AVALON HOLDINGS CORP - Annual Report: 2003 (Form 10-K)
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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
x | Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 |
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003
¨ | 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 1-14105
AVALON HOLDINGS CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Ohio | 34-1863889 | |
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) |
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) |
One American Way, Warren, Ohio 44484-5555
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Registrants telephone number, including area code: (330) 856-8800
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each Class |
Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered | |
Class A Common Stock, $.01 par value | American 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 x No ¨
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 registrants knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. ¨
The aggregate market value of Class A Common Stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant on February 13, 2004 was $11.4 million. Assuming that the market value of Avalon Holdings Corporations Class B Common Stock was the same as its Class A Common Stock by reason of its one-to-one conversion rights, the market value of Class B Common Stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant on February 13, 2004 was approximately $5,400. The registrant had 3,185,240 shares of its Class A Common Stock and 618,091 shares of its Class B Common Stock outstanding as of March 3, 2004.
Documents Incorporated by Reference
1. | Portions of the Avalon Holdings Corporation Annual Report to Shareholders for the year ended December 31, 2003 (Parts I and II of Form 10-K). |
2. | Portions of the Avalon Holdings Corporation Proxy Statement dated March 24, 2004 (Part III of Form 10-K). |
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AVALON HOLDINGS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
As used in this report, the terms Avalon, Company, and Registrant mean Avalon Holdings Corporation and its wholly owned subsidiaries, taken as a whole, unless the context indicates otherwise.
Page | ||||||
Part I | ||||||
Item 1. |
1 | |||||
Item 2. |
5 | |||||
Item 3. |
6 | |||||
Item 4. |
6 | |||||
Part II | ||||||
Item 5. |
Market for the Registrants Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters |
7 | ||||
Item 6. |
7 | |||||
Item 7. |
Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations |
7 | ||||
Item 7A. |
7 | |||||
Item 8. |
7 | |||||
Item 9. |
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure |
7 | ||||
Part III | ||||||
Item 10. |
8 | |||||
Item 11. |
9 | |||||
Item 12. |
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management |
9 | ||||
Item 13. |
9 | |||||
Part IV | ||||||
Item 14. |
10 | |||||
Item 15. |
Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and Reports on Form 8-K |
10 | ||||
Signatures | 12 |
Note on Incorporation by Reference
Throughout this report various information and data are incorporated by reference from Avalons 2003 Annual Report to Shareholders (hereinafter referred to as the Annual Report to Shareholders). Any reference in this report to disclosures in the Annual Report to Shareholders shall constitute incorporation by reference of that specific material into this Form 10-K.
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General
Avalon Holdings Corporation (Avalon) was formed on April 30, 1998 as a subsidiary of American Waste Services, Inc. (AWS). Pursuant to the terms of a Contribution and Distribution Agreement dated as of May 7, 1998 between Avalon and AWS, AWS contributed to Avalon its transportation operations, technical environmental services operations, waste disposal brokerage and management operations, and golf course and related operations, together with certain other assets including the headquarters of AWS and certain accounts receivable. In connection with the contribution, Avalon also assumed certain liabilities of AWS. On June 17, 1998, AWS distributed, as a special dividend, all of the outstanding shares of capital stock of Avalon to the holders of AWS common stock on a pro rata and corresponding basis (the Spin-off). Avalon has subsequently discontinued its technical environmental services operations.
In January 1990, AWS acquired Avalons transportation companies: DartAmericA, Inc. and its subsidiaries which provide hazardous and nonhazardous waste transportation, transportation of general and bulk commodities, and transportation brokerage and management services. These companies became subsidiaries of Avalon as a result of the Spin-off.
In June 1990, AWS purchased approximately 5.6 acres of real estate located in Warren, Ohio on which it constructed Avalons corporate headquarters. In connection with the acquisition of such property, Avalon Lakes Golf, Inc. (ALGI) acquired the real and personal property associated with the Avalon Lakes Golf Course, an 18-hole golf course adjacent to the office property. Avalons corporate headquarters building has been remodeled to include a clubhouse for the Avalon Lakes Golf Club. ALGI became a subsidiary of Avalon as a result of the Spin-off.
During 1995, American Waste Management Services, Inc., a subsidiary of AWS, commenced its waste disposal brokerage and management operations. This company became a subsidiary of Avalon as a result of the Spin-off.
During the third quarter of 1997, a newly organized subsidiary of AWS, American Landfill Management, Inc., started its captive landfill management operations. This company became a subsidiary of Avalon as a result of the Spin-off.
In November 2003, TBG, Inc., a subsidiary of Avalon, entered into a long-term lease agreement with Squaw Creek Country Club to lease and operate its golf course and related facilities. As a result of the transaction, Avalon created a newly organized subsidiary, Avalon Golf and Country Club, Inc.
Business Segments Information
Avalons business segments are transportation services, waste management services, and golf and related operations. Avalons technical environmental services segment has been eliminated and the management of a captive landfill which had been included in the technical environmental services segment has been combined with the waste disposal brokerage and management services segment to form the waste management services segment.
Transportation services and waste management services are provided to industrial, commercial, municipal and governmental customers primarily in selected northeastern and midwestern United States markets. Avalons transportation services segment provides transportation of hazardous and nonhazardous waste, transportation of general and bulk commodities and the brokerage and management of transportation services. For the years 2003, 2002 and 2001, the net operating revenues of the transportation services segment represented approximately 56%, 60% and 58%, respectively, of Avalons total segments net operating revenues. Avalons waste management services segment provides hazardous and nonhazardous waste brokerage and management services and captive landfill management
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services. For the years 2003, 2002 and 2001, the net operating revenues of the waste brokerage and management services segment represented approximately 39%, 37% and 40%, respectively, of Avalons total segments net operating revenues. Avalons golf course and related operations segment operates two 18-hole golf courses and related facilities. For the years 2003, 2002 and 2001, the net operating revenues of the golf and related operations segment represented approximately 5%, 3%, and 2%, respectively, of Avalons total segments net operating revenues. Avalon did not acquire the rights to the Squaw Creek Country Club facility until November, 2003. As such, net operating revenues relating to such facility were not material in 2003.
Transportation Services
Avalons transportation subsidiaries transport waste and other materials on behalf of customers within the United States and portions of Canada and provide transportation brokerage and management services. The transportation operations have the equipment and the ability to transport virtually all types of waste and most commodity products.
DartAmericA, Inc. through its subsidiaries (collectively, Dart), headquartered in Warren, Ohio, is engaged in the transportation of waste and is a common carrier of both general and bulk commodities. Dart, which commenced operations in 1965, also engages in the brokerage and management of transportation.
Dart is a fully licensed hazardous and nonhazardous waste carrier. Approximately 53%, 66% and 70% of the revenue generated by Dart in 2003, 2002 and 2001, respectively, related to the transportation of waste. Hazardous waste represented 36%, 29% and 36% of Darts waste transportation revenues in 2003, 2002 and 2001, respectively.
Dart, which is licensed as a common carrier in 49 states and several provinces of Canada, derived 47%, 34% and 30% of its revenues in 2003, 2002 and 2001, respectively, from the transportation of general and bulk commodities, such as coal, salt, sand, ash, steel products and heavy machinery. A common carrier engaged in the transportation of goods owned by others is subject to federal and state regulations which establish operating and safety standards. Carriers are liable for loss of or damage to goods entrusted to their care. Public liability and property damage insurance is compulsory.
A substantial number of the truck power units and trailers used by Dart are owned and operated by independent truckers who receive a negotiated percentage of the gross revenue from carriage. Many of the approximately 70 to 90 independent truckers who regularly provide services for Dart have been doing so for a number of years. These independent truckers pay for fuel and all other expenses with the exception of automotive liability insurance, hazardous waste permits, special equipment required to carry hazardous waste and other safety equipment, all of which are provided by Dart. Equipment used by the independent truckers is inspected at least annually and is subject to random inspections by Dart. See Item 2Properties.
Waste is transported by roll-off trailers, specialized tankers, van trailers, dump trailers, walking floor trailers or flatbed trailers to treatment and disposal facilities. In connection with its transportation of municipal solid waste, Dart also provides loading services at several municipal solid waste transfer stations. See Item 2Properties.
Dart also provides transportation brokerage and management services to a variety of customers. Dart maintains lists of approved transporters, which it periodically reviews and updates, and Dart will only engage transporters that it believes are reliable and efficient in providing the services required in accordance with Darts standards.
During 2003, three customers of the transportation services segment accounted for approximately 24%, 14%, and 12%, respectively, of the segments net operating revenues to external customers. Waste Management, Inc. and its affiliates are the transportation services segments largest customer and accounted for approximately 13% of Avalons consolidated net operating revenues.
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Waste Management Services
Avalons waste management subsidiaries provide hazardous and nonhazardous waste brokerage and management services and captive landfill management services.
American Waste Management Services, Inc. (AWMS) assists customers with managing and disposing of wastes at approved treatment and disposal sites based upon a customers needs.
Because waste generators remain liable for their waste both before and after disposal, they require assurance that their waste will be safely and properly transported, treated and disposed of. To give customers this confidence, as well as to limit its own potential liability, AWMS has instituted procedures designed to minimize the risks of improper handling or disposal of waste.
Prior to AWMS providing waste brokerage or management services, a potential customer must complete a detailed questionnaire setting forth the amount, chemical composition and any special characteristics for each separate waste to be handled. Representative samples of the waste are analyzed by a state or federally certified laboratory. In addition, an AWMS representative generally inspects the process generating the waste, the location where the waste may be temporarily stored or the site of the remediation project producing the waste, and interviews representatives of the generator familiar with the waste. This inspection, along with the laboratory results, allows AWMS to determine whether the waste is within acceptable parameters for disposal and, if so, what special handling and treatment procedures must be instituted. If the waste is continuously generated, new representative samples are tested on a periodic basis.
These procedures are important to both AWMS and its customers because the key to proper handling of waste is accurate identification. Hazardous waste which is not identified as such and thus improperly disposed of can result in substantial liability to the waste generator, the disposal facility, AWMS and potentially to all other waste generators that have used the disposal site. Conversely, waste that could safely and legally be disposed of in a solid waste landfill but is instead sent to a hazardous waste facility for treatment and disposal will result in substantial and unnecessary expense to the generator.
American Landfill Management, Inc. (ALMI) is a landfill management company that provides technical and operational services to customers owning captive disposal facilities. A captive disposal facility only disposes of waste generated by the owner of such facility. ALMI provides turnkey services, including daily operations, facilities management and management reporting for its customers. Currently, ALMI manages one captive disposal facility located in Ohio.
Golf and Related Operations
Avalon Lakes Golf, Inc. (ALGI) owns and operates a Pete Dye designed championship golf course located in Warren, Ohio. ALGI generates its revenue from membership dues, greens fees, cart rentals, merchandise sales, and food and beverage sales. During 2002, Avalon remodeled its corporate headquarters building to include a clubhouse for the Avalon Lakes Golf Course. Avalon Travel, Inc. a subsidiary of ALGI owns and operates a travel agency which generates its revenue from booking travel reservations. As described below, TBG, Inc. a subsidiary of ALGI operates the golf course and related facilities of Squaw Creek Country Club located in Vienna, Ohio. TBG, Inc. generates its revenue in the same manner as ALGI.
TBG, Inc. has entered into a long-term agreement with Squaw Creek Country Club to lease and operate its golf course and related facilities. The lease which commenced on November 1, 2003 has an initial term of ten (10) years with four (4) consecutive ten (10) year renewal term options unilaterally exercisable by TBG, Inc. In addition to a second championship golf course, the Squaw Creek facilities include a swimming pool, tennis courts and a clubhouse that provides dining and banquet facilities.
Although the golf course is available to the general public, as a result of the transaction with Squaw Creek, Avalon has formed the Avalon Golf and Country Club. Members of the Avalon Golf and Country Club are entitled to privileges at both facilities. Membership requires payment of a one-time initiation fee as well as annual dues. Members receive several benefits including reduced greens fees and preferential tee times.
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The golf courses are significantly dependent upon weather conditions during the golf season as a result of being located in northeast Ohio. See Item 2 Properties.
Governmental Regulations
As with other transportation companies, Avalons transportation operations must comply with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations as promulgated by the United States Department of Transportation. In order to transport hazardous waste and, in certain cases, nonhazardous solid waste, Avalons transportation operations must also comply with additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and possess and maintain one or more state operating permits. These operating permits must be renewed annually and are subject to modification and revocation by the issuing agency. In addition, Avalons waste transportation operations are subject to evolving and expanding operational and safety requirements.
In the ordinary course of their operations, Avalons subsidiaries may from time to time receive citations, notices or comments from regulatory authorities that such operations are not in compliance with applicable environmental regulations. These agencies may seek to impose fines, or revoke or deny renewal of operating permits or licenses, or require the remediation of environmental problems resulting from Avalons transportation or waste brokerage operations. Upon receipt of such citations, notices or comments, the appropriate subsidiary works with the authorities in an attempt to resolve the issues raised. Failure to correct the problems to the satisfaction of the authorities could lead to fines and/or a curtailment or cessation of certain operations.
The federal government and numerous state and local governmental bodies are increasingly considering, proposing or enacting legislation or regulations to either restrict or impede the disposal and/or transportation of waste. A significant portion of Avalons disposal brokerage and transportation revenues is derived from the disposal or transportation of out-of-state waste. Any law or regulation restricting or impeding the transportation of waste or the acceptance of out-of-state waste for disposal could have a significant negative effect on Avalon. Avalons transportation operations may also be affected by the trend toward laws requiring the development of waste reduction and recycling or other programs.
Sales and Marketing
Avalons sales and marketing approach is decentralized, with each operation being responsible for its own sales and marketing efforts. Each operation employs its own sales force which concentrates on expanding its business.
Competition
The markets for the transportation of hazardous and nonhazardous waste and for the transportation of general and bulk commodities are each highly competitive. There are numerous participants, and no one transporter has a dominant market share. Avalon competes primarily with other short and long-haul carriers for both truckload and less than truckload shipments. Competition for the transportation of waste is based on the ability of the carrier to transport the waste at a competitive price and in accordance with applicable regulations. Competition for the transportation of commodities is based primarily on price and service. Some of Avalons competitors periodically reduce their freight rates to gain or retain business, especially during difficult economic times, which may limit Avalons ability to maintain its freight rates.
The hazardous and nonhazardous waste disposal brokerage and management business is highly competitive and fragmented. Avalons waste disposal brokerage and management business competes with other brokerage companies as well as with companies which own treatment and disposal facilities. In addition to price, knowledge and service are the key factors when competing for waste disposal brokerage and management business. Avalons waste disposal brokerage and management operations obtain and retain customers by providing service and identifying cost-efficient disposal options unique to a customers needs. Consolidation within the solid waste industry has reduced the number of disposal
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options available to waste generators and has caused disposal pricing to increase. Avalon does not believe that industry pricing changes alone will have a material effect upon its waste disposal brokerage and management operations. However, consolidation has had the effect of reducing the number of competitors offering disposal alternatives.
Avalons two golf courses are located in Warren, Ohio and Vienna, Ohio and are significantly dependent on weather conditions during the golf season. The golf courses compete with many public courses and country clubs in the area.
Insurance
Avalon carries $15,000,000 of liability insurance coverages. This insurance includes coverage for comprehensive general liability, automobile liability (including a pollution liability endorsement which covers certain liabilities from spills), comprehensive property damage and other customary coverages. Dart self-insures for collision risks and the golf courses and related operations maintain separate insurance. No assurance can be given that such insurance will be available in the future or, if available, that the premiums for such insurance will be reasonable.
If Avalon were to incur a substantial liability for damages not covered by insurance or in excess of its policy limits or at a time when Avalon no longer is able to obtain appropriate liability insurance, its financial condition could be materially adversely affected.
From time to time, Avalon entered into contracts which required surety bonds or other financial instruments to assure performance under the terms thereof. Although Avalon has obtained such bonds or other financial instruments in the past, substantial changes in the bond market have limited Avalons ability to obtain surety bonds in the future. No assurance can be given that such bonds will be available in the future or, if available, that the premiums and/or collateral requirements for such bonds will be reasonable. The inability of Avalon to obtain surety bonds may adversely impact its future financial performance.
Employees
As of December 31, 2003, Avalon had 321 employees, 177 of whom were employed in the transportation segment, 26 of whom were employed by the waste management services segment, 31 of whom were employed by the golf course and related operations and 28 of whom were employed in financial and administrative activities. A total of 59 were employed in the technical environmental services operations which were discontinued in January 2004. Avalon believes that it has a good relationship with its employees.
Other Business Factors
None of Avalons business segments is materially dependent on patents, trademarks, licenses, franchises or concessions, other than permits, licenses and approvals issued by regulatory agencies. Avalon does not sponsor significant research and development activities.
Dart provides transportation services from locations in Canfield, Ohio (where Dart owns an 18,800 square foot facility); Oxford, Massachusetts (where Dart leases a 5,760 square foot terminal); Kenova, West Virginia (where Dart leases a 1,500 square foot terminal); Chicago, Illinois (where Dart leases a 500 square foot terminal and leases a 5,100 square foot maintenance facility); and Londonderry, New Hampshire (where Dart leases a 400 square foot office). At December 31, 2003, the transportation operations owned a fleet of 20 power units (in addition to 114 power units which are leased), 305 trailers (in addition to 30 trailers which are leased and 130 which are rented), and 514 roll-off and other containers. In addition, 70 to 90 power units and 140 to 160 trailers owned by independent owner/operators are available for use in Darts operations.
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Avalon owns a 48,000 square foot office building in Export, Pennsylvania. Avalon currently leases approximately 12,000 square feet of this building to a third party. The building is currently held for sale. In addition, 3,600 square feet of warehouse space in Murrysville, Pennsylvania is leased for file storage.
The captive landfill management operations use approximately six pieces of equipment (such as a bulldozer, excavator and backhoe) all of which are owned or leased by ALMI.
ALGI owns an 18-hole golf course and practice facility on approximately 200 acres, a maintenance and storage building of approximately 12,000 square feet, a restaurant building of approximately 10,400 square feet, and a banquet facility of approximately 7,000 square feet. ALGI currently leases the restaurant building and banquet facility to a third party operator. Avalon constructed a clubhouse of approximately 10,000 square feet as part of the remodeling of Avalons corporate headquarters building. All the facilities are located in Warren, Ohio.
TBG, Inc. leases and operates the Squaw Creek Country Club facility, which includes an 18-hole golf course and practice facility on approximately 224 acres, a swimming pool, four tennis courts and a clubhouse that provides dining and banquet facilities. The clubhouse is currently being renovated and expanded.
Avalon owns a 37,000 square foot headquarters building located on approximately 5.6 acres of property in Warren, Ohio adjacent to the golf course. The corporate and administrative offices of Dart, ALMI, ALGI, and AWMS are each located at the headquarters building of Avalon in Warren, Ohio. Avalons corporate headquarters building has been remodeled to include a clubhouse for the Avalon Lakes Golf Club.
Generally, Avalons fixed assets are in good condition and are satisfactory for the purposes for which they are intended.
In the ordinary course of conducting its business, Avalon becomes involved in lawsuits, administrative proceedings and governmental investigations, including those related to environmental matters. Some of these proceedings may result in fines, penalties or judgments being assessed against Avalon which, from time to time, may have an impact on its business and financial condition. Although the outcome of such lawsuits or other proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty, Avalon does not believe that any uninsured ultimate liabilities, fines or penalties resulting from such pending proceedings, individually or in the aggregate, would have a material adverse effect on it. See Item 1. BusinessInsurance.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
No matters were submitted to a vote of Avalons security holders during the fourth quarter of 2003.
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Information with respect to the following items can be found on the indicated pages of Exhibit 13.1, the 2003 Annual Report to Shareholders if not otherwise included herein.
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANTS COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
Page(s) | ||
Common stock information |
28 | |
Dividend policy |
28 |
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The information required by this item is included in the Digest of Financial Data for the years 1999 through 2003 under the captions Net operating revenues, Income (loss) from continuing operations, Income (loss) from discontinued operations, Net income (loss), Net income (loss) per share from continuing operations, Net income (loss) per share from discontinued operations, Net income (loss) per share and pro forma net loss per share, Total assets and Long-term debt |
25 |
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations |
2-10 |
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
The information set forth under the subcaption Market Risk contained in Item 7, Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations is incorporated herein by reference. |
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
Independent auditors report regarding financial statements as of December 31, 2003 and 2002 and for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2003 |
24 | |
Financial Statements: |
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Consolidated Balance Sheets, December 31, 2003 and 2002 |
11 | |
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001 |
12 | |
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001 |
13 | |
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders Equity for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2003 |
14 | |
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001 |
14 | |
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements |
15-23 |
Information regarding financial statement schedules is contained in Item 15(a) of Part IV of this report.
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None
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ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
The information required by Item 10 regarding Directors is contained under the caption Election of Directors in the Registrants definitive Proxy Statement for its 2004 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the Proxy Statement) which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, pursuant to Regulation 14A, not later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year, which information under such caption is incorporated herein by reference. The following information with respect to the Executive Officers of Avalon is included pursuant to Instruction 3 of Item 401(b) of Regulation S-K:
Name |
Age |
Position | ||
Ronald E. Klingle |
56 | Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and a Director | ||
Timothy C. Coxson |
53 | Treasurer, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Executive Officer of DartAmericA, Inc. | ||
Jeffrey M. Grinstein |
43 | General Counsel and Secretary | ||
Frances R. Klingle |
57 | Chief Administrative Officer | ||
Kenneth J. McMahon |
51 | Chief Executive Officer and President of American Waste Management Services, Inc. |
The above-listed individuals have been elected to the offices set opposite their names to hold office at the discretion of the Board of Directors of Avalon or its subsidiaries, as the case may be.
Ronald E. Klingle has been a director and Chairman of the Board of Avalon since June 1998. He was Chief Executive Officer from June 1998 until December 2002 and reassumed the position in March 2004. He had been Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and a director of American Waste Services, Inc. since December 1988. Mr. Klingle has over 30 years of environmental experience and received his Bachelor of Engineering degree in Chemical Engineering from Youngstown State University. Mr. Klingle is the spouse of Frances R. Klingle who is the Chief Administrative Officer of Avalon.
Timothy C. Coxson has been Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer since June 1998. He has been Chief Executive Officer of DartAmericA, Inc. since December 2001. He had been Executive Vice President, Finance, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer and a director of American Waste Services, Inc. since May 1995. He received a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Accounting from The Ohio State University.
Jeffrey M. Grinstein has been General Counsel and Secretary since June 1998. He had been an Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of American Waste Services, Inc. since December 1992. Mr. Grinstein was previously with the Youngstown, Ohio law firm of Nadler, Nadler & Burdman Co. L.P.A. He received his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Emory University and his Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from The Ohio State University.
Frances R. Klingle has been Chief Administrative Officer since June 1998. She was Controller of Avalon from June 1998 to April 2002. She had been Controller of American Waste Services, Inc. since June 1986. Ms. Klingle received a Bachelor of Arts degree in French from Kent State University and has completed postgraduate work in accounting at Youngstown State University. Ms. Klingle is the spouse of Ronald E. Klingle who is Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and a director of Avalon.
Kenneth J. McMahon has been Chief Executive Officer and President of American Waste Management Services, Inc. since June 1998. Mr. McMahon had previously been Executive Vice President, Sales and a director of American Waste Services, Inc. since September 1996. Mr. McMahon received a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in finance and his Master of Business Administration degree from Youngstown State University.
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CODE OF ETHICS
Avalon has adopted a Code of Ethics in the form of Standards of Business Ethics and Conduct. Such code applies to all employees of Avalon including its principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer, controller and persons performing similar functions.
Copies of Avalons Code of Ethics may be obtained without charge by any shareholder. Written requests for copies should be directed to the Secretary of Avalon Holdings Corporation, One American Way, Warren, Ohio 44484.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information required by Item 11 is contained under the captions Meetings and Committees of the Board and Compensation of Directors and Executive Officers in the Proxy Statement. The information under such captions is incorporated herein by reference, except that information contained under subpart captions Board Committee Reports on Executive Compensation and Performance Graph are specifically not incorporated herein.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The information required by Item 12 is contained under the captions Voting Securities and Principal Holders Thereof and Stock Ownership of Management in the Proxy Statement which information under such captions is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
Ted Wesolowski was Chief Executive Officer, President and a director of Avalon in 2003. Previously, Mr. Wesolowski was a shareholder of the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania law firm of Babst, Calland, Clements & Zomnir, P.C. which rendered legal services to Avalon during the last fiscal year. Mr. Wesolowski returned to his position with the law firm after resigning as Chief Executive Officer and President of Avalon on March 15, 2004.
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ITEM 14. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Avalons management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-14. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures are effective in ensuring that all material information required to be filed in this annual report has been made known to them in a timely fashion. There have been no significant changes in internal controls, or in factors that could significantly affect internal controls, subsequent to the date the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer completed their evaluation.
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a) The following documents are filed as part of this report:
1. | Financial Statements and Independent Auditors Report (See Part II, Item 8 of this report regarding incorporation by reference from the 2003 Annual Report to Shareholders) |
2. | Financial Statement Schedules required to be filed by Item 8 and Paragraph (d) of this Item 15. |
The following financial statement schedule, which is applicable for years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001, should be read in conjunction with the previously referenced financial statements.
Independent Auditors Report on Financial Statement Schedule
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
Such independent auditors report and financial statement schedule are at pages 13 and 14 of this report. The other schedules are omitted because of the absence of conditions under which they are required or because the information required is shown in the consolidated financial statements or the notes thereto.
3. | Exhibits |
Registrant will furnish to any shareholder, upon written request, any of the following exhibits upon payment by such shareholder of the Registrants reasonable expenses in furnishing any such exhibit.
Exhibit No. |
||
2.1 |
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of February 6, 1998, entered into by and among USA Waste Services, Inc. (USA), C&S Ohio Corp. and American Waste Services, Inc. (AWS), incorporated herein by reference to Avalon Holdings Corporation Registration Statement on Form 10, Exhibit 2.1 | |
2.2 |
Form of Contribution and Distribution Agreement, dated as of May 7, 1998, by and between AWS and Avalon Holdings Corporation (Avalon), incorporated herein by reference to Avalon Holdings Corporation Registration Statement on Form 10, Exhibit 2.2 | |
3.1 |
Articles of Incorporation of Avalon incorporated herein by reference to Avalon Holdings Corporation Registration Statement on Form 10, Exhibit 3.1 | |
3.2 |
Code of Regulations of Avalon incorporated herein by reference to Avalon Holdings Corporation Registration Statement on Form 10, Exhibit 3.2 | |
4.1 |
Form of certificate evidencing shares of Class A common stock, par value $.01, of Avalon Holdings Corporation incorporated herein by reference to Avalon Holdings Corporation Registration Statement on Form 10, Exhibit 4.1 |
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10.1 |
Form of Tax Allocation Agreement, dated as of May 7, 1998, by and among AWS, Avalon and USA incorporated herein by reference to Avalon Holdings Corporation Registration Statement on Form 10, Exhibit 10.1 | |||
10.2 |
Avalon Holdings Corporation Long-Term Incentive Plan incorporated herein by reference to Avalon Holdings Corporation Registration Statement on Form 10, Exhibit 10.2 | |||
10.3 |
Lease Agreement with Squaw Creek Country Club, as referenced as Exhibit 10.3 to the registrants Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2003. | |||
11.1 |
Omittedinapplicable. See Basic net income (loss) per share on page 17 of the 2003 Annual Report to Shareholders | |||
13.1 |
Avalon Holdings Corporation 2003 Annual Report to Shareholders (except pages and information therein expressly incorporated by reference in this Form 10-K, the Annual Report to Shareholders is provided for the information of the Commission and is not be deemed filed as part of the Form 10-K) | |||
21.1 |
Subsidiaries of Avalon Holdings Corporation | |||
31.1 |
Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 | |||
31.2 |
Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 | |||
32.1 |
Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 | |||
32.2 |
Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 | |||
(b) Reports on Form 8-K | ||||
On January 8, 2004, Avalon disclosed the discontinuance of the engineering and consulting operations | ||||
On January 30, 2004, Avalon disclosed the sale of the AWS Remediation, Inc. fixed assets | ||||
On March 1, 2004, Avalon disclosed the resignation of Ted Wesolowski as President and Chief Executive Officer | ||||
(c) Reference is made to Item 15 (a)(3) above for the index of Exhibits. | ||||
(d) Reference is made to Item 15 (a)(2) above for the index to the financial statements and financial statement schedules. |
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Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) 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, on the 24th day of March, 2004.
AVALON HOLDINGS CORPORATION | ||
(Registrant) | ||
By |
/s/ TIMOTHY C. COXSON | |
Timothy C. Coxson - Treasurer and | ||
Chief Financial Officer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities indicated, on the 24th day of March, 2004.
Signatures |
Title | |
/s/ RONALD E. KLINGLE Ronald E. Klingle |
Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and Director | |
/s/ TED WESOLOWSKI Ted Wesolowski |
Director | |
/s/ SANFORD B. FERGUSON Sanford B. Ferguson |
Director | |
/s/ ROBERT M. ARNONI Robert M. Arnoni |
Director | |
/s/ STEPHEN L. GORDON Stephen L. Gordon |
Director | |
/s/ THOMAS C. KNISS Thomas C. Kniss |
Director |
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Independent Auditors Report
The Shareholders and Board of Directors
of Avalon Holdings Corporation:
Under date of February 27, 2004, we reported on the consolidated balance sheets of Avalon Holdings Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, and the related consolidated statements of operations, shareholders equity, comprehensive income, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2003, as contained in the 2003 Annual Report to Shareholders. These consolidated financial statements and our report thereon are incorporated by reference in the annual report on Form 10-K for the year 2003. In connection with our audits of the aforementioned consolidated financial statements, we also have audited the 2003, 2002 and 2001 information included in the related financial statement schedule as listed in the accompanying index. The 2003, 2002 and 2001 information included in the financial statement schedule is the responsibility of the Companys management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the 2003, 2002 and 2001 information included in the financial statement schedule based on our audits.
In our opinion, the 2003, 2002 and 2001 information included in the financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.
/s/ Grant Thornton LLP
Grant Thornton LLP
Cleveland, Ohio
February 27, 2004
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AVALON HOLDINGS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2003, 2002 AND 2001
(thousands of dollars)
DESCRIPTION |
Balance at Beginning of Year |
Additions |
Deductions (1) |
Balance at End of Year | |||||||||||
Charged to Costs and Expenses |
Charged to Other Accounts |
||||||||||||||
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts: |
|||||||||||||||
Year ended December 31, |
|||||||||||||||
2003 |
$ | 2,924 | $ | 670 | $ | | $ | 836 | $ | 2,758 | |||||
2002 |
$ | 333 | $ | 2,705 | $ | | $ | 114 | $ | 2,924 | |||||
2001 |
$ | 314 | $ | 179 | $ | | $ | 160 | $ | 333 | |||||
(1) | Accounts receivable written-off as uncollectible, net of recoveries. |
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AVALON HOLDINGS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit | ||
13.1 |
2003 Annual Report to Shareholders | |
21.1 |
Subsidiaries of Avalon Holdings Corporation | |
31.1 |
Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 | |
31.2 |
Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 | |
32.1 |
Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 | |
32.2 |
Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 |
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