ITEM 1. BUSINESS
OVERVIEW
We own and operate the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, a premier destination entertainment resort with a rock music theme. Commencing operations in 1995, the resort is modeled after the highly successful Hard Rock Cafe restaurant chain and is decorated with an extensive collection of rare rock memorabilia. The original Hard Rock Cafe was co-founded in 1971 by Peter Morton, our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and the “Hard Rock” name has grown to become widely recognized throughout the world. Since opening, the resort has developed a strong following among its target customer base of youthful individuals, generally between the ages of 25 and 45, who seek a vibrant, energetic entertainment and gaming experience with the services and amenities associated with a boutique luxury resort hotel. As evidence of its appeal to its target customer base, the resort was selected in 2001 and 2002 by the Travel Channel as having one of “The Top 10 Pools” in the world. The resort has also been recognized in 2003 by What’s On for having the “Favorite Hotel Pool,” “Favorite Hotel Overall,” “Favorite Hotel Staff,” “Favorite Retail Store,” and “Favorite Dance Club.” Additionally, the Las Vegas Review Journal recognized Simon Kitchen and Bar as the “Best New Hotel Restaurant” in 2003.
The resort commenced operations March 9, 1995. An approximately $100 million expansion of the resort was completed during May 1999, which significantly enhanced and enlarged the resort. As of December 31, 2005, the resort consists of:
• an eleven-story hotel tower with 642 stylishly furnished hotel rooms averaging 500 square feet in size (including 63 suites and one 4,500 square foot “mega suite”);
• an approximately 30,000 square-foot uniquely styled circular casino with 556 slot machines and 83 table games, for Las Vegas locals, as well as tourists, where rock music is played continuously to provide the casino with an energetic and entertaining, club-like atmosphere;
• an approximately 3,600 square-foot retail store, a jewelry store and a lingerie store;
• an approximately 8,500 square-foot nightclub, called “Body English,” with a capacity of 1,100 persons;
• an approximately 6,000 square-foot banquet facility with a capacity of 390 persons;
• a premier live music concert hall, called “The Joint,” with a capacity of 2,050 persons which successfully draws audiences from Las Vegas visitors, as well as the local Las Vegas population;
• a beach club including a 300-foot long sand bottomed tropical theme outdoor swimming pool area, with a water slide, water fall, a running stream and underwater rock music (the “Beach Club;”)
• five high quality restaurants at multiple price points (Simon Kitchen and Bar, Nobu, AJ’s Steakhouse, Pink Taco and Mr. Lucky’s), and a Starbucks;
• three cocktail lounges, including an elevated Center Bar surrounded by the circular gaming floor; and
• an approximately 8,000 square-foot spa/salon/fitness center, called the “Rock Spa.”
AVAILABLE INFORMATION
Hard Rock, Inc. is a reporting company under the Securites Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”), as amended, and files annual reports, quarterly reports and other documents with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). The public may read and copy any of our filings at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street N.E. Washington D.C. 20549. The public may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. Because we make filings with the SEC electronically, access to the information is available at the SEC’s internet website www.sec.gov. This site contains reports and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC. We also make available free of charge upon request our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and, if applicable, amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to the Exchange Act as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with or furnish it to the SEC.
Our principal executive offices are located at 4455 Paradise Road, Las Vegas, Nevada 89109 and our telephone number is (702) 693-5000. Our Internet website is located at www.hardrockhotel.com.
BUSINESS STRATEGY
We believe our continued success in the Las Vegas marketplace is attributable to our unique positioning of the resort. Our business and marketing strategy for the resort is to create a vibrant and energetic entertainment and gaming environment that primarily appeals to a customer base of youthful individuals. We successfully use the Hard Rock theme, vibrant atmosphere and personalized service to differentiate the resort from the substantially larger “mega resorts” approximately one mile west on the Las Vegas Strip. Key elements of our strategy include the following:
UNIQUE TARGET CLIENTELE. We have successfully differentiated the resort in the Las Vegas market by targeting a predominantly youthful and “hip” customer base, which we believe consists primarily of rock music fans and youthful individuals, as well as actors, musicians and other members of the entertainment industry. To attract this target audience, we promote the resort as “the place to be” in Las Vegas. The “Hard Rock Hotel” trademark, the “Hard Rock Casino” trademark along with Mr. Morton’s extensive network of contacts in the music and entertainment industry have helped to attract a number of famous actors, musicians and celebrities to the resort. We believe that these customers form a combined demographic group that continues to be underserved by competing facilities despite recent competition from other properties in Las Vegas.
ENTERTAINMENT. As a live music venue with capacity for 2,050 persons, The Joint successfully draws audiences from Las Vegas visitors and from the local Las Vegas population. We believe that as a result of hosting concerts by famous musicians which in 2005 included, among others, legends such as Motley Crue, Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, Alice Cooper, Crosby, Stills and Nash and Tom Petty, more recent phenomena such as The Killers, Cold Play, Lenny Kravitz, Matchbox 20 and cutting edge groups such as Social Distortion and Black Eyed Peas, the Joint has become a premier venue in Las Vegas for live popular music. We also believe that the Joint has become a favorite venue for musicians and guests due to its relatively small capacity and intimate atmosphere. The resort has in the past year also hosted special events such as the Boost Mobile Skate Pro competition and the AVP Invitational, a pro volleyball tournament. We believe that The Joint’s concerts and the resort’s special events generate significant worldwide publicity and reinforce the resort’s marquee image and unique position in the Las Vegas marketplace and provide an added source of visitors for the hotel, casino, retail and food and beverage operations.
GAMING MIX TARGETED TO CUSTOMER BASE. The casino currently includes 556 slot machines, 83 table games and an approximately 1,200 square-foot race and sports book. Our target gaming customer has a higher propensity to play table games and we strive to create a fun and enthusiastic gaming environment through the use of music themed gaming chips and playing surfaces and by promoting interaction between table game dealers and customers. The casino also features the latest slot machines, some of which reflect the resort’s rock music theme, as well as more traditional machines.
SIGNIFICANT REVENUE FROM NON-GAMING OPERATIONS. We derive a majority of our revenues from non-gaming operations. Our hotel, beach club, retail, food and beverage, and other operations allow us to market the resort as a full-service
destination. Our diversified revenue base allows us to be less dependent on the casino as a source of revenues and profits, which we believe may result in less volatility in our earnings.
UNSURPASSED CUSTOMER SERVICE. One of the cornerstones of our business strategy is to provide our customers with an extraordinary level of personal service. Our management trains our employees to interact with guests and continually strives to instill in each employee a dedication to superior service designed to exceed guests’ expectations. Mr. Morton is a visible proponent of the resort’s emphasis on customer service and regularly speaks to employees and customers. In addition, Mr. Morton and other members of management personally respond to suggestions made on comment cards placed in each of the resort’s hotel rooms.
LOCATION
The resort occupies one of the most highly visible and easily accessible sites in Las Vegas. It is located on approximately 16.7 acres of land near the intersection of Paradise Road and Harmon Avenue, approximately two miles from McCarran International Airport and approximately one mile east of the Strip, the main tourist area in Las Vegas. The resort represents an attractive alternative for tourists, business travelers and locals who wish to avoid the crowds and congestion of the Strip, while maintaining close and easy access to the Strip. We have agreements with major hotels and casinos and retail establishments pursuant to which shuttle services are provided between such locations and the resort. The resort’s location is particularly attractive due to its proximity to:
• a high concentration of popular Las Vegas restaurants and nightclubs;
• the Las Vegas Convention Center;
• the Thomas & Mack Center at the University of Nevada Las Vegas, Las Vegas’ primary sporting and special events arena; and
• a number of non-gaming hotels, which have an aggregate of more than 1,000 guest rooms.
Our principal executive offices are located at 4455 Paradise Road, Las Vegas, Nevada 89109 and our telephone number is (702) 693-5000. Our Internet website is located at www.hardrockhotel.com.
THE RESORT
As of December 31, 2005, the resort consists of the hotel, casino, retail stores, Body English, banquet facility, The Joint, Beach Club, five restaurants, three cocktail lounges, Rock Spa, Brannon Hair and a Starbucks.
THE HOTEL. The hotel’s eleven-story tower houses 642 spacious hotel rooms, including 578 guest rooms and 63 suites and one 4,500 square foot “mega suite.” The guest rooms and deluxe suites average approximately 500 square feet in size, which is larger than the size of the average Las Vegas hotel room. Our “mega suite” is approximately 4,500 square feet in size and includes numerous amenities. Consistent with the resort’s distinctive decor, the hotel rooms are stylishly furnished with modern furniture, stainless steel bathroom sinks, pedestal beds with leather headboards and black-and-white photos of famous rock musicians. The rooms also include special amenities such as large 42-inch plasma screen televisions with high speed internet access, stereo systems and French doors that open to the outdoors. A full-service concierge and 24-hour room service are available to all guests of the hotel.
The following table illustrates certain historical information relating to the hotel for the last three years:
(1) Includes rooms provided on a complimentary basis
THE CASINO. The innovative, distinctive style of the 30,000 square-foot circular casino is a major attraction for both Las Vegas visitors and local residents. The casino is designed with an innovative circular layout around the elevated Center Bar, which allows the casino’s patrons to see and be seen from nearly every area of the casino as well as play Blackjack at 3 gaming tables in the bar. Rock music is played continuously to provide the casino with an energetic and entertaining, club-like atmosphere. In addition, the casino promotes a friendly, intimate atmosphere by encouraging its employees to smile at and interact with casino players. Dealers, for example, are encouraged to “High Five” winning players.
As of December 31, 2005, the casino houses 83 table games including 61 Blackjack, 6 Craps, 5 Roulette, 1 Caribbean Stud Poker, 1 Midi Baccarat, 1 Mini-Baccarat, 1 War, 3 Three Card Poker, 1 Big 6, 1 Let-it-Ride, 1 Chuck a Luck and 1 Pai-Gow Poker, 556 slot and video machines, an approximate 1,200 square-foot race and sports book as well as the 2,000 square-foot Center Bar. Some of the casino’s gaming chips are themed to coincide with current concerts and the casino also offers patrons other attractions, such as cutting edge slot technology, proprietary slot graphics, distinctive slot signage, guitar-neck-shaped levers on certain slot machines and piano-like roulette tables complete with keyboards.
RETAIL. The resort’s retail operations consist of the Retail Store, a 3,600 square-foot retail shop. Visitors may purchase shirts, hats, pins, golf bags, children’s clothing, stationary, leather jackets, collectible pin sets, sundry items and a variety of other merchandise displaying the popular “Hard Rock Hotel” and “HRH” logos from the Retail Store, through the web site and from a sundry store located in the resort. Our retail operations offer a convenient and inexpensive outlet to market and advertise the “Hard Rock Hotel” trademark and attract other Las Vegas visitors to the resort. Our in-house design team is responsible for maintaining the consistency of the Resort’s image while creating new merchandise to expand and diversify the retail selection.
BODY ENGLISH. During May 2004, the Company opened Body English which replaced Baby’s nightclub. Body English has approximately 8,500 square-foot facility, with an 1,100 person capacity, featuring two rooms on two levels, including a sunken dance floor, three bars and state-of-the-art lighting and sound equipment featuring popular and innovative DJs in from all around the country to provide the proper entertainment to attract our target clientele.
BANQUET FACILITY. Our 6,000 square-foot conference center and entertainment area has capacity for 390 persons. The state-of-the-art facility is located adjacent to the Beach Club area and can accommodate one large event/group and has the capability of being separated into three distinct 2,000 square-foot areas.
THE JOINT. As a live music venue with capacity for 2,050 persons, The Joint successfully draws audiences from Las Vegas visitors and from the local Las Vegas population. We believe that as a result of hosting concerts by famous musicians which in 2005 included, among others, legends such as Motley Crue, Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, Alice Cooper, Crosby, Stills and Nash and Tom Petty, more recent phenomena such as The Killers, Cold Play, Lenny Kravitz, Matchbox 20 and cutting edge groups such as Social Distortion and Black Eyed Peas, the Joint has become a premier venue in Las Vegas for live popular music. We also believe that the Joint has become a favorite venue for musicians and guests due to its relatively small capacity and intimate atmosphere. The resort has in the past year also hosted special events such as the Boost Mobile Skate Pro competition and the AVP Invitational, a pro volleyball tournament. We believe that The Joint’s concerts and the resort’s special events generate significant worldwide publicity and reinforce the resort’s marquee image and unique position in the Las Vegas marketplace and provide an added source of visitors for the hotel, casino, retail and food and beverage operations.
THE BEACH CLUB. The Beach Club features a 300-foot long, sand bottomed pool with a water slide, a water fall, a running stream and underwater rock music. The Beach Club also features beaches with white sand imported from Monterey, California, rock outcroppings and whirlpools. In addition, the Beach Club features swim-up blackjack, a Beach Club bar and grill, 37 Tahitian-style private cabanas, and a removable dance floor that extends from one of the beach areas, providing the perfect party space amid thousands of tons of imported sand. The private cabanas include water misters, a refrigerator, a safe, a television and (for an additional fee) an on-site massage service.
FOOD AND BEVERAGE. The resort offers its patrons a selection of high-quality food and beverages at multiple price points. The resort’s food and beverage operations include five restaurants (AJ’s Steakhouse, Pink Taco, Simon Kitchen and Bar, Mr. Lucky’s, and Nobu), three bars in the casino (the Las Vegas Lounge, Sports Deluxe and Center Bar), three bars in The Joint, a bar at the Beach Club and catering service for corporate events, conventions, banquets and parties. AJ’s Steakhouse, with seating capacity for approximately 100 persons, is reminiscent of classic steakhouses that reigned in 60’s Las Vegas, with an open kitchen, and serves prime Chicago stockyard beef. Pink Taco, with seating capacity of approximately 150 persons, is a hip authentic Mexican eatery with seasonal outside dining. Simon Kitchen and Bar, is a hip restaurant with seating capacity for approximately 180 persons designed by Yabu Pushelberg, serves the upscale world cuisine of celebrity chef Kerry Simon. Mr. Lucky’s, a 24-hour restaurant with seating capacity for approximately 200 persons, specializes in high-quality, moderately priced American cuisine. Nobu, with seating capacity of approximately 120 persons, is a ground breaking temple of Japanese cuisine with Latin American influences created by Master Chef Nobu Matsuhisa and owned and operated independently of the resort.
Both the 1,800 square-foot Las Vegas Lounge and the 1,963 square-foot Center Bar have become popular with both Las Vegas tourists and local residents who are attracted to the resort’s entertainment and vibrant, energetic atmosphere. As a result, these bars frequently reach their service capacity on weekends, holidays and when special events and concerts are held in The Joint or at the Beach Club. In addition, The Joint and the Beach Club offer their customers a limited selection of menu items and beverages.
THE ROCK SPA. Our state-of-the-art health club and spa facilities feature amenities such as treadmills, stair-masters, stationary bicycles, CYBEX machines, a variety of free-weights, steam rooms, showers, massage, facial and other personal services. We believe the Rock Spa is a facility suitable for a first-class destination resort.
BANQUETS AND CORPORATE EVENTS. The resort hosts a number of corporate events, conventions, banquets and private parties for up to 3,000 persons. Past clients include Callaway Golf, ESPN, HBO, VH1, Red Bull, PeopleSoft, Coors Brewing Co., Sketchers, Jack Daniels, Microsoft, Toyota, Sony, Goldman Sachs, Xerox, Wells Fargo and Sprint PCS. Depending upon the size of the event, customers can choose to host their corporate functions, conventions and banquets either indoors, at The Joint or in the Banquet facility, or outdoors, around the swimming pool at the Beach Club.
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
On February 21, 2006, we issued a press release announcing that we had received proposals to acquire the resort. We have determined to explore a potential sale of the resort but there is no assurance that this process will lead to a transaction. On that same date, HR Condominium Investors (Vegas), LLC (“HRCI”), an affiliate of Mr. Morton, our Chief Executive Officer, announced the suspension of its plans to build the condominium project adjacent to the resort.
MARKETING
Our marketing efforts are targeted at both the visitor market (tourists and business travelers) as well as local patrons. Our marketing department uses both traditional and innovative marketing strategies to promote the “Hard Rock Hotel” and “Hard Rock Casino” trademarks. We employ targeted marketing programs through use of our database, which contains in excess of 400,000 names and addresses and in excess of 300,000 email addresses. The resort is aggressively marketed not only through domestic and international public relations activities, direct mail, internet blasts, print, radio and television advertising, but also through special arrangements with various members of the entertainment industry. The Resort also hosts many well-publicized and often televised events such as the Boost Mobile Pro Skate competition and an AVP Pro Beach Volleyball tournament. We believe that these types of events are held at the resort because its stylish and distinctive atmosphere is consistent with the theme of the events. The events, in turn, reinforce the resort’s image as a destination resort among its target clientele. The concerts in The Joint by popular artists, some of which have been televised, are another form of promotional activity that reinforces the resort’s image.
The casino marketing staff has developed the Back Stage Pass program for visitors to the casino. The Back Stage Pass is a casino player tracking card. The program, which is available to all casino visitors, tracks each patron’s gaming record, and based on the level of gaming activity, members may become eligible for discounted or complimentary services, invitations to special events and merchandise at the resort. Every visitor who joins the Back Stage Pass program receives a Six-Pac of coupons redeemable at the resort. The coupons are redeemable for certain items available at the resort such as a free slot play, a complimentary shot glass or a reduced weekday room rate.
Management targets local residents through direct mail advertising as well as through hosting special events and parties specifically geared to the local population. In addition, management believes the off-Strip location and close proximity to a variety of restaurants and nightclubs attracts local residents to the resort.
TRADEMARKS
Hard Rock Hotel™ and Hard Rock Casino™ are registered trademarks of a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rank Group PLC (“Rank”). Upon the sale of Mr. Morton’s interest in the Hard Rock Cafes to Rank, in June 1996, Mr. Morton and Rank entered into a trademark licensing agreement pursuant to which Rank granted to Mr. Morton an exclusive, perpetual, royalty-free license, subject to certain termination provisions designed to protect the quality of the trademarks, to use the “Hard Rock Hotel” and “Hard Rock Casino” trademarks in connection with hotel casinos and casinos in the “Morton Territory” areas of the United States west of the Mississippi River plus Illinois and Louisiana, but excluding Texas (other than Houston), and in Australia, Brazil, Israel, Venezuela and metropolitan Vancouver, British Columbia. Mr. Morton in turn entered into a sublicensing agreement with the Company in which it obtained the exclusive right, subject to certain termination provisions designed to protect the quality of the trademarks, to use the “Hard Rock Hotel” and “Hard Rock Casino” trademarks in connection with the resort for an amended term lasting to the earlier of June 1, 2018 or the repayment in full of the Company’s 8 7/8% Second Lien Notes due 2013 (the “2013 Notes”).
LAS VEGAS MARKET
Las Vegas is one of the fastest growing and largest entertainment markets in the United States. During 2005, gaming revenues in Clark County reached $9.7 billion. The number of visitors traveling to Las Vegas was approximately 38.6 million in 2005, representing a compound annual growth rate of 5.0% since 1988’s 17.2 million visitors. Aggregate expenditures by Las Vegas visitors increased at a compound annual growth rate of 7.5% from $10.0 billion in 1988 to $36.7 billion in 2005. The number of hotel and motel rooms in Las Vegas increased at a compound annual growth rate of 3.9% from 67,391 in 1989 to 133,186 in 2005. We believe that the addition of quality themed hotel casinos and resorts during recent years will continue to increase visitor traffic to Las Vegas and we will benefit in particular due to our unique niche and proximity to the Strip.
The following table sets forth certain statistical information for the Las Vegas market for the years 2001 through 2005, as reported by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitor Authority.
LAS VEGAS MARKET STATISTICS
COMPETITION
The resort, located less than one mile east of the Strip, competes with other high-quality Las Vegas resorts and other Las Vegas hotel casinos, including those located on the Strip, on the basis of overall atmosphere, range of amenities, price, location, entertainment offered, theme and size. Currently, there are approximately 30 major gaming properties located on or near the Strip, 13 additional major gaming properties in the downtown area and additional gaming properties located in other areas of Las Vegas. Many of the competing properties, such as the Rio, Mandalay Bay, Paris, The Venetian, The Mirage, Treasure Island, Caesar’s Palace, Luxor, New York-New York, Bellagio, Aladdin, the Palms and the MGM Grand have themes and attractions which draw a significant number of visitors and directly compete with our operations. Some of these facilities are operated by companies that have more than one operating facility and may have greater name recognition and financial and marketing resources than us and market to the same target demographic group as we do. Furthermore, additional hotel casinos, containing a significant number of hotel rooms, are expected to open in Las Vegas within the coming years. There can be no assurance that the Las Vegas market will continue to grow or that hotel casino resorts will continue to be popular, and a decline or leveling off of the growth or popularity of such facilities would adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.
We will also face competition from competing “Hard Rock” hotels and hotel casinos that may be established in jurisdictions other than Las Vegas. We have the exclusive right to use the “Hard Rock Hotel” and “Hard Rock Casino” trademarks only in connection with the resort in Las Vegas. Mr. Morton holds the exclusive rights to exploit such trademarks in connection with hotel casinos and casinos in other parts of the Morton Territory, and Rank holds such rights in the remainder of the world. Rank may not open a hotel/casino or casino using the “Hard Rock” name in Las Vegas. Rank has the right to open hotels (without casinos) using the “Hard Rock” name anywhere outside of the State of Nevada.
To a lesser extent, the resort competes with hotel casinos in the Mesquite, Laughlin, Reno and Lake Tahoe areas of Nevada, and in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The resort also competes with state-sponsored lotteries, on- and off-track wagering, card parlors, riverboat and Native American gaming ventures, and other forms of legalized gaming in the United States, as well as with gaming on cruise ships, Internet gaming ventures and international gaming operations. In 1998, California enacted The Tribal Government Gaming and Economic Self-Sufficiency Act (the “Tribal Act”). The Tribal Act provides a mechanism for federally recognized Native American tribes to conduct certain types of gaming on their land. The California electorate approved Proposition 1A on March 7, 2000. Proposition 1A gives all California Indian tribes the right to operate a limited number of certain kinds of gaming machines and other forms of casino wagering on California Indian reservations. Continued proliferation of gaming activities permitted by Proposition 1A may materially negatively affect Nevada gaming markets and our financial position and results of operations. Management is unable, however, to assess the magnitude of the impact on us. See “Risk Factors- We Are Subject To Intense Local Competition That Could Hinder Our Ability To Operate Profitable- We Also Face Competition From Gambling Venues Located In Other Parts Of The Country and Potentially From Other “Hard Rock” Enterprises- Recently Enacted and Possible Legislation Governing Gambling Activities Could Materially and Adversely Affect Our Business.”
EMPLOYEES
As of December 31, 2005, we had 1,377 full-time employees and 510 on-call employees who are employed on an as-needed basis. None of our employees are members of unions; however, various unions have been aggressively soliciting new members in Las Vegas. We cannot assure that one or more unions will not approach our employees. We consider our relations with our employees to be good and have never experienced an organized work stoppage, strike or labor dispute.
REGULATION AND LICENSING
The ownership and operation of casino gaming facilities in Nevada are subject to: the Nevada Gaming Control Act and the regulations promulgated thereunder (collectively the “Nevada Act”); and various local regulations. Our gaming operations are subject to the licensing and regulatory control of the Nevada Gaming Commission (the “Nevada Commission”), the Nevada State Gaming Control Board (the “Nevada Board”) and the Clark County Liquor and Gaming Licensing Board (the “CCLGLB” and, together with the Nevada Commission and the Nevada Board, the “Nevada Gaming Authorities”).
The laws, regulations and supervisory procedures of the Nevada Gaming Authorities are based upon declarations of public policy which are concerned with, among other things: (a) the prevention of unsavory or unsuitable persons from having a direct or indirect involvement with gaming at any time or in any capacity; (b) the establishment and maintenance of responsible accounting practices and procedures; (c) the maintenance of effective controls over the financial practices of licensees, including the establishment of minimum procedures for internal fiscal affairs and the safeguarding of assets and revenues, providing reliable record keeping and requiring the filing of periodic reports with the Nevada Gaming Authorities; (d) the prevention of cheating and fraudulent practices; and (e) to provide a source of state and local revenues through taxation and licensing fees. Changes in such laws, regulations and procedures could have an adverse effect on our gaming operations.
We are required to be licensed by the Nevada Gaming Authorities. The gaming license requires the periodic payment of fees and taxes and is not transferable. No person may become a stockholder of, or receive any percentage of profits from us, without first obtaining licenses and approvals from the Nevada Gaming Authorities. We have obtained from the Nevada Gaming Authorities the various approvals, permits and licenses required in order to engage in our current gaming activities in Nevada. We received, subject to certain conditions, all additional approvals, registrations and regulation waivers required for the issuance of the $140,000,000 aggregate principal amount of the 2013 Notes.
The Nevada Gaming Authorities may investigate any individual who has a material relationship to, or material involvement with us, in order to determine whether such individual is suitable or should be licensed as a business associate of a gaming licensee. Our officers, directors and some of our key employees must file applications with the Nevada Gaming Authorities and may be required to be licensed or found suitable by the Nevada Gaming Authorities. The Nevada Gaming Authorities may deny an application for licensing for any cause that they deem reasonable. A finding of suitability is comparable to licensing, and both require submission of detailed personal and financial information followed by a thorough investigation in which the burden of proving one’s suitability is always on the applicant. The applicant for licensing or a finding of suitability must pay all the costs of the investigation. Changes in licensed positions must be reported to the Nevada Gaming Authorities and in addition to their authority to deny an application for a finding of suitability for license, the Nevada Gaming Authorities have jurisdiction to disapprove a change in a corporate position.
If the Nevada Gaming Authorities were to find an officer, director or key employee unsuitable for licensing or unsuitable to continue having a relationship with us, we would have to sever all relationships with such person. In addition, the Nevada Commission may require us to terminate the employment of any person who refuses to file appropriate applications. Determinations of suitability or of questions pertaining to licensing are not subject to judicial review in Nevada.
We are required to submit detailed financial and operating reports to the Nevada Commission. Substantially all material loans, leases, sales of securities and similar financing transactions by us must be reported to, or approved by, the Nevada Commission. If it were determined that the Nevada Act was violated by us, the gaming licenses it holds could be limited, conditioned, suspended or revoked, subject to compliance with certain statutory and regulatory procedures. In addition, we and the persons involved could be subject to substantial fines for each separate violation of the Nevada Act at the discretion of the Nevada Commission. Further, a supervisor could be appointed by the Nevada Commission to operate our gaming properties and, under certain circumstances, earnings generated during the supervisor’s appointment (except for the reasonable rental value of our gaming properties) could be forfeited to the State of Nevada. Limitation, conditioning or suspension of any gaming license or the appointment of a supervisor could (and revocation of any gaming license would) materially adversely affect our gaming operations.
Notwithstanding our status as a publicly registered corporation, prior approval of the Nevada Gaming Authorities is required to acquire any of our voting securities, regardless of the number of shares owned. Additionally, the beneficial owners of our Class A common stock and the Class B common stock are prohibited from selling, assigning, transferring, pledging or otherwise disposing of such stock without the prior approval of the Nevada Commission. Each holder shall be required to file an application, be investigated, and have his suitability as a beneficial owner of our equity securities determined. The applicant must pay all costs of investigation incurred by the Nevada Gaming Authorities in conducting any such investigation.
The Nevada Act provides that each person who acquires, directly or indirectly, beneficial ownership of any debt security in a publicly registered corporation which is registered with the Nevada Commission (a “Registered Corporation”) may be required to be found suitable if the Nevada Commission has reason to believe that the acquisition of such debt security would otherwise be inconsistent with the declared policy of the State of Nevada.
Under certain circumstances, an “institutional investor,” as defined in the Nevada Act, which acquires not more than 15%, of a Registered Corporation’s voting securities may apply to the Nevada Commission for a waiver of such finding of suitability if such institutional investor holds the voting securities for “investment purposes only.” An institutional investor shall not be deemed to hold voting securities for investment purposes unless the voting securities were acquired and are held in the ordinary course of business as an institutional investor and not for the purpose of causing, directly or indirectly, the election of a majority of the members of the board of directors of the Registered Corporation, any change in the corporate charter, bylaws, management, policies or operations of the Registered Corporation, or any of its gaming affiliates, or any other action which the Nevada Commission finds to be inconsistent with holding the Registered Corporation’s voting securities for investment purposes only. Activities which are not deemed to be inconsistent with holding voting securities for investment purposes only include: (a) voting on all matters voted on by stockholders;
(b) making financial and other inquiries of management of the type normally made by securities analysts for informational purposes and not to cause a change in its management, policies or operations; and (c) such other activities as the Nevada Commission may determine to be consistent with such investment intent. If the beneficial holder of voting securities who must be found suitable is a corporation, partnership or trust, it must submit detailed business and financial information, including a list of beneficial owners. The applicant is required to pay all costs of investigation. Under certain circumstances, the Nevada Commission may find that an entity qualifies as an “institutional investor” even if the interest held is not in a publicly registered company. However, the same maximum investment of 15% of the equity would remain.
Any person who fails or refuses to apply for a finding of suitability or a license within 30 days after being ordered to do so by the Nevada Commission or the Chairman of the Nevada Board, may be found unsuitable. The same restrictions apply to a record owner if the record owner, after request, fails to identify the beneficial owner. Any stockholder found unsuitable and who holds, directly or indirectly, any beneficial ownership of the common stock of a Registered Corporation beyond such period of time as may be prescribed by the Nevada Commission may be guilty of a criminal offense. We are subject to disciplinary action if, after we receive notice that a person is unsuitable to be a stockholder or to have any other relationship with us, we (a) pay that person any dividend or interest upon our voting securities, (b) allow that person to exercise, directly or indirectly, any voting right conferred through securities held by that person, (c) pay remuneration in any form to that person for services rendered or otherwise, or (d) fail to pursue all lawful efforts to require such unsuitable person to relinquish his voting securities for cash at fair market value. Additionally, pursuant to the Clark County Code, the CCLGLB has the authority to approve all persons owning or controlling the stock of any corporation controlling a gaming license.
The Nevada Commission may, in its discretion, require the holder of any debt security of a Registered Corporation to file applications, be investigated and be found suitable to own the debt security of a Registered Corporation. If the Nevada Commission determines that a person is unsuitable to own such security, then pursuant to the Nevada Act, he shall not hold, directly or indirectly, the debt security of the publicly registered company, beyond the time prescribed by the Nevada Commission. The Registered Corporation can be sanctioned, including the loss of its approvals, if without the prior approval of the Nevada Commission, it: (a) pays to the unsuitable person any dividend, interest, or any distribution whatsoever; (b) recognizes any voting rights by such unsuitable person in connection with such securities; (c) pays the unsuitable person remuneration in any form; or (d) makes any payment to the unsuitable person by way of principal, redemption, conversion, exchange, liquidation, or similar transaction.
We are required to maintain a current stock ledger in Nevada that may be examined by the Nevada Gaming Authorities at any time. If any securities are held in trust by an agent or by a nominee, the record holder may be required to disclose the identity of the beneficial owner to the Nevada Gaming Authorities. A failure to make such disclosure may be grounds for finding the record holder unsuitable. We are also required to render maximum assistance in determining the identity of the beneficial owner. The Nevada Commission has the power to require our stock certificates to bear a legend indicating that the securities are subject to the Nevada Act. Due to the fact that we are a corporate gaming licensee, our stock certificates carry a restrictive legend indicating our stock is subject to the Nevada Act. Furthermore, any negative covenant that restricts the transfer of the stock of a corporate licensee may require the prior approval of the Nevada Commission.
We may not make a public offering of our securities without the prior approval of the Nevada Commission if the securities or the proceeds therefrom are intended to be used to construct, acquire or finance gaming facilities in Nevada, or to retire or extend obligations incurred for such purposes. Such approval does not constitute a finding, recommendation or approval by the Nevada Commission or the Nevada Board as to the accuracy or adequacy of the prospectus or the investment merits of the securities. Any representation to the contrary is unlawful. We have applied for and received, subject to certain conditions, approval as a Registered Corporation based upon our prior debt offering, as well as a waiver of certain regulations of the Nevada Commission that prohibit a public offering by a corporation holding a Nevada gaming license. Such approval does not constitute a finding, recommendation or approval by the Nevada Commission or the Nevada Board as to the accuracy or adequacy of the prior prospectus or the investment merits of the debt securities offered, nor does it infer any such finding or recommendation or approval on the current offering memorandum. Any representation to the contrary is unlawful.
Changes in control of us through merger, consolidation, stock or asset acquisition, management or consulting agreements, or any act or conduct by a person whereby he obtains control, may not occur without the prior approval of the Nevada Commission. Entities seeking to acquire control of a Registered Corporation must satisfy the Nevada Board and Nevada Commission in a variety of stringent standards prior to assuming control of such Registered Corporation. The Nevada Commission may also require controlling stockholders, officers, directors and other persons having a material relationship or involvement with the entity proposing to acquire control, to be investigated and licensed as part of the prior approval process relating to the transaction.
The Nevada legislature has declared that some corporate acquisitions opposed by management, repurchases of voting securities and corporate defense tactics affecting Nevada gaming licenses, and Registered Corporations that are affiliated with these operations, may be injurious to stable and productive corporate gaming. The Nevada Commission has established a regulatory scheme to ameliorate the potentially adverse effects of these business practices upon Nevada’s gaming industry and to further Nevada’s policy to: (a) assure the financial stability of corporate gaming operators and their affiliates; (b) preserve the beneficial aspects of conducting business in the corporate form; and (c) promote a neutral environment for the orderly governance of corporate affairs. Approvals are, in certain circumstances, required from the Nevada Commission before we can make exceptional repurchases of voting securities
above the current market price thereof and before a corporate acquisition opposed by management can be consummated. The Nevada Act also requires prior approval of a plan of recapitalization proposed by our Board of Directors in response to a tender offer made directly to the Registered Corporation’s stockholders for the purposes of acquiring control of the Registered Corporation.
License fees and taxes, computed in various ways depending on the type of gaming or activity involved, are payable to the State of Nevada and to the counties and cities in which the Nevada licensee’s respective operations are conducted. Depending upon the particular fee or tax involved, these fees and taxes are payable either monthly, quarterly or annually and are based upon either: (a) a percentage of the gross revenues received; (b) the number of gaming devices operated; (c) the number of table games operated; or (d) a percentage of the room rate charged for each occupied room. A casino entertainment tax is also paid by casino operations where entertainment is furnished in connection with the selling of food or refreshments.
Any person who is licensed, required to be licensed, registered, required to be registered, or is under common control with such persons (each a “Licensee”), and who proposes to become involved in a gaming venture outside of Nevada is required to deposit with the Nevada Board, and thereafter maintain, a revolving fund in the amount of $10,000 to pay the ongoing expenses of investigation by the Nevada Board of their participation in such foreign gaming. The revolving fund is subject to increase or decrease in the discretion of the Nevada Commission. Thereafter, Licensees are required to comply with certain reporting requirements imposed by the Nevada Act. Licensees are also subject to disciplinary action by the Nevada Commission if the Licensee knowingly violates any laws of the foreign jurisdiction pertaining to the foreign gaming operation, fails to conduct the foreign gaming operation in accordance with the standards of honesty and integrity required of Nevada gaming operations, engages in activities that are harmful to the State of Nevada or its ability to collect gaming taxes and fees, or employs a person in the foreign operation who has been denied a license or finding of suitability in Nevada on the ground of personal unsuitability.
We have established, and will be required to maintain, a Gaming Compliance Program for the purpose of, at a minimum, performing due diligence, determining the suitability of relationships with other entities and individuals and to review and ensure compliance by us, our subsidiaries and any affiliated entities, with the Act and Regulations and the laws and regulations of any other jurisdiction in which we or our subsidiaries or affiliates operate. The Gaming Compliance Program, any amendments thereto, and the members, one such member which shall be independent, shall be administratively reviewed and approved by the Chairman of the Nevada Board. We shall amend the compliance program, or any element thereof, and perform such duties as may be assigned by the Chairman of the Nevada Board or his designee, related to review of activities relevant to our continuing qualification.
ITEM 1A.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only risks we face. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may impair our business operations. If any risks actually occur, our business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially and adversely affected. Some of the risks we are subject to include:
OUR SIGNIFICANT LEVERAGE WILL SEVERELY RESTRICT OUR FINANCING OPTIONS AND WILL RESULT IN HIGH INTEREST PAYMENTS
We are highly leveraged. In 2005, 2004 and 2003 we recorded net income of $14.0 million, $2.5 million and $2.1 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2005, our total long-term debt, including the current portion, was $197.9 million. The Company has a $0.3 million irrevocable standby letter of credit for the benefit of the State of Nevada related to the self insured portion of the Companies workers compensation insurance. As of December 31, 2005, we have $2.7 million of available borrowing capacity under our senior secured credit facility. Our substantial debt could adversely affect our financial health and prevent us from fulfilling our obligations. The consequences of our leverage include, but are not limited to, the following:
• we are limited in our ability to use operating cash flow in other areas of our business because we must dedicate a significant portion of our operating cash flow to make principal and interest payments on our indebtedness (upon full use of our senior credit facility, interest expense would be approximately $18.0 million per year, of which a portion relating to our Junior Subordinated Notes will accrue if not paid and require a substantial portion of our future expected annual cash from operations);
• our ability to obtain additional financing in the future for working capital, capital expenditures, development financing or other purposes may be limited;
• we may be placed at a competitive disadvantage relative to competitors that are not as highly leveraged; and
• we will be susceptible to adverse changes in the economy and the Las Vegas gaming market.
The agreements governing our long-term debt contain financial and other restrictive covenants limiting our ability to incur additional debt, but do not fully prohibit us from incurring debt in the future. Accordingly, if new debt is added to our current level of indebtedness, risks that we now face relating to our leverage could increase.
Furthermore, the agreements governing our long-term debt impose certain operating and financial restrictions on us. Our Senior Secured Credit Facility requires us to maintain specified fixed charge coverage, total leverage and senior leverage ratios. It also limits, among other things, our ability to create liens on our assets, sell assets or engage in mergers or consolidations, make
investments, pay dividends or engage in intracorporate transactions. Our failure to comply with numerous restrictive covenants contained in our debt agreements may result in a default, which, if not cured or waived, could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.
OUR FAILURE TO GENERATE SUFFICIENT REVENUE TO REPAY DEBT WOULD RESULT IN OUR REQUIREMENT OF ADDITIONAL FUNDING WHICH WE MAY NOT BE ABLE TO ARRANGE
We will be dependent to a significant extent upon the successful operation of the Resort for coverage of our debt service. Our future operating performance is itself dependent on a number of factors, many of which are outside of our control, including prevailing economic conditions, the demand for service we provide, competition and financial, business, regulatory and other factors. There can be no assurance that our future cash flows will be sufficient to meet all of our obligations and commitments.
If we are unable to generate sufficient cash from our future operations to satisfy any debt service requirements, or to pay our debts as they mature, we would be required to explore alternatives, such as seeking additional debt or equity financing, reducing or delaying capital expenditures or selling material assets or operations. We cannot assure that we would be successful in implementing any of these alternatives, if necessary. Also, Nevada law contains certain restrictions on the ability of companies engaged in the gaming business to undertake certain financing transactions. These restrictions, which are described in “Business-Regulation and Licensing” and “Government Regulation” could cause delays in obtaining necessary capital.
OUR FAILURE TO SATISFY OUR OBLIGATIONS UNDER OUR CREDIT FACILITY COULD RESULT IN THE LOSS OF SUBSTANTIALLY ALL OF OUR ASSETS
If we default on our Senior Secured Credit Facility, either by failing to make required payments or by breaching a covenant, the lenders under the Senior Secured Credit Facility could elect to:
• declare all borrowings to be due and payable, together with accrued and unpaid interest, and
• terminate their commitments.
If the lenders for any reason require early repayment of the funds borrowed pursuant to the Senior Secured Credit Facility, or fail to provide funds pursuant to the Revolving Credit Facility, we may not be able to repay that indebtedness or continue to operate.
Our obligations under the Senior Secured Credit Facility are secured by liens on substantially all of our existing and future assets, other than certain licenses which may not be pledged under applicable law. Upon an event of default and acceleration under our Senior Secured Credit Facility the lenders may exercise the right to control the operation of the Resort. That right is subject to prior approval by the Nevada Gaming Authorities of their application to acquire control of the Resort.
Borrowings under our Senior Secured Credit Facility will bear interest at floating rates based on the Federal Funds Rate, the prime lending rate or LIBOR. Increases in interest rates on indebtedness under our Senior Secured Credit Facility would increase our interest payment obligations and could adversely affect our business and results of operations. For more information, see “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.”
WE ARE SUBJECT TO INTENSE LOCAL COMPETITION THAT COULD HINDER OUR ABILITY TO OPERATE PROFITABLY
Our success is dependent upon the success of the Resort and its continuing ability to attract visitors and operate profitably. However, our operations are subject to significant business, economic, regulatory and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control.
The Resort, located less than one mile east of the Strip, competes with other high-quality Las Vegas resorts and other Las Vegas hotel casinos, including those located on the Strip, on the basis of overall atmosphere, range of amenities, price, location, entertainment offered, theme and size. Currently, there are approximately 30 major gaming properties located on or near the strip, 13 additional major gaming properties in the downtown area and additional gaming properties located in other areas of Las Vegas. Many of the competing properties, such as the Rio, Mandalay Bay, Paris, The Venetian, The Mirage, Treasure Island, Caesar’s Palace, Luxor, New York-New York, Bellagio, Aladdin, the Palms and the MGM Grand have themes and attractions which draw a significant number of visitors and directly compete with our operations. Some of these facilities are operated by companies that have more than one operating facility and may have greater name recognition and financial and marketing resources than us and market to the same target demographic group as we do. Furthermore, additional hotel casinos and high rise condo tels, containing a significant number of rooms, are expected to open in Las Vegas within the coming years. There can be no assurance that the Las Vegas market will continue to grow or that hotel casino resorts will continue to be popular, and a decline or leveling off of the growth or popularity of such facilities would adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. See “Business-Competition.”
WE ALSO FACE COMPETITION FROM GAMBLING VENUES LOCATED IN OTHER PARTS OF THE COUNTRY AND POTENTIALLY FROM OTHER “HARD ROCK” ENTERPRISES
We may also face competition from competing “Hard Rock” hotels and casinos that may be established in jurisdictions other than Las Vegas. We have the exclusive right to use the “Hard Rock Hotel” and “Hard Rock Casino” trademarks only in connection with the existing hotel and casino. Rank has rights to use the name “Hard Rock Hotel” and “Hard Rock Casino” in connection with other hotels and casinos, including in areas that may compete directly with us. Mr. Morton has rights to use the name "Hard Rock Hotel" and "Hard Rock Casino" in connection with other casinos. We cannot assure that the development by Rank or Mr. Morton of other hotels and casinos using names that include the phrase “Hard Rock” outside of Las Vegas will not adversely affect us. See “Business Competition” and “Use of the ‘Hard Rock’ Brand Names by Entities Other Than Us Could Damage Our Business and Hurt Our Results of Operations” and “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions-Transaction Related to the “Hard Rock” Brand Name.”
To a lesser extent, we compete with hotel casinos in the Mesquite, Laughlin, Reno and Lake Tahoe areas of Nevada, Atlantic City, New Jersey and other parts of the United States. We also compete with state-sponsored lotteries, on- and off-track wagering, card parlors, riverboat and Native American gaming ventures, and other forms of legalized gaming in the United States, as well as with gaming on cruise ships, Internet gaming ventures and international gaming operations. Continued proliferation of gaming activities could significantly and adversely affect our business and results of operations. See “Recently Enacted and Possible Legislation Governing Gambling Activities Could Materially and Adversely Affect Our Business.”
Many of our competitors in the hotel casino industry are emphasizing or are expected to emphasize their non-gaming businesses, including retail sales. Consequently, we have recently experienced, and expect to continue to experience, increased competition in the retail sales market in Las Vegas.
USE OF THE “HARD ROCK” BRAND NAMES BY ENTITIES OTHER THAN US COULD DAMAGE OUR BUSINESS AND HURT OUR RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.
We benefit from the global name recognition and reputation generated by the Hard Rock Cafes that are operated by Rank. At present, Rank operates or franchises over 100 Hard Rock Cafes located in the United States and abroad. Rank is, however, under no obligation to continue to own, operate or franchise the Hard Rock Cafes, and there can be no assurance that Rank will not sell, change the focus of, or manage such restaurants in a manner that would adversely affect the resort.
In addition, although we have obtained the exclusive right to use and develop the “Hard Rock Hotel” and “Hard Rock Casino” trademarks in connection with the resort in Las Vegas, a subsidiary of Rank is the sole owner of the rights to the “Hard Rock Cafe,” “Hard Rock Hotel” and “Hard Rock Casino” trademarks. As a result, Rank or its licensee can exploit the “Hard Rock” name and logo, other than in connection with hotel casinos and casinos in the Morton Territory, including marketing “Hard Rock” merchandise, anywhere in the world. See “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions-Transaction Related to the “Hard Rock” Brand Name.” There can be no assurance that our business and results of operations will not be adversely affected by the management of the “Hard Rock” brand name.
WE DEPEND UPON ONE KEY MARKET AND HAVE A LIMITED BASE OF OPERATIONS WHICH MAY RESULT IN FLUCTUATIONS IN OUR OPERATING RESULTS AND INABILITY TO GENERATE SUFFICIENT CASH FLOW TO FUND OUR WORKING CAPITAL NEEDS
All of our revenues are generated from the resort. Our results of operations are dependent on conditions in Las Vegas and, indirectly, Southern California, where many of the resort’s targeted customers reside. A decline in the local economies of Las Vegas or Southern California could have a negative effect on our business and results of operations. Rising fuel prices in California could also adversely affect our financial results. In addition, because Las Vegas draws from a national and international tourist base, a downturn in the domestic or global economies could have a negative effect on our business and results of operations. Furthermore, due to our single location, we are subject to greater risks than a more diversified hotel and casino resort operator, including natural and other disasters and changes in local and state governmental laws and regulations.
The combination of the single location and the significant investment associated with it may cause our operating results to fluctuate significantly and adversely affect us. Due to the single location, poor operating results at the resort would materially affect our total profitability. Future growth in revenues and profits will depend to a large extent on our ability to successfully generate cash flow from our single location sufficient for our working capital needs.
WE RELY ON KEY PERSONNEL, THE LOSS OF THE SERVICES OF WHICH WOULD MATERIALLY AND ADVERSELY AFFECT OUR RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Our ability to operate successfully and competitively is dependent, in part, upon the continued services of certain of our employees, particularly Peter A. Morton, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer. In the event that Mr. Morton were to leave us, we might not be able to find a suitable replacement. We believe that the loss of services by Mr. Morton could have a
material adverse effect on us. We do not maintain key man life insurance for any officer or director, including Mr. Morton. Mr. Morton has several outside business interests and may have additional business interests in the future. Although Mr. Morton currently spends substantially all of his business time on our business and operations, we cannot assure that he will do so in the future.
Our shareholders, officers, directors and key employees, including Mr. Morton, are required to file applications with the Nevada Gaming Authorities and may be required to be licensed or found suitable by the Nevada Gaming Authorities. The Nevada Gaming Authorities may deny any application for any cause that they deem reasonable. In the event the Nevada Gaming Authorities were to find any person unsuitable for licensing or unsuitable to continue having a relationship with us, we would be required to sever all relationships with such person. We cannot assure that any such person will be able to obtain or maintain any requisite license or finding of suitability by the Nevada Gaming Authorities.
WE ARE CONTROLLED ENTIRELY BY MR. MORTON
Mr. Morton beneficially owns over 90% of our outstanding common stock, including 100% of our outstanding voting common stock. Thus, Mr. Morton controls the election of our Board of Directors and can approve or disapprove any other matters submitted to the shareholders.
LACK OF SIGNIFICANT OPERATING HISTORY WITH CURRENT MANAGEMENT
We have independently operated the resort for over six years. During December 2002, our President and Chief Operating Officer resigned. During January 2003, our Board of Directors appointed a new President and Chief Operating Officer, Kevin Kelley. Our continued success will depend on the successful management by this new officer of our operations. We cannot assure that our President will be able to successfully manage our operations effectively.
FACTORS AFFECTING THE ECONOMY AND CONSUMER CONFIDENCE MAY HARM OUR OPERATING RESULTS.
The strength and profitability of our business depends on the overall demand for our products and growth in the gaming industry. Gaming industry revenues are sensitive to general economic conditions and are influenced by consumer confidence in the economy and other factors. The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, ongoing terrorist and war activities in the United States and elsewhere and concerns relating to travel safety generally have had a negative impact on travel and leisure expenditures, including lodging, gaming and tourism, and are likely to continue to affect the overall economy and consumer confidence. An extended period of reduced discretionary spending and/or disruptions or declines in airline travel could significantly harm our operations and we may not be able to lower our costs rapidly enough to counter a decrease in revenues.
GOVERNMENT REGULATION
The gaming operations and the ownership of our securities are subject to extensive regulation by the Nevada Gaming Authorities. See “Business- Regulation and Licensing.” The Nevada Gaming Authorities have broad authority with respect to licensing and registration of entities and individuals involved with the Company.
Although we currently hold a gaming license issued by the Nevada Gaming Authorities, the Nevada Gaming Authorities may, upon the violation of a gaming law or regulation and after disciplinary complaint and public hearing, among other things, revoke, suspend, limit or condition the gaming license of any corporate entity, which we will refer to as a corporate licensee, or the registration of a Registered Corporation or any entity registered as a holding company of a Corporate Licensee or fine each person or entity or both up to $250,000 for each violation. In addition, the Nevada Gaming Authorities may revoke the license or finding of suitability of any officer, director, controlling person, shareholder, noteholder or key employee of a licensed or registered entity. If our gaming licenses and/or registrations were revoked for any reason, the Nevada Gaming Authorities could require the closing of our
gaming operations, which would result in a material adverse effect on our business. We have been licensed and certain of our officers, directors, shareholders and key employees either have been found suitable or have applied for findings of suitability with, the Nevada Gaming Authorities.
Any public offering of debt or equity securities by us requires the prior approval of the Nevada Commission, if the securities or the proceeds from the sale thereof are intended to be used by us to pay for construction of, or to acquire an interest in, any gaming facilities in Nevada, to finance the gaming operations of an affiliated company or to retire or extend obligations incurred for any such purpose.
WE CANNOT ASSURE THAT THE MARKET DATA INCLUDED IN THIS REPORT IS ACCURATE
We have included in this report market data and information with respect to the performance of other gaming entities that we believe to be reasonably accurate. We have not independently verified this data and information, which is subject to material uncertainties due to, among other things, the unavailability of raw data, the voluntary nature of the data gathering process and the inherent uncertainty of the estimation process. Readers should not place undue reliance on this information as we cannot assure that it is accurate in all material respects.
WE ARE SUBJECT TO ENVIRONMENTAL RISKS AND REGULATION WHICH COULD MATERIALLY AND ADVERSELY AFFECT OUR BUSINESS AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
We have engaged in real estate development projects and have owned and operated several parcels of real estate. As a result, we are subject to various federal, state and local laws and regulations that make us liable for the costs of cleaning up, and other costs relating to, releases of hazardous substances on our property or at properties to which we have sent solid or hazardous wastes. The types of activities that can lead to environmental liability include discharges to air and water, and handling and disposal of solid and hazardous waste. Environmental laws and regulations may impose liability regardless of whether the owner or operator caused or even knew of the contamination, and in some cases, one’s liability could exceed the value of the property itself. The presence of hazardous substances, or the failure to properly remediate any resulting contamination, could materially adversely effect the value of the property that is collateral for our obligations under the notes and could inhibit our ability to sell, lease or operate the property or to borrow using the property as collateral. We do not have environmental liability insurance to cover such events. Although there can be no assurance, we are not aware of any condition at any of our current or past properties that would have a material adverse effect on our business or results of operations.
Under environmental laws and regulations, a beneficiary of a deed of trust or mortgage on real property, such as the trustee, may be held liable, under certain circumstances, for the cost of remediating or preventing releases or threatened releases of hazardous materials at a mortgaged property, and for other rights and liabilities relating to hazardous materials, although such liability rarely has been imposed. In addition, holders of the 2013 Notes may act directly rather than through the trustee, in specified circumstances, in order to pursue a remedy under the indenture. If the holders exercise that right, they could be subject to the risks discussed above.
RECENTLY ENACTED AND POSSIBLE LEGISLATION GOVERNING GAMBLING ACTIVITIES COULD MATERIALLY AND ADVERSELY AFFECT OUR BUSINESS
We also compete to some extent with casinos in other states, riverboat and Native American gaming ventures, state-sponsored lotteries, on- and off-track wagering, card parlors, Internet gaming and other forms of legalized gaming in the United States, as well as with gaming on cruise ships and international gaming operations. In addition, certain states have recently legalized or are considering legalizing casino gaming in specific geographical areas within those states. Any future development of casinos, lotteries, “racinos” or other forms of gaming in other states, particularly areas close to Nevada, such as California, could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.
The number of casinos on Indian lands has increased since the enactment of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988. Also, in March 2000, California voters approved an amendment to the California Constitution allowing federally recognized Native American tribes to conduct and operate slot machines, lottery games and banked and percentage card games on Native American land in California. As a result, casino-style gaming on tribal lands is growing and could become a significant competitive force. The proliferation of Native American gaming in California could have a negative impact on our operations. In addition, the proliferation of gaming in other areas could significantly impact our business as well.
The National Gambling Impact Study Commission’s recommendations may adversely affect the gaming industry and our operations. A National Gambling Impact Study Commission was established by the U.S. Congress to conduct a comprehensive study of the social and economic impact of legal gaming in the United States. On April 28, 1999, the National Commission voted to recommend that the expansion of gaming be curtailed. In June 1999, the National Commission issued a final report of its findings and conclusions, together with recommendations for legislative and administrative actions.
The United States Congress is presently considering a bill that stems from a recommendation of the National Commission. This bill proposes to completely ban betting on college and amateur sports in the United States, including Nevada, and if enacted into law, would adversely effect the gaming industry and materially and adversely impact our business and results of operations.
Additionally, from time to time, certain legislators have proposed the imposition of a tax on gaming revenues. The Nevada legislature is currently considering various proposals to increase taxes on gaming operations. While the final tax legislation has not been enacted and the magnitude of any increase has not been determined, if a new tax on gaming operations is adopted we will be subject to increased taxes which could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operation.
ITEM 1B.
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.
ITEM 2.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
We own approximately 16.7 acres of land in Las Vegas where the Resort is located.
ITEM 3.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
We are a defendant in various lawsuits relating to routine matters incidental to our business. Management does not believe that the outcome of any such litigation, in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on our business or results of operations.
The company is a defendant in a lawsuit filed by ACM, Inc. ACM, Inc. alleges the company failed to pay approximately $600,000 due under a telephone consulting contract. The Company disputes the allegations and denies any further amounts are due.
ITEM 4.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
Mr. Morton, the Company’s Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Secretary, holds indirectly through Lily Pond Investments, Inc., all of the Company’s outstanding Class A voting common stock. Effective March 13, 2003, as sole holder Mr. Morton voted to re-elect the company’s directors to serve until such time as they are succeeded by a new election, are removed or resign and until their successors are duly elected and qualified. In addition, it was resolved that all activities and transactions reflected on the books and records of the Company to date are deemed to have been taken in the best interests of the Company and were ratified, affirmed and approved.
PART II
ITEM 5.
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
There is no established public trading market for our common stock.
As of December 31, 2005, there was one holder of record of our Class A Common Stock and 11 holders of record of our Class B Common Stock. As of December 31, 2005, we did not have any equity compensation plans.
We have never paid any cash dividends on our common stock and do not anticipate paying any cash dividends in the foreseeable future. Our current debt limits our ability to pay dividends. We currently intend to retain future earnings to help fund the development and growth of our business and to reduce the outstanding indebtedness.
ITEM 6.
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
Our selected historical income statement data set forth below for the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003 and the selected historical balance sheet data set forth below at December 31, 2005 and 2004 have been derived from our Financial Statements which have been audited and are included elsewhere herein. Our selected historical income statement data set forth below for the years ended December 31, 2002 and 2001has been derived from our audited Financial Statements not included herein. Our selected historical balance sheet data set forth below at December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001has been derived from our audited Financial Statements not included herein. The selected financial and operating data set forth below should be read in conjunction with the Financial Statements and notes thereto and with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”
(1) Capital expenditures for 2003, 2002 and 2001 exclude $0.4 million, $1.4 million and $0.8 million, respectively, of non-cash additions.
(2) In computing the ratio of earnings to fixed charges: (a) earnings have been based on income (loss) before income taxes and fixed charges, net of interest capitalized, adding back amount of amortized capitalized interest, and (b) fixed charges consist of interest, including amounts capitalized, amortization of debt issuance costs, and the estimated interest portion of rental expense.
(3) Loss on early extinguishment of debt in 2003 is related to a $3.0 million premium paid to the holders of the Company’s 9 1/4% Notes due 2005 which were refinanced during the second quarter of 2003 and due to a $1.3 million write-off of unamortized deferred debt issuance costs related to the retired debt. Loss on early extinguishment of debt in 2005 is related to a $1.2 million premium paid to the holders of the Company’s Junior Notes which were retired during the fourth quarter of 2005.
(4) During 2002, the Company recorded a $1.7 million loss on the abandonment of its development activities related to the Pink Taco restaurant and bar which the Company had planned to open on the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood, California. The decision to abandon the development was based on several factors including global uncertainties, the less than robust economy, the recent changes in the Company’s management and a desire to focus more on its Las Vegas operations.
(5) During 2005, the Company recorded a $0.6 million loss on the disposal of assets, $0.3 million related to hotel expansion which was abandoned when the company started the condo tel expansion and $0.3 million related to other operating assets being retired. During 2004, the Company recorded a $2.6 million loss on the disposal of assets related to the closure of Baby’s nightclub.
(6) During 2003, the Company exchanged all of its outstanding preferred stock and the remaining accrued and unpaid dividends thereon for an aggregate principal amount of junior subordinated notes equal to approximately $50.0 million.
(7) In 2005, the Company reclassified loss on disposal of assets from non operating expenses into operating expenses for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2003, 2002 and 2001. In 2005, the Company also changed to the gross revenue method to account for entertainment ticket sales and catering production revenue instead of the net revenue method which resulted in a reclassification to revenue and related expenses for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2003, 2002 and 2001 (see Note 1 to the financial statements).
ITEM 7.
ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF OUR FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
THE FOLLOWING DISCUSSION SHOULD BE READ IN CONJUNCTION WITH, AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY, OUR FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, INCLUDING THE NOTES THERETO, AND THE OTHER FINANCIAL INFORMATION APPEARING ELSEWHERE IN THIS ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K.
OVERVIEW
Our sole business is the operation of the Resort. During the year ended December 31, 2005, the Resort’s gross revenues were derived 34% from gaming operations, 34% from food and beverage, 20% from lodging, and 12% from retail and other sales. Our business strategy is to provide our guests with an energetic and exciting gaming and entertainment environment with the services and amenities of a luxury, boutique hotel.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2005 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004
NET REVENUES. Net revenues increased 17% for the year ended December 31, 2005 to $181.0 million compared to $155.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2004. The $25.9 million increase in net revenues was primarily attributable to a $12.4 million or 23% increase in food and beverage revenue, a $9.0 million or 16% increase in casino revenue, a $3.4 million or 10% increase in lodging revenue and a $3.8 million or 29% increase in other revenues. These increases in revenue were partially offset by a $2.5 million or 22% increase in promotional allowances related to items furnished to customers on a complimentary basis.
CASINO REVENUES. The $9.0 million increase in casino revenues was primarily due to a $6.6 million or 17% increase in table games revenues, a $2.1 million or 12% increase in slot revenue and a $0.3 million or 25% increase in race and sports revenue. The increase in table games revenues was due to an increase in table games hold percentage and an increase in table games drop. Table games hold percentage increased 1.1 percentage points to 14.5% from 13.4%. Table games drop increased $23.6 million or 8% to $312.7 million from $289.1 million. The average number of table games in operations decreased to 91 from 92, a decrease of 1 table or 1%. The net result of these changes in drop, hold percentage and average number of table games in operation was an increase in win per table game per day to $1,363 from $1,149, an increase of $214 or 19%. We have historically reported table games hold percentage using the gross method, while casinos on the Strip report hold percentage using the net method (which reduces the table game drop by marker repayments made in the gaming pit area). For the purpose of comparison to properties on the Strip, our net hold percentage for the year ended December 31, 2005 was 16.8% compared to 15.5% for the year ended December 31, 2004. Slot machine revenues increased $2.1 million due to slot machine handle increasing $47.5 million or 14% to $375.2 million from $327.7 million. The increase in slot machine handle was partially offset by a decrease in slot machine hold percentage. Slot machine hold percentage decreased 0.1 percentage points to 5.1% from 5.2%. The average number of slot machines in operation increased to 552 from 550, an increase of 2 machines or less than 1%. The net result of these changes in handle, hold percentage and average number of slot machines in operation was an increase in win per slot machine per day to $95 from $84, an increase of $11 or 13%. Race and sports book revenue increased $0.3 million due to an increase in race and sports book handle and an increase in hold percentage. The race and sports book handle increased $2.0 million from $18.3 million in the year ended December 31, 2004 to $20.3 million in the year ended December 31, 2005. The race and sports book was closed approximately one month during 2004 for remodeling. Race and sports book hold percentage increased 0.9 percentage points to 8.2% from 7.3%.
LODGING REVENUES. The $3.4 million increase in lodging revenues to $38.4 million was primarily due to an increase in average daily rate (“ADR”) to $169 from $151. Hotel occupancy increased slightly to 94.4% from 93.5%.
FOOD AND BEVERAGE REVENUES. The $12.4 million increase in food and beverage revenues was due to food revenues increasing by approximately $3.0 million and beverage revenues increasing by approximately $9.4 million. Food revenues increased due primarily to a $1.1 million increase in Banquet food, a $0.7 million increase in Room Service, a $0.4 million increase in Pink Taco, a $0.3 million increase in AJ’s Steakhouse, a $0.2 million increase in Mr. Lucky’s, and $0.1 million increases in both Beach Club Food and Starbucks. Every food outlet had an increase in revenue year over year. Beverage revenues increased due primarily to a $6.6 million increase in Body English which is our new club replacing Baby’s, a $0.7 million increase in Beach Club Bar due to the success of our new pool party called Rehab, a $0.6 million increase in Banquet Bar, a $0.6 million increase in the Joint Bar due to 55 concerts in 2005 compared to 39 concerts in 2004, a $0.3 million increase in Casino Bars, a $0.2 million increase in Pink Taco Bar and a $0.1 million increase in each of AJ’s Steakhouse, Sports Deluxe and Simon Kitchen and Bar.
RETAIL REVENUES. Retail revenue remained constant at $7.8 million.
OTHER REVENUES. Other revenues increased $3.8 million primarily due to a $2.8 million increase in ticket sales, a $0.2 million increase in both Rock Spa and chip and token float taken to income, a $0.1 million increase in each of Love Jones, Sundries, Cuba Libre, rental income and Box Office ticket revenue.
PROMOTIONAL ALLOWANCES. Promotional allowances increased as a percentage of casino revenues to 21% from 20%. This increase is due to additional promotional allowances offered by Body English.
CASINO EXPENSES. Casino expenses increased $3.1 million or 9% to $36.3 million from $33.2 million. The increase was primarily due to a $1.3 million increase in the cost of complimentaries allocated to the casino department, a $0.3 million increase in gaming taxes, a $0.2 million increase in discounts, a $0.2 million increase in bad debt expense, a $0.1 million increase in food and beverage comps redeemed in outlets that are not owed by the Company, a $0.1 million increase in customer reimbursed travel and a $0.1 million increase in apparel. These increases were offset partially by a $0.3 million decrease in player promotions. The Company’s provision and allowance for doubtful accounts are based on estimates by management of the collectability of the receivable balances at each period end. Management’s estimates consider, among other factors, the age of the receivables, the type or source of the receivables and the results of collection efforts to date, especially with regard to significant accounts. Casino expenses as a percentage of casino revenues decreased to 55% from 58% in the prior year. This increase in efficiency is due primarily to the hold percentage in table games increasing 1.1 percentage points which produces more revenue with the same fixed expenses.
LODGING EXPENSES. Lodging expenses in relation to lodging revenues, prior to reclassifying the cost of complimentaries to casino expense or department complimentaries to promotional allowances, remained constant at 31%.
FOOD AND BEVERAGE COSTS AND EXPENSES. Food and beverage costs and expenses in relation to food and beverage revenues, prior to reclassifying the cost of complimentaries to casino expense or department complimentaries to promotional allowances, decreased to 59% from 62% in the prior year. These efficiencies were achieved by decreasing the cost of goods sold in the food and beverage departments. Cost of goods sold in the food outlets decreased to 28% from 30% in the prior year. Cost of goods sold in the beverage outlets decreased to 19% from 21%.
RETAIL COSTS AND EXPENSES. Retail costs and expenses in relation to retail revenues, prior to reclassifying the cost of complimentaries to casino expense or department complimentaries to promotional allowances, increased to 53% from 50%. This decrease in efficiency is due primarily to additional expense in training our staff.
OTHER COSTS AND EXPENSES. Other costs and expenses in relation to other income increased to 101% from 87%. The increase is due to upgrading the quality of our hair salon and Rock Spa and increasing the number of concerts in the Joint.
RELATED PARTY EXPENSES. Related party expenses increased $1.9 million or 40% to $6.7 million from $4.8 million. The increase was primarily due to a $1.0 million increase in supervisory fee. The supervisory fee is equal to two percent of annual gross revenues (as defined), net of complimentaries for each year. In the year ended December 31, 2005, the Company recorded additional supervisory fees of $0.4 million that related to reclassification of revenue in the years ended December 31, 2004, 2003, 2002 and 2001 (see NOTE 1 to the financial statements).
MARKETING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE. Marketing, general and administrative expenses in relation to gross revenues remained constant at 17%. The $5.6 million increase in these expenses was primarily due to a $3.1 million increase in payroll and related expenses, including management incentives and 1999 Performance Awards Plan expenses, an increase of $0.6 in advertising expense, a $0.5 million increase in contract services, a $0.4 million increase in insurance costs, a $0.2 million increase in guest claims and legal expense, a $0.2 million increase in utility costs, a $0.4 increase in miscellaneous expense, a $0.1 million increase in donations and a $0.1 million increase in taxes.
DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION. Depreciation and amortization expense increased to $12.0 million from $11.4 million due to current additions.
INTEREST EXPENSE. Interest expense increased to $19.3 million from $19.1 million, an increase of $0.2 million or 1%. This increase was primarily due to the increase in the borrowing rate on our variable debt.
LOSS ON EARLY EXTINGUISHMENT OF DEBT. Loss on early extinguishments of debt is related to the $1.2 million premium paid to the holders of the Company’s Junior notes, for the repurchase of $15.0 million of the outstanding notes.
LOSS ON DISPOSAL OF ASSETS. During 2005, the Company recorded a $0.6 million loss on the disposal of assets, $0.3 million related to hotel expansion which was abandoned when the company started the condo tel expansion and $0.3 million related to other operating assets being retired. During 2004, the Company opened a new nightclub called Body English. This club replaced Baby’s Nightclub. The loss included approximately $2.6 million of building improvement and equipment costs.
PRE-OPENING. During 2005, the Company recorded a $0.3 million in pre-opening expense for a possible casino in California. During 2004, the Company recorded a $0.5 million in pre-opening expense for the opening of our new nightclub called Body English. This club replaced Baby’s Nightclub.
INCOME TAXES. During 2005, in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 109, the Company released its deferred tax valuation and has recognized the benefit of its net deferred tax assets based on an assessment of future profits and historical earnings. The standard requires recognition of a future tax benefit to the extent that realization of such benefit is more likely than not. During the year ended December 31, 2005 the company recognized an income tax benefit of $7.4 million. The Company did not have income tax expense during the year ended December 31, 2004 due to being able to offset 100% of its income with NOL from previous periods against which a valuation allowance has been placed.
NET INCOME APPLICABLE TO COMMON SHAREHOLDERS. Net income applicable to common shareholders was $14.0 million compared to $2.5 million during the prior year period. The increase in net results for common shareholders was due to the factors described above in addition to a $0.3 million increase in interest income.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2003
NET REVENUES. Net revenues increased 8% for the year ended December 31, 2004 to $155.1 million compared to $143.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2003. The $11.9 million increase in net revenues was primarily attributable to a $5.1 million or 17% increase in lodging revenue, a $7.6 million or 16% increase in food and beverage revenue and a $1.2 million or 11% increase in other revenues. These increases in revenue were partially offset by a $0.6 million or 1% decrease in casino revenue, a $0.6 million or 7% decrease in retail revenue and a $0.7 million or 7% increase in promotional allowances related to items furnished to customers on a complimentary basis.
CASINO REVENUES. The $0.6 million decrease in casino revenues was primarily due to a $0.5 million or 3% decrease in slot revenue and a $0.4 million or 24% decrease in race and sports revenue partially offset by a $0.3 million or 1% increase in table games revenues. The increase in table games revenues was due to an increase in table games hold percentage which was partially offset by a decrease in table games drop. Table games hold percentage increased 0.1 percentage points to 13.4% from 13.3%. Table games drop decreased $0.9 million or less than 1% to $289.1 million from $290.0 million. The average number of table games in operations increased to 92 from 91, an increase of 1 table or 1%. The net result of these changes in drop, hold percentage and average number of table games in operation was a decrease in win per table game per day to $1,149 from $1,157, a decrease of $8 or less than 1%. We have historically reported table games hold percentage using the gross method, while casinos on the Strip report hold percentage using the net method (which reduces the table game drop by marker repayments made in the gaming pit area). For the purpose of comparison to properties on the Strip, our net hold percentage for the year ended December 31, 2004 was 15.5% compared to 15.3% for the year ended December 31, 2003. Slot machine revenues decreased $0.5 million due to slot machine handle decreasing $38.1 million or 10% to $327.7 million from $365.8 million. The decrease in slot machine handle was partially offset by an increase in slot machine hold percentage. Slot machine hold percentage increased 0.4 percentage points to 5.2% from 4.8%. The average number of slot machines in operation decreased to 550 from 559, a decrease of 9 machines or 1%. The net result of these changes in handle, hold percentage and average number of slot machines in operation was a decrease in win per slot machine per day to $84 from $86, a decrease of $2 or 2%. Race and sports book revenue decreased $0.4 million due to a decrease in race and sports book handle and a decrease in hold percentage. The race and sports book handle decreased $2.1 million from $20.4 million in the year ended December 31, 2003 to $18.3 million in the year ended December 31, 2004. The race and sports book was closed approximately one month this year due to remodeling. Race and sports book hold percentage decreased 1.1 percentage points to 7.3% from 8.4%.
LODGING REVENUES. The $5.1 million increase in lodging revenues to $35.1 million was primarily due to an increase in average daily rate (“ADR”) to $151 from $129. Hotel occupancy increased slightly to 93.5% from 92.9% between periods.
FOOD AND BEVERAGE REVENUES. The $7.6 million increase in food and beverage revenues was due to food revenues increasing by approximately $2.6 million and beverage revenues increasing by approximately $5.0 million. Food revenues increased due primarily to a $0.9 million increase in Banquet food, a $0.5 million increase in Simon Kitchen and Bar, a $0.4 million increase in Mr. Lucky’s, a $0.3 million increase in Pink Taco, a $0.2 million increase in AJ’s Steakhouse and $0.1 million increases in each of Starbuck’s, Beach Club Food and Room Service. Every food outlet had an increase in revenue year over year. Beverage revenues increased due primarily to a $2.3 million increase in Body English which is our new club replacing Baby’s, a $0.8 million increase in Beach Club Bar due to the success of our new pool party called Rehab, a $0.8 million increase in Casino Bars, a $0.3 million increase in Banquet Bar, a $0.2 million increase in each of Sports Deluxe, Pink Taco and Simon Kitchen and Bar and a $0.1 million increase in both AJ’s Steakhouse and Mr. Lucky’s. These increases in beverage revenues were partially offset by a decrease of $0.1 million in the Joint Bar. The decrease in Joint Bar revenue was due to having 25 more concerts in the year ended December 31, 2003 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2004.
RETAIL REVENUES. We believe the $0.6 million decrease in retail revenues was due in part to continued general market decline in the themed merchandise segment and the addition of other retail operations in Las Vegas.
OTHER REVENUES. Other revenue increased $1.2 million primarily due to a $0.4 million increase in Love Jones, a $0.2 million increase in each of the Rock Spa, rental income from jewelry store and the Beach Club and a $0.1 million increase in Sundries and ticket revenue.
PROMOTIONAL ALLOWANCES. Promotional allowances increased as a percentage of casino revenues to 20% from 19%. This increase is due to additional promotional allowances offered by Body English.
CASINO EXPENSES. Casino expenses increased $0.1 million or less than 1% to $33.2 million from $33.1 million. The increase was primarily due to a $0.5 million increase in payroll and related expenses, a $0.4 million increase in gaming taxes, a $0.1 million increase in food and beverage comps redeemed in outlets that are not owed by the Company, a $0.1 million increase in customer reimbursed travel and a $0.1 million increase in apparel. These increases were offset partially by a $0.4 million decrease in discounts, a $0.3 million decrease in player promotions, a $0.2 million decrease in bad debt expense, a $0.1 million decrease in equipment rental and a $0.1 million decrease in other operational expenses. The Company’s provision and allowance for doubtful accounts are based on estimates by management of the collectability of the receivable balances at each period end. Management’s estimates consider, among other factors, the age of the receivables, the type or source of the receivables and the results of collection efforts to date, especially with regard to significant accounts. Casino expenses as a percentage of casino revenues increased to 58% from 57% in the prior year.
LODGING EXPENSES. Lodging expenses in relation to lodging revenues, prior to reclassifying the cost of complimentaries to casino expense or department complimentaries to promotional allowances, decreased to 31% from 32% in the prior year due primarily to a higher ADR while total operating expenses prior to reclassifying complimentaries to casino expense increased approximately $1.0 million primarily related to a $0.2 million increase in labor and related expenses, a $0.5 million increase in laundry and amenities expenses due to upgrading their quality, a $0.1 million increase in credit card fees, a $0.1 million increase in professional services and a $0.1 million increase in other operating expenses.
FOOD AND BEVERAGE COSTS AND EXPENSES. Food and beverage costs and expenses in relation to food and beverage revenues, prior to reclassifying the cost of complimentaries to casino expense or department complimentaries to promotional allowances, remained constant at 62%.
RETAIL COSTS AND EXPENSES. Retail costs and expenses in relation to retail revenues, prior to reclassifying the cost of complimentaries to casino expense or department complimentaries to promotional allowances, increased to 50% from 48% in the prior year due to a shift in merchandise being sold from logo tee shirts to brand name merchandise.
OTHER COSTS AND EXPENSES. Other costs and expenses in relation to other income decreased to 87% from 89%. Rental income increased, which does not have costs associated with the revenue, is the reason for this margin improving.
MARKETING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE. Marketing, general and administrative expenses in relation to gross revenues increased to 17% from 16%. The $3.9 million increase in these expenses was primarily due to a $1.0 million increase in customer promotions, a $1.1 million increase in payroll and related expenses, including management incentives and 1999 Performance Awards Plan expenses, a $0.4 million increase in guest claims and legal expense, a $0.1 million increase in insurance costs, a $0.1 million increase in contract services, a $0.2 million increase in donations, a $0.5 million increase in engineering costs, a $0.2 million increase in Environmental Services, a $0.4 increase in miscellaneous expense, a $0.1 increase in public relations costs and a $0.2 million increase in taxes. These costs were slightly offset by a decrease of $0.3 in advertising expense.
DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION. Depreciation and amortization expense decreased to $11.4 million from $11.8 million due to a large number of five year assets being fully depreciated from our expansion in 1999.
INTEREST EXPENSE. Interest expense increased to $19.1 million from $16.6 million, an increase of $2.5 million or 16%. This increase was primarily due to the increase in outstanding borrowings, including debt issued to pay $15.0 million of accrued dividends on the Company’s preferred stock and interest on the $50.0 million of qualified subordinated debt issued in exchange for the Company’s outstanding preferred stock and remaining accrued dividends during May 2003.
LOSS ON EARLY EXTINGUISHMENT OF DEBT. Loss on early extinguishments of debt is related to the $3.0 million premium paid to the holders of the Company’s 9 ¼% Notes due 2005 (the “Notes”), which were tendered or called during the three month period ended June 30, 2003, and due to a $1.3 million write-off of unamortized deferred debt issuance costs related to the tendered and called Notes.
LOSS ON DISPOSAL OF ASSETS. During May 2004, the Company opened a new nightclub called Body English. This club replaced Baby’s Nightclub. The loss included approximately $2.6 million of building improvement and equipment costs.
INCOME TAXES. The Company has recorded a tax benefit of $0.1 million in the year ended December 31, 2003 due to an adjustment of its deferred tax assets. The Company did not have any income tax expense during the year ended December 31, 2004 due to being able to offset 100% of its income with net operating loss carryforwards from previous periods against which a valuation allowance has been placed.
NET INCOME APPLICABLE TO COMMON SHAREHOLDERS. Net income applicable to common shareholders was $2.5 million compared to a net loss of $0.2 million during the prior year period. The increase in net results for common shareholders was due to the factors described above in addition to a $2.3 million decrease in preferred stock dividends. Preferred dividends decreased due to the replacement of the preferred stock and remaining accrued dividends with qualified subordinated debt during May 2003.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
For the year ended December 31, 2005 our principal sources of funds were cash on-hand at December 31, 2004 and cash provided by operating activities of $24.8 million. The amount of cash provided by operating activities primarily includes net income of $14.0 million, depreciation and amortization of $12.0 million, provision for losses on accounts receivable of $0.5 million, amortization of loan fees of $0.5 million, loss on disposal of asset of $0.6 million and loss on early extinguishment of debt of $1.2 million. Other uses of funds were capital expenditures of $9.6 million, a decrease of $0.1 million in construction payables, a $0.1 million increase in other assets, $32.6 million principal payments on outstanding debt, $1.2 million in premium paid on early debt retirement and a $4.0 million net change in operating assets and liabilities. Other sources of funds were $17.0 million in proceeds from borrowings. As a result, as of December 31, 2005, we had cash and cash equivalents of $8.9 million.
During January 2005, the Company entered into an agreement to install a new hotel reservation system. Total costs of the project were approximately $0.7 million all of which has been paid in cash as of December 31, 2005.
During the year ended December 31, 2005, the Company incurred $1.6 million on potential expansion plans relating to our property as a result of the adjacent development project by HRCI. On February 21, 2006, we issued a press release announcing that we had received proposals to acquire the resort. We have determined to explore a potential sale of the resort but there is no assurance that this process will lead to a transaction. On that same date, HR Condominium Investors (Vegas), LLC (“HRCI”), an affiliate of Mr. Morton, our Chief Executive Officer, announced the suspension of its plans to build the condominium project adjacent to the resort.
We believe that our current cash balances and cash flow from operations and other sources of cash including the available borrowings under our $20.0 million Revolving Credit Facility ($2.7 million as of December 31, 2005) will be sufficient to provide operating and investing liquidity during the next 12 months. We may, however, need to raise additional funds prior to January 1, 2007.
The Company has a $0.3 million irrevocable standby letter of credit for the benefit of the State of Nevada related to the self insured portion of the Companies workers compensation insurance.
Our ability to raise additional funds is limited by restrictions on our financing activities under our Facility and the 2013 Notes. We cannot be certain that additional financing will be available to us on favorable terms when required, if at all.
Interest on the 2013 Notes is payable on each June 1 and December 1 beginning December 1, 2003. The 2013 Notes are secured by a security interest in substantially all of the Company’s existing and future assets, other than licenses which may not be pledged under applicable law. The security interest is junior to the security interest in the assets securing our obligation under our Facility and except for permitted secured purchase money indebtedness. The 2013 Notes are subject to redemption at the option of the Company, in whole or in part, at any time on or after June 1, 2008, at a premium to the face amount ($140 million) that decreases on each subsequent anniversary date, plus accrued interest to the date of redemption. The 2013 Notes contain covenants restricting or limiting the ability of the Company to, among other things, pay dividends, create liens or other encumbrances, incur additional indebtedness, issue certain preferred stock, sell or otherwise dispose of a portion of its assets, make acquisitions or merge or consolidate with another entity and enter into transactions with affiliates. The Company was in compliance with these covenants as of December 31, 2005.
The Facility contains certain covenants including, among other things, financial covenants, limitations on the Company from disposing of capital stock, entering into mergers and certain acquisitions, incurring liens or indebtedness, issuing dividends on stock, and entering into transactions with affiliates. The Company was in compliance with these covenants as of December 31, 2005. The Facility is secured by substantially all of the Company’s property at the Las Vegas site. Interest on the Facility accrues on all individual borrowings at an interest rate determined at the option of the Company, at either the LIBOR Index plus an applicable margin (not to exceed 3.5% (applicable margin was 2.50% at December 31, 2005) and aggregating 7.1% at December 31, 2005), or the Base Rate, defined as the higher of the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.5%, or the reference rate, as defined, plus an applicable margin (not to exceed 2.25%). The Company chose the LIBOR Index for all of its borrowings outstanding at December 31, 2005. These margins are dependent upon the Company’s total debt to EBITDA ratio, as defined. Interest accrued on the Base Rate borrowings is due monthly, up to the maturity date, while interest on LIBOR borrowings is due quarterly up to the maturity date. As a result of the additional time required to complete the year end closing process, the Company failed to deliver the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005 in a timely manner, and therefore was not in compliance with certain of its debt covenants. The Company has entered into an amendment and waiver agreement with the lenders. On April 14, 2006, the company received consent from the majority of the lenders which made the Company in compliance with the covenants.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements that have, or are reasonably likely to have, a current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenue or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources that is material. Currently, we have no guarantees, such as performance guarantees, keep-well agreements or indemnities. We have no derivative financial instruments.
Contractual Obligations and Commitments
We have various contractual obligations which we record as liabilities in our consolidated financial statements. We also enter into other purchase commitments and other executory contracts that are not recognized as liabilities until services are performed or goods are received. Additionally, we enter into contracts for goods and services such as food, inventory and entertainment. Such liabilities are recorded as liabilities when so incurred and we expect that such contracts will generate revenue in excess of such liabilities. The following table summarizes our contractual obligations and other commitments as of December 31, 2005 (amounts in thousands):
(1) Estimated interest payments on long-term debt are based on principal amounts outstanding at December 31, 2005, LIBOR rates (7.1% at December 31, 2005) for our bank credit facility at December 31, 2005 and assumes our Junior Notes interest payments are paid in cash at 97/8%.
We made cash interest payments on long-term debt of $16.6 million, $16.2 million and $14.7 million during the fiscal years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively. During 2005 we made estimated tax payments of $0.3 million. We did not make significant cash tax payments during 2004 and 2003, due to available net operating loss and AMT tax credit carryforwards, our 2006 tax payments are estimated to be similar to our 2005 tax payments. Total supervisory fee expenses for these services for the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003 amounted to $4.0 million, $3.0 million and $2.9 million , respectively, under the Company’s 25 year Amended and Restated Supervisory Agreement with Peter Morton. The supervisory fee is equal to two percent of annual gross revenues (as defined), net of complimentaries for each year.
As we have previously disclosed, on December 24, 2004, PM Realty LLC (a development entity involved in the condominium project and owned by Mr. Morton) and the Company entered into a lease for a ten year initial term with Mr. Chow of Las Vegas, LLC (“Mr. Chow”) for commercial space anticipated to be developed on land contiguous to the resort. The lease provides that if ground-breaking work on such development has not been commenced or all necessary permits to construct such development have not been received, in each case on or before June 1, 2006, Mr. Chow may elect to terminate such lease and receive a lease termination fee of $250,000.
Our ability to service our contractual obligations and commitments will be dependent on our future performance, which will be affected by, among other things, prevailing economic conditions and financial, business and other factors, certain of which are beyond our control.
The Company is a defendant in various lawsuits relating to routine matters incidental to its business. Management provides an accrual for estimated losses that may occur and does not believe that the outcome of any pending claims or litigation, in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or liquidity.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Our preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent liabilities during the reporting period. Management periodically evaluates its policies, estimates and assumptions related to these policies.
The Company operates in a highly regulated industry and we are subject to regulations that describe and regulate operating and internal control procedures. The majority of our casino revenue is counted in the form of cash, personal checks and gaming chips and tokens, which by their nature do not require significant or complex estimation procedures.
Significant estimates include the useful lives and potential impairment of long-term assets, such as buildings and equipment, valuation allowances for deferred tax assets, the adequacy of our allowance for uncollectible receivables, the amount of litigation and self-insurance reserves, amount of chips and tokens not likely to be redeemed, and the estimated liabilities for our slot cash-back programs. The estimated amounts are based on our best judgments using both historical information and known trends in our Company and in our industry and based upon our assumptions related to possible outcomes in the future. Because of the uncertainty inherent in any estimate, it is likely that the actual results will differ from the initial estimates, and the differences could be material.
The Company has determined that the following accounting policies and related estimates are critical to the preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statements (a further discussion of our significant accounting policies can be found in the Notes to Financial Statements contained herein).
Long-term Assets.
The Company has a significant investment in long-lived property and equipment. The Company reviews the carrying value of property and equipment to be held and used for impairment whenever events and circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an asset may not be recoverable from the estimated future undiscounted cash flows of the asset. If the undiscounted cash flows are less than the carrying value, an impairment loss is recognized equal to the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the fair value of the asset. For assets to be disposed of, the Company recognizes the asset to be sold at the lower of carrying value or fair value less costs of disposal.
Income Taxes.
We utilize estimates related to cash flow projections for the application of SFAS 109 to the realization of deferred income tax assets. Our estimates are based upon recent operating results and budgets for future operating results. These estimates are made using assumptions about the economic, social and regulatory environments in which we operate. These estimates could be negatively impacted by numerous unforeseen events including changes to regulations affecting how we operate our business, changes in the labor market or economic downturns in the areas where we operate.
Allowance for Uncollectible Receivables.
The Company maintains a provision for estimated uncollectible receivables based on historical experience and specific customer collection issues. Change in customer liquidity or financial condition could affect the collectibility of that account resulting in the adjustment upward or downward in the provision for bad debts, with a corresponding impact on the Company’s operating results.
Contingencies.
The Company assesses its exposures to loss contingencies including legal and income tax matters and provides for an exposure if it is judged to be probable and estimable. If the actual loss from a contingency differs from management’s estimate, operating results could be impacted.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In December 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 123(R), “Share Based Payment.” This statement is a revision of SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation” and supercedes APB Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,” and related interpretations. SFAS No. 123(R) establishes standards for the accounting for transactions in which an entity exchanges its equity instruments for goods and services or incurs a liability in exchange for goods and services that are based on the fair value of the entity’s equity instruments or that may be settled by the issuance of those equity instruments. It requires an entity to measure the costs of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant-date fair value of the award and recognize that cost over the service period. The Company will adopt this statement. The Company does not anticipate that adoption of this statement will have a material impact on its financial position or results of operations.
In March 2005, the SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulleting (“SAB”) No. 107, “Share-Based Payment “ to provide interpretive guidance on SFAS No. 123(R) valuation methods, assumptions used in valuation models, and the interaction of SFAS No. 123(R) with existing SEC guidance. SAB No. 107 also requires the classification of stock compensation expense in the same financial statement line items as cash compensation. The Company does not anticipate that adoption of this statement will have a material impact on its financial position or results of operations.
In December 2004, the FASB issued SFAS No. 151, “Inventory Costs, an amendment of ARB No. 43, Chapter 4.” This statement amends the guidance in ARB No. 43, Chapter 4, “Inventory Pricing” to clarify the accounting for abnormal amounts of idle facility expense, freight, handling costs, and wasted material (spoilage). Paragraph 5 of ARB 43, Chapter 4, previously stated, that “under some circumstances, items such as idle facility expense, excessive spoilage, double freight, and rehandling costs may be so abnormal as to require treatment as current period charges.” This statement requires that those items be recognized as current-period charges regardless of whether they meet the criterion of “so abnormal.” In addition, this statement requires that allocation of the fixed production overheads to the costs of conversion be based on the normal capacity of the production facilities. This statement is effective for fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2005. Accordingly, the Company will adopt its provisions effective January 1, 2006. The Company does not anticipate that adoption of this statement will have a material impact on its financial position or results of operations.
In December 2004, the FASB issued SFAS No. 153, “Exchanges of Nonmonetary Assets, an amendment of APB Opinion No. 29.” The guidance in APB Opinion No. 29, “Accounting for Nonmonetary Transactions,” is based on the principle that exchanges of nonmonetary assets should be measured based on the fair value of the assets exchanged. The guidance in that Opinion, however, included certain exceptions to that principle. This Statement amends Opinion 29 to eliminate the exception for nonmonetary exchanges of similar productive assets and replaces it with a general exception for exchanges of nonmonetary assets that do not have commercial substance. A nonmonetary exchange has commercial substance if the future cash flows of the entity are expected to change significantly as a result of the exchange. Adoption of this statement on July 1, 2005, did not have a material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.
In March 2005, FASB issued FIN No. 47, “Accounting for Conditional Asset Retirement Obligations”. FIN No. 47 clarifies that the term conditional asset retirement obligation as used in SFAS No. 143, “Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations,” refers to a legal obligation to perform an asset retirement activity in which the timing and (or) method of settlement are conditional on a future event that may or may not be within the control of the entity. FIN 47 also clarifies when an entity would have sufficient information to reasonably estimate the fair value of an asset retirement obligation. FIN 47 is effective December 31, 2005. The adoption of FIN 47 did not have a material effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.
ITEM 7A.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Market risks relating to our operations result primarily from changes in short-term interest rates. We do not have any foreign exchange or other significant market risk. We did not have any derivative financial instruments at December 31, 2005.
Our exposure to market risk for changes in interest rates relates primarily to our current Facility. In accordance with the Facility, we enter into variable rate debt obligations to support general corporate purposes, including capital expenditures and working capital needs. We continuously evaluate our level of variable rate debt with respect to total debt and other factors, including assessment of the current and future economic environment.
We had $17.0 million in variable rate debt outstanding at December 31, 2005. Based upon the variable rate debt level, a hypothetical 10% adverse change in the effective interest rate (approximately a 71 basis point increase) would increase interest expense by approximately $0.1 million on an annual basis, and likewise decrease our earnings and cash flows. We cannot predict market fluctuations in interest rates and their impact on our variable rate debt, nor can there be any assurance that fixed rate long-term debt will be available to us at favorable rates, if at all. Consequently, future results may differ materially from the estimated adverse changes discussed above.
The fair value of the Company’s $140 million of 8.875% Second Lien Notes, which are due in 2013 and are publicly traded, approximated $149.8 million at December 31, 2005 based on published bid prices. The fair value of the Company’s $36.5 million of Qualified Subordinated Junior Notes cannot be estimated as they are held by Mr. Morton or affiliates of Mr. Morton and there is no established market nor published bid prices.
ITEM 8.
ITEM 8.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
See the Index to Financial Statements beginning on page.
ITEM 9.
ITEM 9.
CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.
ITEM 9A.
ITEM 9A.
Controls and Procedures.
(a) Disclosure Controls and Procedures. Our Chief Executive Officer (principal executive officer) and Chief Financial Officer (principal financial officer) have concluded that the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of December 31, 2005. This conclusion is based on an evaluation conducted under the supervision and with the participation of Company management. Disclosure controls and procedures are those controls and procedures which ensure that information required to be disclosed in this filing is accumulated and communicated to management and is recorded, processed, summarized and reported in a timely manner and in accordance with Securities and Exchange Commission rules and regulations.
(b) Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. There have not been any changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the fiscal quarter to which this report relates that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
ITEM 9B.
ITEM 9B.
OTHER INFORMATION
None.
PART III
ITEM 10.
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
The following table sets forth the name, age and position of each of our directors and executive officers:
PETER A. MORTON. Mr. Morton has been our Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer since our formation and Secretary since December 1997. Prior to June 1996, Mr. Morton was the President and Chief Executive Officer of Hard Rock America. Mr. Morton, a third generation restaurateur, co-founded the London Hard Rock Cafe in 1971, at the age of 23. He also opened Morton’s Restaurant in Los Angeles, California in 1979 and has developed Hard Rock Cafes in Aspen, Chicago, Hollywood, Honolulu, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Maui, New Orleans, Newport Beach, Phoenix, San Diego, San Francisco and Sydney. In addition, Mr. Morton has developed the following restaurants: Great American Disaster, London, England (1970); and Morton’s Bar and Grill, London, England (1975). Mr. Morton sits on the Board of Trustees of the Natural Resources Defense Council.
KEVIN L. KELLEY. On January 30, 2003, Mr. Kelley was appointed to the position of President and Chief Operating Officer of the Company. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Kelley served Station Casinos in various capacities from August 1993 to January 2003 including the position President of Westside Operations overseeing all operations of Station Casinos five Westside properties. Prior to his joining Station Casinos, Mr. Kelley served as Executive Vice President of International Casino Marketing for the Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino and as Vice President of International Casino Marketing at the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel and Casino.
BRIAN D. OGAZ. On December 31, 2001, Brian Ogaz was appointed to the position of Senior Vice President of the Company. Since 1986, Mr. Ogaz has held various positions for several companies controlled by Peter Morton. Mr. Ogaz held the position of Vice President of Finance of Hard Rock Café America and related entities from 1986 to 1996. Prior to 1986, he was employed as Chief Financial Officer of Kings Road Entertainment for one year and as an accountant for Ernst & Whinney for three years.
JAMES D. BOWEN. During the month of April 2000, Mr. Bowen was appointed to the position of Vice President Finance, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of the Company. Mr. Bowen held the position of Vice President Finance for Lady Luck Gaming Corp. from 1995 to 2000. Prior to 1995, he worked for five years for KPMG, LLC, two years for the Dunes Hotel, Casino and Country Club and five years for Arthur Andersen, LLP.
GILBERT B. FRIESEN. Mr. Friesen has been a Director since December 1997. Currently, Mr. Friesen is a private investor. From 1994 to 1997, he was Chairman of the Board of Classic Sports Network. Prior to 1994 he was a private investor.
STEPHEN A. MARKS. Mr. Marks has been a Director since December 1997. He is the founder of French Connection Group plc, an international fashion company listed on the London Stock Exchange, and has been its Chief Executive Officer and a Director since its formation in 1969.
Harry Morton, son of Peter Morton, was compensated $221,000 for his role as Special Projects Director by the Company. The Company also provided housing at the resort with estimated value of $31,000.
Given the ownership of the Company and the financial experience and business acumen of the directors serving on the Board of Directors, the Board of Directors has determined not to appoint a new director that meets the qualifications of an “audit committee financial expert” as defined under Item 401(h) of Regulation S-K.
Given ownership and management of the Company, the Board of Directors has determined that it is not necessary to adopt a code of ethics at this time.
ITEM 11.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Our directors receive no compensation for serving on the Board of Directors. All directors are reimbursed for expenses incurred in connection with attendance at board or committee meetings.
The following table sets forth the compensation we paid to our Chief Executive Officer, and our only three other executive officers for fiscal years 2005, 2004 and 2003.
(1) Amounts shown include amounts vested under 1999 Performance Awards Plan and contributions made by us to the Hard Rock 401(k) Plan. Other compensation consists of contributions made by us to insurance premiums on term life and health insurance and medical reimbursements and is less than 10% of each person’s salary for any given year.
(2) Mr. Morton received his compensation in the form of a supervisory fee. See “Employment Agreements.” A portion of the supervisory fee was paid directly to the 510 Development Corporation, a corporation owned 100% by Mr. Morton.
(3) Our Board of Directors appointed Mr. Ogaz as Senior Vice President on December 31, 2001. Mr. Ogaz is paid directly by 510 Development Corporation. The amounts included herein represent the portion of Mr. Ogaz’s compensation reimbursed by the Company to 510 Development.
(4) Our Board of Directors appointed Mr. Kelley as President and Chief Operating Officer on January 20, 2003.
The following table sets forth the long-term incentive plan awards under the Company’s 1999 Performance Awards Plan during the year ended December 31, 2005.
(1) The award vests 25% each March 31 beginning March 31, 2004.
(2) Target amount is based on the the increase in 2005 adjusted EBITDA over 2003 amounts as future adjusted EBITDA is not determinable.
(3) Vested amounts appreciate or depreciate based on the change in adjusted EBITDA each year but may not decrease below the base award amount during the initial 4 year vesting period.
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS
Mr. Morton has entered into an amended and restated supervisory agreement with us, which expires on December 31, 2022 (the “Supervisory Agreement”). Mr. Morton has the option to renew the Supervisory Agreement for two successive fifteen year terms. Pursuant to the terms of the Supervisory Agreement, Mr. Morton is to provide consulting and supervisory services to us in exchange for 2.0% of our annual gross revenues (as defined therein), which excludes the value of any complimentary goods or services. Such payments will be subordinated to our debt. We will reimburse Mr. Morton for all costs and expenses incurred by him in connection with services provided to us. In the event either we are or Mr. Morton is in Default (as defined in the Supervisory Agreement), the non-defaulting party may terminate the Supervisory Agreement after the other party has received the opportunity to cure such default.
Mr. Bowen has entered into an employment agreement, dated November 8, 2000, and amended as of September 7, 2001 and December 16, 2004. Mr. Bowen will serve as Vice President Finance, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of the Company. Mr. Bowen’s current base salary is $240,000 per year and he is entitled to an annual bonus to be determined by our Board of Directors. If Mr. Bowen is terminated by us without Cause (as defined in the agreement), we will pay Mr. Bowen an amount representing one year of his then current base salary plus an amount equal to the average of the immediately preceding three (3) year’s annual bonuses paid to Mr. Bowen, but in no case shall such payment be less than $325,000. In addition, Mr. Bowen shall be entitled to be paid any amounts deferred or owed under any deferred compensation plan and be entitled to be paid at a minimum a pro-rata
share of any amounts that would have otherwise been due to Mr. Bowen under any deferred bonus plan. Additionally, in the event of a Change in Control (as defined in the agreement) of the Company and if within thirty (30) days after the Change in Control Mr. Bowen tenders his resignation in conformity with Article 7.3 of the agreement, Mr. Bowen shall be entitled to be paid a lump sum termination fee to Mr. Bowen in an amount equal to the greater of (i) Six-Hundred and Fifty Thousand Dollars ($650,000.00) or (ii) twenty-four (24) months of Mr. Bowen’s base salary rate immediately prior to such termination plus an amount equal to two (2) times the average of the immediately preceding three (3) year’s annual bonuses paid to Mr. Bowen. In addition, Mr. Bowen shall be entitled to be paid any amounts deferred or owed under any deferred compensation plan and be paid at a minimum a pro-rata share of any amounts that would have otherwise been due to Mr. Bowen under any deferred bonus plan.
Mr. Kelley, our President and Chief Operating Officer, entered into a three year employment agreement with the Company, dated as of June 19, 2003. Mr. Kelley will serve in the capacity of President and Chief Operating Officer of the Company. Mr. Kelley’s current base salary is $425,000 per year and he is entitled to an annual bonus to be determined by our Board of Directors. If Mr. Kelley is terminated by us without Cause (as defined in the agreement), we will pay Mr. Kelley an amount representing one year base salary or $250,000, in the event such termination occurs in the last eight months of the contract term. Mr. Kelley shall also be entitled to an amount representing three (3) years of his then current base salary if he voluntarily terminates his employment within thirty days following a change of control of the Company.
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION
We did not have a Compensation Committee during 2005. Messrs. Morton and Kelley each participated in the determination of officers’ compensation during 2005.
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
During 2005, the supervisory fee of Mr. Morton, our Chief Executive Officer, was determined in accordance with his amended and restated supervisory agreement. See “Employment Agreements.”
The salary we paid to Mr. Kelley, our Chief Operating Officer, was paid in accordance with the terms of his employment agreement. In addition, the salary we paid to Mr. Bowen, our Chief Financial Officer, was paid in accordance with his amended employment agreement. See “Employment Agreements.”
The annual salaries and bonuses, as applicable, of our executive officers during 2005 were determined based on past salaries and bonuses and salaries and bonuses paid by comparable companies. Factors considered in determining bonuses included our 2005 net revenues and net income.
The Board of Directors:
Peter A. Morton, Chairman of the Board
Gilbert B. Friesen
Stephen A. Marks
INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
Chapter 78 of the Nevada Revised Statutes (the “NRS”), Article SIXTH of our Articles of Incorporation and Article VII of our Bylaws contain provisions for indemnification of our directors and officers. The Bylaws require us to indemnify such persons to the fullest extent permitted by Nevada law. Each person will be indemnified in any proceeding if he acted in good faith and in a manner which he reasonably believed to be in, or not opposed to, our best interests, and with respect to any criminal proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe, was unlawful. Indemnification would cover expenses reasonably incurred, including attorneys’ fees, judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement. Our Bylaws provide that our Board of Directors may cause us to purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of any present or past director or officer insuring against any liability asserted against such person incurred in the capacity of director or officer or arising out of such status, regardless of whether we would have the power to indemnify such person.
In addition, we have, with the approval of the stockholders, entered into an Indemnification Agreement with each of our directors. These agreements will require us to indemnify any director, to the fullest extent permitted by law, who is or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, or any inquiry or investigation (including discovery), whether conducted by us or any other party, that such director in good faith believes might lead to the institution of any action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative, investigative or other by reason of (or arising in part out of) any event or occurrence related to the fact that such director is or was our director, officer, employee, agent or fiduciary, or is or was serving at our request as a director, officer, employee, trustee, agent or fiduciary of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, employee benefit plan, trust or other enterprise, or by reason of anything done or not done by such director in any such capacity.
Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to directors, officers or persons controlling us pursuant to the foregoing provisions, we have been informed that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission, such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is therefore unenforceable.
We have included in our Articles of Incorporation a provision that limits personal liability for breach of the fiduciary duty of its directors or officers, except for liability for acts or omissions involving intentional misconduct, fraud or a knowing violation of law and liability based on payments of improper dividends.
ITEM 12.
ITEM 12.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The following table sets forth certain information with regard to the beneficial ownership of our common stock as of the date of this Report by (i) each person who, to the knowledge of management, owned beneficially more than 5% of the outstanding shares of common stock, (ii) by each director and Named Executive Officer and (iii) all directors and executive officers as a group. Except pursuant to applicable community property laws, each stockholder named in the table has sole voting and dispositive power with respect to the shares shown as beneficially owned by them. Percentage ownership is based on 12,000 shares of Class A common stock and 64,023 shares of Class B common stock outstanding:
* Indicates ownership of less than 1%.
(1) For purposes of this table, a person or group of persons is deemed to have “beneficial ownership” of any shares as of a given date such person has the right to acquire within 60 days after such date. For purposes of computing the percentage of outstanding shares held by each person or group of persons named above on a given date, any security which such person or persons has the right to acquire within 60 days after such date is deemed to be outstanding, but is not deemed to be outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage of ownership of any other person. Unless otherwise indicated, the address for each of the stockholders in this table is 4455 Paradise Road, Las Vegas, Nevada 89109.
(2) Includes: (a) 12,000 shares of Class A common stock held by Lily Pond Investments, Inc.; and (b) 59,487 shares of Class B common stock held by Lily Pond. As the holder of all the voting shares of Lily Pond, Mr. Morton is deemed to have sole voting and dispositive power with respect to the shares held by Lily Pond.
ITEM 13.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
TRANSACTIONS RELATED TO THE “HARD ROCK” BRAND NAME
Prior to the sale to Rank of Mr. Morton’s interest in the Hard Rock Cafe businesses and ancillary rights in June 1996, Hard Rock Cafe Licensing Corporation, which was 40.0% owned by Mr. Morton, owned the right to use the “Hard Rock” name in connection with hotel casinos and casinos in the Morton Territory. Hard Rock Cafe Licensing Corporation licensed this right to Mr. Morton, who in turn sublicensed the right to use the “Hard Rock Hotel” trademark in Las Vegas to Lily Pond Investments, Inc., or Lily Pond, and Lily Pond assigned such right to us.
Upon the sale of his interest in the Hard Rock Cafes to Rank in June 1996, Mr. Morton and Rank entered into a trademark licensing agreement whereby Mr. Morton received an exclusive, perpetual, royalty-free license, subject to certain termination provisions designed to protect the quality of the trademarks, to use the “Hard Rock Hotel” and “Hard Rock Casino” trademarks in connection with hotel casinos and casinos in areas of the United States west of the Mississippi River plus Illinois and Louisiana, but excluding Texas (other than Houston), and in Australia, Brazil, Israel, Venezuela and metropolitan Vancouver, British Columbia. Mr. Morton in turn entered into a sublicensing agreement with us in which the Company obtained the exclusive right, subject to certain termination provisions designed to protect the quality of the trademarks, to use the “Hard Rock Hotel” and “Hard Rock Casino” trademarks in connection with the resort for a term lasting as long as the Company shall have any outstanding indebtedness pursuant to the then existing notes or our then existing credit facility. The Company entered into an amendment to the sublicensing agreement with Mr. Morton whereby the term of our use of such right was extended to the earlier of June 1, 2018 or the repayment in full of the of 8 7/8% Second Lien Notes due 2013.
TRANSACTIONS WITH DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
We have entered into an amended and restated supervisory agreement with Mr. Morton that expires on December 31, 2022. Subject to certain conditions, Mr. Morton has the option to renew the agreement for two successive fifteen year terms. Pursuant to the terms of the supervisory agreement, Mr. Morton is to provide consulting and supervisory services to us in exchange for 2.0% of our annual gross revenues (as defined therein), which excludes the value of any complimentary goods or services. We will reimburse Mr. Morton for all costs and expenses incurred by him in connection with services he provides to us. In the event either we are or Mr. Morton is in Default (as defined in the agreement), the non-defaulting party may terminate the agreement after the other party has received the opportunity to cure such default. Total supervisory fee expenses for fiscal year 2005 were approximately $4.0 million.
Entities controlled by Mr. Morton have provided, and will continue to provide, additional support services for the development, opening and ongoing improvement and operation of the resort. These entities have been, and will continue to be, reimbursed for the expenses relating to the provision of these services, including, without limitation, employee salary and benefits and allocated overhead. On August 15, 2005, the Company entered a Commercial Sublease with 510 Development, the Company pays $20,000 a month for this lease which expires December 31, 2009. The expense associated with this lease has always been part of the allocated overhead which is reimbursed by the Company. Expenses related to these services aggregated approximately $2.7 million for fiscal year 2005. The Company also reimbursed this entity $0.7 million for lease hold improvements which the Company capitalized in the year ended December 31, 2005.
For certain additional disclosure regarding affiliate transactions see note 7 to our Financial Statements.
ITEM 14.
ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
Audit Fees
Audit fees paid by the Company to Deloitte & Touche LLP during the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2004 for the audits of our annual financial statements and the review of the financial statements included in our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q totaled approximately $111,000 and $84,000, respectively.
Audit-Related Fees
Audit-related fees paid by the Company to Deloitte & Touche LLP during the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2004 for the audit of the Company’s 401k Plan totaled $18,000 and $9,000, respectively.
Tax Fees
Fees paid by the Company to Deloitte & Touche LLP during the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2004 for tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning services rendered to us totaled $20,000 and $33,000, respectively.
All Other Fees
The Company paid Deloitte & Touche LLP $14,000 and $9,000 to provide regulatory compliance services during the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively.
The Company’s Board of Directors currently has no audit and non-audit pre-approval policies and procedures.
PART IV
ITEM 15.
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
(a) The following documents are filed as part of this report:
Financial Statements; see Index to Financial Statements beginning on Page.
(b) Financial Statements Schedules.
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Years Ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003.
We have omitted schedules other than the one listed above because they are not required or are not applicable, or the required information is shown in the financial statements or notes to the financial statements.
(c) The following Exhibits are filed as part of this report:
EXHIBIT
NUMBER
DESCRIPTION
3.
CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION AND BY-LAWS
(1)3.1
Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company.
(2)3.2
Certificate of Amendment of Second Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation.
(1)3.3
Second Amended and Restated By-Laws of the Company
4.
INSTRUMENTS DEFINING THE RIGHT OF SECURITY HOLDERS, INCLUDING INDENTURES.
(5)4.1
Indenture dated as of May 30, 2003, by and between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, relating to the 8 7/8% Second Lien Notes due 2013.
(5)4.2
Form of Global 8 7/8% Second Lien Notes due 2013 (included in Exhibit 4.1)
(5)4.3
Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of May 30, 2003, by and between the Company and Banc of America Securities LLC, as representative of the Initial Purchasers.
(5)4.4
Intercreditor Agreement, dated as of May 30, 2003, among the Company, U.S. Bank, N.A. and Bank of America, N.A.
(5)4.5
Form of Junior Subordinated Notes.
(7)4.6
First Supplemental Indenture to Indenture, dated as of November 20, 2003, by and between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, relating to the 87/8% Second Lien Notes due 2013.
(7)4.7
Second Supplemental Indenture to Indenture, dated as of November 24, 2003, by and between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, relating to the 87/8% Second Lien Notes due 2013.
9.
VOTING TRUST AGREEMENTS.
(1)9.1
Amendment, dated as of July 1, 1997 to Stockholder Agreement, dated August 30, 1993, among the Company and certain stockholders listed therein.
(1)9.2
Stockholder Agreement, dated as of August 30, 1993, among the Company and certain stockholders listed there in.
10.
MATERIAL CONTRACTS.
(5)10.1
Credit Agreement, dated as of May 30, 2003, between the Company, Bank of America, N.A. and the lenders referred to therein.
(5)10.2
Second Lien Notes Security Agreement, dated as of May 30, 2003, between the Company and U.S. Bank, N.A.
(5)10.3
Second Lien Notes Trademark Security Interest Assignment, dated as of May 30, 2003, between the Company and U.S. Bank, N.A.
(5)10.4
Second Lien Notes Copyright Security Interest Assignment, dated as of May 30, 2003, between the Company and U.S. Bank, N.A.
(5)10.5
Exchange Agreement, dated as of May 30, 2003, between the Company, Peter A. Morton and Desert Rock, Inc.
(1)10.6
Amended and Restated Supervisory Agreement, dated as of October 21, 1997, between the Company and Peter A. Morton.
(3)10.7
Employment Agreement, dated November 8, 2000, between the Company and James D. Bowen.
(4)10.8
Amendment to Employment Agreement, dated September 7, 2001, between the Company and James D. Bowen.
(1)10.9
Trademark Sublicense Agreement, dated October 24, 1997, between the Company and Peter A. Morton.
(1)10.10
Amendment No. 1 to Trademark Sublicense Agreement, dated as of March 23, 1998, between the Company and Peter A. Morton.
(5)10.11
Amendment No. 2 to Trademark Sublicense Agreement, dated as of May 30, 2003, between the Company and Peter A. Morton.
(5)10.12
Security Agreement, dated as of May 30, 2003, between the Company, Bank of America, N.A. and the lenders referred to therein.
(5)10.13
Trademark Security Interest Assignment, dated as of May 30, 2003, between the Company and Bank of America, N.A.
(5)10.14
Copyright Security Interest Assignment, dated as of May 30, 2003, between the Company and Bank of America, N.A.
(5)10.15
Form of Hard Rock Hotel, Inc. 1999 Performance Awards Plan
(6)10.16
Employment Agreement, dated June 19, 2003, between the Company and Kevin Kelley
10.17
Second Amendment to Employment Agreement, dated September 7, 2001, between the Company and James D. Bowen.
(8)10.18
Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of September 17, 2004, between the Company and Bank of America Securities, LLC.
(9)10.19
Lease by and between the Company, PM Realty, LLC and Mr. Chow of Las Vegas, LLC dated December 24, 2004.
10.20
Commercial Sublease dated August 15, 2005, between the Company and 510 Development Corporation.
10.21
Agreement dated April 12, 2006 between the Company and Peter Morton.
12.
RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES.
12.1
Statement regarding the computation of ratio of earnings to fixed charges for the Company.
24.
POWERS OF ATTORNEY.
24.1
Power of Attorney (included in signature page).
31.
CERTIFICATIONS.
31.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
(1) Incorporated by reference to designated exhibit to our Registration Statement on Form S-4, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 21, 1998 (File No. 333- 53211).
(2) Incorporated by reference to designated exhibit to our Report on Form 10-Q, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the quarter ended August 31, 1999 (File No. 333-53211).
(3) Incorporated by reference to designated exhibit to our Report on Form 10-Q, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the quarter ended September 30, 2000 (File No. 333-53211).
(4) Incorporated by reference to designated exhibit to our Report on Form 10-Q, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the quarter ended September 30, 2001 (File No. 333-53211).
(5) Incorporated by reference to designated exhibit to our Registration Statement on Form S-4, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 8, 2003 (File No. 333- 106863).
(6) Incorporated by reference to designated exhibit to our Report on Form 10-Q, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the quarter ended June 30, 2003 (File No. 333-53211).
(7) Incorporated by reference to designated exhibit to our Registration Statement on Amendment No. 1 to Form S-4, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 26, 2003 (File No. 333- 106863).
(8) Incorporated by reference to designated exhibit to our Report on Form 10-Q, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the quarter ended September 30, 2004 (File No. 333-53211).
(9) Incorporated by reference to designated exhibit to our Report on Form 10-Q, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the quarter ended March 31, 2005 (File No. 333-53211).
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT FOR PURPOSES OF THE “SAFE HARBOR” PROVISIONS OF THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995
This document includes various “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Sections 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which represent the Company’s expectations or beliefs concerning future events. Statements containing expressions such as “believes,” “anticipates” or “expects” used in the our press releases and periodic reports on Forms 10-K and 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission are intended to identify forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Although we believe our expectations are based upon reasonable assumptions within the bounds of our knowledge of our business and operations, there can be no assurances that actual results will not materially differ from expected results. We caution that these and similar statements included in this report and in previously filed periodic
reports, including reports filed on Forms 10-K and 10-Q, are further qualified by important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, without limitation, the following: increased competition in existing markets or the opening of new gaming jurisdictions; a decline in the public acceptance of gaming; the limitation, conditioning or suspension of any of the our gaming licenses; increases in or new taxes imposed on gaming revenues or gaming devices; a finding of unsuitability by regulatory authorities with respect to the our officers, directors or key employees; loss or retirement of key executives; significant increases in fuel or transportation prices; adverse economic conditions in the our key markets; disruption in air travel and severe and unusual weather in the our key markets; and adverse results of significant litigation matters. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date thereof. We undertake no obligation to publicly release any revisions to such forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof. See “Business-Risk Factors.”
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Act of 1934, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized this 17 day of April 2006.
We, the undersigned officers and directors of Hard Rock Hotel, Inc., hereby severally constitute James D. Bowen and Brian Ogaz and each of them singly, our true and lawful attorneys with full power to them, and each of them singly, to sign for us and in our names in the capacities indicated below, any and all amendments to this Annual Report on Form 10-K, and generally do all such things in our name and behalf in such capacities to enable Hard Rock Hotel, Inc. to comply with the applicable provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and all requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission, and we hereby ratify and confirm our signatures as they may be signed by our said attorneys, or either of them, to any and all such amendments. Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, this report has been signed by the following persons on behalf of the registrant in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
HARD ROCK HOTEL, INC.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2005 and 2004
Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003
Statements of Shareholders’ Deficiency for the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003
Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003
Notes to Financial Statements
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The Board of Directors and Shareholders of
Hard Rock Hotel, Inc.
We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of Hard Rock Hotel, Inc. (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2005 and 2004, and the related statements of operations, shareholders’ deficiency, and cash flows for the three years in the period ended December 31, 2005. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule listed in each of the index at Item 15(b). These financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the auditing standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, 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, such financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Hard Rock Hotel, Inc., at December 31, 2005 and 2004, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2005, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, the financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.
Deloitte & Touche LLP
Las Vegas, Nevada
April 17, 2006
HARD ROCK HOTEL, INC.
BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ DEFICIENCY
(in thousands, except share amounts)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands, except supplemental information)
Supplemental Information about Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities:
In conjunction with the issuance of $140,000,000 of Second Lien Notes and a $40,000,000 Senior Secured Credit Facility (of which the $20,000,000 Revolving Credit Facility portion was not drawn upon as of December 31, 2004) during May 2003, issuance costs of $2,450,000 and $567,000, respectively, were withheld from the proceeds therefrom.
During May 2003, the Company issued $50,037,000 of Qualified Subordinated Notes to related parties and redeemed and retired the 9 1/4% Series A Cumulative Preferred Stock and the 9 1/4% Series B Cumulative Preferred Stock.
The Company purchased $432,000 of equipment in exchange for indebtedness for the year ended December 31, 2003.
For the year ended December 31, 2005 and 2004 the Company increased debt for interest in kind of $2.8 million and $3.0 million, respectively.
Loss on early extinguishment of debt in 2003 is related to a $3.0 million premium paid to the holders of the Company’s
9 1/4% Notes due 2005 which were refinanced during the second quarter of 2003 and due to a $1.3 million write-off of unamortized deferred debt issuance costs related to the retired debt. Loss on early extinguishment of debt in 2005 is related to a $1.2 million premium paid to the holders of the Company’s Junior Notes which were retired during the fourth quarter of 2005.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Hard Rock Hotel, Inc.
Notes to Financial Statements
1. COMPANY STRUCTURE AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis Of Presentation and Nature of Business
Hard Rock Hotel, Inc. (the “Company”), a Nevada corporation incorporated on August 30, 1993, operates a hotel-casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. Lily Pond Investments, Inc. (“Lily Pond”), a Nevada corporation principally owned by Peter Morton, owns all of the voting shares and 93% of the non-voting shares of the Company. Mr. Morton has granted a sublicense to the Company, pursuant to which the Company holds the exclusive right to use the “Hard Rock Hotel” trademark for the Company’s operations in Las Vegas. These financial statements also include the development activities of its subsidiary, Pink Taco Corporation (“Pink Taco Corp.”), a Nevada corporation, (collectively the “Company”).
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand and in banks and interest-bearing deposits with maturities at the date of purchase of three months or less. Cash equivalents are carried at cost which approximates market.
Concentrations of Credit Risk
Substantially all of the Company’s accounts receivable are unsecured and are due primarily from the Company’s casino and hotel patrons and convention functions. Non-performance by these parties would result in losses up to the recorded amount of the related receivables. Management does not anticipate significant non-performance, and believes that they have adequately provided for uncollectible receivables in the Company’s allowance for doubtful accounts.
Accounts Receivable and Credit Risk
Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of casino accounts receivable. The Company issues credit in the form of “markers” to approved casino customers following investigations of creditworthiness. Business or economic conditions or other significant events could affect the collectibility of such receivables.
Accounts receivable, including casino and hotel receivables, are typically non-interest bearing and are initially recorded at cost. Accounts are written off when management deems them to be uncollectible. Recoveries of accounts previously written off are recorded when received. An estimated allowance for doubtful accounts is maintained to reduce the Company’s receivables to their carrying amount, which approximates fair value. The allowance is estimated based on specific review of customer accounts as well as management’s experience with collection trends in the casino industry and current economic and business conditions.
Pre-Opening Costs and Expenses
Pre-opening costs incurred during 2005 in connection with the Company’s pursuit of another casino in California were charged to expense as incurred. Pre-opening costs incurred during 2004 in connection with the opening of the Company’s nightclub called Body English were charged to expense as incurred. Pre-opening costs incurred during 2003 in connection with the opening of the Company’s lingerie store, Love Jones, and a 4,500 “mega-suite” were charged to expense as incurred.
Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (determined using the first-in, first-out method), or market.
Depreciation and Amortization
Land improvements, buildings and improvements, equipment, furniture and fixtures, and memorabilia are recorded at cost. The Company capitalizes interest on funds dispersed during the active construction. Depreciation and amortization are computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives for financial reporting purposes and accelerated methods for income tax purposes. Estimated useful lives for financial reporting purposes are as follows:
Gains or losses arising from dispositions are reported as other income or expense. Costs of major improvements are capitalized, while costs of normal repairs and maintenance are charged to expense as incurred.
Substantially all property and equipment is pledged as collateral for long-term debt.
Long-term Assets
The Company has a significant investment in long-lived property and equipment. The Company reviews the carrying value of property and equipment to be held and used for impairment whenever events and circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an asset may not be recoverable from the estimated future undiscounted cash flows of the asset. If the undiscounted cash flows are less than the carrying value, an impairment loss is recognized equal to the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the fair value of the asset. For assets to be disposed of, the Company recognizes the asset to be sold at the lower of carrying value or fair value less costs of disposal.
Advertising Costs
The Company expenses the costs of all advertising campaigns and promotions as they are incurred. Total advertising expenses for the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003 amounted to approximately $2.4 million, $1.8 million and $2.1 million, respectively. These expenses are included in marketing expenses in the accompanying statements of operations.
Interest Expense
Interest expense is shown net of capitalized interest of $126,000 and $100,000 for the years ended December 31, 2004 and 2003, respectively.
Capitalized Interest
The interest cost associated with major development and construction projects is capitalized. Interest capitalization ceases once a project is substantially complete or no longer undergoing construction activities to prepare it for its intended use. When no debt is specifically identified as being incurred in connection with a construction project, the Company capitalizes interest on amounts expended on the project at 8 7/8%, which is the rate on our bonds. Interest of $126,000 and $100,000 was capitalized for the years ended December 31, 2004 and 2003, respectively.
Income Taxes
The Company accounts for income taxes using the asset and liability approach required by SFAS 109. The asset and liability approach requires the recognition of deferred tax liabilities and assets for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the carrying amounts and the tax bases of the Company’s assets and liabilities. Future tax benefits attributable to temporary differences are recognized to the extent that realization of such benefits is more likely than not. These future tax benefits are measured by applying currently enacted tax rates. Additionally, deferred income tax assets and liabilities are separated into current and non-current amounts based on the classification of the related assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes.
Casino Revenues and Complimentaries
Casino revenues are derived from patrons wagering on table games, slot machines, sporting events and races. Table games generally include Blackjack or Twenty One, Craps, Baccarat and Roulette. Casino revenue is defined as the win from gaming activities, computed as the difference between gaming wins and losses, not the total amounts wagered. Casino revenue is recognized at the end of each gaming day.
Lodging revenues are derived from rooms and suites rented to guests and include related revenues for telephones, movies, etc. Room revenue is recognized at the time the room is provided to the guest.
Food and beverage revenues are derived from food and beverage sales in the food outlets of our casino/hotel, including restaurants, room service, banquets and nightclub. Food and beverage revenue is recognized at the time the food and/or beverage is provided to the guest.
Retail and other revenues include retail sales, Joint ticket sales, spa income, commissions, estimated income for gaming chips and tokens not expected to be redeemed and other miscellaneous income at our property.
Revenues in the accompanying statements of operations include the retail value of rooms, food and beverage, and other complimentaries provided to customers without charge which are then subtracted as promotional allowances to arrive at net revenues. The estimated costs of providing such complimentaries have been classified as casino operating expenses through interdepartmental allocations as follows (in thousands):
Revenues are recognized net of certain sales incentives in accordance with the Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) consensus on Issue 01-9, “Accounting for Consideration Given by a Vendor to a Customer (Including a Reseller of the Vendor’s Products).” EITF 01-9 requires that sales incentives be recorded as a reduction of revenue; consequently, the Company’s casino revenues are reduced by points earned in customer loyalty programs, such as the player’s club loyalty program. Casino revenues are net of cash incentives earned in our “Backstage Pass” slot club. For the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003, these incentives were $0.7 million, $0.5 million and $0.8 million, respectively.
Use of Estimates in 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 amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior years financial statements to conform to the current year presentation. The reclassifications relate primarily to recording revenue and related expenses on certain transactions on a gross basis versus net and reclassifying loss on disposal of fixed assets from non operating to operating expenses.
During the years ended December 31, 2004 and 2003 the Company recorded certain transactions for entertainment ticket sales and catering production on a net basis and included the net expense in marketing expense. Based upon the provisions of EITF 99-19 Reporting Revenue Gross as a Principal versus Net as an Agent the Company has determined that revenue and related cost of sales from such transactions are more appropriately recorded on a gross basis. Therefore the Company has reclassified $4.0 million from marketing expense to other income, $6.7 million from marketing expense to other expense and $0.8 million from food and beverage expense to food and beverage revenue for the year ended December 31, 2004. The Company has reclassified $4.0 million from marketing expense to other income, $6.4 million from marketing expense to other expense and $0.9 million from food and beverage expense to food and beverage revenue for the year ended December 31, 2003. In the year ended December 31, 2005, the Company recorded additional supervisory fees of $0.4 million that related to reclassification of revenue in the years ended December 31, 2004, 2003, 2002 and 2001, as such supervisory fees are calculated as 2% of recorded revenues, which management believes is immaterial for restating prior periods (see Note 7 for description of the supervisory agreement).
The Company also reclassified loss on disposal of assets from non-operating expenses to operating expenses for the years ended December 31, 2004 and 2003. This reclassification did not have an effect on net income in the statements of operations.
2. INVENTORIES
Inventories consist of the following (in thousands):
3. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
Components of receivables, net are as follows (in thousands):
4. OTHER ASSETS
Other assets consist of the following (in thousands):
Loan fees and other financing costs are being amortized over the life of the respective loans. Base stocks of china, glassware, utensils and linens are being amortized using the straight-line method over three years to a base stock level of 25% of original cost, with replacements expensed at the time of purchase.
5. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Property and equipment consists of the following (in thousands):
6. ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER LIABILITIES
Accrued expenses consist of the following (in thousands):
7. AGREEMENTS WITH RELATED PARTIES
The Company entered into a twenty-five year Amended and Restated Supervisory Agreement with Peter Morton, which provides for the supervision of the development, improvement, operation, and maintenance of the Company through 2022. Mr. Morton has the option to renew the agreement for two successive fifteen year terms. Pursuant to the terms of the Supervisory Agreement, Mr. Morton is to provide consulting and supervisory services to the Company. In the event either we are or Mr. Morton is in Default (as defined in the agreement), the non-defaulting party may terminate the agreement after the other party has received the opportunity to cure such default. As part of this agreement, the Company pays to Mr. Morton a supervisory fee equal to two percent of annual gross revenues (as defined), net of complimentaries for each year. Total supervisory fee expenses for these services for the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003 amounted to $4,022,000, $3,040,000 and $2,870,000, respectively. These expenses are included in related party expenses in the accompanying statements of operations. The unpaid amounts at December 31, 2005 and 2004 are $784,000 and $224,000, respectively, and are included in related party payable in the accompanying balance sheets. In the year ended December 31, 2005, the Company recorded additional supervisory fees of $0.4 million that related to reclassification of revenue in the years ended December 31, 2004, 2003, 2002 and 2001 (see Note 1).
Entities controlled by Mr. Morton have provided additional technical support services for the development, ongoing improvement and operation of the Company. The Company reimburses these entities for all costs and expenses incurred in connection with these services, including, without limitation, employee salary and benefits and allocated overhead. On August 15, 2005, the Company entered a Commercial Sublease with 510 Development, the Company pays $20,000 a month for this lease which expires December 31, 2009. The expense associated with this lease has always been part of the allocated overhead which is reimbursed by the Company. These expenses aggregated approximately $2,716,000, $1,794,000, and $1,434,000 for the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively, and are included in related party expenses in the accompanying statements of operations. At December 31, 2005, $157,000 was due from these entities for expenses paid in advance and is included in related party receivable in the accompanying balance sheet. At December 31, 2004, $74,000 was due to these entities for expenses and is included in related party payable in the accompanying balance sheet.
The Company provides technical support services and pays certain overhead expenses for the development and operation of HR Condominium Investors (Vegas), LLC, an affiliate of our Chief Executive Officer Mr. Morton. HR Condominium Investors (Vegas), LLC is developing the property adjacent to the Resort and has recently signed a commitment for a loan facility in the amount of $1,250,000,000 for such development. The development is expected to add approximately 1,350 condominiums, a new Joint, new restaurants, new spa, meeting and ballroom facilities, new pools and other amenities. HR Condominium Investors (Vegas), LLC reimburses the Company for all of these costs and expenses. The unpaid amounts at December 31, 2005 and December 31, 2004 are $251,000 and $122,000, respectively, and are included in related party receivable in the accompanying balance sheets.
On February 21, 2006, the Company issued a press release announcing that the Company had received proposals to acquire the resort. The Company has determined to explore a potential sale of the resort but there is no assurance that this process will lead to a transaction. On that same date, HR Condominium Investors (Vegas), LLC (“HRCI”), an affiliate of Mr. Morton, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, announced the suspension of its plans to build the condominium project adjacent to the resort.
During the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2004, the Company paid compensation to Harry Morton, son of Peter Morton, of $221,000 and $199,000, respectively, for his position as Special Projects Director which he started in the year ended December 31, 2004. The Company also provided housing and other services to Harry Morton at the resort with a total estimated value during the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2004, of $31,000 and $35,000, respectively. These costs are included in food and beverage expense on the statements of operations ended December 31, 2005 and 2004.
The Company provides technical support services and pays certain overhead expenses for the development and operation of Pink Taco Scottsdale, LLC, an entity managed by Harry Morton, son of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer Mr. Morton. Pink Taco Scottsdale, LLC reimburses the Company for all of these costs and expenses. The unpaid amounts at December 31, 2005 and December 31, 2004 and $181,000 and $0, respectively, and are included in related party receivable in the accompanying balance sheets.
As the Company has previously disclosed, on December 24, 2004, PM Realty LLC (a development entity involved in the condominium project and owned by Mr. Morton) and the Company entered into a lease for a ten year initial term with Mr. Chow of Las Vegas, LLC (“Mr. Chow”) for commercial space anticipated to be developed on land contiguous to the resort. The lease provides that if ground-breaking work on such development has not been received, in each case on or before June 1, 2006, Mr. Chow may elect to terminate such lease and receive a lease termination fee of $250,000.
8. LONG-TERM DEBT
In May 2003, the Company obtained funding of approximately $137.6 million in net proceeds from the offering of $140.0 million aggregate principal amount of its 8.875% Second Lien Notes due 2013 (the “2013 Notes”) and paid additional costs of approximately $0.4 million in conjunction with this issuance in cash. Concurrent with the execution of the 2013 Notes, the Company secured a $40 million Senior Secured Credit Facility (the “Facility”) through a group of banks at a cost of approximately $0.6 million which was withheld from the net proceeds. The Facility consists of a $20 million, five-year senior secured term loan (the “Term Loan”) and a $20 million senior secured revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Credit Facility”). As of December 31, 2005, the Company had $140.0 million outstanding in 2013 Notes, $17.0 million outstanding on its Revolving Credit Facility and had no balance outstanding on the Term Loan. The 2013 Notes are contractually subordinated in right of payment to all indebtedness incurred pursuant to the Facility and the liens and security interests securing the obligations of the Company under the 2013 Notes are contractually subordinated to the liens securing the obligations of the Company under the Facility.
The net proceeds from the issuance of the 2013 Notes together with the borrowings under the Facility and cash on hand, were used to redeem and repurchase the Company’s $120.0 million 9.25% Senior Subordinated Notes due in 2005, repay the entire $18.0 million balance outstanding on its $30.0 million senior revolving credit facility, repay $1.3 million of purchase money indebtedness, to pay $15.0 million of the accrued dividends on the Company’s preferred stock, to pay costs and expenses related to the foregoing, to finance working
capital and to provide liquidity to fund general and corporate purposes. A loss on early extinguishment of debt of $4.3 million related to a $3.0 million premium paid to the holders of the Company’s 9.25% Notes which were tendered or called during May 2003 through June 2003 and due to a $1.3 million write-off of unamortized deferred debt issuance costs related to the tendered and called notes.
During 2003, the Company exchanged all of its outstanding preferred stock and the remaining accrued and unpaid dividends thereon for an aggregate principal amount of junior subordinated notes equal to approximately $50.0 million (the “Subordinated Notes”). Upon issuance of the Junior Notes, the Company’s preferred stock ceased to remain outstanding. This transaction did not result in the recognition of a gain or loss to the Company as the market value and face amount of the Subordinated Notes issued in exchange for the Company’s outstanding preferred stock equaled the aggregate carrying and redemption value of such preferred stock.
Junior Subordinated Notes
Interest on the Junior Notes is payable on each January 15 and July 15, commencing on January 15, 2004, and may be paid in cash or in kind at the Company’s option, provided that interest will be paid in kind if a payment of such interest in cash would cause a default under the 2013 Notes or the Facility. The Junior Notes require that any semi-annual interest payment in cash be equal to the lesser of (x) 50% of the amount of interest accrued on the Junior Notes since the most recent interest payment date and (y) the amount of interest that the Company is permitted to pay in cash without causing a default under the 2013 Notes or the Facility. For interest payments payable in cash, interest accrues at a rate per annum equal to 9.875%, and for interest payments payable in kind, interest accrues at a rate per annum equal to 10.50%. The Junior Notes are contractually subordinated to the 2013 Notes and the Facility and any other senior debt of the Company. The Junior Notes mature on January 15, 2014 but are subject to redemption at the option of the Company, in whole or in part, at any time on or after January 15, 2009, at a premium to the principal amount thereof that decreases on each subsequent anniversary date, plus accrued interest to the date of redemption. The Junior Notes contain covenants restricting the Company’s ability to, among other things, sell or otherwise dispose of its assets, pay dividends, incur additional indebtedness, make acquisitions or merge or consolidate with another entity and enter into transactions with affiliates. In December of 2005, the Company received consent and repurchased $15.0 million of the outstanding Junior Subordinated Notes. This transaction had a purchase premium of $1.2 million. For the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2004 the Company paid interest in kind of $2.8 million and $3.0 million, respectively. The Company was in compliance with these covenants as of December 31, 2005.
2013 Notes
Interest on the 2013 Notes is payable on each June 1 and December 1 beginning December 1, 2003. The 2013 Notes are secured by a security interest in substantially all of the Company’s existing and future assets, other than licenses which may not be pledged under applicable law. The security interest is junior to the security interest in the assets securing our obligation under our Facility and except for permitted secured purchase money indebtedness. The 2013 Notes are subject to redemption at the option of the Company, in whole or in part, at any time on or after June 1, 2008, at a premium to the face amount ($140 million) that decreases on each subsequent anniversary date, plus accrued interest to the date of redemption. The redemption rates are as follows: after June 1, 2008, 104.438%, after June 1, 2009, 102.958%, after June 2010, 101.479% and after June 1, 2011, 100%. The 2013 Notes contain covenants restricting or limiting the ability of the Company to, among other things, pay dividends, create liens or other encumbrances, incur additional indebtedness, issue certain preferred stock, sell or otherwise dispose of a portion of its assets, make acquisitions or merge or consolidate with another entity and enter into transactions with affiliates. The Company was in compliance with these covenants as of December 31, 2005.
Facility
The Facility contains certain covenants including, among other things, financial covenants, limitations on the Company from disposing of capital stock, entering into mergers and certain acquisitions, incurring liens or indebtedness, issuing dividends on stock, and entering into transactions with affiliates. The Facility is secured by substantially all of the Company’s property at the Las Vegas site. Interest on the Facility accrues on all individual borrowings at an interest rate determined at the option of the Company, at either the LIBOR Index plus an applicable margin (not to exceed 3.5% (applicable margin was 2.50% at December 31, 2005) and aggregating 7.1% at December 31, 2005), or the Base Rate, defined as the higher of the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.5%, or the reference rate, as defined, plus an applicable margin (not to exceed 2.25%). The Company chose the LIBOR Index for all of its borrowings outstanding at December 31, 2005. These margins are dependent upon the Company’s total debt to EBITDA ratio, as defined. Interest accrued on the Base Rate borrowings is due monthly, up to the maturity date, while interest on LIBOR borrowings is due quarterly up to the maturity date. As a result of the additional time required to complete the year end closing process, the Company failed to deliver the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005 in a timely manner, and therefore was not in compliance with certain of its debt covenants. The Company has entered into an amendment and waiver agreement with the lenders. On April 14, 2006, the company received consent from the majority of the lenders which made the Company in compliance with the covenants.
The Company has a $0.3 million irrevocable standby letter of credit for the benefit of the State of Nevada related to the self insured portion of the Companies workers compensation insurance.
Maturities of the Company’s long-term debt are as follows (in thousands):
9. INCOME TAXES
The following table provides an analysis of the Company’s income tax benefit (in thousands):
Income taxes differ from the amount computed at the federal income tax statutory rate as a result of the following:
The significant components of the deferred income tax assets and liabilities included in the accompanying balance sheets are as follows (in thousands):
During 2005, in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 109, the Company released its deferred tax valuation and has recognized the benefit of its net deferred tax assets based on an assessment of future profits and historical earnings. The standard requires recognition of a future tax benefit to the extent that realization of such benefit is more likely than not. During the year ended December 31, 2005 the company recognized an income tax benefit of $7.4 million. The Company did not have income tax expense during the year ended December 31, 2004 due to being able to offset 100% of its income with NOL from previous periods against which a valuation allowance has been placed. Deferred tax assets are composed, for the most part, of credits and net operating losses. The General Business tax credit carryforward, valued at approximately $1,555,000 may be carried forward for twenty years as a credit against regular tax. AMT tax credit carryforwards valued at approximately $529,000 may be carried forward indefinitely as a credit against regular tax. The net operating loss carryforwards, valued at approximately $23,499,000, will begin to expire between 2012 and 2025.
10. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Operating Leases
The Company leases office space and equipment under operating leases expiring through 2009. Future minimum rental payments under these operating leases by year of the Company are as follows (in thousands):
On August 15, 2005, the Company entered a Commercial Sublease with 510 Development, the Company pays $20,000 a month for this lease which expires December 31, 2009.
Total rental expense was approximately $637,000, $364,000 and $392,000 during the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively, and is included in general and administrative expenses in the accompanying statements of operations.
Construction Commitment
During the year ended December 31, 2005, the Company incurred $1.6 million on potential expansion plans relating to our property as a result of the adjacent development project by HRCI. On February 21, 2006, we issued a press release announcing that we had received proposals to acquire the resort. We have determined to explore a potential sale of the resort but there is no assurance that this process will lead to a transaction. On that same date, HR Condominium Investors (Vegas), LLC (“HRCI”), an affiliate of
Mr. Morton, our Chief Executive Officer, announced the suspension of its plans to build the condominium project adjacent to the resort.
Self-Insurance
The Company is self-insured for workers’ compensation claims, up to an annual stop loss of $200,000 per claim. Management has established reserves it considers adequate to cover estimated future payments on claims incurred by the Company through December 31, 2005.
The Company has a partial self-insurance plan for general liability claims up to an annual stop loss per claim of $100,000 as of December 31, 2005.
Legal and Regulatory Proceeding
The Company is a defendant in various lawsuits relating to routine matters incidental to its business.
The company is a defendant in a lawsuit filed by ACM, Inc. ACM, Inc. alleges the company failed to pay approximately $600,000 due under a telephone consulting contract. The Company disputes the allegations and denies any further amounts are due.
Management provides an accrual for estimated losses that may occur and does not believe that the outcome of any pending claims or litigation, in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or liquidity beyond the amounts recorded in the accompanying balance sheet as of December 31, 2005.
11. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
The Company maintains a discretionary cash incentive bonus plan available to eligible employees, based upon individual and company-wide goals that are established by management and the Board of Directors of the Company on an annual basis.
In addition, the Company established a non-discretionary deferred compensation plan in December 1999 for certain of its executives whereby an amount equal to their base salary at the time they become covered by the plan will vest to them as deferred compensation 25% annually over a four year period. Amounts vested will be adjusted annually on a compound basis at a rate equal to the change in the Company’s earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization; however, during the initial four year period compound adjustments may not result in a net reduction in vested benefits.
The Company maintains a 401(k) profit sharing plan whereby substantially all employees over the age of 21 who have completed one year of continuous employment and 1,000 hours of service are eligible for the plan. Such employees joining the plan may contribute, through salary deductions, no less than 1% nor greater than 20% of their annual compensation. The Company, at its discretion, will match 50% of the first 6% of compensation contributed by employees. During the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003, the Company recorded approximately $695,000, $670,000 and $663,000, respectively, for its portion of plan contributions, which are included in the accompanying statements of operations.
The Company’s Deferred Bonus Plan, which started in 2004, is a nonqualified deferred compensation programs that provide benefits payable to directors, officers and certain key employees or their designated beneficiaries at specified future dates, upon retirement, or death. The participants are covered by life insurance policies with the Company designated as the beneficiary. Amounts charged to expense relating to this program for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2004 was $0.8 million and $0.2 million, respectively. Included in “Deferred Compensation” in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2005 and 2004 was $1.0 million and $0.2 million, respectively, relating to the Deferred Bonus Plan. Included in “Other Assets” at December 31, 2005 and 2004 were life insurance policies with cash surrender values of $0.7 million and $0.6 million, respectively, relating to the Deferred Bonus Plan.
During the years ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003, the Company recorded approximately $3,086,000, $2,072,000, and $1,671,000, respectively, for these bonuses and deferred compensation agreements, in the accompanying statements of operations.
12. FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The carrying amounts of the Company’s borrowings under its credit facilities approximate their fair value at December 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively. The fair value of the Company’s long-term notes, which are publicly traded, approximated $149.8 million and $154.0 million at December 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively, based on published bid prices. The fair value of the Company’s $36.5 million of Junior Subordinated Notes cannot be estimated as there is no established market nor published bid prices.
13. PREFERRED STOCK
Dividends on the Preferred Stock were cumulative from the date of original issuance out of funds legally available for that purpose in cash in arrears on November 30 and May 31 of each year, whether or not declared. Any amounts not paid in cash are accumulated and compounded semi-annually at the rate of 9 1/4% per annum until paid. The resulting liability at December 31, 2002 of approximately $9,411,000 was accrued in the accompanying balance sheet for the Series A Preferred Stock. The resulting liability at December 31, 2002 of approximately $5,280,000 was accrued in the accompanying balance sheet for the Series B Preferred Stock. During 2003, the Company retired all outstanding preferred stock. This transaction did not cause a gain or loss on retirement of the preferred stock.
14. RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
In December 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 123(R), “Share Based Payment.” This statement is a revision of SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation” and supercedes APB Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,” and related interpretations. SFAS No. 123(R) establishes standards for the accounting for transactions in which an entity exchanges its equity instruments for goods and services or incurs a liability in exchange for goods and services that are based on the fair value of the entity’s equity instruments or that may be settled by the issuance of those equity instruments. It requires an entity to measure the costs of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant-date fair value of the award and recognize that cost over the service period. The Company will adopt this statement on January 1, 2006. The Company does not anticipate that adoption of this statement will have a material impact on its financial position or results of operations.
In March 2005, the SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulleting (“SAB”) No. 107, “Share-Based Payment “ to provide interpretive guidance on SFAS No. 123(R) valuation methods, assumptions used in valuation models, and the interaction of SFAS No. 123(R) with existing SEC guidance. SAB No. 107 also requires the classification of stock compensation expense in the same financial statement line items as cash compensation. The Company does not anticipate that adoption of this statement will have a material impact on its financial position or results of operations.
In December 2004, the FASB issued SFAS No. 151, “Inventory Costs, an amendment of ARB No. 43, Chapter 4.” This statement amends the guidance in ARB No. 43, Chapter 4, “Inventory Pricing” to clarify the accounting for abnormal amounts of idle facility expense, freight, handling costs, and wasted material (spoilage). Paragraph 5 of ARB 43, Chapter 4, previously stated, that “under some circumstances, items such as idle facility expense, excessive spoilage, double freight, and rehandling costs may be so abnormal as to require treatment as current period charges.” This statement requires that those items be recognized as current-period charges regardless of whether they meet the criterion of “so abnormal.” In addition, this statement requires that allocation of the fixed production overheads to the costs of conversion be based on the normal capacity of the production facilities. This statement is effective for fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2005. Accordingly, the Company will adopt its provisions effective January 1, 2006. The Company does not anticipate that adoption of this statement will have a material impact on its financial position or results of operations.
In December 2004, the FASB issued SFAS No. 153, “Exchanges of Nonmonetary Assets, an amendment of APB Opinion No. 29.” The guidance in APB Opinion No. 29, “Accounting for Nonmonetary Transactions,” is based on the principle that exchanges of nonmonetary assets should be measured based on the fair value of the assets exchanged. The guidance in that Opinion, however, included certain exceptions to that principle. This Statement amends Opinion 29 to eliminate the exception for nonmonetary exchanges of similar productive assets and replaces it with a general exception for exchanges of nonmonetary assets that do not have commercial substance. A nonmonetary exchange has commercial substance if the future cash flows of the entity are expected to change significantly as a result of the exchange. Adoption of this statement on July 1, 2005, did not have a material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.
In March 2005, FASB issued FIN No. 47, “Accounting for Conditional Asset Retirement Obligations”. FIN No. 47 clarifies that the term conditional asset retirement obligation as used in SFAS No. 143, “Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations,” refers to a legal obligation to perform an asset retirement activity in which the timing and (or) method of settlement are conditional on a future event that may or may not be within the control of the entity. FIN 47 also clarifies when an entity would have sufficient information to reasonably estimate the fair value of an asset retirement obligation. FIN 47 is effective December 31, 2005. The adoption of FIN 47 did not have a material effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.
Hard Rock Hotel, Inc.
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
Years Ended December 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003
(In Thousands)
EXHIBIT INDEX
EXHIBIT
NUMBER
DESCRIPTION
3.
CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION AND BY-LAWS
(1)3.1
Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company.
(2)3.2
Certificate of Amendment of Second Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation.
(1)3.3
Second Amended and Restated By-Laws of the Company
4.
INSTRUMENTS DEFINING THE RIGHT OF SECURITY HOLDERS, INCLUDING INDENTURES.
(5)4.1
Indenture dated as of May 30, 2003, by and between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, relating to the 8 7/8% Second Lien Notes due 2013.
(5)4.2
Form of Global 8 7/8% Second Lien Notes due 2013 (included in Exhibit 4.1)
(5)4.3
Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of May 30, 2003, by and between the Company and Banc of America Securities LLC, as representative of the Initial Purchasers.
(5)4.4
Intercreditor Agreement, dated as of May 30, 2003, among the Company, U.S. Bank, N.A. and Bank of America, N.A.
(5)4.5
Form of Junior Subordinated Notes.
(7)4.6
First Supplemental Indenture to Indenture, dated as of November 20, 2003, by and between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, relating to the 87/8% Second Lien Notes due 2013.
(7)4.7
Second Supplemental Indenture to Indenture, dated as of November 24, 2003, by and between the Company and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee, relating to the 87/8% Second Lien Notes due 2013.
9.
VOTING TRUST AGREEMENTS.
(1)9.1
Amendment, dated as of July 1, 1997 to Stockholder Agreement, dated August 30, 1993, among the Company and certain stockholders listed therein.
(1)9.2
Stockholder Agreement, dated as of August 30, 1993, among the Company and certain stockholders listed there in.
10.
MATERIAL CONTRACTS.
(5)10.1
Credit Agreement, dated as of May 30, 2003, between the Company, Bank of America, N.A. and the lenders referred to therein.
(5)10.2
Second Lien Notes Security Agreement, dated as of May 30, 2003, between the Company and U.S. Bank, N.A.
(5)10.3
Second Lien Notes Trademark Security Interest Assignment, dated as of May 30, 2003, between the Company and U.S. Bank, N.A.
(5)10.4
Second Lien Notes Copyright Security Interest Assignment, dated as of May 30, 2003, between the Company and U.S. Bank, N.A.
(5)10.5
Exchange Agreement, dated as of May 30, 2003, between the Company, Peter A. Morton and Desert Rock, Inc.
(1)10.6
Amended and Restated Supervisory Agreement, dated as of October 21, 1997, between the Company and Peter A. Morton.
(3)10.7
Employment Agreement, dated November 8, 2000, between the Company and James D. Bowen.
(4)10.8
Amendment to Employment Agreement, dated September 7, 2001, between the Company and James D. Bowen.
(1)10.9
Trademark Sublicense Agreement, dated October 24, 1997, between the Company and Peter A. Morton.
(1)10.10
Amendment No. 1 to Trademark Sublicense Agreement, dated as of March 23, 1998, between the Company and Peter A. Morton.
(5)10.11
Amendment No. 2 to Trademark Sublicense Agreement, dated as of May 30, 2003, between the Company and Peter A. Morton.
(5)10.12
Security Agreement, dated as of May 30, 2003, between the Company, Bank of America, N.A. and the lenders referred to therein.
(5)10.13
Trademark Security Interest Assignment, dated as of May 30, 2003, between the Company and Bank of America, N.A.
(5)10.14
Copyright Security Interest Assignment, dated as of May 30, 2003, between the Company and Bank of America, N.A.
(5)10.15
Form of Hard Rock Hotel, Inc. 1999 Performance Awards Plan
(6)10.16
Employment Agreement, dated June 19, 2003, between the Company and Kevin Kelley
10.17
Second Amendment to Employment Agreement, dated September 7, 2001, between the Company and James D. Bowen.
(8)10.18
Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of September 17, 2004, between the Company and Bank of America Securities, LLC.
(9)10.19
Lease by and between the Company, PM Realty, LLC and Mr. Chow of Las Vegas, LLC dated December 24, 2004.
10.20
Commercial Sublease dated August 15, 2005, between the Company and 510 Development Corporation.
10.21
Agreement dated April 12, 2006 between the Company and Peter Morton.
12.
RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES.
12.1
Statement regarding the computation of ratio of earnings to fixed charges for the Company.
24.
POWERS OF ATTORNEY.
24.1
Power of Attorney (included in signature page).
31.
CERTIFICATIONS.
31.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
(1)
Incorporated by reference to designated exhibit to our Registration Statement on Form S-4, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 21, 1998 (File No. 333- 53211).
(2)
Incorporated by reference to designated exhibit to our Report on Form 10-Q, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the quarter ended August 31, 1999 (File No. 333-53211).
(3)
Incorporated by reference to designated exhibit to our Report on Form 10-Q, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the quarter ended September 30, 2000 (File No. 333-53211).
(4)
Incorporated by reference to designated exhibit to our Report on Form 10-Q, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the quarter ended September 30, 2001 (File No. 333-53211).
(5)
Incorporated by reference to designated exhibit to our Registration Statement on Form S-4, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 8, 2003 (File No. 333- 106863).
(6)
Incorporated by reference to designated exhibit to our Report on Form 10-Q, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the quarter ended June 30, 2003 (File No. 333-53211).
(7)
Incorporated by reference to designated exhibit to our Registration Statement on Amendment No. 1 to Form S-4, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 26, 2003 (File No. 333- 106863).
(8)
Incorporated by reference to designated exhibit to our Report on Form 10-Q, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the quarter ended September 30, 2004 (File No. 333-53211).
(9)
Incorporated by reference to designated exhibit to our Report on Form 10-Q, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the quarter ended March 31, 2005 (File No. 333-53211).