Back to GetFilings.com



Table of Contents



UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

     
þ   Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the period ended September 30, 2004

or

     
o   Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the transition period from                     to                     

             Commission File Number 333-43157

Northland Cable Television, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
     
State of Washington   91-1311836

 
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation)   (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

AND SUBSIDIARY GUARANTOR:

Northland Cable News, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
     
State of Washington   91-1638891

 
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation)   (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
     
101 Stewart Street, Suite 700 Seattle, Washington

  98101

(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (206) 621-1351

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 (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Yes þ       No o

Indicate by checkmark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.)

Yes o       No þ



 


TABLE OF CONTENTS

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
PART II — OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1 Legal proceedings
ITEM 2 Changes in securities
ITEM 3 Defaults upon senior securities
ITEM 4 Submission of matters to a vote of security holders
ITEM 5 Other information
ITEM 6 Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K
SIGNATURES
EXHIBIT 31.(A)
EXHIBIT 31.(B)
EXHIBIT 32.(A)
EXHIBIT 32.(B)


Table of Contents

PART 1 — FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. Financial Statements

NORTHLAND CABLE TELEVISION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
(A wholly owned subsidiary of Northland Telecommunications Corporation)

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS — (UNAUDITED)

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2004
  2003
ASSETS
               
Current Assets:
               
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 3,814,320     $ 2,134,254  
Due from Parent and affiliates
    759,552       653,029  
Accounts receivable
    1,403,757       1,663,699  
System sale receivable — current
          4,279,968  
Prepaid expenses
    793,490       464,934  
 
   
 
     
 
 
Total current assets
    6,771,119       9,195,884  
Investment in Cable Television Properties:
               
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $65,494,364 and $60,525,405, respectively
    41,478,370       42,223,109  
Franchise agreements, net of accumulated amortization of $38,923,291
    39,504,438       39,493,670  
Goodwill, net of accumulated amortization of $2,407,104
    3,937,329       3,937,329  
Other intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $3,225,211 and $3,205,791, respectively
    51,776       71,197  
 
   
 
     
 
 
Total investment in cable television properties
    84,971,913       85,725,305  
System sale receivable
    433,200        
Loan fees, net of accumulated amortization of $2,658,804 and $2,307,604, respectively
    1,415,620       1,727,629  
 
   
 
     
 
 
Total assets
  $ 93,591,852     $ 96,648,818  
 
   
 
     
 
 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDER’S DEFICIT
               
Current Liabilities:
               
Accounts payable
  $ 99,164     $ 700,984  
Subscriber prepayments
    1,319,670       1,401,200  
Accrued expenses
    7,516,842       5,034,606  
Converter deposits
    90,608       107,101  
Due to affiliates
    50,357       96,847  
Current portion of notes payable
    3,250,000       2,800,000  
 
   
 
     
 
 
Total current liabilities
    12,326,641       10,140,738  
Notes payable, net of current portion
    110,510,000       113,200,000  
Deferred tax liabilities
    842,194       152,194  
 
   
 
     
 
 
Total liabilities
    123,678,835       123,492,932  
 
   
 
     
 
 
Shareholder’s Deficit:
               
Common stock (par value $1.00 per share, authorized 50,000 shares; 10,000 shares issued and outstanding) and additional paid-in capital
    12,359,377       12,359,377  
Accumulated deficit
    (42,446,360 )     (39,203,491 )
 
   
 
     
 
 
Total shareholder’s deficit
    (30,086,983 )     (26,844,114 )
 
   
 
     
 
 
Total liabilities and shareholder’s deficit
  $ 93,591,852     $ 96,648,818  
 
   
 
     
 
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

 


Table of Contents

NORTHLAND CABLE TELEVISION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
(A wholly owned subsidiary of Northland Telecommunications Corporation)

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS — (UNAUDITED)

                 
    For the nine months ended September 30,
    2004
  2003
Service revenues
  $ 37,906,067     $ 37,242,399  
Expenses:
               
Cable system operations (including $27,569, net received from affiliates and $98,560, net paid to affiliates in 2004 and 2003, respectively), exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown below
    15,614,741       14,972,647  
General and administrative (including $1,872,997 and $1,325,224, net paid to affiliates in 2004 and 2003, respectively)
    6,970,670       6,251,797  
Management fees paid to Parent
    1,895,303       1,862,452  
Depreciation and amortization
    7,009,574       6,643,558  
Loss on disposal of assets
    302,354       50,079  
 
   
 
     
 
 
Total operating expenses
    31,792,642       29,780,533  
 
   
 
     
 
 
Income from operations
    6,113,425       7,461,866  
Other income (expense):
               
Interest expense and amortization of loan fees
    (8,699,563 )     (8,396,406 )
Other, net
    39,072       23,528  
 
   
 
     
 
 
 
    (8,660,491 )     (8,372,878 )
 
   
 
     
 
 
Loss from continuing operations before income tax expense
    (2,547,066 )     (911,012 )
 
   
 
     
 
 
Income tax expense
    (695,803 )     (183,165 )
Loss from continuing operations
    (3,242,869 )     (1,094,177 )
Discontinued operations (Note 4)
               
Income from operations of Aiken and Port Angeles Systems, net of tax of $500,000 in 2003 (including gain on sale of systems of $31,525,585 in 2003)
          31,042,363  
 
   
 
     
 
 
Net (loss) income
    (3,242,869 )     29,948,186  
 
   
 
     
 
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

 


Table of Contents

NORTHLAND CABLE TELEVISION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
(A wholly owned subsidiary of Northland Telecommunications Corporation)

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS — (UNAUDITED)

                 
    For the three months ended September 30,
    2004
  2003
Service revenues
  $ 12,714,480     $ 12,376,798  
Expenses:
               
Cable system operations (including $9,731 and $46,505, net paid to affiliates in 2004 and 2003, respectively), exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown below
    5,276,996       4,944,085  
General and administrative (including $664,038 and $599,698, net paid to affiliates in 2004 and 2003, respectively)
    2,429,211       2,305,160  
Management fees paid to Parent
    635,724       618,840  
Depreciation and amortization
    2,371,923       2,245,419  
(Gain) loss on disposal of assets
    (49,379 )     27,452  
 
   
 
     
 
 
Total operating expenses
    10,664,475       10,140,956  
 
   
 
     
 
 
Income from operations
    2,050,005       2,235,842  
Other income (expense):
               
Interest expense and amortization of loan fees
    (2,927,824 )     (2,860,527 )
Other, net
    7,756       8,406  
 
   
 
     
 
 
 
    (2,920,068 )     (2,852,121 )
 
   
 
     
 
 
Loss before income tax expense
    (870,063 )     (616,279 )
Income tax expense
    (163,481 )     (25,391 )
 
   
 
     
 
 
Net loss
    (1,033,544 )     (641,670 )
 
   
 
     
 
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

 


Table of Contents

NORTHLAND CABLE TELEVISION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
(A wholly owned subsidiary of Northland Telecommunications Corporation)

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS — (UNAUDITED)

                 
    For the nine months ended September 30,
    2004
  2003
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
               
Net (loss) income
  $ (3,242,869 )   $ 29,948,186  
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to cash provided by operating activities:
               
Depreciation and amortization
    7,009,574       7,061,356  
Unrealized gain on interest rate swap agreements
          (120,377 )
Amortization of loan fees
    417,708       393,273  
Loss (gain) on disposal of assets
    302,354       (31,475,506 )
Deferred income taxes
    690,000       173,355  
Other
    89,886        
(Increase) decrease in operating assets:
               
Accounts receivable
    259,942       326,869  
Prepaid expenses
    (328,658 )     (267,792 )
Due from Parent and affiliates
    (106,523 )     61,822  
Increase (decrease) in operating liabilities:
               
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
    1,882,496       917,971  
Due to affiliates
    (46,490 )     (156,529 )
Converter deposits
    (16,493 )     7,489  
Subscriber prepayments
    (79,547 )     (258,441 )
 
   
 
     
 
 
Net cash provided by operating activities
    6,831,380       6,611,676  
 
   
 
     
 
 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
               
Investment in cable television properties
    (6,776,825 )     (4,691,180 )
Proceeds from sale of cable system, net
    3,990,778       53,376,107  
Proceeds from disposal of assets
    6,900       14,342  
Franchises and other intangibles
    (10,768 )     (6,533 )
 
   
 
     
 
 
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities
    (2,789,915 )     48,692,736  
 
   
 
     
 
 
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
               
Principal payments on borrowings
    (2,240,000 )     (52,679,648 )
Loan fees
    (121,399 )      
 
   
 
     
 
 
Net cash used in financing activities
    (2,361,399 )     (52,679,648 )
 
   
 
     
 
 
INCREASE IN CASH
    1,680,066       2,624,764  
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period
    2,134,254       1,666,097  
 
   
 
     
 
 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of period
  $ 3,814,320     $ 4,290,861  
 
   
 
     
 
 
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
               
Cash paid during the period for interest
  $ 5,737,872     $ 6,458,094  
 
   
 
     
 
 
Cash paid during the period for state income taxes
  $ 5,803     $ 9,810  
 
   
 
     
 
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

 


Table of Contents

NORTHLAND CABLE TELEVISION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
(A wholly owned subsidiary of Northland Telecommunications Corporation)

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
September 30, 2004
(Unaudited)

(1) Basis of Presentation

Interim Financial Reporting

These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements are being filed in conformity with Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X regarding interim financial statement disclosures and do not contain all of the necessary footnote disclosures required for a fair presentation of the consolidated balance sheets, statements of operations and statements of cash flows in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. However, in the opinion of management, these statements include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring accruals, necessary to present fairly the Company’s consolidated financial position at September 30, 2004, its consolidated statements of operations for the nine and three months ended September 30, 2004 and 2003 and its consolidated statements of cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2004 and 2003. Results of operations for these periods are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for the full year. These financial statements and notes should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003.

On March 11, 2003 and March 31, 2003, the Company sold the operating assets and franchise rights of its cable systems in and around Port Angeles, Washington and Aiken, South Carolina, respectively, which served approximately 21,850 subscribers. This filing and the accompanying financial statements present the results of operations and the sale of the Port Angeles and Aiken systems as discontinued operations.

In September 2004, the Company sold its systems serving the areas of Buffalo and Jewett, Texas. These systems served approximately 415 basic subscribers and were sold for approximately $130,000. The net proceeds from this sale were used to repay amounts outstanding under the Company’s Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility. The pro forma effect of this transaction did not have a material impact on the Company’s financial statements.

Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation. This includes reclassification of unrealized gains and losses on interest rate swap agreements, which were previously classified as a separate financial statement caption within other income (expense), to the interest expense and amortization of loan fees financial statement caption.

(2) Intangible Assets

In accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” the Company does not amortize goodwill or any other intangible assets determined to have indefinite lives. The Company has determined that its franchises meet the definition of indefinite lived assets. The Company tests these assets for impairment on an annual basis during the fourth quarter, or on an interim basis if an event occurs or circumstances change that would reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying value.

Loan fees are being amortized using the straight-line method, which approximates the effective interest rate method. Future amortization of loan fees is expected to be as follows:

         
2004 (3 months)
    123,000  
2005
    492,000  
2006
    492,000  
2007
    309,000  
 
   
 
 
 
  $ 1,416,000  
 
   
 
 

Other intangibles are being amortized using the straight-line method. Future amortization of these other intangibles is expected to be as follows:

 


Table of Contents

         
2004 (3 months)
    7,000  
2005
    26,000  
2006
    19,000  
 
   
 
 
 
  $ 52,000  
 
   
 
 

(3) Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility

In November 2003, the Company amended and restated its existing senior credit facility (the “Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility”). The amendment and restatement resulted in the elimination of the lending syndicate and the assumption of the credit facility by one of the syndicate members. Accordingly, the Company wrote off remaining deferred loan fee costs during the fourth quarter of 2003, which resulted in a loss on extinguishment of debt of approximately $257,000. The Company also capitalized loan fee costs of approximately $292,000 during the fourth quarter of 2003, which were paid to the lender in connection with the transaction. The Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility establishes a term loan in the amount of $15,000,000 and a $2,000,000 revolving credit loan, under which the Company borrowed $1,000,000 upon amendment and restatement. The proceeds from the Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility were used to repay the Company’s existing senior credit facility, to provide working capital and for other general purposes. The Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility matures on December 31, 2006 and requires the Company to make quarterly principal payments beginning March 31, 2004. Remaining annual maturities of the Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility are as follows:

         
    Principal
    Payments
2004 (3 months)
  $ 700,000  
2005
    3,400,000  
2006
    9,660,000  
 
   
 
 
Total
  $ 13,760,000  
 
   
 
 

In September of 2004, the proceeds related to the sale of the Buffalo and Jewett, Texas systems, were used to repay amounts outstanding under the company’s credit facility. This prepayment effectively reduced the amounts due in 2006 to $9,660,000.

The interest rate per annum applicable to the Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility is a fluctuating rate of interest measured by reference to either: (i) the Index Rate, as defined, plus a borrowing margin of 2.50%; or (ii) the London interbank offered rate (LIBOR), plus a borrowing margin of 3.75%.

The Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility contains a number of covenants, which among other things, require the Company to comply with specified financial ratios, including maintenance, as tested on a quarterly basis, of: (A) a Maximum Total Leverage Ratio (the ratio of Total Debt to Annualized Operating Cash Flow (as defined)) of not more than 6.50 to 1.00; (B) a Maximum Senior Leverage Ratio (the ratio of Senior Debt to Annualized Operating Cash Flow (as defined)) of not more than 1.00 to 1.00 (C) an Interest Coverage Ratio (the ratio of Operating Cash Flow (as defined) to Total Cash Interest Expense) of not less than 1.50 to 1.00; and (D) a Minimum Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio (the ratio of Annualized Operating Cash Flow (as defined) to the Company’s Fixed Charges (as defined)) of not less than 1.00 to 1.00. As of September 30, 2004, the Company was out of compliance with its Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio covenant, however, appropriate waivers have been obtained from the Company’s lender. Management believes that it is probable that the Company will be in compliance with its loan covenants during the remainder of 2004.

As of the date of this filing, the Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility had an outstanding balance of $13,760,000, and applicable interest rates are as follows; $12,000,000 at a LIBOR based interest rate of 5.84%, $900,000 at a LIBOR based interest rate of 5.65%, and $860,000 at a LIBOR based interest rate of 5.65%. These interest rates expire during the fourth quarter of 2004, at which time new rates will be established. These rates also include a margin paid to the Company’s lender, as discussed above.

 


Table of Contents

On June 24, 2004, the Company executed a commitment letter received from a recognized financial institution to lead the syndication of a significant credit facility for the Company. On July 2, 2004, the Company reported on Form 8-K that it was anticipated that funds from the new credit facility, if secured by the Company, would be used to refinance existing senior bank debt, to redeem in their entirety all of the Company’s senior subordinated notes pursuant to the optional redemption provisions of those notes, and to provide excess borrowing capacity for possible future acquisition financing and funds for future capital expenditures and working capital. At that time it was also reported that the commitment was subject to various conditions outside of the Company’s control and that no assurances could be given that the credit facility would actually be secured.

Originally the Company contemplated that if syndication of the proposed credit facility was successful based on mutually agreeable terms between the Company and the syndication lenders, closing of the new credit facility could take place as early as the third quarter of 2004. At this time, however, the Company is in the process of reevaluating its overall credit needs, particularly with respect to the level of acquisition funding it was previously contemplating. It is management’s opinion that the Company can continue to operate, meets it obligations and execute its business plan under the current debt structure. Notwithstanding, the Company contemplates continuing to pursue a refinancing of current debt, subject to negotiation of suitable terms. It is now contemplated that if mutually agreeable terms can be reached, the credit facility closing may not occur until the second or third quarter of 2005, however the timing and terms of such a refinance are uncertain at this time.

It is important to note that final consummation of a revised credit facility remains subject to various conditions outside of the Company’s control, and that no assurances can be given at this time that these conditions will be satisfied or that the credit facility will actually be secured. Outstanding conditions include, but are not limited to, no material adverse changes in the operations of the Company, no material adverse changes in financial, banking or capital market conditions, satisfactory results of due diligence review by the lenders, and mutually satisfactory negotiation of definitive documentation of the credit facility, among others.

(4) System Sales

On March 11, 2003, the Company sold the operating assets and franchise rights of its cable system in and around the community of Port Angeles, Washington (the “Port Angeles System”). The Port Angeles System was sold at a price of approximately $11,375,000, of which the Company received approximately $10,800,000 at closing. Substantially all of the proceeds were used to pay down amounts outstanding under the Company’s Senior Credit Facility. The sales price was adjusted at closing for the proration of certain revenues and expenses and approximately $575,000 was to be held in escrow and released to the Company one year from the closing of the transaction, subject to general representations and warranties. In March of 2004, the Company received notice from the buyer of the Port Angeles System of certain claims, which were made under the hold back agreement provisions of the purchase and sale agreement. Management believes that such claims are unsubstantiated and intends to vigorously contest such claims. However, approximately $433,000 of the original escrow proceeds will remain in escrow until such claims are resolved. The Company has filed a lawsuit against the buyer of the Port Angeles System for recovery of the remaining escrow proceeds and unspecified damages. The escrow proceeds in excess of the claims were released to the Company in March of 2004.

On March 31, 2003, the Company sold the operating assets and franchise rights of its cable system in and around the community of Aiken, South Carolina (the “Aiken System”). The Aiken System was sold at a price of approximately $46.3 million of which the Company received approximately $42.6 million at closing. Substantially all of the proceeds were used to pay down amounts outstanding under the Company’s Senior Credit Facility. The sales price was adjusted at closing for the proration of certain revenues and expenses and approximately $3.7 million was held in escrow and released, in full, to the Company in March of 2004.

The revenue, expenses and other items attributable to the operations of the Aiken and Port Angeles systems during the first quarter of 2003, through the date the respective systems were sold, have been reported as discontinued operations in the accompanying statements of operations, and include the following:

 


Table of Contents

         
    For the nine months ended
    September 30, 2003
 
 

 
Service revenues
  $ 3,079,389  
Expenses (income):
       
Cable system operations (including $6,289, net paid to affiliates)
    1,254,073  
General and administrative (including $152,093 paid to affiliates)
    525,281  
Management fees paid to Parent
    153,637  
Depreciation and amortization
    417,798  
Gain on disposal of assets
    (31,525,585 )
 
   
 
 
Total operating expenses (income), net
    (29,174,796 )
 
   
 
 
Income from operations
    32,254,185  
Other expense:
       
Interest expense and amortization of loan fees
    (711,822 )
 
   
 
 
 
    (711,822 )
 
   
 
 
Income from operations before income tax expense
    31,542,363  
 
   
 
 
Income tax expense
    (500,000 )
 
   
 
 
Net income
  $ 31,042,363  
 
   
 
 

     In accordance with EITF 87-24, Allocation of Interest to Discontinued Operations, the Company allocated interest expense to discontinued operations using the historic weighted average interest rate applicable to the Revised Senior Credit Facility and approximately $51.8 million in principal payments, which were applied to the Revised Senior Credit Facility as a result of the sale of the Aiken and Port Angeles systems.

     In August 2004, the Company sold its systems serving the areas of Buffalo and Jewett, Texas. These systems served approximately 415 basic subscribers and were sold for approximately $130,000. The net proceeds from this sale were used to repay amounts outstanding under the Company’s Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility. The pro forma effect of this transaction did not have a material impact on the Company’s financial statements.

 


Table of Contents

PART I (continued)

     
ITEM  2.  
  MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Results of Continuing Operations — Nine Months Ended September 30, 2004 and 2003

Revenues from continuing operations totaled $37.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2004, an increase of $700,000 or approximately 2%, over the same period in 2003. Of the 2004 revenues, $25.8 million (68%) was derived from basic services, $2.3 (6%) from premium services, $4.9 million (13%) from expanded basic services, $600,000 (1%) from digital services, $1.4 million (4%) from high-speed Internet services, $1.4 million (4%) from advertising and $1.5 million (4%) from other sources.

Average monthly revenue from continuing operations per subscriber increased $3.25 or approximately 7%, from $47.46 for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 to $50.71 for the nine months ended September 30, 2004. This increase is primarily attributable to rate increases implemented during the first quarter of 2004 and increased revenue from the Company’s high speed Internet product offering, offset by decreased advertising revenue.

Cable system operation expenses attributable to continuing operations increased approximately $600,000, or 4%, from $15.0 million to $15.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2004. This increase is primarily attributable to higher costs charged by various program suppliers and increased costs associated with high-speed Internet services, offset by decreased advertising costs.

General and administrative expenses attributable to continuing operations increased approximately $700,000, or 11%, from $6.3 million to $7.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2004. This increase is primarily attributable to increases in corporate overhead allocations by the Company’s Parent. These corporate overhead allocations had been reduced in prior periods, to the extent that allocation of these costs would have resulted in non-compliance with the Company’s debt covenants. Corporate overhead expenses represent actual costs incurred by the Company’s parent for the period that are attributable to the operations of the Company. The Company has no obligation or liability to its Parent for past reductions in corporate overhead charges. The increase is also attributable to increased salary expense and increased temporary service costs at certain systems.

Management fees attributable to continuing operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2004 remained relatively constant with the same period in the previous year. Management fees are calculated at 5.0% of gross revenues.

Depreciation and amortization expenses attributable to continuing operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2004 increased approximately $400,000, or 6%, from $6.6 million to $7.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2004. The increase is attributable to depreciation of recent purchases related to the upgrade of plant and equipment, offset by certain assets becoming fully depreciated or amortized.

Interest expense and amortization of loan fees allocated to continuing operations increased approximately $300,000, or 4%, from $8.4 million to $8.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2004. This increase is primarily attributable to a $120,000 unrealized gain recognized on the Company’s interest rate swap agreements during the first nine months of 2003, which was not recognized during 2004. This amount is included in the interest expense and amortization of loan fees line item in the accompanying financial statements. In addition, the Company experienced higher effective interest rates during the first nine months of 2004, as compared to 2003 and the Company’s loan fee amortization increased by approximately $86,000 as a result of the costs incurred with the amendment and restatement of the Company’s senior credit facility in November of 2003.

In accordance with EITF 87-24, Allocation of Interest to Discontinued Operations, the Company allocated interest expense to discontinued operations using the historic weighted average interest rate applicable to the Revised Senior Credit Facility and approximately $51.8 million in principal payments, which were applied to the Revised Senior Credit Facility as a result of the sale of the Aiken and Port Angeles systems.

 


Table of Contents

The Company has elected not to designate its interest rate swap agreements as hedges under SFAS No. 133. Interest rate swap agreements in place as of December 31, 2002 expired during the first quarter of 2003, and the Company has elected not to enter into any new agreements.

EBITDA from continuing operations decreased approximately $800,000, or 6%, from $14.2 million to $13.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2004, and EBITDA margin decreased from 38.0% to 35.4% for the nine months ended September 30, 2004. The aforementioned increases in revenues were offset by increased cable system operations and general and administrative expenses resulting from rate increases by certain programming vendors, increased costs associated with the launch of the Company’s high speed Internet product and increased corporate overhead allocations from the Company’s Parent, discussed above.

EBITDA represents a non-GAAP measure and is one of the primary measures used by our management to evaluate performance and to forecast future results. EBITDA margin represents EBITDA as a percentage of revenue. We believe EBITDA is useful to assess performance in a manner similar to the method used by management, and provides a measure that can be used to analyze, value and compare the companies in the cable television industry, which may have different depreciation and amortization policies. A limitation of this measure is that it excludes depreciation and amortization, which represents the period costs of certain capitalized tangible and intangible assets, and gains and losses recognized on the disposal of assets. It is also not intended to be a performance measure that should be regarded as an alternative either to operating income (loss) or net income (loss) as an indicator of operating performance or to the statement of cash flows as a measure of liquidity and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Our definitions of EBITDA may not be identical to similarly titled measures reported by other companies. The following represents a reconciliation of EBITDA to operating income and EBITDA margin to service revenues, which represent the most directly comparable GAAP measures:

                 
    Nine Months Ended September 30,
    2004
  2003
EBITDA:
               
EBITDA
  $ 13,425,353     $ 14,155,503  
Depreciation and amortization expense
    (7,009,574 )     (6,643,558 )
Loss on disposal of assets
    (302,354 )     (50,079 )
 
   
 
     
 
 
Income from operations
    6,113,425       7,461,866  
Interest expense and amortization of loan fees
    (8,699,563 )     (8,396,406 )
Other, net
    39,072       23,528  
 
   
 
     
 
 
Loss from continuing operations before income tax expense
    (2,547,066 )     (911,012 )
Income tax expense
    (695,803 )     (183,165 )
 
   
 
     
 
 
Loss from continuing operations
  $ (3,242,869 )   $ (1,094,177 )
 
   
 
     
 
 
EBITDA MARGIN:
               
EBITDA
  $ 13,425,353     $ 14,155,503  
Service Revenues
  $ 37,906,067     $ 37,242,399  
 
   
 
     
 
 
EBITDA Margin
    35.4 %     38.0 %
 
   
 
     
 
 

 


Table of Contents

Results of Operations — Three Months Ended September 30, 2004 and 2003

Revenues totaled $12.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2004, an increase of $300,000, or approximately 2%, over the same period in 2003. Of the 2004 revenues, $8.5 million (67%) was derived from basic services, $700,000 (5%) from premium services, $1.6 million (13%) from expanded basic services, $200,000 (2%) from digital services, $700,000 (5%) from high-speed Internet services, $500,000 (4%) from advertising and $500,000 (4%) from other sources.

Average monthly revenue per subscriber increased $4.09 or 9% from $47.81 for the three months ended September 30, 2003 to $51.90 for the three months ended September 30, 2004. This increase is primarily attributable to rate increases implemented during the first quarter of 2004 and increased revenue from the Company’s high speed Internet product offering, offset by decreased advertising revenue.

Cable system operation expenses increased approximately $400,000, or 8% from $4.9 million to $5.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2004. This increase is primarily attributable to higher costs charged by various program suppliers and increased costs associated with high-speed Internet services, offset by decreased advertising costs.

General and administrative expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2004 increased approximately $100,000, or 4%, from $2.3 million to $2.4 million. Such increase is primarily attributable to increased administrative salary costs, increased marketing expenses, and increased property taxes at certain of the Company’s systems.

Management fees attributable for the three months ended September 30, 2004 remained relatively constant with the same period in the previous year. Management fees are calculated at 5.0% of gross revenues.

Depreciation and amortization expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2004 increased approximately $200,000, or 9%, from $2.2 million to $2.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2004. The increase is attributable to depreciation of recent purchases related to the upgrade of plant and equipment, offset by certain assets becoming fully depreciated or amortized.

Interest expense and amortization of loan fees for the three months ended September 30, 2004 increased only slightly compared to the same period in 2003. This increase is primarily attributable to higher interest rates applicable to the Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility during the third quarter of 2004 compared to the same period in 2003, offset by lower average outstanding indebtedness as a result of required principal repayments.

The Company has elected not to designate its interest rate swap agreements as hedges under SFAS No. 133. Interest rate swap agreements in place as of December 31, 2002 expired during the first quarter of 2003, and the Company has elected not to enter into any new agreements.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

The cable television business generally requires substantial capital for the construction, expansion and maintenance of the signal distribution system. In addition, the Company has pursued a business strategy which includes selective acquisitions. The Company has financed these expenditures through a combination of cash flow from operations, borrowings under its senior credit facility and the issuance of senior subordinated notes. The Company anticipates that cash flow from operations will be adequate to meet its long term liquidity requirements, prior to the maturity of its senior subordinated notes, although no assurances can be given in this regard.

Net cash provided by operating activities was $6.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2004. Adjustments to the $3.2 million net loss for the period to reconcile to net cash provided by operating activities consisted primarily of $7.0 million of depreciation and amortization expense, $700,000 of deferred tax expense, $400,000 of amortization of loan fees, and increases in operating liabilities of $1.7 million, offset by decreases in operating assets of approximately $200,000.

Net cash provided by investing activities was $2.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2004, and consisted primarily of $3.8 million of escrow proceeds that were released to the Company related to

 


Table of Contents

the sales of the Aiken and Port Angeles systems and proceeds from the sale of the Company’s Buffalo and Jewett Texas systems of $100,000, offset by $6.8 million in capital expenditures.

Net cash used in financing activities consisted of $2.2 million in scheduled principal prepayments on the Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility and loan fees of $100,000.

Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility

In November 2003, the Company amended and restated its existing senior credit facility (the “Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility”). The amendment and restatement resulted in the elimination of the lending syndicate and the assumption of the credit facility by one of the syndicate members. Accordingly, the Company wrote off remaining deferred loan fee costs during the fourth quarter of 2003, which resulted in a loss on extinguishment of debt of approximately $257,000. The Company also capitalized loan fee costs of approximately $292,000 during the fourth quarter of 2003, which were paid to the lender in connection with the transaction. The Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility establishes a term loan in the amount of $15,000,000 and a $2,000,000 revolving credit loan, under which the Company borrowed $1,000,000 upon amendment and restatement. The proceeds from the Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility were used to repay the Company’s existing senior credit facility, to provide working capital and for other general purposes. The Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility matures on December 31, 2006 and requires the Company to make quarterly principal payments beginning March 31, 2004. Remaining annual maturities of the Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility are as follows:

         
    Principal
    Payments
2004 (3 months)
  $ 700,000  
2005
    3,400,000  
2006
    9,660,000  
 
   
 
 
Total
  $ 13,760,000  
 
   
 
 

In September of 2004, the proceeds related to the sale of the Buffalo and Jewett, Texas systems, were used to repay amounts outstanding under the company’s credit facility. This prepayment effectively reduced the amounts due in 2006 to $9,6600,000.

The interest rate per annum applicable to the Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility is a fluctuating rate of interest measured by reference to either: (i) the Index Rate, as defined, plus a borrowing margin of 2.50%; or (ii) the London interbank offered rate (LIBOR), plus a borrowing margin of 3.75%.

The Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility contains a number of covenants, which among other things, require the Company to comply with specified financial ratios, including maintenance, as tested on a quarterly basis, of: (A) a Maximum Total Leverage Ratio (the ratio of Total Debt to Annualized Operating Cash Flow (as defined)) of not more than 6.50 to 1.00; (B) a Maximum Senior Leverage Ratio (the ratio of Senior Debt to Annualized Operating Cash Flow (as defined)) of not more than 1.00 to 1.00 (C) an Interest Coverage Ratio (the ratio of Operating Cash Flow (as defined) to Total Cash Interest Expense) of not less than 1.50 to 1.00; and (D) a Minimum Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio (the ratio of Annualized Operating Cash Flow (as defined) to the Company’s Fixed Charges (as defined)) of not less than 1.00 to 1.00. As of September 30, 2004, the Company was out of compliance with its Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio covenant, however, appropriate waivers have been obtained from the Company’s lender. Management believes that it is probable that the Company will be in compliance with its loan covenants during the remainder of 2004.

As of the date of this filing, the Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility had an outstanding balance of $13,760,000, and applicable interest rates are as follows; $12,000,000 at a LIBOR based interest rate of 5.84%, $900,000 at a LIBOR based interest rate of 5.65%, and $860,000 at a LIBOR based interest rate of 5.65%. These interest rates expire during the fourth quarter of 2004, at which time, new rates will be established. These rates also include a margin paid to the Company’s lender, as discussed above.

 


Table of Contents

On June 24, 2004, the Company executed a commitment letter received from a recognized financial institution to lead the syndication of a significant credit facility for the Company. On July 2, 2004, the Company reported on Form 8-K that it was anticipated that funds from the new credit facility, if secured by the Company, would be used to refinance existing senior bank debt, to redeem in their entirety all of the Company’s senior subordinated notes pursuant to the optional redemption provisions of those notes, and to provide excess borrowing capacity for possible future acquisition financing and funds for future capital expenditures and working capital. At that time it was also reported that the commitment was subject to various conditions outside of the Company’s control and that no assurances could be given that the credit facility would actually be secured.

Originally the Company contemplated that if syndication of the proposed credit facility was successful based on mutually agreeable terms between the Company and the syndication lenders, closing of the new credit facility could take place as early as the third quarter of 2004. At this time, however, the Company is in the process of reevaluating its overall credit needs, particularly with respect to the level of acquisition funding it was previously contemplating. It is management’s opinion that the Company can continue to operate, meets it obligations and execute its business plan under the current debt structure. Notwithstanding, the Company contemplates continuing to pursue a refinancing of current debt, subject to negotiation of suitable terms. It is now contemplated that if mutually agreeable terms can be reached, the credit facility closing may not occur until the second or third quarter of 2005, however the timing and terms of such a refinance are uncertain at this time.

It is important to note that final consummation of a revised credit facility remains subject to various conditions outside of the Company’s control, and that no assurances can be given at this time that these conditions will be satisfied or that the credit facility will actually be secured. Outstanding conditions include, but are not limited to, no material adverse changes in the operations of the Company, no material adverse changes in financial, banking or capital market conditions, satisfactory results of due diligence review by the lenders, and mutually satisfactory negotiation of definitive documentation of the credit facility, among others.

System Sales

On March 11, 2003, the Company sold the operating assets and franchise rights of its cable system in and around the community of Port Angeles, Washington (the “Port Angeles System”). The Port Angeles System was sold at a price of approximately $11,375,000 of which the Company received approximately $10,800,000 at closing. Substantially all of the proceeds were used to pay down amounts outstanding under the Company’s Senior Credit Facility. The sales price was adjusted at closing for the proration of certain revenues and expenses and approximately $575,000 was to be held in escrow and released to the Company one year from the closing of the transaction, subject to general representations and warranties. In March of 2004, the Company received notice from the buyer of the Port Angeles system of certain claims, which were made under the hold back agreement provisions of the purchase and sale agreement. Management believes that such claims are unsubstantiated and intends to vigorously contest such claims. However, approximately $433,000 of the original escrow proceeds will remain in escrow until such claims are resolved. The Company has filed a lawsuit against the buyer of the Port Angeles System for recovery of the remaining escrow proceeds and unspecified damages. The escrow proceeds in excess of the claims were released to the Company in March of 2004.

On March 31, 2003, the Company sold the operating assets and franchise rights of its cable system in and around the community of Aiken, South Carolina (the “Aiken System”). The Aiken System was sold at a price of approximately $46.3 million of which the Company received approximately $42.6 million at closing. Substantially all of the proceeds were used to pay down amounts outstanding under the Company’s Senior Credit Facility. The sales price was adjusted at closing for the proration of certain revenues and expenses and approximately $3.7 million was held in escrow and released, in full, to the Company in March of 2004.

The sales were made pursuant to offers by separate, independent third parties. Based on the offers made, management determined that acceptance of the offers would be in the best economic interest of the Company. The sales were not a result of declining or deteriorating operations nor was it necessary to create liquidity or reduce outstanding debt.

 


Table of Contents

The revenue, expenses and other items attributable to the operations of the Aiken and Port Angeles systems during the first quarter of 2003, through the date the respective systems were sold, have been reported as discontinued operations in the accompanying statements of operations, and include the following:

         
    For the nine months ended
    September 30, 2003
Service revenues
  $ 3,079,389  
Expenses (income):
       
Cable system operations (including $6,289, net paid to affiliates)
    1,254,073  
General and administrative (including $152,093 paid to affiliates)
    525,281  
Management fees paid to Parent
    153,637  
Depreciation and amortization
    417,798  
Gain on disposal of assets
    (31,525,585 )
 
   
 
 
Total operating expenses (income), net
    (29,174,796 )
 
   
 
 
Income from operations
    32,254,185  
Other expense:
       
Interest expense and amortization of loan fees
    (711,822 )
 
   
 
 
 
    (711,822 )
 
   
 
 
Income from operations before income tax expense
    31,542,363  
 
   
 
 
Income tax expense
    (500,000 )
 
   
 
 
Net income
  $ 31,042,363  
 
   
 
 

In accordance with EITF 87-24, Allocation of Interest to Discontinued Operations, the Company allocated interest expense to discontinued operations using the historic weighted average interest rate applicable to the Revised Senior Credit Facility and approximately $51.8 million in principal payments, which were applied to the Revised Senior Credit Facility as a result of the sale of the Aiken and Port Angeles systems.

In August 2004, the Company sold its systems serving the areas of Buffalo and Jewett, Texas. These systems served approximately 415 basic subscribers and were sold for approximately $130,000. The net proceeds from this sale were used to repay amounts outstanding under the Company’s Amended and Restated Senior Credit Facility. The pro forma effect of this transaction did not have a material impact on the Company’s financial statements.

 


Table of Contents

Obligations and Commitments

In addition to working capital needs for ongoing operations, the Company has capital requirements for (i) annual maturities related to the Company’s credit facilities and (ii) required minimum operating lease payments. The following table summarizes the Company’s contractual obligations as of September 30, 2004 and the anticipated effect of these obligations on its liquidity in future years:

                                       
            Payments Due By Period
            Less than   1 — 3   3 — 5   More than
    Total
  1 year
  years
  years
  5 years
Term loan
  $ 113,760,000     $ 3,250,000     $ 110,510,000     $     $
Minimum operating lease payments
  222,327     20,009     156,807     45,511    
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
Total
  $ 113,982,327     $ 3,270,009     $ 110,666,807     $ 45,511     $
   
 
     
 
     
 
     
 
     
 

  (a)   These contractual obligations do not include accounts payable and accrued liabilities, which are expected to be paid in 2004.
 
  (b)   The Company also rents utility poles in its operations. Amounts due under these agreements are not included in the above minimum operating lease payments as, generally, pole rentals are cancelable on short notice. The Company does, however, anticipate that such rentals will recur.

Capital Expenditures

For the nine months ended September 30, 2004, the Company incurred capital expenditures of approximately $6.8 million. Capital expenditures included: (i) expansion and improvements of cable properties including the launch of high-speed Internet services; (ii) additions to plant and equipment; (iii) improvement of existing equipment; (iv) cable line drops, extensions and installations of cable plant facilities; and (v) vehicle replacements.

The Company plans to invest approximately $1.7 million in capital expenditures for the remainder of 2004. This represents anticipated expenditures for upgrading and rebuilding certain distribution facilities, and continued deployment of high-speed Internet services. It is expected that cash flow from operations will be sufficient to fund planned capital expenditures.

Critical Accounting Policies

This discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based on the Company’s financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amount of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The following critical accounting policies, which have been chosen among alternatives, require a more significant amount of management judgment than other accounting policies the Company employs.

Revenue Recognition - Cable television service revenue, including service and maintenance, is recognized in the month service is provided to customers. Advance payments on cable services to be rendered are recorded as subscriber prepayments. Revenues resulting from the sale of local spot advertising are recognized when the related advertisements or commercials appear before the public.

Property and Equipment - Property and equipment are recorded at cost. Costs of additions and substantial improvements, which include materials, labor, and other indirect costs associated with the construction of cable transmission and distribution facilities, are capitalized. Indirect costs include employee salaries and benefits, travel and other costs. These costs are estimated based on historical information and analysis. The Company periodically performs evaluations of these estimates as warranted by events or changes in circumstances.

 


Table of Contents

In accordance with SFAS No. 51, “Financial Reporting by Cable Television Companies,” the Company also capitalizes costs associated with initial customer installations. The costs of disconnecting service or reconnecting service to previously installed locations is expensed in the period incurred. Costs for repairs and maintenance are also charged to operating expense, while equipment replacements, including the replacement of drops, are capitalized.

Intangible Assets - In accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” the Company does not amortize goodwill or any other intangible assets determined to have indefinite lives. The Company has determined that its franchises meet the definition of indefinite lived assets. The Company tests these assets for impairment on an annual basis during the fourth quarter, or on an interim basis if an event occurs or circumstances change that would reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying value.

Management believes the franchises have indefinite lives because the franchises are expected to be used by the Company for the foreseeable future and effects of obsolescence, competition and other factors are minimal. In addition, the level of maintenance expenditures required to obtain the future cash flows expected from the franchises are not material in relation to the carrying value of the franchises. While the franchises have defined lives based on the franchising authority, renewals are routinely granted, and management expects them to continue to be granted. This expectation is supported by management’s experience with the Company’s franchising authorities and the franchising authorities of the Company’s affiliates.

 


Table of Contents

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

The Company is subject to market risks arising from changes in interest rates. The Company’s primary interest rate exposure results from changes in LIBOR or the prime rate, which are used to determine the interest rate applicable to the Company’s Revised Senior Credit Facility. The potential loss over one year that would result from a hypothetical, instantaneous and unfavorable change of 100 basis points in the interest rate of all the Company’s variable rate obligations would be approximately $138,000.

The Company does not use financial instruments for trading or other speculative purposes.

Cautionary statement for purposes of the “Safe Harbor” provisions of the Private Litigation Reform Act of 1995: Statements contained or incorporated by reference in this document that are not based on historical fact are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be identified by use of forward-looking terminology such as “believe”, “intends”, “may”, “will”, “expect”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “continue”, or similar terms, variations of those terms or the negative of those terms.

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

The Company maintains disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our filings under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. The Chief Executive Officer and President (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) have evaluated these disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report on Form 10-Q and have determined that such disclosure controls and procedures are effective.

There has been no change in the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 


Table of Contents

PART II — OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1 Legal proceedings

The Company has filed a lawsuit against the buyer of the Port Angeles System for recovery of the remaining escrow proceeds and unspecified damages.

The Company is a party to ordinary and routine litigation proceedings that are incidental to the Company’s business. Management believes that the outcome of all pending legal proceedings will not, individually or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on the Company, its financial condition, prospects and debt service ability.

ITEM 2 Changes in securities

     None

ITEM 3 Defaults upon senior securities

     None

ITEM 4 Submission of matters to a vote of security holders

     None

ITEM 5 Other information

     None

ITEM 6 Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

         
(a)   Exhibit Index
       
 
    31 (a).  
Certification of Chief Executive Officer dated November 12, 2004 pursuant to section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
       
 
    31 (b).  
Certification of President (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) dated November 12, 2004 pursuant to section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
       
 
    32 (a).  
Certification of Chief Executive Officer dated November 12, 2004 pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
       
 
    32 (b).  
Certification of President (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) dated November 12, 2004 pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
       
 
(b)   Reports on Form 8-K
       
 
    Form 8-K filed October 28, 2004 discussing re-evaluation of refinancing needs.

 


Table of Contents

SIGNATURES

     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.

NORTHLAND CABLE TELEVISION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

         
SIGNATURES
  CAPACITIES
  DATE
/s/ RICHARD I. CLARK
  Executive Vice President, Treasurer and   11-12-04

  Assistant Secretary    
Richard I. Clark
       
 
       
 
       
/s/ GARY S. JONES
  President   11-12-04

       
Gary S. Jones