FORM 10 - Q

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

(Mark One)

[x] QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period endedSeptember 25, 2005March 26, 2006

OR

[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from ________ to ________.

Commission file number1-9444

 

CEDAR FAIR, L.P.

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

DELAWARE

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

34-1560655

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

One Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky, Ohio 44870-5259

(Address of principal executive offices)

(zip code)

(419) 626-0830

(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Yes X No.

 

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

Yes X No.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes No X.

Title of Class

Units Representing

Limited Partner Interests

Units Outstanding As Of

NovemberMay 1, 20052006

53,772,52953,908,514

 

 

CEDAR FAIR, L.P.

INDEX

FORM 10 - Q

 

 

 

Part I - Financial Information

  
     

Item 1.

 

Financial Statements

 

3-8

     

Item 2.

 

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

 

9-129-10

Item 3.

 

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

1311

Item 4.

 

Controls and Procedures

 

1311

     

Part II - Other Information

  
     

Item 1.

 

Legal Proceedings

 

1412

     

Item 2.

 

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

1412

     

Item 3.

 

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

1412

     

Item 4.

 

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

 

1412

     

Item 5.

 

Other Information

 

1412

     

Item 6.

 

Exhibits

 

1412

     

Signatures

   

1513

     

Index to Exhibits

   

1614

 

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

CEDAR FAIR, L.P.

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands)

9/25/05

12/31/04

3/26/06

12/31/05

ASSETS

ASSETS

Current Assets:

Current Assets:

Current Assets:

Cash

$ 8,647

$ 3,353

Cash

$ 4,533

$ 4,421

Receivables

22,199

4,766

Receivables

3,550

7,259

Inventories

20,359

17,632

Inventories

23,500

17,678

Prepaids and other current assets

6,992

7,209

Prepaids and other current assets

11,464

11,252

58,197

32,960

43,047

40,610

Property and Equipment:

Property and Equipment:

Property and Equipment:

Land

174,081

174,143

Land

174,081

174,081

Land improvements

163,086

153,498

Land improvements

163,856

163,952

Buildings

307,682

298,037

Buildings

308,959

308,748

Rides and equipment

716,006

671,830

Rides and equipment

711,125

714,862

Construction in progress

10,055

20,470

Construction in progress

37,291

23,434

1,370,910

1,317,978

1,395,312

1,385,077

Less accumulated depreciation

(411,859)

(371,007)

Less accumulated depreciation

(416,810)

(417,821)

959,051

946,971

978,502

967,256

Intangibles and other assets, net

Intangibles and other assets, net

11,578

13,277

Intangibles and other assets, net

16,337

16,928

$ 1,028,826

$ 993,208

$ 1,037,886

$ 1,024,794

LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS' EQUITY

LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS' EQUITY

Current Liabilities:

Current Liabilities:

Current Liabilities:

Current maturities of long-term debt

$ 20,000

$ 20,000

Current maturities of long-term debt

$ 40,000

$ 20,000

Accounts payable

41,042

21,708

Accounts payable

19,098

16,590

Distribution payable to partners

24,731

24,066

Distribution payable to partners

25,337

24,747

Accrued interest

4,053

6,857

Deferred revenue

15,545

10,794

Accrued taxes

17,327

17,832

Accrued interest

4,187

6,698

Accrued salaries, wages and benefits

21,537

13,751

Accrued taxes

11,395

21,395

Self-insurance reserves

14,350

14,258

Accrued salaries, wages and benefits

11,726

14,021

Other accrued liabilities

3,685

3,045

Self-insurance reserves

13,790

14,386

146,725

121,517

Other accrued liabilities

1,840

2,102

142,918

130,733

Accrued Taxes

-

52,438

Other Liabilities

Other Liabilities

8,199

6,686

Other Liabilities

7,656

8,977

Long-Term Debt:

Long-Term Debt:

Long-Term Debt:

Revolving credit loans

72,500

75,400

Revolving credit loans

179,600

105,850

Term debt

345,000

366,684

Term debt

325,000

345,000

417,500

442,084

504,600

450,850

Partners' Equity:

Partners' Equity:

Partners' Equity:

Special L.P. interests

5,290

5,290

Special L.P. interests

5,290

5,290

General partner

1

-

General partner

1

1

Limited partners, 53,763 and 53,480 units outstanding at

Limited partners, 53,908 and 53,797 units outstanding at

September 25, 2005 and December 31, 2004, respectively

451,111

365,193

March 26, 2006 and December 31, 2005, respectively

377,421

428,943

456,402

370,483

382,712

434,234

$ 1,028,826

$ 993,208

$ 1,037,886

$ 1,024,794

The accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

CEDAR FAIR, L.P.

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(In thousands, except per unit amounts)

Three months ended

Nine months ended

Twelve months ended

9/25/05

9/26/04

9/25/05

9/26/04

9/25/05

9/26/04

Three months ended

Twelve months ended

(As restated,

(As restated,

3/26/06

3/27/05

3/26/06

3/27/05

see Note 5)

see Note 5)

Net revenues:

Net revenues:

Net revenues:

Admissions

$166,912

$ 159,870

$ 249,057

$ 240,073

$ 285,745

$ 272,139

Admissions

$ 8,519

$ 8,181

$ 292,746

$ 275,890

Food, merchandise and games

117,094

113,849

188,772

185,355

214,677

210,310

Food, merchandise and games

11,782

11,234

219,642

211,017

Accommodations and other

33,019

31,883

52,849

48,385

58,415

52,414

Accommodations and other

3,644

5,386

55,463

56,656

317,025

305,602

490,678

473,813

558,837

534,863

23,945

24,801

567,851

543,563

Costs and expenses:

Costs and expenses:

Costs and expenses:

Cost of food, merchandise

Cost of food, merchandise

and games revenues

29,874

29,226

49,437

48,483

57,675

56,039

and games revenues

3,624

3,516

57,714

56,757

Operating expenses

92,916

94,959

200,197

195,310

246,949

234,922

Operating expenses

36,068

35,705

244,006

246,881

Selling, general and adminstrative

29,900

30,718

59,834

58,645

71,360

69,129

Selling, general and administrative

8,473

9,571

73,273

74,754

Non-cash unit option expense

Depreciation and amortization

3,474

3,454

55,785

50,701

(substantially all selling, general

51,639

52,246

430,778

429,093

and administrative)

60

1,088

1,079

3,408

2,169

4,913

Depreciation and amortization

28,102

24,425

49,042

43,972

55,760

49,913

180,852

180,416

359,589

349,818

433,913

414,916

Operating income

136,173

125,186

131,089

123,995

124,924

119,947

Operating income (loss)

Operating income (loss)

(27,694)

(27,445)

137,073

114,470

Interest expense

Interest expense

6,464

7,105

19,813

19,259

25,817

24,914

Interest expense

7,201

6,501

26,905

25,972

Other (income)

Other (income)

-

(1,175)

(459)

(3,632)

(1,290)

(4,912)

Other (income)

-

(459)

-

(4,059)

Income before taxes

129,709

119,256

111,735

108,368

100,397

99,945

Income (loss) before taxes

Income (loss) before taxes

(34,895)

(33,487)

110,168

92,557

Provision (credit) for taxes

Provision (credit) for taxes

(41,122)

27,533

(46,802)

22,311

(50,398)

18,475

Provision (credit) for taxes

(8,391)

(8,923)

(48,744)

18,271

Net income

170,831

91,723

158,537

86,057

150,795

81,470

Net income (loss)

Net income (loss)

(26,504)

(24,564)

158,912

74,286

Net income (loss) allocated to

Net income (loss) allocated to

Net income (loss) allocated to

general partner

2

1

2

(32)

2

(43)

general partner

-

-

2

(2)

Net income allocated to

Net income (loss) allocated to

Net income (loss) allocated to

limited partners

$170,829

$ 91,722

$ 158,535

$ 86,089

$ 150,793

$ 81,513

limited partners

$ (26,504)

$ (24,564)

$ 158,910

$ 74,288

Basic earnings per limited partner unit:

Basic earnings per limited partner unit:

Basic earnings per limited partner unit:

Weighted average limited partner

Weighted average limited partner

units outstanding

53,737

52,779

53,617

50,928

53,581

51,229

units outstanding

53,853

53,487

53,745

52,639

Net income per limited

Net income (loss) per limited

partner unit

$ 3.18

$ 1.74

$ 2.96

$ 1.69

$ 2.81

$ 1.59

partner unit

$ (0.49)

$ (0.46)

$ 2.96

$ 1.41

Diluted earnings per limited partner unit:

Diluted earnings per limited partner unit:

Diluted earnings per limited partner unit:

Weighted average limited partner

Weighted average limited partner

units outstanding

54,994

53,860

54,943

52,086

54,915

52,347

units outstanding

53,853

53,487

54,931

53,968

Net income per limited

Net income (loss) per limited

partner unit

$ 3.11

$ 1.70

$ 2.89

$ 1.65

$ 2.75

$ 1.56

partner unit

$ (0.49)

$ (0.46)

$ 2.89

$ 1.38

The accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

CEDAR FAIR, L.P.

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF PARTNERS' EQUITY

FOR THE NINETHREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 25, 2005MARCH 26, 2006

(In thousands, except per unit amounts)

Limited

Partner

Limited

General

Special

Total

Units

Partners'

Partner's

L.P.

Partners'

Outstanding

Equity

Equity

Interests

Equity

Balance at December 31, 2004

53,480

$ 365,193

$ -

$ 5,290

$ 370,483

Net (loss)

-

(24,564)

-

-

(24,564)

Partnership distribution declared

($0.46 per limited partnership unit)

-

(24,630)

-

-

(24,630)

Expense recognized for limited

partnership unit options

-

955

-

-

955

Limited partnership unit options

exercised

39

37

-

-

37

Issuance of limited partner units

as compensation

23

754

-

-

754

Balance at March 27, 2005

53,542

317,745

-

5,290

323,035

Net income

-

12,270

-

-

12,270

Partnership distribution declared

($0.46 per limited partnership unit)

-

(24,696)

-

-

(24,696)

Expense recognized for limited

partnership unit options

-

64

-

-

64

Limited partnership unit options

exercised

144

-

-

-

-

Balance at June 26, 2005

53,686

305,383

-

5,290

310,673

Net income

-

170,829

2

-

170,831

Partnership distribution declared

($0.46 per limited partnership unit)

-

(24,730)

(1)

-

(24,731)

Expense recognized for limited

partnership unit options

-

60

-

-

60

Limited partnership unit options

exercised

77

(431)

-

-

(431)

Balance at September 25, 2005

53,763

$ 451,111

$ 1

$ 5,290

$ 456,402

Limited

Partner

Limited

General

Special

Total

Units

Partners'

Partner's

L.P.

Partners'

Outstanding

Equity

Equity

Interests

Equity

Balance at December 31, 2005

53,797

$ 428,943

$ 1

$ 5,290

$ 434,234

Net (loss)

-

(26,504)

-

-

(26,504)

Partnership distribution declared

($0.47 per limited partnership unit)

-

(25,337)

-

-

(25,337)

Expense recognized for limited

partnership unit options

-

12

-

-

12

Limited partnership unit options

exercised

97

296

-

-

296

Tax effect of units involved in option

exercises and treasury unit transactions

-

(400)

-

-

(400)

Issuance of limited partner units

as compensation

14

411

-

-

411

Balance at March 26, 2006

53,908

$ 377,421

$ 1

$ 5,290

$ 382,712

The accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of this statement.

CEDAR FAIR, L.P.

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)

Three months ended

Nine months ended

Twelve months ended

9/25/05

9/26/04

9/25/05

9/26/04

9/25/05

9/26/04

(As restated,

(As restated,

see Note 5)

see Note 5)

CASH FLOWS FROM (FOR) OPERATING

ACTIVITIES

Net income

$ 170,831

$ 91,723

$ 158,537

$ 86,057

$ 150,795

$ 81,470

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net

cash from operating activities

Depreciation and amortization

28,102

24,425

49,042

43,972

55,760

49,913

Non-cash unit option expense

60

1,088

1,079

3,408

2,169

4,913

Other non-cash (income)

-

(1,175)

(459)

(3,632)

(1,290)

(4,912)

Change in assets and liabilities, net of effects

from acquisition:

(Increase) decrease in inventories

8,339

7,971

(2,727)

(3,179)

(1,227)

(1,455)

(Increase) decrease in current and other assets

8,274

15,224

(17,625)

(11,694)

(5,778)

(3,174)

Increase (decrease) in accounts payable

(16,559)

(11,872)

19,093

19,311

(205)

11,905

Increase (decrease) in accrued taxes

(60,451)

12,556

(53,992)

17,170

(58,427)

11,677

Increase in self-insurance reserves

469

1,777

92

2,103

1,346

2,227

Increase (decrease) in other current liabilities

1,690

(2,383)

5,622

5,033

1,612

5,977

Increase (decrease) in other liabilities

482

227

(1)

2,210

1,298

(748)

Net cash from operating activities

141,237

139,561

158,661

160,759

146,053

157,793

CASH FLOWS FROM (FOR) INVESTING

ACTIVITIES

Acquisition of Geauga Lake assets

-

-

-

(144,269)

-

(144,269)

Capital expenditures

(14,813)

(19,314)

(60,698)

(55,122)

(81,454)

(62,882)

Net cash (for) investing activities

(14,813)

(19,314)

(60,698)

(199,391)

(81,454)

(207,151)

CASH FLOWS FROM (FOR) FINANCING

ACTIVITIES

Net proceeds from public offering of limited

partnership units

-

73,278

-

73,278

-

73,278

Net borrowings (payments) on revolving credit loans

(95,500)

(155,600)

(2,900)

(13,350)

48,100

(84,250)

Term debt borrowings

-

-

-

75,000

-

175,000

Term debt payments

(20,000)

(20,000)

(20,000)

(20,000)

(20,000)

(20,000)

Distributions paid to partners

(24,696)

(22,922)

(73,391)

(68,085)

(97,457)

(90,386)

Termination of interest rate swap agreements

2,967

-

2,967

-

2,967

-

Exercise of limited partnership unit options

618

3

655

86

655

86

Cash paid in repurchase of 0.1% general partner

interest

-

(708)

-

(708)

-

(708)

Net cash from (for) financing activities

(136,611)

(125,949)

(92,669)

46,221

(65,735)

53,020

CASH

Net increase (decrease) for the period

(10,187)

(5,702)

5,294

7,589

(1,136)

3,662

Balance, beginning of period

18,834

15,485

3,353

2,194

9,783

6,121

Balance, end of period

$ 8,647

$ 9,783

$ 8,647

$ 9,783

$ 8,647

$ 9,783

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

Cash payments for interest expense

$ 9,364

$ 9,869

$ 22,617

$ 21,785

$ 24,858

$ 23,698

Interest capitalized

64

480

418

762

870

861

Cash payments for income taxes

5,224

4,585

6,310

5,774

9,368

8,173

Three months ended

Twelve months ended

3/26/06

3/27/05

3/26/06

3/27/05

CASH FLOWS FROM (FOR) OPERATING

ACTIVITIES

Net income (loss)

$ (26,504)

$ (24,564)

$ 158,912

$ 74,286

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net

cash from (for) operating activities:

Depreciation and amortization

3,474

3,454

55,785

50,701

Non-cash unit option expense

12

955

170

4,116

Other non-cash (income) expense

79

(459)

13

(4,059)

Change in assets and liabilities, net of effects from

acquisition:

(Increase) in inventories

(5,822)

(4,489)

(1,379)

(3,339)

(Increase) decrease in current and other assets

4,080

(9,835)

1,464

(517)

Increase (decrease) in accounts payable

4,100

5,547

4,339

(1,069)

Increase (decrease) in accrued taxes

(10,400)

1,732

(62,038)

13,678

Increase (decrease) in self-insurance reserves

(596)

(1,031)

563

2,555

Increase (decrease) in deferred revenue and

other current liabilities

94

(3,652)

2,804

(1,876)

Increase (decrease) in other liabilities

(1,273)

(1,216)

536

3,633

Net cash from (for) operating activities

(32,756)

(33,558)

161,169

138,109

CASH FLOWS FROM (FOR) INVESTING

ACTIVITIES

Acquisition of Geauga Lake assets

-

-

-

(144,269)

Capital expenditures

(16,431)

(17,116)

(74,789)

(77,026)

Net cash (for) investing activities

(16,431)

(17,116)

(74,789)

(221,295)

CASH FLOWS FROM (FOR) FINANCING

ACTIVITIES

Net proceeds from public offering of limited

partnership units

-

-

-

73,268

Net borrowings (payments) on revolving credit loans

73,750

75,950

28,250

50,800

Term debt borrowings

-

-

-

75,000

Term debt payments

-

-

(20,000)

(20,000)

Distributions paid to partners

(24,747)

(24,066)

(98,803)

(93,898)

Termination of interest rate swap agreeements

-

-

2,981

-

Exercise of limited partnership unit options

296

37

1,125

106

Cash paid in repurchase of 0.1% general partner interest

-

-

-

(708)

Net cash from (for) financing activities

49,299

51,921

(86,447)

84,568

CASH

Net increase (decrease) for the period

112

1,247

(67)

1,382

Balance, beginning of period

4,421

3,353

4,600

3,218

Balance, end of period

$ 4,533

$ 4,600

$ 4,533

$ 4,600

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

Cash payments for interest expense

$ 9,712

$ 10,075

$ 26,001

$ 25,054

Interest capitalized

293

200

695

1,277

Cash payments for income taxes

453

18

9,187

8,846

 

The accompanying Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

CEDAR FAIR, L.P.

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE PERIODS ENDED SEPTEMBER 25,MARCH 26, 2006 AND MARCH 27, 2005 AND SEPTEMBER 26, 2004

 

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared from the financial records of Cedar Fair, L.P. (the Partnership) without audit and reflect all adjustments which are, in the opinion of management, necessary to fairly present the results of the interim periods covered in this report.

Due to the highly seasonal nature of the Partnership's amusement and water park operations, the results for any interim period are not indicative of the results to be expected for the full calendarfiscal year. Accordingly, the Partnership has elected to present financial information regarding operations and cash flows for the preceding twelve-month periods ended September 25,March 26, 2006 and March 27, 2005 and September 26, 2004 to accompany the three and nine-monthquarterly results. Because amounts for the twelve months ended September 25,March 26, 2006 include actual 2005 include 2004 fourth quarterpeak season operating results, they may not be indicative of 20052006 full calendar year operations.

 

(1) Significant Accounting and Reporting Policies:

The Partnership's unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for the periods ended September 25,March 26, 2006 and March 27, 2005 and September 26, 2004 included in this Form 10-Q report have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies described in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2004,2005, which were included in the Form 10-K filed on March 16, 2005.14, 2006. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles have been condensed or omitted pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and the notes thereto included in the Form 10-K referred to above.

Effective January 1, 2003, theThe Partnership began to accounthas been recording expense for unit optionsequity-based compensation under the fair value recognition provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation.Compensation," Thesince January 1, 2003. Effective January 1, 2006, the Partnership selectedadopted SFAS No. 123(R), "Share-Based Payment," which is a revision of SFAS No. 123. Generally, the modified prospective method of adoptionapproach in SFAS No. 123(R) is similar to the fair value approach described in SFAS No. 148, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation-Transition and Disclosure." Approximately $1.1 million and $3.4 million in non-cash compensation expense was recognized in the nine months ended September 25, 2005 and September 26, 2004, respectively, which is the same amount that would have been recognized had the provisions123. The adoption of SFAS No. 123 been applied from its original effective date.

SFAS No. 123(R) was issued in December 2004, requiring that the compensation cost relating to share-based payment transactions be recognized in the financial statements. That cost will be measured baseddid not have a material impact on the fair value of the equity or liability instruments issued. SFAS No. 123(R) covers a wide range of share-based compensation arrangements including share options, restricted share plans, performance-based awards, share appreciation rights, and employee share purchase plans. SFAS No. 123(R) replaces SFAS No. 123. The provisions of this Statement become effective for the Partnership on January 1, 2006. The Partnership has not yet determined the impact that this Statement will have on itsPartnership's consolidated financial statements. Non-cash unit option expense, previously reported as a separate item in the statements of operations, has been reclassified to selling, general and administrative expenses.

Certain prior year balances have been reclassified to conform to current year presentation.

 

(2) Interim Reporting:

The Partnership owns and operates seven amusement parks: Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio; Knott's Berry Farm located near Los Angeles in Buena Park, California; Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom near Allentown, Pennsylvania; Valleyfair near Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota; Worlds of Fun in Kansas City, Missouri; Geauga Lake & Wildwater Kingdom near Cleveland, Ohio; Valleyfair near Minneapolis, Minnesota; Worlds of Fun in Kansas City, Missouri; and Michigan's Adventure near Muskegon, Michigan. The Partnership also owns and operates separate-gated outdoor water parks near San Diego and in Palm Springs, California, and adjacent to Cedar Point, Knott's Berry Farm and Worlds of Fun, and the Castaway Bay Indoor Waterpark Resort in Sandusky, Ohio. Virtually all of the Partnership's revenues from its seasonal amusement parks, as well as its outdoor water parks and other seasonal resort facilities, are realized during a four-month130 to 140-day operating period beginning in early May, with the major portion concentrated in the third quarter during the peak vacation months of July and August. Both Castaway Ba yBay and Knott's Berry Farm are open year-round, but Knott's Berry Farm operates at its highestlowest level of attendance from July through October as well.during the first quarter of the year.

To assure that these highly seasonal operations will not result in misleading comparisons of current and subsequent interim periods, the Partnership has adopted the following accounting and reporting procedures for its seasonal parks: (a) revenues on multi-day admission tickets are recognized over the estimated number of visits expected for each type of ticket and are adjusted at the end of each seasonal period, (b) depreciation, advertising and certain seasonal operating costs are expensed during each park's operating season, including certain costs incurred prior to the season which are amortized over the season, and (c) all other costs are expensed as incurred or ratably over the entire year.

 

(3) Contingencies:

The Partnership is a party to a number of lawsuits arising in the normal course of business. In the opinion of management, these matters will not have a material effect in the aggregate on the Partnership's financial statements.

 

(4) Earnings per Unit:

Net income per limited partner unit is calculated based on the following unit amounts:

 

Three months ended

 

Nine months ended

 

Twelve months ended

 

9/25/2005

 

9/26/2004

 

9/25/2005

 

9/26/2004

 

9/25/2005

 

9/26/2004

 

(In thousands except per unit amounts)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic weighted average units

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

outstanding

53,737

 

52,779

 

53,617

 

50,928

 

53,581

 

51,229

Effect of dilutive units:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unit options

1,257

 

1,081

 

1,326

 

1,158

 

1,334

 

1,118

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diluted weighted average units

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

outstanding

54,994

 

53,860

 

54,943

 

52,086

 

54,915

 

52,347

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income per unit - basic

$ 3.18

 

$ 1.74

 

$ 2.96

 

$ 1.69

 

$ 2.81

 

$ 1.59

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income per unit - diluted

$ 3.11

 

$ 1.70

 

$ 2.89

 

$ 1.65

 

$ 2.75

 

$ 1.56

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(5) Restatement of Unaudited Interim Results:

 

Three months ended

 

Twelve months ended

 

03/26/06

 

03/27/05

 

03/26/06

 

03/27/05

(In thousands except per unit amounts)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic weighted average units outstanding

53,853

 

53,487

 

53,745

 

52,639

Effect of dilutive units:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unit options

-

 

-

 

1,022

 

1,169

Phantom units

-

-

164

160

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diluted weighted average units outstanding

53,853

 

53,487

 

54,931

 

53,968

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss) per unit - basic

$ (0.49)

 

$ (0.46)

 

$ 2.96

 

$ 1.41

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss) per unit - diluted

$ (0.49)

 

$ (0.46)

 

$ 2.89

 

$ 1.38

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ManagementThe effect of the Partnership determined during the preparation of the annual financial statements for 2004,unit options and the analysis of deferred tax accounts related thereto, that the Partnership had incorrectly accounted for the provision for income taxes in addressing the tax attributes of its corporate subsidiaries.  There was no effectphantom units on the provision for taxes or net income in the financial statements included in the Partnership's 2004 Form 10-K; however, the impact on a quarterly basis was material due to the seasonality of its operations.

As a result, the Partnership concluded that it should restate its accounting for deferred income taxes as presented in its fiscal 2004 quarters, and the effect of the restatement on the third quarter and ninethree months ended SeptemberMarch 26, 2004 are as set forth below. The amounts for the twelve months ended September 26, 2004 have2006 and March 27, 2005, had they not been restated as the impact in that period was not material.antidilutive, would have been 1.0 million and 1.4 million units, respectively.

 

 

Three Months

Nine Months

 

 

Ended September 26, 2004

Ended September 26, 2004

 

 

As Previously

As

As Previously

As

 

 

Reported

Restated

Reported

Restated

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Operations

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income before taxes

 

$ 119,256

 

$ 119,256

 

$ 108,368

 

$ 108,368

Provision for taxes

 

10,383

 

27,533

 

16,201

 

22,311

Net income

 

108,873

 

91,723

 

92,167

 

86,057

Net income per limited partner

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

unit - diluted

 

$ 2.02

 

$ 1.70

 

$ 1.77

 

$ 1.65

 

 

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Business Overview:

We generate our revenues primarily from sales of (1) admission to our parks, (2) food, merchandise and games inside our parks, and (3) hotel rooms, food and other attractions outside our parks. Our principal costs and expenses, which include salaries and wages, advertising, maintenance, operating supplies, utilities and insurance, are relatively fixed and do not vary significantly with attendance. The fixed nature of these costs makes attendance a key factor in the profitability of each park.

A substantial portion of our revenues from our seasonal amusement parks, as well as our water parks and other seasonal resort facilities, are realized during a 130 to 140-day operating period beginning in early May and extending into October, with the major portion concentrated in the third quarter during the peak vacation months of July and August. Castaway Bay and Knott's Berry Farm are our only year-round properties, but Knott's Berry Farm operates at its highest level of attendance from July through October as well. As a result, we have historically generated all of our net income during the second and third quarters of each year and incurred losses during the first and fourth quarters.

 

Critical Accounting Policies:

This management's discussion and analysis is based upon our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements, which were prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. These principles require us to make estimates and assumptions during the normal course of business that affect the reported amounts in the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements. Actual results could differ significantly from those estimates under different assumptions and conditions. The following discussion addresses our critical accounting policies, which are those that are most important to the portrayal of our financial condition and operating results and involve a higher degree of judgment and complexity (see(See Note 2 to our Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2004,2005, as included in the Form 10-K filed on March 16, 2005,14, 2006, for a complete discussion of our significant accounting policies).

Property and Equipment -Property and equipment are recorded at cost. Expenditures made to maintain such assets in their original operating condition are expensed as incurred, and improvements and upgrades are capitalized. Depreciation is computed on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets. The composite method is used for the group of assets acquired as a whole in 1983, as well as for the groups of like assets of each subsequent business acquisition. The unit method is used for all individual assets purchased.

Self-Insurance Reserves -Reserves are recorded for the estimated amounts of guest and employee claims and expenses incurred each period that are not covered by insurance. These estimates are established based upon historical claims data and third-party estimates of settlement costs for incurred claims. These reserves are periodically reviewed for changes in these factors and adjustments are made as needed.

Revenue Recognition -Revenues on multi-day admission tickets are recognized over the estimated number of visits expected for each type of ticket, and are adjusted at the end of each seasonal period. All other revenues are recognized on a daily basis based on actual guest spending at our facilities, or over the park operating season in the case of certain marina dockage revenues.

Results of Operations:

As discussed in Note 5 to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements,First Quarter -

Operating results for the threefirst quarter include normal off-season operating, maintenance and nine months ended September 26, 2004 have been restated. This discussionadministrative expenses at our six seasonal amusement parks and analysis gives effect to the restatement.

Third Quarter -

For the quarter ended September 25, 2005, consolidated net revenues increased 4% to $317.0 million from $305.6 million in 2004, on a 1% increase, or approximately 61,000 visits, in combined attendance, a 2% increase in average in-park guest per capita spending, and a 10%, or $4.2 million, increase in out-of-park revenues, including resort hotels. The large increase in out-of-park revenues was due to the strong third-quarter results of the Castaway Bay Indoor Waterpark Resort, which opened in November 2004,five outdoor water parks, as well as improved results at our Knott's Berry Farm hotel and the introduction of a new T.G.I. Friday's restaurantdaily operations at Knott's Berry Farm in July of 2005.

The increase in attendanceand Castaway Bay, which are open year-round. Net revenues for the first quarter of 2006 decreased 4% to $23.9 million from $24.8 million in the same period a year ago, due primarily to a decrease in revenues at our indoor water park resort, Castaway Bay, in Sanduksy, Ohio. This decrease was led by strong performancesthe result of lower occupancy and average daily room rates at the resort in 2006, which were anticipated in light of increased competition in the Sandusky area and following a very successful inaugural year in 2005. In addition, the first quarter results for 2005 benefited from Dorney Parkthe earlier timing of the Easter and Michigan's Adventure, both ofspring-break seasons compared to the current year, which introduced significant new rides this season, and our two Midwest water parks,should benefit the second quarter. The decrease in revenues at Castaway Bay were somewhat offset b y improved operating results at Knott's Berry Farm, which benefited from a hot, dry summer. In addition, attendance at Geauga Lake continuedfavorable weather comparisons to improve, up 43,000 visits for the first quarter with the increasing popularity of its new water park. These gains helped offset attendance shortfalls during the period at our other seasonal amusement parks.2005 when Southern California experienced record rainfall.

TotalExcluding depreciation and other non-cash charges, total operating costs and expenses for the quarter excluding depreciation and other non-cash charges, decreased 1%increased slightly to $152.7$48.2 million from $154.9$47.8 million in 2004, due to a continued focus on controlling costs and improving operating efficiencies.2005. After depreciation and a small non-cash charge for unit options, operating incomecosts and expenses decreased 1% to $51.6 million from $52.2 million in 2005.

Interest expense for the first quarter increased 9%$700,000, or 11%, due in large part to $136.2 millionhigher short-term rates. In addition, the unamortized loan fees from $125.2 millionour previous revolving credit agreement, which was replaced with a year ago.new facility in the period, were charged to interest expense.

Included in the 2004 third-quarter2005 first quarter net income is a non-cash credit of $1.2 million$459,000 to account for the change in fair value of two interest rate swap agreements that expired during the first quarter of 2005.in that quarter. As such, there is no similar non-cash credit in the current period.

After non-cash credits, interest expense and provisioncredit for taxes, as restated,our net incomeloss for the period totaled $170.8was $26.5 million, or $3.11$0.49 per diluted limited partner unit, compared to a net incomeloss of $91.7$24.6 million, or $1.70$0.46 per unit, a year ago.

Reflected in our third quarter numbers is the reversal of $66.1 million of contingent liabilities recorded in prior periods related to publicly traded partnership (PTP) taxes. The accrual was established when the PTP taxes first came into effect, because we could not be certain at that time how the taxes would be applied. Now after a number of years of filing returns, we have a fair amount of evidence as to how the taxes are imposed, including the completion of examinations of our tax filings. Based on this evidence, we determined that our accrual was no longer required and have reversed the $66.1 million of contingent liabilities back into income in the third quarter. The adjustment to the PTP tax accrual, which was offset somewhat by PTP taxes payable for the period and the third-quarter impact of the tax attributes of our corporate subsidiaries, resulted in a net credit for taxes of $41.1 million in the period. It is important to note that since this is a reversal of a previously r ecorded accrual, it has no affect on the Partnership's cash flow in the current period. Excluding the impact of reversing the PTP tax accrual and assuming a comparable third quarter accrual to 2004, net income for the period would have been $99.3 million, or $1.81 per diluted limited partner unit.

NineTwelve Months Ended September 25, 2005March 26, 2006 -

For the ninetwelve months ended September 25,March 26, 2006, which included actual 2005 peak season operating results, net revenues increased 4%5% to $490.7$567.9 million from $473.8$543.6 million for the nine-monthtwelve months ended March 27, 2005, which included actual 2004 peak season operating results. Over this same period, ended September 26, 2004, on a 3% increase in average in-park guest per capita spending, a 14%, or $10.1 million, increase in out-of-park revenues, and a 1% decrease in combined attendance. The 14% increase in out-of-park revenues was driven primarily by the strong performance of Castaway Bay, improved results at our Knott's Berry Farm Resort hotel and the introduction of the T.G.I. Friday's restaurant at Knott's Berry Farm.

Through the first nine months of the year, our operating costs and expenses, before depreciation and other non-cash charges, increased 2%, or $7.0 million,only slightly to $309.4$374.8 million from $302.4 million in 2004, due to the first quarter costs and expenses of Geauga Lake, which was acquired in April 2004, and the incremental operating costs of Castaway Bay, which opened in November 2004. After depreciation and a small non-cash charge for unit options, operating income for the period was $131.1 million, compared to operating income of $124.0 million in 2004.

Through the first nine months of the year, we recognized a non-cash credit of $459,000 for the change in fair value of interest rate swap agreements during the period, compared with a non-cash credit of $3.6 million in 2004. These swap agreements expired in the first quarter of 2005.

Interest expense for the nine-month period increased $554,000 to $19.8 million due to higher short-term interest rates on our variable-rate debt, as well as higher borrowing levels during the year due to the acquisition of Geauga Lake in 2004. After interest expense, provision for taxes, as restated, and non-cash credits, the net income for the first nine months of the year was $158.5 million, or $2.89 per diluted limited partner unit, compared to a net income of $86.1 million, or $1.65 per diluted limited partner unit a year ago. Excluding the impact of reversing the PTP tax accrual and assuming a comparable third quarter accrual to 2004, net income for the nine months ended September 25, 2005 would have been $87.0 million, or $1.58 per unit.

Twelve Months Ended September 25, 2005 -

For the twelve months ended September 25, 2005, which included actual 2004 fourth quarter operating results, net revenues increased 4% to $558.8 million from $534.9 million for the twelve-month period ended September 26, 2004, which included actual 2003 fourth quarter operating results. The increase in consolidated revenues was the results of flat combined attendance for the twelve-month period, a 3% increase in average in-park guest per capita spending, and a 14%, or $12.2 million, increase in out-of-park revenues. The 14% increase in out-of-park revenues was due to the contribution and strong performance of Castaway Bay, which opened in November 2004.

For the twelve months ended September 25, 2005, our operating costs and expenses, before depreciation and other non-cash charges, increased 4%, or $15.9 million, to $376.0 million from $360.1 million from the twelve months ended September 26, 2004. This was primarily due to the additional operating costs and expenses of Geauga Lake, which was acquired in April 2004, and the incremental operating costs of Castaway Bay subsequent to its opening.$374.3 million. After depreciation and a non-cash charge for unit options, operating income for the twelve-monthtwelve month period was $124.9$137.1 million compared to operating income of $119.9$114.5 million over the same period in 2004.2005.

For the current twelve-month period ended March 27, 2005, we recognized a non-cash credit of $1.3$4.1 million for the change in fair value of the two interest rate swap agreements that expired in the first quarter of 2005, compared with a2005. As such, there is no similar non-cash credit of $4.9 million forin the twelve months ended September 26, 2004.

Interestcurrent twelve-month period. After non-cash credits, interest expense for the twelve-month period increased $903,000 to $25.8 million due to higher short-term interest rates on our variable-rate debt, as well as higher borrowing levels during the period due to the acquisition of Geauga Lake in April of 2004. After interest expense,and provision for taxes, as restated, and non-cash credits, the net income for the twelve months ended September 25, 2005 was $150.8increased to $158.9 million, or $2.75$2.89 per diluted limited partner unit, compared to afrom $74.3 million, or $1.38 per unit, in the prior period. The increase in net income of $81.5 million, or $1.56 per diluted limited partner unit, for the twelve months ended September 26, 2004.twelve-month period is primarily attributable to the reversal in the third quarter of 2005 of $62.6 million of contingent liabilities recorded in prior years related to publicly traded partnership (PTP) taxes. Excluding the impact of reversing the PTP tax accrual and assuming a comparable third quarter accrual to 2004, net income forthroughout the twelve-month period would have been $79.3 million, or $1.44 per unit

October 2005 -

Results for the month of October benefited from above average weather, as well as the growing popularity of our fall promotions. For the month, consolidated revenues on a preliminary basis were up 15% between years. This was the result of an increase in combined attendance of 10%, or 100,000 visits, which all but erased shortfalls through September, a 5% increase in average in-park guest per capita spending, and a more than 20% increase, or $1.0 million, in out-of-park revenues.

Adjusted EBITDA -

We believe that adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and all other non-cash items) is a meaningful measure of park-level operating profitability because we use it for measuring returns on capital investments, evaluating potential acquisitions, determining awards under incentive compensation plans, and calculating compliance with certain loan covenants. For the third quarter, adjusted EBITDA increased $13.6 million to $164.3 million compared to the same period a year ago. This increase was due to the strong operating results at Dorney Park and Knott's Berry Farm during the quarter, as well as significant improvement in operating results at Geauga Lake & Wildwater Kingdom. For the nine-month period, adjusted EBITDA increased $9.8 million to $181.2 million, due to the strong third-quarter performances noted above, offset somewhat by the additional three months of off-season costs at Geauga Lake in 2005, which we did not incur in 2004.

Adjusted EBITDA is provided here as a supplemental measure of our operating results and is not intended to be a substitute for operating income, net income or cash flows from operating activities as defined under generally accepted accounting principles. In addition, adjusted EBITDA may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies. The following table sets forth a reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA toago, net income for the three and nine-month periodstwelve months ended September 25, 2005 and SeptemberMarch 26, 2004.2006 would have been $88.8 million, or $1.61 per un it, compared to $74.3 million, or $1.38 per unit, a year ago.

Three months ended

Nine months ended

Twelve months ended

9/25/2005

9/26/2004

9/25/2005

9/26/2004

9/25/2005

9/26/2004

(In thousands)

Adjusted EBITDA

$ 164,335

$ 150,699

$ 181,210

$ 171,375

$ 182,853

$ 174,773

Depreciation and amortization

28,102

24,425

49,042

43,972

55,760

49,913

Non-cash unit option expense

60

1,088

1,079

3,408

2,169

4,913

Operating income

136,173

125,186

131,089

123,995

124,924

119,947

Interest expense

6,464

7,105

19,813

19,259

25,817

24,914

Other (income)

-

(1,175)

(459)

(3,632)

(1,290)

(4,912)

Provision (credit) for taxes

(41,122)

27,533

(46,802)

22,311

(50,398)

18,475

Net income

$ 170,831

$ 91,723

$ 158,537

$ 86,057

$ 150,795

$ 81,470

Liquidity and Capital Resources:

We ended the thirdfirst quarter of 20052006 in sound financial condition in terms of both liquidity and cash flow. The negative working capital ratio (current liabilities divided by current assets) of 2.53.3 at September 25, 2005March 26, 2006 is the result of our highly seasonal business and careful management of cash flow to reduce borrowings. Receivables and inventories are at normal seasonal levels and credit facilities are in place to fund current liabilities.

On March 14, 2006, we entered into a new revolving credit agreement with KeyBank National Association and seven other banks as lenders under which we have available a maximum commitment of $250 million through March 2011. This credit facility may be expanded to an increased maximum commitment of $350 million at our option, subject to bank consent. Borrowings under this agreement bear interest at LIBOR plus 75 basis points per annum, with other rate options. Borrowings under the revolving credit facility totaled $179.6 million as of March 26, 2006.

At the end of the quarter, we had $365 million of fixed-rate term debt, with staggered maturities ranging from 2006 to 2018, as well as a $180 million revolving credit facility,of which, is available through March 2007, and an additional $30 million uncommitted bank credit facility. Borrowings under the revolving credit facility totaled $72.5 million as of September 25, 2005. Of the total term debt, $20$40 million is scheduled to mature within the next twelve months.

In August of 2005, we terminated several interest rate swap agreements, which were converting $100 million of fixed-rate term debt to variable rates. In return for terminating the swaps, we received $3.2$3.0 million in cash, which has been reflected as deferred income in "Other Liabilities" on the balance sheet and is being amortized over the remaining life of the underlying long-term debt that the swaps were effectively hedging prior to termination.

Credit facilities and cash flow from operations are expected to be adequate to meet working capital needs, planned capital expenditures and regular quarterly cash distributions for the foreseeable future.

Off Balance Sheet Arrangements:

We have no significant off-balance sheet financing arrangements.

Forward Looking Statements

Some of the statements contained in this report including(including the "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" section, constitutesection) that are not historical in nature are forward-looking statements.statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1933 and Section 21D of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, including statements as to our expectations, beliefs and strategies regarding the future. These forward-looking statements may involve risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict, may be beyond our control and could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in such statements. Although the Partnership believeswe believe that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, itwe can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to have beenbe correct. Important factors, including general economic conditions, competition for consumers' leisure time and spending, adverse weather conditions, unanticipated construction delays,those listed under Item 1A in the absence of historical operating experience at Geauga Lake & Wildwater Kingdom, and other factorsPartnership's Form 10-K, could adversely affect attendance and in-park guest per capita spending at our parksfuture financial performance and cause actual results to differ materially from the Partnership'sour expectations.

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

We are exposed to market risks from fluctuations in interest rates and, from time to time, currency exchange rates on imported rides and equipment. The objective of our financial risk management is to reduce the potential negative impact of interest rate and foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations to acceptable levels. We do not acquire market risk sensitive instruments for trading purposes.

As of September 25, 2005,At March 26, 2006, $365 million of our outstanding long-term debt $365.0 million representsrepresented fixed-rate debt and $72.5$179.6 million representsrepresented variable-rate debt. A hypothetical one percentage point increase in the applicable interest rates on our variable-rate debt would increase annual interest expense by approximately $1.2$1.3 million as of September 25, 2005.March 26, 2006.

 

 

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures -

The Partnership maintains a system of controls and procedures designed to provide reasonable assurance as to the reliability of the financial statements and other disclosures included in this report. As of September 25, 2005,March 26, 2006, the Partnership has evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of its disclosure controls and procedures under supervision of management, including the Partnership's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Partnership's disclosure controls and procedures are effective in timely alerting them to material information required to be included in the Partnership's periodic Securities and Exchange Commission filings.

(b) Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting -

No significant changes were made during the thirdfirst quarter of 20052006 that have materially affected the Partnership's internal control over financial reporting.

 

 

 

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS - None

 

ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS - None

 

ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES - None

 

ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS - None

 

ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION - None

 

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS

Exhibit (31.1)

Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

  

Exhibit (31.2)

Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

  

Exhibit (32.1)

Certifications Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SIGNATURES

 

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

CEDAR FAIR, L.P.

(Registrant)

By Cedar Fair Management, Inc.

General Partner

 

 

Date: November 3, 2005May 4, 2006

/s/ Peter J. Crage

 

Peter J. Crage

 

Corporate Vice President - Finance

 

(Chief Financial Officer)

  
  
  
 

/s/ Brian C. Witherow

 

Brian C. Witherow

 

Vice President and Corporate Controller

 

(Chief Accounting Officer)

 

 

 

 

INDEX TO EXHIBITS

 

 

   

Page Number

    

Exhibit (31.1)

Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to

Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 

1715

    

Exhibit (31.2)

Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to

Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 

1816

    

Exhibit (32.1)

Certifications Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to

Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 

1917