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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, 1998
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:
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(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.
$1,752,702.00 Class
------
COMMON STOCK $.10 PAR VALUE
Outstanding at March 1, 1999
250,386 SHARES
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
None.
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The total number of pages in this report is 33
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FORM 10-K ANNUAL REPORT -- 1998
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC.
PART I Page
----
Item 1. Business ................................................... 3
Item 2. Properties ................................................. 3
Item 3. Legal Proceedings .......................................... 3
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a vote of Security Holders ........ 5
PART II
Item 5. Market for the Registrant's Common Stock and Related
Security Holder Matters .................................. 6
Item 6. Selected Financial Data .................................... 8
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations ...................... 9
Item 8. Financial Statements ....................................... 12
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on
Accounting and Financial Disclosure ...................... 26
PART III
Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant ......... 26
Item 11. Executive Compensation ..................................... 29
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners
and Management ........................................... 29
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions ............. 29
PART IV
Item 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports
on Form 8-K .............................................. 30
-2-
PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS.
(a) 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 Racing and Wagering Board to conduct harness racing
at its track and to simulcast racing from other tracks.
(b) The Company is engaged in one business segment.
(c) Generally, Mid-State Raceway is not in competition with other harness racing
tracks in New York State for 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.
(d) The Company's Board of Directors approved a year 2000 compliance action plan
on December 15,1998. The Company expects to complete the plan prior to the end
of 1999. The cost of making the Company year 2000 compliant is anticipated to be
less than $20,000 and is not material.
Increased off-track wagering on thoroughbred and harness racing due to a live
television signal being sent into OTB shops in Central New York, the New York
State Lottery and the Oneida Indian Nation's Turning Stone Casino, approximately
7 miles away in Verona, New York, all continue to hold down Vernon's on-track
daily averages of handle and attendance.
Competition for good horses with the resultant attractive racing programs, has
increased in recent years, particularly from the metropolitan New York and New
Jersey area. This has adversely affected both the number and quality of horses
running at Vernon Downs.
The Company employed 181 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, 1998, $193,170 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.
The track is 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 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.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.
(a) Richard C. Breeden, Trustee of the Bennett Funding Group, Inc., and other
related entities has commenced a lawsuit against the Company to recover
payments in the
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amount of $1,182,636.85 made to the Company from Bennett Funding Group and
related entities between June 30, 1990 and January 26, 1996. The claims are
based on the theory of fraudulent conveyance. The Company disputes this
claim because the payments were made for corporate sponsorships for
specific corporate race/night sponsorships and corporate stake races.
Among other things, a successful claim of fraudulent conveyance must prove
that the consideration received for payments made was inadequate. Although
the Company has presented detailed schedules and documentation showing the
payments for valuable services provided, the determination of the value of
those services, and therefore, the amount of the fraudulent conveyance, if
any, is a factual matter with respect to which the company can not predict
the outcome.
(b) On March 5, 1998, the New York State Racing and Wagering Board imposed a
fine of $416,000. The Racing and Wagering Board suspended the fine pending
receipt by the Board of a satisfactory compliance report from a
Board-approved compliance monitor by November 29, 1998. Subsequent to the
1998 racing season, the Racing and Wagering Board withdrew the fine.
(c) Jerome Wilson, Frank White, Sr., and Robert Jaquint, former Officers of the
Company, have 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.
Annual payments in the approximate amount of One Hundred Ten Thousand
Dollars ($110,000) in the aggregate were being made to beneficiaries at the
time the Company eliminated the Plan. The lawsuit alleges damages of One
Million Two Hundred Thousand Dollars ($1,200,000). The Company continues to
carry a long-term liability for the Plan on its balance sheet in the amount
of $1,013,861 for deferred compensation benefits under the Plan.
The Company has submitted an Answer to the Complaint in the action
vigorously defending its right to eliminate the Plan and asserting a number
of affirmative defenses and counterclaims. The primary defense is that the
Plan is voidable because it was improperly enacted by the Plaintiffs in
their positions as Officers and Directors of the Company because it was
principally for their benefit and was not fair and reasonable to the
Company and its shareholders. The Company is also counter claiming against
the Plaintiffs for breach of fiduciary duty for their enactment of the Plan
and receipt of payments thereunder from the Company.
The Company believes that the Plaintiffs' claims are not supported by the
law and facts of the case and that the Company will prevail in this matter.
However, there can be no assurance that the Company will prevail.
(d) The Company held a shareholders meeting on January 18, 1999 to obtain its
shareholders' consent to eliminate shareholder pre-emptive rights. It was
necessary to eliminate pre-emptive rights in order to have the right to go
forward with a private offering in order to raise capital. A private
offering of stock would dilute the existing shareholders' percentage
interest in the Company and would reduce the 51% interest in the Company
held by Standardbred Enterprises, Inc. below 50%. N.W. Investors, L.L.C.,
and the Trustee in the Bennett Bankruptcy (both of whom claim ownership of
-4-
the Company's stock held by Standardbred Enterprises, Inc.) asked the
Bankruptcy Court to block the shareholders meeting. The Court declined to
intercede to block the shareholders meeting. However, the Court required
the Company to notify N.W. Investors, L.L.C., and the Trustee in the
Bennett Bankruptcy in the event it decides to go forward with a private
offering. No damages were asked in the lawsuit and the Court Order does not
appear to have a material impact on the Company's financial position.
(e) The Company is a defendant along with several other parties in four
separate lawsuits alleging damages on account of personal injuries
sustained by attendees at concerts that took place on Mid-State's premises.
All of these actions are being defended by the Company's liability insurer.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITIES HOLDERS.
The annual meeting of the shareholders of the Company was held on August 13,
1998. At the meeting, four directors were elected to three-year terms that will
expire in the year 2001. James J. Moran was elected to continue as a director of
the Company and Paul V. Noyes, Gwen Bennett and Patrick Bombardo were elected as
new directors of the Company.
The By-Laws were amended at the meeting to provide for removal of any Director
who is not licensed by the New York State Racing and Wagering Board. No further
business was conducted at the meeting.
The voting tabulation for the election of directors was as follows:
For Abstain
------- -------
Paul V. Noyes .................. 138,127 1,114
Gwen Bennett ................... 138,150 1,401
Patrick Bombardo ............... 138,724 1,191
James Moran .................... 139,479 762
Voting on the amendment for the By-Laws was 139,238 for, 0 against and 831
abstentions.
-5-
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 over-the-counter market under the
symbol "MRWY". The stock is not listed or reported by any stock market
exchange or by NASDAQ.
The following table shows the high and low bid prices 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, 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
Bid Prices
----------------------------
Year Ended December 31, 1997
----------------------------
Low High
----- -----
Quarter Ended March 31 .............. $5.00 $5.00
Quarter Ended June 30 ............... $5.00 $5.25
Quarter Ended September 30 .......... $5.00 $5.00
Quarter Ended December 31 ........... $5.00 $5.00
-6-
(b) Approximate Number of Equity Security Holders
Title of Class Number of Record Holders
-------------- ------------------------
Common Stock, $.10 par value per share ......... 546
(c) Dividends
There were no dividends paid during the years ended December 31, 1998 and
1997.
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.
-7-
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
9 Months Year
Years Ended December 31 Ended Ended
----------------------------------- December 31, March 31,
1998 1997 1996 1995 1995
---------- ----------- --------- ------------ -----------
OPERATING RESULTS
Number of racing days ................................... 122 77 115 122 155
Operating revenues:
Pari-mutuel commissions and breakage .................... $6,570,523 $5,626,308 $7,050,079 $7,121,567 $7,415,272
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Less payments to New York State ......................... 265,102 231,965 297,001 291,317 543,773
Breeders' Fund .......................................... 220,886 180,167 238,859 271,316 267,838
Purses .................................................. 144,035 106,323 188,888 223,586 320,981
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
630,023 518,455 724,748 786,219 1,132,592
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Net pari-mutuel commissions and breakage ................ 5,940,500 5,107,853 6,325,331 6,335,348 6,282,680
Admissions .............................................. 70,925 61,740 92,655 123,522 240,667
Concessions and other revenues .......................... 491,562 211,734 311,094 679,410 1,134,225
----------- ----------- ---------- ----------- -----------
Total operating revenues ............................ 6,502,987 5,381,327 6,729,080 7,138,280 7,657,572
----------- ----------- ---------- ----------- -----------
Operating expenses:
Purses ............................................... 1,886,450 1,298,244 2,259,038 2,378,086 2,583,262
Other ................................................ 5,415,071 4,694,672 5,880,547 5,223,229 5,980,559
----------- ----------- ---------- ----------- -----------
Total operating expenses ............................ 7,301,521 5,992,916 8,139,585 7,601,315 8,563,821
----------- ----------- ---------- ----------- -----------
Loss from operations ................................ (798,534) (611,589) (1,410,505) (463,035) (906,249)
----------- ----------- ---------- ----------- -----------
Other income:
Commissions for capital improvements ................. 86,330 81,952 146,224 140,985 192,488
Investment income (loss) ............................. (20,603) (21,470) 6,367 31,434 30,380
Aid from state and local governments ................. 372,750 -- -- -- --
Gain on sale of land ................................. 399,999 -- -- -- --
Gain on sale of other assets ......................... 73,500 -- -- -- --
----------- ----------- ---------- ----------- -----------
Total other income .................................. 911,976 60,482 152,591 172,419 222,868
----------- ----------- ---------- ----------- -----------
Loss before taxes on income ......................... 113,442 (551,107) (1,257,914) (290,616) (683,381)
Provision (credit) for taxes on income .................. 404 329,758 103,524 18,163 (11,770)
----------- ----------- ---------- ----------- -----------
NET LOSS ............................................ $113,038 ($880,865)($1,361,438) ($308,779) ($671,611)
=========== =========== ========== =========== ===========
Per share of common stock:
Net income (loss)*.................................... $0.45 ($3.52) ($5.44) ($1.23) ($2.68)
Cash dividends ....................................... $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
Shareholders' equity*................................. $1.75 $1.30 $4.82 $10.26 $11.47
9 Months Year
Years Ended December 31 Ended Ended
----------------------------------- December 31, March 31,
1998 1997 1996 1995 1995
----------- ----------- --------- ------------ -----------
FINANCIAL CONDITION
Numbers of racing days .................................. 122 77 115 122 155
Current assets .......................................... 1,274,200 466,963 694,165 1,228,020 1,582,667
Marketable securities-due after 1 year .................. -- -- 89,100 270,770 248,722
Net property, plant and equipment ....................... 1,837,962 1,857,557 2,066,520 1,933,496 2,018,003
Other assets ............................................ 77,606 105,903 454,062 576,462 572,942
----------- ----------- ---------- ----------- -----------
3,189,768 2,430,423 3,303,847 4,008,748 4,422,334
=========== =========== ========== =========== ===========
Current liabilities ..................................... 634,814 1,198,072 1,186,621 508,558 520,195
Non-current liabilities ................................. 2,115,861 906,296 908,011 929,731 1,030,857
Sharesholders' equity ................................... 439,093 326,055 1,209,215 2,570,459 2,871,282
----------- ----------- ---------- ----------- -----------
3,189,768 2,430,423 3,303,847 4,008,748 4,422,334
=========== =========== ========== =========== ===========
- ----------------
*Based on weighted average shares outstanding.
-8-
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
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.
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. The Company has contacted a computer technician who has
commenced work on upgrading the hardware and software. The technician has
determined that the major computer software programs used by the Company are
year 2000 compliant.
The Company uses a software program entitled "Horseman's Accounting System"
which was developed by Thomas Riley of Horizon Software, Inc. Mr. Riley has
notified the Company that the system is not yet year 2000 compliant, but will be
updated to be year 2000 compliant by mid-1999. Furthermore, Mr. Riley will
provide the Company with a written statement of year 2000 compliance prior to
January 1, 2000.
The Company has a material and significant vendor, AMTOTE, that provides odds
and calculates winnings for the Company's horse racing events. AMTOTE provides
both hardware and software for these operations. The failure of AMTOTE's system
would have a material adverse impact on the Company's business because it could
not operate pari-mutuel betting. However, the Company has received a letter from
AMTOTE committing to be year 2000 compliant by the end of 1998. That letter
stated that the majority of AMTOTE's systems were for the most part compliant
and they were working to correct the portions of their system that
-9-
were not year 2000 compliant. The Company's management expects, based on
AMTOTE's representations, that AMTOTE's equipment will be fully year 2000
compliant prior to the end of 1999.
The Company has two other vendors that provide simulcast video transmissions.
The Company expects to receive letters from those vendors that they will be year
2000 compliant.
In summary, the Company expects to be fully year 2000 compliant prior to the end
of 1999. Furthermore, the maximum cost to the Company of $20,000 is not
considered material to the Company. The Company does not have a contingency plan
because it fully expects to be year 2000 compliant without material additional
work required of it or its vendors.
STATISTICAL COMPARISON:
12 MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997 VS. 12 MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996
Twelve Months Ended
December 31,
---------------------------- INCREASE
1998 1997 (DECREASE)
----------- ----------- -----------
GROSS HANDLE:
Live Harness ................. $ 8,230,547 $ 6,120,734 $ 2,109,813
OTB & ITW .................... 12,266,211 8,182,247 4,083,964
Thoroughbred Simulcast ....... 4,423,114 5,765,799 (1,342,685)
Harness Simulcast ............ 11,159,980 8,794,185 2,365,795
----------- ----------- -----------
36,079,852 28,682,965 7,216,887
DAILY AVERAGE:
Live Harness Handle .......... $ 67,464 $ 79,490 $ (12,027)
OTB & ITW Handle ............. 100,543 106,263 ( 5,720)
Attendance 183,949 ........... 1,508 1,666 (158)
LIVE RACING DAYS ............. 122 77 45
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997 AS COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996
During the year ended December 1997, operating revenues decreased by $1,347,753,
as compared with the year ended December 31, 1996. A substantial portion of the
reduced operating revenues was due to 38 fewer live racing days during the 1997
racing season. Net corporate sponsorship of racing events decreased $13,224 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 $840,000.
The current year operating expenses decreased $2,146,669 compared to the year
ended December 31, 1996. The principal cause for the decrease was the reduction
in the number of live racing days.
-10-
The Company's simulcast operations continued to expand, offering a variety of
racing from over 56 different harness and thoroughbred tracks from around the
country and internationally during the year ended December 31, 1997. While the
simulcast operation operates at a profitable margin, the revenues are not
sufficient to cover the losses experienced through live racing.
SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
The Company is lobbying for the State to amend the laws that regulate track
operations to (1) provide for unlimited simulcasting if a track conducts live
racing just two days a week, and (2) change the required number of dates a track
is required to run live races each year from 75% of the number of live races in
1985 down to a suggested 30% of the number of races in 1985. The Company is
optimistic that all or part of the proposed bill would be passed. Management
believes that if the track is allowed to reduce its live racing dates while
continuing to run a full simulcasting schedule, the Company can generate a
profit from operations.
The Company continues to request grants from state and local authorities to
ameliorate some of its capital expenditures and promotion expenditures. The
Company received grants totalling $372,750 during 1998 and has received
commitments for grants totalling $400,000 in 1999.
The Board of Directors of the Company have voted to proceed with a private
placement stock offering to raise a minimum of $100,000 and a maximum of
$1,500,000 by issuing shares of the Company's stock at $10.00 a share. The funds
will be used to provide needed working capital, provide needed capital
improvements and roof repair, and provide necessary funds for promotion and
advertising for the track. As set forth in Item 3, Legal Proceedings, above, the
Trustee in the Bennett Funding bankruptcy and the members of N.W. Investors,
L.L.C. may object to the offering in Bankruptcy Court on the grounds that the
offering of stock would dilute the majority shareholder of the Company,
Standardbred Enterprises, Inc. There can be no assurance that the Court will
allow the Company to go forward with the offering.
The Company is also pursuing private lenders to obtain a loan or loans as an
alternative to the stock offering.
In addition to funding options as set forth above, the Company plans to do or
has done the following to improve its condition and improve the efficiency of
its operations:
a. Increase the number of events using the facility.
b. Eliminate expenditures not necessary to the operation of the facility.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
In 1999, the funding of business operations and capital requirements for the
Company will be substantially sourced from existing cash, anticipated stock
offering or anticipated loans, and expected grants from government agencies. The
Company's current ratio at December 31, 1998 was approximately 2 to 1. The
Company's current ratio at December 31, 1997 was approximately 1/2 to 1.
In 1998, the Company obtained a mortgage loan in the amount of $1,000,000 from a
private lender who also provides concession services to the Company. The loan
bears interest at 12% and is due on May 15, 2001. The Company will need to
obtain a loan or additional equity to repay the loan.
-11-
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
UK Urbach Kahn & Werlin PC
&W CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders
Mid-State Raceway, Inc.
We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of Mid-State Raceway, Inc. as of
December 31, 1998 and 1997, and the related statements of operations, changes in
shareholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period
ended December 31, 1998. 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 financial statements referred to above present fairly, in
all material respects, the financial position of Mid-State Raceway, Inc. as of
December 31, 1998 and 1997, and the results of its operations and its cash flows
for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1998, in conformity
with generally accepted accounting principles.
The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming the Company
will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 15 to the financial
statements, the Company incurred significant operating losses in 1998, 1997 and
1996, and is subject to several contingent liabilities as further explained in
Note 13, that raise substantial doubt about its ability to continue as a going
concern. Management's plans in regard to these matters are also described in
Note 15. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might
result from the outcome of these uncertainties.
/S/ URBACH KAHN & WERLIN PC
----------------------------------
Albany, New York
March 11, 1999
-12-
66 State Street, Albany, NY 12207-2595 (518)449-3166 FAX(518)449-5832
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC.
BALANCE SHEETS
DECEMBER 31, 1998 AND 1997
================================================================================
1998 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash $ 437,241 $ 195,997
Cash restricted for purses, capital
improvements and uncashed winning tickets 87,478 62,210
Grant receivable 122,750 --
Receivables, net of allowance for doubtful
accounts of $22,000 in 1998 and $7,000 in 1997 373,854 187,016
Other current assets 252,877 21,740
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total current assets 1,274,200 466,963
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Land, racing plant and equipment 12,718,605 12,555,965
Other properties 121,671 121,672
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12,840,276 12,677,637
Less accumulated depreciation 11,002,314 10,820,080
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1,837,962 1,857,557
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OTHER ASSETS
Other assets 77,606 105,903
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
77,606 105,903
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 3,189,768 $ 2,430,423
================================================================================
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Current portion of real estate taxes payable $ 72,000 $ --
Accounts payable and accrued expenses 482,768 1,028,297
Uncashed winning tickets 59,258 62,210
Retention for capital improvements 20,788 --
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total current liabilities 634,814 1,090,507
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
REAL ESTATE TAXES PAYABLE, less current portion 102,000 --
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MORTGAGE PAYABLE 1,000,000 --
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DEFERRED RETIREMENT BENEFITS (Note 13) 1,013,861 1,013,861
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CONTINGENCIES (Note 13)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Common stock, par value $.10 per share;
authorized 10,000,000 shares;
issued and outstanding 250,386 shares 25,039 25,039
Additional paid-in capital 225,347 225,347
Retained earnings 188,707 75,669
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total shareholders' equity 439,093 326,055
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 3,189,768 $ 2,430,423
================================================================================
See Notes to Financial Statements.
-13-
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC.
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998, 1997 AND 1996
=================================================================================================================
FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR
ENDED ENDED ENDED
DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 31,
1998 1997 1996
(122 RACING DAYS) (77 RACING DAYS) (115 RACING DAYS)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating revenues:
Net pari-mutuel commissions and breakage from wagering:
Vernon Downs Harness $ 1,454,373 $ 1,054,039 $ 1,840,413
Off-track betting (OTB) 1,514,899 1,369,151 1,468,103
Simulcasting 2,971,228 2,684,663 3,016,815
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5,940,500 5,107,853 6,325,331
Admissions 70,925 61,740 92,655
Concessions 290,903 109,236 142,721
Corporate sponsors 22,614 5,000 18,224
Other revenues 178,045 97,498 150,149
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total operating revenues 6,502,987 5,381,327 6,729,080
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating expenses:
Purses 1,886,450 1,298,244 2,259,038
Payroll 1,484,055 1,240,253 1,588,250
Taxes, other than income 386,807 384,469 357,590
Outside services and rentals 563,342 381,483 562,175
Utilities 448,049 434,458 627,096
Simulcasting expenses 1,010,918 999,772 1,054,426
Depreciation 197,667 233,356 245,805
Bad debts 18,837 9,905 33,769
Other expenses 1,305,396 1,010,976 1,411,436
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total operating expenses 7,301,521 5,992,916 8,139,585
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Loss from operations (798,534) (611,589) (1,410,505)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other income:
Commissions for capital improvements 86,330 81,952 146,224
Aid from state and local governments 372,750 - -
Gain on sale of land 399,999 - -
Gain on sale of other assets 73,500 - -
Investment income (loss) (20,603) (21,470) 6,367
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total other income 911,976 60,482 152,591
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income (loss) before provision for federal and state
income taxes 113,442 (551,107) (1,257,914)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Provision for federal and state income taxes:
Currently payable 404 2,326 3,524
Deferred - 327,432 100,000
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
404 329,758 103,524
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net income (loss) $ 113,038 $ (880,865) $(1,361,438)
=================================================================================================================
Income (loss) per common share $ 0.45 $ (3.52) $ (5.44)
=================================================================================================================
Cash dividends per share $ - $ - $ -
=================================================================================================================
See Notes to Financial Statements.
-14-
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC.
STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998, 1997 AND 1996
====================================================================================================================================
COMMON STOCK ADDITIONAL UNREALIZED GAIN
[-- ISSUED AND OUTSTANDING --] PAID-IN RETAINED (LOSS) ON
SHARES AMOUNT CAPITAL EARNINGS INVESTMENTS TOTAL
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balances at January 1, 1996 250,386 $ 25,039 $ 225,347 $ 2,317,972 $ 2,101 $ 2,570,459
Net loss for the year - - - (1,361,438) - (1,361,438)
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on investments - - - - 194 194
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balances at December 31, 1996 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 (loss) on investments - - - - (2,295) (2,295)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balances at December 31, 1997 250,386 25,039 225,347 75,669 - 326,055
Net income for the year - - - 113,038 - 113,038
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balances at December 31, 1998 250,386 $ 25,039 $ 225,347 $ 188,707 $ - $ 439,093
====================================================================================================================================
See Notes to Financial Statements.
-15-
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC.
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998, 1997 AND 1996
=================================================================================================================
FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR
ENDED ENDED ENDED
DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 31,
1998 1997 1996
(122 RACING DAYS) (77 RACING DAYS) (115 RACING DAYS)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income (loss) $ 113,038 $ (880,865) $ (1,361,438)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash
used in operating activities:
Depreciation 197,667 233,356 245,805
Net amortization/accretion of investments - 26 4,705
Deferred income taxes - 327,432 100,000
Allowance for (recoveries of) doubtful accounts 15,000 (23,000) 30,000
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 (25,268) 128,332 (33,143)
Accounts and grants receivable (324,588) 39,880 120,860
Prepaid expenses (231,137) 27,371 122,182
Other assets (20,703) 22,257 6,500
Real estate taxes payable 174,000 - -
Accounts payable (545,529) 146,413 629,150
Purse funds - (103,210) 4,040
Uncashed winning tickets (2,952) (25,122) 29,103
Retention for capital improvements 20,788 - -
Deferred retirement benefits - (1,715) (5,950)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash used in operating activities (1,088,587) (112,183) (108,186)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from maturities and sales of available-for-sale
investment securities - 104,093 456,989
Purchase of available-for-sale investment securities - - (285,000)
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 (193,170) (33,654) (378,829)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by (used in) investing
activities 329,831 71,639 (206,840)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from mortgage loan 1,000,000 - -
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by financing activities 1,000,000 - -
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash 241,244 (40,544) (315,026)
Cash at beginning of year 195,997 236,541 551,567
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash at end of year $ 437,241 $ 195,997 $ 236,541
=================================================================================================================
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW
INFORMATION
Cash paid (received) during the year for:
Interest $ 120,000 $ - $ -
Income taxes $ 712 $ 2,353 $ (13,824)
=================================================================================================================
SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULE OF NONCASH
INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Equipment returned upon termination of capital
lease agreement $ - $ 6,630 $ -
=================================================================================================================
See Notes to Financial Statements.
-16-
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
================================================================================
NOTE 1. NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
NATURE OF OPERATIONS:
Mid-State Raceway, Inc. (the "Company"), known as Vernon Downs,
operates a harness racing track in Vernon, New York. The Company is
licensed by the New York State Racing and Wagering Board to conduct
harness racing at its track and to simulcast racing from other
tracks. Such license is subject to annual renewal.
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.
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 1/2 years
Equipment 3 to 20 years
===================================================================
RETIREMENT PLANS:
The Company sponsors a number of retirement plans that cover
substantially all employees. One group of union employees are covered
under an industry-wide union pension plan. The other group of union
employees are covered under a defined contribution individual account
retirement severance plan which is funded currently. In October 1997,
the union employees voted to terminate the defined contribution
individual account retirement severance plan. The total contribution
under both plans for the years ended December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
was $18,265, $18,791, and $35,996, respectively.
-17-
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
================================================================================
NOTE 1. NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES,
CONTINUED
RETIREMENT PLANS, CONTINUED:
The remaining employees were covered by a defined contribution
currently funded individual account retirement plan or an unfunded
deferred compensation plan. Total expense charged to operations for
these plans amounted to $26,891, $105,850, and $113,615 for the years
ended December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996, respectively. The Company
terminated the deferred compensation plan during March 1998 (Note 13)
and believes that it will not incur any additional expense or make
additional payments against this liability. Subsequent to this
termination, a lawsuit was brought against the Company by
beneficiaries of the deferred compensation plan challenging the
plan's termination. The outcome of this lawsuit is not determinable
at December 31, 1998. The defined contribution currently funded
individual account retirement plan was terminated by the Company,
effective December 31, 1996.
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 250,386
during the years ended December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996.
ADVERTISING:
The Company follows the policy of charging the costs of advertising
to expense as incurred. Advertising expense was $214,413, $65,245,
and$269,953 for the years ended December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996,
respectively.
INCOME TAXES:
The Company recognizes 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:
The Company 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.
-18-
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
================================================================================
NOTE 1. NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES,
CONTINUED
RECLASSIFICATIONS:
Certain balances in prior year financial statements have been
reclassified for comparative purposes.
NOTE 2. GRANT RECEIVABLE
Grant receivable represents amounts due the Company from New York State
in relation to a 1998 New York State Senate grant appropriation for the
purposes of preserving employment and increasing marketing. Under the
grant agreement, the Company was required to incur qualifying
expenditures between July 1, 1998 and November 30, 1998 and submit a
reimbursement request to New York State by December 31, 1998, which it
did. All expenditures submitted for reimbursement have been approved by
New York State.
NOTE 3. RECEIVABLES
Receivables consist of the following at December 31, 1998 and 1997:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Shift adjustments $ 113,390 $ 84,280
Sale of other assets 122,500 -
Commissions 96,939 89,007
Other 63,025 20,729
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Total 395,854 194,016
Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts 22,000 7,000
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Receivables, net $ 373,854 $ 187,016
=======================================================================
NOTE 4. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Property, plant and equipment consists of the following:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 31,
1998 1997
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Land, racing plant, and equipment:
Land $ 77,802 $ 77,802
Land improvements 1,366,319 1,278,854
Buildings and improvements 5,740,855 5,682,906
Race plant structures 1,281,305 1,258,915
Equipment 4,250,006 4,246,667
Construction in progress 2,318 10,821
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
12,718,605 12,555,965
Other properties:
Land 121,671 121,672
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
12,840,276 12,677,637
Less accumulated depreciation 11,002,314 10,820,080
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 1,837,962 $ 1,857,557
=======================================================================
-19-
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
================================================================================
NOTE 5. REAL ESTATE TAXES PAYABLE
In May 1998, Oneida County and the Company entered into an agreement
whereby the Company 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
the Company by Oneida County in 1997.
Future payments required under this agreement are as follows:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 $ 72,000
2000 72,000
2001 30,000
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Total real estate taxes payable 174,000
Less: current portion 72,000
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Real estate taxes payable, net of current portion $ 102,000
=======================================================================
NOTE 6. MORTGAGE PAYABLE
On May 15, 1998, the Company obtained a $1,000,000 loan from a private
lender who also provides concession services to the Company. The loan
is collateralized by a first mortgage on the Company'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 the first year's interest of $120,000 to be
paid to the lender at closing. In addition, the agreement required the
Company to pay the lender $47,500 in financing fees, also at closing.
At December 31, 1998, the prepaid portion of interest and financing
fees are included in other current assets and other assets (long-term),
respectively.
Interest paid at closing is being amortized over 12 months. On June 15,
1999, and each month thereafter 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 in 1998. Interest expense incurred by the
Company in 1998 related to this loan totaled $79,236.
-20-
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
================================================================================
NOTE 7. INCOME TAXES
Net deferred tax assets in the accompanying balance sheets have been
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:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[--- DECEMBER 31, 1998 ---] [--- DECEMBER 31, 1997 ---]
TEMPORARY TEMPORARY
DIFFERENCE TAX EFFECT DIFFERENCE TAX EFFECT
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deferred compensation $1,013,000 $ 376,800 $1,013,000 $ 376,800
Net operating loss carryforwards 2,800,000 952,000 2,900,000 986,000
Other (4,000) (1,600) (22,000) (8,800)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3,809,000 1,327,200 3,891,000 1,354,000
Less valuation allowance - (1,327,000) - (1,354,000)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$3,809,000 $ - $3,891,000 $ -
==================================================================================================
During 1997, the Company determined that an increase in the valuation
allowance was appropriate because of uncertainty associated with the
payment of its unfunded deferred compensation plan obligations and the
uncertainty concerning the Company'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, 2012.
A reconciliation of the provision (credit) for income taxes to the
statutory amount is as follows:
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FOR THE YEAR ENDED FOR THE YEAR ENDED FOR THE YEAR ENDED
DECEMBER 31, 1998 DECEMBER 31, 1997 DECEMBER 31, 1996
------------------ ------------------ ------------------
AMOUNT % AMOUNT % AMOUNT %
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Statutory federal income tax $ 38,500 34.0 $(188,000) (34.0) $(428,000) (34.0)
Variances from statutory rate:
Add state income tax, net of federal
tax benefit 404 0.4 2,326 0.4 3,524 0.3
(Decrease) increase in valuation
allowance (26,800) (23.6) 502,100 91.0 489,900 38.0
Prior year's tax - - - - 24,000 1.9
Other (11,700) (10.4) 13,332 2.4 14,100 1.8
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Effective tax (credit) $ 404 0.4 $ 329,758 59.8 $ 103,524 8.0
=========================================================================================================
-21-
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
================================================================================
NOTE 8. LEASES
The Company 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, 1998, 1997 and 1996
amounted to $654,910, $495,481, and $654,780 of which $399,263,
$331,716, and $415,178 was paid on the totalisator contract for the
respective years.
The current totalisator lease agreement expires on May 31, 2000. Under
the agreement, rents charges 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 9. 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. The
Company elected to increase such commissions effective September 14,
1983.
NOTE 10. INVESTMENT (LOSS) INCOME
Investment (loss) income consisted of the following for the years ended
December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Interest and dividends $ 3,528 $ 787 $ 12,867
Equity in earnings (loss) of
50%-owned company (24,131) (22,257) (6,500)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
$ (20,603) $ (21,470) $ 6,367
=======================================================================
-22-
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
================================================================================
NOTE 11. AID FROM STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS
Aid from state and local governments consisted of the following for the
year ended December 31, 1998:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
New York State Senate Grant (see Note 2) $ 122,750
Oneida County Economic Development Growth Enterprises
Corporation (EDGE) second mortgage loan received in May
1998 and subsequently forgiven by EDGE on December 30,
1998 due to the successful completion of the Company's
1998 live racing season 250,000
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 372,750
=======================================================================
NOTE 12. HOTEL LEASE
During fiscal year 1994, the Company, as lessor, entered into a lease
agreement with a partnership that includes the Company's former
majority shareholder. The Company has leased, for an initial period of
twenty years, a certain portion of their property for the purpose of
permitting the partnership to construct, own, and operate a hotel.
Anytime during the lease or any renewal period of the lease, the
Company may elect to assume all of the lessee's duties, obligations,
rights and responsibilities under the lease. Lease payments during the
initial twenty year period are $10,000 per year. Construction of the
hotel by the partnership was completed in October 1994. The Company
also operates pari-mutual wagering on the hotel premises. Net
pari-mutuel commissions and breakage from wagering on these premises
approximated $1,060,000 for the year ended December 31, 1998 ($840,000
for the year ended December 31, 1997 and $1,203,000 for the year ended
December 31, 1996).
NOTE 13. CONTINGENCIES
NEW YORK STATE RACING AND WAGERING BOARD COMPLIANCE AUDIT
During early 1998, the New York State Racing and Wagering Board (the
Board) reviewed the Company's compliance with the Board's policies and
procedures. Based upon the Board's findings, the Company was fined
$416,000, on March 9, 1998, for instances of non-compliance and was
also directed to reimburse the Company's capital improvement account
for any unqualified capital expenditures. The Board indicated its
willingness to abate the fine if the Company demonstrated compliance
during the subsequent (1998) racing season.
On November 13, 1998, the Board retroactively approved all of the
Company's capital expenditures made from 1994 to 1997. As a result, the
Company was not required to reimburse its capital improvement account
because all capital expenditures made during the aforementioned period
were deemed qualified.
-23-
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
================================================================================
NOTE 13. CONTINGENCIES, CONTINUED
NEW YORK STATE RACING AND WAGERING BOARD COMPLIANCE AUDIT, CONTINUED
On December 17, 1998, based on the receipt of a satisfactory report,
from a Board approved compliance monitor, on the status of the
Company's compliance with the Board's policies and procedures
subsequent to the imposition of the fine, the Board discharged the
aforementioned $416,000 fine.
The Board has also assessed fines against former officers of the
Company totaling $93,000. The financial effect to the Company, if any,
relating to this assessment has not been determined.
FORMER MAJORITY SHAREHOLDER
In March 1998, the Company 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 the Company to recover these
payments, based on the theory of fraudulent conveyance. The outcome of
this lawsuit is not determinable at December 31, 1998.
OTHER
In 1998, the Company was threatened with a lawsuit claiming severance
payments under an employment agreement with a former officer who was
terminated in March 1998. No further action has been taken by the
former officer in regard to this matter.
In March 1998, the Company voted to terminate its unfunded deferred
compensation plan (Note 1) and believes that it will not incur any
additional expense or make any additional payments against this
liability. Subsequent to this termination, a lawsuit was brought
against the Company by beneficiaries of the deferred compensation plan
challenging the plan's termination and seeking damages of $1,200,000.
The outcome of this lawsuit is not determinable at December 31, 1998.
The Company continues to carry a long-term liability on its balance
sheet at December 31, 1998 in the amount of $1,013,861 for deferred
compensation benefits under the plan.
OTHER LITIGATION
The Company is the defendant in four separate actions in connection
with injury claims. No estimate can yet be made of the potential
liability or damages, or the likely outcome of the litigation.
NOTE 14. OTHER RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
In March 1998, the Company sold idle land with nominal book value, to
an affiliate of a member of the Company'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.
-24-
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
================================================================================
NOTE 15. FINANCIAL CONDITION
The Company has sustained significant operating losses for the years
ended December 31, 1998, 1997 and 1996, resulting in a deterioration of
working capital (in 1996 and 1997) and shareholders' equity.
As a result of these losses, the Company has initiated plans to deal
with its deteriorating financial condition. These include the
following:
o Applications to local governmental agencies for grants (some of
which are approved);
o Application to a private lender for short-term line of credit
financing;
o Increasing the number of events using the facility;
o Elimination of various expenditures; and
o Raising capital through a private offering of Company stock.
There can be no assurances that these plans will be successfully
implemented, and the ability of the Company to support operations for
the next 12 months is not presently determinable. Further, the ability
of the Company to continue as a going concern will be dependent on the
successful resolution of the various contingencies disclosed in Note
13.
-25-
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE.
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 March 1, 1999 are as
follows:
Common Shares
Beneficially
Became Owned as of
Name and Age Director December 31, 1998 Percent
------------ -------- ----------------- -------
James J. Moran 1986 100 ****
* David Slyman, Sr 1997 0 0
* Jeremiah Law 1997 1,010 ****
* Justice M. Cheney 1997 500 ****
* Neil Wager** 1997 1,750 1%
* Edward Leffler 1997 0 0
Thomas M. Hunter 1997 0 0
Abe Acee, Jr 1997 0 0
James R. Wise 0 0
Paul V. Noyes 1998 0 0
Gwen Bennett*** 1998 8,949 4%
Patrick Bombardo 1998 0 0
All officers and directors as a group 12,309 5%
(including individuals named above)
- ----------
* Member of Executive Committee
** In addition, Mr. Wager is managing member of NW Investors II, LLC which
claims ownership of 126,657 shares in the name of Standardbred Enterprises,
Ltd. by virtue of those shares being pledged to it as security for a loan
and such loan being in default.
*** Ms. Bennett is the majority shareholder of Standardbred Enterprises, Ltd.
which owns 126,657 shares of the Company. Neil Wager and the Trustee of the
Bennett funding Group, Inc. Bankruptcy claim ownership of the shares.
**** Less than one percent
-26-
JUSTICE M. CHENEY (age 65) has been President and Chief Executive Officer of the
Company since December, 1997, and has served as a Director since December, 1997.
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.
EDWARD LEFFLER (age 55) has been Vice President of the Company since December,
1997 and has served as a Director since December, 1997. He is the Chief
Executive Officer of James Square Health and Rehabilitation Center, Syracuse,
New York and the Chief Executive Officer of E.L. Management of Syracuse Corp. He
has more than 25 years experience in health care services, including planning,
design, construction and operation of health care facilities. Mr. Leffler is
President of the Board of Visitors of the Syracuse University School of Social
Work.
JAMES J. MORAN (age 58) has been Secretary of the Company since 1994 and
Assistant Secretary since 1985 and has served as a Director since 1986. He has
been Director of Publicity/Public Relations since 1975 and Track Announcer since
1964. He is past President and Chairman of the Board of North American Harness
Publicists Association and Secretary/Treasurer of Vernon Chapter of the U.S.
Harness Writers Association.
THOMAS HUNTER (age 51) has served as a Director since December, 1997. Mr. Hunter
has been a licensed standardbred trainer from 1980 to the present and is
licensed as such by the New York State Racing and Wagering Board. Mr. Hunter is
currently employed by H&B 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.
ABE ACEE, JR. (age 52) 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.
NEIL WAGER has served as a Director since December, 1997 and is a Managing
Member of NW Investors II, LLC.
-27-
JAMES R. WISE (age 51) has been Treasurer of the Company since November, 1997.
Mr. Wise is a certified public accountant licensed in New York State. He is a
member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and New
York State 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.
JEREMIAH LAW (age 47) has served as a Director since December, 1997.
DAVID SLYMAN, SR. (age 60) has served as a Director since December, 1997.
PAUL V. NOYES (age 67) is a prominent area lawyer with an office in Sherrill,
New York. Mr. Noyes, a former shareholder of Mid-State Raceway, Inc.
(1968-1993), 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 a Treasurer for the Madison County
Democrat Committee.
GWEN BENNETT (age 40) is President of the Comfort Suites Hotel at Vernon Downs.
Ms. Bennett has previously worked in managerial or service positions with Pizza
Hut, Squat and Gobble Restaurant, Carinci's Restaurant and Days Inn. Ms. Bennett
has been licensed with the United States Trotting Association and the New York
State Racing and Wagering Board for approximately 10 years and is a member of
the Town of Vernon Merchants Association as well as being active with Choice
Hotels International.
PATRICK BOMBARDO (age 55) is General Manager of the Comfort Suites Hotel at
Vernon Downs. He is an experienced professional with more than 20 years of
business experience, specializing in accounting, operations, management,
training and finance. Mr. Bombardo served as Chief Financial Officer -
Controller at J-K Independent Lumber Corp. in New Hartford from 1986 to
February, 1998. Mr. Bombardo possesses leadership experience in retailing,
manufacturing and service organizations.
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 James J. Moran,
Vice President and 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.
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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
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.
11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.
The following table sets forth information concerning compensation paid by the
Company to those persons who were, at December 31, 1998 (i) the chief executive
officer and (ii) the other executive officers whose annual salary and bonus
exceeded $100,000 during the last three fiscal years.
Summary Compensation Table
Name and Principal Position Year Salary
--------------------------- ---- ------
Justice Cheney, President & CEO 1998 $46,316
No executive officer received an annual salary and bonus in excess of $100,000
over the last three fiscal years. Justice Cheney is currently receiving an
annual salary of $60,000.
12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficiary Owners and Management.
At the close of business on December 31, 1998, the Company had outstanding
250,386 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 51%
3837 Peterboro Road
Oneida, NY 13421
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS.
In 1994, the Company entered into a lease agreement with a partnership that
includes the Company's former majority shareholder, Patrick R. Bennett. Pursuant
to the lease agreement, the Company leases a portion of its real property for
the purpose of permitting the lessee to operate a hotel adjacent to the
Company's facilities. The term of the lease is for 20 years, with renewal
options for an additional 20 years. Anytime during the lease, or any renewal
period of the lease, the Company may elect to assume all of the lessee's duties,
obligations, rights and responsibilities under the lease with respect to the
hotel. Lease payments during the initial 20-year period are $10,000 per year.
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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 12, 13, and 14 of the 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 on
Financial Statements 12
Balance Sheets, December 31, 1998 and 1997 13
Statements of Operations, Years Ended December
31, 1998, 1997 and 1996
Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity,
Years Ended December 31, 1998, December 31,
1997 and December 31, 1996 14
Statements of Cash Flows, Years Ended December
31, 1998, 1997 and 1996 16
Notes to Financial Statements 17-25
2. Financial Statement Schedules
Schedules have been omitted because they are not required, not
applicable, or the required information is shown in the financial
statements or notes thereto.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K
None were filed for the quarter ended December 31, 1998.
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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 20th day of April, 1999.
MID-STATE RACEWAY, INC.
By: /s/ Justice M. Cheney
---------------------
Justice M. Cheney,
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/ Justice M. Cheney President, Chief Executive 4/20/99
- ------------------------- Officer and Director
Justice M. Cheney
/s/ James J. Moran Secretary and Director 4/20/99
- -------------------------
James J. Moran
/s/ Edward Leffler Vice President and Director 4/20/99
- -------------------------
Edward Leffler
/s/ James R. Wise Treasurer (Principal 4/20/99
- ------------------------- Financial and Accounting
James R. Wise Officer)
/s/ Thomas M. Hunter Director 4/20/99
- -------------------------
Thomas M. Hunter
/s/ Abe Acee, Jr. Director 4/20/99
- -------------------------
Abe Acee, Jr.
/s/ Jeremiah C. Law Director 4/20/99
- -------------------------
Jeremiah C. Law
Director 4/20/99
- -------------------------
David Slyman, Sr.
Director 4/20/99
- -------------------------
Paul V. Noyes
/s/ Gwen Bennett Director 4/20/99
- -------------------------
Gwen Bennett
/s/ Patrick Bombardo Director 4/20/99
- -------------------------
Patrick Bombardo
Director 4/20/99
- -------------------------
Neil Wager
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