PROSPECTUS
6,985,348 Shares Filed pursuant to
SISKON GOLD CORPORATION Rule 424(b)(2)
Class A Common Stock File No. 333-07833
($.001 Par Value)
Of the 6,985,348 shares of Class A Common Stock ("Common Stock") of Siskon
Gold Corporation ("Siskon" or the "Company") being offered hereby (the
"Offering"), 781,250 shares are being offered by the Company upon the
conversion of outstanding Series 2 Class B shares, 4,000,000 shares are being
offered by the Company upon the exercise of outstanding Warrants, and 2,204,098
shares are being offered by the Company upon the conversion of outstanding
convertible notes. The 6,985,348 shares being offered by the Company were
issued in connection with the Company's private placement of Series 2 Class B
Common Stock and convertible notes completed in November, 1995 and another
private placement of a convertible note completed in May, 1996.
Siskon's Common Stock is traded in the over-the-counter market and listed
on the Nasdaq National Market under the symbol "SISK". See "Description of
Securities". On July 16, 1996, the average of the high and low price of the
Common Stock was $1.60, as reported on the Nasdaq National Market. The Company
will not receive any proceeds from the conversion of the Series 2 Class B
shares or convertible notes. Expenses of the Offering, estimated to be
$37,085.71, will be paid in full by the Company.
THE CLASS A COMMON STOCK OFFERED HEREBY INVOLVES A HIGH DEGREE OF RISK.
SEE "RISK FACTORS" AT PAGE 8
THESE ARE SPECULATIVE SECURITIES.
THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR HAS THE COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY
OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
UNDERWRITING DISCOUNTS
PRICE TO SERIES 2 CLASS AND COMMISSIONS PROCEEDS TO THE COMPANY{(2)}
B SHARES, WARRANT AND
NOTE HOLDERS{(1)}
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Per share. . . . . . . . . $ 1.75 to $4.00 $ 0 $ 3.50 to $4.00
Total. . . . . . . . . . . $ 15,000,000 $ 0 $ 15,000,000
</TABLE>
(1) Represents exercise price to Warrant holders at $3.50 and $4.00 per share.
(2) Represents proceeds to the Company assuming the exercise of Warrants to
purchase up to 2,000,000 shares of Common Stock at a price of $3.50 per
share and 2,000,000 shares of Common Stock at a price of $4.00 per share,
and before other expenses of issuance and distribution estimated to be
$37,085.71. All expenses will be paid by the Company. The Company will
not receive any cash proceeds from the issuance of 2,204,098 shares upon
the conversion of existing convertible notes or for the issuance of
781,250 shares upon the conversion of Series 2 Class B Common Stock.
The date of this Prospectus is July 19, 1996.
AVAILABLE INFORMATION
The Company has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the
"Commission") a Registration Statement on Form S-3 under the Securities Act of
1933 (the "Securities Act") with respect to the Class A Common Stock offered
hereby. The Company is subject to the informational requirements of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act") and in accordance
therewith files periodic reports, proxy statements and other information with
the Commission. Such reports, proxy statements and other information
concerning the Company may be inspected and copies may be obtained (at
prescribed rates) at the Commission's Public Reference Section, 450 Fifth
Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549, and at the Commission's Regional offices
at Northwestern Atrium Center, 500 West Madison Street, Suite 1400, Chicago,
Illinois 60661 and 7 World Trade Center, New York, New York 10048. This
Prospectus does not contain all information set forth in the Registration
Statement and Exhibits thereto which the Company has filed with the Commission
under the Securities Act and to which reference is hereby made.
INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE
Any statement contained in a document incorporated by reference herein
shall be deemed to be modified or superseded for purposes of this Prospectus to
the extent that a statement contained herein modifies or replaces such
statement. Any such statement shall not be deemed to constitute a part of this
Prospectus, except as so modified or replaced. There is incorporated herein by
reference the following documents previously filed with the Commission:
(1) The Company's Annual Report on Form 10-KSB for the year ended December 31,
1995;
(2) The Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-QSB for the quarter ended March
31, 1996;
(3) The Company's Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders held
on June 21, 1996; and
(4) Form 8-B for the registration of the Company's Class A Common Stock
pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Exchange Act.
In addition, all documents subsequently filed by the Company pursuant to
Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act prior to the termination
of the offering of the Common Stock offered hereby shall be deemed to be
incorporated by reference in this Prospectus and to be a part hereof from the
date of filing of such documents.
The Company will provide without charge to each person, including any
beneficial owner, to whom this Prospectus is delivered, on written or oral
request of any such person, a copy of any or all of the foregoing documents
incorporated herein by reference (other than exhibits to such documents).
Requests should be directed to: Siskon Gold Corporation, 350 Crown Point
Circle, Suite 100, Grass Valley, California 95945, Attention: Claudia J. Mack,
Secretary; (916) 273-4311.
PROSPECTUS SUMMARY
The following summary is qualified in its entirety by the detailed
information and financial statements appearing elsewhere or incorporated by
reference in this Prospectus.
THE COMPANY AND RECENT EVENTS
Siskon Gold Corporation (the "Company") is engaged in the business of
acquiring, exploring and developing for commercial production precious mineral
properties. The Company's assets include its ownership interests, joint
venture interest and royalty interests in various properties located in the
Western United States. The Company's primary assets are the San Juan property
located in Nevada County, California (the "San Juan Mine") and the Big Horn
property located in Los Angeles County, California (the "Big Horn Mine"). The
Company's address and telephone number is as follows: Siskon Gold Corporation,
350 Crown Point Circle, Suite 100, Grass Valley, California 95945; (916) 273-
4311.
Since receiving permits in June, 1993, the Company has been engaged in the
construction of the San Juan Mine and by the end of 1995 construction was
substantially completed. As of the end of 1995, construction of tunnels for
drainage and access to the ventilation shaft were completed, the underground
plant was constructed and installed, the main underground haulage ways were
constructed and additional definition drilling was completed. Since that time,
unanticipated delays resulted from the need to reinforce most of the
underground roads with crushed rock. In addition, larger dewatering pumps were
installed as a result of additional unexpected ground water flowing into the
mine. Additional funds from existing working capital were expended during the
first quarter of 1996 for equipment, a ventilation shaft, additional definition
drilling, sealing off an area of high water flows, increased bonding and
completion of the mine dewatering system. Recoveries of gold dore from the San
Juan Mine amounted to 4,825 ounces during 1995 and 7,482 ounces during the
first six months of 1996.
In March, 1996, the Company entered into a mining services agreement with
the Doe Run Company ("Doe Run"). Pursuant to the agreement, Doe Run is
obligated to provide management personnel, engineering, training and other
technical and systems services for the San Juan Mine. The agreement is for 27
months and provides for base compensation to Doe Run in an amount equal to 100
ounces of gold dore per month plus an incentive bonus for attainment of
specified development, cost and production goals.
During 1995, Siskon received the permits necessary for operation at the
Big Horn mine site. A mill site was purchased in Adelanto, California and a
use permit was received in July, 1995. However, the decision to approve the
project was challenged in court. After reviewing the issues raised in the
court filings the Company decided that it was a more cost effective use of the
Company's resources to request that the approval be withdrawn and agree to
prepare an environmental impact report ("EIR") on the mill site. The court
challenge was subsequently withdrawn and the Company is currently evaluating
other mill sites that may be more appropriate before starting the EIR.
Due to unanticipated delays and additional costs incurred in the
development of the San Juan Mine, the Company has been required to fund its
operations during 1995 and the first half of 1996 through debt and equity
financings. Although the Company believes that it has sufficient working
capital to operate the San Juan Mine during 1996, the Company does not
currently have working capital reserves sufficient to address any unforeseen
delays in achieving commercial production. Even though the Company believes
that it has substantially completed construction of the mine, no assurances can
be given that further delays may not be encountered which may require the need
for additional capital.
On November 15, 1995 the Company completed a private placement with
Vengold Inc ("Vengold"). The Company received $5 million from the private
placement which is comprised of $2 million for 39,062.5 shares of the Company's
Series 2 Class B Common Stock, $3 million principal convertible debt, warrants
to purchase 2 million shares of Class A Common Stock at $3.50 expiring on
December 31, 1996 (the "1996 Warrants") and warrants to purchase an additional
2 million shares of Class A shares at $4.00 expiring November 15, 1997 (the
"1997 Warrants"). The Series 2 Class B shares convert at the rate of 20 shares
of Class A Common Stock for each Series 2 Class B share into 781,250 Class A
shares priced at $2.56 per share. The Series 2 Class B shares automatically
convert to Class A shares at the earlier of (i) three years; (ii) Vengold's
voluntary election to convert; (iii) upon the payoff or conversion of
Vengold's convertible debt under certain specified conditions and (iv) upon the
transfer of the shares to a non-affiliate. The Series 2 Class B shares have
the same rights as the Class A shares except that the Series 2 Class B
shareholders have the right to elect two directors to the Board of Directors.
Under the terms of the Vengold Private Placement a Budget Committee of the
Board was formed to approve project budgets for the expenditure of the $5
million and proceeds from future warrant exercises. The Committee was
comprised of three directors, two of which were appointed by the Series 2 Class
B shareholders. If a budget prepared by the Committee was rejected by the
Board, the Vengold convertible debt was to become due, at the election of
Vengold, eight months after the rejection by the Board. Vengold agreed it
would not acquire any additional Siskon stock, conduct a proxy contest, join
with other major shareholders in such a contest or sell their shares for 120
days from the date of the private placement and Siskon agreed to not actively
solicit proposals from persons other than Vengold relating the transfer of
control or the sale of major assets for a period of 90 days (subject to certain
exceptions). For one year after the 120 day period, Vengold has a right of
first offer on any sale of stock by the Company, the Company's management and
the Seamans. For a period of three years the Company has a right of first
offer on the sale of Siskon stock held by Vengold.
During 1995 the Company borrowed an additional $3 million from Carl and
Linda Seaman (the "Seamans"), holders of existing convertible debt issued by
the Company, extended the maturity date of the borrowings to April 1, 1997 and
changed the interest rate to 10% per annum effective October 1, 1995. In
connection with the Vengold private placement on November 15, 1995, the Seamans
agreed to convert $1.8 million of the convertible debt held by them into
707,678 shares of Common Stock at $2.56 per share, agreed to convert an
additional $1.8 million of convertible debt into 517,616 shares of Common Stock
at $3.50 per share if, and when, Vengold exercised its 1996 Warrants, receive
interest at 10% per annum payable in Common Stock at $2.56 per share for two
years and in cash thereafter, and extend the maturity date of the debt to
November 15, 1998. The debt continues to be secured by the Big Horn and San
Juan Mines.
On May 17, 1996, the Board of Directors determined that the Vengold
proceeds had been fully expended. On May 20, 1996 the two directors appointed
by Vengold resigned and the Board dissolved the Budget Committee. Additionally,
to increase working capital to a more prudent level, the Company borrowed
$500,000 from Carl Seaman. The loan will be secured by the San Juan and Big
Horn mines. The loan is due November 15, 1998, bears interest at a rate of ten
percent per annum with the principal and interest convertible into Class A
Common Stock at $1.75 per share. In connection with this loan, Mr. Seaman was
granted the option to convert an equal amount of the Seamans' existing
convertible debt into Class A Common Stock at the same price. If a private
placement is completed prior to the due date at a price below $1.75 per share,
the Seamans would have the right to change the conversion price to the same as
that under the private placement.
Total pre-production development costs and related plant and equipment are
budgeted to be $19.8 million, net of estimated gold recoveries of $4.4 million.
At March 31, 1996 such costs totalled $18.9 million. The increase in
development costs from the Company's original estimate of $8.3 million is
primarily attributable to the delay in the construction of the access tunnel
resulting from unforeseen unfavorable rock conditions with a commensurate
extended period of mine support, equipment maintenance and mine administration.
Additional power delivery facilities were constructed and mining equipment was
purchased. The expense for such construction and purchase was originally
anticipated to be incurred after production commenced. Further delays resulted
from the need to reinforce most of the underground roads with crushed rock and
to install larger dewatering pumps as a result of additional ground water
flowing into the mine. The difficulty in obtaining qualified and experienced
miners resulted in greater than expected training costs which, in turn, may
require longer periods of on the job experience before expected levels of
productivity are attained. Also, the majority of the development work for the
underground workings did not occur in the high grade zones.
Since the start of construction of the San Juan Mine, the Company has
improved or replaced eight domestic wells on property adjacent to the project.
The construction of the mine has raised concerns from neighbors of whether the
development of the mine is adversely affecting their wells, although prior
hydrology reports indicate that the dewatering activities at the mine should
not have a significant effect on adjacent wells. These water concerns were
raised at the bi-annual Nevada County Planning Commission ("Commission") permit
review meeting held on December 8, 1995. Further, Nevada County increased the
remedial water supply bonds by $135,000 to $189,000. In light of the concerns
raised, the Company engaged additional hydrologists to study the problem. A
hydrology report was presented to the Commission on June 27, 1996. The results
of the new study indicate that while there is a connection between the water
pumped from the mine and some of the failed wells, there have been no recent
well failures and that if any future wells do fail the Company could improve or
replace such wells as it has previously done. Conclusion of the review of the
operating permits by the Commission is scheduled for August 22, 1996 and the
Company is continuing to operate the San Juan Mine under the original terms and
conditions of the operating permit. Based on current information known to the
Company and as a forward looking statement, the Company believes that it can
mitigate future well failures by improving or replacing such wells, or by
providing an alternative water supply, and that the financial condition of the
Company will not be materially impacted by the mitigation measures. The
foregoing assumes that the analysis and conclusions contained in the
independent hydrology reports are, in fact, correct. No assurance can be given
that in the event the operation of the San Juan Mine is determined to adversely
affect surrounding neighbors' wells the Commission will allow the Company to
address such concerns through replacement wells, additional conditions to San
Juan's operating permit, or increases in bonds.
The Company estimates that an additional $877,000 will be expended for
development and equipment at the San Juan Mine during the second quarter of
1996.
As of March 31, 1996, the carrying values of the San Juan property
consisted of acquisition costs (including land) of $6,402,494, and deferred
development costs of $13,426,452.
As of March 31, 1996, the carrying values of the Big Horn property
consisted of acquisition costs (including land) of $732,360 and deferred
development costs of $322,871.
ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS
Mineral exploration and production is subject to environmental regulation
by federal, state and county authorities. In most states, mineral exploration
and production is regulated by conservation laws and other statutes and
regulations relating to exploration procedures, reclamation, safety of mine
operations, employee health and safety, use of explosives, air and water
quality standards, noxious odors, noise, dust and other environmental
protection controls. In addition, some of the Company's properties are
historic gold mines operated by other companies before the enactment of modern
environmental laws. Therefore, under certain circumstances, the Company could
be deemed a "potentially responsible party," together with all other past
owners and operators of the property, for purposes of environmental clean-up
and other environmental matters related to such properties. There are three
instances in which the Company has been contacted by governmental agencies with
regard to environmental matters.
In May, 1991, the Company was requested by the California Regional Water
Quality Control Board ("CRWQCB") to prepare an environmental site assessment
report on the Croman Mill Site which contains stockpiled tailings from milling
operations conducted by others. In a series of correspondence, the last of
which was a letter in March 1992, the Company submitted information to CRWQCB
stating that the Company was not the owner of the property during the time in
question and therefore not responsible for any damages and that the CRWQCB
instead request the operator of the mill to prepare the report. The Company
has yet to receive a response from CRWQCB to its March 1992 letter. On April
5, 1996 the Company received a request by the Environmental Protection Agency
("EPA") to visit the site for the purposes of collecting water and soil
samples. A representative of the Company accompanied state and federal
environmental officials during the site visit, which occurred on April 19,
1996. Several soil and water samples were taken by officials during the visit.
Simultaneously, the Company also conducted limited sampling of the water and
soil at the mill site. In the event that the test results lead to further
testing and analysis which ultimately results in a clean-up or abatement order
issued by a state or federal environmental agency, then the Company intends to
seek indemnification from the prior operators of the property which may have
been primarily responsible for the condition of the mine tailings located on
the mill site. No assurances can be given, however, that such efforts to be
indemnified will be successful. The Company sold the Croman Mill Site in June,
1996.
In March, 1994, the Company received a preliminary notice from the U.S.
Forest Service ("USFS") naming the Company and six other parties as potentially
responsible parties to a hazardous substance release in Siskiyou County,
California. The hazardous release is alleged to be coming from old mill
tailings, storage containers and a mine tunnel. One of the sites may have been
the Siskon Mine. In September, 1995 the Company provided the USFS with certain
requested information regarding the Company's knowledge of prior owners,
operators and operations that were carried out in or near the area in question.
In September 1995, the Company received a letter from the USFS requesting a
field visit to the Siskon Mine. As of June 30, 1996, the USFS has yet to
contact the Company, to set a date for the site visit. The Company is unable to
determine whether it will be liable for environmental remediation or estimate
the amount of any liability. In the event that the Company is issued a clean
up or abatement order due to a "pre-existing" condition, the Company will seek
indemnification from the prior operators of the property which may have been
primarily responsible. No assurances can be given, however, that such efforts
to be indemnified will be successful.
On November 14, 1995, the CRWQCB issued a letter to the Company concluding
that the volume of water being discharged from the San Juan Mine was in excess
of the permitted amount and may require an amendment or supplement to the
existing water discharge permit on a permanent or temporary basis.
Subsequently, on January 7, 1996 the Company received an interim dewatering
permit. An area of high water flow into the mine has been sealed off and other
remediation steps have been taken which the Company believes have brought the
discharges of water from the mine into compliance with the original permit. To
meet the long term potential discharge requirements of the San Juan Mine, the
Company will seek to obtain an amendment to the water discharge permit.
Additionally, at a bi-annual Nevada County Planning Commission hearing to
review the Company's permit to operate the San Juan Mine, issues were raised
concerning the mine's affect on adjacent water wells. The Company has obtained
a hydrology report to present to the Commission. See "Mining Operations - San
Juan."
THE OFFERING
Common Stock offered to Series 2 Class B Shareholders..................781,250
Common Stock offered to Warrant Holders..............................4,000,000
Common Stock offered to Convertible Note Holders.....................2,204,098
Common Stock outstanding before the Offering........................10,733,517
Common Stock outstanding after conversion of all
Convertible Notes and Series 2 Class B Stock........................13,718,865
Common Stock outstanding after conversion of all Convertible Notes and
Series 2 Class B Stock and assuming exercise of the outstanding
warrants............................................................17,718,865
NASDAQ Symbol.............................................................SISK
RISK FACTORS
An investment in the Common Stock described herein entails a number of
very significant risks. Because of these risks, funds should be invested only
by persons able to bear the risk of and withstand the loss of their entire
investment. Prospective investors should also consider the following before
making an investment decision.
LACK OF PROFITABILITY. The Company and its predecessors have incurred
operating losses since their formation and no assurances can be given that the
Company will achieve profitability. For the three month period ended March 31,
1996 and years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993, the Company incurred
losses of $251,106, $703,571, $840,591 and $9,286,718 (the last amount includes
a cumulative loss effect of $5,544,867 due to a change in accounting policy
whereby exploration costs are expensed), respectively. See the Company's
financial statements attached to its Form 10-KSB for the year ended December
31, 1995, and its Form 10-QSB for the quarter ended March 31, 1996, all of
which are incorporated herein by reference.
NEED FOR ADDITIONAL FINANCING. Due to unstable ground conditions and
water conditions, development of the San Juan Mine has been delayed which has
required the Company to use substantial capital to fund the San Juan Mine and
the Company's operations. In the event that development of the San Juan Mine
is further delayed, or in the event unforeseen costs arise, the Company will
need additional working capital to place the San Juan Mine into production and
to further advance the permitting process on the Big Horn Mine. The Company
does not have on hand sufficient capital to complete the development of the Big
Horn Mine. In the opinion of management, the Company may not have an adequate
working capital reserve against unbudgeted development expenses at the San Juan
Mine. No assurances can be given that the Company will be successful in
establishing an adequate working capital reserve relating to the development of
the San Juan Mine or, if it is successful, that the financing will be on terms
and conditions favorable to the Company. Furthermore, the Convertible Notes,
as amended, issued by the Company and secured by the Company's San Juan Mine
and Big Horn Mine, will mature on November 15, 1998, at which time all
principal and accrued and deferred interest will be due, unless the notes are
further modified or extended or the holders convert the debt into shares of the
Company's Common Stock. Assuming no further modification, total interest and
principal due at the maturity of the Convertible Notes will be $8,308,947. In
the event the debt is not converted and the maturity date is not further
extended, the Company's major mining properties may be subject to foreclosure
if the Company is unable to repay the Convertible Notes in full. See "Risk
Factors - Security Interests in San Juan and Big Horn Mines."
Under California law, the holders of the Convertible Notes may foreclose
by exercising the power of sale given in the deed of trust (a "nonjudicial
foreclosure") or by bringing a judicial action (a "judicial foreclosure") to
foreclose on the San Juan and Big Horn mines and, if allowed, ask the court for
a judgement to collect any amount of the debt that is not paid by the proceeds
from the foreclosure sale.
GOVERNMENTAL REGULATION. The Company's mining operations are subject to
substantial governmental regulation, including federal, state and local
regulations concerning mine safety and environmental protection. Compliance
with these regulations may cause significant delays in the Company's permit
process or in its operations and has resulted and may continue to result in
substantial capital expenses. No assurances can be given that the Company will
obtain the necessary permits to place the Big Horn Mine into production, and if
such permits are obtained, that they will be obtained in a timely manner. See
"Risk Factors" - "Environmental Regulation and Liability".
RESERVES. The Company's reserves presented in this Prospectus or
incorporated herein are estimates based on feasibility studies and no assurance
can be given that the indicated amount of gold will be recovered. The amount
of reserves may require revisions based on actual production experience.
Fluctuations in the market price of gold, as well as increased production costs
or reduced recovery rates and adverse ground and water conditions may render
reserves containing relatively lower grades of mineralization uneconomical to
recover and may ultimately result in a restatement of reserves.
ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATION AND LIABILITY. Mineral exploration and
production is subject to environmental regulation by federal, state and county
authorities. In most states, mineral exploration and production are regulated
by conservation laws and other statutes and regulations relating to exploration
procedures, reclamation, safety of mine operations, employee health and safety,
use of explosives, air and water quality standards, noxious odors, noise, dust
and other environmental protection controls. In addition, some of the
Company's properties are historic gold mines operated by other companies before
the enactment of modern environmental laws. For example, one property
previously owned by the Company and sold in June, 1996, known as the Croman
Mill Site, located in Siskiyou County, California, contains stockpiled tailings
(material removed from a milling circuit after separation of the valuable
minerals) from previous milling operations conducted by prior owners who
operated the mine. In May, 1991, the California Regional Water Quality Control
Board requested the Company to prepare an environmental site assessment report
(a report prepared by an independent geological engineering firm that addresses
all site conditions including hydrology and hydrogeological conditions) on the
property. Although the Company received correspondence from the California
Regional Water Quality Control Board and exchanged correspondence during the
time period between May, 1991 and March, 1992, no further activity from
environmental agencies had occurred until the Company received a request by the
Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") to visit the site for the purposes of
collecting water and soil samples. A representative of the Company accompanied
state and federal environmental officials during the site visit, which occurred
on April 19, 1996. Several soil and water samples were taken by officials
during the visit. Simultaneously, the Company also conducted limited sampling
of the water and soil at the mill site. In the event that the test results
lead to further testing and analysis which ultimately results in a clean-up or
abatement order issued by a state or federal environmental agency, then the
Company intends to seek indemnification from the prior operators of the
property which may have been primarily responsible for the condition of the
mine tailings located on the mill site. While the Company sold the property to
a third party in June, 1996 and is not currently subject to any such clean-up
or abatement orders, no assurances can be given that such an order may not be
issued at some future date. Another area of potential exposure to
environmental liability is the Company's prior ownership of the Siskon Mine
located in Siskiyou County, California. In February, 1994, the Company was
notified by the U.S. Forest Service that the Company, along with several other
companies, may be a "potentially responsible party" in what appears to be some
environmental contamination on the property. In September 1994, the Company
provided the U.S. Forest Service with certain requested information. In
September 1995 the Company received a letter from the U.S. Forest Service
requesting a field visit to the Siskon Mine. No date has yet been determined
for the field visit. In the event that the Company is issued a clean-up or
abatement order on any property due to a "pre-existing" condition, the Company
will seek indemnification from the prior operators of the property which may
have been primarily responsible for the environmental hazard. See Annual Report
on Form 10-KSB for the year ended December 31, 1995. No assurances can be
given, however, that such effort to be indemnified will be successful.
In connection with receiving necessary permits for mining a property, the
Company is required to post bonds to secure the performance of reclamation work
after the Company has determined that it is no longer economically feasible to
mine the property. The total amount of the bonds for the San Juan Mine is
$250,772 which has been paid.
RISKS IN MINING OPERATIONS. The Company's activities will be subject to
all the risks and hazards commonly associated with mining operations,
including, but not limited to, cost overruns due to the under estimation of
exploration, development and mining operation costs, over estimation of
contained gold per ton of ore or bank cubic yards, delays in achieving
production, unforeseen geological formations, cave-ins, flooding, environmental
liabilities and personal injury, any or all of which could prevent the Company
from putting a property into production. Furthermore, extensive growth in
underground mining in the Western United States has led to more intense
competition for experienced miners, and certain established mining companies
are larger and better capitalized than the Company, which may hinder the
Company's ability to attract and retain qualified miners in numbers sufficient
to support the Company's proposed operations and any future expansion of
operations.
VOLATILE MARKET PRICES FOR GOLD. Since its deregulation, the market price
for gold has been highly speculative and volatile. Instability in the price of
gold may affect the profitability of the Company's operations. No assurances
can be given that any gold may be produced at a profit given the volatile
market price for gold. For the period beginning January 1, 1996 to June 30,
1996, the high and low price of gold was $416 and $383 per ounce respectively.
As of June 30, 1996 the market price of gold was $383 per ounce.
VOLATILE MARKET FOR COMMON STOCK. The Company's Common Stock is listed
and traded on the Nasdaq National Market, and has traded in the range of $1.88
to $4.50 during the fiscal year ended December 31, 1995 and $1.75 to $3.75
during the six months ended June 30, 1996. Various factors, including the
price of gold, value of the dollar, and other non-controllable events, will
affect the market for stock in companies engaged in gold mining activity. In
addition to those normal factors, the Company has issued Convertible Notes in
the aggregate principal amount of approximately $8,308,947 as of June 30, 1996
which will be due on November 15, 1998, all or part of which may also be
converted into shares of the Company's Common Stock at $1.75 to 3.50 per share
including all accrued interest. Accordingly, the current market price for a
share of Common Stock may affect the Convertible Note Holders' decision to
convert such notes into Common Stock, and any conversion and subsequent sale
may also impact the market price for the Company's shares. The Company can
give no assurances as to whether the debt will be converted or, if so, what
effect any such conversion would have on the market price for the Company's
shares. See "Risk Factors -Need for Additional Financing."
DEPENDENCE ON KEY PERSONNEL AND CONSULTANTS. The Company depends, and
will continue to depend, on the services of Mr. Timothy A. Callaway, the
Company's Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Michael K. Epstein, the Company's Chief
Financial Officer, and Mr. Charles D. Snead, Jr., a director and consultant to
the Company. The loss of the services of Messrs. Callaway, Epstein or Snead
could have a material adverse effect on the business of the Company. The
Company has considered acquiring "key-man" insurance for certain of the above-
named individuals, but at this time has not made a decision whether to acquire
such insurance.
SECURITY INTERESTS IN SAN JUAN AND BIG HORN MINES. The Company has
granted a security interest in its San Juan and Big Horn Mines, including
fixtures and mining claims, in connection with Convertible Notes which mature
on November 15, 1998. Under the terms of the Convertible Notes, the lenders
may convert such note and interest into shares of Common Stock at between $1.75
and $3.50 per share. As of June 30, 1996 the aggregate stated principal of the
Convertible Notes is approximately $8,308,947, and interest will be paid in
stock through November 15, 1997 and in cash thereafter. The Convertible Notes
bear interest from October 1, 1995, at the rate of 10% per annum. If the
lenders elect not to convert such notes into shares of Common Stock and the
Company is unable to pay off or refinance such notes, the San Juan Mine and the
Big Horn Mine may be subject to foreclosure proceedings which would materially
and adversely affect the Company. See "Risk Factors - Need for Additional
Financing."
LACK OF AVAILABLE OR AFFORDABLE INSURANCE. While the Company has general
liability insurance, including directors and officers errors and omissions
insurance, many risks associated with mining operations may not be insurable,
or if insurable, may not be available at affordable premiums. Consequently,
the Company may be exposed to certain risks of liability not covered by
insurance. See "Risk Factors - Risks in Mining Operations."
PRINCIPAL SHAREHOLDERS
The following table sets forth, as of June 30, 1996, certain information
with respect to the beneficial ownership of shares of Siskon Common Stock and
Series 1 and Series 2 Class B Common Stock by all shareholders known by Siskon
to be the beneficial owners of more than five percent of the outstanding shares
of Common Stock or Series 1 and Series 2 Class B Common Stock, all directors
and executive officers of Siskon individually, and all directors and all
executive officers of Siskon as a group. As of June 30, 1996, there were
10,733,517 shares of Common Stock and 638 shares of Series 1 Class B Common
Stock and 39,062.5 shares of Series 1 and Series 2 Class B Common Stock
outstanding.
NO. OF
NAME{(1)} SHARES PERCENT
Siskon Class A Common Stock{(1)}
Carl Seaman
63 Hunting Ridge Road
Greenwich, CT 3,456,720{(2)} 28.87%
Linda Seaman
63 Hunting Ridge Road
Greenwich, CT 1,518,492{(3)} 13.40%
Vengold Inc.
200 Burrard Street, Suite 1788
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada 6,040,888{(4)} 36.17%
Timothy A. Callaway, President
Chief Executive Officer and
Chairman of the Board 448,835{(5)} 4.11%
Charles D. Snead, Jr., Director 64,850 *
Michael Epstein, Director
and Chief Financial Officer 78,712{(6)} *
Scott E. Bartel, Director 15,297{(7)} *
Claudia J. Mack, Secretary
and Controller 40,000{(8)} *
All Directors and Executive Officers
as a Group (5 Persons) 647,694{(8)} 5.87%
SERIES 1 CLASS B COMMON STOCK{(1)}
Charles D. Snead, Jr., Director 638 100%
SERIES 2 CLASS B COMMON STOCK{(1)}
Vengold Inc. 39,062.5 100%
FOOTNOTES TO TABLE
* Less than one percent.
(1) Except as indicated in the footnotes to this table, the persons named in
the table have sole voting and investment power with respect to all shares
of Common Stock, Series 1 Class B Common Stock or Series 2 Class B Common
Stock shown as beneficially owned by them, subject to community property
laws where applicable.
(2) Carl Seaman and Linda Seaman are husband and wife. As of June 30, 1996,
Mr. and Mrs. Seaman together owned $4,119,385, and Mr. Seaman individually
owned $506,164, in principal, including accrued interest, of the
$8,308,947 principal amount including accrued interest of the Siskon
Convertible Notes which are due November 15, 1998. The principal amount,
is convertible into Common Stock at $1.75 to 3.50 per share. The shares
include conversion of accrued interest through August 31, 1996. The
amount shown for Mr. Seaman also includes 200,000 shares underlying
Warrants and 73,666 shares of Class A Common Stock owned by Carl &
Associates, a general partnership of which Mr. Seaman owns an 80% equity
interest and the remaining 20% interest of which is owned by his children.
Mr. Seaman disclaims beneficial ownership of the 14,733 shares of Common
Stock attributed to such 20% interest in Carl & Associates. The amount
shown does not include (a) 602,151 shares of Common Stock which Linda
Seaman has the right to acquire pursuant to the conversion of the note,
and (b) 916,341 shares of Common Stock owned by Linda Seaman, the
beneficial ownership of which is disclaimed by Mr. Seaman.
(3) The amount shown for Mrs. Seaman includes 602,151 shares of Common Stock
which she has the right to acquire pursuant to the conversion right
described in footnote (2) including accrued interest through August 31,
1996. The amount shown does not include any of the shares shown as
beneficially owned by Carl Seaman, the beneficial ownership of which is
disclaimed by Mrs. Seaman. See footnote (2) above.
(4) Includes 781,250 shares issuable upon conversion of the Series 2 Class B
Common Stock, 4,000,000 shares issuable upon exercise of warrants and
1,186,435 shares issuable upon conversion of $3,000,000 principal
convertible debt and accrued interest through August 31, 1996 at $2.56 per
share.
(5) Includes options to purchase 200,000 shares of Common Stock.
(6) Includes options to purchase 61,500 shares of Common Stock.
(7) Includes options to purchase 3,000 shares of Common Stock.
(8) Includes options to purchase 40,000 shares of Common Stock.
(9) Includes options to purchase 304,500 shares of Common Stock.
SUMMARY OF THE OFFERING
The Company is registering 781,250 shares of Common Stock upon conversion
of outstanding Series 2 Class B Common Stock, 4,000,000 shares of Common Stock
upon the exercise of outstanding Warrants, and 2,204,098 shares upon the
conversion of outstanding Convertible Notes. The Common Stock, Warrants and
Convertible Notes were issued in connection with a November, 1995 private
placement by the Company and a May, 1996 private placement by the Company.
USE OF PROCEEDS
Assuming conversion of the Series B Common Stock, exercise of outstanding
Warrants and conversion of Convertible Notes to purchase all of the 6,985,348
shares, as to which no assurances can be given, the Company expects to receive
$15,000,000 before deducting expenses of approximately $37,085.71 associated
with this Offering. The Company intends to use any amounts received for
general corporate purposes. As of July 16, 1996, the average high and low
price of one share of Common Stock was $1.60.
SELLING STOCKHOLDERS
The Company is registering the Class A Common Stock underlying the Series
2 Class B Common Stock, the Warrants and all Convertible Notes. The following
table assumes that the Warrants will be exercised and the Series 2 Class B
shares and Convertible Notes are converted into shares of the Company's Class A
Common Stock and that the holders (the "Selling Stockholders") are selling the
Class A Common Stock owned by them, including shares received upon exercise or
conversion.
The following table identifies the Selling Stockholders, as of July 18,
1996, and indicates (i) the nature of any material relationship that such
Selling Stockholders have had with the Company for the past three years, (ii)
the number of shares of Common Stock held by the Selling Stockholders, (iii)
the amount to be offered for the Selling Stockholders' account, and (iv) the
number of shares and percentage of outstanding shares of Common Stock to be
owned by the Selling Stockholders after the sale of the Common Stock offered by
the Selling Stockholders pursuant to this Offering. The Selling Stockholders
are not obligated to sell their Common Stock offered in the Offering and may
choose not to sell any of their shares or only a part of their shares.
The shares of Common Stock offered by the Selling Stockholders may be
offered for sale from time to time at market prices prevailing at the time of
sale or at negotiated prices, and without payment of any underwriting discounts
or commissions except for usual and customary selling commissions paid to
brokers or dealers. The Company will not receive any proceeds from the sale of
the Common Stock by the Selling Stockholders.
Under the Exchange Act, any person engaged in a distribution of the shares
of Common Stock of the Company offered by this Prospectus may not
simultaneously engage in market making activities with respect to the Common
Stock of the Company during the applicable "cooling off" periods prior to the
commencement of such distribution. In addition, and without limiting the
foregoing, each Selling Stockholder will be subject to applicable provisions of
the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations thereunder including, without
limitation, Rules 10b-6 and 10b-7, which provisions may limit the timing of
purchases and sales of Common Stock by the Selling Stockholders.
With regard to the shares offered by the Selling Stockholders, such shares
may be sold on the over-the-counter market or in private transactions at prices
to be determined at the time of sale. Such shares may be offered through
broker-dealers, acting on the Selling Stockholders' behalf, who may offer the
shares at then current market prices. Any sales may be by block trade. The
Selling Stockholders and any brokers, dealers or others who participate with
the Selling Stockholders in the distribution of such shares of Common Stock may
be deemed to be "underwriters" within the meaning of the Securities Act, and
any commissions or fees received by such persons and any profit on the resale
of such shares purchased by such persons may be deemed to be underwriting
commissions or discounts under the Securities Act. Sales may be made by all
Selling Stockholders pursuant to the Registration Statement of which this
Prospectus is a part.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SHARES BENEFICIALLY OWNED SHARES TO BE SHARES BENEFICIALLY OWNED
PRIOR TO OFFERING SOLD AFTER OFFERING
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NAME OF BENEFICIAL OWNER NUMBER Percentage NUMBER NUMBER PERCENTAGE
Vengold 6,187,825{(1)(2)} 36.73% 6,187,825 -0- -0-
Carl Seaman 3,588,449{(3)} 29.65% 621,976{(4)} -0-{(5)} -0-{(5)}
Linda Seaman 1,615,589{(6)} 14.13% 150,510{(4)} -0-{(5)} -0-{(5)}
Jordan Seaman 294,973{(7)} 2.72% 12,519{(4)} -0-{(5)} -0-{(5)}
Dana Manning 325,253{(7)} 3.00% 12,519{(4)} -0-{(5)} -0-{(5)}
</TABLE>
FOOTNOTES TO TABLE
(1) Includes 4,000,000 shares issuable upon exercise of warrants, 781,250
shares issuable upon conversion of Series 1 Class B Common Stock and
1,333,372 shares issuable upon conversion of Convertible Debt including
accrued interest through November 15, 1997.
(2) Assumes exercise of warrants.
(3) Carl Seaman and Linda Seaman are husband and wife. Mr. and Mrs. Seaman
own $4,625,549 in principal, including accrued interest, of the Siskon
Convertible Notes which are due November 15, 1998. The principal amount
is convertible into Common Stock at $1.75 to $3.50 per share and the
shares include conversion of accrued interest through November 15, 1997.
The amount shown for Mr. Seaman also includes 200,000 shares underlying
Warrants and 73,666 shares of Class A Common Stock owned by Carl &
Associates, a general partnership of which Mr. Seaman owns an 80% equity
interest and the remaining 20% interest of which is owned by his children.
Mr. Seaman disclaims beneficial ownership of the 14,733 shares of Common
Stock attributed to such 20% interest in Carl & Associates. The amount
shown does not include (a) 699,249 shares of Common Stock which Linda
Seaman has the right to acquire pursuant to the conversion of the note,
and (b) 916,341 shares of Common Stock owned by Linda Seaman, the
beneficial ownership of which is disclaimed by Mr. Seaman.
(4) The amount shown does not include additional shares which may be sold
pursuant to previous registration statements.
(5) Pursuant to this and other registration statements, the holders may, but
are not required to, sell all of their registered shares.
(6) The amount shown for Mrs. Seaman includes 699,249 shares of Common Stock
which she would have the right to acquire pursuant to the conversion right
described in footnote (3), including accrued interest through November 15,
1997.
(7) Includes shares underlying a convertible note based on interest accruable
and deferred through November 15, 1997.
DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES
The following discussion addresses all material aspects of the Company's
securities.
COMMON STOCK
Pursuant to its Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation, the
Company is authorized to issue up to 50,000,000 shares of Common Stock, $.001
par value, 49,500,000 of which are designated as "Class A" Common Stock and
500,000 of which are designated as "Class B" Common Stock. The Board of
Directors is authorized to provide for the issuance of Class B Common Stock in
series and to determine the rights and privileges of Class B Common Stock,
including the conversion rights and voting rights of any such issuance without
any further vote or action by shareholders. Holders of the Company's Common
Stock have no preemptive rights, and are not subject to further call or
assessment.
As of June 30, 1996, the number of shares of Class A Common Stock
outstanding is 10,733,517, the number of shares of Series 1 Class B Common
Stock outstanding was 638 and the number of shares of Series 2 Class B Common
Stock outstanding was 39,062.5. There is no preferred stock outstanding.
VOTING RIGHTS; DIVIDENDS
The holders of both Class A and Class B Common Stock are entitled to one
vote for each share held of record on each matter submitted to a vote of
shareholders. Further, the holders of Common Stock are entitled to receive
ratable dividends when and as declared by the Board of Directors from funds
legally available therefor. In the event of a liquidation, dissolution or
winding up of the Company, the holders of Common Stock would be entitled to
share ratably in all assets remaining after payment to holders of any series of
preferred stock or of any other senior securities outstanding at such time. It
is anticipated that the Company will not be declaring dividends in the near
future.
SERIES 1 CLASS B
The holders of Series 1 Class B Common Stock have rights similar to those
of the Class A Common Stock, including the right to share on a pro rata basis
in the Company's assets remaining after payment to shareholders of any series
of preferred stock or of any other senior securities outstanding at such time.
Each share of Series 1 Class B Common Stock is entitled to one vote and votes
with the Class A Common Stock as a class. Each share of Series 1 Class B
Common Stock may be converted into 100 shares of Class A Common Stock for every
$25,000 increment of equity, debt or project financing raised by the Company
and through the holder's efforts. Holders of the Series 1 Class B Common Stock
have no pre-emptive rights, and are not subject to further call or assessment.
SERIES 2 CLASS B
The holders of Series 2 Class B Common Stock also have rights similar to
those of the Class A Common Stock, including the right to share on a pro rata
basis in the Company's assets remaining after payment to shareholders of any
series of preferred stock or of any other senior securities outstanding at such
time. Each share of Series 2 Class B Common Stock is entitled to one vote and
votes with the Class A Common Stock as a class in all matters other than the
election of directors. Holders of the Series 2 Class B Common Stock is
entitled, voting as a separate class, to elect two directors to the Company's
board of directors. Each share of Series 2 Class B Common Stock may be
converted into 20 shares of Class A Common Stock. Holders of the Series 2
Class B Common Stock have certain preemptive rights to purchase, on a pro rata
basis, new securities.
CONVERTIBLE NOTE
The Company issued and has outstanding convertible notes in the aggregate
principal amount of $8,308,947, as of June 30, 1996, the principal and accrued
interest of which may be converted by the holders thereof at their option and
at any time into shares of the Company's Common Stock at a conversion price
ranging from $1.75 per share to $3.50 per share. The convertible notes bear
interest at the rate of 10%, interest payable in stock through November 15,
1997 and in cash thereafter. The notes are due November 15, 1998.
WARRANTS
In the November 1995 private placement, the Company issued Warrants to
purchase 2 million shares of Class A Common Stock at $3.50 per share expiring
on December 31, 1996 and 2 million shares of Class A Common Stock at $4.00 per
share expiring on November 15, 1997. The Company also issued Warrants to
purchase an aggregate of 490,400 shares of Common Stock in connection with the
private placement of Units that was concluded in November 1994.
ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION AND BYLAWS
The following discussion addresses all material aspects of the Company's
Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws.
Certain provisions of the Company's Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws
may have the effect of deterring a change of control of the Company. The
Company's Articles of Incorporation contains provisions requiring the approval
of 80% of the Company's shareholders for certain mergers, sales of all or
substantially all of the Company's assets and certain other corporate action
unless the transaction is approved by seventy-five percent of the disinterested
board members or unless all shareholders receive a price for their shares of
the Company's capital stock which meets certain minimum price criteria. The
Company's Articles also require the approval of 80% of the Company's
shareholders in order to amend this provision.
The Company's Bylaws contain a provision which requires that, before
eligible shareholders may call a special meeting of shareholders regarding the
election of directors to the Company's Board of Directors, notice be given to
the Company a minimum of sixty (60) days and a maximum of ninety (90) days
prior to the date of the meeting. The Company's Articles of Incorporation also
eliminate the ability of shareholders to act by written consent.
The Company's Articles of Incorporation provide for the indemnification of
directors and officers for certain acts to the fullest extent permitted by
California Law. Further, the Company's Bylaws provide authority for the
Company to maintain a liability insurance policy which insures directors or
officers against any liability incurred by them in their capacity as such. The
Company has purchased such insurance for its directors and officers.
Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities
Act may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the
Company 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 Securities 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.
EXPERTS
The financial statements of the Company as of December 31, 1995 and 1994
and for the years then ended incorporated in this Prospectus by reference from
the Company's Form 10-KSB for the year ended December 31, 1995, have been
audited by Coopers & Lybrand L.L.P., independent accountants, as stated in
their report, which is incorporated herein by reference. Such report expresses
an unqualified opinion. Such financial statements of the Company have been so
incorporated in reliance upon the report of such firm given upon their
authority as experts in accounting and auditing.
LEGAL MATTERS
The legality of the shares of Common Stock offered by this Prospectus will
be passed upon for the Company by Bartel Eng Linn & Schroder of Sacramento,
California. Scott E. Bartel, a shareholder of Bartel Eng Linn & Schroder, is a
director of the Company and is the beneficial owner of 8,527 shares of Common
Stock.
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