EXHIBIT 12 RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES Year Ended Year Ended December 31, December 31, 1996 1997 ------------ ------------ (in thousands) Loss before provision for income taxes............... $(1,915) $(2,479) Add fixed charges Interest costs including amortization of debt issuance cost....................................... 1,146 4,946 ------- ------- Earnings (loss) before fixed charges............. $ (769) $ 2,467 ======= ======= Fixed charges: Interest expense including amortization of debt issuance costs.................................... 1,146 4,946 Capitalized interest............................... 2,317 6,616 ------- ------- Total fixed charges.............................. $ 3,463 $11,562 ======= ======= Ratio of earnings to fixed charges................... -- .20 ======= ======= Deficiency of earnings to cover fixed charges........ $ 4,232 $ 9,095 ======= =======