GRAPHIC

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

x                              QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2007

OR

o                                 TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from                  to                  

Commission file number 000-21640

STATION CASINOS, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Nevada

 

88-0136443

(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)

 

2411 West Sahara Avenue, Las Vegas, Nevada

(Address of principal executive offices)

89102

(Zip Code)

(702) 367-2411

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code

N/A

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x  No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act (Check one):

Large accelerated filer x

Accelerated filer o

Non-accelerated filer o

 

Indicated by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o  No x

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

Class

 

Outstanding at July 31, 2007

 

Common stock, $0.01 par value

 

57,260,367

 

 

 




STATION CASINOS, INC.

INDEX

Part I.

Financial Information

 

 

 

Item 1.

Financial Statements

 

 

 

 

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets—June 30, 2007 (unaudited) and December 31, 2006

 

3

 

 

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (unaudited)—Three and six months ended June 30, 2007 and 2006

 

4

 

 

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited)—Six months ended June 30, 2007 and 2006

 

5

 

 

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

 

6

 

Item 2.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

23

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

38

 

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

 

39

 

Part II.

Other Information

 

 

 

Item 1.

Legal Proceedings

 

40

 

Item 1A.

Risk Factors

 

42

 

Item 2.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

42

 

Item 3.

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

42

 

Item 4.

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

 

42

 

Item 5.

Other Information

 

42

 

Item 6.

Exhibits

 

42

 

Signature

 

43

 

 

2




Part 1.   Financial Information

Item 1.   Financial Statements

STATION CASINOS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(amounts in thousands, except share data)

 

 

June 30,

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

(unaudited)

 

 

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

105,149

 

 

$

116,898

 

 

Receivables, net

 

36,313

 

 

40,762

 

 

Inventories

 

11,354

 

 

9,676

 

 

Prepaid gaming tax

 

25,167

 

 

21,519

 

 

Prepaid expenses

 

17,371

 

 

12,696

 

 

Total current assets

 

195,354

 

 

201,551

 

 

Property and equipment, net

 

2,696,436

 

 

2,586,473

 

 

Goodwill

 

154,498

 

 

154,498

 

 

Land held for development

 

231,351

 

 

214,374

 

 

Investments in joint ventures

 

151,054

 

 

253,577

 

 

Native American development costs

 

192,011

 

 

181,153

 

 

Other assets, net

 

124,698

 

 

125,070

 

 

Total assets

 

$

3,745,402

 

 

$

3,716,696

 

 

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current portion of long-term debt

 

$

580

 

 

$

341

 

 

Accounts payable

 

16,676

 

 

19,558

 

 

Construction contracts payable

 

49,070

 

 

58,318

 

 

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

 

190,684

 

 

173,689

 

 

Total current liabilities

 

257,010

 

 

251,906

 

 

Long-term debt, less current portion

 

3,331,401

 

 

3,468,487

 

 

Due to unconsolidated affiliate

 

100,000

 

 

 

 

Deferred income tax, net

 

112,923

 

 

109,788

 

 

Distributions in excess of contributions and income of investment in joint venture

 

41,739

 

 

 

 

Other long-term liabilities, net

 

69,526

 

 

73,373

 

 

Total liabilities

 

3,912,599

 

 

3,903,554

 

 

Commitments and contingencies

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stockholders’ deficit:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock, par value $0.01; authorized 135,000,000 shares; 80,553,077 and 80,507,427 shares issued

 

593

 

 

593

 

 

Treasury stock, 23,276,927 and 23,245,751 shares, at cost

 

(1,042,498

)

 

(1,039,804

)

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

595,920

 

 

582,739

 

 

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

 

(6,271

)

 

(10,782

)

 

Retained earnings

 

285,059

 

 

280,396

 

 

Total stockholders’ deficit

 

(167,197

)

 

(186,858

)

 

Total liabilities and stockholders’ deficit

 

$

3,745,402

 

 

$

3,716,696

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

3




STATION CASINOS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(amounts in thousands, except per share data)
(unaudited)

 

 

Three months ended
June 30,

 

Six months ended
June 30,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

2007

 

2006

 

Operating revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Casino

 

$

256,459

 

$

245,137

 

$

521,154

 

$

461,360

 

Food and beverage

 

62,865

 

56,276

 

124,428

 

95,147

 

Room

 

28,556

 

21,619

 

59,304

 

38,640

 

Other

 

19,515

 

17,862

 

36,943

 

31,834

 

Management fees

 

23,614

 

23,984

 

48,442

 

49,884

 

Gross revenues

 

391,009

 

364,878

 

790,271

 

676,865

 

Promotional allowances

 

(28,113

)

(23,087

)

(54,937

)

(42,604

)

Net revenues

 

362,896

 

341,791

 

735,334

 

634,261

 

Operating costs and expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Casino

 

96,982

 

86,949

 

192,282

 

161,129

 

Food and beverage

 

43,992

 

41,423

 

87,054

 

67,999

 

Room

 

9,130

 

7,839

 

18,546

 

13,383

 

Other

 

7,493

 

6,820

 

13,720

 

11,403

 

Selling, general and administrative

 

60,896

 

58,157

 

122,824

 

102,780

 

Corporate

 

17,403

 

16,472

 

38,713

 

32,759

 

Development

 

1,893

 

2,549

 

4,152

 

4,681

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

39,975

 

31,363

 

80,197

 

57,027

 

Preopening

 

1,009

 

13,566

 

1,013

 

27,688

 

(Gain) loss on asset disposals, net

 

(1,693

)

65

 

(1,739

)

(778

)

Management agreement/lease termination

 

3,800

 

 

3,800

 

500

 

 

 

280,880

 

265,203

 

560,562

 

478,571

 

Operating income

 

82,016

 

76,588

 

174,772

 

155,690

 

Earnings from joint ventures

 

9,353

 

9,917

 

20,869

 

21,840

 

Operating income and earnings from joint ventures

 

91,369

 

86,505

 

195,641

 

177,530

 

Other expense:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense, net

 

(57,263

)

(41,345

)

(113,793

)

(65,161

)

Interest and other expense from joint ventures

 

(6,955

)

(1,480

)

(12,853

)

(3,048

)

 

 

(64,218

)

(42,825

)

(126,646

)

(68,209

)

Income before income taxes

 

27,151

 

43,680

 

68,995

 

109,321

 

Income tax provision

 

(12,078

)

(16,887

)

(30,872

)

(41,406

)

Net income

 

$

15,073

 

$

26,793

 

$

38,123

 

$

67,915

 

Earnings per common share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

 

$

0.28

 

$

0.46

 

$

0.70

 

$

1.10

 

Diluted

 

$

0.27

 

$

0.44

 

$

0.68

 

$

1.07

 

Weighted average common shares outstanding:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

 

54,523

 

58,851

 

54,454

 

61,463

 

Diluted

 

56,543

 

60,921

 

56,419

 

63,458

 

Dividends paid per common share

 

$

0.29

 

$

0.25

 

$

0.58

 

$

0.50

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

4




STATION CASINOS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(amounts in thousands)
(unaudited)

 

 

Six months ended

 

 

 

June 30,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

Cash flows from operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

38,123

 

$

67,915

 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

80,197

 

57,027

 

Excess tax benefit from exercise of stock options

 

(1,289

)

(1,618

)

Share-based compensation

 

11,332

 

11,525

 

Earnings from joint ventures

 

(8,016

)

(18,792

)

Distributions from joint ventures

 

81,776

 

679

 

Amortization of debt discount, premium and issuance costs

 

2,552

 

2,243

 

Changes in assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

Receivables, net

 

4,449

 

(27,588

)

Inventories and prepaid expenses

 

(10,001

)

(12,508

)

Deferred income tax

 

5,001

 

32,676

 

Accounts payable

 

(2,882

)

3,458

 

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

 

15,748

 

16,754

 

Other, net

 

5,065

 

1,878

 

Total adjustments

 

183,932

 

65,734

 

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

222,055

 

133,649

 

Cash flows from investing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures

 

(212,719

)

(476,537

)

Construction contracts payable

 

(9,248

)

50,815

 

Proceeds from sale of land, property and equipment

 

8,091

 

1,517

 

Investments in joint ventures

 

(34,686

)

(2,481

)

Distributions in excess of earnings from joint ventures

 

105,768

 

 

Native American development costs

 

(10,858

)

(9,882

)

Other, net

 

(13,623

)

(11,904

)

Net cash used in investing activities

 

(167,275

)

(448,472

)

Cash flows from financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Borrowings under bank facility with maturity dates less than three months, net

 

(132,700

)

792,200

 

Proceeds from the issuance of senior subordinated notes, net

 

 

298,500

 

Proceeds from issuance of related party promissory note

 

100,000

 

 

Exercise of stock options

 

560

 

1,098

 

Excess tax benefit from exercise of stock options

 

1,289

 

1,618

 

Debt issuance costs

 

(7

)

(3,724

)

Payment of dividends

 

(32,938

)

(32,341

)

Purchase of treasury stock

 

(2,694

)

(737,558

)

Other, net

 

(39

)

(48

)

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities

 

(66,529

)

319,745

 

Cash and cash equivalents:

 

 

 

 

 

(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents

 

(11,749

)

4,922

 

Balance, beginning of period

 

116,898

 

85,552

 

Balance, end of period

 

$

105,149

 

$

90,474

 

Supplemental cash flow disclosures:

 

 

 

 

 

Cash paid for interest, net of $8,972 and $18,122 capitalized, respectively

 

$

111,431

 

$

49,022

 

Cash paid for income taxes, net

 

$

 

$

29,283

 

Capital expenditures financed by debt

 

$

 

$

9,873

 

Land contributed to joint venture

 

$

 

$

47,340

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

5




STATION CASINOS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(unaudited)

1.   Basis of Presentation

Station Casinos, Inc. (the “Company”, “Station”, “we”, “our”, “ours” or “us”), a Nevada corporation, is a gaming and entertainment company that currently owns and operates nine major hotel/casino properties (one of which is 50% owned) and seven smaller casino properties (two of which are 50% owned), in the Las Vegas metropolitan area, as well as manages a casino for a Native American tribe. The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Station, its wholly owned subsidiaries and MPM Enterprises, LLC (which is 50% owned by Station and required to be consolidated). Investments in all other 50% or less owned affiliated companies are accounted for under the equity method. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements included herein have been prepared by Station, without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations, although we believe that the disclosures are adequate to make the information presented not misleading. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (which include normal recurring adjustments) necessary for a fair presentation of the results for the interim periods have been made. The results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007 are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for the full fiscal year. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, as amended, for the year ended December 31, 2006.

Certain amounts in the condensed consolidated financial statements for the three and six months ended June 30, 2006 have been reclassified to be consistent with the current year presentation. These reclassifications had no effect on the previously reported net income.

Merger Agreement

On February 23, 2007, we entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger with Fertitta Colony Partners LLC (“FCP”), a Nevada limited liability company, and FCP Acquisition Sub, a Nevada corporation and a wholly-owned subsidiary of FCP (“Merger Sub”). The Merger Agreement was amended by the Company, FCP and Merger Sub as of May 4, 2007. Pursuant to the terms of the Merger Agreement, Merger Sub will be merged with and into the Company, and as a result the Company will continue as the surviving corporation (such transaction, the “Merger”).

Following the consummation of the Merger, FCP will indirectly own approximately 75% of the issued and outstanding shares of non-voting common stock of the Company. Immediately prior to the Merger, FCP will be owned by affiliates of Frank J. Fertitta III, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, Lorenzo J. Fertitta, Vice Chairman and President of the Company, and FC Investor, LLC (“FC Investor”), a Delaware limited liability company and an affiliate of Colony Capital, LLC (“Colony”).

Following the consummation of the Merger, Fertitta Partners LLC, a Nevada limited liability company (“Fertitta Partners”), will own approximately 25% of the issued and outstanding shares of non-voting common stock of the Company. Immediately prior to the consummation of the Merger, Fertitta Partners will be owned by affiliates of Frank J. Fertitta III, Lorenzo J. Fertitta, Blake L. Sartini and Delise F. Sartini. Mr. Sartini is the brother-in-law to Frank J. Fertitta III and Lorenzo J. Fertitta, and in

6




1.   Basis of Presentation (Continued)

September 2001, he resigned his position as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Company concurrent with his purchase of Golden Gaming, Inc. Delise F. Sartini is the sister of Frank J. Fertitta III and Lorenzo J. Fertitta and is married to Blake L. Sartini.

FCP VoteCo LLC, a Nevada limited liability company (“FCP VoteCo”), will, following the consummation of the Merger and the substantially simultaneous issuance and sale of voting common stock of the Company for nominal consideration, own all of the issued and outstanding shares of voting common stock of the Company. Immediately prior to the consummation of the Merger, each of Frank J. Fertitta III, Lorenzo J. Fertitta and Thomas J. Barrack, Jr., the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Colony, will own a one-third interest in FCP VoteCo.

At the effective time of the Merger, each outstanding share of our common stock, including any rights associated therewith (other than shares of our common stock owned by FCP, Merger Sub, FCP Holding, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of FCP (“FCP HoldCo”), Fertitta Partners or any wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company or shares of our common stock held in treasury by us) will be cancelled and converted into the right to receive $90 in cash, without interest. Following the consummation of the Merger, the Company will be privately owned through FCP HoldCo, Fertitta Partners and FCP VoteCo. Certain members of management may be granted or otherwise acquire membership interests in FCP and Fertitta Partners.

Our Board of Directors (with Frank J. Fertitta III and Lorenzo J. Fertitta taking no part in the vote), acting upon the unanimous recommendation of a special committee composed entirely of disinterested directors (the “Special Committee”), has approved the Merger Agreement and has recommended that our stockholders vote in favor of the Merger Agreement.

Pursuant to rollover commitments entered into on February 23, 2007, Frank J. Fertitta III, Lorenzo J. Fertitta, Blake L. Sartini and Delise F. Sartini (collectively, the “Rollover Stockholders”) agreed to contribute a portion of their shares of our common stock to FCP. FCP subsequently assigned such rollover commitments to Fertitta Partners as of May 4, 2007. In addition, subject to specified exceptions, the Rollover Stockholders have agreed to vote their shares of our common stock in favor of the Merger pursuant to a voting agreement entered into on February 23, 2007, by and among the Rollover Stockholders, the Company and FCP.

The Merger Agreement provides that, upon termination under specified circumstances related to a competing acquisition proposal, the Company would be required to pay a termination fee of $160 million to FCP, except in the case of a termination resulting from a superior proposal received within 30 business days following the execution of the Merger Agreement, in which case the termination fee payable to FCP will be $106 million. If the Company’s stockholders do not approve the Merger under certain circumstances, the Company must reimburse FCP for reasonable out-of-pocket fees and expenses (including reasonable legal fees and expenses) incurred by FCP, Merger Sub and their respective affiliates in connection with the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement. The Company’s reimbursement of FCP’s expenses would reduce the amount of any required termination fee that becomes payable by the Company. The Merger Agreement further provides that upon termination under specified circumstances related to a breach of any representation, warranty, covenant or agreement on the part of FCP or Merger Sub or failure to obtain gaming approvals, FCP would be required to pay to the Company a reverse termination fee of $160 million or a regulatory termination fee of $106 million, respectively. Pursuant to a limited guarantee, dated as of February 23, 2007, affiliates of Colony guaranteed the payment of the reverse termination fee, the regulatory termination fee and amounts arising from indemnification and expense reimbursement obligations of FCP or Merger Sub under the Merger Agreement, up to $175 million in the aggregate.

7




1.   Basis of Presentation (Continued)

FCP has obtained equity and debt financing commitments for the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement, the proceeds of which will be used by FCP to pay the aggregate merger consideration and related fees and expenses of the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement. In connection with the debt financing commitments, the Company and certain of its subsidiaries (the “Operating Subs”) entered into a purchase and sale agreement with a newly created wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company (“NewCo”), pursuant to which the Operating Subs’ interests in certain real property will be sold to NewCo and leased back to the Company and the Operating Subs (the “Sale and Leaseback Transaction”). The Sale and Leaseback Transaction was approved by the Special Committee, which obtained a fairness opinion in connection therewith. The closing of the Sale and Leaseback Transaction is contingent upon the consummation of the Merger. Consummation of the Merger is not subject to a financing condition but is subject to various other conditions to closing, including approval of the Merger by our stockholders and regulatory approvals. The Merger is expected to be completed in the second half of 2007.

The total value of the Merger transaction is estimated to be approximately $5.7 billion, consisting of approximately $4.5 billion to pay the Company’s stockholders and holders of options or restricted shares amounts due to them under the Merger Agreement assuming a purchase price of $90.00 per share (net of the exercise price for options and net of the value of the equity rollover shares of Company common stock contributed to Fertitta Partners by the Rollover Stockholders), approximately $1.1 billion to repay certain existing indebtedness and approximately $100 million to pay fees and expenses in connection with the Merger. The approximate value of the Merger transaction to each of the Rollover Stockholders is as follows:

·       Frank J. Fertitta III will (A) contribute 3,979,884 shares of Company common stock to Fertitta Partners in exchange for Class A Units of Fertitta Partners valued at $358,189,560 based on the Merger consideration of $90.00 per share and (B) receive cash consideration of approximately $148,654,355 in respect of his 348,266 shares of Company common stock, his 726,370 unvested shares of restricted stock and his outstanding options to purchase 663,900 shares of Company common stock that are entitled to receive cash payments upon consummation of the Merger;

·       Lorenzo J. Fertitta will (A) contribute 4,038,153 shares of Company common stock to Fertitta Partners immediately prior to the consummation of the Merger in exchange for Class A Units of Fertitta Partners valued at $363,433,770 based on the Merger consideration of $90.00 per share and (B) receive cash consideration of approximately $145,077,950 in respect of his 419,694 shares of Company common stock, his 616,271 unvested shares of restricted stock and his outstanding options to purchase 661,400 shares of Company common stock that are entitled to receive cash payments upon consummation of the Merger; and

·       Blake and Delise Sartini will (A) contribute 1,653,984 shares of Company common stock to Fertitta Partners immediately prior to the consummation of the Merger in exchange for Class A Units of Fertitta Partners valued at $148,858,560 based on the Merger consideration of $90.00 per share and (B) receive cash consideration of approximately $201,062,970 in respect of their 2,234,033 shares of Company common stock entitled to receive cash payments upon consummation of the Merger.

On July 9, 2007, Station filed a definitive proxy statement and related materials with the Securities and Exchange Commission that provides details about the pending sale of the Company and the special meeting of stockholders to be held on August 13, 2007, at which holders of record at the close of business on June 14, 2007 of the Company’s common stock will be asked to consider and vote upon a proposal to approve the Merger Agreement. As a result of the Merger, if completed, our stock will no longer be publicly traded. There can be no assurances when or if the transaction will be consummated.

8




1.   Basis of Presentation (Continued)

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

In February 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities—including an amendment of FASB Statement 115” that provides companies with an option to report certain financial assets and liabilities in their entirety at fair value. This statement is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. The fair value option may be applied instrument by instrument, and may be applied only to entire instruments. A business entity would report unrealized gains and losses on items for which the fair value option has been elected in earnings at each subsequent reporting date. We are evaluating our options provided for under this statement and their potential impact on its financial statements when implemented. SFAS 159 is being reviewed in conjunction with the requirements of SFAS 157 discussed below.

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS 157, “Fair Value Measurements”. This statement defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value for both assets and liabilities through a fair value hierarchy and expands disclosure requirements. SFAS 157 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007 and interim periods within those fiscal years. We are evaluating SFAS 157 and have not yet determined the impact adoption will have on the consolidated financial statements.

In June 2006, the FASB issued Interpretation No. (“FIN”) 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty of Income Taxes,” which addresses the uncertainty of income taxes recognized in accordance with SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes”. FIN 48 prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. FIN 48 is effective for fiscal years that begin after December 15, 2006. We have adopted FIN 48 as of January 1, 2007, as required. As a result of the adoption of FIN 48, the Company recognized a $3.0 million increase in the liability for unrecognized tax benefits. This increase has been accounted for as a reduction to the January 1, 2007 balance of retained earnings in the amount of $0.5 million. Further discussion regarding the adoption of FIN 48 can be found in Note 10.

9




2.   Investments in Joint Ventures

We have various investments in 50% owned joint ventures, and a 6.7% investment in a joint venture that owns the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada, that are accounted for under the equity method. Under the equity method, original investments are recorded at cost and adjusted by our share of earnings, losses and distributions of the joint ventures. The investment balance also includes interest capitalized during the construction period. Investments in joint ventures consist of the following (amounts in thousands):

 

 

June 30,

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

(unaudited)

 

 

 

Green Valley Ranch (50.0%)(a)

 

 

$

 

 

 

$

135,271

 

 

Aliante Station (50.0%)

 

 

78,285

 

 

 

56,812

 

 

Rancho Road (50.0%)

 

 

39,784

 

 

 

28,285

 

 

Palms Casino Resort (6.7%)

 

 

18,102

 

 

 

18,089

 

 

Sunset GV (50.0%)

 

 

8,239

 

 

 

8,029

 

 

Barley’s (50.0%)

 

 

3,419

 

 

 

3,580

 

 

The Greens (50.0%)

 

 

3,225

 

 

 

3,511

 

 

Investments in joint ventures

 

 

$

151,054

 

 

 

$

253,577

 

 


(a)           In February 2007, we received a distribution in excess of our investment in Green Valley Ranch resulting in a deficit of approximately $41.7 million as of June 30, 2007 which is recorded as a long-term liability on our condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Summarized balance sheet information for the joint ventures is as follows (amounts in thousands):

 

 

June 30,

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

(unaudited)

 

 

 

Current assets

 

$

91,273

 

 

$

90,581

 

 

Property and equipment and other assets, net

 

1,747,976

 

 

1,394,021

 

 

Current liabilities

 

111,411

 

 

103,551

 

 

Long-term debt and other liabilities

 

1,266,808

 

 

628,788

 

 

Members’ equity

 

461,030

 

 

752,263

 

 

 

Summarized results of operations for the joint ventures is as follows (amounts in thousands, unaudited):

 

 

Three months ended
June 30,

 

Six months ended
June 30,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

2007

 

2006

 

Net revenues

 

$

141,430

 

$

120,447

 

$

279,907

 

$

244,730

 

Operating costs and expenses

 

114,563

 

93,783

 

220,967

 

185,794

 

Operating income

 

26,867

 

26,664

 

58,940

 

58,936

 

Interest and other expense, net

 

(16,522

)

(3,034

)

(33,331

)

(5,941

)

Net income

 

$

10,345

 

$

23,630

 

$

25,609

 

$

52,995

 

 

 

10




2.   Investments in Joint Ventures (Continued)

The operating earnings from these joint ventures are shown as a separate line item on our condensed consolidated statements of operations after operating income. In addition, interest and other expense from joint ventures is shown as a separate component under other expense on our condensed consolidated statements of operations. The following table identifies the net equity earnings from joint ventures (amounts in thousands, unaudited):

 

 

Three months ended
June 30,

 

Six months ended
June 30,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

2007

 

2006

 

Operating earnings from joint ventures

 

$

9,353

 

$

9,917

 

$

20,869

 

$

21,840

 

Interest and other expense from joint ventures

 

(6,955

)

(1,480

)

(12,853

)

(3,048

)

Net earnings from joint ventures

 

$

2,398

 

$

8,437

 

$

8,016

 

$

18,792

 

 

3.   Management Fees

We manage Thunder Valley on behalf of the United Auburn Indian Community (the “UAIC”) and receive a management fee equal to 24% of net income (as defined in the management agreement). We are also the managing partner for Green Valley Ranch, Barley’s and The Greens and receive a management fee equal to 2% of revenues and approximately 5% of Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization (“EBITDA”) from Green Valley Ranch and 10% of EBITDA from Barley’s and The Greens. Our management fees are included in net revenues on our condensed consolidated statements of operations.

United Auburn Indian Community

We have entered into a Development Services Agreement and a Management Agreement with the UAIC. Our seven-year Management Agreement was approved by the National Indian Gaming Commission (the “NIGC”) and expires in June 2010. Pursuant to those agreements, and in compliance with a Memorandum of Understanding entered into by the UAIC and Placer County, California, we developed, with the UAIC, Thunder Valley, a gaming and entertainment facility on approximately 49 acres located approximately seven miles north of Interstate 80 on Highway 65, in Placer County, California, near Sacramento, which opened on June 9, 2003.

11




4.   Long-term Debt

Long-term debt consists of the following (amounts in thousands):

 

 

June 30,

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

(unaudited)

 

 

 

Revolving credit facility, $2.0 billion limit at June 30, 2007, due December 16, 2010, interest at a margin above the Alternate Base Rate or the Eurodollar Rate (7.3% and 7.6% at June 30, 2007 and December 31, 2006, respectively)

 

$

1,023,100

 

 

$

1,155,800

 

 

6% senior notes, interest payable semi-annually, principal due April 1, 2012, callable April 1, 2008, net of unamortized discount of $1.2 million and $1.3 million at June 30, 2007 and December 31, 2006, respectively

 

448,847

 

 

448,742

 

 

7¾% senior notes, interest payable semi-annually, principal due August 15, 2016, callable February 15, 2011

 

400,000

 

 

400,000

 

 

6½% senior subordinated notes, interest payable semi-annually, principal due February 1, 2014, callable February 1, 2009

 

450,000

 

 

450,000

 

 

67¤8% senior subordinated notes, interest payable semi-annually, principal due March 1, 2016, callable March 1, 2009, net of unamortized premium of $7.1 million and $7.4 million at June 30, 2007 and December 31, 2006, respectively

 

707,127

 

 

707,427

 

 

65¤8% senior subordinated notes, interest payable semi-annually, principal due March 15, 2018, callable March 15, 2011, net of unamortized discount of $1.4 million at June 30, 2007 and December 31, 2006

 

298,612

 

 

298,568

 

 

Other long-term debt, weighted-average interest of 7.1% at June 30, 2007 and December 31, 2006, maturity dates ranging from 2007 to 2026

 

9,150

 

 

9,196

 

 

Total long-term debt

 

3,336,836

 

 

3,469,733

 

 

Current portion of long-term debt

 

(580

)

 

(341

)

 

Market value of interest rate swaps

 

(4,855

)

 

(905

)

 

Total long-term debt, net

 

$

3,331,401

 

 

$

3,468,487

 

 

 

Revolving Facility

In December 2005, we increased our availability under our revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Facility”) from $1.0 billion to $2.0 billion and extended the maturity by one year to December 2010. The Revolving Facility contains no principal amortization. The Borrowers are the major operating subsidiaries and the Revolving Facility is secured by substantially all of our assets. Borrowings under the Revolving Facility bear interest at a margin above the Alternate Base Rate or the Eurodollar Rate (each as defined in the Revolving Facility), as selected by us. The margin above such rates, and the fee on the unfunded portions of the Revolving Facility, will vary quarterly based on our combined consolidated ratio of debt to Adjusted EBITDA (as defined in the Revolving Facility). As of June 30, 2007, the Borrowers’ margin above the Eurodollar Rate on borrowings under the Revolving Facility was 1.75%. The maximum margin for Eurodollar Rate borrowings is 2.25%. The maximum margin for Alternate Base Rate borrowings is 1.00%. As of June 30, 2007, the fee for the unfunded portion of the Revolving Facility was 0.30%.

The Revolving Facility contains certain financial and other covenants, some of which were amended in June and September 2006. These include a maximum funded debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratio for the Borrowers combined of 4.00 to 1.00 for each quarter and a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio for the preceding four quarters for the Borrowers combined of 1.25 to 1.00 for each quarter. As of June 30, 2007, the Borrowers’ funded debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratio was 2.28 to 1.00 and the fixed charge coverage ratio was 1.63 to 1.00. In addition, the Revolving Facility has financial and other covenants, which require that the maximum consolidated funded debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratio can be no more than 7.00 to 1.00

12




4.   Long-term Debt (Continued)

through June 30, 2007, which reduces to 6.75 to 1.00 on September 30, 2007 through June 30, 2008, 6.50 to 1.00 on September 30, 2008 through December 31, 2008, 5.75 to 1.00 on March 31, 2009 through December 31, 2009 and to 5.00 to 1.00 on March 31, 2010. Other covenants limit prepayments of indebtedness or rent (including subordinated debt other than re-financings meeting certain criteria), asset dispositions, dividends, indebtedness, stock purchases and investments. As of June 30, 2007, our consolidated funded debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratio was 5.74 to 1.00. We have pledged the stock of all of our major subsidiaries.

Senior and Senior Subordinated Notes

The indentures (the “Indentures”) governing our senior and senior subordinated notes (the “Notes”) contain certain customary financial and other covenants, which limit us and our subsidiaries’ ability to incur additional debt. At June 30, 2007, our Consolidated Coverage Ratio (as defined in the Indentures) was 2.25 to 1.00. The Indentures provide that we may not incur additional indebtedness, other than specified types of indebtedness, unless the Consolidated Coverage Ratio is at least 2.00 to 1.00. In the event our Consolidated Coverage Ratio is below 2.00 to 1.00, the covenant limits our ability to incur additional indebtedness for borrowings under the Revolving Facility not to exceed the greater of $200 million or 1.5 times Operating Cash Flow (as defined in the Indentures) for the four most recent quarters, plus $15 million. The Indentures also give the holders of the Notes the right to require us to purchase the Notes at 101% of the principal amount of the Notes plus accrued interest thereon upon a Change of Control and Rating Decline (each as defined in the Indentures) of the Company. In addition, the indenture governing the senior notes contains a limitation on liens we can incur.

Interest Rate Swaps

We have entered into various interest rate swaps with members of our bank group to manage interest expense. As of June 30, 2007, we had interest rate swaps with a combined notional amount of $550.0 million. We entered into a fair value hedge interest rate swap with a notional amount of $50.0 million tied directly to our 6% senior notes converting a portion of our fixed-rate debt to a floating rate based upon three-month LIBOR rates, terminating in April 2012. This interest rate swap qualifies for the “shortcut” method allowed under SFAS 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities” and as amended by SFAS 138 and 149, which allows for an assumption of no ineffectiveness. As such, there is no income statement impact from changes in the fair value of the hedging instrument. Instead, the fair value of the instrument is recorded as an asset or liability on our balance sheet with an offsetting adjustment to the carrying value of the related debt. In accordance with SFAS 133, we recorded a liability of $2.7 million and $2.2 million as of June 30, 2007 and December 31, 2006, respectively, representing the fair value of the interest rate swap and a corresponding decrease in long-term debt, as this interest rate swap is considered highly effective under the criteria established by SFAS 133. We paid a weighted average rate based on LIBOR, which approximated 7.0% at June 30, 2007 and received a fixed rate of 6.0%.

We have entered into two cash flow hedge interest rate swaps with a notional amount of $500.0 million tied directly to our Revolving Facility converting a portion of our floating-rate debt to a fixed-rate based on three-month LIBOR rates, terminating in December 2010. We paid a fixed rate of 5.1% and received three-month LIBOR which approximated 5.4% at June 30, 2007. These interest rate swaps are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges resulting in the effective portion of the gain or loss reported as a component of other comprehensive income (loss) with an offsetting adjustment to the carrying value of the related debt. As of June 30, 2007 and December 31, 2006, we recorded other comprehensive income of $2.1 million and other comprehensive loss of $1.4 million, respectively, related to the change in market value of these interest rate swaps and a corresponding decrease and increase, respectively, in long-term debt.

13




4.   Long-term Debt (Continued)

The difference between amounts received and paid under such agreements, as well as any costs or fees, is recorded as a reduction of, or an addition to, interest expense as incurred over the life of the swaps. The net effect of the interest rate swaps resulted in a reduction of interest expense of approximately $172,000 and $358,000 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007, respectively. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2006, the net effect of the interest rate swaps resulted in additional interest expense of approximately $53,000 and $82,000, respectively.

5.   Due to Unconsolidated Affiliate

On February 16, 2007, Green Valley Ranch entered into a new $830 million credit facility (the “Green Valley Facility”). Proceeds from the Green Valley Facility were used to repay outstanding borrowings under the previous revolving facility and term loan, as well as fund an equal distribution to the members which was comprised of approximately $185 million in distributions to each member and a $100 million promissory note from each member for a total of approximately $570 million. The $100 million promissory note is at an interest rate of 7% and matures on February 15, 2012.

6.   Stockholders’ Equity

Treasury Stock

During the three and six months ended June 30, 2007, we repurchased 8,564 and 31,176 shares, respectively, of our common stock for approximately $0.8 million and $2.7 million for the same periods, which were withheld to offset tax withholding obligations that occur upon vesting of restricted shares. As of June 30, 2007, we are authorized to repurchase approximately 7.5 million additional shares of our common stock.

Comprehensive Income

SFAS 130, “Reporting Comprehensive Income”, requires companies to disclose other comprehensive income and the components of such income. Comprehensive income is the total of net income and all other nonstockholder changes in equity. We have recorded the mark-to-market valuation of our interest rate swaps and our 50% interest in the mark-to-market valuation of the interest rate swaps at Green Valley Ranch, as well as the unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities and the amortization of the unrecognized pension and postretirement benefit plan liabilities as other comprehensive income. Comprehensive income was computed as follows (amounts in thousands, unaudited):

 

 

Three months ended
June 30,

 

Six months ended
June 30,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

2007

 

2006

 

Net income

 

$

15,073

 

$

26,793

 

$

38,123

 

$

67,915

 

Mark-to-market valuation of interest rate swaps, net of tax

 

7,309

 

2,191

 

4,116

 

5,560

 

Unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities, net of tax

 

88

 

 

88

 

 

Amortization of unrecognized pension and postretirement benefit plan liabilities, net of tax

 

154

 

 

307

 

 

Comprehensive income

 

$

22,624

 

$

28,984

 

$

42,634

 

$

73,475

 

 

In our Annual Report on Form 10-K, as amended, for the year ended December 31, 2006, we disclosed the adoption of SFAS 158 as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income; however, the adoption was presented in the notes to the financial statements as a component of comprehensive income for the year ended December 31, 2006. We will modify our presentation in future filings to exclude the adoption of SFAS 158 as a component of comprehensive income for the year ended December 31, 2006.

14




6.   Stockholders’ Equity (Continued)

Earnings Applicable to Common Stock

In accordance with the provisions of SFAS 128, “Earnings Per Share”, basic EPS is computed by dividing net income applicable to common stock by the weighted-average common shares outstanding, excluding unvested restricted stock, during the period. Diluted EPS reflects the additional dilution for all potentially dilutive securities such as stock options and unvested restricted stock.

The weighted average number of common shares used in the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share consisted of the following (amounts in thousands, unaudited):

 

 

Three months ended
June 30,

 

Six months ended
June 30,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

2007

 

2006

 

Weighted average common shares outstanding (used in calculation of basic earnings per share)

 

54,523

 

58,851

 

54,454

 

61,463

 

Potential dilution from the assumed exercise of stock options and unvested restricted stock

 

2,020

 

2,070

 

1,965

 

1,995

 

Weighted average common and common equivalent shares outstanding (used in calculation of diluted earnings per share)

 

56,543

 

60,921

 

56,419

 

63,458

 

 

Dividends

During the six months ended June 30, 2007, we paid a quarterly cash dividend of $0.2875 per share to stockholders of record on February 26, 2007 and May 21, 2007 for approximately $32.9 million. During the six months ended June 30, 2006, we paid a quarterly cash dividend of $0.25 per share to stockholders of record on February 10, 2006 and May 12, 2006 for approximately $32.3 million.

7.   Share-Based Compensation

In May 2005, the stockholders approved and we adopted the 2005 Stock Compensation Plan (the “2005 Plan”) which provides for grants of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units and other stock awards (collectively, the “Awards”). Individuals eligible to receive Awards under the 2005 Plan include employees, directors and independent contractors of the Company. New shares are issued upon option exercise or restricted stock awards. Each share grant subject to an award of restricted stock, restricted stock unit or other stock award shall reduce the shares available for grant by 1.9 shares. See Note 11 of the Company’s consolidated financial statements in its Annual Report on Form 10-K, as amended, for the year ended December 31, 2006, for additional information related to the Company’s share-based compensation plan.

Summarized information under the 2005 Plan for the six months ended June 30, 2007, is as follows (unaudited):

 

 

Options

 

Weighted
average
exercise
price

 

Restricted
Shares

 

Weighted
average
grant date
fair value

 

Total

 

Outstanding at December 31, 2006

 

2,187,107

 

 

$

12.07

 

 

3,027,354

 

 

$

52.12

 

 

5,214,461

 

Granted

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercised/Lapsed

 

(46,050

)

 

$

12.17

 

 

(285,690

)

 

$

46.46

 

 

(331,740

)

Canceled

 

 

 

 

 

(400

)

 

$

64.67

 

 

(400

)

Outstanding at June 30, 2007

 

2,141,057

 

 

$

12.07

 

 

2,741,264

 

 

$

52.70

 

 

4,882,321

 

Exercisable at June 30, 2007

 

2,107,357

 

 

$

11.93

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Available for grant at June 30, 2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,104,562

 

 

15




7.   Share-Based Compensation (Continued)

The weighted average remaining contractual term for options outstanding and exercisable at June 30, 2007 is 4.1 years.

The intrinsic value of a stock option is the amount by which the market value of the underlying stock exceeds the exercise price of the stock option. At June 30, 2007, the aggregate intrinsic value of stock options outstanding was $160.0 million and the aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercisable was $157.8 million. Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised was $0.1 million and $3.3 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007, respectively. Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised for the three and six months ended June 30, 2006 was $2.7 million and $5.4 million, respectively.

As of June 30, 2007, we had unearned share-based compensation of $132.2 million associated with restricted stock awards. The total fair value of restricted shares that vested for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007 was $3.0 million and $24.0 million, respectively. The total fair value of restricted shares that vested for the three and six months ended June 30, 2006 was $1.3 million and $6.8 million, respectively.

We receive a tax deduction for certain stock option exercises during the period the options are exercised, generally for the excess of the market price over the exercise price of the options. For the six months ended June 30, 2007 and 2006, we reported $1.3 million and $1.6 million, respectively, of excess tax benefit.

If the Merger Agreement described in Note 1 is consummated, all outstanding stock options and unvested restricted stock awards under the 2005 Plan and Prior Plans will become vested and all related unrecognized compensation expense will be recognized during the period in which the Merger is consummated.

The following table represents where reported share-based compensation expense was classified in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations (amounts in thousands, unaudited):

 

 

Three months ended 
June 30,

 

Six months ended
June 30,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

2007

 

2006

 

Casino expense

 

$

94

 

$

93

 

$

187

 

$

155

 

Food & beverage expense

 

 

31

 

 

48

 

Room expense

 

 

12

 

 

12

 

Selling, general & administrative

 

691

 

644

 

1,449

 

1,098

 

Corporate

 

4,005

 

4,665

 

8,044

 

8,711

 

Development

 

555

 

609

 

1,102

 

1,126

 

Preopening

 

125

 

16

 

191

 

141

 

Total share-based compensation

 

5,470

 

6,070

 

10,973

 

11,291

 

Tax benefit

 

(1,914

)

(2,125

)

(3,840

)

(3,952

)

Total share-based compensation, net of tax

 

$

3,556

 

$

3,945

 

$

7,133

 

$

7,339

 

 

8.   Future Development

Las Vegas Development

Red Rock Expansion

In April 2007, we completed a bowling center as part of a $60 million to $65 million phase III master-planned expansion of Red Rock, which will also include an expansion of the west parking garage. Construction of the parking garage expansion is still underway. Approximately $45.6 million had been incurred as of June 30, 2007.

16




8.   Future Development (Continued)

Fiesta Henderson Expansion

In August 2006, we opened a parking garage, a remodeled and expanded race and sports book and additional slot machines as part of a $75 million phase II master-planned expansion at Fiesta Henderson. The movie theater complex is still under construction. Approximately $66.3 million had been incurred on the expansion as of June 30, 2007.

Green Valley Ranch Expansion

In October 2006, we opened an additional parking garage, a new race and sports book, a new poker room and two new restaurants as part of the $115 million phase III master-planned expansion at Green Valley Ranch. The entertainment lounge opened in May 2007. Approximately $114.5 million had been incurred on the expansion as of June 30, 2007.

Aliante Station

In December 2005, we entered into an agreement with the Greenspun Corporation to develop Aliante Station, a hotel and casino in the Aliante master-planned community located in North Las Vegas, Nevada. We will develop and manage the facility, to be located on a gaming-entitled 40-acre site on the northeast corner of Interstate 215 and Aliante Parkway, which was contributed by the Greenspun Corporation for their 50% ownership in the joint venture. We will receive a management fee equal to 2% of the property’s revenues and approximately 5% of EBITDA. The first phase of Aliante Station is expected to include a hotel, casino, multiple full-service restaurants and a multi-screen movie theater complex. Construction on Aliante Station began in February 2007. Pursuant to the terms of the agreement, in January 2006, we contributed a 54 acre site located on Losee Road in North Las Vegas, Nevada, as well as approximately $2.2 million, for our 50% ownership in the joint venture. As of June  30, 2007, we have contributed an additional $23.5 million to fund design and development costs.

Rancho Road

In December 2006, we entered into an amended and restated operating agreement with FBLV Holding Company LLC (“FBLV”). Pursuant to the amended and restated operating agreement, the parties contributed approximately 52 acres (with approximately 20 acres contributed by us for our 50% ownership and approximately 32 acres contributed by FBLV for their 50% ownership) of improved and unimproved real property located along Rancho Road south of Palace Station in Las Vegas, Nevada into a joint venture. It is anticipated that the joint venture will develop, construct and manage, pursuant to a master development plan, a mixed-use residential, retail and entertainment (excluding non-restricted gaming) project on all or a portion of such property. The timing, cost and scope of the project have yet to be determined. As of June 30, 2007, we have contributed an additional $12.9 million to fund design and development costs.

Native American Development

The Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria

We have entered into Development and Management Agreements with the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria (the “FIGR”), a federally recognized Native American tribe. Pursuant to those agreements, we will assist the FIGR in developing and operating a gaming and entertainment project to be located in Sonoma County, California. The FIGR selected us to assist them in designing, developing and financing their project and, upon opening, we will manage the facility on behalf of the FIGR. The Management Agreement has a term of seven years from the opening of the facility and we will receive a

17




8.   Future Development (Continued)

management fee equal to 24% of the facility’s net income. We will also receive a development fee equal to 2% of the cost of the project upon the opening of the facility.

In October 2003, the FIGR entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Rohnert Park. In August 2005, we purchased 270 acres of land just west of the Rohnert Park city limits in Sonoma County, California. In March 2006, we purchased an additional 4.7 acres adjacent to the previously acquired property. The property purchased is approximately one-quarter mile from Highway 101 and approximately 43 miles from downtown San Francisco. Development of the gaming and entertainment project is subject to certain governmental and regulatory approvals, including, but not limited to, negotiating a gaming compact with the State of California, the Department of Interior (“DOI”) accepting the land into trust on behalf of the FIGR and approval of the Management Agreement by the NIGC. Prior to obtaining third-party financing, we will contribute significant financial support to the project. As of June 30, 2007, we had advanced approximately $134.6 million toward the development of this project, primarily to complete the environmental impact study and secure real estate for the FIGR project, which is included in our condensed consolidated balance sheets. Funds advanced by us are expected to be repaid from the proceeds of the project financing or from the FIGR’s gaming revenues. In addition, we have agreed to pay approximately $11.3 million upon achieving certain milestones, which will not be reimbursed. As of June 30, 2007, approximately $2.0 million of these payments had been made and were expensed in development expense as incurred. The timing of this type of project is difficult to predict and is dependent upon the receipt of the necessary governmental and regulatory approvals. There can be no assurances when or if these approvals will be obtained.

Gun Lake Tribe

On November 13, 2003, we agreed to purchase a 50% interest in MPM Enterprises, LLC, a Michigan limited liability company (“MPM”). Concurrently with our agreement to purchase that interest, MPM and the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians, a federally recognized Native American tribe commonly referred to as the Gun Lake Tribe (“Gun Lake”), entered into amended Development and Management Agreements, pursuant to which MPM agreed to assist Gun Lake in developing and operating a gaming and entertainment project to be located in Allegan County, Michigan. On July 29, 2005, MPM and Gun Lake entered into amended and restated Development and Management Agreements. We have agreed to pay $6.0 million for our 50% interest in MPM, which is payable upon achieving certain milestones and is not reimbursable. As of June 30, 2007, approximately $2.0 million of these payments had been made and were expensed in development expense as incurred. An additional $12.0 million in total may be paid by us in years six and seven of the amended and restated Management Agreement, subject to certain contingencies. Under the terms of the amended and restated Development Agreement, we have agreed to arrange financing for the ongoing development costs and construction of the project. As of June 30, 2007, we had advanced approximately $36.4 million toward the development of this project, primarily to complete the environmental assessment and secure real estate for the project, which is included in our condensed consolidated balance sheets. Funds advanced by us are expected to be repaid from the proceeds of the project financing or from Gun Lake’s gaming revenues. The amended and restated Management Agreement has a term of seven years from the opening of the facility and provides for a management fee of 30% of the project’s net income to be paid to MPM. Pursuant to the terms of the MPM Operating Agreement, our portion of the management fee is 50% of the first $24 million of management fees earned, 83% of the next $24 million of management fees and 93% of any management fees in excess of $48 million.

18




8.   Future Development (Continued)

The proposed project will be located on approximately 146 acres on Highway 131 near 129th Avenue, approximately 25 miles north of Kalamazoo, Michigan. As currently contemplated, the project will include slot machines, table games, a buffet and specialty restaurants. Construction of the project includes the conversion of an existing 192,000 square-foot building into the casino and entertainment facility. Development of the gaming and entertainment project and operation of Class III gaming is subject to certain governmental and regulatory approvals, including, but not limited to, the Michigan legislature’s ratification of a gaming compact signed by the Governor of the State of Michigan, the DOI taking the land into trust on behalf of Gun Lake and approval of the Management Agreement by the NIGC. On February 27, 2004, the DOI issued a Finding Of No Significant Impact with respect to the proposed project. On May 13, 2005, the DOI published in the Federal Register a Notice of Final Agency Determination (the “Determination”) to take certain land into trust for the benefit of Gun Lake. The publication commenced a thirty-day period in which interested parties could seek judicial review of the Determination. On June 13, 2005, Michigan Gambling Opposition filed a complaint (the “Complaint”) in the United States District Court, District of Columbia, seeking declaratory and injunctive relief against the DOI and officials of the DOI. The Complaint seeks judicial review of the Determination. On July 27, 2005, Gun Lake filed a motion to intervene in that lawsuit. On September 1, 2005, the District Court granted Gun Lake’s motion to intervene. On January 6, 2006, Gun Lake filed a motion for judgment on the pleadings or, in the alternative, for summary judgment. Also on January 6, 2006, the DOI filed a motion to dismiss or, in the alternative, for summary judgment. By May 2006, all responsive pleadings had been filed and the case was ready for consideration by the District Court. On October 27, 2006, the Department of Justice filed a Notice with the District Court indicating that the DOI planned to take the 146-acre site into trust on January 5, 2007, if the plaintiffs did not seek injunctive relief or failed to persuade the court to issue any relief precluding the DOI from doing so. The DOI subsequently amended that date to March 5, 2007, in order to provide the Court sufficient time to render its decision. The Court set oral arguments on the parties’ motions to dismiss or, in the alternative, for summary judgment for November 29, 2006. Oral arguments were heard on that date. On February 23, 2007, the District Court issued its decision in favor of the DOI and Gun Lake, finding that there were no facts which would entitle plaintiffs to any relief on the four issues raised in the Complaint, and granted the parties’ motion to dismiss or, in the alternative for summary judgment (the “Dispositive Motions”). On March 1, 2007, the plaintiffs filed a motion for stay pending appeal with the District Court. On March 5, 2007, the District Court granted the plaintiffs’ motion for stay pending appeal, thereby precluding the DOI from taking the site into trust for the benefit of Gun Lake until the District Court’s decision granting the Dispositive Motions has been reviewed on appeal. On March 22, 2007, plaintiffs filed a notice of appeal of the District Court’s decision granting the Dispositive Motions with the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. On May 21, 2007, the plaintiffs filed their appellate brief. On July 6, 2007, the DOI and Gun Lake filed their responsive briefs. On July 30, 2007, the plaintiffs filed their reply brief. The appeal has been fully briefed and the parties are awaiting a hearing date for oral arguments. As with all litigation, no assurances can be provided as to the outcome of that lawsuit.

On March 9, 2007, Gun Lake and the State of Michigan entered into a tribal-state Class III gaming compact. The compact is subject to approval by the Michigan Legislature and, if approved, will regulate gaming at Gun Lake’s proposed gaming and entertainment project to be developed on the site. No assurances can be provided as to whether the Michigan Legislature will approve the compact. Prior to obtaining third-party financing, we will contribute significant financial support to the project. The timing of this type of project is difficult to predict and is dependent upon the receipt of the necessary governmental and regulatory approvals. There can be no assurances when or if these approvals will be obtained.

19




8.   Future Development (Continued)

Mechoopda Indian Tribe

We have entered into Development and Management Agreements with the Mechoopda Indian Tribe of Chico Rancheria, California (the “MITCR”), a federally recognized Native American tribe. Pursuant to those agreements, we will assist the MITCR in developing and operating a gaming and entertainment facility to be located on a portion of approximately 650 acres in Butte County, California, at the intersection of State Route 149 and Highway 99, approximately 10 miles southeast of Chico, California and 80 miles north of Sacramento, California. Under the terms of the Development Agreement, we have agreed to arrange the financing for the ongoing development costs and construction of the facility. Funds advanced by us are expected to be repaid from the proceeds of the facility financing or from the MITCR’s gaming revenues. As of June 30, 2007, we had advanced approximately $9.2 million toward the development of this project, primarily to complete the environmental impact study and secure real estate for the project, which is included in our condensed consolidated balance sheets. In addition, we have agreed to pay approximately $2.2 million of payments upon achieving certain milestones, which will not be reimbursed. As of June 30, 2007, $50,000 of these payments had been made and were expensed in development expense as incurred. The Management Agreement has a term of seven years from the opening of the facility and provides for a management fee of 24% of the facility’s net income. As currently contemplated, the facility will include slot machines, table games and dining and entertainment amenities. Development of the facility is subject to certain governmental and regulatory approvals, including, but not limited to, negotiating a gaming compact with the State of California, the DOI accepting land into trust on behalf of the MITCR and approval of the Management Agreement by the NIGC. Prior to obtaining third-party financing, we will contribute significant financial support to the project. The timing of this type of project is difficult to predict and is dependent upon the receipt of the necessary governmental and regulatory approvals. There can be no assurances when or if these approvals will be obtained.

North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indian Tribe

We have entered into Development and Management Agreements with the North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians (the “Mono”), a federally recognized Native American tribe located near Fresno, California. Pursuant to those agreements, we will assist the Mono in developing and operating a gaming and entertainment facility to be located in Madera County, California. We have purchased, for the benefit of the Mono, a 305-acre parcel of land located on Highway 99 north of the city of Madera. Under the terms of the Development Agreement, we have agreed to arrange the financing for the ongoing development costs and construction of the facility. Funds advanced by us are expected to be repaid from the proceeds of the project financing or from the Mono’s gaming revenues. As of June 30, 2007, we had advanced approximately $11.8 million toward the development of this project, primarily to complete the environmental impact study and secure real estate for the project, which is included in our condensed consolidated balance sheets. In addition, we have agreed to pay approximately $1.3 million of payments upon achieving certain milestones, which will not be reimbursed. These payments will be expensed as incurred. As of June 30, 2007, none of these payments had been made. The Management Agreement has a term of seven years from the opening of the facility and provides for a management fee of 24% of the facility’s net income. As currently contemplated, the facility will include slot machines, table games, restaurants, a hotel and entertainment amenities. Development of the gaming and entertainment project is subject to certain governmental and regulatory approvals, including, but not limited to, negotiating a gaming compact with the State of California, the DOI accepting the land into trust on behalf of the Mono and approval of the Management Agreement by the NIGC. Prior to obtaining third-party financing, we will contribute significant financial support to the project. The timing of this type of project is difficult to predict, and is dependant upon the receipt of the necessary governmental and regulatory approvals. There can be no assurances when or if these approvals will be obtained.

20




8.   Future Development (Continued)

Land Held for Development

As of June 30, 2007, we had $231.4 million of land held for development that consists primarily of six sites that are owned or leased, which comprise 220 acres in the Las Vegas valley, 140 acres in the Sacramento area near Thunder Valley and 118 acres in Reno, Nevada. The primary gaming entitled land that we own in the Las Vegas valley consists of 68 acres located at the intersection of Durango Road and the Southern Beltway/Interstate 215 in the southwest area of Las Vegas, 49 acres also located in southwest Las Vegas at the intersection of Flamingo Road and Interstate 215, 61 acres located on the southern end of Las Vegas Boulevard at Cactus Avenue of which we lease and have an option to purchase 2.5 acres and 30 acres on Boulder Highway at the site formerly known as Castaways Hotel Casino and Bowling Center.

We have also acquired or are under contract to acquire approximately 94 acres of land on which Wild Wild West is located and the surrounding area, of which approximately 55 acres have been acquired as of June 30, 2007. During the six months ended June 30, 2006, we incurred and expensed approximately $0.5 million to terminate various leases related to this land. In 2003, we exercised our option to purchase the 19-acre parcel of leased land on which Wild Wild West is located which was to occur in July 2005 at a purchase price of approximately $36 million. We have extended the date for the close of escrow to no later than January 2009. Additionally, the lease expense was reduced from $2.9 million to $1.6 million per year beginning in July 2005. No amounts related to this purchase option have been recorded on our condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Our decision whether to proceed with any new gaming or development opportunity is dependent upon future economic and regulatory factors, the availability of financing and competitive and strategic considerations. As many of these considerations are beyond our control, no assurances can be made that it will be able to secure additional, acceptable financing in order to proceed with any particular project.

9.   Retirement Plans

We have two unfunded defined benefit plans which were adopted on November 30, 1994. The Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (the “SERP”), is for our Chief Executive Officer and President as sole participants. The Supplemental Management Retirement Plan (the “SMRP”), is for certain key executives (other than the Chief Executive Officer and President) as selected by the Governance and Compensation Committee to participate in the SMRP.

The components of the net periodic pension benefit cost related to the SERP and SMRP consist of the following (in thousands):

 

 

Three months ended 
June 30,

 

Six months ended
June 30,

 

 

 

    2007    

 

    2006    

 

2007

 

2006

 

Service cost

 

 

$

513

 

 

 

$

518

 

 

$

1,025

 

$

1,035

 

Interest cost

 

 

466

 

 

 

420

 

 

932

 

840

 

Amortization of prior service cost

 

 

78

 

 

 

78

 

 

156

 

156

 

Amortization of actuarial losses

 

 

158

 

 

 

186

 

 

317

 

373

 

Net periodic pension cost

 

 

$

1,215

 

 

 

$

1,202

 

 

$

2,430

 

$

2,404

 

 

10.   Income Taxes

For the three months ended June 30, 2007 and 2006 our effective tax rate was 44% and 39%, respectively. For the six months ended June 30, 2007 and 2006 our effective tax rate was 45% and 38%, respectively. The increase in the effective tax rate from the prior year is a result of expenses related to the Merger with FCP described in Note 1, which may not be tax deductible.

21




10.   Income Taxes (Continued)

As discussed in Note 1, we adopted FIN 48 as of January 1, 2007. As a result of the adoption, we recognized a $3.0 million increase in our tax liabilities. The cumulative effect upon adoption was accounted for as a reduction to the January 1, 2007 balance of retained earnings in an amount of $0.5 million, while interest upon adoption totaled $0.2 million.

The total amount of tax benefits that, if recognized in future periods, would impact the effective tax rate was $0.3 million upon adoption. We do not anticipate any significant increases or decreases in amounts or unrecognized tax benefits for the year ended December 31, 2007.

We recognize interest and penalties accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. As of January 1, 2007, we had $0.2 million accrued for the payment of interest. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2007, we recognized $0.1 million and $0.2 million, respectively, in interest on income taxes. We do not anticipate any penalty assessments associated with our FIN 48 liability.

Station or our subsidiaries file income tax returns as prescribed by the laws of the jurisdictions in which it operates. We are no longer subject to U.S. federal tax examination, the only major tax jurisdiction where we file, for years before 2003.

22




Item 2.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

(unaudited)

Overview

The following table highlights the results of our operations as compared to the prior period (dollars in thousands, unaudited):

 

 

Three months ended
June 30,

 

Percent

 

Six months ended
June 30,

 

Percent

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

change

 

2007

 

2006

 

change

 

Net revenues—total

 

$

362,896

 

$

341,791

 

 

6.2

%

 

$

735,334

 

$

634,261

 

15.9

%

Major Las Vegas Operations(a)

 

327,141

 

305,256

 

 

7.2

%

 

662,145

 

559,976

 

18.2

%

Management fees(b)

 

23,614

 

23,984

 

 

(1.5

)%

 

48,442

 

49,884

 

(2.9

)%

Other operations and corporate(c)

 

12,141

 

12,551

 

 

(3.3

)%

 

24,747

 

24,401

 

1.4

%

Operating income—total

 

$

82,016

 

$

76,588

 

 

7.1

%

 

$

174,772

 

$

155,690

 

12.3

%

Major Las Vegas Operations(a)

 

75,966

 

84,813

 

 

(10.4

)%

 

167,673

 

170,254

 

(1.5

)%

Management fees(b)

 

23,614

 

23,984

 

 

(1.5

)%

 

48,442

 

49,884

 

(2.9

)%

Other operations and corporate(c)

 

(17,564

)

(32,209

)

 

45.5

%

 

(41,343

)

(64,448

)

35.9

%

Cash flows provided by (used in):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating activities

 

$

91,198

 

$

69,280

 

 

31.6

%

 

$

222,055

 

$

133,649

 

66.1

%

Investing activities

 

(123,544

)

(223,637

)

 

44.8

%

 

(167,275

)

(448,472

)

62.7

%

Financing activities

 

21,591

 

168,319

 

 

(87.2

)%

 

(66,529

)

319,745

 

(120.8

)%


(a)           Includes the wholly owned properties of Palace Station, Boulder Station, Texas Station, Sunset Station, Santa Fe Station, Red Rock (since April 18, 2006), Fiesta Rancho and Fiesta Henderson.

(b)          Includes management fees from Thunder Valley, Green Valley Ranch, Barley’s and The Greens.

(c)           Includes the wholly owned properties of Wild Wild West, Wildfire, Magic Star, Gold Rush, Lake Mead Lounge (since October 1, 2006) and corporate and development expense.

Results of Operations

Consolidated net revenues for the three months ended June 30, 2007 increased 6.2% to $362.9 million as compared to $341.8 million for the three months ended June 30, 2006. Consolidated net revenues for the six months ended June 30, 2007 increased 15.9% to $735.3 million as compared to $634.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2006. The increase in net revenues was due primarily to revenue increases at our Major Las Vegas Operations. 

Combined net revenues from our Major Las Vegas Operations increased 7.2% to $327.1 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to $305.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 2006. Combined net revenues from our Major Las Vegas Operations increased 18.2% to $662.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to $560.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2006.  The increase is a result of the opening of Red Rock on April 18, 2006, the completion of the phase II master-planned expansion at Red Rock in December 2006, which included an additional 400 rooms, the completion of a 72-lane bowling center at Red Rock in April 2007, as well as the completion of recent expansions at Santa Fe Station and Fiesta Henderson. Combined net revenues from our Major Las Vegas Operations, excluding Red Rock, increased 2% during the three-month period ended June 30, 2007 and

23




decreased less than 1% during the six-month period ended June 30, 2007, as compared to the same periods in the prior year.

Consolidated operating income increased 7.1% for the three months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to the three months ended June 30, 2006. During the three months ended June 30, 2006 our operating income was impacted by $13.6 million of preopening expenses as compared to $1.0 million during the three months ended June 30, 2007.  In addition, during the three months ended June 30, 2007 we incurred $3.8 million in management agreement/lease termination costs and $6.1 million in costs related to the merger transaction (the “Merger”) with Fertitta Colony Partners LLC (“FCP”) described in Note 1 to the condensed consolidated financial statements, which impacted our operating margin. Excluding these items, our operating income increased 3.1% during the three months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to the same period in the prior year. Consolidated operating margin increased slightly to 22.6% for the three months ended June 30, 2007 from 22.4% for the three months ended June 30, 2006.

Consolidated operating income increased 12.3% for the six months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to the six months ended June 30, 2006.  During the six months ended June 30, 2006, our operating income was impacted by $27.7 million of preopening expenses as compared to $1.0 million during the six months ended June 30, 2007. In addition, we incurred $3.8 million in management agreement/lease termination costs during the six months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to $0.5 million in the six months ended June 30, 2006.  During the six months ended June 30, 2007 our operating income was also impacted by $10.9 million in costs related to the Merger. Excluding these items, our operating income increased 3.6% during the six months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to the same period last year. Consolidating operating margin decreased to 23.8% for the six months ended June 30, 2007 from 24.5% for the six months ended June 30, 2006 as a result of higher operating expenses at Santa Fe Station and Fiesta Henderson due to the recent expansions.  In addition, prior experience has demonstrated that new facilities initially do not operate as efficiently as more mature facilities.  As a result, the operating margins at Red Rock have been improving but have been lower than we expect them to be in the future.

The following table highlights the various sources of our revenues and expenses as compared to the prior periods (dollars in thousands, unaudited):

 

 

Three months ended
June 30,

 

Percent

 

Six months ended
June 30,

 

Percent

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

Change

 

2007

 

2006

 

Change

 

Casino revenues

 

$

256,459

 

$

245,137

 

 

4.6

%

 

$

521,154

 

$

461,360

 

 

13.0

%

 

Casino expenses

 

96,982

 

86,949

 

 

11.5

%

 

192,282

 

161,129

 

 

19.3

%

 

Margin

 

62.2

%

64.5

%

 

 

 

 

63.1

%

65.1

%

 

 

 

 

Food and beverage revenues

 

$

62,865

 

$

56,276

 

 

11.7

%

 

$

124,428

 

$

95,147

 

 

30.8

%

 

Food and beverage expenses

 

43,992

 

41,423

 

 

6.2

%

 

87,054

 

67,999

 

 

28.0

%

 

Margin

 

30.0

%

26.4

%

 

 

 

 

30.0

%

28.5

%

 

 

 

 

Room revenues

 

$

28,556

 

$

21,619

 

 

32.1

%

 

$

59,304

 

$

38,640

 

 

53.5

%

 

Room expenses

 

9,130

 

7,839

 

 

16.5

%

 

18,546

 

13,383

 

 

38.6

%

 

Margin

 

68.0

%

63.7

%

 

 

 

 

68.7

%

65.4

%

 

 

 

 

Other revenues

 

$

19,515

 

$

17,862

 

 

9.3

%

 

$

36,943

 

$

31,834

 

 

16.0

%

 

Other expenses

 

7,493

 

6,820

 

 

9.9

%

 

13,720

 

11,403

 

 

20.3

%

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses

 

$

60,896

 

$

58,157

 

 

4.7

%

 

$

122,824

 

$

102,780

 

 

19.5

%

 

Percent of net revenues

 

16.8

%

17.0

%

 

 

 

 

16.7

%

16.2

%

 

 

 

 

Corporate expense

 

$

17,403

 

$

16,472

 

 

5.7

%

 

$

38,713

 

$

32,759

 

 

18.2

%

 

Percent of net revenues

 

4.8

%

4.8

%

 

 

 

 

5.3

%

5.2

%

 

 

 

 

Earnings from joint ventures

 

$

9,353

 

$

9,917

 

 

(5.7

)%

 

$

20,869

 

$

21,840

 

 

(4.4

)%

 

 

24




Casino.   Casino revenues increased 4.6% to $256.5 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to $245.1 million for the three months ended June 30, 2006. The increase in casino revenues is primarily due to the same factors affecting the combined net revenues for our Major Las Vegas Operations noted above. Casino expenses increased 11.5% to $97.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to $86.9 million for the three months ended June 30, 2006.  The increase is primarily due to the completion of the phase II master-planned expansion at Santa Fe Station in December 2006, which included 400 additional slot machines and a remodeled and expanded race and sports book as well as the opening of the phase II master-planned expansion at Fiesta Henderson, which included an additional 350 slot machines and a remodeled and expanded sports book.

Casino revenues increased 13.0% to $521.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to $461.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2006. Casino expenses increased 19.3% to $192.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to $161.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2006. The increase in revenues and expenses is due to the expansions at Santa Fe Station and Fiesta Henderson as noted above, as well as the opening of Red Rock in April 2006, which includes over 3,400 slot machines and 60 table games.

Food and Beverage.   Food and beverage revenues increased 11.7% for the three months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to the same period in 2006 primarily due to the opening of Red Rock in April 2006 resulting in a full quarter of operations in 2007 compared to 73 days in 2006, as well as the completion of a 500-seat Feast Buffet at Santa Fe Station in December 2006. For the six months ended June 30, 2007, food and beverage revenues increased 30.8% as compared to the same period in 2006, due to the opening of Red Rock in April 2006, which included the addition of nine restaurants, and the opening of the Feast Buffet at Santa Fe Station as noted above. Food and beverage expenses increased 6.2% and 28.0% for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2006 due to the same factors affecting food and beverage revenue noted above. The food and beverage operating margin increased 3.6 percentage points and 1.5 percentage points for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007, respectively, as compared to the same periods in the prior year.

Food covers increased 8.2% for the three months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to the three months ended June 30, 2006 due to the opening of the 500-seat Feast Buffet at Santa Fe Station as noted above. Food covers increased 18.2% for the six months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to the six months ended June 30, 2006 due to the opening of Red Rock in April 2006 and the buffet at Santa Fe Station in December 2006. The average guest check increased 2.2% and 5.3%, respectively, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2006 due to an increase in selected menu prices at our other operations.

Room.   Room revenues increased 32.1% and 53.5% for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007, respectively, as compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2006. Room expenses increased 16.5% and 38.6% for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007, respectively, as compared to the same periods in 2006 due to the opening of Red Rock on April 18, 2006 with over 400 rooms and the opening of over 400 additional rooms in December 2006.  Room occupancy decreased to 92% for the three months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to 96% for the three months ended June 30, 2006. For the six months ended June 30, 2007 room occupancy decreased to 93%, compared to 97% for the six months ended June 30, 2006. The average daily room rate increased to $94 and $95 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007, respectively, from $75 and $71 in the same three and six month periods, respectively, primarily due to an average daily room rate of $181 and $190 for three and six months ended June 30, 2007, respectively, at Red Rock.

Other.   Other revenues primarily include income from gift shops, bowling, entertainment, leased outlets and the spa. Other revenues increased 9.3% to approximately $19.5 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to approximately $17.9 million for the three months ended June 30,

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2006, primarily due to the opening of a 72-lane bowling center at Red Rock in April 2007.  Other revenues increased 16.0% to approximately $36.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to approximately $31.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2006, primarily due to the opening of Red Rock in April 2006 with a full-service spa and several lease outlets including a 16-screen movie theater complex in addition to the opening of a 72-lane bowling center in April 2007.

Management Fees.   We manage Thunder Valley on behalf of the United Auburn Indian Community (the “UAIC”) and receive a management fee equal to 24% of net income (as defined in the management agreement). In addition, we are the managing partner for Green Valley Ranch, Barley’s and The Greens and receive a management fee equal to 2% of revenues and approximately 5% of Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization (“EBITDA”) from Green Valley Ranch and 10% of EBITDA from Barley’s and The Greens. For the three months ended June 30, 2007, management fees decreased slightly to approximately $23.6 million as compared to $24.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2006. For the six months ended June 30, 2007, management fees decreased to approximately $48.4 million as compared to $49.9 for the six months ended June 30, 2006. The decrease is a result of lower net income at Thunder Valley offset by increases at Green Valley Ranch as a result of the recently completed expansion.

Selling, General and Administrative (“SG&A”).   SG&A expenses increased 4.7% and 19.5% for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007, respectively, compared to the same periods in the prior year primarily due to the opening of Red Rock in the second quarter of 2006 and the recently completed expansions at Santa Fe Station and Fiesta Henderson. SG&A as a percentage of net revenues decreased to 16.8% for the three months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to 17.0% for the three months ended June 30, 2006.  For the six months ended June 30, 2007, SG&A as a percentage of net revenues increased to 16.7% as compared to 16.2% for the six months ended June 30, 2006.

Corporate Expense.   Corporate expense as a percentage of net revenues remained constant at 4.8% for the three months ended June 30, 2007 and 2006. For the six months ended June 30, 2007, corporate expense as a percentage of net revenues increased to 5.3% from 5.2% for the six months ended June 30, 2006. Corporate expense increased 5.7% to $17.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to $16.5 million for the three months ended June 30, 2006. Corporate expense increased 18.2% to $38.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to $32.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2006. The increase during the three and six months ended June 30, 2007 is primarily due to approximately $6.1 million and $10.9 million, respectively, in expenses related to costs associated with the Merger with FCP described in Note 1 to the condensed consolidated financial statements, which was offset by a reduction in corporate incentive compensation. 

Development Expense.   Development expense includes costs to identify potential gaming opportunities, the internal costs incurred to bring the Native American projects currently under contract to fruition and other development opportunities, which include payroll, travel and legal expenses.  Development expenses for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007 were approximately $1.9 million and $4.2 million, respectively.  For the three and six months ended June 30, 2006, development expenses were approximately $2.5 million and $4.7 million, respectively.

Depreciation and Amortization.   Depreciation and amortization increased 27.5% for the three months ended June 30, 2007 to $40.0 million as compared to $31.4 million in the three months ended June 30, 2006. Depreciation and amortization increased 40.6% for the six months ended June 30, 2007 to $80.2 million as compared to $57.0 million in the six months ended June 30, 2006. The increase was due to the completion of phase I of Red Rock in April 2006, phase II of Red Rock in January 2007, the bowling center at Red Rock in April 2007, the phase III master-planned expansion at Santa Fe Station in December 2006 and portions of the phase II master-planned expansion at Fiesta Henderson in August 2006.

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Preopening Expenses.   Preopening expenses for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007 were $1.0 million. Preopening expenses for the three and six months ended June 30, 2006 were approximately $13.6 million and $27.7 million, respectively, which included costs related to projects under development, including Red Rock.

Management agreement/lease termination.   During the three and six months ended June 30, 2007 we recorded $3.8 million to terminate the management agreement related to Cherry nightclub at Red Rock.

Earnings from Joint Ventures.   We own a 50% interest in various joint ventures, including Green Valley Ranch and Barley’s, and a 6.7% interest in a joint venture that owns the Palms Casino Resort. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2007, we recorded approximately $9.4 million and $20.9 million, respectively, as our share of the earnings from these joint ventures as compared to approximately $9.9 million and $21.8 million, respectively, for the same periods in the prior year. The decrease in earnings from joint ventures for both the three and six month periods is primarily a result of $1.7 million related to our 50% portion of costs to terminate a management agreement and a lease agreement at Green Valley Ranch offset by improved operating results at Green Valley Ranch due to the recently completed expansion.

Interest Expense.   Interest expense, net of capitalized interest, increased 38.5% to $57.3 million in the three months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to $41.3 million in the three months ended June 30, 2006. Gross interest expense increased approximately $14.3 million due to an increase in our long-term debt by approximately $392 million from June 30, 2006 to June 30, 2007, and an increase in our weighted-average cost of debt to 6.9% from 6.5% for the three months ended June 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively. Capitalized interest decreased approximately $1.6 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to the three months ended June 30, 2006 primarily due to the completion of the phase II master-planned expansion of Red Rock in January 2007 and the phase III master-planned expansion at Santa Fe Station in December 2006.

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest, increased 74.6% to $113.8 million in the six months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to $65.2 million in the six months ended June 30, 2006. Gross interest expense increased approximately $39.5 million due to an increase in our long-term debt as noted above. Our weighted-average cost of debt increased to 6.9% for the six months ended June 30, 2007 from 6.5% for the six months ended June 30, 2006. Capitalized interest decreased approximately $9.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007 as compared to the same period in the prior year primarily due to the completion of the phase I and II master-planned expansions of Red Rock in April 2006 and January 2007, respectively.

Interest and Other Expense from Joint Ventures.   We recorded approximately $7.0 million and $1.5 million in interest and other expense related to our unconsolidated joint ventures for the three months ended June 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively.  For the six months ended June 30, 2007 and 2006, we recorded approximately $12.9 million and $3.0 million, respectively, in interest and other expense related to our unconsolidated joint ventures. The increase in interest and other expense is the result of the new $830 million credit facility Green Valley Ranch entered into on February 16, 2007 which increased debt by $586 million as well as $0.8 million related to a loss on early retirement of debt related to the prior credit facility.

Income Tax Provision.   For the three months ended June 30, 2007 and 2006 our effective tax rate was 44% and 39%, respectively.  For the six months ended June 30, 2007 and 2006 our effective tax rate was 45% and 38%, respectively. The increase in the effective tax rate is a result of expenses related to the Merger with FCP described in Note 1 to the condensed consolidated financial statements, which may not be tax deductible.

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Liquidity and Capital Resources

The following liquidity and capital resources discussion contains certain forward-looking statements with respect to our business, financial condition, results of operations, dispositions, acquisitions, expansion projects and our subsidiaries, which involve risks and uncertainties that cannot be predicted or quantified, and consequently, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied herein. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, financial market risks, the ability to maintain existing management, integration of acquisitions, competition within the gaming industry, the cyclical nature of the hotel business and gaming business, economic conditions, regulatory matters and litigation and other risks described in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. In addition, construction projects such as Aliante and the expansions at Red Rock and Fiesta Henderson entail significant risks, including shortages of materials or skilled labor, unforeseen regulatory problems, work stoppages, weather interference, floods and unanticipated cost increases. The anticipated costs and construction periods are based on budgets, conceptual design documents and construction schedule estimates. There can be no assurance that the budgeted costs or construction period will be met. All forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and projections about future events.

During the six months ended June 30, 2007, we generated cash flows from operating activities of approximately $222.1 million. In addition, we received $285 million from Green Valley Ranch which includes a $185 million distribution and a $100 million promissory note. At June 30, 2007, we had total available borrowings of $2.0 billion under the Revolving Facility, which was reduced by borrowings of $1.02 billion and various letters of credit totaling approximately $9.9 million, leaving approximately $967.0 million available as of June 30, 2007.  We had $105.1 million in cash and cash equivalents as of June 30, 2007, virtually all of which is used for day-to-day operations of our casinos.

During the six months ended June 30, 2007, total capital expenditures were $212.7 million, of which approximately $40.7 million was related to phase II and III master-planned expansions of Red Rock, approximately $38.1 million was related to construction of the new corporate office building, approximately $42.3 million was for the purchase of land, approximately $18.1 million was for the phase III master-planned expansion at Santa Fe Station, approximately $10.1 million was for the phase II master-planned expansion at Fiesta Henderson and approximately $63.4 million was for maintenance and various other projects.

Our primary cash requirements for the remainder of 2007 are expected to include (i) approximately $20.0 million for the phase III expansion of Red Rock, (ii) approximately $15.0 million for the phase II expansion of Fiesta Henderson, (iii) costs associated with the Merger transaction with FCP described in Note 1 to the condensed consolidated financial statements, (iv) payments of cash dividends, (v)  principal and interest payments on indebtedness, (vi) payments related to our existing and other potential Native American projects, (vii) maintenance and other capital expenditures, (viii) other strategic land purchases and (ix) equity contributions to joint ventures.

We believe that cash flows from operations, borrowings under our Revolving Facility and existing cash balances will be adequate to satisfy our anticipated uses of capital during the remainder of 2007.  However, we are continually evaluating our financing needs.  If more attractive financing alternatives or expansion, development or acquisition opportunities become available to us, we may amend our financing plans assuming such financing would be permitted under our existing debt agreements (see “Description of Certain Indebtedness and Capital Stock”) and other applicable agreements.

It is anticipated that the funds necessary to consummate the Merger with FCP and related transactions described in Note 1 to the condensed consolidated financial statements will be funded by new credit facilities and equity financing.  Our capitalization, liquidity and capital resources will change substantially if the Merger is approved by our stockholders and the related financing transactions are completed.  Upon closing of the financing transactions, we will be highly leveraged.  Our liquidity

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requirements will be significant, primarily due to debt service and lease expense requirements and financing costs related to the indebtedness and lease expense expected to be incurred in connection with the closing of the Merger.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

As of June 30, 2007, we have certain off-balance sheet arrangements that affect our financial condition, liquidity and results of operations, which include interest rate swaps with a notional amount of $550.0 million (see “Description of Certain Indebtedness and Capital Stock—Interest Rate Swaps”). We also have certain contractual obligations including long-term debt, operating leases, employment contracts, long-term stay on agreements, slot conversion purchases and the purchase of land. There were no material changes to our contractual obligations previously reported in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, as amended, for the year ended December 31, 2006.

Future Development—Las Vegas

Red Rock Expansion

In April 2007, we completed a 72-lane bowling center as part of a $60 million to $65 million phase III master-planned expansion of Red Rock, which will also include an expansion of the west parking garage.  Construction of the parking garage expansion is still underway and is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2007.  Approximately $45.6 million had been incurred as of June 30, 2007.

Fiesta Henderson Expansion

In August 2006, we opened a 1,500-space parking garage, a remodeled and expanded race and sports book and added 300 additional slot machines as part of a $75 million phase II master-planned expansion at Fiesta Henderson.  A 12-screen movie theater complex is still under construction and is expected to be completed in the fall of 2007. Approximately $66.3 million had been incurred on the expansion as of June 30, 2007.

Green Valley Ranch Expansion

In October 2006, we opened an additional 1,200-space parking garage, a new race and sports book, a new poker room and two new restaurants as part of the $115 million phase III master-planned expansion at Green Valley Ranch. The entertainment lounge opened in May 2007. Approximately $114.5 million had been incurred on the expansion as of June 30, 2007.

Aliante Station

In December 2005, we entered into an agreement with the Greenspun Corporation to develop Aliante Station, a hotel and casino in the Aliante master-planned community located in North Las Vegas, Nevada. We will develop and manage the facility, to be located on a gaming-entitled 40-acre site on the northeast corner of Interstate 215 and Aliante Parkway, which was contributed by the Greenspun Corporation for their 50% ownership in the joint venture. We will receive a management fee equal to 2% of the property’s revenues and approximately 5% of EBITDA. The first phase of Aliante Station is expected to include 200 hotel rooms, approximately 3,000 slot machines, multiple full-service restaurants and a multi-screen movie theater complex. Construction on Aliante Station began in February 2007 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2008. The total project cost is expected to be approximately $675 million. Pursuant to the terms of the agreement, in January 2006, we contributed a 54 acre site located on Losee Road in North Las Vegas, Nevada, as well as approximately $2.2 million, for our 50% ownership in the joint venture. As of June 30, 2007, we have contributed an additional $23.5 million to fund design and development costs.

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Rancho Road

In December 2006, we entered into an amended and restated operating agreement with FBLV Holding Company LLC (“FBLV”). Pursuant to the amended and restated operating agreement, the parties contributed approximately 52 acres (with approximately 20 acres contributed by us for our 50% ownership and approximately 32 acres contributed by FBLV for their 50% ownership) of improved and unimproved real property located along Rancho Road south of Palace Station in Las Vegas, Nevada into a joint venture. It is anticipated that the joint venture will develop, construct and manage, pursuant to a master development plan, a mixed-use residential, retail and entertainment (excluding non-restricted gaming) project on all or a portion of such property. The timing, cost and scope of the project have yet to be determined. As of June 30, 2007, we have contributed an additional $12.9 million to fund design and development costs.

Future Development—Native American

The Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria

We have entered into Development and Management Agreements with the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria (the “FIGR”), a federally recognized Native American tribe. Pursuant to those agreements, we will assist the FIGR in developing and operating a gaming and entertainment project to be located in Sonoma County, California. The FIGR selected us to assist them in designing, developing and financing their project and, upon opening, we will manage the facility on behalf of the FIGR. The Management Agreement has a term of seven years from the opening of the facility and we will receive a management fee equal to 24% of the facility’s net income. We will also receive a development fee equal to 2% of the cost of the project upon the opening of the facility.

In October 2003, the FIGR entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Rohnert Park. In August 2005, we purchased 270 acres of land just west of the Rohnert Park city limits in Sonoma County, California. In March 2006, we purchased an additional 4.7 acres adjacent to the previously acquired property.  The property purchased is approximately one-quarter mile from Highway 101 and approximately 43 miles from downtown San Francisco.  Development of the gaming and entertainment project is subject to certain governmental and regulatory approvals, including, but not limited to, negotiating a gaming compact with the State of California, the Department of Interior (“DOI”) accepting the land into trust on behalf of the FIGR and approval of the Management Agreement by the NIGC. Prior to obtaining third-party financing, we will contribute significant financial support to the project. As of June 30, 2007, we had advanced approximately $134.6 million toward the development of this project, primarily to complete the environmental impact study and secure real estate for the FIGR project, which is included in our condensed consolidated balance sheets.  Funds advanced by us are expected to be repaid from the proceeds of the project financing or from the FIGR’s gaming revenues. In addition, we have agreed to pay approximately $11.3 million upon achieving certain milestones, which will not be reimbursed. As of June 30, 2007, approximately $2.0 million of these payments had been made and were expensed in development expense as incurred. The timing of this type of project is difficult to predict and is dependent upon the receipt of the necessary governmental and regulatory approvals. There can be no assurances when or if these approvals will be obtained.

Gun Lake Tribe

On November 13, 2003, we agreed to purchase a 50% interest in MPM Enterprises, LLC, a Michigan limited liability company (“MPM”). Concurrently with our agreement to purchase that interest, MPM and the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians, a federally recognized Native American tribe commonly referred to as the Gun Lake Tribe (“Gun Lake”), entered into amended Development and Management Agreements, pursuant to which MPM agreed to assist Gun Lake in developing and operating a gaming and entertainment project to be located in Allegan County, Michigan. On July 29, 2005, MPM and Gun Lake entered into amended and restated Development and Management Agreements.  We have

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agreed to pay $6.0 million for our 50% interest in MPM, which is payable upon achieving certain milestones and is not reimbursable. As of June 30, 2007, approximately $2.0 million of these payments had been made and were expensed in development expense as incurred. An additional $12.0 million in total may be paid by us in years six and seven of the amended and restated Management Agreement, subject to certain contingencies. Under the terms of the amended and restated Development Agreement, we have agreed to arrange financing for the ongoing development costs and construction of the project. As of June 30, 2007, we had advanced approximately $36.4 million toward the development of this project, primarily to complete the environmental assessment and secure real estate for the project, which is included in our condensed consolidated balance sheets. Funds advanced by us are expected to be repaid from the proceeds of the project financing or from Gun Lake’s gaming revenues. The amended and restated Management Agreement has a term of seven years from the opening of the facility and provides for a management fee of 30% of the project’s net income to be paid to MPM. Pursuant to the terms of the MPM Operating Agreement our portion of the management fee is 50% of the first $24 million of management fees earned, 83% of the next $24 million of management fees and 93% of any management fees in excess of $48 million.

The proposed project will be located on approximately 146 acres on Highway 131 near 129th Avenue, approximately 25 miles north of Kalamazoo, Michigan. As currently contemplated, the project will include up to 2,500 slot machines, 75 table games, a buffet and specialty restaurants. Construction of the project includes the conversion of an existing 192,000 square-foot building into the casino and entertainment facility. Development of the gaming and entertainment project and operation of Class III gaming is subject to certain governmental and regulatory approvals, including, but not limited to, the Michigan legislature’s ratification of a gaming compact signed by the Governor of the State of Michigan, the DOI taking the land into trust on behalf of Gun Lake and approval of the Management Agreement by the NIGC. On February 27, 2004, the DOI issued a Finding Of No Significant Impact with respect to the proposed project. On May 13, 2005, the DOI published in the Federal Register a Notice of Final Agency Determination (the “Determination”) to take certain land into trust for the benefit of Gun Lake. The publication commenced a thirty-day period in which interested parties could seek judicial review of the Determination. On June 13, 2005, Michigan Gambling Opposition filed a complaint (the “Complaint”) in the United States District Court, District of Columbia, seeking declaratory and injunctive relief against the DOI and officials of the DOI. The Complaint seeks judicial review of the Determination. On July 27, 2005, Gun Lake filed a motion to intervene in that lawsuit. On September 1, 2005, the District Court granted Gun Lake’s motion to intervene. On January 6, 2006, Gun Lake filed a motion for judgment on the pleadings or, in the alternative, for summary judgment. Also on January 6, 2006, the DOI filed a motion to dismiss or, in the alternative, for summary judgment. By May 2006, all responsive pleadings had been filed and the case was ready for consideration by the District Court. On October 27, 2006, the Department of Justice filed a Notice with the District Court indicating that the DOI planned to take the 146-acre site into trust on January 5, 2007, if the plaintiffs did not seek injunctive relief or failed to persuade the court to issue any relief precluding the DOI from doing so. The DOI subsequently amended that date to March 5, 2007, in order to provide the Court sufficient time to render its decision. The Court set oral arguments on the parties’ motions to dismiss or, in the alternative, for summary judgment for November 29, 2006. Oral arguments were heard on that date. On February 23, 2007, the District Court issued its decision in favor of the DOI and Gun Lake, finding that there were no facts which would entitle plaintiffs to any relief on the four issues raised in the Complaint, and granted the parties’ motion to discuss or, in the alternative for summary judgment (the “Dispositive Motions”). On March 1, 2007, the plaintiffs filed a motion for stay pending appeal with the District Court. On March 5, 2007, the District Court granted the plaintiffs’ motion for stay pending appeal, thereby precluding the DOI from taking the site into trust for the benefit of Gun Lake until the District Court’s decision granting the Dispositive Motions has been reviewed on appeal.  On March 22, 2007, plaintiffs filed a notice of appeal of the District Court’s decision granting the Dispositive Motions with the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.  On May 21, 2007,

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the plaintiffs filed their appellate brief.  On July 6, 2007, the DOI and Gun Lake filed their responsive briefs. On July 30, 2007, the plaintiffs filed their reply brief.  The appeal has been fully briefed and the parties are awaiting a hearing date for oral arguments.  As with all litigation, no assurances can be provided as to the outcome of that lawsuit.

On March 9, 2007, Gun Lake and the State of Michigan entered into a tribal-state Class III gaming compact.  The compact is subject to approval by the Michigan Legislature and, if approved, will regulate gaming at Gun Lake’s proposed gaming and entertainment project to be developed on the site.  No assurances can be provided as to whether the Michigan Legislature will approve the compact.  Prior to obtaining third-party financing, we will contribute significant financial support to the project. The timing of this type of project is difficult to predict and is dependent upon the receipt of the necessary governmental and regulatory approvals. There can be no assurances when or if these approvals will be obtained.

Mechoopda Indian Tribe

We have entered into Development and Management Agreements with the Mechoopda Indian Tribe of Chico Rancheria, California (the “MITCR”), a federally recognized Native American tribe. Pursuant to those agreements, we will assist the MITCR in developing and operating a gaming and entertainment facility to be located on a portion of approximately 650 acres in Butte County, California, at the intersection of State Route 149 and Highway 99, approximately 10 miles southeast of Chico, California and 80 miles north of Sacramento, California. Under the terms of the Development Agreement, we have agreed to arrange the financing for the ongoing development costs and construction of the facility. Funds advanced by us are expected to be repaid from the proceeds of the facility financing or from the MITCR’s gaming revenues. As of June 30, 2007, we had advanced approximately $9.2 million toward the development of this project, primarily to complete the environmental impact study and secure real estate for the project, which is included in our condensed consolidated balance sheets. In addition, we have agreed to pay approximately $2.2 million of payments upon achieving certain milestones, which will not be reimbursed. As of June 30, 2007, $50,000 of these payments had been made and were expensed in development expense as incurred. The Management Agreement has a term of seven years from the opening of the facility and provides for a management fee of 24% of the facility’s net income. As currently contemplated, the facility will include approximately 700 slot machines, 12 table games and dining and entertainment amenities. Development of the facility is subject to certain governmental and regulatory approvals, including, but not limited to, negotiating a gaming compact with the State of California, the DOI accepting land into trust on behalf of the MITCR and approval of the Management Agreement by the NIGC. Prior to obtaining third-party financing, we will contribute significant financial support to the project. The timing of this type of project is difficult to predict and is dependent upon the receipt of the necessary governmental and regulatory approvals. There can be no assurances when or if these approvals will be obtained.

North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indian Tribe

We have entered into Development and Management Agreements with the North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians (the “Mono”), a federally recognized Native American tribe located near Fresno, California. Pursuant to those agreements, we will assist the Mono in developing and operating a gaming and entertainment facility to be located in Madera County, California. We have purchased, for the benefit of the Mono, a 305-acre parcel of land located on Highway 99 north of the city of Madera. Under the terms of the Development Agreement, we have agreed to arrange the financing for the ongoing development costs and construction of the facility. Funds advanced by us are expected to be repaid from the proceeds of the project financing or from the Mono’s gaming revenues. As of June 30, 2007 we had advanced approximately $11.8 million toward the development of this project, primarily to complete the environmental impact study and secure real estate for the project, which is included in our condensed consolidated balance sheets. In addition, we have agreed to pay approximately $1.3 million of payments upon achieving certain milestones, which will not be reimbursed. These payments will be expensed as

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incurred.  As of June 30, 2007, none of these payments had been made. The Management Agreement has a term of seven years from the opening of the facility and provides for a management fee of 24% of the facility’s net income. As currently contemplated, the facility will include approximately 2,000 slot machines, 60 table games, restaurants, a hotel and entertainment amenities. Development of the gaming and entertainment project is subject to certain governmental and regulatory approvals, including, but not limited to, negotiating a gaming compact with the State of California, the DOI accepting the land into trust on behalf of the Mono and approval of the Management Agreement by the NIGC. Prior to obtaining third-party financing, we will contribute significant financial support to the project. The timing of this type of project is difficult to predict, and is dependant upon the receipt of the necessary governmental and regulatory approvals. There can be no assurances when or if these approvals will be obtained.

Land Acquisition

We have acquired certain parcels of land as part of our development activities.  Our decision whether to proceed with any new gaming or development opportunity is dependent upon future economic and regulatory factors, the availability of financing and competitive and strategic considerations.  As many of these considerations are beyond our control, no assurances can be made that we will be able to secure additional, acceptable financing in order to proceed with any particular project. 

As of June 30, 2007, we had $231.4 million of land held for development that consists primarily of six sites that are owned or leased, which comprise 220 acres in the Las Vegas valley, 140 acres in the Sacramento area near Thunder Valley and 118 acres in Reno, Nevada. The primary gaming entitled land that we own in the Las Vegas Valley consists of 68 acres located at the intersection of Durango Road and the Southern Beltway/Interstate 215 in the southwest area of Las Vegas, 49 acres also located in southwest Las Vegas at the intersection of Flamingo Road and Interstate 215, 61 acres located on the southern end of Las Vegas Boulevard at Cactus Avenue of which we lease and have an option to purchase 2.5 acres and 30 acres on Boulder Highway at the site formerly known as Castaways Hotel Casino and Bowling Center. 

We have also acquired or are under contract to acquire approximately 94 acres of land on which Wild Wild West is located and the surrounding area, of which approximately 55 acres have been acquired as of June 30, 2007. During the six months ended June 30, 2006, we incurred and expensed approximately $0.5 million to terminate various leases related to this land.  In 2003, we exercised our option to purchase the 19-acre parcel of leased land on which Wild Wild West is located which was to occur in July 2005 at a purchase price of approximately $36 million. We have extended the date for the close of escrow to no later than January 2009. Additionally, the lease expense was reduced from $2.9 million to $1.6 million per year beginning in July 2005. No amounts related to this purchase option have been recorded on our condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Regulation and Taxes

We are subject to extensive regulation by the Nevada gaming authorities and will be subject to regulation, which may or may not be similar to that in Nevada, by any other jurisdiction in which we may conduct gaming activities in the future, including the NIGC and tribal gaming agency of the UAIC.

The gaming industry represents a significant source of tax revenue, particularly to the State of Nevada and its counties and municipalities. From time to time, various state and federal legislators and officials have proposed changes in tax law, or in the administration of such law, affecting the gaming industry. The Nevada Legislature concluded their 2007 session and there were no increases in taxes affecting the gaming industry. The Nevada Legislature meets again in 2009.

We believe that our recorded tax balances are adequate. However, it is not possible to determine with certainty the likelihood of possible changes in tax law or in the administration of such law, regulations or compact provisions. Such changes, if adopted, could have a material adverse effect on our operating results.

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Description of Certain Indebtedness and Capital Stock

Revolving Facility

In December 2005, we increased our availability under our revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Facility”) from $1.0 billion to $2.0 billion and extended the maturity by one year to December 2010. The Revolving Facility contains no principal amortization. The Borrowers are the major operating subsidiaries and the Revolving Facility is secured by substantially all of our assets. Borrowings under the Revolving Facility bear interest at a margin above the Alternate Base Rate or the Eurodollar Rate (each as defined in the Revolving Facility), as selected by us. The margin above such rates, and the fee on the unfunded portions of the Revolving Facility, will vary quarterly based on our combined consolidated ratio of debt to Adjusted EBITDA (as defined in the Revolving Facility). As of June 30, 2007, the Borrowers’ margin above the Eurodollar Rate on borrowings under the Revolving Facility was 1.75%. The maximum margin for Eurodollar Rate borrowings is 2.25%. The maximum margin for Alternate Base Rate borrowings is 1.00%. As of June 30, 2007, the fee for the unfunded portion of the Revolving Facility was 0.30%.

The Revolving Facility contains certain financial and other covenants, some of which were amended in June and September 2006. These include a maximum funded debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratio for the Borrowers combined of 4.00 to 1.00 for each quarter and a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio for the preceding four quarters for the Borrowers combined of 1.25 to 1.00 for each quarter. As of June 30, 2007, the Borrowers’ funded debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratio was 2.28 to 1.00 and the fixed charge coverage ratio was 1.63 to 1.00. In addition, the Revolving Facility has financial and other covenants, which require that the maximum consolidated funded debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratio can be no more than 7.00 to 1.00 through June 30, 2007, which reduces to 6.75 to 1.00 on September 30, 2007 through June 30, 2008, 6.50 to 1.00 on September 30, 2008 through December 31, 2008, 5.75 to 1.00 on March 31, 2009 through December 31, 2009 and to 5.00 to 1.00 on March 31, 2010. Other covenants limit prepayments of indebtedness or rent (including subordinated debt other than re-financings meeting certain criteria), asset dispositions, dividends, indebtedness, stock repurchases and investments. As of June 30, 2007, our consolidated funded debt to Adjusted EBITDA ratio was 5.74 to 1.00. We have pledged the stock of all of our major subsidiaries.

Senior and Senior Subordinated Notes

The indentures (the “Indentures”) governing our senior and senior subordinated notes (the “Notes”) contain certain customary financial and other covenants, which limit us and our subsidiaries’ ability to incur additional debt. At June 30, 2007, our Consolidated Coverage Ratio (as defined in the Indentures) was 2.25 to 1.00. The Indentures provide that we may not incur additional indebtedness, other than specified types of indebtedness, unless the Consolidated Coverage Ratio is at least 2.00 to 1.00. In the event our Consolidated Coverage Ratio is below 2.00 to 1.00, the covenant limits our ability to incur additional indebtedness for borrowings under the Revolving Facility not to exceed the greater of $200 million or 1.5 times Operating Cash Flow (as defined in the Indentures) for the four most recent quarters, plus $15 million. The Indentures also give the holders of the Notes the right to require us to purchase the Notes at 101% of the principal amount of the Notes plus accrued interest thereon upon a Change of Control and Rating Decline (each as defined in the Indentures) of the Company. In addition, the indenture governing the senior notes contains a limitation on liens we can incur.

Interest Rate Swaps

We have entered into various interest rate swaps with members of our bank group to manage interest expense. As of June 30, 2007, we had interest rate swaps with a combined notional amount of $550.0 million. We entered into a fair value hedge interest rate swap with a notional amount of $50.0 million tied directly to our 6% senior notes converting a portion of our fixed-rate debt to a floating-rate

34




based upon three-month LIBOR rates, terminating in April 2012. This interest rate swap qualifies for the “shortcut” method allowed under SFAS 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities” and as amended by SFAS 138 and 149, which allows for an assumption of no ineffectiveness. As such, there is no income statement impact from changes in the fair value of the hedging instrument. Instead, the fair value of the instrument is recorded as an asset or liability on our balance sheet with an offsetting adjustment to the carrying value of the related debt. In accordance with SFAS 133, we recorded a liability of $2.7 million and $2.2 million as of June 30, 2007 and December 31, 2006, respectively, representing the fair value of the interest rate swap and a corresponding decrease in long-term debt, as this interest rate swap is considered highly effective under the criteria established by SFAS 133. We paid a weighted average rate based on LIBOR, which approximated 7.0% at June 30, 2007 and received a fixed rate of 6.0%.

We have entered into two cash flow hedge interest rate swaps with a notional amount of $500.0 million tied directly to our Revolving Facility converting a portion of our floating-rate debt to a fixed-rate based on three-month LIBOR rates, terminating in December 2010. We paid a fixed rate of 5.1% and received three-month LIBOR which approximated 5.4% at June 30, 2007. These interest rate swaps are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges resulting in the effective portion of the gain or loss reported as a component of other comprehensive income (loss) with an offsetting adjustment to the carrying value of the related debt. As of June 30, 2007 and December 31, 2006, we recorded other comprehensive income of $2.1 million and other comprehensive loss of $1.4 million, respectively, related to the change in market value of these interest rate swaps and a corresponding decrease and increase, respectively, in long-term debt.

The difference between amounts received and paid under such agreements, as well as any costs or fees, is recorded as a reduction of, or an addition to, interest expense as incurred over the life of the swaps. The net effect of the interest rate swaps resulted in a reduction of interest expense of approximately $172,000 and $358,000 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007, respectively. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2006, the net effect of the interest rate swaps resulted in additional interest expense of approximately $53,000 and $82,000, respectively.

Green Valley Ranch Financing

On February 16, 2007, Green Valley Ranch entered into a new $830 million credit facility (the “Green Valley Facility”). The Green Valley Facility includes a $550 million first lien term loan due February 2014, a $250 million second lien term loan due August 2014 and a $30 million revolver due February 2012. At the time of close, the revolver was unfunded. Proceeds from the Green Valley Facility were used to repay outstanding borrowings under the previous revolving credit facility and term loan, as well as fund an equal distribution to the members which, was comprised of approximately $185 million in distributions to each member and a $100 million promissory note from each member, for a total of approximately $570 million. The $100 million promissory note is at an interest rate of 7% and matures on February 15, 2012.

Common Stock

We are authorized to issue up to 135 million shares of our common stock, $0.01 par value per share, 80,553,077 shares of which were issued and 23,276,927 shares of which were held in treasury as of June 30, 2007. Each holder of our common stock is entitled to one vote for each share held of record on each matter submitted to a vote of stockholders. Holders of our common stock have no cumulative voting, conversion, redemption or preemptive rights or other rights to subscribe for additional shares other than pursuant to the Rights Plan described below. Subject to any preferences that may be granted to the holders of our preferred stock, each holder of common stock is entitled to receive ratably, such dividends as may be declared by our Board of Directors out of funds legally available therefore, as well as any distributions

35




to the stockholders and, in the event of liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company, is entitled to share ratably in all of our assets that remain after payment of liabilities.

Dividends

During the six months ended June 30, 2007, we paid a quarterly cash dividend of $0.2875 per share to stockholders of record on February 26, 2007 and May 21, 2007 for approximately $32.9 million. During the six months ended June 30, 2006, we paid a quarterly cash dividend of $0.25 per share to stockholders of record on February 10, 2006 and May 12, 2006 for approximately $32.3 million.

Under the Merger Agreement described in Note 1 to the condensed consolidated financial statements, we are prohibited from making any dividends except for normal quarterly dividends from operations until the consummation of the Merger.

Preferred Stock

We are authorized to issue up to 5 million shares of our preferred stock, $0.01 par value per share of which none were issued. The Board of Directors, without further action by the holders of our common stock, may issue shares of preferred stock in one or more series and may fix or alter the rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions, including the voting rights, redemption provisions (including sinking fund provisions), dividend rights, dividend rates, liquidation rates, liquidation preferences, conversion rights and the description and number of shares constituting any wholly unissued series of preferred stock. Except as described above, our Board of Directors, without further stockholder approval, may issue shares of preferred stock with rights that could adversely affect the rights of the holders of our common stock. The issuance of shares of preferred stock under certain circumstances could have the effect of delaying or preventing a change of control of the Company or other corporate action.

Treasury Stock

During the three and six months ended June 30, 2007, we repurchased 8,564 and 31,176 shares, respectively, of our common stock for approximately $0.8 million and $2.7 million for the same periods, which were withheld to offset tax withholding obligations that occur upon vesting of restricted shares. As of June 30, 2007, we are authorized to repurchase approximately 7.5 million additional shares of our common stock.

Rights Plan

On October 6, 1997, we declared a dividend of one preferred share purchase right (a “Right”) for each outstanding share of common stock. The dividend was paid on October 21, 1997. Each Right entitles the registered holder to purchase from us one one-hundredth of a share of Series A Preferred Stock, par value $0.01 per share (“Preferred Shares”) at a price of $40.00 per one one-hundredth of a Preferred Share, subject to adjustment. The Rights are not exercisable until the earlier of 10 days following a public announcement that a person or group of affiliated or associated persons have acquired beneficial ownership of 15% or more of our outstanding common stock (“Acquiring Person”) or 10 business days (or such later date as may be determined by action of the Board of Directors prior to such time as any person or group of affiliated persons becomes an Acquiring Person) following the commencement of, or announcement of an intention to make a tender offer or exchange offer, the consummation of which would result in the beneficial ownership by a person or group of 15% or more of our outstanding common stock.

The Rights will expire on October 21, 2007. Acquiring Persons do not have the same rights to receive common stock as other holders upon exercise of the Rights. Because of the nature of the Preferred Shares’ dividend, liquidation and voting rights, the value of one one-hundredth interest in a Preferred Share purchasable upon exercise of each Right should approximate the value of one common share. In the event

36




that any person or group of affiliated or associated persons becomes an Acquiring Person, the proper provisions will be made so that each holder of a Right, other than Rights beneficially owned by the Acquiring Person (which will thereafter become void), will thereafter have the right to receive upon exercise that number of shares of common stock having a market value of two times the exercise price of the Right. In the event that the Company is acquired in a merger or other business combination transaction or 50% or more of our consolidated assets or earning power are sold after a person or group has become an Acquiring Person, proper provision will be made so that each holder of a Right will thereafter have the right to receive, upon exercise thereof, that number of shares of common stock of the acquiring company, which at the time of such transaction will have a market value of two times the exercise price of the Right. Because of the characteristics of the Rights in connection with a person or group of affiliated or associated persons becoming an Acquiring Person, the Rights may have the effect of making an acquisition of the Company more difficult and may discourage such an acquisition.

Prior to the execution of the Merger Agreement described in Note 1 to the condensed consolidated financial statements, the Special Committee took all action necessary to ensure that FCP, Merger Sub and their respective Affiliates and Associates as well as Existing Equity Holders, each as defined in the rights agreement (the “Rights Agreement”), dated as of October 6, 1997, entered into by and between Station and Continental Stock Transfer & Trust Company (“Continental”), are excepted from the definition of Acquiring Person in the Rights Agreement only to the extent each is a Beneficial Owner (as defined in the Rights Agreement) by entering into an Amendment to the Rights Agreement on February 23, 2007 (the “Amendment”), as a result of the approval, execution and delivery of the Merger Agreement or consummation of the transactions contemplated thereby.

Critical Accounting Policies

A description of our critical accounting policies can be found in Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K, as amended, for the year ended December 31, 2006. There were no material changes to our critical accounting policies during the six months ended June 30, 2007.

Forward-looking Statements

When used in this report and elsewhere by management from time to time, the words “believes”, “anticipates” and “expects” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements with respect to our financial condition, results of operations and our business including our expansion, development and acquisition projects, legal proceedings and employee matters. Certain important factors, including but not limited to, competition from other gaming operations, factors affecting our ability to complete acquisitions and dispositions of gaming properties, leverage, construction risks, the inherent uncertainty and costs associated with litigation and governmental and regulatory investigations, and licensing and other regulatory risks, could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements. Further information on potential factors which could affect our financial condition, results of operations and business including, without limitation, the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the Merger Agreement with Fertitta Colony Partners LLC, the outcome of any legal proceedings that have been, or will be, instituted against us related to the Merger Agreement, the inability to complete the Merger due to the failure to obtain stockholder approval for the Merger or the failure to satisfy other conditions to complete the Merger, including the receipt of all regulatory approvals related to the Merger, the failure to obtain the necessary financing arrangements set forth in the debt and equity commitment letters delivered pursuant to the Merger Agreement, risks that the proposed transaction disrupts current plans and operations and the potential difficulties in employee retention as a result of the Merger, the ability to recognize the benefits of the Merger, the amount of the costs, fees, expenses and charges related to the Merger and the actual terms of certain financings that will be obtained for the Merger, the impact of the substantial

37




indebtedness to be incurred to finance the consummation of the Merger, the expansion, development and acquisition projects, legal proceedings and employee matters are included in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any 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.

Item 3.                        Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

Market risk is the risk of loss arising from adverse changes in market rates and prices, such as interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and commodity prices. Our primary exposure to market risk is interest rate risk associated with our long-term debt. We attempt to limit our exposure to interest rate risk by managing the mix of our long-term fixed-rate borrowings and short-term borrowings under the Revolving Facility. Borrowings under the Revolving Facility bear interest at a margin above the Alternate Base Rate or the Eurodollar Rate (each as defined in the Revolving Facility) as selected by us. However, the amount of outstanding borrowings is expected to fluctuate and may be reduced from time to time. The Revolving Facility matures in December 2010.

The following table provides information about our long-term debt at June 30, 2007 (see also “Description of Certain Indebtedness and Capital Stock”) (amounts in thousands):

 

 

Maturity
date

 

Face
amount

 

Carrying
value

 

Estimated
fair value

 

Revolving Facility, weighted average interest rate of approximately 7.3%

 

December 2010

 

$

2,000,000

 

$

1,023,100

 

$

1,023,100

 

6% senior notes

 

April 2012

 

450,000

 

448,847

 

421,875

 

73¤4% senior notes

 

August 2016

 

400,000

 

400,000

 

396,000

 

61¤2% senior subordinated notes

 

February 2014

 

450,000

 

450,000

 

397,125

 

67¤8% senior subordinated notes

 

March 2016

 

700,000

 

707,127

 

614,250

 

65¤8% senior subordinated notes

 

March 2018

 

300,000

 

298,612

 

259,125

 

Other debt, weighted-average interest rate of approximately 7.1%

 

2007-2026

 

9,150

 

9,150

 

9,150

 

Market value of interest rate swaps

 

 

 

(4,855

)

(4,855

)

(4,855

)

Total

 

 

 

$

4,304,295

 

$

3,331,981

 

$

3,115,770

 

 

We are also exposed to market risk in the form of fluctuations in interest rates and their potential impact upon our debt. This market risk is managed by utilizing derivative financial instruments in accordance with established policies and procedures. We evaluate our exposure to market risk by monitoring interest rates in the marketplace, and do not utilize derivative financial instruments for trading purposes. Our derivative financial instruments consist exclusively of interest rate swap agreements. Interest differentials resulting from these agreements are recorded on an accrual basis as an adjustment to interest expense. Interest rate swaps related to debt are matched with specific debt obligations.

38




The following table provides information about our financial instruments that are sensitive to changes in interest rates (amounts in thousands):

 

 

As of June 30,

 

 

 

2007

 

2008

 

2009

 

2010

 

2011

 

Thereafter

 

Total

 

Long-term debt (including current portion):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fixed-rate

 

$

 

$

 

$

5,335

 

$

 

$

 

$

2,304,585

 

$

2,309,920

 

Weighted-average interest
rate

 

 

 

6.0

%

 

 

6.7

%

6.7

%

Variable-rate

 

$

580

 

$

98

 

$

106

 

$

1,023,215

 

$

125

 

$

2,792

 

$

1,026,916

 

Weighted-average interest
rate

 

8.6

%

8.6

%

8.6

%

7.3

%

8.6

%

8.6

%

7.3

%

Interest rate swaps:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notional amount

 

$

 

$

 

$

 

$

500,000

 

$

 

$

50,000

 

$

550,000

 

Average payable rate

 

 

 

 

5.1

%

 

7.0

%

5.3

%

Average receivable rate

 

 

 

 

5.4

%

 

6.0

%

5.4

%

 

Item 4.                        Controls and Procedures

As of the end of the period covered by this report, the Company conducted an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the principal executive officer and principal financial officer, of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”)). Based on this evaluation, the principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in Securities and Exchange Commission rules and forms. There was no change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the Company’s most recently completed fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

39




Part II—OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.                        Legal Proceedings

The Company and its subsidiaries are defendants in various lawsuits relating to routine matters incidental to our business. As with all litigation, no assurance can be provided as to the outcome of the matters and litigation inherently involves significant costs. Following is a summary of key litigation impacting the Company. We believe that the plaintiffs’ claims are without merit and do not expect that the lawsuits will have a material adverse effect on our financial position or results of operations.

Litigation Relating to the Merger

We are aware of six lawsuits that challenge either the Merger Agreement or the proposal leading up to the Merger Agreement. They are as follows:

On December 4, 2006, Helen Roessler filed a purported class action complaint in the District Court of Clark County, Nevada (the “District Court”), Case No. A532367, against Station, our Board of Directors and Fertitta Colony Partners LLC (“FCP”). The complaint alleges that the defendants breached their fiduciary duties and challenges the proposed transaction as inadequate and unfair to Station’s public stockholders. The complaint seeks, among other relief, class certification of the lawsuit and an injunction against the proposed transaction. Three similar putative class actions were subsequently filed in the District Court: Goldman v. Station Casinos, Inc., et al., Case No. A532395, filed on December 4, 2006; Traynor v. Station Casinos, Inc., et al., Case No. A532407, filed on December 4, 2006; and Filhaber v. Station Casinos, Inc., et al., Case No. A532499, filed on December 5, 2006. These four actions are collectively referred to as the “Initial Lawsuits.”

On January 2, 2007, David Griffiths filed a purported class action complaint in the District Court against Station, our Board of Directors, Blake L. Sartini and Delise F. Sartini, Colony, Colony Capital Acquisitions, LLC (“Colony Acquisitions”) and FCP. The complaint alleges that Station’s Board of Directors breached their fiduciary duties and the remaining defendants aided and abetted the alleged breaches of fiduciary duties in connection with the proposed transaction. The complaint seeks, among other relief, class certification of the lawsuit, an injunction against the proposed transaction, declaratory relief, the imposition of a constructive trust upon the defendants, and an award of attorneys’ fees and expenses to plaintiffs.

On January 4, 2007, the District Court consolidated the Initial Lawsuits under the heading In Re Station Casino’s Shareholder Litigation and appointed lead counsel and liaison counsel in connection therewith. On January 29, 2007, plaintiff Griffiths filed a motion to vacate the District Court’s order appointing lead counsel and to establish a briefing schedule on motions to appoint lead plaintiff and lead counsel. At the March 5, 2007 hearing on this motion, the plaintiff’s motion was denied.

On February 14, 2007, the West Palm Beach Firefighters’ Pension Fund filed a purported class and derivative action complaint in District Court against Station’s Board of Directors, Thomas J. Barrack, Jr., Blake L. Sartini and Delise F. Sartini, Colony, Colony Acquisitions, FCP, Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas and German American Capital Corporation. The complaint alleges, among other things, that Station breached its fiduciary duties and the remaining defendants aided and abetted the alleged breaches of fiduciary duty in connection with the proposed transaction. The complaint seeks, among other relief, class certification of the lawsuit, an injunction against the proposed transaction unless and until Station adopts and implements a fair sale process, the disclosure of all material information to Station’s stockholders, the imposition of a constructive trust upon the defendants, and an award of attorneys’ fees and expenses to plaintiffs.

40




All of the above-referenced actions have been consolidated into a single action under the heading In re Station Casinos Shareholder Litigation, Master Case No. A-532367, Dept. No. 13, District Court, Clark County, Nevada.

On June 1, 2007, the plaintiffs filed an amended consolidated class action complaint (the “Amended Complaint”) in the District Court against Station, Station’s directors, Frank J. Fertitta III, Lorenzo J. Fertitta, Blake L. Sartini and Delise F. Sartini, Colony, Colony Acquisitions and FCP. The Amended Complaint alleges that Station’s directors breached their fiduciary duties to Station and its stockholders as follows:

A.    The defendants failed to engage in a fair process that would maximize value to Station’s stockholders because the defendants put into place covenants in Station’s bond indentures that could, under certain circumstances, require a purchaser of Station not affiliated with Frank J. Fertitta III and Lorenzo J. Fertitta to redeem those bonds, put into place a stockholder rights plan and a staggered board, adopted a supermajority voting requirement in connection with any merger transaction and imposed a $160 million termination fee on Station.

B.     The process being used to sell Station is wrongful, unfair and harmful and is an attempt by the defendants to aggrandize their personal and financial positions. It does not reflect the true inherent value of Station that was known only to the defendants. This value, which far exceeds the $90.00 per share merger consideration, includes the returns from Red Rock, the Company’s Native American casino-management contracts and the expected returns from Aliante Station and other expansion projects.

C.     The directors have not and are not exercising independent business judgment and have acted and are acting to the detriment of the plaintiff class. In particular, the members of the Special Committee are not independent of Frank J. Fertitta III and Lorenzo J. Fertitta, were handpicked for Station’s Board of Directors by Frank J. Fertitta III and Lorenzo J. Fertitta, are loyal and beholden to them and will do what Frank J. Fertitta III and Lorenzo J. Fertitta tell them to do. The Special Committee failed to properly shop Station, artificially depressing the value of Station’s stock, thereby depriving plaintiffs of the right to receive the maximum value for their shares. They are taking steps to avoid competitive bidding, to cap the price of Station stock and to give FCP and other members of the buying group an unfair advantage by, among other things, failing to solicit other potential acquirers or alternative transactions.

D.    The Company’s preliminary proxy statement filed with the SEC on May 7, 2007 (the “Preliminary Proxy Statement”) misrepresented material facts and omits material information necessary for stockholders to make an informed decision concerning the transaction because, in part, it did not discuss whether the defendants considered alternative transaction forms, nor did it properly detail the sale process.

E.     The Preliminary Proxy Statement did not detail whether Bear, Stearns & Co., Inc. (“Bear Stearns”), financial advisor to the Special Committee, performed any sensitivity studies or whether it valued Station assuming Station would be split into separate operating and holding companies. The Preliminary Proxy Statement also failed to detail the proper valuation for Station, or the basis for the valuation. In addition, Bear Stearns is in a conflict position because it owns 36,639 shares of Station common stock.

The Amended Complaint also alleges that Frank J. Fertitta III, Lorenzo J. Fertitta, Blake L. Sartini, Delise F. Sartini, FCP, Colony and Colony Acquisitions knowingly aided and abetted the Company’s directors in breaching their fiduciary duties to the Company’s public stockholders.

The Amended Complaint seeks an injunction preliminarily and permanently enjoining the defendants from proceeding with, consummating or closing the proposed merger transaction, and demands that the plaintiffs be awarded their costs and disbursements incurred in connection with this action, including reasonable attorneys’ fees and reimbursement of expenses.

41




Station believes all of the allegations of wrongdoing in the Amended Complaint to be without merit, denies any wrongdoing, denies that information in the definitive proxy statement is false or misleading, and denies that any material information is omitted from the definitive proxy statement. In addition, Station has been advised that the other defendants named in the Amended Complaint similarly believe the allegations of wrongdoing in the Amended Complaint to be without merit, and deny any breach of duty to or other wrongdoing with respect to the plaintiff class.

In order to resolve the litigation and avoid further cost and delay, Station and the individual defendants, without admitting any wrongdoing, agreed to make certain further disclosures in the Company’s definitive proxy statement filed with the SEC on July 9, 2007, as requested by counsel for the plaintiffs in the litigation. It is anticipated that after further discovery all parties will cooperate in seeking dismissal of the litigation. Such dismissal, including an anticipated request by plaintiffs’ counsel for attorneys’ fees, will be subject to court approval.

Item 1A.                Risk Factors

A description of our risk factors can be found in Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K, as amended, for the year ended December 31, 2006. There were no material changes to those risk factors during the six months ended June 30, 2007.

Item 2.                        Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

The table below sets forth the information with respect to purchases made by or on behalf of the Company of its common stock during the three months ended June 30, 2007 (unaudited):

Period

 

 

 

Total number
of shares
purchased(a)

 

Average price
paid per share

 

Total number of
shares purchased
as part of publicly
announced plans
or programs(b)

 

Maximum number
of shares that may
yet be purchased
under the plans
or programs

 

April 1 – 30, 2007

 

 

4,004

 

 

 

$

87.52

 

 

 

 

 

 

7,475,284

 

 

May 1 – 31, 2007

 

 

1,075

 

 

 

$

87.60

 

 

 

 

 

 

7,475,284

 

 

June 1 – 30, 2007

 

 

3,485

 

 

 

$

87.75

 

 

 

 

 

 

7,475,284

 

 

Total

 

 

8,564

 

 

 

 

 

$

87.64

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7,475,284

 

 


(a)           The shares purchased by the Company during the three months ended June 30, 2007, consisted of 8,564 shares withheld to offset tax withholding obligations that occur upon vesting of the restricted shares.

(b)          On July 24, 2006, the Board of Directors authorized the Company to repurchase up to 10 million shares of its common stock.

Item 3.                        Defaults Upon Senior Securities—None.

Item 4.                        Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders—None.

Item 5.                        Other Information—None.

Item 6.                        Exhibits

(a)

 

Exhibits—

 

 

No. 31.1—Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

No. 31.2—Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

No. 32.1—Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

No. 32.2—Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

42




SIGNATURE

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

STATION CASINOS, INC.,

 

Registrant

DATE: August 9, 2007

/s/ THOMAS M. FRIEL

 

Thomas M. Friel,

 

Executive Vice President,

 

Chief Accounting Officer and Treasurer

 

(Principal Accounting Officer)

 

43