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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
----------
(Mark One)
[X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (FEE REQUIRED)
or
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (NO FEE REQUIRED)
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1999
COMMISSION FILE NUMBER 0-1607
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC.
------------------------------------------------------
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
NEW YORK 15-0555258
- --------------------------------- ----------------------
(State or other jurisdiction (I.R.S. Employer
of incorporation or organization) Identification Number)
VERNON, NEW YORK 13476
- ------------------------------- ----------
(Address or principal executive (Zip Code)
offices)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code:
---------------------------------------------------
(315) 829-2201
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
-----------------------------------------------------------
NONE
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
-----------------------------------------------------------
COMMON STOCK $.10 PAR VALUE PER SHARE
(Title of Class)
- ---------------
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding 12 months and (2) has been subject to the filing requirements for
the past 90 days. YES [X] NO [ ]
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent files pursuant to Item 405 of
Regulation S-K (Section 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and
will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive
proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this
Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. [ ]
State the aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of
the registrant as of a specified date within 60 days prior to the date of
filing.
$2,988,670.50 Class
------
COMMON STOCK $.10 PAR VALUE
Outstanding at July 1, 2000
442,766 SHARES
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
None.
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The total number of pages in this report is 39
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FORM 10-K ANNUAL REPORT -- 1999
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC.
PART I Page
----
Item 1. Business ................................................... 1
Item 2. Properties ................................................. 2
Item 3. Legal Proceedings .......................................... 2
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a vote of Security Holders ........ 3
PART II
Item 5. Market for the Registrant's Common Stock and Related
Security Holder Matters .................................. 3
Item 6. Selected Financial Data .................................... 5
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations ...................... 6
Item 8. Financial Statements ....................................... 10
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on
Accounting and Financial Disclosure ...................... 23
PART III
Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant ......... 23
Item 11. Executive Compensation ..................................... 27
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners
and Management ........................................... 27
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions ............. 27
PART IV
Item 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports
on Form 8-K .............................................. 28
EXHIBITS
November 12, 1999 Current Report pursuant to Section 13 of 15(d)
of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 (Form 8-K)................Exhibit A
PART I
Item 1. Business.
Mid-State Raceway, Inc., known as Vernon Downs, in Vernon, New York, is licensed
under and subject to the regulations of Pari-Mutuel Revenue Law and supervision
of the New York State Racing and Wagering Board to conduct harness racing at its
track and to simulcast racing from other tracks.
During 1999, the Company was engaged in the business of harness racing. In 2000,
the Company acquired the Comfort Suites Hotel which is located adjacent to the
track.
The Company intends to be a leading participant in the harness racing industry
by making its races attractive to off-track betting and simulcasting venues
throughout the country. This will be accomplished through expanding the track
from a 3/4-mile oval with a 1/4-mile chute to a 7/8-mile oval, drawing higher
quality horses to the facility and establishing a program to make the track more
attractive to high roller bettors. The program will utilize the Comfort Suites
Hotel along with a betting point system to attract high rollers to bet on its
races. The Company also plans to reorganize its wagering programs in an
innovative and exciting manner to attract additional wagering. Currently,
approximately one-third of the fifteen billion dollars a year wagered on horse
racing is wagered in New York State, either at race tracks or simulcast
facilities. Management believes that the Company can capture a greater portion
of this betting.
The Company is planning to focus its efforts in the year 2000 on developing a
hospitality company on its grounds to accommodate both gaming and other forms of
entertainment for wagering, junkets and special events hosted and promoted by
the Company.
Generally, Mid-State Raceway is not in competition with other harness racing
tracks in New York State for live racing patrons. A thoroughbred race track,
which conducts a day-time racing meet, is located about 110 miles from Vernon,
New York, and competes to some extent for the Vernon Downs customers primarily
on weekend dates. The Company continues to compete with off-track wagering on
thoroughbred and harness racing and to compete with the New York State Lottery
and the Oneida Indian Nation's Turning Stone Casino, approximately 7 miles away
in Verona, New York.
The Company's Board of Directors approved a year 2000 compliance action plan on
December 15,1998. The Company completed the plan prior to December 31, 1999. The
cost of making the Company year 2000 compliant was less than $25,000 and was not
material.
The Company employed 177 persons during the fiscal year.
Item 2. Properties.
The Racing Plant is located in Vernon, Oneida County, New York. Since the
opening of the plant and related facilities in 1953, the Company has maintained
a policy of continuously improving and modernizing its facilities. In the period
ended December 31, 1999, $505,042 was expended for equipment and renovations to
the plant.
The plant can accommodate approximately 14,000 patrons, which includes seating
for 2,000 in the Grandstand and 1,700 in the Clubhouse. There are parking
facilities for approximately 5,900 automobiles.
In June of 2000, the Company completed construction of an expanded 7/8 mile oval
stone dust track which is comparable with tracks located in major metropolitan
areas. Previously the track was a 3/4 mile oval stone dust track with a 1/4 mile
chute and a passing lane running from the last turn to the finish line. The
chute and passing lane have been eliminated. The track is illuminated by a
metal-halide and quartz lighting system. Most races are for a distance of one
mile. The stables accommodate approximately 1,000 horses and are located
adjacent to three exercise tracks and the main track. Major improvements were
made to the Company's simulcast dining and wagering areas in preparation for the
2000 season.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings.
(a) In 1999, the Company settled a lawsuit brought by Richard C. Breeden,
Trustee of the Bennett Funding Group, Inc., bankruptcy, where the
Trustee claimed that approximately $1,200,000.00 of corporate
sponsorships previously paid to the Company were fraudulent transfers.
The suit was settled in 1999 for payment to the Trustee of 38,000
shares of the Company's stock.
(b) Jerome Wilson, Frank White, Sr., and Robert Jaquint, former Officers of
the Company, commenced an action against the Company alleging breach of
contract and fiduciary duty for the Company's decision to eliminate its
Supplemental Retirement Benefit Plan (the "Plan") in March of 1998.
Messrs. Wilson, White and Jaquint are the primary beneficiaries of the
Plan which was established in 1977 as a supplemental retirement plan
for Officers and Directors of the Company. The suit was settled by the
Company for payment of a total of 4,380 shares of the Company's Stock.
(c) The Company is a defendant in several litigation matters involving its
operations. Management believes that liabilities resulting from these
lawsuits, if any, will be immaterial or covered by insurance policies.
2
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Securities Holders.
The annual meeting of the shareholders of the Company was held on June 25, 1999.
At the meeting, four directors were elected to three-year terms that will expire
in the year 2002. The four directors were Edward A. Kiley, Jeremiah Law, Robert
Legler, DVM and Wesley E. Wendt, Sr.
The voting tabulation for the election of directors was as follows:
For Abstain
------- -------
Edward A. Kiley 144,190 428
Jeremiah Law 142,776 1,842
Robert Legler, DVM 143,642 976
Wesley E. Wendt, Sr. 143,686 932
PART II
Item 5. Market for the Registrant's Common Stock and Related Security Holder
Matters.
(a) Price Range of Stock
The Company's common stock trades on the market over-the-counter under
the symbol "MRWYE.OB".
The following table shows the high and low bid prices for the quarters
indicated for the Company's common stock in the over-the-counter market
for the calendar quarters indicated. The prices are based upon reported
quotes only, as the stock is not listed or reported by NASDAQ. The
quotations may not necessarily represent actual transactions and do not
necessarily reflect retail mark-up, mark-down or commission.
Bid Prices
----------------------------
Year Ended December 31, 1999
----------------------------
Low High
------ -------
Quarter Ended March 31 $ 6.00 $ 7.00
Quarter Ended June 30 $ 7.00 $ 7.00
Quarter Ended September 30 $ 6.75 $ 12.00
Quarter Ended December 31 $ 6.75 $ 6.75
3
Bid Prices
----------------------------
Year Ended December 31, 1998
----------------------------
Low High
------ -------
Quarter Ended March 31 $ 5.00 $ 5.00
Quarter Ended June 30 $ 5.00 $ 5.00
Quarter Ended September 30 $ 5.00 $ 5.00
Quarter Ended December 31 $ 5.00 $ 5.00
(b) Approximate Number of Equity Security Holders
Title of Class Number of Record Holders
-------------- ------------------------
Common Stock, $.10 540
par value per share
(c) Dividends
There were no dividends paid during the years ended December 31, 1999
and 1998.
There are no restrictions on the payment of dividends on the Company's
common stock. Future payment of dividends will be within the discretion
of the Company's Board of Directors and will depend on earnings,
capital requirements and the operating and financial condition of the
Company.
4
Item 6. Selected Financial Data.
9 Months
Years Ended December 31, Ended
----------------------------------------------------- December 31,
1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
OPERATING RESULTS
Number of racing days 114 122 77 115 122
Operating revenues:
Pari-mutuel commissions and breakage $ 6,014,277 $ 6,570,523 $ 5,626,308 $ 7,050,079 $ 7,121,567
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Less payments to New York State 266,508 265,102 231,965 297,001 219,317
Breeders' Fund 185,167 220,886 180,167 238,859 271,316
Purses 123,131 144,035 106,323 188,888 223,586
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
574,806 630,023 518,455 724,748 786,219
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Net pari-mutual commissions and breakage 5,439,471 5,940,500 5,107,853 6,325,331 6,335,348
Admissions 68,843 70,925 61,740 92,655 123,522
Concessions and other revenues 486,651 488,337 211,734 311,094 679,410
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total operating revenues 5,994,965 6,499,762 5,381,327 6,729,080 7,138,280
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Operating expenses:
Purses 1,992,214 1,886,450 1,298,244 2,259,038 2,378,086
Other 5,081,606 5,335,835 4,694,672 5,880,547 5,223,229
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total operating expenses 7,073,820 7,222,285 5,992,916 8,139,585 7,601,315
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Loss from operations (1,078,855) (722,523) (611,589) (1,410,505) (463,035)
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Other income (loss):
Commissions for capital improvements -- 86,330 81,952 146,224 140,985
Investment income (loss) 6,598 (17,378) (21,470) 6,367 31,434
Interest Expense (146,708) (79,236) -- -- --
Settlement of Lawsuit (380,000) -- -- -- --
Aid from state and local governments 233,751 372,750 -- -- --
Gain on sale of land -- 399,999 -- -- --
Gain on sale of other assets -- 73,500 -- -- --
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total other income (loss) (286,359) 835,965 60,482 152,591 172,419
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
(Loss) before taxes on income (1,365,214) 113,442 (551,107) (1,257,914) (290,616)
Provision for taxes on income 3,753 404 (329,758) 103,524 18,163
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
NET (LOSS) INCOME $(1,368,967) $ 113,038 $ (880,865) $(1,361,438) $ (308,779)
=========== =========== =========== =========== ===========
Per share of common stock:
Net (loss) income* ($4.89) $ 0.45 ($ 3.52) ($ 5.44) ($ 1.23)
Cash dividends $ 0.00 $ 0.00 $ 0.00 $ 0.00 $ 0.00
Shareholders' equity ( $3.25) $ 1.75 $ 1.30 $ 4.82 $ 10.26
*Based on weighted average shares outstanding
FINANCIAL CONDITION
Current assets 2,206,442 1,274,200 466,963 694,165 1,228,020
Marketable securities - due after 1 year -- -- -- 89,100 270,770
Net property, plant and equipment 2,151,020 1,837,962 1,857,557 2,066,520 1,933,496
Other assets 29,265 77,606 105,903 454,062 576,462
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
4,386,727 3,189,768 2,430,423 3,303,847 4,008,748
=========== =========== =========== =========== ===========
Current liabilities 1,183,734 634,814 1,090,507 1,186,621 508,558
Non-current liabilities 2,293,861 2,115,861 1,013,861 908,011 929,731
Shareholders' equity 909,132 439,093 326,055 1, 209,215 2,570,459
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
4,386,727 3,189,768 2,430,423 3,303,847 4,008,748
=========== =========== =========== =========== ===========
5
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis.
Results of Operations
Year Ended December 31, 1999 as Compared to Year Ended December 31, 1998
During the year ended December 1999, operating revenues decreased by $504,797,
as compared with the year ended December 31, 1998. A substantial portion of the
decreased operating revenues was due to eight less live racing days during the
1999 racing season and a substantial drop in commissions and breakage from
wagering at the Comfort Suites Hotel, located on the Company's track property.
The Company operates a mutuel operation in the hotel, which provided net
pari-mutuel commissions and breakage from wagering in the approximate amount of
$450,000 during 1999 which is down from $1,060,000 during 1998. The Company
gained control of the hotel in May of 2000 and as a result thereof expects a
substantial increase in commissions and breakage from the hotel in 2000 due to
planned capital improvements, improved service and establishment of a program to
attract high rollers to the hotel. Net corporate sponsorship of racing events
decreased $4,886 from the previous racing season.
The current year operating expenses decreased $148,465 compared to the year
ended December 31, 1998. The principal cause for the decrease was the decrease
in the number of live racing days from 122 to 114.
The Company incurred a $380,000 charge in connection with the settlement of a
lawsuit commenced by Richard C. Breeden, Trustee of the Bennett Funding Group,
Inc. and other related entities to recover payments of approximately
$1,200,000.00 made to the Company from Bennett Funding Group and related
entities between June 30, 1990 and January 26, 1996. That law suit was settled
in 1999 by the transfer of 38,000 shares of the Company's common stock to the
Trustee which were valued at $10 a share.
The Company's simulcast operations continued to offer a variety of racing from
over 51 different harness and thoroughbred tracks from around the country and
internationally during the year ended December 31, 1999. While the simulcast
operation operates at a profitable margin, the revenues are not sufficient to
cover the losses experienced through live racing.
Track management plans to substantially increase its core businesses of
simulcasting and live racing by expanding the track to 7/8ths mile. This will
make racing at the track more attractive to on track bettors and bettors from
other locations. The expanded track will also draw higher quality horses to the
facility which will in turn increase betting handle at the track. Management has
established a program to utilize the Comfort Suites Hotel along with a betting
points system to attract high rollers to its facilities on a
6
regular basis. Management also has extensive plans to utilize its facilities to
sponsor and promote special events.
The Company was fully year 2000 compliant prior to the end of 1999 and
experienced no year 2000 problems. The maximum cost to the Company of year 2000
compliance was less than $25,000. The Company does not have a contingency plan
because it fully expected to be year 2000 compliant without material additional
work required of it or its vendors.
Statistical Comparison:
12 Months Ended December 31, 1999 vs. 12 Months Ended December 31, 1998
Twelve Months Ended
December 31,
------------------------------ INCREASE
1999 1998 (DECREASE)
------------ ------------ ------------
GROSS HANDLE:
Live Harness $ 7,036,061 $ 8,230,547 $ (1,194,486)
OTB & ITW 10,625,173 12,266,211 (1,641,038)
Thoroughbred Simulcast 4,696,240 4,619,987 76,253
Harness Simulcast 8,851,663 11,180,594 (2,328,931)
------------ ------------ ------------
$ 31,209,137 $ 36,297,339 $ (5,088,202)
DAILY AVERAGE:
Live Harness Handle $ 61,720 $ 67,464 $ (5,744)
OTB & ITW Handle 93,203 100,543 (7,339)
Attendance (155,279 in
1999 & 183,949 in 1998) 1,362 1,508 (146)
LIVE RACING DAYS 114 122 (8)
Year Ended December 31, 1998 as Compared to Year Ended December 31, 1997
During the year ended December 1998, operating revenues increased by $1,121,660,
as compared with the year ended December 31, 1997. A substantial portion of the
increased operating revenues was due to 45 more live racing days during the 1998
racing season. Net corporate sponsorship of racing events increased $17,614 from
the previous racing season.
The Comfort Suites Hotel, located on the Company's track property, continues to
benefit the Company's operations. The Company operates a mutuel operation in the
hotel, which provided net pari-mutuel commissions and breakage from wagering in
the approximate amount of $1,060,000.
7
The current year operating expenses increased $1,308,605 compared to the year
ended December 31, 1997. The principal cause for the increase was the increase
in the number of live racing days from 77 to 122.
The Company's simulcast operations continued to expand, offering a variety of
racing from over 55 different harness and thoroughbred tracks from around the
country and internationally during the year ended December 31, 1998. While the
simulcast operation operates at a profitable margin, the revenues are not
sufficient to cover the losses experienced through live racing.
Track management continues to focus on reducing operating expenses through a
variety of measures. Management is working to increase revenue through expanded
use of its track facilities with the following events planned: snow cross,
concerts, equestrian shows, and a rodeo. Management is working to increase
attendance through increased advertising and promotion.
The Company's Board of Directors adopted a year 2000 action plan at its Board of
Directors meeting on December 15, 1998. The plan determined that minor upgrades
to its existing computer hardware and software would be required to make it year
2000 compliant.
Subsequent Events
In March of 1998, a suit was brought against Mid-State Raceway, Inc. alleging
Breach of Contract and Fiduciary Duty with respect to the Company's decision to
eliminate its Supplemental Retirement Benefit Plan. Subsequent to year end, that
suit was settled for the issuance of 4,380 shares of common stock to the
remaining beneficiaries under the Plan. The settlement of the lawsuit will
result in substantial income to the Company in the first quarter of 2000 due to
the elimination of a liability in the amount of $1,013,861 for deferred
retirement benefits in connection with the Supplemental Retirement Benefit Plan,
which was terminated.
Expansion of the track to 7/8ths of a mile has been successfully completed.
Betting handle has increased as a result of the expanded track and stables are
now entering higher quality courses in races at the track.
The track took over effective control of the Comfort Suites Hotel in May of
2000. The Company is currently renovating the restaurant and betting room at the
Hotel, and has plans to renovate the 7th floor of the Hotel to provide suites
for high rollers who they expect to attract to the facility. It is anticipated
that betting at the Hotel will substantially increase as a result of the planned
improvements to the hotel.
High Mountain Associates claims it has a valid mortgage on the hotel property
with a principal balance due of approximately $6,000,000. The Company disputes
this claim because at the time the mortgage was given, the owner of the hotel
did not own the
8
underlying land for the hotel and accordingly, the mortgage is not a valid lien
on the hotel land and building. The trustee in the Bennett bankruptcy also
claims ownership of the hotel. Currently, the Company, the Trustee of the
Bennett bankruptcy, and High Mountain are in negotiations regarding High
Mountain's mortgage claim, and the Trustee's claim. No legal action has been
brought by any party, and the Company is optimistic that the claims can be
settled with Company paying fair market value for the hotel building, net of
land and land improvements, in settlement of the Trustee's and High Mountain's
claims.
Recent legislation in New York State allows Mid-State to institute a point
system to reward its high roller bettors. The point system can be used to
attract high rollers in much the same way casinos attract high rollers. The
point system combined with renovations to the hotel and the planned high roller
program is expected to substantially increase simulcasting and live racing
revenues. Recent legislation also makes it unlikely that Batavia downs, a
harness racing facility in Batavia, New York, which is about 150 miles from the
Company's track, will re-open in the near future. This will likely increase
attendance and handle at the track.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
In the first three quarters of 2000, funding of business operation and capital
requirements for the Company will be substantially sourced from existing cash.
The Company anticipates that it will borrow up to $4,000,000 in the fourth
quarter of 2000 to fund ongoing capital improvements to the track and the hotel,
provide working capital necessary to institute plan programs and events, and to
replace the existing mortgages on the property totaling $1,250,000.
The Company's current ratio at December 31, 1999 was 1.86:1. The Company's
current ratio at December 31, 1998 was 2.0:1.
In 1998 the Company obtained a mortgage loan in the amount of $1,000,000 from a
private lender who is now a director of the Corporation. The loan bears interest
at 12%, and is due on May 15, 2001. In 1999, the Company obtained an additional
$250,000 mortgage loan from two Board Members, one of whom is an officer. The
loan bears 12% interest, and is due and payable on May 15, 2001.
9
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders
Mid-State Raceway, Inc. and Subsidiary
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Mid-State
Raceway, Inc. and Subsidiary as of December 31, 1999 and 1998, and the related
consolidated statements of operations, changes in shareholders' equity, and cash
flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1999. These
financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on
our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the 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 Mid-State Raceway,
Inc. and Subsidiary as of December 31, 1999 and 1998, and the results of their
operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended
December 31, 1999, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
Albany, New York
June 6, 2000
10
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
DECEMBER 31, 1999 AND 1998
========================================================================================================
ASSETS 1999 1998
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,113,529 $ 437,241
Cash restricted for purses, capital improvements and
uncashed winning tickets 157,909 87,478
Grant receivable 233,751 122,750
Other receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of
$112,000 in 1999 and $22,000 in 1998 339,864 373,854
Investments 200,125 --
Other current assets 161,264 252,877
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total current assets 2,206,442 1,274,200
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Land, racing plant and equipment 13,223,647 12,718,605
Other properties 121,671 121,671
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
13,345,318 12,840,276
Less accumulated depreciation 11,194,298 11,002,314
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2,151,020 1,837,962
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OTHER ASSETS
Other assets 29,265 77,606
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
29,265 77,606
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$4,386,727 $ 3,189,768
========================================================================================================
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Current portion of real estate taxes payable $ 72,000 $ 72,000
Accounts payable and accrued expenses 964,070 482,768
Uncashed winning tickets 63,392 59,258
Retention for capital improvements 84,272 20,788
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total current liabilities 1,183,734 634,814
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
REAL ESTATE TAXES PAYABLE, less current portion 30,000 102,000
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MORTGAGES PAYABLE 1,250,000 1,000,000
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DEFERRED RETIREMENT BENEFITS (Note 15) 1,013,861 1,013,861
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CONTINGENCIES (Note 15)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Common stock, par value $.10 per share;
authorized 10,000,000 shares; issued and
outstanding 438,386 shares in 1999, 250,386 in 1998 43,839 25,039
Additional paid-in capital 2,041,547 225,347
(Accumulated deficit) retained earnings (1,180,260) 188,707
Accumulated other comprehensive income 4,006 --
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total shareholders' equity 909,132 439,093
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 4,386,727 $ 3,189,768
========================================================================================================
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
11
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1999, 1998, AND 1997
============================================================================================================================
FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR
ENDED ENDED ENDED
DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 31,
1999 1998 1997
(114 RACING DAYS) (122 RACING DAYS) (77 RACING DAYS)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating revenues:
Net pari-mutuel commissions and breakage from wagering:
Vernon Downs Harness $ 1,230,005 $ 1,454,373 $ 1,054,039
Off-track betting (OTB) and inter-track wagering 1,613,935 1,514,899 1,369,151
(ITW)
Simulcasting 2,595,531 2,971,228 2,684,663
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5,439,471 5,940,500 5,107,853
Admissions 68,843 70,925 61,740
Concessions and special events 236,456 290,903 109,236
Corporate sponsors 27,500 22,614 5,000
Other revenues 222,695 174,820 97,498
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total operating revenues 5,994,965 6,499,762 5,381,327
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating expenses:
Purses 1,992,214 1,886,450 1,298,244
Payroll 1,524,236 1,484,055 1,240,253
Taxes, other than income 401,921 386,807 384,469
Outside services and rentals 209,434 563,342 381,483
Utilities 469,621 448,049 434,458
Simulcasting expenses 994,934 1,010,918 999,772
Depreciation 191,984 197,667 233,356
Bad debts 91,586 18,837 9,905
Other expenses 1,197,890 1,226,160 1,010,976
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total operating expenses 7,073,820 7,222,285 5,992,916
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Loss from operations (1,078,855) (722,523) (611,589)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other income (loss):
Commissions for capital improvements -- 86,330 81,952
Aid from state and local governments 233,751 372,750 --
Gain on sale of land -- 399,999 --
Gain on sale of other assets -- 73,500 --
Investment income (loss) 6,598 (17,378) (21,470)
Interest expense (146,708) (79,236) --
Settlement of lawsuit (Note 15) (380,000) -- --
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total other income (loss) (286,359) 835,965 60,482
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Loss) income before provision for federal and state
income taxes (1,365,214) 113,442 (551,107)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Provision for federal and state income taxes:
Currently payable 3,753 404 2,326
Deferred -- -- 327,432
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total provision for federal and state income 3,753 404 329,758
taxes
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net (loss) income $(1,368,967) $ 113,038 $ (880,865)
============================================================================================================================
(Loss) income per common share - based on weighted
average shares outstanding $ (4.89) $ 0.45 $ (3.52)
============================================================================================================================
Cash dividends per share $ -- $ -- $ --
============================================================================================================================
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
12
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1999, 1998, AND 1997
===================================================================================================================================
COMMON STOCK ACCUMULATED ACCUMULATED
ADDITIONAL DEFICIT)/ OTHER
ISSUED AND OUTSTANDING PAID-IN RETAINED COMPREHENSIVE
SHARES AMOUNT CAPITAL EARNINGS INCOME TOTAL
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balances at January 1, 1997 250,386 $ 25,039 $ 225,347 $ 956,534 $ 2,295 $ 1,459,601
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net loss for the year -- -- -- (880,865) -- (880,865)
Change in unrealized gain on securities available
for sale -- -- -- -- (2,295) (2,295)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balances at December 31, 1997 250,386 25,039 225,347 75,669 -- 326,055
Net income for the year and comprehensive income -- -- -- 113,038 -- 113,038
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balances at December 31, 1998 250,386 25,039 225,347 188,707 -- 439,093
Comprehensive income (loss)
Net loss for the year -- -- -- (1,368,967) -- (1,368,967)
Unrealized gain on securities available for sale -- -- -- -- 4,006 4,006
Total comprehensive income (loss) -- -- -- (1,368,967) 4,006 (1,364,961)
Issuance of common stock through private placement,
net of issuance costs of $45,000 150,000 15,000 1,440,000 -- -- 1,455,000
Issuance of common stock for settlement of lawsuit
(Note 15) 38,000 3,800 376,200 -- -- 380,000
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balances at December 31, 1999 438,386 $ 43,839 $2,041,547 $(1,180,260) $ 4,006 $ 909,132
===================================================================================================================================
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
13
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1999, 1998, AND 1997
===================================================================================================================================
FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR
ENDED ENDED ENDED
DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 31,
1999 1998 1997
(114 RACING DAYS) (122 RACING DAYS) (77 RACING DAYS)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net (loss) income $(1,368,967) $ 113,038 $(880,865)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net
cash used in operating activities:
Settlement of lawsuit 380,000 -- --
Depreciation 191,984 197,667 233,382
Deferred income taxes -- -- 327,432
Allowance for (recoveries of) doubtful accounts 90,000 15,000 (23,000)
Gain on sale of other assets -- (73,500) (4,769)
Loss on sale/disposal of equipment -- 14,596 1,431
Gain on sale of land -- (399,999) --
Changes in:
Restricted cash (70,431) (25,268) 128,332
Accounts and grants receivable (167,011) (324,588) 39,880
Prepaid expenses 91,613 (231,137) 27,371
Other assets 48,341 (20,703) 22,257
Real estate taxes payable (72,000) 174,000 --
Accounts payable 481,302 (545,529) 146,413
Purse funds -- -- (103,210)
Uncashed winning tickets 4,134 (2,952) (25,122)
Retention for capital improvements 63,484 20,788 --
Deferred retirement benefits -- -- (1,715)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash used in operating activities (327,551) (1,088,587) (112,183)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from maturities and sales of available-for-
sale investment securities -- -- 104,093
Purchase of available-for-sale investment securities (196,119) -- --
Proceeds from sale of other assets -- 122,500 --
Proceeds from sale of equipment -- 501 1,200
Proceeds from sale of land -- 400,000 --
Purchase of properties and equipment (505,042) (193,170) (33,654)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities (701,161) 329,831 71,639
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from mortgage loan 250,000 1,000,000 --
Net proceeds from sale of stock 1,455,000 -- --
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by financing activities 1,705,000 1,000,000 --
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash 676,288 241,244 (40,544)
Cash at beginning of year 437,241 195,997 236,541
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash at end of year $ 1,113,529 $ 437,241 $ 195,997
===================================================================================================================================
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW
INFORMATION
Cash paid during the year for:
Interest $ 137,958 $ 120,000 $ --
Income taxes $ -- $ 712 $ 2,353
===================================================================================================================================
SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULE OF NONCASH
INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Equipment returned upon termination of capital
lease agreement $ -- $ -- $ 6,630
===================================================================================================================================
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
14
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTE 1. NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
NATURE OF OPERATIONS:
Mid-State Raceway, Inc. ("MSR"), known as Vernon Downs, operates a
harness racing track in Vernon, New York. MSR is licensed by the New
York State Racing and Wagering Board to conduct live harness racing at
its track and to simulcast racing from other tracks. Such licenses are
subject to annual renewal.
Mid-State Development Corporation ("MSD"), formerly known as Mid-Year
Sales, Inc., is a wholly owned subsidiary of MSR. Beginning in October
1999, MSD operated concessions at the harness racing track owned by
MSR. Prior to 1999, MSD was an inactive company.
PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION:
The accompanying 1999 consolidated financial statements include the
accounts of MSR and MSD. All significant intercompany accounts and
transactions have been eliminated in the consolidation. Prior to 1999,
MSD was inactive and had no assets, liabilities, revenues or expenses.
USE OF ESTIMATES IN THE PREPARATION OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates
and assumptions that affect the reported 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 reporting period. Actual results could differ from those
estimates.
CASH EQUIVALENTS:
For purposes of reporting cash flow, cash and cash equivalents include
money market accounts and any highly liquid debt instruments purchased
with a maturity of three months or less.
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT:
Property, plant and equipment are carried at cost less accumulated
depreciation computed by the straight-line and accelerated methods.
The estimated useful life to the various classes of assets on which
current provisions were based are as follows:
==========================================================
Land improvements 5 to 20 years
Buildings and improvements 10 to 40 years
Other structures 15 to 31 1/2years
Equipment 3 to 20 years
==========================================================
15
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTE 1. NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES,
CONTINUED
DEFERRED COMPENSATION PLAN:
MSR terminated an unfunded deferred compensation plan during March 1998
(Note 15). Subsequent to this termination, a lawsuit was brought
against MSR by beneficiaries of this deferred compensation plan
challenging the plan's termination. As a result of a settlement of this
lawsuit reached in the first quarter of 2000, MSR issued 4,380 shares
of common stock (par value $0.10) to the beneficiaries in 2000.
INCOME (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE:
Income (loss) per share of common stock has been calculated based on
the weighted average shares outstanding during each year. The weighted
average number of common shares outstanding was 279,805 during 1999,
and 250,386 during the years ended December 31, 1998 and 1997.
Outstanding warrants (Note 13) at December 31, 1999 were anti-dilutive.
ADVERTISING:
MSR follows the policy of charging the costs of advertising to expense
as incurred. Advertising expense was $116,750, $214,413, and $65,245,
for the years ended December 31, 1999, 1998, and 1997, respectively.
INCOME TAXES:
The Companies recognize deferred income taxes for the tax consequences
in future years of differences between the tax bases of assets and
liabilities and their financial reporting amounts at each year-end
based on enacted tax laws and statutory tax rates applicable to the
periods in which the differences are expected to affect taxable income.
Valuation allowances are established when necessary to reduce deferred
tax assets to the amount expected to be realized. Income tax expense is
the tax payable for the period and the change during the period in
deferred tax assets and liabilities.
REVENUE RECOGNITION:
MSR recognizes revenue for commissions from wagering, corporate
sponsors, and admissions when the related racing event is run.
Commissions for capital improvements are recognized when the related
qualifying expenditures are incurred. Investment income is recognized
on the accrual basis.
RECLASSIFICATIONS:
Certain balances in prior year financial statements have been
reclassified for comparative purposes.
16
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTE 2. GRANT RECEIVABLE
Grant receivable represents amounts due MSR from New York State in
relation to a 1999 and 1998 New York State Legislative grant
appropriation for the purposes of preserving employment and increasing
marketing. In connection with the 1999 grant, MSR was required to incur
qualifying expenditures between July 1, 1999 and December 31, 1999 and
submit a reimbursement request to New York State. All expenditures
submitted for reimbursement were approved by New York State.
NOTE 3. OTHER RECEIVABLES
Other receivables consist of the following at December 31, 1999 and
1998:
===========================================================================
1999 1998
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shift adjustments $156,928 $113,390
Sale of other assets -- 122,500
Commissions 87,532 96,939
Other 207,404 63,025
Total 451,864 395,854
Less allowance for doubtful accounts 112,000 22,000
Other receivables, net $339,864 $373,854
===========================================================================
NOTE 4. INVESTMENTS
During 1999, MSR invested in corporate stocks. At December 31, 1999,
these securities were classified as available-for-sale securities and
are reported at fair value, with unrealized gains included in
comprehensive income. At December 31, 1999, these securities had a fair
value of $200,125, a cost of $196,119, and an unrealized gain of
$4,006. MSR did not have an investment in securities at December 31,
1998.
NOTE 5. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Property, plant and equipment consists of the following:
========================================================================================================
CONSOLIDATED
MSD MSR 1999 1998
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Land, racing plant, and equipment:
Land $ -- $ 77,802 $ 77,802 $ 77,802
Land improvements -- 1,414,619 1,414,619 1,366,319
Buildings and improvements -- 7,240,478 7,240,478 7,022,160
Equipment 11,960 4,309,347 4,321,307 4,250,006
Construction in progress -- 169,441 169,441 2,318
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
11,960 13,211,687 13,223,647 12,718,605
Other properties:
Land 121,671 -- 121,671 121,671
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
133,631 13,211,687 13,345,318 12,840,276
Less accumulated depreciation 1,709 11,192,589 11,194,298 11,002,314
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 131,922 $ 2,019,098 $ 2,151,020 $ 1,837,962
========================================================================================================
17
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTE 6. REAL ESTATE TAXES PAYABLE
In May 1998, Oneida County and MSR entered into an agreement whereby
MSR would make 36 monthly installments of $6,000, commencing May 29,
1998, to satisfy its liability to Oneida County for nonpayment of 1997
property taxes, totaling $216,000, levied against MSR by Oneida County
in 1997.
Future payments required under this agreement are as follows:
================================================================
2000 $ 72,000
2001 30,000
----------------------------------------------------------------
Total real estate taxes payable 102,000
Less current portion 72,000
----------------------------------------------------------------
Real estate taxes payable, net of current portion $ 30,000
================================================================
NOTE 7. MORTGAGE PAYABLE
On May 15, 1998, MSR obtained a $1,000,000 loan from a private lender,
who is also a board member. The loan is collateralized by a first
mortgage on MSR's racing plant, buildings and improvements. The loan
bears interest at 12% and repayment is due on May 15, 2001. No
principal payments are required until the final due date.
The loan agreement required MSR to pay the lender $47,500 in financing
fees at closing. At December 31, 1999, the unamortized portion of
financing fees is included in other assets.
On the fifteenth of each month until the due date of the loan, interest
payments of $10,000 are due to the lender. Financing fees paid at
closing are being amortized over the term of the loan and are included
in interest expense. Interest expense incurred by the Raceway in 1999
and 1998 related to this loan totaled $135,833 and $79,236,
respectively.
In August 1999, MSR obtained $250,000 in loans from two board members,
one of whom is an officer. The loans bear interest at 12%, are secured
by a second mortgage on MSR's racing plant, buildings, and
improvements, and mature in August 2001. No interest has been paid as
of December 31, 1999. Unpaid interest related to these loans
approximating $7,500 through December 31, 1999, is included in accounts
payable and accrued expenses.
18
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTE 8. INCOME TAXES
Net deferred tax assets are provided for the temporary differences
between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their financial
reporting amounts. The temporary differences that give rise to a
significant portion of the deferred tax liability and deferred tax
asset and their approximate tax effect are as follows. The net deferred
tax asset at December 31, 1999 and 1998 has been offset by an
equivalent valuation allowance.
DECEMBER 31
------------------------------------------------------------
1999 1998
-------------------------- --------------------------
TEMPORARY TEMPORARY
DIFFERENCE TAX EFFECT DIFFERENCE TAX EFFECT
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deferred compensation $1,013,000 $ 376,800 $1,013,000 $ 376,800
Net operating loss carryforwards 4,080,000 1,387,000 2,800,000 952,000
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other 14,000 5,600 (4,000) (1,600)
5,107,000 1,769,400 3,809,000 1,327,200
Less valuation allowance -- (1,769,400) -- (1,327,200)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$5,107,000 $ -- $3,809,000 $ --
========================================================================================================
MSR determined that an increase in the valuation allowance at December
31, 1999 was appropriate because of uncertainty concerning the MSR's
ability to utilize net operating loss carryforwards in future years.
The net operating loss carryforward will expire at various dates from
December 31, 2009 through December 31, 2013.
A reconciliation of the provision for income taxes to the statutory
amount is as follows:
==========================================================================================================
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
-------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 1998 1997
------------------- ---------------- --------------------
AMOUNT % AMOUNT % AMOUNT %
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Statutory federal income tax $ (465,000) (34.0) $ 38,500 34.0 $ (188,000) (34.0)
(benefit)
Variances from statutory rate:
Add state income tax, net
of federal tax benefit 3,753 0.3 404 0.4 2,326 0.4
Increase (decrease) in
valuation allowance 442,000 32.3 (26,800) (23.6) 502,100 91.0
Prior year's tax -- -- -- -- -- --
Other 23,000 1.7 (11,700) (10.4) 13,332 2.4
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Effective tax $ 3,753 0.3 $ 404 0.4 $ 329,758 59.8
==========================================================================================================
NOTE 9. LEASES
The Raceway leases certain equipment for use during each racing season
including an agreement for pari-mutuel totalisator equipment and
services.
Total rent expense for the years ended December 31, 1999, 1998, and
1997 amounted to $512,568, $654,910, and $495,481 of which $280,105,
$399,263, and $331,716 was paid on the totalisator contract for the
respective years.
19
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTE 9. LEASES, CONTINUED
The current totalisator lease agreement expires on May 31, 2000. Under
the agreement, rents charged for the equipment and services are
dependent upon the number of live racing meets held and the number of
tracks simulcasted. Future rental charges are dependent upon future
live racing and simulcast events.
NOTE 10. COMMISSIONS FOR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS
In July 1983, legislation was passed permitting Upstate New York
harness tracks to apply for an increase of 1% on-track regular and
multiple bet pools and 1/2 of 1% from OTB regular and multiple bet
pools. Under the law and subject to the approval of the New York State
Racing and Wagering Board, these additional funds must be used for
capital improvements or a portion may be used for advertising. MSR
elected to increase such commissions effective September 14, 1983.
NOTE 11. INVESTMENT (LOSS) INCOME
Investment (loss) income consisted of the following for the years ended
December 31, 1999, 1998, and 1997:
==================================================================================================
DECEMBER 31
1999 1998 1997
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interest and dividends $ 27,921 $ 6,753 $ 787
Equity in earnings (loss) of 50%-owned company (21,323) (24,131) (22,257)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 6,598 $ (17,378) $ (21,470)
==================================================================================================
NOTE 12. AID FROM STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS
This amount consists of New York State Legislative grants for 1999 and
1998. MSR also received a grant from Oneida County, New York in 1998.
NOTE 13. PRIVATE PLACEMENT AND STOCK WARRANTS
During 1999, MSR issued 150,000 shares of common stock, at $10 per
share, through a private placement offering. Additionally, in November
1999, MSR entered into a common stock warrant agreement with two
officers, who are also board members, granting them the option to
purchase at least 150,000 but not more than 175,000 shares of MSR
common stock at $10 per share. This warrant agreement expires on
November 15, 2000. No warrants have been exercised.
NOTE 14. HOTEL LEASE
During fiscal year 1994, MSR, as lessor, entered into a lease agreement
with a company affiliated with MSR's former majority shareholder. MSR
leased, for an initial period of twenty years, a certain portion of
their property for the purpose of permitting the company to construct,
own, and operate a hotel. Construction of the hotel by the company was
completed in October 1994. Anytime during the lease or any renewal
period of the lease, MSR could have elected to assume all of the
lessee's duties, obligations, rights, and responsibilities under the
lease for a nominal amount. Lease payments during the initial twenty
year period were $10,000 per year.
20
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTE 14. HOTEL LEASE, CONTINUED
In May 2000, the lease was terminated, and MSR purchased all of the
issued and outstanding shares of stock of the aforementioned company
for $5,510, plus an additional $48,000 acquisition fee. MSD
subsequently commenced operating the hotel.
MSR operates pari-mutuel wagering on the hotel premises. Net
pari-mutuel commissions and breakage from wagering on these premises
approximated $450,000 for the year ended December 31, 1999 ($1,060,000
for the year ended December 31, 1998 and $840,000 for the year ended
December 31, 1997).
NOTE 15. CONTINGENCIES
NEW YORK STATE RACING AND WAGERING BOARD COMPLIANCE AUDIT
During early 1998, the New York State Racing and Wagering Board (the
Board) reviewed MSR's compliance with the Board's policies and
procedures. Based upon the Board's findings, MSR was fined $416,000 on
March 9, 1998 for instances of non-compliance and was also directed to
reimburse MSR's capital improvement account for any unqualified capital
expenditures. The Board indicated its willingness to abate the fine if
MSR demonstrated compliance during the subsequent (1998) racing season.
On November 13, 1998, the Board retroactively approved all of MSR's
capital expenditures made from 1994 to 1997. As a result, MSR was not
required to reimburse its capital improvement account because all
capital expenditures made during the aforementioned period were deemed
qualified.
On December 17, 1998, based on the receipt of a satisfactory report
from a Board approved compliance monitor, on the status of MSR's
compliance with the Board's policies and procedures subsequent to the
imposition of the fine, the Board discharged the aforementioned
$416,000 fine.
FORMER MAJORITY SHAREHOLDER
In March 1998, MSR provided financial information to a bankruptcy
trustee relating to approximately $1,200,000 of corporate sponsorships
it received over a period of years from bankrupt affiliates of its
former majority shareholder. Subsequently, the trustee commenced a
lawsuit against MSR to recover these payments, based on the theory of
fraudulent conveyance. On November 5, 1999, MSR issued 38,000 shares of
common stock, valued at $10 per share, to the trustee in full
settlement of the claim. The settlement of this lawsuit is classified
as an other loss in the December 31, 1999 consolidated statement of
operations.
21
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTE 15. CONTINGENCIES, CONTINUED
OTHER
In March 1998, MSR voted to terminate its unfunded deferred
compensation plan (Note 1). At December 31, 1999 and 1998, there was a
$1,013,861 liability recorded in MSR's consolidated balance sheet
related to this plan. Subsequent to this termination, a lawsuit was
brought against MSR by beneficiaries of the deferred compensation plan
challenging the plan's termination and seeking damages of $1,200,000.
The lawsuit was settled subsequent to December 31, 1999 with the
beneficiaries receiving 4,380 shares of stock, valued for financial
reporting purposes at $10 per share, in full settlement of their claim.
The gain on this settlement, of approximately $970,000, was recognized
in the first quarter of 2000.
OTHER LITIGATION
MSR is a defendant in various litigation matters arising from its
operations. No estimate can yet be made of the potential liability or
damages, or the likely outcome of the litigation. Management believes
that liabilities resulting from these lawsuits, if any, will be
immaterial or will be completely covered by insurance policies.
NOTE 16. OTHER RELATED PARTY TRANSACTION
In March 1998, MSR sold idle land with nominal book value, to an
affiliate of a member of MSR's Board of Directors for $400,000. The
corresponding gain from this sale is reflected in the statement of
operations for the year ended December 31, 1998.
22
Item 9. Changes in Registrant's Certifying Accountant.
There are no current changes in or disagreements with the Registrant's
certifying accountant.
PART III
Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant.
The directors and executive officers of the Company as of August 1, 2000 are as
follows:
Common Shares
Beneficially
Became Owned as of
Name and Age Director December 31, 1999 Percent
------------ -------- ----------------- -------
Abe Acee, Jr. 1997 200 **
Patrick Bombardo 1998 100 **
* Justice M. Cheney 1997 270 **
* Dominic Giambona 1999 68,833 15.70%
* Thomas M. Hunter 1997 0 **
Edward A. Kiley 1999 250 **
* Jeremiah Law 1997 510 **
Dr. Robert Legler, DVM 1999 0 **
James J. Moran 1986 100 **
Paul V. Noyes 1998 10,600 2.42%
* John J. Signorelli 1999 68,833 15.70%
Wesley E. Wendt, Sr. 1999 1,134 **
James R. Wise -- 100 **
23
* Member of Executive Committee
** Less than one percent
All officers and directors as a group 151,030 34.45%
(including individuals named above)
ABE ACEE, JR. (age 54) has served as a Director since December, 1997. Mr. Acee
has been a resident of Vernon, New York for 20 years and owns the Nothin' Fancy
Cafe and Country Edition in Vernon, New York. From 1977 to 1993, Mr. Acee
provided feed service to Vernon Downs and also brokered hay and straw to major
standardbred and thoroughbred facilities and breeding farms in the northeastern
United States. Mr. Acee is one of the founders of the Vernon Merchants
Association and continues to be an active member of the Association.
PATRICK BOMBARDO (age 57) has served as a Director since August 1998. In
addition to his current position as Chief Operating Officer of the Company, he
has served as Director of Gaming and Interim Chief Financial Officer of the
Company. Prior to joining the Company in September 1999, he was General Manager
of the Comfort Suites Hotel at Vernon Downs. Mr. Bombardo is an experienced
professional with more than 20 years of business experience, specializing in
accounting, operations, management, training and finance. He served as Chief
Financial Officer/Controller at J-K Independent Lumber Corporation in New
Hartford from 1986 to February 1998. He possesses leadership experience in
retailing, manufacturing and service organizations.
JUSTICE M. CHENEY (age 67) is currently Vice-President and General Manager of
the Company and has served as a Director since 1997. Mr. Cheney was President
and Chief Executive Officer of the Company from December, 1997 to September,
1999. He was an adjunct professor with the Department of Vocational/Technical
Education, SUNY Oswego. He has been a member of the United States Trotting
Association since 1953 and is licensed as an owner, trainer, driver and breeder
of standardbred horses. He has raced harness horses as both a driver and trainer
at Vernon Downs, Saratoga Raceway and various New York State and County Fairs.
DOMINIC A. GIAMBONA (age 61) has been Executive Vice President of the Company
since August 1999 and has served as a Director since August 1999. Mr. Giambona
is a private investor and business consultant. Born and raised in Rome, NY, Mr.
Giambona now resides in Vero Beach, Florida. He is a graduate of Syracuse
University and has 40 years experience with building construction, facilities
management and development and marketing.
THOMAS M. HUNTER (age 53) has served as a Director since December 1997. He has
been a licensed Standardbred trainer since 1980 and is licensed as such by the
New York State Racing and Wagering Board. Mr. Hunter is currently employed by
H&B
24
Marketing working in the area of advertising sales. Prior to 1992, Mr. Hunter
was a self-employed businessman working in telecommunications management,
marketing sales and development.
EDWARD A. KILEY (age 58) has served as a Director since June 1999. He is a 1964
graduate of Brown University and Dean's List and Cum Laude graduate of the
Syracuse University School of Law. A member of the New York, Florida and United
States Supreme Court bars before retiring from the practice of law in 1995, he
is currently employed as a financial planner. He is the eldest son of Vernon
Downs founder William F. Kiley.
JEREMIAH LAW (age 48) has served as a Director of the Company since December,
1997. He is the proprietor of the Squat and Gobble Restaurant in Vernon, New
York.
DR. ROBERT LEGLER, DVM (age 53) has served as a Director since June 1999. Dr.
Legler underwent his pre-med studies at Siena College after four years of United
States Submarine Service where he attained the rank of Petty Officer 1st Class.
He is a 1965 graduate of Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine. He
worked at the Gluck Equine Research Station-University of Kentucky as an intern,
and as an assistant to Dr. John Steele in Vernon. He set up his own veterinary
practice in 1968 and has been employed as the track veterinarian at Vernon Downs
since 1995. He has owned and managed the Bar-Log, Inc. logging and building
operation and the Barb Farm, which is devoted to the breeding and racing of
standardbreds. He also maintained a competitive stable of several horses. He is
presently the owner and general manager of the Vernon Apartments. Dr. Legler
serves on the Town of Vernon Zoning Board of Appeals.
JAMES J. MORAN (age 60) has been Director of Publicity/Public Relations since
1975 and Track Announcer since 1964 and has served as a Director since 1986. Mr.
Moran was Secretary of the Company from 1994 to September 1999 and Assistant
Secretary from 1985 to September 1999. He is past President and Chairman of the
Board of the North American Harness Publicists Association and
Secretary/Treasurer of the Vernon Chapter of the United States Harness Writers
Association.
PAUL V. NOYES (age 69) has served as a Director since August 1998 and has been
Secretary of the Company since September 1999. He is a prominent area lawyer
with an office in Sherrill, New York. He is a graduate of Hamilton College and
Cornell University Law School. He is a Board member of the Mid-York Foundation,
Kenwood Benevolent Society, Oneida Community Mansion House, Madison County
Children's Camp, Mid-York Library System, and serves as Treasurer for the
Madison County Democrat Committee
JOHN J. SIGNORELLI (age 58) has been President and Chief Executive Officer of
the Company since September 1999 and has served as Director since August 1999.
Mr. Signorelli is a senior partner of Success Financial Group, a business
consulting firm
25
located in Mt. Kisko, New York. Mr. Signorelli has engaged in venture capital
and business consulting activities in the equine, securities and health care
industries. Mr. Signorelli is also the founder and a current board member of
Transpirator Technologies, Inc. Mr. Signorelli's standardbred activities include
Chief Executive Officer and founder of Saratoga Standardbreds, Inc., a breeding
facility, from 1979-1991; founder and president of Preferred Equine Marketing,
Inc. (PEM); founder of Saratoga Fence, Inc., specializing in PVC fencing and
president of the Spring Garden Ranch training center. Mr. Signorelli has also
been a prominent owner of harness racehorses, brood mares and stallions since
1978.
WESLEY E. WENDT, SR. (age 53) has served as a Director since June 1999. He is a
self-made and successful businessman. Mr. Wendt has bought, improved and then
sold many properties in Oneida and Madison Counties. In addition, he has owned
and operated several restaurants, most notably Dibbles Inn in Vernon, New York.
In the Spring of 1998, when this track was close to financial collapse, he
organized on short notice a loan of one million dollars to the track. For many
years, he has supported very quietly and generously many civic causes.
JAMES R. WISE (age 53) has been Treasurer of the Company since November, 1997.
Mr. Wise is a certified public accountant in New York State. He is a member of
the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and New York
Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA). Prior to 1997, Mr. Wise was
Director of Finance/Administration for a multi-state law firm for 12 years and
worked for an international public accounting firm for 14 years.
The Board of Directors of the Company has Executive and Compensation Committees.
Although the Company does not have a Nominating Committee, the Board of
Directors, as a committee of the whole, performs the functions of such a
committee by reviewing nominations suggested by any of its members and then
making a recommendation to the shareholders. The Board of Directors will
consider shareholders' recommendations for directors sent to Paul V. Noyes,
Secretary, Mid-State Raceway, Inc., P.O. Box 860, Vernon, New York 13476;
provided, however, such recommendations must be received at least 20 days prior
to the annual shareholders meeting to be considered at that meeting.
The Executive Committee exercises all the powers of the Board of Directors
during the interval between meetings of the Board, subject to such limitations
as exist by law or as may be provided in the By-Laws or by resolution of the
Board of Directors. A majority of the Executive Committee is required to
constitute a quorum to conduct business.
Compensation of Directors
Directors of the Company are not paid any fees or remuneration for service as
members of the Board of Directors. During the year ended December 31, 1996, the
26
Board of Directors passed a resolution to discontinue compensation to
non-employee directors for Board meetings and Committee meetings attended. That
resolution continues in effect.
Item 11. Executive Compensation.
The following table sets forth the annual and long-term compensation of the
Company's Chief Executive Officer for services to the Company during the three
fiscal years ended December 31, 1999.
Name and Principal Position Year Salary Bonus Other
- --------------------------- ---- ------------ -----
John J. Signorelli 1999 $26,000
(President and Chief Executive
Officer from September 8, 1999)
Justice M. Cheney 1999 $42,692
(President and Chief Executive
Officer to September 8, 1999)
No other executive officer received an annual salary and bonus in excess of
$100,000 over the last three fiscal years. John J. Signorelli is currently
receiving a monthly consulting fee of $6,500 ($78,000 annually).
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficiary Owners and Management.
At the close of business on December 31, 1999, the Company had outstanding
438,386 shares of common stock. No person or group is known by the Company to
beneficially own more than 5% of the Company's common stock except as set forth
in the following table:
Amount and Nature
Name and Address of Beneficial Percent
of Beneficial Owner Ownership Class
- ------------------- ----------------- -------
Standardbred Enterprises, Ltd. 126,657 shares 28.89%
3837 Peterboro Road
Oneida, NY 13421
Dominic A. Giambona 68,833 shares 15.70%
John J. Signorelli 68,833 shares 15.70%
27
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.
In March, 1998, the Company sold 126 acres of surplus vacant land on Collamer
Road in Onondaga County to E.L. Management of Syracuse Corp. for $400,000.
Edward Leffler, a Director of the Company, is the sole shareholder of E.L.
Management of Syracuse Corp.
In addition, Notes 13 and 14 of the consolidated financial statements included
in this Form 10-K are incorporated by reference.
PART IV
Item 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K.
(a) 1. Financial Statements Page
----
Included in Part II, Item 8 of this report
Independent Auditor's Report 10
Consolidated Balance Sheets,
December 31, 1999 and 1998 11
Consolidated Statements of Operations,
Years Ended December 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997 12
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders'
Equity, Years Ended December 31, 1999,
December 31, 1998 and December 31, 1997 13
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows,
Years Ended December 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997 14
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 15-22
2. Consolidated Financial Statement Schedules
Schedules have been omitted because they are not required, not
applicable, or the required information is shown in the
consolidated financial statements or notes thereto.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K
A Form 8-K was filed for the quarter ended December 31, 1999. The Form
8-K is attached as Exhibit "A".
28
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on it
behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the Village of Vernon,
State of New York, on the 8th day of August, 2000.
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC.
By: /s/ JOHN J. SIGNORELLI
---------------------------------
John J. Signorelli,
President and Chief
Executive Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report
has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and
in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
Signature Title Date
- ---------- ----- ----
/s/ JOHN J. SIGNORELLI
- ----------------------- President, Chief Executive 8/8/00
John J. Signorelli Officer and Director
/s/ DOMINIC A. GIAMBONA
- ----------------------- Executive Vice President 8/8/00
Dominic A. Giambona and Director
/s/ JUSTICE M. CHENEY
- ----------------------- Vice President, General 8/8/00
Justice M. Cheney Manager and Director
/s/ PAUL V. NOYES
- ----------------------- Secretary and Director 8/8/00
Paul V. Noyes
/s/ JAMES R. WISE
- ----------------------- Treasurer (Principal 8/8/00
James R. Wise Financial and Accounting
Officer)
/s/ ABE ACEE, JR.
- ----------------------- Director 8/8/00
Abe Acee, Jr.
/s/ PATRICK BOMBARDO
- ----------------------- Director 8/8/00
Patrick Bombardo
- ----------------------- Director 8/8/00
Thomas M. Hunter
29
Signature Title Date
- ---------- ----- ----
/s/ EDWARD A. KILEY
- -------------------------- Director 8/8/00
Edward A. Kiley
- -------------------------- Director 8/8/00
Jeremiah Law
/s/ DR. ROBERT LEGLER, DVM
- -------------------------- Director 8/8/00
Dr. Robert Legler, DVM
/s/ JAMES J. MORAN
- -------------------------- Director 8/8/00
James J. Moran
- -------------------------- Director 8/8/00
Wesley E. Wendt, Sr.