UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
(Mark One)
ý |
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003
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 (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) |
88-0136443 (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) |
2411 West Sahara Avenue, Las Vegas, Nevada 89102
(Address of principal executive offices, Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (702) 367-2411
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
| Title of each class Common Stock, $0.01 Par Value |
Name of each exchange on which registered New York Stock Exchange |
|---|
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
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 ý No o
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to the Form 10-K. ý
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer. Yes ý No o
The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates (all persons other than executive officers or directors) of the registrant as of June 30, 2003, based on the closing price per share of $25.25 as reported on the New York Stock Exchange was $1,001,689,720.
As of March 1, 2004, the registrant has 62,838,829 shares of common stock outstanding.
Documents Incorporated by Reference
Portions of the Proxy Statement for the Registrant's 2004 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held May 19, 2004 (which has not been made publicly available as of the date of this filing) are incorporated by reference into Part III.
Unless the context indicates otherwise, all references to the "Company" refer to Station Casinos, Inc. and all references to "Station", "we", "our", "ours" and "us" refer to Station Casinos, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries.
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, financial market 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 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, development and construction risks, regulatory matters and litigation 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.
General
We are a gaming and entertainment company that currently owns and operates eight major hotel/casino properties (one of which is 50% owned) and three smaller casino properties (one of which is 50% owned), in the Las Vegas metropolitan area, as well as manages a casino for a Native American tribe. Our growth strategy includes the master-planned expansion of our existing gaming facilities in Nevada, the development of gaming facilities on certain real estate we own in the Las Vegas valley, the evaluation and pursuit of additional acquisition or development opportunities in Nevada and other gaming markets and the pursuit of additional management agreements with Native American tribes.
We own and operate Palace Station Hotel & Casino ("Palace Station"), Boulder Station Hotel & Casino ("Boulder Station"), Texas Station Gambling Hall & Hotel ("Texas Station"), Sunset Station Hotel & Casino ("Sunset Station"), Santa Fe Station Hotel & Casino ("Santa Fe Station"), Fiesta Rancho Casino Hotel ("Fiesta Rancho"), Fiesta Henderson Casino Hotel ("Fiesta Henderson"), Wild Wild West Gambling Hall & Hotel ("Wild Wild West") and Wildfire Casino ("Wildfire"). We also own a 50% interest in Green Valley Ranch Station Casino ("Green Valley Ranch Station") and Barley's Casino & Brewing Company ("Barley's"). Each of our casinos caters primarily to local Las Vegas area residents. We market the six "Station" casinos (including Green Valley Ranch Station) together under the Station Casinos' brand and the two "Fiesta" casinos under the Fiesta brand, offering convenience and choices to residents throughout the Las Vegas valley with our strategically located properties. In addition, we manage Thunder Valley Casino ("Thunder Valley") in Sacramento, California on behalf of the United Auburn Indian Community ("UAIC").
Operating Strategy
We believe that the following key principles have been integral to our success as a gaming operator and we intend to continue to employ these strategies at each of our properties.
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Targeted Customer Base
Our operating strategy emphasizes attracting and retaining customers primarily from the local and repeat visitor markets. Our casino properties attract customers through innovative, frequent and high-profile promotional programs directed towards the local market, focused marketing efforts and convenient locations, aggressive marketing to the repeat visitor market and the development of strong relationships with specifically targeted travel wholesalers. Although perceived value initially attracts a customer to our casino properties, actual value generates customer satisfaction and loyalty. We believe that actual value becomes apparent during the customer's visit through an enjoyable, affordable and high-quality entertainment experience. Las Vegas, which is and has been one of the fastest growing cities in the United States, is characterized by a historically strong economy and demographics, which include an increasing number of retirees and other active gaming customers. We believe that our out-of-town patrons are also discerning customers who enjoy our value-oriented, high-quality approach. We believe that our patrons view our hotel and casino product as a preferable alternative to attractions located on the Las Vegas Strip and downtown Las Vegas. In markets outside of Las Vegas we believe customers come from farther distances, a radius in some cases more than 150 miles; however, the business model for local customers remains the same.
Provide a High-Value Experience
Because we target the repeat customer, we are committed to providing a high-value entertainment experience for our customers in our restaurants, hotels, casinos and other entertainment amenities. We develop regional entertainment destinations for locals that include other amenities such as movie theaters, bowling centers, live entertainment venues and child care facilities. In addition, we believe the value offered by restaurants at each of our casino properties is a major factor in attracting local gaming customers, as dining is a primary motivation for casino visits by many locals. Through their restaurants, each of which has a distinct theme and style of cuisine, our casino properties offer generous portions of high-quality food at reasonable prices. In addition, our operating strategy focuses on slot and video poker machine play. Our target market consists of frequent gaming patrons who seek not only a friendly atmosphere and convenience, but also higher than average payout rates. Because locals and repeat visitors demand variety and quality in their slot and video poker machine play, our casino properties offer the latest in slot and video poker technology, including several games designed exclusively for Station Casinos.
As part of our commitment to providing a quality entertainment experience for our patrons, we are dedicated to ensuring a high level of customer satisfaction and loyalty by providing attentive customer service in a friendly, casual atmosphere. We recognize that consistent quality and a comfortable atmosphere stem from the collective care and friendliness of each employee. We began as a family-run business, and have maintained close-knit relationships among our management and we endeavor to instill among our employees this same sense of loyalty. Toward this end, we take a hands-on approach through active and direct involvement with employees at all levels.
Marketing and Promotion
We employ an innovative marketing strategy that utilizes frequent high profile promotional programs in order to attract customers and establish a high level of name recognition. In addition to aggressive marketing through television, radio and newspaper advertising, we have created and sponsored such promotions as "Paycheck Bonanza" and "Great Giveaway," a popular football season contest. These promotions have become a tradition in the locals' market and have had a positive impact upon our patronage during their respective promotion periods.
We are heavily focused on using cutting edge technology to drive customer traffic with products such as our Jumbo Brand products, which include "Jumbo Jackpots", "Jumbo Bingo" and "Jumbo Poker".
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Other products include "Xtra Play Cash" and "Sports Connection", among others. We believe that these products create sustainable competitive advantages and distinguish us from our competitive set.
In 1999, we introduced a unified Boarding Pass player rewards program at our Station properties. The Boarding Pass program allows guests to earn points based on their level of gaming activity. These points can then be redeemed for food, entertainment and merchandise at any of our Station properties. We believe that this "single card", for which the technology was developed in-house, sets us apart from our competition in the Las Vegas locals' market. The Fiesta properties offer a similar player rewards program called the Amigo Club. Members of the Boarding Pass and the Amigo Club can redeem points at any of our properties for meals in any of the restaurants, for hotel rooms, movie passes, show tickets or for merchandise in our gift shops.
Casino Properties
Set forth below is certain information as of December 31, 2003, concerning our properties, all of which we own and/or operate except as otherwise indicated. The properties are more fully described following the table.
| Property |
Hotel Rooms |
Slots(1) |
Gaming Tables(2) |
Parking Spaces(3) |
|||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Casino Properties | |||||||||
| Palace Station | 1,012 | 1,926 | 46 | 2,600 | |||||
| Boulder Station | 300 | 2,890 | 42 | 4,800 | |||||
| Texas Station | 200 | 2,505 | 38 | 5,900 | |||||
| Sunset Station | 457 | 2,762 | 54 | 7,100 | |||||
| Santa Fe Station | 200 | 2,150 | 29 | 3,750 | |||||
| Green Valley Ranch Station (50% owned) | 201 | 2,204 | 48 | 3,400 | |||||
| Fiesta Rancho | 100 | 1,724 | 18 | 2,300 | |||||
| Fiesta Henderson | 224 | 1,409 | 23 | 2,300 | |||||
| Other Properties | |||||||||
| Wild Wild West | 261 | 236 | 6 | 600 | |||||
| Barley's (50% owned) | | 199 | 8 | | |||||
| Wildfire (4) | | 236 | | 200 | |||||
| Thunder Valley (5) | | 1,906 | 111 | 4,500 | |||||
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Palace Station
Palace Station is strategically located on approximately 38 acres at the intersection of Sahara Avenue and Interstate 15, one of Las Vegas' most heavily traveled areas. Palace Station is a short distance from McCarran International Airport and from major attractions on the Las Vegas Strip and downtown Las Vegas. Palace Station features a turn-of-the-20th-century railroad station theme with non-gaming amenities including seven full-service restaurants, several fast-food outlets, a 250-seat entertainment lounge, four additional bars, two swimming pools, an approximately 20,000-square foot banquet and convention center, a 24-hour gift shop and a non-gaming video arcade.
Palace Station's seven full-service restaurants have a total of approximately 1,230 seats. These restaurants offer a variety of high-quality food at reasonable prices, including the 24-hour Palace Cafe (featuring American and Chinese fare), an all-you-can-eat buffet known as "The Feast," Broiler (a steak and seafood restaurant), Pasta Palace (an Italian restaurant), Guadalajara Bar & Grille (a Mexican restaurant), Jack's Irish Pub and a 17-seat Oyster Bar. In addition to these restaurants, Palace Station offers various fast-food outlets. Palace Station's guests may also enjoy the Laugh Trax Comedy Club.
Boulder Station
Boulder Station, which opened in August 1994, is strategically located on approximately 46 acres on Boulder Highway and immediately adjacent to the Interstate 515 interchange. We believe that this highly visible location at this well-traveled intersection offers a competitive advantage relative to existing hotels and casinos located on Boulder Highway. Boulder Station is located approximately four miles east of the Las Vegas Strip and approximately four miles southeast of downtown Las Vegas. Boulder Station features a turn-of-the-20th-century railroad station theme with non-gaming amenities including five full-service restaurants, several fast-food outlets, a 750-seat entertainment lounge, seven additional bars, an 11-screen movie theater complex, a Kid's Quest child-care facility, a swimming pool, a non-gaming video arcade and a gift shop.
Boulder Station's five full-service restaurants have a total of over 1,400 seats. These restaurants offer a variety of high-quality meals at reasonable prices. Restaurant themes and menus are similar to Palace Station's, allowing Boulder Station to benefit from the market acceptance and awareness of this product. Restaurants include the 24-hour Boulder Cafe (featuring American and Chinese fare), an all-you-can-eat buffet known as "The Feast," Broiler (a steak and seafood restaurant), Pasta Palace (an Italian restaurant), and Guadalajara Bar & Grille (a Mexican restaurant). In addition to these restaurants, Boulder Station offers various fast-food outlets. Boulder Station's restaurants and bars are located in open settings that are designed to intermingle the dining and gaming experience.
Texas Station
Texas Station, which opened in July 1995, is strategically located on approximately 47 acres at the corner of Lake Mead Boulevard and Rancho Road in North Las Vegas. Texas Station features a friendly, "down-home" Texas atmosphere, highlighted by distinctive early Texas architecture with non-gaming amenities including five full-service restaurants, several fast-food outlets, a Kid's Quest child-care facility, a 300-seat entertainment lounge, a 1,700-seat event center, eight additional bars, an 18-screen movie theater complex, a swimming pool, a non-gaming video arcade, a gift shop, a 60-lane bowling center and approximately 40,000 square feet of meeting and banquet space. The theater complex and adjacent food court provide a competitive advantage for the property and are additional attractions that draw a significant number of patrons to Texas Station.
Texas Station's five full-service restaurants have a total of approximately 1,230 seats. These restaurant facilities offer a variety of high-quality food at reasonable prices, including the 24-hour Texas Cafe, Austin's Steakhouse, San Lorenzo (an Italian restaurant), The Feast Buffet (featuring seven different food stations) and Texas Star Oyster Bar, which has 110 seats. In addition to the Texas Station-themed restaurants, guests
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may also enjoy the unique features of several bars and lounges including the Martini Ranch, the Whiskey Bar, the Garage Bar, or the Armadillo Honky Tonk. Texas Station also offers a variety of fast-food outlets to enhance the customers' dining selection. The quality and variety of the restaurants offered at the facility are a major draw in the rapidly growing North Las Vegas market.
Sunset Station
Sunset Station, which opened in June 1997, is strategically located on approximately 82 acres at the intersection of Interstate 515 and Sunset Road. Multiple access points provide customers convenient access to the gaming complex and parking areas. Situated in a highly concentrated commercial corridor along Interstate 515, Sunset Station has prominent visibility from the freeway and the Sunset commercial corridor. Sunset Station is located approximately nine miles east of McCarran International Airport and approximately seven miles southeast of Boulder Station. Sunset Station features a Spanish/Mediterranean-style theme with non-gaming amenities including eight full-service restaurants themed to capitalize on the familiarity of the restaurants at our other properties, a 520-seat entertainment lounge and a 4,000-seat outdoor amphitheater, seven additional bars, a gift shop, a non-gaming video arcade, a 13-screen movie theater complex, a Kid's Quest child-care facility, and a swimming pool, as well as several fast-food outlets and franchises.
Sunset Station's eight full-service restaurants have a total of approximately 2,300 seats featuring "live-action" cooking and simulated patio dining. These restaurant facilities offer a variety of high-quality food at reasonable prices, including the 24-hour Sunset Cafe (featuring American and Chinese fare), Sonoma Cellar (a steakhouse), Costa Del Sol (a seafood restaurant), Capri (an Italian restaurant), Guadalajara Bar & Grille (a Mexican restaurant), The Feast Around the World, a live action buffet featuring Mexican, Italian, barbecue, American and Chinese cuisine, Hooter's and a 65-seat Oyster Bar. Guests may also enjoy the Gaudi Bar, a centerpiece of the casino featuring over 8,000 square feet of stained glass and a water light display. Sunset Station also offers a variety of fast-food outlets to enhance the customers' dining selection.
Santa Fe Station
On October 2, 2000, we purchased the Santa Fe Hotel & Casino and renamed the property "Santa Fe Station." Santa Fe Station is strategically located on approximately 38 acres at the intersection of Highway 95 and Rancho Road, approximately five miles northwest of Texas Station. Santa Fe Station features a Southwestern theme with non-gaming amenities including four full-service restaurants, several fast food outlets, a gift shop, a non-gaming video arcade, a swimming pool, a 250-seat entertainment lounge, five additional bars, a 60-lane bowling center, a regulation-sized ice skating arena and 10,000 square feet of meeting and banquet facilities. Santa Fe Station is currently being expanded. See "Expansion Strategy" for the detail of the expansion plan.
Santa Fe Station's four full-service restaurants have a total of approximately 850 seats, and include the 24-hour Santa Fe Cafe, Charcoal Room (a steakhouse), Cabo Restaurant (a Mexican restaurant) and Memphis Championship Barbecue. Santa Fe Station also offers a variety of fast-food outlets to enhance the customers' dining selection.
Green Valley Ranch Station
Green Valley Ranch Station, located at the intersection of Interstate 215 and Green Valley Parkway in Henderson, Nevada, opened on December 18, 2001. Green Valley Ranch Station is approximately five minutes from McCarran International Airport and seven minutes from the Las Vegas Strip. We jointly developed the project on 40 acres of a 170-acre multi-use commercial development with GCR Gaming. In addition to our 50% ownership, we are also the managing partner of Green Valley Ranch Station and
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receive a management fee equal to 2% of the property's revenues and approximately 5% of Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization ("EBITDA").
Green Valley Ranch Station was designed to complement the Green Valley master-planned community. The resort features a Mediterranean-style villa theme with non-gaming amenities including eight full-service restaurants, a fast-food court with six quick-serve outlets, a 4,200 square-foot non-gaming arcade, a state-of-the-art spa with outdoor pools, a 10-screen movie theater, a gift shop and approximately 20,000 square feet of meeting and convention space. Green Valley Ranch Station also offers "Whiskey Beach", an 8-acre complex featuring private poolside cabanas, luxurious open lawn areas, a contemporary poolside bar, three acres of vineyards and an outdoor performance venue. Green Valley Ranch Station is currently being expanded. See "Expansion Strategy" for the detail of the expansion plan.
Green Valley Ranch Station's eight full-service restaurants include China Spice (an Asian restaurant), Sushi Sake, Il Fornaio Cucina Italiano (an Italian restaurant), BullShrimp (featuring steak and seafood), Trophy's (a sports bar/restaurant), Fado's Irish Pub, The Original Pancake House and The Feast Around the World, a live action buffet featuring Mexican, Italian, barbecue, American and Chinese cuisine. Green Valley Ranch Station also offers a variety of fast-food outlets to enhance the customers' dining selection. Guests may also enjoy the Drop Bar, a centerpiece of the casino, and the Whiskey Bar, a 5,300 square-foot nightspot.
Fiesta Rancho
On January 4, 2001, we purchased the Fiesta Casino Hotel and renamed the property Fiesta Rancho in December 2001. Fiesta Rancho is strategically located on approximately 25 acres at the intersection of Lake Mead Boulevard and Rancho Road in North Las Vegas across from Texas Station. Fiesta Rancho features a Southwestern theme with non-gaming amenities including five full-service restaurants, several fast-food outlets, a gift shop, a non-gaming video arcade, a swimming pool, a 970-seat entertainment lounge and five additional bars. Fiesta Rancho is currently being expanded. See "Expansion Strategy" for the detail of the expansion plan.
Fiesta Rancho's five full-service restaurants have a total of over 1,100 seats, and include the 24-hour Cafe Fiesta (featuring American fare), Garduno's (a Mexican restaurant), Fiesta Steakhouse, Festival Buffet and Blue Agave Oyster Bar. Fiesta Rancho also offers a variety of fast-food outlets to enhance the customers' dining selection.
Fiesta Henderson
On January 30, 2001, we purchased The Reserve Hotel & Casino. In December 2001, the property was renamed Fiesta Henderson and was re-themed to our Fiesta brand. Fiesta Henderson is strategically located on approximately 46 acres at the intersection of Interstate 215 and Interstate 515. The property features four full-service restaurants, a gift shop, a swimming pool, three bars and lounges and meeting space.
Fiesta Henderson's four full-service restaurants have a total of approximately 1,070 seats, and include the 24-hour Baja Beach Cafe (featuring American and Chinese fare), Fuego Steakhouse, Garduno's (a Mexican restaurant) and the Festival Buffet.
Other Properties
Wild Wild West
Wild Wild West, which we acquired in July 1998, is strategically located on approximately 19 acres on Tropicana Avenue and immediately adjacent to Interstate 15. Wild Wild West offers non-gaming amenities including a full-service restaurant, a bar, a gift shop and a truck plaza.
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Barley's
Barley's, which opened in January 1996, is a casino and brew pub located in Henderson, Nevada. We are the managing partner and own a 50% interest in Barley's. Barley's offers non-gaming amenities including a full-service restaurant, a pizza kitchen and a bar.
Wildfire
We completed the purchase of the Wildfire in January 2003 for a total of $8.0 million. The Wildfire is located on Rancho Road in Las Vegas, across from Texas Station. Wildfire offers non-gaming amenities including a lounge, outdoor patio and a full-service restaurant.
Thunder Valley
We have entered into a Development Services Agreement and a Management Agreement with the UAIC. Pursuant to those agreements, and in compliance with a Memorandum of Understanding entered 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, in Placer County, California, near Sacramento, which opened on June 9, 2003. On September 17, 2002, the United States Department of the Interior accepted the land into trust on behalf of the UAIC. The acceptance of the land into trust followed the decision of the United States District Court for the District of Washington, D.C., dismissing a lawsuit filed by the cities of Roseville and Rocklin, California, and Citizens for Safer Communities, which challenged the United States Department of the Interior's decision to accept the land into trust. Immediately following the District Court's decision, the plaintiffs appealed the decision to the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia. On November 14, 2003, the Court of Appeals affirmed the dismissal of the lawsuit by the District Court. On February 15, 2004, the Citizens for Safer Communities filed a petition for writ of certiorari with the United States Supreme Court, seeking to appeal the decision of the Court of Appeals. The remaining plaintiffs did not seek to appeal that decision. Notwithstanding the Court of Appeals' decision and the acceptance of the land into trust, there can be no assurances as to the ultimate outcome of the Citizens for Safer Communities' pending efforts to appeal that decision.
Thunder Valley has 1,906 Class III slot machines, 111 table games, including a private VIP gaming area, a 500-seat bingo room, three specialty restaurants, a 500-seat buffet, a food court, a center pit bar and parking for over 4,500 vehicles. Our seven-year Management Agreement was approved by the National Indian Gaming Commission and expires in June 2010. We receive a management fee equal to 24% of the facility's net income. We also received a development fee equal to 2% of the cost of the project upon the opening of the facility.
Expansion Strategy
Selection Criteria
We believe that a highly visible location, convenient access and ample parking are critical factors in attracting local patronage and repeat visitors. Additionally, sites must be large enough to support multi-phased master-planned growth to capitalize on growing demand in incremental stages. We select sites that are located within a dense population base so that the facility cannot be cut-off from its primary market. These sites generally have been adjacent to high-traffic surface streets and interstate highways. We believe that each of our casino properties' locations has provided us with a significant competitive advantage to attract our targeted customer base. In Las Vegas, as a result of Senate Bill 208, there are a limited number of sites available for development off of "The Strip" or downtown and we control the majority of these sites.
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Master-Planned Development
Our expansion strategy includes the master-planned expansion of our existing and future gaming locations. In designing project sites, we plan and engineer for multi-phased facility expansion to accommodate future growth and to allow us to develop dominant properties in each market place. A project's master-planned design typically allows the option of adding hotel rooms, casino space, parking structures and non-gaming entertainment such as movie theaters, additional restaurants, retail shops and various other entertainment venues.
We continually evaluate the timing and scope of our master-planned developments at each of our properties and may determine from time to time to expand the scope of, improve on or suspend the implementation of our master plans. These decisions are dependent upon the availability of financing, competition and future economic and gaming regulatory environments, many of which are beyond our control. We currently have master plan expansions underway at Green Valley Ranch Station, Santa Fe Station and Fiesta Rancho.
In the fourth quarter of 2003, we began a $110 million expansion at Green Valley Ranch Station. The expansion will include 296 hotel rooms, 25,500 square feet of additional meeting space, approximately 200 slot machines and an expanded spa facility. Construction on the project is expected to be complete in the fourth quarter of 2004.
We are currently expanding Santa Fe Station, which will add more than 20,000 square feet of additional casino space, 350 slot machines, a new 16-screen movie theater complex, an upgrade of the property's bowling center, a new entertainment venue and bar, a new Kid's Quest facility and other amenities. The expansion project will also include the removal of the ice arena. We believe that the expansion will cost approximately $50 million and is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2005.
We plan to begin a 31,000 square-foot expansion project at Fiesta Rancho in April 2004, which will bring a new ice arena to the property, complete with concession area, pro shop, locker rooms and private special event rooms. We believe that the project will cost approximately $6.5 million and will be completed by September 2004.
Development and Acquisition Opportunities
We have acquired several parcels of land in the Las Vegas valley, which can be used for new development. We also evaluate other development and acquisition opportunities in current and emerging gaming markets, including land-based, dockside, riverboat and Native American gaming. Our decision whether to proceed with any new gaming development or acquisition opportunity is dependent upon future economic and regulatory factors, the availability of financing and competitive and strategic considerations, many of which are beyond our control.
Red Rock Station
We are developing Red Rock Station on Charleston Boulevard at the Interstate 215/Charleston interchange in Las Vegas. The initial phase of the property is expected to include 60 table games and 2,700 slot machines. The property is expected to also include 400 hotel rooms, 45,000 square feet of meeting space, 16 movie theaters, a 20,000 square foot spa facility and several restaurants, including a buffet. The cost of the project is expected to be approximately $450 million to $475 million, of which approximately $74 million has been spent as of December 31, 2003. We believe the construction of the project will begin in mid- 2004 and be complete in late 2005 or early 2006.
The Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria
In April 2003, we entered into Development and Management Agreements with the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria (the "FIGR") pursuant to which we will assist the FIGR in developing and
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operating a gaming and entertainment project to be located in Sonoma County, California. The FIGR selected us to assist it in designing, developing and financing the 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 22% 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 August 2003, the FIGR and we entered into an option to purchase 360 acres of land just west of Rohnert Park's city limits in Sonoma County, California. The proposed site of the project is bordered by Stony Point Road, Wilfred Avenue and Rohnert Park Expressway, approximately one-half mile from Highway 101 and approximately 43 miles from San Francisco. In October 2003, the FIGR entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Rohnert Park. 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 United States Department of the Interior accepting the land into trust on behalf of the FIGR and approval of the Management Agreement by the National Indian Gaming Commission ("NIGC"). No assurances can be given as to when, or if, the necessary government and regulatory approvals will be received. Prior to the receipt of such government and regulatory approvals, we likely will contribute significant financial support to the project. As of December 31, 2003, we had advanced approximately $16.2 million toward the development of this project, primarily to secure real estate for future development. In addition, we will make approximately $11.3 million of payments upon achieving certain milestones, which will not be reimbursed. As of December 31, 2003, approximately $2.0 million of these payments have been made. The proposed project is expected to be completed in approximately three to four years, but there can be no assurance that it will be completed within that timeframe or at all.
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 will assist Gun Lake in developing and operating a gaming and entertainment project to be located in Allegan County, Michigan.
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. We may pay an additional $12.0 million in total in years six and seven of the amended Management Agreement, subject to certain contingencies. Under the terms of the amended Development Agreement, we have agreed to arrange financing for the ongoing development costs and construction of the project. Prior to obtaining financing for the project, we expect to advance $10 million to $15 million to Gun Lake for the acquisition of land and other development costs. As of December 31, 2003, we had advanced approximately $5.2 million toward the development of this project, primarily to secure real estate for future development. Although no firm construction budget has been established, we expect that the total cost of the development and construction of the project would be less than $200 million. Funds advanced by us are expected to be repaid with the proceeds of the project financing or from Gun Lake's gaming revenues. The amended 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 145 acres on Highway 131 near 129th Avenue, approximately 25 miles north of Kalamazoo, Michigan. As currently contemplated, the project would include up to 2,500 slot machines, 75 table games, a buffet, specialty restaurants and an entertainment venue. Construction of the project includes the conversion of an existing 192,000 square foot building into
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the entertainment facility. Development of the entertainment project and operation of Class III gaming is subject to certain governmental and regulatory approvals, including, but not limited to, negotiating a gaming compact with the State of Michigan, the United States Department of the Interior accepting the land into trust on behalf of Gun Lake and approval of the Management Agreement by the NIGC. No assurances can be given as to when, or if, the necessary government and regulatory approvals will be received. Prior to the receipt of such governmental and regulatory approvals, we will contribute significant financial support to the project. The proposed project is expected to be completed in 2005, but there can be no assurance that it will be completed at that time or at all.
Mechoopda Indian Tribe
In January 2004, we entered into Development and Management Agreements with the Mechoopda Indian Tribe of Chico Rancheria, California (the "MITCR"), a federally recognized Native American tribe. We will assist the MITCR in developing and operating a gaming and entertainment project to be located 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. Prior to obtaining financing for the facility, we expect to advance $5 million to $10 million to the MITCR for the acquisition of land and other development costs. Although no firm construction budget has been established, we expect the total cost of the development and construction of the facility will be less than $80 million. Funds advanced by us are expected to be repaid from the proceeds of the facility financing or from the MITCR's gaming revenues. 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. The proposed facility will be located on approximately 650 acres on State Route 149, at the intersection with Highway 99. As currently contemplated, the facility will include approximately 500 slot machines, 10 table games and dining and entertainment amenities. We anticipate the gaming and entertainment facility will be open some time during 2005, but there can be no assurance that it will be completed at that time or at all.
North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indian Tribe
In March 2004, we entered into Development and Management Agreements with the North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians ("Mono"), a federally recognized Native American tribe located in central California. We will assist the Mono in developing and operating a gaming and entertainment facility to be located in Madera County, California. We have secured for the benefit of the Mono two parcels 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. Although no firm construction budget has been established, we expect the total cost of the development and construction of the facility will be less than $225 million. Funds advanced by us are expected to be repaid from the proceeds of the project financing or from the Mono's gaming revenues. 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, 70 table games and dining, 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 United States Department of the Interior accepting the land into trust on behalf of the Mono and approval of the Management Agreement by the NIGC. We anticipate the gaming and entertainment facility will be open some time in late 2007, but there can be no assurance that it will be completed at that time or at all.
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Competition
The gaming industry includes land-based casinos, dockside casinos, riverboat casinos, casinos located on Native American land and other forms of legalized gaming. There is intense competition among companies in the gaming industry, many of which have significantly greater resources than we do. Several states are currently considering legalizing casino gaming in designated areas. Legalized casino gaming in such states and on Native American land will provide strong competition to us and could adversely affect our operations, particularly to the extent that such gaming is conducted in areas close to our operations. Native American gaming in California, as it currently exists, has had little, if any impact on our Nevada operations to date, although there are no assurances as to future impact. 61 Native American tribes entered into Tribal-State Gaming Compacts ("Compacts") with the State of California in 1999 and 2000 that are currently in effect. Each of these Native American tribes may operate up to two gaming facilities. Nine of these Native American tribes are presently not operating a casino. Two Native American tribes entered into Compacts with the State of California in 2003 that are currently in effect. Both of these Native American tribes may operate one gaming facility; however, they are presently not operating a casino. Currently there are 53 Native American casinos in operation in the State of California. These Native American tribes are allowed to operate slot machines, lottery games, and banking and percentage games (including "21") on Native American lands. Certain compacts are currently being renegotiated with the state. While the outcome of the negotiations is yet to be determined, the possibility exists that the current facilities operating in California will be allowed to expand. It is not certain how any expansion of Native American gaming in California will affect our Nevada operations given that visitors from California make up Nevada's largest visitors market. Moreover, it is uncertain how soon expansion will effect our interests in Native American gaming in California. Increased competition from Native American gaming may result in a decline in our revenues and may have a material adverse effect on our business.
Our Nevada casino properties face more direct competition from 33 non-restricted gaming locations in the Las Vegas area primarily targeted to the local and the repeat visitor markets. Some of these competitors have completed expansions and existing competitors and new entrants into these markets are in the planning stages or under construction on other projects. Although we have competed strongly in these marketplaces, there can be no assurance that additional capacity will not have a negative impact on our business.
Our Nevada casino properties face competition from all other casinos and hotels in the Las Vegas area, including to some degree, from each other. In addition, our casino properties face competition from all smaller non-restricted gaming locations and restricted gaming locations (locations with 15 or fewer slot machines) in the greater Las Vegas area. As of December 31, 2003, there were 1,387 restricted gaming locations with a total of 14,003 slot machines. We compete with other locals oriented hotel/casinos by focusing on repeat customers and attracting these customers through innovative marketing programs. Our value-oriented, high-quality approach is designed to generate repeat business. Additionally, our casino properties are strategically located and designed to permit convenient access and ample parking, which are critical factors in attracting local visitors and repeat patrons. Currently, there are approximately 34 major gaming properties located on or near the Las Vegas Strip, 13 located in the downtown area and several located in other areas of Las Vegas. Major additions, expansions or enhancements of existing properties or the construction of new properties by competitors, could also have a material adverse effect on the businesses of our casino properties. While past additions to capacity have had little, if any, impact on our casino properties' hotel occupancy or casino volume to date, there can be no assurance that hotel occupancy or casino volume will not be adversely affected in the future.
To a lesser extent, our Nevada operations compete with gaming operations in other parts of the state of Nevada, such as Reno, Laughlin and Lake Tahoe, riverboat gaming markets in the Midwest and South, facilities in Atlantic City, New Jersey, casinos located on Native American land and other parts of the world and with state-sponsored lotteries, on-and-off-track pari-mutuel wagering, card parlors and other forms of legalized gambling.
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In 1997, the Nevada legislature enacted Senate Bill 208. This legislation identified certain gaming enterprise districts and classifications of real property wherein gaming development would be permitted throughout the Las Vegas valley. We believe the growth in gaming supply in the Las Vegas locals' market has been, and will continue to be, limited by the provisions of Senate Bill 208.
Regulation and Licensing
Nevada Gaming Regulations
The ownership and operation of casino gaming facilities and the manufacture and distribution of gaming devices in Nevada are subject to: (i) the Nevada Gaming Control Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder (collectively, the "Nevada Act"); and (ii) various local ordinances and regulations. Our gaming operations in Nevada are subject to the licensing and regulatory control of the Nevada Gaming Commission ("Nevada Commission"), the Nevada State Gaming Control Board ("Nevada Board"), the City of Las Vegas, the Clark County Liquor and Gaming Licensing Board (the "Clark County Board"), the City of North Las Vegas, the City of Henderson and certain other local regulatory agencies. The Nevada Commission, the Nevada Board, the City of Las Vegas, the Clark County Board, the City of North Las Vegas, the City of Henderson, and certain other local regulatory agencies are collectively referred to as the "Nevada Gaming Authorities".
The laws, regulations and supervisory procedures of the Nevada Gaming Authorities are based upon declarations of public policy which are concerned with, among other things: (i) the prevention of unsavory or unsuitable persons from having a direct or indirect involvement with gaming at any time or in any capacity; (ii) the establishment and maintenance of responsible accounting practices and procedures; (iii) the maintenance of effective controls over the financial practices of licensees, including the establishment of minimum procedures for internal controls and the safeguarding of assets and revenues, providing reliable record keeping and requiring the filing of periodic reports with the Nevada Gaming Authorities; (iv) the prevention of cheating and fraudulent practices; and (v) providing a source of state and local revenues through taxation and licensing fees. Change in such laws, regulations and procedures could have an adverse effect on our gaming operations.
Our direct and indirect subsidiaries that conduct gaming operations in Nevada are required to be licensed by the Nevada Gaming Authorities. The gaming licenses require the periodic payment of fees and taxes and are not transferable. Palace Station Hotel & Casino, Inc. ("PSHC"), Boulder Station, Inc. ("BSI"), Texas Station LLC ("TSL"), Sunset Station, Inc. ("SSI"), Tropicana Station, Inc. ("TRSI"), Santa Fe Station, Inc. ("SFSI"), Fiesta Station, Inc. ("FSI"), Rancho Station, LLC ("RSL") and Lake Mead Station, Inc. ("LMSI") have received licenses to conduct non-restricted gaming operations. In addition, Green Valley Ranch Gaming, LLC ("GVRG") has received licenses to conduct non-restricted gaming operations at Green Valley Ranch Station Casino. The Company's ownership in GVRG is held through an intermediary company known as GV Ranch Station, Inc. ("GVRS"), which is licensed as a member and manager of GVRG. Town Center Amusements, Inc. ("TCAI") has been licensed to conduct non-restricted gaming operations at Barley's Casino & Brewing Company ("Barley's"), a micro brewery and casino located in Henderson, Nevada. Station Casinos' ownership in TCAI is held through an intermediary company known as Green Valley Station, Inc. ("GVSI"), which is licensed as a member and manager of TCAI. We also own a minority interest in Fiesta Palms, LLC, d.b.a. Palms Casino Resort, which we hold through our subsidiary, Palms Station, LLC ("PSL"). Station Casinos is registered by the Nevada Commission as a publicly traded corporation (a "Registered Corporation") and has been found suitable to own the stock of PSHC, BSI, SSI, TRSI, GVSI, SFSI, GVRS, FSI, RSL and LMSI. We are also licensed as a manufacturer and distributor. PSHC, BSI, SSI, TRSI, GVSI, SFSI, GVRG, FSI and LMSI are each a corporate gaming licensee and TCAI, TSL, GVRG, RSL and PSL are each a limited liability company licensee (individually a "Gaming Subsidiary" and collectively the "Gaming Subsidiaries") under the terms of the Nevada Act. As a Registered Corporation, Station Casinos is required periodically to submit detailed financial and operating reports to the Nevada Commission and the Nevada Board and furnish any
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other information, which the Nevada Commission or the Nevada Board may require. No person may become a stockholder or holder of an interest of, or receive any percentage of profits from the Gaming Subsidiaries without first obtaining licenses and approvals from the Nevada Gaming Authorities. Station Casinos and the Gaming Subsidiaries have obtained from the Nevada Gaming Authorities the various registrations, findings of suitability, approvals, permits and licenses (individually, a "Gaming License" and collectively, the "Gaming Licenses") required in order to engage in gaming activities in Nevada.
The Nevada Gaming Authorities may investigate any individual who has a material relationship to, or material involvement with, a Registered Corporation, such as Station Casinos or the Gaming Subsidiaries, which hold a license, in order to determine whether such individual is suitable or should be licensed as a business associate of a Registered Corporation or a gaming licensee. Officers, directors and certain key employees of the Gaming Subsidiaries must file applications with the Nevada Gaming Authorities and may be required to be licensed or found suitable by the Nevada Gaming Authorities. Officers, directors and key employees of Station Casinos who are actively and directly involved in gaming activities of the Gaming Subsidiaries may be required to be licensed or found suitable by the Nevada Gaming Authorities. The Nevada Gaming Authorities may deny an application for licensing for any cause, which they deem reasonable. A finding of suitability is comparable to licensing, and both require submission of detailed personal and financial information followed by a thorough investigation. The applicant for licensing or a finding of suitability must pay all the costs of the investigation. Changes in licensed positions must be reported to the Nevada Gaming Authorities and in addition to their authority to deny an application for a finding of suitability or licensure, the Nevada Gaming Authorities have jurisdiction to disapprove a change in corporate position.
If the Nevada Gaming Authorities were to find an officer, director or key employee unsuitable for licensing or unsuitable to continue to have a relationship with Station Casinos or the Gaming Subsidiaries, the companies involved would have to sever all relationships with such person. In addition, the Nevada Commission may require Station Casinos or the Gaming Subsidiaries to terminate the employment of any person who refuses to file the appropriate applications. Determinations of suitability or questions pertaining to licensing are not subject to judicial review in Nevada.
Station Casinos and the Gaming Subsidiaries are required to submit detailed financial and operating reports to the Nevada Commission. Substantially all material loans, leases, sales of securities and similar financing transactions by us and our Gaming Subsidiaries must be reported to or approved by the Nevada Commission and/or the Nevada Board.
If it were determined that the Nevada Act was violated by a Gaming Subsidiary, the gaming licenses it holds could be limited, conditioned, suspended or revoked, subject to compliance with certain statutory and regulatory procedures. In addition, Station Casinos, the Gaming Subsidiaries and the persons involved could be subject to substantial fines for each separate violation of the Nevada Act at the discretion of the Nevada Commission. Further, a supervisor could be appointed by the Nevada Commission to operate Palace Station, Boulder Station, Texas Station, Sunset Station, Santa Fe Station, Green Valley Ranch Station, Fiesta Rancho, Fiesta Henderson, Wild Wild West, Wildfire and Barley's and, under certain circumstances, earnings generated during the supervisor's appointment (except for the reasonable rental value of the premises) could be forfeited to the State of Nevada. Limitation, conditioning or suspension of the Gaming Licenses of the Gaming Subsidiaries or the appointment of a supervisor could (and revocation of any Gaming License would) have a material adverse affect on our gaming operations.
Any beneficial owner of Station Casinos, Inc. voting securities, regardless of the number of shares owned, may be required to file an application, be investigated, and have their suitability as a beneficial owner of our voting securities determined if the Nevada Commission has reason to believe that such ownership would otherwise be inconsistent with the declared policies of the state of Nevada. The applicant must pay all costs of investigation incurred by the Nevada Gaming Authorities in conducting any such investigation.
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The Nevada Act provides that persons who acquire beneficial ownership of more than 5% of the voting securities of a Registered Corporation must report the acquisition to the Nevada Commission. The Nevada Act also requires that beneficial owners of more than 10% of the voting securities of a Registered Corporation must apply to the Nevada Commission for a finding of suitability within thirty days after the Chairman of the Nevada Board mails the written notice requiring such filing. An "institutional investor," as defined in the Nevada Commission's regulations, which acquires beneficial ownership of more than 10%, but not more than 15% of Station Casinos voting securities may apply to the Nevada Commission for a waiver of such finding of suitability if such institutional investor holds the voting securities for investment purposes only. An institutional investor that has obtained a waiver may, in certain circumstances, hold up to 19% of Station Casinos voting securities and maintain its waiver for a limited period of time. An institutional investor shall not be deemed to hold voting securities for investment purposes unless the voting securities were acquired and are held in the ordinary course of business as an institutional investor and not for the purpose of causing, directly or indirectly, the election of a majority of the members of the Board of Directors of Station Casinos, any change in our corporate charter, bylaws, management policies or operations of Station Casinos, or any of its gaming affiliates, or any other action which the Nevada Commission finds to be inconsistent with holding our voting securities for investment purposes only. Activities which are not deemed to be inconsistent with holding voting securities for investment purposes only include: (i) voting on all matters voted on by stockholders; (ii) making financial and other inquiries of management of the type normally made by securities analysts for informational purposes and not to cause a change in our management, policies or operations; and (iii) such other activities as the Nevada Commission may determine to be consistent with such investment intent. If the beneficial holder of voting securities who must be found suitable is a corporation, partnership or trust, it must submit detailed business and financial information including a list of beneficial owners. The applicant is required to pay all costs of investigation.
Any person who fails or refuses to apply for a finding of suitability or a license within thirty days after being ordered to do so by the Nevada Commission or the Chairman of the Nevada Board, may be found unsuitable. The same restrictions apply to a record owner if the record owner, after request, fails to identify the beneficial owner. Any stockholder who is found unsuitable and who holds, directly or indirectly, any beneficial ownership of the common stock of a Registered Corporation beyond such period of time as may be prescribed by the Nevada Commission may be guilty of a criminal offense. We are subject to disciplinary action if, after we receive notice that a person is unsuitable to be a stockholder or to have any other relationship with us or our Gaming Subsidiaries, we (i) pay that person any dividend or interest upon voting securities of Station Casinos, (ii) allow that person to exercise, directly or indirectly, any voting right conferred through securities held by that person, (iii) pay remuneration in any form to that person for services rendered or otherwise, or (iv) fail to pursue all lawful efforts to require such unsuitable person to relinquish his voting securities including, if necessary, the immediate purchase of said voting securities for cash at fair market value. Additionally, the Clark County Board has the authority to approve all persons owning or controlling the stock of any corporation controlling a gaming licensee.
The Nevada Commission may, in its discretion, require the holder of any debt security of a Registered Corporation to file applications, be investigated and be found suitable to own the debt security of a Registered Corporation if the Nevada Commission has reason to believe that such ownership would otherwise be inconsistent with the declared policies of the State of Nevada. If the Nevada Commission determines that a person is unsuitable to own such security, then pursuant to the Nevada Act, the Registered Corporation can be sanctioned, including the loss of its approvals, if without the prior approval of the Nevada Commission, it: (i) pays to the unsuitable person any dividend, interest, or any distribution whatsoever; (ii) recognizes any voting right by such unsuitable person in connection with such securities; (iii) pays the unsuitable person remuneration in any form; or (iv) makes any payment to the unsuitable person by way of principal, redemption, conversion, exchange, liquidation or similar transaction.
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We are required to maintain a current stock ledger in Nevada, which may be examined by the Nevada Gaming Authorities at any time. If any securities are held in trust by an agent or by a nominee, the record holder may be required to disclose the identity of the beneficial owner to the Nevada Gaming Authorities. A failure to make such disclosure may be grounds for finding the record holder unsuitable. We are also required to render maximum assistance in determining the identity of the beneficial owner. The Nevada Commission has the power to require our stock certificates to bear a legend indicating that the securities are subject to the Nevada Act. However, to date, the Nevada Commission has not imposed such a requirement on us.
We may not make a public offering of our securities without the prior approval of the Nevada Commission if the securities or proceeds therefrom are intended to be used to construct, acquire or finance gaming facilities in Nevada, or to retire or extend obligations incurred for such purposes. On May 22, 2003, the Nevada Commission granted us prior approval to make public offerings for a period of two years, subject to certain conditions ("Shelf Approval"). The Shelf Approval may be rescinded for good cause without prior notice upon the issuance of an interlocutory stop order by the Chairman of the Nevada Board and must be renewed at the end of the two-year approval period. The Shelf Approval also applies to any affiliated company wholly owned by Station Casinos (an "Affiliate"), which is a publicly traded corporation or would thereby become a publicly traded corporation pursuant to a public offering. The Shelf Approval also includes approval for the Gaming Subsidiaries to guarantee any security issued by, or to hypothecate their assets to secure the payment or performance of any obligations evidenced by a security issued by, Station Casinos or an Affiliate in a public offering under the Shelf Approval. The Shelf Approval does not constitute a finding, recommendation or approval by the Nevada Commission or the Nevada Board as to the accuracy or adequacy of the prospectus or the investment merits of the securities offered. The Shelf Approval also includes approval for us to place restrictions upon the transfer of, and to enter into agreements not to encumber the equity securities of the Gaming Subsidiaries, as applicable, in conjunction with public offerings made under the Shelf Approval. Any representation to the contrary is unlawful.
Changes in control of Station Casinos through merger, consolidation, stock or asset acquisitions, management or consulting agreements, or any act or conduct by a person whereby such person obtains control, may not occur without the prior approval of the Nevada Commission. Entities seeking to acquire control of a Registered Corporation must satisfy the Nevada Board and the Nevada Commission that they meet a variety of stringent standards prior to assuming control of such Registered Corporation. The Nevada Commission may also require controlling stockholders, officers, directors and other persons having a material relationship or involvement with the entity proposing to acquire control, to be investigated and licensed as part of the approval process relating to the transaction.
The Nevada legislature has declared that some corporate acquisitions opposed by management, repurchases of voting securities and corporate defense tactics affecting Nevada corporate gaming licensees, and Registered Corporations that are affiliated with those operations, may be injurious to stable and productive corporate gaming. The Nevada Commission has established a regulatory scheme to ameliorate the potentially adverse effects of these business practices upon Nevada's gaming industry and to further Nevada's policy to: (i) assure the financial stability of corporate gaming licensees and their affiliates; (ii) preserve the beneficial aspects of conducting business in the corporate form; and (iii) promote a neutral environment for the orderly governance of corporate affairs. Approvals are, in certain circumstances, required from the Nevada Commission before a Registered Corporation can make exceptional repurchases of voting securities above the current market price thereof and before a corporate acquisition opposed by management can be consummated. The Nevada Act also requires prior approval of a plan of re-capitalization proposed by the Registered Corporation's Board of Directors in response to a tender offer made directly to the Registered Corporation's stockholders for the purpose of acquiring control of the Registered Corporation.
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License fees and taxes, computed in various ways depending on the type of gaming or activity involved, are payable to the State of Nevada and to the counties and cities in which the Nevada licensee's respective operations are conducted. Depending upon the particular fee or tax involved, these fees and taxes are payable either monthly, quarterly or annually and are based upon either: (i) a percentage of the gross revenues received; (ii) the number of gaming devices operated; or (iii) the number of table games operated. A live entertainment tax is also paid by casino operations where entertainment is furnished in connection with admission charges, the serving or selling of food or refreshments or the selling of any merchandise. Nevada licensees that hold a license as an operator of a slot route, or manufacturer's or distributor's license also pay certain fees and taxes to the state of Nevada.
Any person who is licensed, required to be licensed, registered, required to be registered, or is under common control with such persons (collectively, "Licensees"), and who proposes to become involved in a gaming venture outside of Nevada, is required to deposit with the Nevada Board, and thereafter maintain, a revolving fund in the amount of $10,000 to pay the expenses of investigation by the Nevada Board of their participation in such foreign gaming. The revolving fund is subject to increase or decrease at the discretion of the Nevada Commission. Thereafter, licensees are required to comply with certain reporting requirements imposed by the Nevada Act. Licensees are also subject to disciplinary action by the Nevada Commission if they knowingly violate any laws of the foreign jurisdiction pertaining to the foreign gaming operation, fail to conduct the foreign gaming operation in accordance with the standards of honesty and integrity required of Nevada gaming operations, engage in activities or enter into associations that are harmful to the state of Nevada or its ability to collect gaming taxes and fees, or employ, contract with or associate with a person in the foreign operation who has been denied a license or finding of suitability in Nevada on the grounds of unsuitability or whom a court in the state of Nevada has found guilty of cheating. The loss or restriction of our gaming licenses in Nevada would have a material adverse effect on our business and could require us to cease gaming operations in Nevada.
Nevada Liquor Regulations
The sale of alcoholic beverages at Palace Station, Wildfire and Santa Fe Station is subject to licensing, control and regulation by the City of Las Vegas. The sale of alcoholic beverages at Boulder Station and Wild Wild West is subject to licensing control and regulation by the Clark County Board. Texas Station and Fiesta Rancho are subject to licensing control and regulation of the City of North Las Vegas. Sunset Station, Green Valley Ranch Station, Fiesta Henderson and Barley's are subject to the licensing control and regulation of the City of Henderson and the Department of Treasury, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, as applicable. All licenses are revocable and are not transferable. The agencies involved have full power to limit, condition, suspend or revoke any such license, and any such disciplinary action could (and revocation would) have a material adverse effect on the operations of the Gaming Subsidiaries.
Native American Gaming
The terms and conditions of management contracts and the operation of casinos and all gaming on Native American land in the United States are subject to the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988 ("IGRA"), which is administered by the National Indian Gaming Commission ("NIGC") and the gaming regulatory agencies of tribal governments. IGRA is subject to interpretation by the NIGC and may be subject to judicial and legislative clarification or amendment.
IGRA requires NIGC approval of management contracts for Class II and Class III gaming as well as the review of all agreements collateral to the management contracts. The management contract relating to the Company's casino for the United Auburn Indian Community was approved by the NIGC. The NIGC will not approve a management contract if a director or a 10% shareholder of the management company: (i) is an elected member of the Indian tribal government which owns the facility purchasing or leasing the games; (ii) has been or is convicted of a felony gaming offense; (iii) has knowingly and willfully provided materially false information to the NIGC or the tribe; (iv) has refused to respond to questions from the
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NIGC; or (v) is a person whose prior history, reputation and associations pose a threat to the public interest or to effective gaming regulation and control, or create or enhance the chance of unsuitable activities in gaming or the business and financial arrangements incidental thereto. In addition, the NIGC will not approve a management contract if the management company or any of its agents have attempted to unduly influence any decision or process of tribal government relating to gaming, or if the management company has materially breached the terms of the management contract or the tribe's gaming ordinance, or a trustee, exercising due diligence, would not approve such management contract. A management contract can be approved only after the NIGC determines that the contract provides, among other things, for: (i) adequate accounting procedures and verifiable financial reports, which must be furnished to the tribe; (ii) tribal access to the daily operations of the gaming enterprise, including the right to verify daily gross revenues and income; (iii) minimum guaranteed payments to the tribe, which must have priority over the retirement of development and construction costs; (iv) a ceiling on the repayment of such development and construction costs and (v) a contract term not exceeding five years and a management fee not exceeding 30% of net revenues (as determined by the NIGC); provided that the NIGC may approve up to a seven year term and a management fee not to exceed 40% of net revenues if the NIGC is satisfied that the capital investment required, and the income projections for the particular gaming activity require the larger fee and longer term. There is no periodic or ongoing review of approved contracts by the NIGC. The only post-approval action that could result in possible modification or cancellation of a contract would be as the result of an enforcement action taken by the NIGC based on a violation of the law or an issue affecting suitability.
IGRA established three separate classes of tribal gaming-Class I, Class II and Class III. Class I includes all traditional or social games solely for prizes of minimal value played by a tribe in connection with celebrations or ceremonies. Class II gaming includes games such as bingo, pull-tabs, punchboards, instant bingo and non-banked card games (those that are not played against the house), such as poker. Class III gaming is casino-style gaming and includes banked table games such as blackjack, craps and roulette, and gaming machines such as slots, video poker, lotteries and pari-mutuel wagering. Thunder Valley Casino may provide Class II gaming and, as limited by the tribal-state compact, Class III gaming.
IGRA prohibits all forms of Class III gaming unless the tribe has entered into a written agreement with the state that specifically authorizes the types of Class III gaming the tribe may offer (a "tribal-state compact"). These compacts provide, among other things, the manner and extent to which each state will conduct background investigations and certify the suitability of the manager, its officers, directors, and key employees to conduct gaming on Native American lands. The Company has been licensed by the relevant tribal gaming authorities to manage Thunder Valley Casino.
Title 25, Section 81 of the United States Code states that "no agreement shall be made by any person with any tribe of Indians, or individual Indians not citizens of the United States, for the payment or delivery of any money or other thing of value... in consideration of services for said Indians relative to their lands... unless such contract or agreement be executed and approved" by the Secretary or his or her designee. An agreement or contract for services relative to Native American lands which fails to conform with the requirements of Section 81 is void and unenforceable. All money or other thing of value paid to any person by any Native American or tribe for or on his or their behalf, on account of such services, in excess of any amount approved by the Secretary or his or her authorized representative will be subject to forfeiture. We believe that we have complied with the requirements of section 81 with respect to our management contracts for Thunder Valley and intend to comply with Section 81 with respect to any other contract to manage casinos located on Native American land in the United States.
Native American tribes are sovereign with their own governmental systems, which have primary regulatory authority over gaming on land within the tribes' jurisdiction. Therefore, persons engaged in gaming activities, including the Company, are subject to the provisions of tribal ordinances and regulations on gaming. These ordinances are subject to review by the NIGC under certain standards established by IGRA. The NIGC may determine that some or all of the ordinances require amendment, and that
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additional requirements, including additional licensing requirements, may be imposed on us. We have received no such notification regarding Thunder Valley. The possession of valid licenses from the United Auburn Indian Community are ongoing conditions of our agreements with the tribe.
General Gaming Regulations in Other Jurisdictions
If we become involved in gaming operations in any other jurisdictions, such gaming operations will subject us and certain of our officers, directors, key employees, stockholders and other affiliates ("Regulated Persons") to strict legal and regulatory requirements, including mandatory licensing and approval requirements, suitability requirements, and ongoing regulatory oversight with respect to such gaming operations. Such legal and regulatory requirements and oversight will be administered and exercised by the relevant regulatory agency or agencies in each jurisdiction (the "Regulatory Authorities"). Station Casinos and the Regulated Persons will need to satisfy the licensing, approval and suitability requirements of each jurisdiction in which we seek to become involved in gaming operations. These requirements vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, but generally concern the responsibility, financial stability and character of the owners and managers of gaming operations as well as persons financially interested or involved in gaming operations. In general, the procedures for gaming licensing, approval and finding of suitability require Station Casinos and each Regulated Person to submit detailed personal history information and financial information to demonstrate that the proposed gaming operation has adequate financial resources generated from suitable sources and adequate procedures to comply with the operating controls and requirements imposed by law and regulation in each jurisdiction, followed by a thorough investigation by such Regulatory Authorities. In general, Station Casinos and each Regulated Person must pay the costs of such investigation. An application for any gaming license, approval or finding of suitability may be denied for any cause that the Regulatory Authorities deem reasonable. Once obtained, licenses and approvals may be subject to periodic renewal and generally are not transferable. The Regulatory Authorities may at any time revoke, suspend, condition, limit or restrict a license, approval or finding of suitability for any cause that they deem reasonable. Fines for violations may be levied against the holder of a license or approval and in certain jurisdictions, gaming operation revenues can be forfeited to the state under certain circumstances. There can be no assurance that we will obtain all of the necessary licenses, approvals and findings of suitability or that our officers, directors, key employees, other affiliates and certain other stockholders will satisfy the suitability requirements in one or more jurisdictions, or that such licenses, approvals and findings of suitability, if obtained, will not be revoked, limited, suspended or not renewed in the future.
Failure by Station Casinos to obtain, or the loss or suspension of, any necessary licenses, approval or findings of suitability would prevent us from conducting gaming operations in such jurisdiction and possibly in other jurisdictions. We may be required to submit detailed financial and operating reports to Regulatory Authorities.
Economic Risks
Our properties draw a substantial number of customers from the Las Vegas valley, as well as certain geographic areas, including Southern California, Arizona and Utah. Adverse economic conditions in any of these regions could have a significant adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Since all of our properties are located in the Las Vegas valley or Northern California, any terrorist activities or disasters in or around Southern Nevada or Northern California could have a significant adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our properties use significant amounts of electricity, natural gas and other forms of energy. While no shortages of energy have been experienced, the substantial increases in the cost of electricity, natural gas and gasoline in the United States during the last three years have and may continue to negatively affect our operating results. In addition, energy price increases in the regions that constitute a significant source of customers for our properties could result in a decline in disposable income of potential customers and a
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corresponding decrease in visitation and spending at our properties, which could negatively impact revenues.
Taxes
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 recently enacted various tax increases, which raised the tax on gross gaming revenue from 6.25% to 6.75%. In addition, a payroll tax was enacted as well as increases in the taxes on alcohol and cigarettes. The various taxes went into affect at various points throughout the second half of 2003 and the Company anticipates that the annual impact of these new taxes and tax increases will be approximately $5 million.
The UAIC and a number of other Native American tribes in California are currently renegotiating certain provisions of the Tribal State Gaming Compacts ("Compacts") to which they are a party. Although it is unclear what changes, if any, may ultimately be made to the Compacts, such renegotiation may result in an increase in the fees paid by the UAIC and other Native American tribes to the State of California, an increase in the number of gaming devices that a Native American tribe may operate and other obligations that are not currently required by the existing Compacts. Changes in applicable laws, regulations or Compact provisions could have a significant impact on our operations.
Employees
As of March 1, 2004, we had approximately 10,300 employees in Nevada, which includes Green Valley Ranch Station and Barley's. From time to time, certain of our employees are contacted by unions and we engage in discussions with such employees regarding establishment of collective bargaining agreements. In 1998, 12 of our employees voted to be represented by a union. In 2004, these same employees voted to be and were decertified by the union. While we are faced with such movements by employees from time to time, we do not believe that such movements will have any broad-based impact on our employees; however, there can be no assurances to that effect. We believe that we have good relationships with our employees.
Available Information
Station Casinos, Inc. is a reporting company under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and files annual reports, quarterly reports, proxy statements and other documents with the SEC. The public may read and copy any of our filings at the SEC's Public Reference Room at 450 Fifth Street N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549. The public may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. Because we make filings to the SEC electronically, access to this information is available at the SEC's Internet website (www.sec.gov). This site contains reports and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC. We also make available, free of charge, through our Internet website (www.stationcasinos.com) our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, and, if applicable, amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to the Exchange Act as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the SEC.
Substantially all of the property that we own and lease is subject to a lien to secure borrowings under our Revolving Facility.
Palace Station is situated on approximately 38 acres that we own located on the west side of Las Vegas, Nevada.
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Boulder Station is situated on approximately 46 acres located on the east side of Las Vegas, Nevada. We own 19 acres and lease the remaining 27 acres from KB Enterprises, a company owned by Frank J. Fertitta, Jr. and Victoria K. Fertitta (the "Related Lessor"), the parents of Frank J. Fertitta III, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and Lorenzo J. Fertitta, the President of the Company. The lease has a maximum term of 65 years, ending in June 2058. The lease provides for monthly payments of $183,333 through June 2008. In July 2008, and every ten years thereafter, the rent will be adjusted by a cost of living factor. In July 2013, and every ten years thereafter, the rent will be adjusted to the product of the fair market value of the land and the greater of (i) the then prevailing annual rate of return for comparably situated property or (ii) 8% per year. In no event will the rent for any period be less than the immediately preceding period. We believe that the terms of the ground lease are as fair to us as could be obtained from an independent third party.
Texas Station is situated on approximately 47 acres located in North Las Vegas, Nevada. We lease this land from Texas Gambling Hall & Hotel, Inc., a company owned by the Related Lessor. The lease has a maximum term of 65 years, ending in July 2060. The lease provides for monthly rental payments of $287,500 through June 2005. In July 2005, and every ten years thereafter, the rent will be adjusted by a cost of living factor. In July 2010, and every ten years thereafter, the rent will be adjusted to the product of the fair market value of the land and the greater of (i) the then prevailing annual rate of return being realized for owners of comparable land in Clark County or (ii) 8% per year. In no event will the rent for any period be less than the immediately preceding period. Pursuant to the ground lease, we have an option, exercisable at five-year intervals with the next option in May 2005, to purchase the land at fair market value. We believe that the terms of the ground lease are as fair to us as could be obtained from an independent third party.
Sunset Station is situated on approximately 82 acres that we own located in Henderson, Nevada.
Santa Fe Station is situated on approximately 38 acres that we own on the northwest side of Las Vegas, Nevada.
Green Valley Ranch Station, a 50% owned joint venture, is situated on approximately 40 acres of a 170-acre multi-use commercial development and is located in Henderson, Nevada approximately six miles southwest of Sunset Station.
Fiesta Rancho is situated on approximately 25 acres that we own in North Las Vegas, Nevada across from Texas Station.
Fiesta Henderson is situated on approximately 46 acres that we own in Henderson, Nevada.
We currently own or lease six sites, which have been acquired for potential gaming projects, consisting of 201 acres in the Las Vegas valley and 188 acres near the Thunder Valley Casino in Sacramento, California.
Station Casinos and our 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 following matters and litigation inherently involves significant costs. Following is a summary of key litigation impacting Station Casinos and our subsidiaries.
Poulos/Ahearn Litigation
On April 26, 1994, a suit seeking status as a class action lawsuit was filed by plaintiff, William H. Poulos, et al., as class representative, in the United States District Court, Middle District of Florida, naming 41 manufacturers, distributors and casino operators of video poker and electronic slot machines, including Station Casinos. On May 10, 1994, a lawsuit alleging substantially identical claims was filed by
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another plaintiff, William Ahearn, et al., as class representative, in the United States District Court, Middle District of Florida, against 48 manufacturers, distributors and casino operators of video poker and electronic slot machines, including the Company and most of the other major hotel/casino companies. The lawsuits allege that the defendants have engaged in a course of fraudulent and misleading conduct intended to induce persons to play such games based on a false belief concerning how the gaming machines operate, as well as the extent to which there is an opportunity to win. The two lawsuits have been consolidated into a single action, and have been transferred to the United States District Court for the District of Nevada (the "Nevada District Court"). On September 26, 1995, a lawsuit alleging substantially identical claims was filed by plaintiff, Larry Schreier, et al., as class representative, in the Nevada District Court, naming 45 manufacturers, distributors, and casino operators of video poker and electronic slot machines, including the Company. Motions to dismiss the Poulos/Ahearn and Schreier cases were filed by defendants. On April 17, 1996, the Poulos/Ahearn lawsuits were dismissed, but plaintiffs were given leave to file Amended Complaints on or before May 31, 1996. On May 31, 1996, an Amended Complaint was filed, naming William H. Poulos, et al., as plaintiff. Defendants filed a motion to dismiss. On August 15, 1996, the Schreier lawsuit was dismissed with leave to amend. On September 27, 1996, Schreier filed an Amended Complaint. Defendants filed motions to dismiss the Amended Complaint. In December 1996, the Court consolidated the Poulos/Ahearn, the Schreier, and a third case not involving the Company and ordered all pending motions be deemed withdrawn without prejudice, including Defendants' Motions to Dismiss the Amended Complaints. The plaintiffs filed a Consolidated Amended Complaint on February 13, 1997. On or about December 19, 1997, the Court issued formal opinions granting in part and denying in part the defendants' motion to dismiss. In so doing, the Court ordered plaintiffs to file an amended complaint in accordance with the Court's orders in January of 1998. Accordingly, plaintiffs amended their complaint and filed it with the Nevada District Court in February 1998. The Company and all other defendants continue to deny the allegations contained in the amended complaint filed on behalf of plaintiffs. The plaintiffs are seeking compensatory, special, consequential, incidental, and punitive damages in unspecified amounts. On June 25, 2002, the Nevada District Court denied plaintiffs' motion for class certification. On July 11, 2002, plaintiffs filed a petition for permission to appeal such class certification ruling with the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. On August 15, 2002, the Ninth Circuit granted the plaintiffs' petition for permission to appeal such class certification ruling. The parties have filed briefs setting forth their arguments, and rebutting the other party's arguments concerning the issue on appeal. On January 15, 2004, the Court of Appeals heard oral argument on this matter, but has yet to issue a ruling. While no assurances can be made with respect to any litigation, the Company believes that the plaintiffs' claims are without merit and does not expect that the lawsuits will have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position or results of operations.
Fitzgerald's Sugar Creek Litigation
On December 20, 2000, the Company and Kansas City Station Corporation were named as defendants in an action styled Fitzgerald Sugar Creek, Inc. v. Kansas City Station Corp., et al., No. 00CV230480 (Circuit Court of Jackson County, Missouri). The plaintiff alleged that the defendants were liable for unspecified actual and punitive damages and other relief, based on alleged tortuous interference with the plaintiff's business expectancy of receiving a Missouri gaming license in the Kansas City metropolitan area. The allegations of the petition appeared to be based on the same issues involved in the investigation by the Missouri Gaming Commission related to activities of Michael Lazaroff, an attorney who formerly represented the Company in Missouri. The plaintiff also alleged claims based on fraudulent concealment and civil conspiracy. The Company and its subsidiary responded to this lawsuit on January 19, 2001 and moved to remove the case to bankruptcy court in Nevada. On March 29, 2001, the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Western District of Missouri remanded the case to the Circuit Court of Jackson County, Missouri. On April 19, 2001, defendants filed a motion to dismiss plaintiff's petition. On August 10, 2001, the Circuit Court (1) granted that motion to dismiss as to the civil conspiracy claim, and (2) denied that motion to dismiss as to the tortuous interference with business expectancy and fraudulent
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concealment claims. On November 21, 2001, Philip Griffith and the City of Sugar Creek, Missouri (the "City") were added as plaintiffs in this case. The new plaintiffs also alleged claims for tortuous interference with business expectancy and fraudulent concealment. On December 17, 2001, defendants filed a motion to dismiss all of Griffith's and the City's claims. On March 15, 2002, the Circuit Court denied that motion to dismiss in its entirety.
On February 9, 2004, the parties entered into a settlement agreement, pursuant to which the Company settled the litigation for $38 million ($24.7 million, net of the related tax benefit), which was paid on February 24, 2004. The Company has asserted a claim against Mr. Lazaroff and his former law firm to recover all damages caused by Mr. Lazaroff's conduct. As part of that claim, the Company intends to seek reimbursement for, among other things, the amount it was required to pay to settle the Fitzgerald's litigation, as well as the attorneys' fees and costs incurred by the Company in defending that litigation. There can be no assurance that the Company will be successful in recovering all or any portion of costs or damages.
Harrah's Litigation
On July 13, 2001, the Company and five of its major operating subsidiaries were named as defendants in a lawsuit brought by Harrah's Entertainment, Inc. and Harrah's Operating Company, Inc. in the United States District Court, District of Nevada (CV-S-01-0825-PMP-RJJ). The plaintiffs allege that the Company and its subsidiaries are liable for unspecified actual and punitive damages, and they seek injunctive and other relief, based on allegations that the Company's "Boarding Pass Rewards Program" infringes on various patents held by the plaintiffs.
On October 4, 2001, the Company and the subsidiaries filed their answer and counterclaim seeking declaratory judgment that Harrah's patents (1) are not infringed by the Company's and the subsidiaries' actions, (2) are invalid under federal patent law and (3) are rendered unenforceable due to Harrah's inequitable conduct. On March 27, 2002, Harrah's filed an amended complaint, which added an additional defendant, Green Valley Ranch Gaming, LLC, which is an affiliate of the Company. On April 22, 2002, the Company and its subsidiaries and affiliate filed their amended answer and counterclaim denying infringement by Green Valley Ranch Gaming, LLC, and alleging Harrah's committed further acts of inequitable conduct.
On January 17, 2003, the Company filed motions for summary judgment or partial summary judgment on several issues: (1) a Motion for Summary Judgment of Patent Unenforceability Due To Inequitable Conduct, (2) a Motion for Summary Judgment of Patent Invalidity Under 35 U.S.C. ss 102 and 103 (lack of novelty and obviousness), (3) a Motion for Partial Summary Judgment of Patent Invalidity Under 35 U.S.C. s 112 (indefiniteness, lack of written description and failure to disclose best mode), (4) a Motion for Partial Summary Judgment of Non-Infringement of U.S. Patent No. 6,003,013, and (5) a Motion for Partial Summary Judgment of Non-Infringement of U.S. Patent No. 6,183,362. That same day, Harrah's filed motions for partial summary judgment on several issues: (1) a Motion for Partial Summary Judgment of Infringement of Claims 15-18 of U.S. Patent No. 5,761,647, (2) a Motion for Partial Summary Judgment of Infringement of Claims 1-2 and 49 of U.S. Patent No. 6,003,013, (3) a Motion for Partial Summary Judgment on Defendants' Invalidity Defenses, and (4) a Motion for Partial Summary Judgment That Certain Third Party Systems Are Not Prior Art. During February and March of 2003, the parties filed oppositions, reply briefs and various motions to strike in response to the summary judgment motions.
The Company and its subsidiaries and affiliate have requested oral argument on the motions. A hearing on certain of the summary judgment motions and motions to strike has been set for March 23, 2004. While no assurances can be made with respect to any litigation, the Company believes that the plaintiffs' claims are without merit and does not expect that the lawsuit will have a material adverse effect on its financial position or results of operations.
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Plattner Litigation
On May 2, 2003, the Company and one of its operating subsidiaries, Palace Station Hotel & Casino, Inc. ("Palace Station"), were named as defendants in a lawsuit seeking status as a class action brought by Dov Plattner in the Superior Court of Los Angeles County, California (Case No. CB295056).
The lawsuit seeks to recover for alleged breach of contract, fraud, negligent misrepresentation, breach of covenant of good faith and fair dealing, promissory fraud, unjust enrichment and violations of sections 17200 and 17500, et. seq. of the California Business and Professions Code, all in connection with energy and telephone surcharge fees imposed on Palace Station hotel guests. The plaintiff is requesting unspecified actual and punitive damages, as well as injunctive and other relief.
On November 10, 2003, the defendants filed a response to the complaint denying all liability. While no assurances can be made with respect to any litigation, the Company believes that the plaintiff's claims are without merit and does not expect that the lawsuit will have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position or results of operations.
Castillo Litigation
On May 14, 2003, the Company (as a nominal defendant only) and all of its executive officers and directors were named as defendants in a derivative action lawsuit, which also seeks status as a class action, brought by Bernard Castillo in the District Court of Clark County, Nevada (Case No. A467663).
The lawsuit alleges that (1) the director defendants breached their fiduciary duties by failing to make certain disclosures in the Company's 2002 Proxy Statement regarding the sale by the Company of its subsidiary, Southwest Gaming Services, Inc. ("SGSI"), and regarding a proposal seeking shareholder approval of an amendment to the Company's stock option plan; (2) the director defendants breached their fiduciary duties in approving the sale of SGSI and in recommending approval of the option plan amendment; and (3) the purchasers of SGSI and the recipients of certain benefits made possible by the option plan amendment were unjustly enriched. The plaintiff is requesting unspecified actual damages, as well as in