cash expended for deferred financing costs,
buildings and improvements and interest expense, respectively.
In December 1994, the Company accrued a liability for the Jackpot settlement
costs of $525,000 which will be satisfied through the issuance of its common
stock in 1995.
See Note 3 for discussion of sale of investment and settlement agreement for
noncash transactions.
During 1994, the Company had certain noncash provisions, net of benefits,
reflected in operations aggregating a net benefit of $29,000.
1993
On January 1, 1993, the Company adopted SFAS 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes"
and, as a result, recorded deferred income taxes of $1,952,000 with a
corresponding increase to property.
F-32
<PAGE>
In April 1993, the Company issued 50,000 shares of its common stock valued at
$300,000 to acquire a 20% interest in a ground lease (see Note 2).
On March 31, 1993, the holders of $750,000, 8% convertible debentures elected to
convert their debentures and accrued interest of $82,000 into 416,197 shares of
common stock.
On March 25, 1993, $1,382,000 in debt related to oil and gas activities was
converted into 226,266 shares of common stock (valued at $792,000) and 98,333
shares of Redeemable common stock (valued at $590,000). In addition, 20,000
shares of common stock issued in 1992 for $100,000 of debt and $20,000 of
interest were rescinded.
In July 1993, the Company reconveyed land acquired in Cripple Creek, Colorado,
valued at $1,315,000, to the seller in exchange for long-term debt of $1,315,000
(see Note 2).
The Company issued 197,787 shares for various services rendered in 1993 valued
at $619,000. The Company recorded compensation expense of $600,000 as a result
of options to purchase the Company's common stock at below market values granted
to former shareholders of Mountaineer (See Note 9).
During 1993, the Company had certain noncash provisions, net of benefits,
reflected in operations aggregating $145,000. Such amounts were expected to
provide future benefits or were based on estimates at December 31, 1992.
NOTE 16 - SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Expanded Gaming Legislation
In March 1996, the West Virginia code was amended to permit game themes
depicting symbols on reels, commonly referred to as "line games" or "video slot
games". The legislation will go into effect in June 1996, unless vetoed by the
Governor of West Virginia.
Lease Amendment
In March 1996, the Company amended its master lease for its video lottery
terminals (see Note 7).
Bridge Financing
In March 1996, the Company entered into five short-term note agreements
aggregating $750,000 due in five monthly equal principal installments of
$150,000 each, commencing 30 days from the date of the loan. The Company
received an aggregate $570,000 of proceeds. In addition, the Company issued
75,000 shares of its common stock valued at approximately $50,000 as
consideration for the loan. Total interest costs on this indebtedness are
expected to be approximately $230,000 and will be charged to operations in 1996.
F-33
<PAGE>
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
----------------------------
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders
of Winners Entertainment, Inc.
We have audited the consolidated financial statements of Winners Entertainment,
Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1995 and 1994, and for each of the
three years in the period ended December 31, 1995, and have issued our report
thereon dated April 5, 1996; such consolidated report is included elsewhere in
this Registration Statement. Our audits also included the consolidated financial
statement schedule of Winners Entertainment, Inc. and subsidiaries. This
consolidated financial statement schedule is the responsibility of Company's
management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on this consolidated
financial statement schedule based on our audits. In our opinion, such financial
statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated
financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly in all material respects
the information set forth therein.
Corbin & Wertz
Irvine, California
April 5, 1996
F-34
<PAGE>
SCHEDULE II -- VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNT
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Balance At Additions Deduction Balance at
Beginning of s End of
Period Period
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Year ended, December 31, 1995 (1):
Provision for doubtful notes $ -- $ 290,000 $ -- $ 290,000
receivable (1)
Allowance for deferred tax $6,868,000 $1,592,000 $ -- $8,460,000
assets ---------- ---------- ----------
$6,868,000 $1,882,000 $ -- $8,750,000
Year ended, December 31, 1994(1):
Allowance for deferred tax $3,467,000 $3,401,000 $ -- $6,868,000
assets
Year ended, December 31, 1993(1)
Allowance for deferred tax $1,079,000 $2,388,000 $ -- $3,467,000
assets
(1) During each of the years reported, allowances for trade receivables were not significant.
</TABLE>
F-35
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CONDENSED AND CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
June 30, December 31,
1996 1995
---- ----
<S> <C> <C>
ASSETS
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 893,000 $ 807,000
Restricted cash 411,000 426,000
Notes receivable from related parties, net of
allowance for doubtful accounts of $290,000 62,000 62,000
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for
doubtful accounts of $112,000 and $70,000
for 1996 and 1995, respectively 224,000 174,000
Deferred financing costs 268,000 388,000
Other current assets 346,000 115,000
----------- -----------
Total current assets 2,204,000 1,972,000
----------- -----------
Property:
Land 371,000 371,000
Buildings 15,716,000 15,716,000
Equipment and automobiles 2,292,000 2,258,000
Furniture and fixtures 2,046,000 2,021,000
Construction in progress 989,000 519,000
----------- -----------
21,414,000 20,885,000
Less accumulated depreciation (3,525,000) (2,785,000)
----------- -----------
17,889,000 18,100,000
Net Assets of Discontinued
Oil and gas activities 2,616,000 2,616,000
Other Assets:
Excess of cost of investments over assets
acquired, net of accumulated amortization
of $896,000 and $770,000 for 1996 and 1995,
respectively 2,878,000 3,004,000
Deposits and other 27,000 55,000
----------- -----------
2,905,000 3,059,000
----------- -----------
TOTAL ASSETS $25,614,000 $25,747,000
=========== ===========
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
F-36
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CONDENSED AND CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
June 30, December 31,
1996 1995
---- ----
<S> <C> <C>
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current Liabilities:
Accounts payable $ 2,606,000 $ 3,474,000
Accrued liabilities 2,183,000 2,096,000
Accrued leases 610,000 161,000
Short term notes payable 718,000 0
Current portion of long term debt 3,727,000 2,536,000
Redeemable common stock 772,000 991,000
------------ ------------
Total current liabilities 10,616,000 9,258,000
Accrued Liabilities 343,000 490,000
Deferred Income Taxes 1,463,000 1,529,000
Long Term Debt, net of current 6,363,000 8,071,000
Redeemable Common Stock, net of current 246,000 415,000
------------ ------------
Total Liabilities 19,031,000 19,763,000
------------ ------------
Shareholders' Equity:
Common stock 2,000 2,000
Paid-in-capital 32,760,000 32,115,000
Receivable from exercise of stock options 0 (69,000)
Accumulated deficit (26,179,000) (26,064,000)
------------ ------------
Total shareholders' equity 6,583,000 5,984,000
------------ ------------
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY $ 25,614,000 $ 25,747,000
============ ============
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
F-37
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CONDENSED AND CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
June 30 June 30
------- -------
1996 1995 1996 1995
---- ---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Revenues:
Video lottery terminals $ 6,142,000 $ 3,892,000 $11,900,000 $ 6,843,000
Pari-mutuel commissions 1,157,000 1,151,000 2,165,000 2,048,000
Food, beverage and lodging 921,000 873,000 1,573,000 1,391,000
Other 303,000 305,000 463,000 542,000
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total Revenue $ 8,523,000 $ 6,221,000 $16,101,000 $10,824,000
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Costs and Expenses:
Cost video lottery terminals $ 4,083,000 $ 2,710,000 $ 8,028,000 $ 4,892,000
Cost of pari-mutuel commissions 1,361,000 1,393,000 2,497,000 2,644,000
Cost of food, beverage and
lodging 848,000 871,000 1,529,000 1,616,000
Cost of other revenues 276,000 304,000 492,000 522,000
General and administrative
expenses 883,000 1,380,000 2,078,000 2,481,000
Depreciation and amortization 407,000 317,000 866,000 620,000
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total Costs and Expenses $ 7,858,000 $ 6,975,000 $15,490,000 $12,775,000
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Operating Income (Loss) 665,000 (754,000) 611,000 (1,951,000)
Interest Expense (593,000) (344,000) (792,000) (760,000)
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes 72,000 (1,098,000) (181,000) (2,711,000)
Benefit for Income Taxes 33,000 32,000 66,000 65,000
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Net Income (Loss) $ 105,000 $(1,066,000) $ (115,000) $(2,646,000)
=========== =========== =========== ===========
Net Income (Loss) Per Share $ .01 $ (.07) $ (.01) $ (.17)
=========== =========== =========== ===========
Weighted Average Number of Shares
Outstanding 18,274,708 15,260,481 18,217,246 16,033,815
=========== =========== =========== ===========
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
F-38
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CONDENSED AND CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Six Months Six Months
Ended Ended
June 30, 1996 June 30,1995
------------- ------------
<S> <C> <C>
CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net Loss $ (115,000) $(2,646,000)
Adjustments to reconcile net losses to
net cash used in operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 866,000 613,000
Common stock issued and stock options
granted for services rendered 292,000 0
Common stock issued for interest expense 230,000 315,000
Provision for doubtful accounts 40,000 0
Provision for settlement agreements (208,000) 18,000
Deferred income taxes (66,000) (65,000)
Net Change in Assets and Liabilities:
Prepaid expenses and other (80,000) 450,000
Restricted cash 15,000 286,000
Net assets of discontinued operations 0 (26,000)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses (347,000) 973,000
----------- -----------
CASH PROVIDED BY (USED IN) OPERATING
ACTIVITIES 627,000 (82,000)
----------- -----------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Deposits and other 28,000 2,000
Capital expenditures (593,000) (3,573,000)
----------- -----------
CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES $ (565,000) $(3,571,000)
----------- -----------
CASH FLOW FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Principal payments (1,076,000) 0
Proceeds from issuance of notes payable 1,100,000 3,652,000
Proceeds from issuance of common stock 0 27,000
----------- -----------
CASH PROVIDED BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES $ 24,000 $ 3,679,000
----------- -----------
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH 86,000 26,000
Cash, Beginning of Period 807,000 1,057,000
----------- -----------
Cash, End of Period $ 893,000 $ 1,083,000
=========== ===========
</TABLE>
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
F-39
<PAGE>
NOTE 1 - BASIS OF PRESENTATION
The accompanying unaudited condensed, consolidated financial statements have
been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for
interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article
10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information
and disclosures required by generally accepted accounting principles for
complete financial statements. In the opinion of Management, all adjustments
(consisting of only normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair
presentation have been included herein. Operating results for the six months
ended June 30, 1996 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be
expected for the year ended December 31, 1996. For further information, refer to
the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the
Registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1995.
NOTE 2 - CONTINGENCIES
In 1995, the Registrant recorded a provision for loss in the amount of $308,000
for a legal settlement based on management's estimates. In June 1996, the
related lawsuit was dismissed upon payment of a $100,000 settlement. The
remaining $208,000 reserve was reversed in June, 1996, and is reflected as a
reduction in general and administrative expenses in the Condensed and
Consolidated Statements of Operations.
The Registrant has developed and is implementing a corrective action plan to
stop leakage from underground storage tanks at its Mountaineer Race Track and
Resort facility in Chester, West Virginia. In 1995, Management estimated the
cost of the plan to be $140,000, consisting of $60,000 in monitoring and
operational costs to be expended in 1995 and 1996, and $80,000 in capital
expenditures to be incurred in 1996. The Registrant recorded a provision of
$140,000 in 1995 for these projected expenses. The Registrant expended $45,000
relating to this contingency in the second half of 1995 and $59,000 in the first
half of 1996.
NOTE 3 - INCOME TAXES
The benefit for income taxes recorded in the accompanying statement of
operations for the six month periods ended June 30, 1996 and 1995 results from
non-tax deductible depreciation expense attributable to the purchase method of
accounting for the investment. At June 30, 1996, the Registrant has recorded a
non-current valuation allowance of approximately $8.7 million against its
primary deferred tax assets (net operating loss carryforwards for federal and
state income tax purposes). At June 30, 1996, the Registrant has approximately
$23 million in net operating loss carryforwards, however, as a result of a
change of ownership of the Registrant during 1992 due to issuances of the
F-40
<PAGE>
Registrant's common stock, the use of such net operating loss carryforwards
earned during 1992 through 1995 is subject to certain limitations.
F-41
<PAGE>
NOTE 4 - DISCONTINUED OIL AND GAS ACTIVITIES
BALANCE SHEET ITEMS
June 30 December 31
1996 1995
---- ----
ASSETS
Term note receivable $ 192,000 $ 236,000
Production note receivable 150,000 150,000
Oil and gas activities:
Working interest in proved oil and gas
properties 2,582,000 2,582,000
---------- ----------
2,924,000 2,968,000
---------- ----------
LIABILITIES
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (293,000) (252,000)
Payables to related parties (15,000) (100,000)
---------- ----------
NET ASSETS $2,616,000 $2,616,000
========== ==========
The Registrant's remaining oil and gas assets are located in Michigan,
consisting of a 25% working interest in a 64% net revenue interest in proved
reserves. Thirty-four wells are located on the property which have been
inoperative since the Registrant acquired the property in December 1992. The
well sites require certain remedial activities, which include abandonment costs.
Management has estimated the cost of such remedial activities to range from
$1,200,000 to $2,000,000 should its current plan of operation with Fleur-David
not continue. Management expects to continue with its initial rework and
eventual waterflood project with Fleur-David to minimize the Registrant's costs
associated with remediation and abandonment of the wells. The Registrant's
estimated cost of rework and waterflood, as a 25% joint venture interest holder,
is $550,000, $311,000 of which has been paid through June 30, 1996 and the
remaining $239,000 included as a liability in the net assets of discontinued
operations in the accompanying June 30, 1996 condensed and consolidated balance
sheet.
Related Party Transactions
Sale of Oil and Gas Leases and Wells. In December 1994, the Registrant entered
into an arrangement to sell certain proved and unproven gas reserves located in
Southeast Ohio for notes valued at approximately $426,000 to a party related to
an officer and shareholder of the Registrant. In connection therewith, the
Registrant obtained two notes, a $300,000 note bearing interest at 8% per annum,
payable at $10,000 per month beginning June 1995, and a $150,000 non-interest
bearing note, payable based on 50% of production revenues in excess of $10,000
per month, secured by the assets sold. The Registrant recorded a loss on the
sale of these assets of $567,000 in 1994. At June 30, 1996, the principal
balance on the term note is approximately $192,000, and the principal balance of
the production note is $150,000.
F-42
<PAGE>
Notes Payable. During 1994 and 1995, various corporate affiliates of Mr.
Arneault advanced an aggregate sum of approximately $100,000 to the Registrant's
ExCal subsidiary primarily to cover overhead expenses in connection with the
maintenance of leases and other costs associated with the Registrant's existing
oil and gas interests in Michigan and former interests in Ohio. In February
1996, such accrued amount, along with accrued interest thereon at the rate of
10% per annum, was converted into three demand promissory notes in the aggregate
principal amount of $100,218 payable to such corporate affiliates of Mr.
Arneault at the rate of 10% per annum. At June 30, 1996, two of the notes have
been paid and the principal balance on the remaining note payable is $15,000. No
material overhead expenses are expected to be incurred in 1996.
NOTE 5 - LICENSING
In June 1996, Mountaineer's video lottery license was renewed through June 30,
1997.
NOTE 6 - SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT
In January 1993, the Registrant entered into a financing arrangement with
Jackpot Enterprises, Inc. On March 2, 1995, the Registrant settled a claim by
Jackpot, effective June 25, 1994, by agreeing to issue shares of its common
stock with registration rights. The number of shares is based on a guaranteed
price of $512,500 divided by the closing market price per share on the effective
date of registration. The Registrant recorded a provision for loss of $525,000
in connection with the settlement which was included in the consolidated
statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 1994.
The Registrant issued 125,000 shares to Jackpot on the date of the settlement
and, for every 60 days the registration statement remains unfiled, the
Registrant is obligated to issue an additional 12,500 shares, up to a maximum of
125,000 additional shares. At June 30, 1996, 100,000 of such additional shares
have been issued; 37,500 of such additional shares were issued during the six
months ended June 30, 1996, to which a value of $52,000 was ascribed and charged
to accrued liabilities. The issuance of such shares has been, and will continue
to be reflected in the statement of stockholders' equity at no additional value
or consideration.
NOTE 7 - LONG-TERM DEBT
Construction Note Payable
In March 1996, Bennett Management & Development Corporation and its parent, The
Bennett Funding Group, Inc., filed for protection from creditors under Chapter
11 of the federal bankruptcy laws. The bankruptcy court subsequently assigned a
trustee to administer the affairs of the estates while in bankruptcy. The
Registrant has
F-43
<PAGE>
continued to remit interest and principal payments to Bennett Management &
Development Corporation under the terms of the construction loan agreement, as
amended January 1996. The outstanding principal balance of the construction note
payable is $9,633,333 at June 30, 1996. The Registrant paid $566,666 and
$638,000, respectively, of principal and interest relating to the construction
note in the first six months of 1996.
Term Notes
In September 1995, the Registrant entered into an agreement with its totalisator
system supplier to convert $461,000 of outstanding trade payables into a term
note. Under the terms of the agreement, the Registrant is required to make 21
monthly interest and principal payments of $17,800 and 8 additional payments of
approximately $17,800 on various dates through May 31, 1997. The loan, which is
unsecured, bears interest at the rate of 12% per annum. The loan is subject to
an acceleration clause and other financial disincentives in the event of
default. At June 30, 1996, the outstanding principal balance is $251,000. The
Registrant paid $157,000 and $21,000 of principal and interest, respectively, in
the first six months of 1996 related to this term note.
In May 1996, the Registrant reached a settlement agreement with the holder of
52,250 shares of redeemable common stock, valued at $313,000, as further
described in Note 9. Pursuant to the settlement agreement, the Registrant agreed
to pay $25,000 upon execution of the settlement agreement and delivered a
promissory note calling for a total of three payments of $5,000 due on August 1,
1996, November 1, 1996 and February 1, 1997; a payment of $50,087 on May 1,
1997; and a total of four annual payments of $40,087 due on May 1, 1998 through
2001. The promissory note, which is unsecured, does not bear interest. The
obligation to pay the amounts identified above was discounted at the rate of 8%,
and long term debt in the amount of $206,000 was recorded in the Condensed and
Consolidated Balance Sheet, as of June 30, 1996.
The Registrant charged $601,000 and $760,000, respectively, to interest expense
relating to long-term debt in the six month periods ended June 30, 1996 and
1995. The Registrant capitalized $267,000 and $1,027,000 of interest in the
first two quarters of 1996 and 1995, respectively.
NOTE 8 - SHORT TERM NOTES PAYABLE
In the first half of 1996, the Registrant entered into a series of short-term
note agreements with three lenders aggregating $1,100,000. Under the terms of
the agreements the Registrant is obligated to repay a total of $1,302,000 in
interest and principal in 1996. In addition, the Registrant issued 100,000
shares of its common stock, and warrants to purchase 50,000 shares of its common
stock at $0.80 per share, valued in the aggregate at $81,000 as
F-44
<PAGE>
supplemental consideration for the loans. The remaining principal balance of the
notes is $718,000 at June 30, 1996. Future principal obligations for the loans,
which are unsecured, are as shown below:
July August
1996 1996 Total
---- ---- -----
$600,000 short-term notes dated
March 22, 1996 $112,000 $106,000 $218,000
$250,000 short-term note dated
May 30, 1996 250,000 0 250,000
$250,000 short-term note dated
June 7, 1996 0 250,000 250,000
-------- -------- --------
$362,000 $356,000 $718,000
======== ======== ========
The Registrant charged $192,000 to interest expense relating to short-term notes
in the first half of 1996.
NOTE 9 - CAPITAL TRANSACTIONS
During 1995, the Registrant incurred salaries to key members of management
totaling $204,000 which remained unpaid at December 31, 1995. On February 9,
1996, the board of directors approved two agreements to issue a total of 466,676
shares of the Registrant's common stock in satisfaction of $186,000 of these
liabilities (plus accrued interest of $3,300 calculated at the rate of 10% per
annum) based on the closing market price of the stock on that day of $.40625 per
share. The agreements provide that for a term of one year commencing February 9,
1996, in the event the initial holders propose to sell any of the shares, they
shall be required to notify the Registrant of such intention and the Registrant
may then elect, at any time before the proposed date of sale, to purchase the
shares at the price of $1.00 per share, payable within two days after the date
of such election. Otherwise, the shares may be sold as proposed. In addition,
the Registrant shall have the right at any time to purchase the shares for a
price of $1.00 per share within two days after notice of its intention to do so.
In November 1995, the Registrant entered into an agreement to compensate a key
consultant for services previously rendered to the Registrant. The agreement
provided for the issuance of 200,000 shares of the Registrant's common stock to
the consultant and registration of the shares on From S-8 with the Securities
and Exchange Commission. The registration statement was filed on December 4,
1995, and the shares were issued effective January 19, 1996.
In November 1995, the Registrant's board of directors adopted an incentive stock
option plan meeting the requirements of Section 422 of the Internal Revenue
Code, subject to shareholder approval. In accordance with the plan, 500,000
shares were reserved for issuance on January 23, 1996 at an exercise price of
$.5625 per share, based
F-45
<PAGE>
on the closing market price of the stock on that day. The options are
exercisable over a period of five years, subject to certain limitations.
On January 23, 1996, the board of directors granted to its two outside
directors, Robert A. Blatt and Robert L. Ruben, non-qualified stock options to
purchase 50,000 shares and 75,000 shares of the Registrant's common stock,
respectively, at the fair market value of the shares on the date of grant of
$0.5625 per share. The options are immediately exercisable for a term of five
years.
On March 22, 1996, the Registrant issued 100,000 shares of common stock in
connection with the short-term financing described in Note 8 above. Such shares
were valued at the fair market value of $.8125 per share on that date, and are
being amortized to interest expense over the life of the related loan.
In 1992, the Registrant acquired all of the capital stock of Golden Palace
Casinos, Inc. in exchange for 4,311,000 shares of the Registrant's common stock.
With respect to 209,000 shares of such stock, the founders of Golden Palace
Casinos were granted put rights requiring the Registrant to redeem such shares
at $6.00 per share at the request of the holders ("Redeemable Shares"). On June
30, 1995, holders of 104,500 Redeemable Shares received an aggregate of 366,750
shares of the Registrant's common stock, of which 276,750 shares are subject to
conversion into notes at a value of $1.50 per share or approximately $417,000.
The Registrant negotiated settlements in the second quarter of 1996 with the
holders of the remaining 104,500 Redeemable Shares as described below and in
Note 7. As a result of these settlements, the Registrant recorded a $211,000
increase to paid-in-capital, reflecting the reclassification of 104,500 shares
to stockholders' equity. The $206,000 long-term note payable was recorded in the
accompanying Condensed and Consolidated Balance Sheet. There was no gain or loss
arising from the settlement agreements.
Pursuant to one of the settlement agreements, the Registrant agreed to issue
133,416 shares of the Registrant's common stock (the "Shares"). In the event the
average market price of the Registrant's common stock is less than $1.50 per
share for the 90 trading days following the effective date of the registration
statement, the Registrant will be required to issue that number of additional
shares required to satisfy the difference between $1.50 per share and such
average market price. If the Shares were not registered by June 30, 1996, the
Registrant agreed to execute a promissory note in the amount of $200,125 with
interest at 12% per year from the date of the note, payable in 24 equal monthly
installments.
So long as the Registrant is not in default with respect to its repayment
obligations under the promissory note, if such note is
F-46
<PAGE>
required to be delivered, then upon either (i) the registration of the Shares or
(ii) the eligibility of the Shares for public sale pursuant to SEC Rule 144,
then the Registrant shall receive as a credit against any amounts then due under
the note an amount equal to the average closing market price of the common stock
for the 90 trading days following the effective date of the registration
statement or the date the Shares become eligible for public sale under Rule 144.
Upon execution and delivery of the promissory note, the Registrant will have the
right to repurchase the Shares for $1.50 per share and would, upon such
repurchase, receive a like credit against the amount due under the note. The
creditor may extinguish the Registrant's right of repurchase upon notice,
resulting in a credit against the note equal to $1.50 per share multiplied by
the number of shares as to which the right of repurchase had been extinguished.
NOTE 10 - SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Finance Arrangement
On July 2, 1996, the Registrant's Mountaineer subsidiary entered into a
financing arrangement with a private lending firm for a working capital loan and
a commitment for first mortgage refinancing. The $5 million loan is secured by a
second mortgage on Mountaineer's real and personal property and is guaranteed by
the Registrant. The note evidencing the loan calls for monthly payments of
interest only at the rate of 12% per annum, and a default rate of 22% per annum.
The Registrant also agreed to issue the lender 183,206 shares of its common
stock and warrants to purchase an additional 1,141,250 shares at $1.06 per
share. The principal is to be repaid at the end of the three year term, during
which the loan is subject to, on each anniversary date, additional fees in cash
equal to 8% of the outstanding principal balance, stock equal to 5% of the
outstanding principal balance (valued at the average closing bid price for the
30 days prior to each anniversary date), and warrants to purchase 250,000 shares
of common stock at $1.06 per share. Certain restrictions are imposed limiting
the Registrant's ability to incur additional debt, make capital expenditures and
increase management's compensation, and anti-dilution provisions are included to
protect the lender in the event the Registrant issues additional securities at a
price below $1.06 per share without the consent of the lender or subsequent
holders of the warrants.
As part of the transaction, the lender also provided a one year commitment to
lend Mountaineer up to $11.1 million of additional funds to be used to refinance
the current first mortgage held by Bennett Management & Development Corp. The
commitment is subject to customary conditions, including negotiation of
definitive loan agreements. In connection with the financing commitment, the
Registrant agreed to pay a $110,000 commitment fee and to issue the
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<PAGE>
lender additional warrants to purchase 350,000 shares of common stock at $1.06
per share.
In order to assure compliance with provisions of the West Virginia Racetrack
Video Lottery Act concerning control over a licensee of the State Lottery, the
lender has agreed that it may not own, through the exercise of warrants or
otherwise, more than 5% of the Registrant's outstanding common stock unless and
until the West Virginia Lottery Commission either (i) approves the lender or
(ii) provides an advisory opinion approving an arrangement whereby the lender
may own but may not have voting rights to any shares in excess of the 5%
threshold. If the lender becomes disqualified after such Lottery Commission
approval, any shares held in excess of the 5% threshold, if registered, shall be
sold by the lender in the market; otherwise such shares may be put to the
Registrant at the then market price, payable in cash or a note with interest
payable monthly at 24% per annum and all principal due in one year.
The Registrant agreed to register the stock and warrants with the SEC, subject
to cash penalties if such registration is not initially filed on or before 90
days from the date of the loan agreement, and up to two additional cash
penalties if the registration is not declared effective before seven and nine
months from the date of demand therefor by the lender. All warrants are
exercisable for a term of five years.
Net proceeds after repayment of a $250,000 loan from an affiliate of the lender
pending the closing, due diligence and loan origination fees, fees associated
with the take-out commitment and the costs of the transaction are approximately
$4.2 million. The loan proceeds will be used by Mountaineer to retire a
substantial portion of its accounts payable, make future site improvements and
decorate the Speakeasy Gaming Saloon. The loan proceeds will also be used for
television and print advertising campaigns in the Pittsburgh and Cleveland
markets.
Commencement of Video Slot Operations
On July 3, 1996, Mountaineer introduced several offerings of classic casino
"slot" games on 350 of its 800 video lottery terminals. The new games are
offered in addition to Mountaineer's existing gaming choices of video poker,
keno and blackjack. Mountaineer earned an average daily net win of $139 per
terminal in the first 33 days following installation of video slot games,
compared to $68 per terminal during the same period in 1995. There can be no
assurance that the revenue levels generated immediately after the inception of
video slot operations can be sustained in future periods.
F-48
<PAGE>
Note Receivable
In 1995, the Registrant recorded a $50,000 loss provision in connection with a
short term loan advanced in 1994 to a company with a common significant
shareholder. In April 1996, a confessed judgment promissory note was obtained to
secure payment for the loan. Payment of $58,333, including interest at 8% per
annum, was due on August 4, 1996, however, no payment was made. The Registrant
is currently negotiating to collect the amount now due and will proceed with
legal action if Management determines that such negotiations become
unproductive.
F-49
<PAGE>
PART II. INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS
Item 14. Other Expenses of Issuance and Distribution.
The following is a list of the estimated expenses to be incurred by the
Company in connection with the distribution of the securities being registered
hereby, other than underwriting discounts and commissions.
Registration Fees........................................... $ 2,402.00
Accountants' Fees and Expenses.............................. $ 5,000.00
Legal Fees and Expenses..................................... $10,000.00
Printing Expenses........................................... $10,000.00
Miscellaneous............................................... $ 5,000.00
Total............................................... $32,402.00
Item 15. Indemnification of Directors and Officers
Under Section 145 of the General Corporation Law of Delaware (the
"GCL") a corporation may indemnify any person who was or is a party or is
threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action,
suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative
(other than an action by or in the right of the corporation), by reason of the
fact that he is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the
corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the corporation,
partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise against expenses
(including attorneys' fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement
actually and reasonably incurred in connection with such action, suit or
proceeding if he acted in good faith and in a manner he reasonably believed to
be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation, and, with respect
to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his
conduct was unlawful.
A corporation also may indemnify any person who was or is a party or is
threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action or
suit by or in the right of the corporation to procure a judgment in its favor by
reason of the fact that he is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of
the corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the corporation as a
director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint
venture, trust or other enterprise against expenses (including attorneys' fees)
actually and reasonably incurred by him in connection with the defense or
settlement of such action or suit if he acted in good faith and in a manner he
reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the
corporation. However, in such an action by or on behalf of a corporation, no
indemnification may be made in respect of any claim, issue or matter as to which
the person is adjudged liable to the corporation unless and only to the extent
that the court determines that, despite the adjudication of liability but in
<PAGE>
view of all the circumstances, the person is fairly and reasonably entitled to
indemnity for such expenses which the court shall deem proper.
In addition, the indemnification provided by Section 145 shall not be
deemed exclusive of any other rights to which those seeking indemnification may
be entitled under any bylaw, agreement, vote of stockholders or disinterested
directors or otherwise, both as to action in his official capacity and as to
action in another capacity while holding such office. The Certificate and Bylaws
of the Company are consistent with Section 145 of the GCL. The Certificate
provides that no director shall be personally liable to the corporation or its
shareholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director,
except: i) for any breach of the director's duty of loyalty to the corporation
or its shareholders, ii) for acts and omissions not in good faith or which
involve intentional misconduct or knowing violation of the law; iii) for acts
for specified in Title 8, Section 174 of the GCL, or iv) for which the director
derived an improper personal benefit.
In addition to the Certificate, the Company's By-laws provide
indemnification (the "Indemnity Provisions") for any person who is or was a
party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit, or proceeding
whether civil, criminal, administrative, arbitrative, investigative procedure by
reason of the fact that he or she was a director, officer, employee, fiduciary
or agent of the Company or served in such capacity with another entity at the
Company's request (such persons are defined as "Indemnified Party" or
"Indemnified Parties"). With respect to third party actions, the Indemnity
Provisions represent the Company's commitment to indemnify based on such persons
incurring expenses (including legal fees) judgments, fines, excise taxes, and
amounts paid in settlement based on civil or criminal matters. In the case of a
civil matter, the Indemnified Parties must have acted in good faith and in a
manner reasonably believed by that person to be in or not opposed to the best
interests of the Company. With respect to a criminal matter, the person must
have had no reasonable cause to believe that the conduct was unlawful.
With respect to derivative actions, Indemnified Parties are entitled to
indemnification for any and all expenses (including attorneys' fees) actually
and reasonably incurred by him or her in connection with the settlement or
defense of such actions. The Indemnified Party must show that he or she acted in
good faith and a manner reasonably believed by that person to be in or not
opposed to the best interests of the Company, except that no indemnification
shall be available if such person has been adjudged liable for negligence or
misconduct in performing his or her duties to the Company, unless the court in
which such action or suit was brought has determined upon application that,
despite the adjudication of liability but in view of all of the circumstances of
the case, the Indemnified Party is fairly and reasonably
II-2
<PAGE>
entitled to indemnification for the expenses the court deems proper.
Nonetheless, if the Indemnified Party is successful on the merits or otherwise,
he or she need not show that the applicable standard of conduct was met. If not
successful on the merits, any indemnification may only be made if the
Indemnified Party applies to the Company for indemnification and (i) a majority
vote of a quorum of the Board, or (ii) if a quorum is not available or even if
obtainable, or if a quorum of disinterested directly so directs, by independent
legal counsel in a written opinion, or (iii) by vote of the shareholders of the
Company.
With respect to both derivative actions and actions and third party
actions, the Indemnity Provisions also provide for the advancement of expenses,
including actual and reasonable attorneys' fees, incurred in defending or
investigating any action, suit, proceeding or claim, subject to a written
affirmation by the Indemnified Party or person requesting an advance for such
Indemnified Party that he or she has met the applicable standard of conduct and
that he or she will repay such advance if it is ultimately determined that he or
she did not meet the applicable standard of conduct.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company has discretion to impose as
conditions to any of the Indemnification Provisions, such requirements as may
appear appropriate in the specific case including but not limited to: a) that
any counsel representing the person be mutually acceptable to the Company and
the Indemnified Party, b) that the Company has the right to assume control of
the defense of such Indemnified Party, and c) that the Company shall be
subrogated to the extent of any payments made by way of indemnification to all
of such Indemnified Party's right of recovery, and do everything necessary to
assure such rights of subrogation to the Company.
The rights of Indemnified Parties under the Indemnity Provisions are
not exclusive of any other rights Indemnified Parties may have under the
Certificate, any agreement, vote of shareholders, vote of disinterested
directors, any liability insurance policies (which the Board in its discretion
may obtain) or otherwise.
Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Act may be
permitted to Indemnified Parties pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or
otherwise, the Company has been advised that in the opinion of the Commission
such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and is,
therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against
such liabilities (other than the payment by the Company of expenses incurred or
paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the Company in the
successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such
persons in connection with the securities being registered, the Company will,
unless in the
II-3
<PAGE>
opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent,
submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such
indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and will
be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
Item 16. Exhibits
The following are filed either as exhibits to this Registration
Statement or incorporated by reference to the exhibits to prior Registration
Statements and reports of the Company as indicated:
Exhibit No.
or
Exhibit Incorporation
No. Item Title by Reference
----- ---------- ------------
5.1 Opinion of Ross & Hardies E-1
23.1 Consent of Ross & Hardies (included in E-2
Exhibit 5.1)
23.2 Consent of Corbin and Wertz E-3
==============================================================================
Item 17. Undertakings.
The undersigned Company hereby undertakes:
(1) To file, during any period in which offers or sales are being made,
a post-effective amendment to this Registration Statement:
(i) To include any prospectus required by section 10(a)(3) of the
Securities Act of 1933;
(ii) To reflect in the prospectus any facts or events arising after
the effective date of the Registration Statement (or the most recent
post-effective amendment thereof) which, individually or in the aggregate,
represent a fundamental change in the information set forth in the Registration
Statement; notwithstanding the foregoing, any increase or decrease in volume of
securities offered (if the total dollar value of securities offered would not
exceed that which was registered) and any deviation from the low or high end of
the estimated maximum offering range may be reflected in the form of prospectus
filed with the Commission pursuant to Rule 424(b) if, in the aggregate, the
changes in the volume and price represent no more than a 20% change in the
maximum aggregate offering price set forth in the "Calculation of Registration
Fee" table in the effective registration statement.
(iii) To include any material information with respect to the plan
of distribution not previously disclosed in the Registration Statement or any
material change to such information in the Registration Statement.
II-4
<PAGE>
Provided, however, that paragraphs (1)(i) and (1)(ii) do not apply if
the registration statement is on Form S-3 or S-8, and the information required
to be included in a post-effective amendment by those paragraphs is contained in
the periodic reports filed by the Company pursuant to Section 13 or Section
15(d) of the Exchange Act that are incorporated by reference in the Registration
Statement.
(2) That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the
Securities Act of 1933, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be
a new Registration Statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the
offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona
fide offering thereof.
(3) To remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment
any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the termination of
the offering.
(4) That, for purposes of determining any liability under the
Securities Act of 1933, each filing of the Company's annual report pursuant to
Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act (and where applicable, each filing of
an employee benefit plan's annual report pursuant to Section 15(d) of the
Exchange Act) that is incorporated by reference in this Registration Statement
shall be deemed to be a new Registration Statement relating to the securities
offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be
deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
(5) Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the
Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling
persons of the Company pursuant to any provision or arrangement, or otherwise,
the Company has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange
Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act
and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification
against such liabilities (other than the payment by the Company of expenses
incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the Company in
the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such
director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being
registered, the Company will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter
has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate
jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public
policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of
such issue.
II-5
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the
registrant certifies that it has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all
of the requirements for filing on Form S-3 and has duly caused this registration
statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly
authorized in the City of Laguna Beach, State of California, on October 17,
1996.
WINNERS ENTERTAINMENT, INC.
(Company)
By:/s/EDSON R. ARNEAULT
Edson R. Arneault, President and
Chief Executive Officer
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated.
/s/EDSON R. ARNEAULT Director, President and October 17, 1996
Edson R. Arneault Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
/s/THOMAS K. RUSSELL Director, Secretary, October 17, 1996
Thomas K. Russell Chief Financial Officer
and Treasurer
(Principal Financial and
Accounting Officer)
/s/ROBERT L. RUBEN Director, Assistant October 17, 1996
Robert L. Ruben Secretary
/s/ROBERT A. BLATT Director October 17, 1996
Robert A. Blatt
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit
Numbers
5.1 Opinion of Ross & Hardies
23.1 Consent of Ross & Hardies
(Incorporated in Exhibit 5.1)
23.2 Consent of Corbin & Wertz
<PAGE>
Exhibit 5.1
October 18, 1996
MTR Gaming Group, Inc.
1461 Glenneyre Street, Suite F
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Re: MTR Gaming Group, Inc.
Registration Statement on Form S-3
Ladies and Gentlemen:
You have requested our opinion with respect to the public
offering and sale by certain selling stockholders (the "Selling Stockholders")
of MTR Gaming Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the "Company"), pursuant to a
Registration Statement on Form S-3 (the "Registration Statement") of up to
5,833,016 shares of the Company's common stock, $.00001 par value per share (the
"Common Stock") as described in the Registration Statement. Of the 5,833,016
shares of Common Stock, (i) 4,113,897 shares are outstanding and held by the
Selling Stockholders (the "Outstanding Common Shares"), (ii) 878,250 shares (the
"Warrant Shares") are issuable upon exercise of certain warrants held by the
Selling Stockholders (the "Warrants"), and (iii) 840,869 shares (the "Option
Shares") are issuable upon the exercise of certain options held by the Selling
Stockholders (the "Options").
In connection with this opinion we have examined the Company's
restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended; the Company's By-laws, as
amended; records of applicable corporate proceedings of the Company; and such
other documents as we have deemed necessary as a basis for the opinion herein
expressed. With respect to such examination we have assumed the legal capacity
to sign and the genuineness of all signatures appearing on all documents
presented to us as originals, and the conformity to the originals of all
documents presented to us as conformed or reproduced copies. With respect to
factual matters relevant to such opinion, we have relied, without independent
verification thereof, upon
<PAGE>
representations, oral and written, of appropriate executive officers, directors
and responsible employees and agents of the Company.
Based upon the foregoing, and in reliance thereon, and subject
to the limitations and qualifications set forth herein, we are of the opinion
that:
1. The Outstanding Common Shares are legally and validly
issued, fully paid, and non-assessable.
2. When issued and paid for in accordance with the
Warrants, the Warrant Shares will be legally and validly issued, fully paid and
non-assessable.
3. When issued and paid for in accordance with the Options,
the Option Shares will be legally and validly issued, fully paid and
non-assessable.
We consent to the use of our name in the Registration
Statement and the related Prospectus under the caption "Legal Matters", and we
consent to the filing of this opinion as an Exhibit to the Registration
Statement.
Very truly yours,
/s/ROSS & HARDIES
ROSS & HARDIES
<PAGE>
Exhibit 23.2
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
Winners Entertainment, Inc.
We consent to the use of our report included herein and to the reference to our
firm under the heading "Experts" in the Prospectus.
Corbin & Wertz
Irvine, California
October 17, 1996
