PARKS AMERICA, INC - Quarter Report: 2019 December (Form 10-Q)

Parks! America, Inc.

(Exact Name of small business issuer as specified in its charter)

Issuer's telephone Number: (706) 663-8744

Indicate by check mark whether the issuer (1) filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act 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 has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Date File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes [X] No [   ]

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes [   ] No [X]

As of February 3, 2020, the issuer had 75,021,537 outstanding shares of Common Stock. 

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Table of Contents

PARKS! AMERICA, INC and SUBSIDIARIES

INDEX

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PARKS! AMERICA, INC. and SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)

As of December 29, 2019 and September 29, 2019

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

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PARKS! AMERICA, INC. and SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)

For the Three Months Ended December 29, 2019 and December 30, 2018

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

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PARKS! AMERICA, INC. and SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY (UNAUDITED)

For the Three Months Ended December 29, 2019 and December 30, 2018

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

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PARKS! AMERICA, INC. and SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)

For the Three Months Ended December 29, 2019 and December 30, 2018

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

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PARKS! AMERICA, INC. and SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

December 29, 2019

NOTE 1. ORGANIZATION

Parks! America, Inc. (“Parks!” or the “Company”) was originally incorporated on July 30, 1954 as Painted Desert Uranium & Oil Co., Inc. in Washington State. On October 1, 2002, Painted Desert Uranium & Oil Co., Inc. changed its name to Royal Pacific Resources, Inc. and its corporate domicile to the State of Nevada.

On December 19, 2003, Royal Pacific Resources, Inc. acquired the assets of Great Western Parks LLC pursuant to a Share Exchange Agreement that resulted in the Company assuming control and changing the corporate name to Great American Family Parks, Inc. The acquisition was accounted for as a reverse acquisition in which Great Western Parks was considered to be the acquirer of Royal Pacific Resources for reporting purposes. On June 11, 2008, the Company changed its name from Great American Family Parks, Inc. to Parks! America, Inc.

The Company owns and operates through wholly owned subsidiaries two regional theme parks and is in the business of acquiring, developing and operating local and regional theme parks and attractions in the United States. The Company’s wholly owned subsidiaries are Wild Animal Safari, Inc. a Georgia corporation (“Wild Animal – Georgia”) and Wild Animal, Inc., a Missouri corporation (“Wild Animal – Missouri”). Wild Animal – Georgia owns and operates the Wild Animal Safari theme park in Pine Mountain, Georgia (the “Georgia Park”). Wild Animal – Missouri owns and operates the Wild Animal Safari theme park located in Strafford, Missouri (the “Missouri Park”). The Company acquired the Georgia Park on June 13, 2005, and the Missouri Park on March 5, 2008.

The Parks are open year round but experience increased seasonal attendance, typically beginning in the latter half of March through early September. On a combined basis, net sales for the third and fourth quarter of the last two fiscal years represented approximately 67% to 68% of annual net sales.

NOTE 2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of Presentation: The Company’s consolidated financial statements are presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). The Company believes that the disclosures made are adequate to make the information presented not misleading. The information reflects all adjustments that, in the opinion of management, are necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position and results of operations for the periods set forth herein.

Principles of Consolidation: The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries (Wild Animal – Georgia and Wild Animal – Missouri). All material inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Accounting Method: The Company recognizes income and expenses based on the accrual method of accounting.

Estimates and Assumptions: Management uses estimates and assumptions in preparing financial statements in accordance with GAAP. Those estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of the assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, and the reported revenues and expenses. Actual results could vary from the estimates that were assumed in preparing these financial statements.

Fiscal Year End: The Company’s fiscal year-end is the Sunday closest to September 30, and its quarterly close dates are also determined by the Sunday closest to the end of each quarterly reporting period. For the 2020 fiscal year, September 27 will be the closest Sunday, and for the 2019 fiscal year, September 29 was the closest Sunday. Both fiscal years will be comprised of 52-weeks. This fiscal calendar aligns the Company’s fiscal periods more closely with the seasonality of its business. The high season typically ends after the Labor Day holiday weekend. The period from October through early March is geared towards maintenance and preparation for the next busy season, which typically begins at Spring Break and runs through Labor Day.

Reclassifications: Certain accounts and financial statement captions in the prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the current period financial statements.

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PARKS! AMERICA, INC. and SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

December 29, 2019

NOTE 2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

Financial and Concentrations Risk: The Company does not have any concentration or related financial credit risks. The Company maintains its cash in bank deposit accounts, which at times may exceed federally insured limits.

Trade Accounts Receivable: The theme parks are a payment upfront business; therefore, the Company typically carries little or no accounts receivable. The Company had no accounts receivable as of December 29, 2019 and September 29, 2019, respectively.

Inventory: Inventory consists of gift shop items, animal food, and concession and park supplies, and is stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined on the first-in, first-out method. Inventories are reviewed and reconciled annually, because inventory levels turn over rapidly.

Property and Equipment: Property and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation is computed on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which range from three to thirty-nine years. A summary is included below.

Intangible assets: Intangible assets consist of franchising fees, which are reported at cost and are being amortized over a period of 60 months.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets: The Company reviews its major assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. If an asset is considered impaired, then impairment will be recognized in an amount determined by the excess of the carrying amount of the asset over its fair value.

Other Current Liabilities: The following is a breakdown of other current liabilities:

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PARKS! AMERICA, INC. and SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

December 29, 2019

NOTE 2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)

Financial Instruments: The carrying amounts of financial instruments are considered by management to be their estimated fair values due to their short-term maturities. Securities that are publicly traded are valued at their fair market value as of the balance sheet date presented.

Revenue Recognition: The Company’s major source of income is from theme park admissions. Theme park revenues from admission fees are generally recognized upon receipt of payment at the time of the customers’ visit to the parks. Theme park revenues from advance online ticket purchases are deferred until the customers’ visit to the parks. Short-term seasonal passes are sold primarily during the spring and summer seasons, are negligible to our results of operations and are not material. The Company periodically sells surplus animals created from the natural breeding process that occurs within the parks. All animal sales are reported as a separate revenue line item.

Advertising and Market Development: The Company expenses advertising and marketing costs as incurred.

Stock Based Compensation: The Company recognizes stock based compensation costs on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period associated with the grant. No activity has occurred in relation to stock options during any period presented. The Company has historically awarded shares to its Board of Directors for service on the Board. Beginning in fiscal 2018, the Company has allowed its Directors to elect to receive their annual compensation award in all shares, all cash or a combination thereof. Company shares issued to its Directors are “restricted” and are not to be re-sold unless an exemption is available, such as the exemption afforded by Rule 144 promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). The Company recognizes the expense based on the fair market value at time of the grant. The Company typically awards its annual Director compensation around the end of each calendar year.

Income Taxes: The Company utilizes the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between the financial reporting basis and the tax basis of the assets and liabilities, and are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws. Management periodically reviews the Company’s deferred tax assets to determine whether their value can be realized based on available evidence. A valuation allowance is established when management believes it is more likely than not, that such tax benefits will not be realized. Changes in valuation allowances from period to period are included in the Company’s income tax provision in the period of change.

On December 22, 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “Tax Act”) was enacted into federal law, which includes significant changes to the U.S. corporate federal tax code. Among other changes, the Tax Act lowered the U.S. statutory corporate federal income tax rate from 35.0% to 21.0%. See “NOTE 7. INCOME TAXES” for additional information.

Basic and Diluted Net Income (Loss) Per Share: Basic net income (loss) per share amounts are computed based on the weighted average number of shares actually outstanding. Diluted net income (loss) per share amounts are computed using the weighted average number of common shares and common equivalent shares outstanding as if shares had been issued on the exercise any common share rights unless the exercise becomes anti-dilutive.

Basic and diluted net income (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) available to common stockholders by the applicable weighted average number of common shares outstanding in each period.

Dividend Policy: The Company has not yet adopted a policy regarding payment of dividends.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements: The Company does not expect recently issued accounting standards or interpretations to have a material impact on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, cash flows or financial statement disclosures.

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PARKS! AMERICA, INC. and SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

December 29, 2019

NOTE 3. LONG-TERM DEBT

On July 11, 2018, the Company, through its wholly owned subsidiary Wild Animal – Georgia, completed a refinancing transaction (the “2018 Refinancing”) with Synovus Bank (“Synovus”). The 2018 Refinancing included a term loan in the original principal amount of $1,600,000 (the “2018 Term Loan”). The 2018 Term Loan bears interest at a rate of 5.0% per annum and is payable in monthly payments of approximately $22,672, based on a seven year amortization period. The 2018 Term Loan has a maturity date of June 11, 2021, with an option to renew at 5.0% per annum for an additional 49 month term. The 2018 Term Loan is secured by a security deed on the assets of Wild Animal – Georgia. The Company paid a total of approximately $15,680 in fees and expenses in connection with the 2018 Refinancing.

Interest expense of $17,721 and $19,598 for the three months ended December 29, 2019 and December 30, 2018, respectively, includes $560 of amortization of debt closing costs in each period.

As of December 29, 2019, the scheduled future principal maturities by fiscal year are as follows:

NOTE 4. LINE OF CREDIT

On July 11, 2018, the Company, through its wholly owned subsidiary Wild Animal – Georgia, completed the 2018 Refinancing with Synovus. The 2018 Refinancing includes a line of credit of up to $350,000 (the “2018 LOC”). The 2018 LOC bears interest at a rate of 4.75% and interest only payments are due monthly. The 2018 LOC is secured by a security deed on the assets of Wild Animal – Georgia. The 2018 LOC matures on July 11, 2021, with an option to renew for an additional three-year term. If necessary, the Company intends to utilize the 2018 LOC to fund seasonal working capital needs.

As of December 29, 2019 and September 29, 2019, respectively, there was no outstanding balance against the Company’s LOC. When applicable, any advance on a Company LOC is recorded as a current liability.

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PARKS! AMERICA, INC. and SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

December 29, 2019

NOTE 5. STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Shares of common stock issued for service to the Company are valued based on market price on the date of issuance.

On December 5, 2019, the Company declared its annual compensation award to four Directors for their service on the Board of Directors. Each Director was awarded $8,500, to be paid all in shares, all in cash or a combination thereof, at each Director’s election. All four Directors elected to receive shares of the Company’s common stock, totaling 50,000 each, based the closing stock price of $0.17 per share on December 5, 2019. The total award cost of $34,000 was reported as an expense in the first quarter of the 2020 fiscal year, and the Company distributed each award on January 8, 2020.

On January 14, 2019, the Company declared its annual award to five Directors for their service on the Board of Directors. Each Director was awarded 25,000 shares at $0.185 per share or the cash equivalent of $4,625. Four Directors elected to receive shares of the Company’s common stock, while the estate of one Director elected to receive its award in cash. The total award cost of $23,125 was reported as an expense in the second quarter of the 2019 fiscal year, and the Company distributed each award on January 16, 2019.

Officers, Directors and their controlled entities own approximately 50.8% of the outstanding common stock of the Company as of December 29, 2019.

NOTE 6. SIGNIFICANT TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PARTIES

Employment Agreements:

Effective June 1, 2009, the Company entered into an employment agreement with Dale Van Voorhis (the “2009 Van Voorhis Employment Agreement”) to serve as the Company’s Chief Operating Officer. Effective January 27, 2011, Mr. Van Voorhis was appointed as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer. Effective June 1, 2018, the Company and Mr. Van Voorhis entered into the “2018 Van Voorhis Employment Agreement”. Pursuant to the 2018 Van Voorhis Employment Agreement, Mr. Van Voorhis receives an initial base annual compensation in the amount of $90,000 per year, subject to annual review by the Board of Directors. The 2018 Van Voorhis Employment Agreement has a term of two years and entitles Mr. Van Voorhis to participate in any deferred compensation plan the Company may adopt during the term of his employment with the Company.

Effective January 1, 2014, the Company entered into an employment agreement with Todd R. White (the “White Employment Agreement”) to serve as the Company’s Chief Financial Officer. Effective January 1, 2019, the Company and Mr. White entered into the “2019 White Employment Agreement”. The 2019 White Employment Agreement has a term of three years, with minimum annual compensation of $70,000 in year one, $75,000 in year two and $80,000 in year three, and entitles Mr. White to participate in any deferred compensation plan the Company may adopt during the term of his employment with the Company.

Effective May 1, 2018, the Company entered into an employment agreement with Michael D. Newman (the “Newman Employment Agreement”) to serve as the Company’s Vice President of Safari Operations. Mr. Newman has been the general manager of Wild Animal – Georgia since February 2011. Pursuant to the Newman Employment Agreement, Mr. Newman received an initial base annual compensation of $95,000 per year, subject to annual review by the Board of Directors. Mr. Newman also received a $5,000 signing bonus. Effective May 1, 2019, Mr. Newman’s annual compensation was set at $98,000. The Newman Employment Agreement has a term of five years and entitles Mr. Newman to participate in any deferred compensation plan the Company may adopt during the term of his employment with the Company.

Each of the foregoing employment agreements contains provisions for severance compensation in the event an agreement is (i) terminated early by the Company without cause ($280,000 in aggregate) or (ii) in the event of a change in control of the Company ($365,000 in aggregate).

On April 1, 2008, the Company entered into an employment agreement with James Meikle (the “2008 Meikle Employment Agreement”) pursuant to which Mr. Meikle was hired to serve as the President and Chief Executive Officer of each of the Company’s wholly owned subsidiaries. Effective January 27, 2011, Mr. Meikle was appointed as the Company’s Chief Operating Officer. Effective July 1, 2017, the Company and Mr. Meikle entered into the “2017 Meikle Employment Agreement”. The 2017 Meikle Employment Agreement had a term of two years, with an initial base annual compensation in the amount of $135,000 per year. On November 28, 2018, Mr. Meikle passed away. Pursuant to the death benefit terms of the 2017 Meikle Employment Agreement, during the three month period ended December 30, 2018, the Company recorded a provision of approximately $88,000, which was distributed to his estate on January 15, 2020.

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PARKS! AMERICA, INC. and SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

December 29, 2019

NOTE 7. INCOME TAXES

For the three month period ended December 29, 2019, the Company reported a pre-tax loss of $109,851. For the fiscal year ending September 27, 2020, the Company expects to generate pre-tax income and to record a tax provision at a blended effective federal and state income tax rate of approximately 26.0%. The Company recorded a net income tax benefit of $20,700 for the three month period ended December 29, 2019, comprised of a federal benefit of $23,900 and a State of Georgia expense of $3,200. The Company’s regular net income tax provision for the three month period ended December 30, 2018 was a tax expense of $4,500, comprised of a federal benefit of $4,100 and a State of Georgia expense of $8,600.

NOTE 8. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

On May 21, 2019, the Company’s Missouri Park was struck by a tornado and sustained property damage, primarily to the “walk about”, the more traditional zoo-like section of the park, as well as to several auxiliary buildings. The park was closed at the time of this event and no employees were injured. While a few animals sustained non-life threatening injuries, no animals were killed or escaped.

As a result of the tornado damage, through September 29, 2019, the Company had written-off $56,339 related to the net book value of property destroyed and damaged, and incurred $24,105 of cleanup and repair expenses. Through September 29, 2019, the Company had capitalized $66,376 of expenditures related to improvements associated with the tornado damage. The Company capitalized an additional $82,585 of improvements associated with the tornado damage during the three months ended December 29, 2019.

The Company has a pending property insurance claim which it believes will cover a portion of these costs and expenses. However, since a proposed settlement from its insurance carrier remains pending, the Company has not recorded any insurance proceeds to offset the costs and expenditures incurred through December 29, 2019.

On August 14, 2019, Marlton Wayne LP (“Marlton”) filed a Complaint in the Eighth Judicial District Court, Clark County, Nevada (case no. A-19-800214-8), seeking ten categories of documents from the Company. This Complaint followed a letter from Marlton sent on July 22, 2019, demanding an inspection of certain books and records of the. The Company is currently defending against the action filed in the Eighth Judicial District Court, but in accordance with the Court’s order has provided certain documents to Marlton. Discovery in this Complaint is ongoing.

Except as described above, the Company is not a party to any pending legal proceeding, nor is its property the subject of a pending legal proceeding, that is not in the ordinary course of business or otherwise material to the financial condition of its business. None of the Company’s directors, officers or affiliates is involved in a proceeding adverse to its business or has a material interest adverse to its business.

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PARKS! AMERICA, INC. and SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

December 29, 2019

NOTE 9. BUSINESS SEGMENTS

The Company manages its operations on an individual location basis. Discrete financial information is maintained for each Park and provided to management for review and as a basis for decision-making. The primary performance measures used to allocate resources are Park earnings before interest and tax expense, and free cash flow.

The following tables present financial information regarding each of the Company’s reportable segments:

NOTE 10. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

Effective January 15, 2020, the Company entered into a non-binding letter of intent to acquire substantially all the assets of Aggieland Safari, Inc. (“Aggieland”), primarily the Aggieland Safari Adventure Zoo and Safari Park (“Aggieland Safari”). Aggieland Safari is situated on 250 acres of a 450-acre property, located in Bryan, Texas, approximately 25 miles northeast of College Station and 120 miles northwest of downtown Houston. The agreed upon purchase price is $7.5 million. The transaction is subject to due diligence by the Company and certain contingencies outlined in the letter, including financing to be obtained by the Company. The Company anticipates obtaining debt financing of approximately $5.0 to $5.5 million to fund the acquisition. Aggieland has granted the Company a 90-day exclusivity period to complete its due diligence and execute a definitive agreement.

In accordance with ASC 855-10, except as noted above and in “NOTE 6. SIGNIFICANT TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PARTIES”, the Company has analyzed its operations subsequent to December 29, 2019 to the date these financial statements were issued and has determined that it does not have any material subsequent events to disclose in these unaudited consolidated financial statements.

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Management’s discussion and analysis of results of operations and financial condition (“MD&A”) is a supplement to the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements and provides additional information on the Company’s businesses, current developments, financial condition, cash flows and results of operations. The following discussion should be read in conjunction with our unaudited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (this “Quarterly Report”) and with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2019.

Forward-Looking Statements

Except for the historical information contained herein, this Quarterly Report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, among other things, statements concerning: our business strategy; liquidity and capital expenditures; future sources of revenues and anticipated costs and expenses; and trends in industry activity generally. Such forward-looking statements include, among others, those statements including the words such as "may," "will," "should," "expect," "plan," "could," "anticipate," "intend," "believe," "estimate," "predict," "potential," "goal," or "continue" or similar language or by discussions of our outlook, plans, goals, strategy or intentions.

Our actual results may differ significantly from those projected in the forward-looking statements. These statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, including, but not limited to, the risks outlined under "RISK FACTORS" in this Quarterly Report, that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. For example, assumptions that could cause actual results to vary materially from future results include, but are not limited to: competition from other parks, weather conditions during our primary tourist season, the price of animal feed and the price of gasoline. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements.

The forward-looking statements we make in this Quarterly Report are based on management’s current views and assumptions regarding future events and speak only as of the date of this report. We assume no obligation to update any of these forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting these forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable law, including the securities laws of the United States and the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Overview

Through our wholly owned subsidiaries, we own and operate two regional theme parks and are in the business of acquiring, developing and operating local and regional theme parks and attractions in the United States. Our wholly owned subsidiaries are Wild Animal Safari, Inc., a Georgia corporation (“Wild Animal – Georgia”) and Wild Animal, Inc., a Missouri corporation (“Wild Animal – Missouri”). Wild Animal – Georgia owns and operates the Wild Animal Safari theme park in Pine Mountain, Georgia (the “Georgia Park”). Wild Animal – Missouri owns and operates the Wild Animal Safari theme park located in Strafford, Missouri (the “Missouri Park”).

Our Parks are open year round but experience increased seasonal attendance, typically beginning in the latter half of March through early September. On a combined basis, net sales for the third and fourth quarter of our last two fiscal years represented approximately 67% to 68% of annual net sales.

Through our fiscal year ended September 29, 2019, our annual net sales, adjusted income before income taxes and net cash provided by operating activities have improved significantly over the past five fiscal years. These improvements are primarily attributable to a combination of increased attendance revenues and strong operating cost controls. Our Georgia Park in particular has benefitted from several positive factors including strong and stable management, the addition of online ticket sales in June 2015, growth and positive economic conditions in the greater Atlanta area, as well as positive guest perceptions of this Park. We are committed to leveraging the strong operating model we have established at our Georgia Park, with a focus on increasing attendance, as well as increasing the average revenue generated per guest visit via concession and gift shop revenues.

Among our highest priorities is the improvement of the operating performance and profit at our Missouri Park. Since we acquired our Missouri Park in March 2008, we have worked to upgrade the Park’s physical facilities and dramatically improve its concessions. We will continue to focus our efforts to promote our Missouri Park and make additional improvements as our capital budget allows. We expect that over the course of several years these efforts will ultimately yield favorable results.

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On July 11, 2018, we completed a refinancing transaction (the “2018 Refinancing”), which included a term loan in the original principal amount of $1,600,000 (the “2018 Term Loan”). The 2018 Term Loan bears interest at a rate of 5.0% per annum and is payable in monthly payments of approximately $22,672, based on a seven year amortization period. Our improved financial position allowed us to lower our term loan interest rate by 200 basis points to 5.0% per annum. Compared to our prior term loan, we project aggregate interest expense savings in the range of $850,000 over the combined seven year term of our 2018 Term Loan arrangement. We used the proceeds of the 2018 Term Loan and available cash of approximately $1,248,165 to retire the then outstanding principal balance of our 2013 Refinancing Loan. See “NOTE 3. LONG TERM DEBT” of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) for additional information.

Our business plan includes expansion via the acquisition of additional local or regional theme parks and attractions, if attractive opportunities arise. However, we have not made an acquisition since 2008 and there can be no assurance that we will be successful in acquiring and operating additional local or regional theme parks and attractions. We believe acquisitions, if any, should not unnecessarily encumber the Company with additional debt that cannot be justified by current operations. We may also pursue contract management opportunities for themed attractions owned by third parties. By using a combination of equity, debt and other financing options, we intend to carefully monitor stockholder value in conjunction with the pursuit of growth. See Subsequent Events for additional information.

Strong growth in our operating cash flow and the lower annual debt service requirements associated with the 2018 Refinancing Loan have provided us with incremental cash flow margin. However, our current size and operating model leave us little room for error. Any future capital raised by us is likely to result in dilution to existing stockholders. It is possible that cash generated by, or available to, us may not be sufficient to fund our capital and liquidity needs for the near-term.

We manage our operations on an individual location basis. Discrete financial information is maintained for each Park and provided to our corporate management for review and as a basis for decision-making. The primary performance measures used to allocate resources are Park earnings before interest and tax expense, and free cash flow. We use this measure of operating profit to gauge segment performance because we believe this measure is the most indicative of performance trends and the overall earnings potential of each reportable segment.

The following table shows our consolidated and segment operating results for the three month periods ended December 29, 2019 and December 30, 2018:

Total Net Sales

Our total net sales for the three month period ended December 29, 2019 were $995,485, a decrease of $21,214 versus the three month period ended December 30, 2018. Our Parks’ combined attendance based net sales decreased by $1,303 or 0.1%, and animal sales decreased by $19,911. Our Georgia Park’s attendance based net sales decreased by $8,259 or 0.9%, to $889,921, and animal sales decreased by $21,042, to $8,515. Our Missouri Park’s attendance based net sales increased by $6,956 or 8.0%, to $93,487, and animal sales increased by $1,131, to $3,562.

For the three month period ended December 29, 2019, attendance at our Georgia Park and our Missouri Park increased by 5.0% and 10.6%, respectively.

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Segment Operating Margin

Our consolidated segment operating margin decreased by $35,033, resulting in segment income from operations of $169,356 for the three month period ended December 29, 2019 compared to $204,389 for the three month period ended December 30, 2018. Our Georgia Park’s segment operating income was $332,773, resulting in a decrease of $27,068, principally as a result of lower animals sales, lower attendance based net sales, and higher cost of sales, partially offset by lower net operating expenses. Our Missouri Park generated a segment operating loss of $163,417, an increase of $7,965, primarily as a result of higher net operating expenses and higher cost of sales, partially offset by higher attendance based net sales and higher animal sales.

Corporate Expenses and Other

Corporate spending increased by $66,694 to $269,448 during the three month period ended December 29, 2019, primarily due to higher professional fees, and higher compensation and insurance expenses.

Other Income (Expense), Net

Other income (expense), net increased by $982, to $7,962, primarily as a result of higher interest income.

Interest Expense

Interest expense for the three month period ended December 29, 2019 was $17,721, a decrease of $1,877 compared with the three month period ended December 30, 2018, as a result of a decrease in our average term loan borrowing level. Our effective term loan interest rate was 5.00% in each three month period, while our average term loan borrowing levels decreased by approximately $196,000.

Income Taxes

For the three month period ended December 29, 2019, we reported a pre-tax loss of $109,851. For the fiscal year ending September 27, 2020 we expect to generate pre-tax income and to record a tax provision at a blended effective federal and state income tax rate of approximately 26.0%. Based on the year-to-date mix of federal and state income, we recorded an income tax benefit of $20,700 for the three month period ended December 29, 2019.

For additional information, see “NOTE 7. INCOME TAXES” of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited).

Financial Condition, Liquidity and Capital Resources

Financial Condition and Liquidity

Our primary sources of liquidity are cash generated by operations and borrowings under our loan agreements. Our slow season starts after Labor Day in September and runs until Spring Break, which typically begins toward the end of March. The first and second quarters of our fiscal year have historically generated negative cash flow, requiring us to borrow on a seasonal basis to fund operations and prepare our Parks for the busy season during the third and fourth quarters of our fiscal year. However, as a result of our improved cash position, during our 2019 fiscal year we did not utilize any seasonal borrowing.

We believe that our performance has improved to the point that annual cash flow from operations will be sufficient to fund operations, make debt-service payments and spend modestly on capital improvements in the near-term. During the next twelve months, our focus will continue on increasing Park attendance revenues. Any slowdown in revenue or unusual capital outlays may require us to seek additional capital.

Our working capital was $3.28 million as of December 29, 2019, compared to $3.45 million as of September 29, 2019. This decrease in working capital primarily reflects capital investment spending during the three month period ended December 29, 2019, as well as scheduled payments on our term debt and net cash used in operating activities.

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Total loan debt, including current maturities, as of December 29, 2019 was $1.31 million compared to $1.36 million as of September 29, 2019. The decrease in total loan debt was a result of scheduled payments against our term loan during the three months ended December 29, 2019. There were no borrowings on our Synovus Bank (“Synovus”) LOC as of December 29, 2019 and September 29, 2019, respectively.

As of December 29, 2019, we had equity of $8.84 million and total loan debt of $1.31 million, resulting in a debt to equity ratio of 0.15 to 1.0 compared to 0.15 to 1.0 as of September 29, 2019.

Operating Activities

Net cash used in operating activities was $47,056 for the three month period ended December 29, 2019, compared to $16,947 for the three month period ended December 30, 2018, an increase of $30,109, primarily as a result of a higher net loss, partially offset by lower net working capital uses.

Investing Activities

During the three month period ended December 29, 2019, we invested $142,315 related to capital improvements at our Parks, compared to $190,062 invested in capital improvements during the three month period ended December 30, 2018.

Financing Activities

Net cash used in financing activities was $50,895 for the three month period ended December 29, 2019, compared to $48,391 for the three month period ended December 30, 2018, with the activity during both periods reflecting scheduled payments on our term loan.

Subsequent Events

Effective January 15, 2020, we entered into a non-binding letter of intent to acquire substantially all the assets of Aggieland Safari, Inc. (“Aggieland”), primarily the Aggieland Safari Adventure Zoo and Safari Park (“Aggieland Safari”). Aggieland Safari is situated on 250 acres of a 450-acre property, located in Bryan, Texas, approximately 25 miles northeast of College Station and 120 miles northwest of downtown Houston. The agreed upon purchase price is $7.5 million. The transaction is subject to due diligence by us and certain contingencies outlined in the letter, including financing to be obtained by us. We anticipate obtaining debt financing of approximately $5.0 to $5.5 million to fund the acquisition. Our Board of Directors has determined that this level of financing is reasonable for us as a whole and is justified by the acquisition opportunity. Aggieland has granted us a 90-day exclusivity period to complete our due diligence and execute a definitive agreement.

Off Balance Sheet Arrangements

We do not have any off balance sheet arrangements that are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity or capital expenditures.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

The preceding discussion and analysis of our consolidated financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our unaudited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report. Our significant accounting policies are set forth in “NOTE 2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES” of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) included in this Quarterly Report, which should be reviewed as they are integral to understanding results of operations and financial position. The Parks! America, Inc. Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2019 includes additional information about us, and our operations, financial condition, critical accounting policies and accounting estimates, and should be read in conjunction with this Quarterly Report.

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK 

Not applicable

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ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES 

Parks! America, Inc. (the “Registrant”) maintains “controls and procedures,” as such term is defined under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (“the Exchange Act”) in Rule 13a-15(e) promulgated thereunder, that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the Registrant’s Exchange Act filings is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including its principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, the Registrant’s management recognized that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives, and in reaching a reasonable level of assurance, the Registrant’s management was necessarily required to apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures.

With the participation of its principal executive officer and principal financial officer of the Registrant, the Registrant’s management has evaluated the effectiveness of the Registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) promulgated under the Exchange Act) as of the end of the fiscal quarter covered by this Quarterly Report. Based upon the evaluation, the Registrant’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that the Registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective at a reasonable assurance level.

In addition, there were no changes in the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) promulgated under the Exchange Act) that occurred during the Registrant’s fiscal quarter ended December 29, 2019 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

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PART II

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS 

On August 14, 2019, Marlton Wayne LP (“Marlton”) filed a Complaint in the Eighth Judicial District Court, Clark County, Nevada (case no. A-19-800214-8), seeking ten categories of documents from us. This Complaint followed a letter from Marlton sent us on July 22, 2019, demanding an inspection of certain books and records of the Company. We are currently defending against the action filed in the Eighth Judicial District Court, but in accordance with the Court’s order we have provided certain documents to Marlton. Discovery in this Complaint is ongoing.

We are not a party to any pending legal proceeding, nor are any of our properties the subject of a pending legal proceeding, that is not in the ordinary course of business or otherwise material to the financial condition of its business. None of our directors, officers or affiliates is involved in a proceeding adverse to our business or has a material interest adverse to our business.

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS 

You should read the MD&A together with our unaudited consolidated financial statements and related notes, each included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report, in conjunction with the Parks! America, Inc. Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2019. Some of the information contained in the MD&A or set forth elsewhere in this Quarterly Report, including information with respect to our plans and strategies for our business, includes forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. You should review the "RISK FACTORS" below for a discussion of important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results described in or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in this report. If any of the following risks actually occur, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected.

Risk Factors Relating to Our Business:

The Theme Park Industry is highly competitive and we may be unable to compete effectively.

The theme park industry is highly competitive, highly fragmented, rapidly evolving, and subject to technological change and intense marketing by providers with similar products. One of our competitors for attracting general recreation dollars, Callaway Gardens, is located within five miles of our Georgia Park. In May 2018, Great Wolf Resorts opened an expansive lodge and indoor waterpark within 10 miles of our Georgia Park. In September 2017, the founder of Bass Pro Shops opened “Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium”, approximately 12 miles from our Missouri Park in Springfield, Missouri. Branson, Missouri is located just 45 minutes from our Missouri Park. Many of our current competitors are significantly larger and have substantially greater market presence as well as greater financial, technical, operational, marketing and other resources and experience than we have. In the event that such a competitor expends significant sales and marketing resources in one or several markets we may not be able to compete successfully in such markets. We believe that competition will continue to increase, potentially placing downward pressure on prices. Such pressure could adversely affect our gross margins if we are not able to reduce costs commensurate with such price reductions. In addition, the pace of technological change makes it impossible for us to predict whether we will face new competitors using different technologies to provide the same or similar products offered or proposed to be offered by us. If our competitors were to provide better and more cost effective products, our business could be materially and adversely affected.

We face strong competition from numerous entertainment alternatives.

In addition to competing with other themed and amusement parks, our venues compete with other types of recreational venues and entertainment alternatives, including but not limited to movies, sports attractions, vacation travel and video games. There can be no assurance that we will successfully differentiate ourselves from these entertainment alternatives or that consumers will consider our entertainment offerings to be more appealing than those of our competitors. The increasing availability and quality of technology-based entertainment has provided families with a wider selection of entertainment alternatives in their homes, including home entertainment units, in-home and online gaming, as well as on-demand streaming video and related access to various forms of entertainment. In addition, traditional theme parks have been able to reduce the cost and increase the variety of their attractions by implementing technologies that cannot be readily incorporated by wild animal attractions such as our Georgia and Missouri Parks.

The suspension or termination of any of our business licenses may have a negative impact on our business.

We maintain a variety of business licenses issued by federal, state and local government agencies that are required to be renewed periodically. We cannot guarantee that we will be successful in renewing all of our licenses on a periodic basis. The suspension, termination or expiration of one or more of these licenses could have a significant adverse affect on our revenues and profits. In addition, any changes to the licensing requirements for any of our licenses could affect our ability to maintain the licenses.

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Our insurance coverage may not be adequate to cover all possible losses that we could suffer, and our insurance costs may increase.

Companies engaged in the theme park business may be sued for substantial damages in the event of an actual or alleged accident. An accident occurring at our Parks or at competing parks may reduce attendance, increase insurance premiums, and negatively impact our operating results. Our properties contain drive-through, safari style animal parks, and there are inherent risks associated with allowing the public to interact with animals. Although we carry liability insurance to cover this risk, there can be no assurance that our coverage will be adequate to cover liabilities, or that we will be able to afford or obtain adequate coverage should a catastrophic incident occur.

We currently have $6.0 million of liability insurance per occurrence, which is capped at $10.0 million in aggregate. We will continue to use reasonable commercial efforts to maintain policies of liability, fire and casualty insurance sufficient to provide reasonable coverage for risks arising from accidents, fire, weather, other acts of God, and other potential casualties. There can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain adequate levels of insurance to protect against suits and judgments in connection with accidents or other disasters that may occur in our Parks.

We may not identify or complete acquisitions in a timely, cost-effective manner, if at all.

Our business plan includes expansion via the acquisition of additional local or regional theme parks and attractions, if attractive opportunities arise. However, we have not completed an acquisition since 2008 and there can be no assurance that we will be successful in acquiring and operating additional local or regional theme parks and attractions. Competition for acquisition opportunities in the theme park industry is intense as there are a limited number of parks within the United States that could reasonably qualify as acquisition targets for us. Our acquisition strategy is dependent upon, among other things, our ability to: identify acquisition opportunities; obtain debt and equity financing; and obtain necessary regulatory approvals. Our ability to pursue our acquisition strategy may be hindered if we are not able to successfully identify acquisition targets or obtain the necessary financing or regulatory approvals, including but not limited to those arising under federal and state antitrust and environmental laws.

Significant amounts of additional financing may be necessary for the implementation of our Business Plan.

The Company may require additional debt and equity financing to pursue its business plan. There can be no assurance that we will be successful in obtaining additional financing. Lack of additional funding could force us to substantially curtail our expansion plans. Furthermore, the issuance by the Company of any additional securities would dilute the ownership of existing stockholders and may affect the price of our common stock.

Our ownership of real property subjects us to environmental regulation, which creates uncertainty regarding future environmental expenditures and liabilities.

We may be required to incur costs to comply with environmental requirements, such as those relating to discharges to air, water and land; the handling and disposal of solid and hazardous waste; and the cleanup of properties affected by hazardous substances. Under these and other environmental requirements we may be required to investigate and clean up hazardous or toxic substances or chemical releases at one of our properties. As an owner or operator, we could also be held responsible to a governmental entity or third party for property damage, personal injury and investigation and cleanup costs incurred by them in connection with any contamination. Environmental laws typically impose cleanup responsibility and liability without regard to whether the owner or operator knew of or caused the presence of the contaminants. The liability under environmental laws has been interpreted to be joint and several unless the harm is divisible and there is a reasonable basis for allocation of the responsibility. The costs of investigation, remediation or removal of those substances may be substantial, and the presence of those substances, or the failure to remediate a property properly, may impair our ability to use our property. We are not currently aware of any material environmental risks regarding our properties. However, we may be required to incur costs to remediate potential environmental hazards or to mitigate environmental risks in the future.

We are dependent upon the services of our Executive Officers, key personnel and consultants.

Our success is heavily dependent on the continued active participation of our executive officers. Loss of the services of one or more of these officers could have a material adverse effect upon our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Further, our success and achievement of our growth plans depend on our ability to recruit, hire, train and retain other highly qualified technical and managerial personnel. Competition for qualified employees among companies in the theme park industry is intense, and the loss of any such persons, or an inability to attract, retain and motivate any additional highly skilled employees required for the expansion of the Company’s activities, could have a materially adverse effect on the Company. The inability of the Company to attract and retain the necessary personnel, and consultants and advisors could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition or results of operations.

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Risk Factors Relating to Our Common Stock:

Our Common Stock is subject to the “penny stock” rules of the SEC and the trading market in our Common Stock is limited, which makes transactions in our Common Stock cumbersome and may reduce the value of an investment in our Common Stock.

Our common stock is considered a "penny stock" and the sale of our stock by you will be subject to the "penny stock rules" of the SEC. The penny stock rules require broker-dealers to take steps before making any penny stock trades in customer accounts. As a result, the market for our shares could be illiquid and there could be delays in the trading of our stock, which would negatively affect your ability to sell your shares and could negatively affect the trading price of your shares.

We do not expect to pay dividends for some time, if at all.

As of the date of this report, no cash dividends have been paid on our common stock. We expect that any income from operations will be devoted to our future operations and growth, as well as to service our debt. We do not expect to pay cash dividends in the near future. Any future determination as to the payment of dividends on our common stock will be at the discretion of our Board of Directors and will depend on our earnings, operating and financial condition, capital requirements and other factors deemed relevant by our Board of Directors. The provisions of credit agreements, which we may enter into from time to time, may also restrict the declaration of dividends on our common stock.

ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS  

None

ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES  

None

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES 

Not applicable

ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION 

None

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS 

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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.

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