10-K 1 d10k.htm FORM 10-K FORM 10-K
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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, DC 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 September 30, 2007

OR

 

¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from              to             

Commission file number 033-80655

 


MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 


 

Connecticut   06-1436334

(State or other jurisdiction

of incorporation or organization)

 

(IRS employer

Identification No.)

One Mohegan Sun Boulevard, Uncasville, CT   06382
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

(860) 862-8000

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of Each Class

 

Name of Each Exchange

On Which Registered

NONE   NONE

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

Title of Class

NONE

 


Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act:    Yes  ¨    No  x

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act:    Yes  x    No  ¨

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 registrant’s 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:  x

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

 

Large accelerated filer  ¨    Accelerated filer  ¨    Non-accelerated filer  x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act):    Yes  ¨    No  x

 



Table of Contents

MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

INDEX TO FORM 10-K

 

    Page
Number

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

  1
PART I  

Item 1.

  Business   2

Item 1A.

  Risk Factors   33

Item 1B.

  Unresolved Staff Comments   44

Item 2.

  Properties   44

Item 3.

  Legal Proceedings   45

Item 4.

  Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders   45
PART II  

Item 5.

  Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities   46

Item 6.

  Selected Financial Data   46

Item 7.

  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations   47

Item 7A.

  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk   77

Item 8.

  Financial Statements and Supplementary Data   78

Item 9.

  Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure   78

Item 9A.

  Controls and Procedures   78

Item 9B.

  Other Information   78
PART III  

Item 10.

  Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance   79

Item 11.

  Executive Compensation   82

Item 12.

  Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters   91

Item 13.

  Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence   92

Item 14.

  Principal Accountant Fees and Services   94
PART IV  

Item 15.

  Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules   95

Signatures

  96

Supplemental Information

 

Index to Consolidated Financial Statements

  F-1

Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves

  S-1


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References in this Form 10-K to the “Authority” and the “Tribe” are to the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority and the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut, respectively. The terms “we,” “us” and “our” refer to the Authority.

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Form 10-K contains statements about future events, including without limitation, information relating to business development activities, as well as capital spending, financing sources and the effects of regulation (including gaming and tax regulation) and increased competition. All statements other than statements of historical fact are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements, within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These statements sometimes can be identified by our use of forward-looking words such as “may,” “will,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” or “intend” and similar expressions. Such forward-looking information involves important risks and uncertainties that could significantly affect anticipated results in the future and, accordingly, such results may differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by us or on our behalf. You should review carefully all of the information in this Form 10-K, including the consolidated financial statements.

In addition to the risk factors described under “Part I. Item 1A. Risk Factors,” the following important factors, among others, could affect our future financial condition or results of operations, causing actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements:

 

   

increased competition (including the legalization or expansion of gaming in New England, New York, New Jersey or Pennsylvania);

 

   

the financial performance of Mohegan Sun and Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs and the off-track wagering facilities;

 

   

our ability to develop an approximately 1.35 million square-foot expansion at Mohegan Sun, known as Project Horizon, which includes a new 922-room hotel, on time and within budget;

 

   

our ability to successfully integrate the new amenities from the expansion into Mohegan Sun’s current operations and manage the expanded resort;

 

   

our ability to develop a Phase II gaming facility at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs, known as Project Sunrise, on time and within budget;

 

   

our ability to implement successfully our diversification strategy;

 

   

our dependence on existing management;

 

   

the local, regional, national or global economic climate;

 

   

an act of terrorism in the United States of America;

 

   

our leverage and ability to meet our debt service obligations, including significant increases expected to finance Project Horizon and Project Sunrise;

 

   

changes in federal or state tax laws or the administration of such laws;

 

   

changes in gaming laws or regulations (including the limitation, denial or suspension of licenses required under gaming laws and regulations); and

 

   

the continued availability of financing, including obtaining modifications to the new bank credit facility to address the revisions to Project Horizon and the revised cost projection for Project Sunrise.

These factors and the other risk factors discussed in this Form 10-K are not necessarily all of the important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any of the forward-looking statements. Other unknown or unpredictable factors also could have material adverse effects on our future results. The forward-looking statements included in this Form 10-K are made only as of the date of this Form 10-K. We cannot assure you that any projected results or events will be achieved. We do not have and do not undertake any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

 

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PART I

Item 1. Business

Overview

The Tribe and the Authority

The Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut, or the Mohegan Tribe or the Tribe, is a federally recognized Indian tribe with an approximately 507-acre reservation situated in southeastern Connecticut, adjacent to Uncasville, Connecticut. Under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988, or IGRA, federally recognized Indian tribes are permitted to conduct full-scale casino gaming operations on tribal lands, subject to, among other things, the negotiation of a gaming compact with the state in which they operate. The Tribe and the State of Connecticut have entered into such a compact, the Mohegan Compact, which has been approved by the United States Secretary of the Interior. We were established as an instrumentality of the Tribe, with the exclusive power to conduct and regulate gaming activities on tribal lands and the non-exclusive authority to conduct such activities elsewhere. Our gaming operation at Mohegan Sun is one of only two legally authorized gaming operations in New England offering traditional slot machines and table games. Through our subsidiary, Downs Racing, L.P., or Downs Racing, we also own Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs, or Pocono Downs, a gaming and entertainment facility offering slot machines and harness racing in Plains Township, Pennsylvania, and several off-track wagering, or OTW, facilities located elsewhere in Pennsylvania. We are governed by a nine-member Management Board, whose members also comprise the Mohegan Tribal Council (the governing body of the Tribe). Any change in the composition of the Mohegan Tribal Council results in a corresponding change in our Management Board.

Our mailing address is One Mohegan Sun Boulevard, Uncasville, CT 06382 and our telephone number is (860) 862-8000. Our website is located at www.mtga.com. Through our website, we make available, free of charge, our annual reports on Form 10-K, our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, our current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These reports are available as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file these materials with, or furnish them to, the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Mohegan Sun

In October 1996, we opened a gaming and entertainment complex known as Mohegan Sun. Mohegan Sun is located on a 185-acre site on the Tribe’s reservation overlooking the Thames River with direct access from Interstate 395 and Connecticut Route 2A via a four-lane access road. Mohegan Sun is approximately 125 miles from New York City and approximately 100 miles from Boston, Massachusetts. In fiscal year 2002, we completed a major expansion of Mohegan Sun known as Project Sunburst. The first phase of Project Sunburst, the Casino of the Sky, which included increased gaming, restaurant and retail space and an entertainment arena, opened in September 2001. The remaining components, including the approximately 1,200-room luxury Sky hotel and approximately 100,000 square feet of convention space, were fully opened in June 2002.

Mohegan Sun operates in an approximately 3.0 million square-foot facility, which includes the following:

Casino of the Earth

As of September 30, 2007, the Casino of the Earth had approximately 188,000 square feet of gaming space and offered:

 

   

approximately 3,775 slot machines and 210 table games (including blackjack, roulette, craps and baccarat);

 

   

food and beverage amenities, including the Birches Bar & Grill (formerly Uncas American Indian Grill), a 285-seat full-service restaurant and bar, three full-service themed fine dining restaurants, with

 

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a fourth area featuring cuisine from all three adjacent restaurant themes, a 610-seat buffet, a ten-station food court featuring international and domestic cuisine, “Hong Kong” Street food outlet offering authentic Southeast Asian cuisine and multiple service bars, all operated by us, for a current total of approximately 1,700 restaurant seats;

 

   

an approximately 10,000 square-foot, 410-seat lounge featuring live entertainment seven days a week;

 

   

an approximately 11,000 square-foot simulcasting race book facility; and

 

   

five retail shops providing shopping opportunities ranging from Mohegan Sun logo souvenirs to cigars.

Casino of the Sky

As of September 30, 2007, the Casino of the Sky had approximately 119,000 square feet of gaming space and offered:

 

   

approximately 2,410 slot machines and 120 table games (including blackjack, roulette, craps and baccarat);

 

   

food and beverage amenities, including two full-service restaurants, two quick-service restaurants, a 24-hour coffee shop, a 320-seat buffet and five lounges and bars operated by us, as well as four full-service restaurants, three quick-service restaurants and a multi-station food court operated by third parties, for a total of approximately 2,600 restaurant seats;

 

   

Mohegan After Dark, consisting of a nightclub, a lounge and a pub, all operated by a third party;

 

   

the Mohegan Sun Arena with seating for up to 10,000;

 

   

a 350-seat Cabaret;

 

   

the Shops at Mohegan Sun containing 32 different retail shops, eight of which we own;

 

 

 

an approximately 1,200-room luxury hotel with a private high limit table games suite on the 36th floor;

 

   

an approximately 20,000 square-foot spa operated by a third party;

 

   

approximately 100,000 square feet of convention space; and

 

   

a child care facility and an arcade style entertainment area operated by a third party.

Mohegan Sun has parking spaces for approximately 13,000 guests and 3,100 employees. In addition, we operate a gasoline and convenience center, an approximately 4,000 square foot, 20-pump facility located adjacent to Mohegan Sun.

Project Horizon

We have undertaken a major expansion of Mohegan Sun, known as Project Horizon. Project Horizon consists of four major components (Sunrise Square, Property Infrastructure, Casino of the Wind and the Earth Expansion). The plans for Project Horizon currently include adding substantially more hotel rooms, gaming space and other new non-gaming amenities to Mohegan Sun. The total number of slot machines at Mohegan Sun is projected to increase to approximately 7,000 units, complemented by approximately 380 table games (including poker tables) when the project is completed.

Groundbreaking occurred in November 2006 with the construction of Sunrise Square, a new Asian themed gaming area, which includes a new 5,000-square-foot bus lobby, a 4,000-square-foot “Hong Kong” Street food outlet and 8,500 square feet of gaming space offering 46 table games such as Mini-Baccarat, Sic Bo and Pai Gow Poker. The gaming component of Sunrise Square partially opened in July 2007, and the remainder of the new facility opened in August 2007. The estimated cost of this component totaled $17.0 million.

 

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The Property Infrastructure component of the project is underway and includes a 1,700-space parking garage and additional surface parking lots, site development and road improvements on or adjacent to the property. The estimated cost of this component is $101.0 million.

We are also developing the Casino of the Wind, a new gaming area adjacent to the Casino of the Sky, which is expected to include approximately 45,000 square feet of gaming space with approximately 825 slot machines, 28 table games and a themed poker room with 42 tables, as well as approximately 20,000 square feet of new dining and retail amenities, including a two-level 16,000-square-foot Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Restaurant. Groundbreaking for the Casino of the Wind occurred in June 2007, and the new casino is scheduled to open in the fall of 2008. The estimated cost of this component is $125.0 million.

Project Horizon also is planned to include the Earth Expansion, featuring the Earth hotel which is expected to include approximately 922 rooms, including approximately 261 House of Blues-themed hotel rooms and a House of Blues Foundation Room. The Earth Expansion is also planned to include new House of Blues-themed dining and entertainment amenities, including an approximately 19,400 square foot music hall. In addition, the Earth Expansion will include a special events facility, approximately 35,000 square feet of retail space, additional food and beverage facilities, including two fine-dining options, a burger restaurant, four bars, a pizzeria and a three-station food court. The Earth hotel and related facilities are expected to open in October 2010. The estimated cost of this component is $682.0 million.

Total costs for Project Horizon, inclusive of costs incurred to date for Sunrise Square and the Casino of the Wind, currently are estimated to be approximately $925.0 million. Remaining project costs are estimated to be incurred as follows: fiscal year 2008 $252.0 million, fiscal year 2009 $303.0 million, fiscal year 2010 $294.0 million and fiscal year 2011 $30.0 million.

Connecticut Sun

In January 2003, we formed a wholly owned subsidiary, the Mohegan Basketball Club LLC, or MBC, for the purpose of owning and operating a professional basketball team in the Women’s National Basketball Association, or WNBA. MBC entered into a membership agreement with the WNBA permitting it to operate the Connecticut Sun basketball team. The team plays its home games in the Mohegan Sun Arena.

Mohegan Golf

In November 2006, we formed a wholly owned subsidiary, Mohegan Golf, LLC, or Mohegan Golf, to purchase and operate a golf course in southeastern Connecticut. In May 2007, Mohegan Golf acquired substantially all of the assets of Pautipaug Country Club Inc., or PCC, which included a golf course located in Sprague and Franklin, Connecticut. Mohegan Golf incurred total acquisition costs of $4.7 million for the golf course and other items acquired from PCC. The club was renamed Mohegan Sun Country Club at Pautipaug and opened for the season in June 2007.

Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs

Through Downs Racing, we own and operate the slot machine and harness racing facility known as Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs located on approximately 400 acres in Plains Township, Pennsylvania, as well as several Pennsylvania OTWs located in Carbondale, East Stroudsburg, Hazleton and Lehigh Valley (Allentown), collectively known as the Pocono Downs entities. Harness racing has been conducted at Pocono Downs since 1965. The Lehigh Valley (Allentown) OTW is a 28,000 square-foot facility and is the largest OTW in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Another OTW in Erie, Pennsylvania was sold to a third party in July 2007 for consideration of $7.0 million in cash, pursuant to an agreement we assumed in connection with our purchase of the Pocono Downs entities (see Note 17 to our consolidated financial statements).

 

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Downs Racing completed the 2007 harness racing season at Pocono Downs in November 2007 and will continue the harness racing activities when the 2008 racing season begins in the spring of 2008. Year round simulcast pari-mutuel wagering activities also are conducted at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs and the OTW facilities. A new state of the art, pari-mutuel simulcast facility at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs opened in March 2006.

On August 7, 2006, we entered into an amendment of the Pocono Downs purchase agreement with the seller, a subsidiary of Penn National Gaming, Inc. Pursuant to the amendment, in exchange for our agreement to modify certain provisions of the purchase agreement, including the elimination of our post-closing termination rights, we will receive an aggregate refund of $30.0 million of the original purchase price for the Pocono Downs entities, payable in five annual installments of $7.0 million, $7.0 million, $6.5 million, $6.0 million and $3.5 million in November 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively. The first installment of $7.0 million was received in November 2007.

Downs Racing has secured a permanent Category One slot machine license, which permits the installation and operation of up to 3,000 slot machines at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs. Under certain circumstances, Downs Racing may be permitted to install up to a total of 5,000 slot machines at Pocono Downs. A minimum of 1,500 slot machines were required to be in operation by November 2007; however, in November 2007, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, or the PGCB, granted Downs Racing a one-year extension to reach the 1,500 slot machine threshold.

After the satisfaction of certain regulatory conditions and the payment of a one-time slot machine license fee of $50.0 million to the PGCB in October 2006, Downs Racing was the first to offer slot machine gaming in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania when Phase I of its gaming and entertainment facility opened to the public on November 14, 2006. The total cost incurred for development of the Phase I facility was approximately $70.0 million, excluding the $50.0 million one-time slot machine license fee. The two-level casino includes 90,000 square feet of gaming space, operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week and houses approximately 1,100 new slot machines with denominations ranging from one cent to $25. The facility also offers two casino bars, a food court and a retail shop. In June 2007, renovations were completed in the current food court to accommodate the installation of approximately 80 additional slot machine gaming positions. Approximately 40 of these new positions are comprised of video blackjack units approved by the PGCB.

Project Sunrise, the Phase II gaming and entertainment facility at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs, is being developed on land adjacent to the existing gaming facility. When completed, the combined facility is anticipated to include approximately 2,500 slot machines, three fine dining restaurants, a 300-seat buffet, an expanded food court, retail shopping, nightlife venues, additional parking and bus amenities. Construction commenced in May 2007 with a grand opening planned in the summer of 2008. Development of Project Sunrise is anticipated to cost approximately $208.0 million.

Other Diversification Projects

The Tribe has determined that it is in its long-term best interest to pursue diversification of its business interests, both directly and through us. As a result, from time to time, we and the Tribe receive and evaluate various business opportunities. These opportunities primarily include the management or ownership of, or investment in, other gaming enterprises through direct investments, acquisitions, joint venture arrangements and loan transactions. In addition to the developments described below, we and the Tribe are currently exploring other opportunities, although there is no assurance that we or the Tribe will continue to pursue any of these other opportunities or that any of them will be consummated.

 

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Cowlitz Project

In July 2004, we formed Mohegan Ventures-Northwest, LLC, or Mohegan Ventures-NW, one of three members in Salishan-Mohegan LLC, or Salishan-Mohegan. Salishan-Mohegan was formed to participate in the development and management of a casino to be located in Clark County, Washington and owned by the Cowlitz Indian Tribe, or the Cowlitz Project. Mohegan Ventures-NW holds a 49.15% membership interest, the Mohegan Tribe holds a 7.85% membership interest and Salishan Company, LLC, or Salishan Company, holds a 43.0% membership interest in Salishan-Mohegan. Mohegan Ventures-NW and the Mohegan Tribe each hold one of four seats on the Board of Managers of Salishan-Mohegan.

In September 2004, Salishan-Mohegan entered into development and management agreements with the Cowlitz Tribe regarding the Cowlitz Project. Under the terms of the development agreement, Salishan-Mohegan administers and oversees the planning, designing, development, construction, and furnishing, as well as providing assistance with the financing of the Cowlitz Project. The development agreement provides for certain development fees of 3% of total Project Costs, as defined in the development agreement, which are to be distributed to Mohegan Ventures—NW and the Mohegan Tribe pursuant to the Salishan-Mohegan operating agreement. In April 2006, Salishan-Mohegan purchased the land to be used as the site for the planned casino, which will be transferred to the Cowlitz Tribe or the United States under certain conditions in the development agreement. The management agreement is for a period of seven years commencing with the opening of the planned casino, during which Salishan-Mohegan will manage, operate and maintain the planned casino. The management agreement provides for a management fee of 24% of Net Revenues, as defined in the management agreement, which approximates net income from the Cowlitz Project. Pursuant to the operating agreement, management fees will be allocated to the members of Salishan-Mohegan based on their respective membership percentages. Development of the Cowlitz Project is subject to certain governmental and regulatory approvals, including, but not limited to, negotiating a gaming compact with the State of Washington and the United States Department of the Interior accepting land into trust on behalf of the Cowlitz Tribe. The management agreement is subject to approval by the National Indian Gaming Commission, or the NIGC.

Menominee Project

In October 2004, we entered into a management agreement with the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin, or the Menominee Tribe, and the Menominee Kenosha Gaming Authority. The terms of the management agreement grant us the exclusive right and obligation to manage, operate and maintain a planned casino and destination resort to be located in Kenosha, Wisconsin, or the Menominee Project, for a period of seven years commencing with the opening of the planned casino, in consideration of a management fee of 13.4% of Net Revenues, as defined in the management agreement, which approximates net income earned from the Menominee Project. The management agreement is subject to approval by the NIGC.

In March 2007, Wisconsin Tribal Gaming, LLC, or WTG, was formed to participate in the development of the proposed casino to be owned by the Menominee Tribe. WTG consists of two members, one of which is Mohegan Ventures Wisconsin, LLC (a wholly owned subsidiary of the Authority formed in March 2007), or MVW, which holds an 85.4% membership interest in WTG, and the other is Mohegan Ventures, LLC (a wholly owned subsidiary of the Mohegan Tribe), or MV, which holds a 14.6% membership interest in WTG. Following formation in March 2007, WTG purchased the development rights for the Menominee Project, along with certain other assets, and assumed certain liabilities from Kenesah Gaming Development, LLC for consideration of $6.4 million. As a result of the purchase, the Authority and the Mohegan Tribe, through MVW and MV, respectively, will receive development fees payable to WTG of 13.4% of Available Revenue Flow, as defined in the development agreement with the Menominee Tribe and the Menominee Kenosha Gaming Authority, which approximates net income from the Menominee Project over a period of seven years following the opening of the casino. Development of the Menominee Project is subject to certain governmental and regulatory approvals, including but not limited to, the United States Department of the Interior accepting new land into trust for gaming at the project site in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

 

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Other Projects

New York

In October 2007, through our wholly owned subsidiary, MTGA Gaming, LLC, or MTGA Gaming, we submitted a proposal to the State of New York, along with Capital Play, Inc., to manage the proposed Video Lottery Terminal, or VLT, facility at Aqueduct Racetrack in Jamaica, New York. If MTGA Gaming’s bid is selected, we would manage the proposed 4,500 VLT facility at Aqueduct Racetrack, expected to open in June 2009.

Kansas

In September 2007, MTGA Gaming, along with Olympia Gaming-KC, LLC, and RED Leg Sun, LLC, or RED, formed Leg Sun, LLC, a joint venture which was created to submit an application to the Kansas Lottery Commission for the proposed development of a gaming facility and destination resort to be named Legends Sun and located in Wyandotte County, Kansas. In accordance with the Kansas Expanded Lottery Act, which is subject to a pending constitutional challenge in Kansas state court, the project would be subject to various reviews, requirements and approvals by the Kansas Lottery Commission, which is considering several other bids for the right to develop a single resort casino in Wyandotte County. Three applicants, including Leg Sun, LLC, have received the conditional endorsement of the Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas for their proposals.

The proposed $770.0 million Legends Sun complex would feature a wide array of attractions and amenities that include a casino with approximately 2,000 slot machines, 60 table games and 25 poker tables, a Robert Trent Jones II designed championship golf course, a luxury hotel with approximately 350 rooms, a convention and conference facility, approximately 200,000 square feet of high-end retail and approximately 200,000 square feet of residential development. If selected, we would also manage the casino and related operations and RED would manage the retail and residential components of the project.

Strategy

Our overall strategy is to profit from expanding demand in the gaming market in our market areas as well as to diversify the Tribe’s business interests in the gaming industry outside of Mohegan Sun, as discussed above. Mohegan Sun’s initial success has resulted primarily from patronage from guests residing within 100 miles of Mohegan Sun, which represents our primary market. We have also enjoyed additional patronage from guests residing within a 100 to 200 mile radius of Mohegan Sun, which represents our secondary market. Based upon Mohegan Sun’s results and experience, we believe the gaming market in these markets continues to be strong. With the completion of Project Sunburst in 2002, we have developed Mohegan Sun into a full-scale entertainment and destination resort, which has led to increases in the number of guests and lengthened the duration of their stays at our facility. We believe our Project Horizon expansion will enable us to further strengthen our position in the northeastern gaming market by capitalizing on the increasing demand for gaming and non-gaming amenities and enhancing our premier destination resort to mitigate impacts from future competition.

With the opening of the slot machine facility at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs in November 2006, we have taken a significant step in our diversification efforts. After the completion of Project Sunrise, expected in the summer of 2008, we believe we will have another first class gaming and entertainment property that will enable us to profit from a new gaming market outside of Mohegan Sun.

Market and Competition from Other Gaming Operations

Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods Resort Casino, or Foxwoods, are the only two legally authorized gaming operations offering both traditional slot machines and table games in New England. Foxwoods, operated by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe under procedures approved by the United States Department of the Interior, is located approximately 10 miles from Mohegan Sun and is currently the largest gaming facility in the

 

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United States in terms of total gaming positions. Based on the size and success of Foxwoods and the rapid growth of Mohegan Sun, we believe that the gaming market in New England and our remaining market area remains underserved.

Since the completion of Project Sunburst in 2002, we have broadened Mohegan Sun’s target market beyond day-trip customers to include guests making overnight stays at the resort. Consequently, Mohegan Sun also now competes directly for customers with resort casinos in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Some of these casinos have greater resources, operating experience and name recognition than Mohegan Sun.

Under current law, outside of Atlantic City, New Jersey, full-scale commercial casino gaming in the northeastern United States may be conducted only by federally recognized Indian tribes operating under federal Indian gaming laws or on cruise ships in international waters. In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of Indian tribes seeking to engage in commercial casino gaming, including full-scale commercial casinos, in the northeastern United States and in the number of individual groups seeking to obtain federal recognition as Indian tribes so that they may engage in commercial casino gaming in the northeastern United States. Under federal law, after obtaining federal recognition and before gaming operations may commence, a tribe must, among other things, have land taken into trust by the federal government, negotiate a gaming compact with the state in which they intend to engage in commercial casino gaming, adopt a tribal gaming ordinance and construct a facility. A tribe may also need to negotiate a gaming management agreement and obtain funding to construct a facility. As described below, many Indian tribes and individual groups seeking to gain federal recognition as Indian tribes are pursuing commercial casino gaming in the northeastern United States.

A number of states, including Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New York, have considered legalizing one or more forms of commercial casino gaming in one or more locations. We also face existing and future competition in the immediate Pennsylvania gaming market (refer to “Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs” below). Based on internal analysis of the existing and potential gaming market in our market areas, we believe that competition from other commercial casino gaming operations will continue to increase in the future.

We are unable to predict whether any of the efforts by other federally recognized Indian tribes or individual groups attempting to gain federal recognition as Indian tribes or legalization of commercial casino gaming by non-Indians will lead to the establishment of additional commercial casino gaming operations in the northeastern United States. If established, we are uncertain of the impact such commercial casino gaming operations will have on our operations and our ability to meet our financial obligations.

Mohegan Sun

The following is an assessment of the competitive prospects in Connecticut and the northeastern United States affecting Mohegan Sun:

Connecticut

Currently, only the Tribe and the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe are authorized to conduct commercial casino gaming in Connecticut. As required by their individual Memorandum of Understanding, or MOU, with the State of Connecticut, the Tribe and the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe make monthly payments to the State of Connecticut based on a portion of the revenues from their slot machines. Pursuant to the terms of an exclusivity clause in each MOU, the payments will terminate if there is any change in state law that permits operation of slot machines or other commercial casino games or if any other person lawfully operates slot machines or other commercial casino games within the State of Connecticut (except those consented to by the Tribe and the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe).

In February 2005, the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe announced its plans to undertake a three-year, $700.0 million expansion at Foxwoods, which is expected to add over two million square feet to the facility, including

 

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an 825-room hotel tower, a spa, a theater, additional retail, entertainment and parking spaces and additional meeting, convention and reception facilities. In addition, the expansion is expected to include 50,000 square feet of gaming space and will accommodate an additional 1,500 slot machines and 45 table games. Groundbreaking activities occurred in November 2005, and the facility is scheduled to open in May of 2008. On December 8, 2006, the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe and MGM Mirage, Inc. announced that they had completed agreements that include the development of the new hotel and casino described above. The new hotel and casino will be known as the “MGM Grand at Foxwoods” and will be owned and operated by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe but with marketing and other services available under license from MGM Mirage. In May 2005, the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe completed the construction of two golf courses and a clubhouse and subsequently opened eight golf villas and a golf academy. In November 2007, Foxwoods announced an additional investment of $55.0 million to add additional restaurants and shops to MGM Grand at Foxwoods.

In May 2005, the Interior Board of Indian Appeals, or IBIA overturned the federal recognition of the Historical Eastern Pequot Tribe and the Schaghticoke Tribe. Both tribes have since filed several appeals seeking to reverse the 2005 ruling, all of which have been unsuccessful. The Golden Hill Paugussett Tribe and the Hassanamisco Band of the Nipmuc Tribe have also been unsuccessful in their attempts to pursue gaming in Connecticut.

Rhode Island

Commercial casino gaming does not exist in Rhode Island, although the state’s two pari-mutuel facilities, Twin River and Newport Grand, together offer approximately 5,700 video lottery terminals or VLTs.

BLB Investors, LLC, or BLB, operates the Twin River complex (formerly known as Lincoln Park), with approximately 4,700 VLTs and themed bars, upscale restaurants, a 350-seat buffet and a 2,000-seat entertainment venue. Additional expansion, which is to include renovation of existing gaming space, is scheduled for completion in 2008.

In addition to approving the increase in VLTs at Twin River, the Rhode Island legislature approved the addition of 800 VLTs at Newport Grand. After several delays, in August 2007, the owners of Newport Grand broke ground on a $20.0 million project, which includes a 90-room hotel and is slated to increase the number of VLTs to over 2,100. The projected opening date is summer 2008.

The Narragansett Indian Tribe of Rhode Island, with a reservation in Charlestown, is the only federally recognized Indian tribe in Rhode Island. However, under specific terms of the Narragansett Land Claims Settlement Act passed by Congress in 1983, the Narragansett Tribe is prohibited from opening a gaming facility under IGRA on its reservation. The Narragansett Tribe and an affiliate of Harrah’s Entertainment have pursued a license to operate a casino in West Warwick, Rhode Island on 86 acres of non-tribal land. On November 7, 2006, a proposed amendment to the state constitution to allow such a venture was rejected by approximately a two-to-one margin. The Narragansett Tribe has indicated in published reports that it will continue to pursue the development of a $50.0 million to $100.0 million casino on its tribal lands in Charlestown. On July 20, 2007, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit ruled that the federal government could take an additional 31 acres of land in Charlestown into trust for the Narragansett Tribe. The tribe has stated the purpose of the land is for housing of elderly tribal members; however, published reports indicate that the Narragansett Tribe may attempt to use this land or future parcels for gaming.

There are several pending federal recognition petitions from other Rhode Island groups. It is not clear if, or when, federal recognition for these groups will be achieved.

 

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New York

Mohegan Sun also currently faces competition from several casinos and gaming facilities located on Indian tribal lands in New York, and from racetracks in New York that operate, or are planning to operate, VLTs. New York has six federally recognized tribes located in the central, northern and western parts of the state. Three of these tribes, the Oneida Nation of New York, the Seneca Nation and the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe of New York, currently engage in casino gaming. In addition to these three tribes, other Indian tribes have been pursuing potential casino projects, which if completed, will add significant casino space and hotel rooms to the northeastern United States gaming market. In addition, racetracks located in Yonkers, Batavia, Hamburg, Nichols, Vernon, Monticello, Saratoga Springs and Farmington, New York currently operate an aggregate of approximately 13,000 VLTs.

In October 2001, the New York State Legislature approved legislation that permitted as many as six gaming operations by Indian tribes in New York, in addition to the Oneida Nation’s Turning Stone Casino and St. Regis Akwesasne Mohawk Casino already in operation. This legislation approved the use of traditional slot machines, rather than VLTs, where the possession and use of traditional slot machines is authorized pursuant to a tribal-state compact. Up to three of these additional casinos may be owned by the Seneca Nation and the three others may be located in either Ulster County or Sullivan County in the Catskills region of New York. The Governor of New York reached tentative land claim settlements with various tribes and supported legislation for as many as five tribal casinos in the Catskills between 2001 and 2005. However, a 2005 U.S. Supreme Court decision regarding tribal jurisdiction over Indian tribal lands not held in trust by the United States and subsequent federal court decisions have dismissed certain of these land claims and stalled negotiations for casino projects in the Catskills, with the exception of the St. Regis Mohawk proposal for a casino in Monticello.

Summarized below is the status of current and potential gaming operations by federally recognized tribes in the State of New York:

 

   

Oneida Nation—The Oneida Nation of New York operates Turning Stone Casino Resort in Verona, New York, near Syracuse, approximately 270 miles from Mohegan Sun. Turning Stone Casino Resort currently has approximately 2,100 VLTs, 100 table games, 20 tables for live poker and 350 hotel rooms. Published reports indicate the Oneida Nation has also completed an approximately $308.0 million expansion effort at Turning Stone, which includes, among other things, the addition of approximately 400 hotel rooms and suites and 30,000 square feet of gaming space. Turning Stone currently draws customers primarily from the Syracuse market. After the Oneida Nation gaming compact with the State of New York was invalidated by New York state courts, in June 2007, the Oneida Nation announced that the Department of Interior determined that it would not review the legality of the tribe’s gaming compact with the State of New York. After the 2005 U.S. Supreme Court decision ruling that Oneida Nation-owned properties in the City of Sherrill were subject to local taxes and regulations, the Oneida Nation applied to place approximately 35,000 acres of land into trust, including the Turning Stone Casino Resort property. State and county tax actions have been rejected at the federal district court level, but those actions continue.

 

   

St. Regis Mohawk Tribe—In March 2006, Empire Resorts announced an agreement with the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe to develop a casino resort adjacent to the Monticello Raceway in Monticello, New York. Prior agreements (relating to an abandoned project) for municipal and county assistance and payments in lieu of taxes also have been extended to apply to the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe’s ownership of the approximately 29 acre site in Monticello. Plans for the project include 160,000 square feet of gaming space for 3,500 slot machines and 125 table games, with sufficient space to accommodate an additional 500 slot machines, and a variety of food and beverage offerings and entertainment venues.

In connection with the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe’s application to acquire the Monticello site, the tribe submitted an environmental assessment for the project, which received final approval by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, or BIA in December 2006. In February 2007, the Governor of New York and the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe executed a new tribal-state compact and revenue sharing agreement. The United States Department of the Interior must still approve the taking of the 29-acre planned casino site into

 

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trust. Also in February 2007, several New York farm and conservation groups filed suit against the Department of the Interior, challenging the approved environmental assessment. On November 1, 2007, the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe filed suit against the U.S. Secretary of the Interior seeking to compel the Secretary to take action on the pending land-into-trust application.

 

   

Seneca Nation—Under the compact between the Seneca Nation and the State of New York and the 2001 authorizing legislation, the Seneca Nation is permitted to operate three casinos in the western portion of the state, and, with the opening of a temporary casino in Buffalo in July 2007, the Seneca Nation now operates all three. The Seneca Nation opened its first casino in Niagara Falls in December 2002. In December 2005, the Seneca Nation opened its new $200.0 million hotel and casino in Niagara Falls. The hotel has 604 rooms, two restaurants, a bar and an event center. The casino provides 35,000 square feet of gaming space, which includes approximately 4,200 slot machines and approximately 100 table games. This casino offers full-scale gaming similar to that offered at Mohegan Sun; however, we do not draw a significant number of customers from the Niagara Falls market. A second, temporary facility opened on the Seneca Nation reservation in Salamanca, New York in May 2004. The permanent Seneca Allegany Casino & Hotel now has approximately 2,200 slot machines and 40 table games in approximately 68,000 square feet of gaming space, with approximately 220 hotel rooms. On July 3, 2007, the temporary casino in downtown Buffalo was opened, featuring 119 slot machines and a snack bar. The permanent “Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino” is scheduled to open in 2010 and is expected to contain 2,100 slot machines, 50 table games, dining and parking for approximately 2,500 vehicles. The Seneca Nation is also pursuing gaming development in Massachusetts in connection with the Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe of Massachusetts (see “Massachusetts” below).

 

   

Cayuga Indian Nation of New York and Seneca-Cayuga Tribe of Oklahoma—The Cayuga Indian Nation currently has a pending land-into-trust application for 125 acres in Cayuga and Seneca counties in central New York. The Seneca-Cayuga Tribe also has a pending land-into-trust application for a 229 acre farm owned by the tribe in Aurelius, New York, in Cayuga County.

 

   

Shinnecock Tribe—The Shinnecock Tribe, which had previously announced intentions to construct an approximately 65,000 square-foot commercial casino gaming facility adjacent to land it owns on Long Island, New York, recently submitted a proposal to take over the Aqueduct Raceway in Queens, New York in conjunction with Gateway Casino Resorts. The Shinnecock Tribe is recognized by the State of New York, but its petition to receive federal recognition is still pending with the BIA. In November 2005, a federal district court in New York found that the Shinnecock Tribe met all the legal requirements to be considered a federally recognized tribe and remanded the case for consideration of other issues, including the Shinnecock’s land claims. In January 2006, the BIA declared that it is not bound by that federal district court ruling. Accordingly, the Shinnecock Tribe is continuing its pursuit for federal recognition, which published reports indicate could take several years. On November 28, 2006, a New York federal district court rejected the Shinnecock Tribe’s claim to 3,600 acres in Long Island.

Other tribes also may be attempting to develop various forms of gaming operations in the state of New York. In addition, there are several pending federal recognition petitions from other New York groups, but we believe none are being actively considered by the BIA for federal recognition. It is not clear if or when federal recognition for these groups will be achieved.

Empire City at Yonkers Raceway, in Yonkers, New York, opened its new gaming facility with 1,800 VLTs in October 2006. In March 2007, Empire City opened the Gotham Palace facility, which added 3,700 additional terminals, as well as a new restaurant, bar area and bandstand. Empire City reportedly plans to increase its VLTs at Yonkers to 7,500 terminals as permitted under state law. Given its geographic proximity to New York City, the Yonkers facility may have distinct advantages over Mohegan Sun in competition for day-trip and other customers from the New York metropolitan region.

 

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In March 2006, the New York racing oversight board approved a construction contract for a $182.0 million improvement to the Aqueduct race track facility, one of three tracks owned and operated by the New York Racing Authority, or NYRA, and the installation of 4,500 VLTs; however, that improvement has been delayed due to the NYRA’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in November 2006. The thoroughbred racing contract between the NYRA and the State of New York expires on December 31, 2007. A State of New York panel is currently reviewing recommendations for new operators of the NYRA facilities, including Aqueduct, Belmont and Saratoga racetracks (refer to “—Overview-Other Diversification Projects-New York” above). No additional VLTs at the Saratoga thoroughbred racetrack are being considered due to the existence of VLTs at the Saratoga harness racetrack and VLTs at Belmont would require additional state legislation. In September 2007, Governor Spitzer recommended to the state legislature that NYRA retain its franchise racing rights at Aqueduct, Belmont and Saratoga but that VLT contracts be awarded separately. The Authority, in conjunction with Capital Play, is one of seven groups that has submitted a bid to operate at least 4,500 VLTs at Aqueduct Racetrack. The other bidders include Foxwoods Development Co., Delaware North and Gateway Casino Resorts, in conjunction with the Shinnecock Tribe.

Currently, there are no non-Indian casinos operating in the State of New York, and the establishment of non-Indian commercial casino operations would require the approval of two successive state legislatures, followed by the voters in a statewide referendum. However, gambling boats began operating “cruises to nowhere” out of the New York City and Long Island areas in January 1998. To date, New York has not prohibited gambling boat operations and only a small number of operators have applied for licenses for offshore gambling cruises. These “cruises to nowhere”, during which casino gaming activities are conducted on board once the boat is in international waters, are permitted under federal law unless prohibited by the state from

which they operate. Due to the difference in the gaming experience, we do not believe that the “cruises to nowhere” are significant competition to Mohegan Sun.

Massachusetts

In October 2007, Governor Deval Patrick filed legislation calling for the award of licenses for three major gaming facilities to be built in the western, southeastern and metropolitan Boston areas of the state and conducted the first hearing on the subject on December 18, 2007. Various groups have expressed interest in constructing and operating these facilities, including the Authority. A partnership with a federally recognized, eligible Massachusetts tribe is identified as one of the criteria that will be used to assess proposals. The Speaker of the State House of Representatives has repeatedly stated that he is opposed to the plan and that it is not expected to pass the House, as currently crafted.

The Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah) of Massachusetts, located on the island of Martha’s Vineyard, is one of two federally recognized tribes in Massachusetts. The Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe is subject to certain restrictions on gaming, including gaming on its existing reservation on Martha’s Vineyard, but has announced plans to consider gaming in Massachusetts. The tribe would have preference under the Governor’s state gaming proposal and has recently announced a partnership with the Seneca Nation of New York to pursue gaming in Massachusetts.

The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe, which received federal recognition in February 2007, secured in April 2007 a group of financial backers to acquire a 125-acre tract of land in Middleboro, which is located in southeastern Massachusetts, as a potential site for a resort casino and the tribe’s initial reservation. The tribe’s financial backers also purchased an option to buy an additional 200 acres adjacent to the site. Reports indicate the tribe expects to work with the Governor to negotiate a tribal-state compact within the coming year. On July 28, 2007, voters in the town of Middleboro ratified a host community, intergovernmental agreement with the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe to allow for the tribe’s planned $1.0 billion casino and 1,500-room hotel, in exchange for funding of infrastructure improvements and annual payments to the town. The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe has also expressed interest in opening a Class II and/or Class III gaming facility under appropriate IGRA provisions.

 

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A number of other petitions for federal recognition are pending in Massachusetts, but if these petitions are ultimately successful, we believe final recognition would, at the earliest, be several years away.

New Jersey

In the state of New Jersey, Mohegan Sun primarily competes for overnight customers with casinos located in Atlantic City. The Atlantic City gaming market currently consists of twelve casino properties, with a total of approximately 14,000 hotel rooms and 1.4 million square feet of gaming space, containing approximately 42,000 slot machines and 1,400 table games. These properties include the Borgata, a casino resort complex completed in the summer of 2003, the first new casino in Atlantic City in 13 years.

Several proposed developments and expansions of casino, hotel, retail and entertainment space have also commenced or been completed in Atlantic City. Some of these recent projects include:

 

   

In 2004, Boyd Gaming and MGM Mirage announced multiple expansions of the Borgata Hotel and Casino which previously featured a 40 story hotel with approximately 2,000 rooms and suites, a 135,000 square foot casino and over 4,000 slot machines, restaurants, retail shops, a spa and pool, and entertainment venues. The expansions will add an additional 500,000 square feet to the facility, including more gaming, retail and restaurant space, two additional nightclubs and a new hotel tower, containing approximately 200 luxury time-share condominiums and approximately 600 guest rooms, a new spa, two swimming pools and additional meeting room space. In June 2006, the first phase of the expansion project opened to the public, featuring three new signature restaurants, an upscale food court, 500 slot machines, 45 table games, an 85-table poker room and a new nightclub. The next phase of the expansion, including the new hotel tower described above, is scheduled to open in the third quarter of 2008.

 

   

MGM Mirage Inc. announced in October 2007 it will spend up to $5.0 billion to build a three tower 3,000 room casino resort, planned to open in 2012. The MGM Grand Atlantic City will be built on a 72-acre site next to the Borgata, which is MGM Mirage’s joint venture with Boyd Gaming Corp. The new resort would offer the largest casino floor in Atlantic City, with 5,000 slot machines, 200 table games and a poker room. Plans also call for a 1,500-seat theater, restaurants, nightclubs, a spa, 500,000 square feet of retail space and a convention center.

 

   

Harrah’s Entertainment Inc. has completed construction on The Pier at Caesars, a $145.0 million upscale retail, dining, and entertainment facility located on the Atlantic City Boardwalk, attached to the Caesars Atlantic City by skywalk. In July 2006, Morgan Stanley Gaming Cos. Holdings, a subsidiary of Morgan Stanley, purchased a 20 acre parcel located on the Atlantic City Boardwalk for $74.0 million. Morgan Stanley has hired Revel Entertainment Group to build a $2.0 billion casino resort on this parcel, which will be adjacent to the Showboat, owned by Harrah’s Entertainment. In September 2006, Wallace Barr, former Chief Executive Officer of Caesar’s Entertainment Inc., and Curtis Bashaw, former executive director of the New Jersey Casino Reinvestment Development Authority, entered into an agreement to purchase an 11-acre site on the southern edge of the Atlantic City Boardwalk for $85.0 million. Reports indicate Mr. Barr and Mr. Bashaw plan to develop a new casino on this site.

 

   

On November 11, 2006, Sands Atlantic City Hotel and Casino was closed in conjunction with the purchase by Pinnacle Entertainment Inc. of the company that owns the Sands, and the facility was imploded in October 2007. It is anticipated that the Sands will be replaced by a new mega-resort casino-hotel reportedly costing in excess of $1.5 billion, with construction beginning in mid-2008, scheduled to open in 2012.

In addition, the state legislature has considered adding slot machines or VLTs at the state racetracks.

 

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There are no federally recognized Indian tribes in the state; however, at least one state tribe, the Unalachtigo Band of the Nanticoke Lenni Lenape Nation, is reportedly seeking federal recognition and possible casino gaming.

Maine

There are no full-scale casino gaming operations allowed in Maine other than one cruise boat that operates out of Maine and provides casino gaming off-shore. There are four federally recognized tribes in Maine, one of which, the Penobscot Tribe, operates a high stakes bingo facility in Old Town, in east central Maine. The Penobscot Tribe and the Passamaquoddy Tribe are attempting to gain approval for full-scale casino operations at various locations in Maine; however, to date these efforts have been unsuccessful. None of the other federally recognized tribes in Maine have negotiated a tribal-state compact or otherwise taken significant steps of developing casino operations.

In November 2005, Penn National Gaming, Inc. opened a temporary slot machine facility in Bangor, Maine, featuring 475 slot machines, with plans to construct a $71.0 million permanent facility that would have a total of approximately 1,500 slot machines.

In August 2006, the members of the Maine Gambling Control Board adopted a nonbinding resolution calling for a moratorium on any expansion of gambling in the state.

In November 2007, Maine voters rejected a proposal by the Passamaquoddy Tribe to build a racetrack, high stakes bingo parlor, hotel and casino with 1,500 slot machines on 700 acres in Calais, along the St. Croix River and border with New Brunswick, Canada.

New Hampshire

There are no casinos allowed in New Hampshire and no significant initiatives currently underway to legalize commercial casino gaming. Over the past several years, a number of legislative initiatives to expand legalized gambling activities in New Hampshire have been defeated. There are no federally recognized Indian tribes in the state and no petitions for recognition pending.

Vermont

There are no casinos allowed in Vermont and no significant legislative initiatives currently underway to allow commercial casino gaming. There are no federally recognized tribes in Vermont. On June 22, 2007, the BIA issued a final determination rejecting a petition for federal recognition from the St. Francis/Sokoki Band of Abenakis in Swanton. On October 10, 2007, the IBIA dismissed as untimely the tribe’s request for reconsideration of that final determination.

Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs

The following is an assessment of the competitive prospects in Pennsylvania and the northeastern United States affecting Pocono Downs:

In July 2004, Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell signed the Pennsylvania Race Horse and Development and Gaming Act, or the Pennsylvania Gaming Act, permitting up to 61,000 slot machines at 14 locations throughout the state. The Pennsylvania Gaming Act authorized slot machines at seven harness and thoroughbred racetracks, and five stand-alone slot facilities. Each of the facilities may initially install up to 3,000 slot machines and can be expanded to up to 5,000 slot machines after six months of operation and upon gaining the approval of the PGCB. In addition, the legislation authorized two resort facilities with up to 500 slot machines. The Pennsylvania Gaming Act also includes prohibitions against locating facilities in close proximity to other operations, including,

 

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among other things, a prohibition against locating another harness or thoroughbred facility with slots or a stand-alone slot facility within 20 linear miles of Pocono Downs, and a prohibition against locating a resort facility within 15 linear miles of Pocono Downs.

Slot machine licenses have been awarded to all owners of the six existing racetracks: Philadelphia Park located in Bensalem (approximately 115 miles southeast of Pocono Downs), Penn National Race Course in Grantville (located approximately 85 miles southwest of Pocono Downs), Presque Isle Downs in Summit Township, near Erie (approximately 325 miles from Pocono Downs) and two harness racetracks, the Meadows, located in Meadow Lands, near Pittsburgh (approximately 300 miles from Pocono Downs), and Harrah’s Chester Casino and Racetrack, located in Chester (approximately 115 miles from Pocono Downs). In addition, it is expected that a slot machine license will be awarded to Centaur, Inc., which is currently building Valley View Downs in Lawrence County, near Pittsburgh.

The PGCB has awarded conditional Category Two slot machine licenses for five stand-alone slot facilities, two of which are located in Philadelphia and one of which is located in Pittsburgh. The remaining two facilities selected, which are located closer to Pocono Downs and are more likely to have an impact on our Pocono Downs operations, are as follows:

 

   

Mount Airy, LLC was approved for a conditional Category Two slot machine license to operate a slot machine parlor at the former Mount Airy Lodge in Mount Pocono, which is approximately 40 miles from Pocono Downs. In October 2007, Mount Airy, LLC opened its $412.0 million Mount Airy Resort and Casino, which includes approximately 2,300 slot machines. In November 2007, the facility introduced a 188-room hotel and is expected to open Gypsies Lounge Nightclub in late 2007. Reports indicate that by the end of 2008, the facility will be expanded to have 3,000 slot machines, 400 hotel rooms, four restaurants, a night club, conference rooms, a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, retail shops and additional parking.

 

   

Sands Bethworks Gaming, a partnership between BethWorks and Las Vegas Sands, Inc., owner of the Venetian Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, was approved for a conditional Category Two slot machine license to operate a gaming facility in Bethlehem, which is approximately 70 miles from Pocono Downs. The group has indicated plans for a $630.0 million Phase I project that would offer 3,000 slot machines, a new 300-room hotel, retail shops and restaurants to the public by the spring of 2009 and a future expansion that would increase the total number of slot machines to 5,000 by late 2009.

In addition to the other slot facilities in Pennsylvania, Pocono Downs faces competition from a VLT gaming facility at Monticello Raceway in Monticello, New York in the Catskills, which features a reported 1,500 VLTs, and any full scale casino gaming operation that is ultimately developed by an Indian tribe in the Catskills region. The Catskills are approximately 90 miles from Pocono Downs. Pocono Downs also could face competition from Tioga Downs Racetrack in Nichols, New York, approximately 100 miles from Pocono Downs. On June 9, 2006, Tioga Downs opened its racetrack after renovations, and on July 4, 2006, the track opened its new gaming floor, which includes 750 video lottery terminals.

Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut

General

The Tribe has lived in a cohesive community for hundreds of years in what is today southeastern Connecticut, and became a federally recognized Indian tribe in 1994. The Tribe currently has approximately 1,700 members including 1,000 adult voting members. The Tribe historically has cooperated with the United States and is proud of the fact that members of the Tribe have fought on the side of the United States in every war from the Revolutionary War to the War in Iraq. The Tribe believes that this philosophy of cooperation exemplifies its approach to developing Mohegan Sun and pursuing diversification of its business interests.

 

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Although the Tribe is a sovereign entity, it has sought to work with, and to gain the support of, local communities in establishing Mohegan Sun. For example, the Tribe settled its claim to extensive tracts of land that had been guaranteed by various treaties in consideration for certain arrangements in the Mohegan Compact. As a result, local residents and businesses whose property values had been clouded by this dispute were able to gain clear title to their property. In addition, the Tribe has been sensitive to the concerns of the local community in developing Mohegan Sun. This philosophy of cooperation has enabled the Tribe to build a solid alliance among local, state and federal officials to achieve its goal of economic development through the success of Mohegan Sun and other projects.

Governance of the Tribe

The Tribe’s Constitution provides for the governance of the Tribe by a Tribal Council consisting of nine members, and a Council of Elders consisting of seven members. The registered voters of the Tribe elect all members of the Tribal Council and the Council of Elders. As the result of an amendment to the Tribe’s Constitution in September 2003, the members of both the Council of Elders and the Tribal Council are elected on a staggered term basis. Effective with the elections for the Council of Elders held in October 2004 and 2006, members of the Council of Elders serve four-year terms. The terms for four members of the Council of Elders will expire in October 2008 and the remaining three members will expire in October 2010. Likewise, effective with the elections for the Tribal Council members held in August 2005 and 2007, members of the Tribal Council also serve four-year terms. The terms for five members of the Tribal Council will expire in October 2009 and the remaining four members will expire in October 2011. Members of the Tribal Council must be at least 21 when elected, and members of the Council of Elders must be at least 55 when elected. The members of the Tribal Council also serve as members on our Management Board.

The Tribe’s Constitution vests all legislative and executive powers of the Tribe in the Tribal Council, with the exception of the enrollment of Tribal members and cultural duties, which are vested in the Council of Elders. The powers of the Tribal Council include the power to establish an executive branch departmental structure with agencies and subdivisions and to delegate appropriate powers to such agencies and sub-divisions.

The Tribe may amend the provisions of its Constitution that established us and the Gaming Disputes Court, which is described below. Such an amendment requires the approval of two-thirds of the members of the Tribal Council and must be ratified by a vote of a two-thirds majority of all votes cast, with at least 40% of the registered voters of the Tribe voting. In addition, the Tribe’s Constitution currently prohibits the Tribe from enacting any law that would impair the obligations of contracts entered into in furtherance of the development, construction, operation and promotion of gaming on Tribal lands. An amendment to this provision requires the affirmative vote of 75% of all registered voters of the Tribe. Prior to the enactment of any such amendment by the Tribal Council, any non-Tribal party would have the opportunity to seek a ruling from the Appellate Branch of the Gaming Disputes Court that the proposed amendment would constitute an impermissible impairment of contract.

The Council of Elders acts in the capacity of an appellate court of final review and may hear appeals of any case or controversy arising under the Tribe’s Constitution, except those matters related to Mohegan Sun, which are required to be submitted to the Gaming Disputes Court.

Gaming Disputes Court

The Tribal Council has established the Gaming Disputes Court by Tribal ordinance and vested it with exclusive jurisdiction over all disputes related to gaming at Mohegan Sun and over appeals of certain final decisions issued by the Tribe’s administrative agencies. The Gaming Disputes Court is composed of a Trial Division and an Appellate Branch. A single judge presides over cases at the trial level. Trial Division decisions can be appealed to the Appellate Branch where cases are presided over by three judges, one of whom will be the Chief Judge, and none of whom will have presided at the Trial Division over the specific case being heard. Decisions of the Appellate Branch are final, and no further appeal is available.

 

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The Gaming Disputes Court has jurisdiction over all disputes or controversies related to gaming between any person or entity and us or the Tribe. The Gaming Disputes Court also has jurisdiction over certain appeals arising out of tribal agency regulatory powers, including licensing actions. The Tribe has adopted the substantive law of the State of Connecticut as the applicable law of the Gaming Disputes Court to the extent that such law is not in conflict with Mohegan Tribal Law. Also, the Tribe has adopted all of Connecticut’s rules of civil and appellate procedure and professional and judicial conduct to govern the Gaming Disputes Court.

Judges of the Gaming Disputes Court are chosen by the Tribal Council from a publicly available list of eligible retired federal judges and Connecticut Attorney Trial Referees, who are appointed by the Chief Justice of the Connecticut Supreme Court, each of whom must remain licensed to practice law in the State of Connecticut.

Judges are selected sequentially as cases are filed with the clerk of the Gaming Disputes Court. The Chief Judge of the Gaming Disputes Court, who serves as the Gaming Disputes Court’s administrative superintendent, is chosen by the Tribal Council from the list of eligible judges and serves a five-year term. The remaining judges may serve an unlimited term on the bench. Judges of the Gaming Disputes Court are subject to discipline and removal for cause pursuant to the rules of the Gaming Disputes Court. The Chief Judge is vested with the sole authority to revise the rules of the Gaming Disputes Court. Judges are compensated by the Tribe at an agreed rate of pay commensurate with their duties and responsibilities. Such rate cannot be diminished during a judge’s tenure.

Below is a description of certain information regarding judges currently serving on the Gaming Disputes Court:

Paul M. Guernsey, Chief Judge. Age: 57. Judge Guernsey has served on the Gaming Disputes Court since 1996. He was appointed Acting Chief Judge in November 1999 and appointed as Chief Judge in January 2000. Judge Guernsey has also served as Fact Finder for the New London Judicial District from 1990 to 1992 and as State of Connecticut Attorney Trial Referee, Judicial District of New London, since 1992.

F. Owen Eagan, Judge. Age: 77. Judge Eagan was appointed to the Gaming Disputes Court in 1996. He served as U.S. Magistrate Judge from 1975 to 1996 and was formerly Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut and U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut. He is currently an adjunct law faculty member at Western New England School, a position he has held since 1978.

Frank A. Manfredi, Judge. Age: 56. Judge Manfredi was appointed to the Gaming Disputes Court in 2001. He has been a partner at Cotter, Greenfield, Manfredi & Lanes, P.C. since 1983. Judge Manfredi has also served as State of Connecticut Attorney Trial Referee since 1993, State of Connecticut Attorney Fact Finder since 1992 and Town Attorney for the Town of Preston since 1988.

Thomas B. Wilson, Judge. Age: 67. Judge Wilson was appointed to the Gaming Disputes Court in 1996. Judge Wilson served as a partner and director at Suisman, Shapiro, Wool, Brennan & Gray, P.C. from 1967-2003. Judge Wilson has also served as State Attorney Trial Referee since 1988 and as Town Attorney for the Town of Ledyard from 1971 to 1979, 1983 to 1991 and 1995 to the present.

Workers Compensation Department

Effective September 1, 2004, the Tribal Council established a Workers Compensation Department that oversees a self-administered workers compensation program for employees of the Tribe and us. Prior to the formation of this department, we participated in the State of Connecticut workers compensation program. Duties of the Workers Compensation Department, including judgment on claims, are performed by two commissioners employed by the Tribe.

 

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Below is a description of certain information regarding the commissioners serving in the Workers Compensation Department:

Giancarlo Rossi, Chief Commissioner. Mr. Rossi was appointed Chief Commissioner of the Tribe’s Workers Compensation Department in September 2004. Mr. Rossi is a practicing attorney with over 20 years of workers compensation experience in Connecticut.

Louis M. Pacelli, Commissioner. Mr. Pacelli was appointed Commissioner of the Tribe’s Workers Compensation Department in September 2004. Mr. Pacelli is a partner in the law firm of Grillo and Pacelli, LLC in East Haven, Connecticut and has practiced general law, including workers compensation matters, for over 20 years in Connecticut.

Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority

We were established by the Tribe in July 1995 with the exclusive power to conduct and regulate gaming activities on tribal lands for the Tribe and the non-exclusive authority to conduct such activities elsewhere. We are governed by a nine-member Management Board, whose members also comprise the Mohegan Tribal Council (the governing body of the Tribe). Any change in the composition of the Mohegan Tribal Council results in a corresponding change in our Management Board. See “—Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut” and “Part III. Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant.”

We have three major functions. The first major function is to direct the operation, management and promotion of gaming enterprises on tribal lands and all related activities. The second major function is to regulate gaming activities on tribal lands. Our Management Board has appointed an independent Director of Regulation to be responsible for the regulation of gaming activities at Mohegan Sun. The Director of Regulation serves at the will of the Management Board and ensures the integrity of the gaming operation through the promulgation and enforcement of appropriate regulations. The Director of Regulation and his staff also are responsible for performing background investigations and licensing of non-gaming employees as well as vendors seeking to provide non-gaming products or services within the casino. Pursuant to the Mohegan Compact, the State of Connecticut is responsible for performing background investigations and licensing of gaming employees as well as gaming vendors seeking to provide gaming products or services within the casino. The third major function is to identify and evaluate various diversification opportunities in conjunction with the Tribe. These opportunities primarily include the management and ownership of, or investments in, other gaming enterprises through direct investment, acquisition, joint venture arrangements and loan transactions.

Government Regulation

General

Our operations at Mohegan Sun are subject to certain federal, state and tribal laws applicable to both commercial relationships with Indians generally and to Indian gaming and the management and financing of Indian casinos specifically. In addition, our operations there, as well as our slot machine operations in Pennsylvania at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs, are subject to federal and state laws applicable to the gaming industry generally and to the distribution of gaming equipment. Our operations at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs also are subject to Pennsylvania laws and regulations applicable to harness racing and simulcasting as well as the slot machine gaming commenced there in 2006. The following description of the regulatory environment in which gaming takes place and in which we operate is only a summary and not a complete recitation of all applicable law. Moreover, since this regulatory environment is susceptible to changes in public policy considerations, it is impossible to predict how particular provisions will be interpreted from time to time or whether they will remain intact. Changes in such laws could have a material adverse impact on our operations. See “—Risk Factors.”

 

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Tribal Law and Legal Systems

Applicability of State and Federal Law

Federally recognized Indian tribes are independent governments, subordinate to the United States, with sovereign powers, except as those powers may have been limited by treaty or by the United States Congress. The power of Indian tribes to enact their own laws to regulate gaming derives from the exercise of this tribal sovereignty. Indian tribes maintain their own governmental systems and often their own judicial systems. Indian tribes have the right to tax persons and enterprises conducting business on tribal lands, and also have the right to require licenses and to impose other forms of regulations and regulatory fees on persons and businesses operating on their lands.

Absent the consent of the Tribe or action of the United States Congress, the laws of the State of Connecticut do not apply to us or the Tribe. Under the federal law that recognizes the Tribe, the Tribe consented to, among other things, the extension of Connecticut criminal law and Connecticut state traffic controls over Mohegan Sun.

Waiver of Sovereign Immunity; Jurisdiction; Exhaustion of Tribal Remedies

Indian tribes enjoy sovereign immunity from unconsented suit similar to that of the states and the United States. In order to sue an Indian tribe (or an agency or instrumentality of an Indian tribe, such as us), the tribe must have effectively waived its sovereign immunity with respect to the matter in dispute. Further, in most commercial disputes with Indian tribes, the jurisdiction of the federal courts, which are courts of limited jurisdiction, may be difficult or impossible to obtain. A commercial dispute is unlikely to present a federal question, and some courts have ruled that an Indian tribe as a party is not a citizen of any state for purposes of establishing diversity jurisdiction in the federal courts. State courts also may lack jurisdiction over suits brought by non-Indians against Indian tribes in Connecticut. The remedies available against an Indian tribe also depend, at least in part, upon the rules of comity requiring initial exhaustion of remedies in tribal tribunals and, as to some judicial remedies, the tribe’s consent to jurisdictional provisions contained in the disputed agreements. The United States Supreme Court has held that, where a tribal court exists, jurisdiction in that forum first must be exhausted before any dispute can be heard properly by federal courts which otherwise would have jurisdiction. Where a dispute as to the jurisdiction of the tribal forum exists, the tribal court first must rule as to the limits of its own jurisdiction.

In connection with some of our contractual arrangements, including our outstanding indebtedness, we, the Tribe, MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, Mohegan Golf and, to the extent applicable, the Pocono Downs entities, WTG and MTGA Gaming have agreed to waive our and their respective sovereign immunity from unconsented suit to permit any court of competent jurisdiction to (1) enforce and interpret the terms of our applicable outstanding indebtedness, and award and enforce the award of damages owing as a consequence of a breach thereof, whether such award is the product of litigation, administrative proceedings, or arbitration; (2) determine whether any consent or approval of the Tribe or us has been granted improperly or withheld unreasonably; (3) enforce any judgment prohibiting the Tribe or us from taking any action, or mandating or obligating the Tribe or us to take any action, including a judgment compelling the Tribe or us to submit to binding arbitration; and (4) adjudicate any claim under the Indian Civil Rights Act of 1968, 25 U.S.C. 1302 (or any successor statute).

The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988

Regulatory Authority

The operation of casinos and of all gaming on Indian land is subject to IGRA, which is administered by the NIGC, an independent agency within the United States Department of the Interior, which exercises primary federal regulatory responsibility over Indian gaming. The NIGC has exclusive authority to issue regulations governing tribal gaming activities, approve tribal ordinances for regulating Class II and Class III Gaming (as described below), approve management agreements for gaming facilities, conduct investigations and generally

monitor tribal gaming. Certain responsibilities under IGRA (such as the approval of per capita distribution plans

 

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to tribal members and the approval of transfer of lands into trust status for gaming) are retained by the BIA. The BIA also has responsibility to review and approve land leases and other agreements relating to Indian lands. Criminal enforcement is the exclusive responsibility of the United States Department of Justice, except to the extent such enforcement responsibility is shared with the State of Connecticut under the Mohegan Compact and under the federal law that recognizes the Tribe.

The NIGC is empowered to inspect and audit all Indian gaming facilities, to conduct background checks on all persons associated with Class II Gaming, to hold hearings, issue subpoenas, take depositions, adopt regulations and assess fees and impose civil penalties for violations of IGRA. IGRA also prohibits illegal gaming on Indian land and theft from Indian gaming facilities. The NIGC has adopted rules implementing specific provisions of IGRA, which govern, among other things, the submission and approval of tribal gaming ordinances or resolutions and require an Indian tribe to have the sole proprietary interest in and responsibility for the conduct of any gaming. Tribes are required to issue gaming licenses only under articulated standards, to conduct or commission financial audits of their gaming enterprises, to perform or commission background investigations for primary management officials and key employees and to maintain their facilities in a manner that adequately protects the environment and the public health and safety. These rules also set out review and reporting procedures for tribal licensing of gaming operation employees.

Additionally, the NIGC established the Minimum Internal Control Standards, or MICS, that require each tribe or its designated tribal government body or agency to establish and implement tribal MICS by February 4, 2000. We established and implemented tribal MICS on February 4, 2000. As of September 30, 2007, we believe we were in material compliance with the tribal MICS.

Tribal Ordinances

Under IGRA, except to the extent otherwise provided in a tribal-state compact, Indian tribal governments have primary regulatory authority over Class III Gaming on land within a tribe’s jurisdiction. Therefore, our gaming operations, and persons engaged in gaming activities, are guided by and subject to the provisions of the Tribe’s ordinances and regulations regarding gaming.

IGRA requires that the NIGC review tribal gaming ordinances and authorizes the NIGC to approve such ordinances only if they meet specific requirements relating to (1) the ownership, security, personnel background, record keeping and auditing of a tribe’s gaming enterprises; (2) the use of the revenues from such gaming; and (3) the protection of the environment and the public health and safety. The Tribe adopted its gaming ordinance in July 1994, and the NIGC approved the gaming ordinance in November 1994.

Classes of Gaming

IGRA classifies games that may be conducted on Indian lands into three categories. “Class I Gaming” includes social games solely for prizes of minimal value or traditional forms of Indian gaming engaged in by individuals as part of, or in connection with, tribal ceremonies or celebrations. “Class II Gaming” includes bingo, pull-tabs, lotto, punch boards, tip jars, certain non-banked card games (if such games are played legally elsewhere in the state), instant bingo and other games similar to bingo, if those games are played at the same location where bingo is played. “Class III Gaming” includes all other forms of gaming, such as slot machines, video casino games (e.g., video blackjack and video poker), so-called “table games” (e.g., blackjack, craps and roulette) and other commercial gaming (e.g., sports betting and pari-mutuel wagering).

Class I Gaming on Indian lands is within the exclusive jurisdiction of the Indian tribes and is not subject to IGRA. Class II Gaming is permitted on Indian lands if (1) the state in which the Indian lands lie permits such gaming for any purpose by any person, organization or entity; (2) the gaming is not otherwise specifically prohibited on Indian lands by federal law; (3) the gaming is conducted in accordance with a tribal ordinance or resolution which has been approved by the NIGC; (4) an Indian tribe has sole proprietary interest and

 

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responsibility for the conduct of gaming; (5) the primary management officials and key employees are tribally licensed; and (6) several other requirements are met. Class III Gaming is permitted on Indian lands if the conditions applicable to Class II Gaming are met and, in addition, the gaming is conducted in conformance with the terms of a tribal-state compact (a written agreement between the tribal government and the government of the state within whose boundaries the tribe’s lands lie).

With the growth of the Internet and other modern advances, computers and other technology aids are increasingly used to conduct specific kinds of gaming. The United States Congress has considered legislation that limits and/or prohibits gaming conducted over the Internet. On September 30, 2006, the United States Congress passed legislation restricting Internet gambling by prohibiting the use of credit cards, checks and electronic fund transfers for online gaming. The legislation was signed into law by the President of the United States on October 13, 2006.

Tribal-State Compacts

IGRA requires states to negotiate in good faith with Indian tribes that seek to enter into tribal-state compacts for the conduct of Class III Gaming. Such tribal-state compacts may include provisions for the allocation of criminal and civil jurisdiction between the state and the Indian tribe necessary for the enforcement of such laws and regulations, taxation by the Indian tribe of gaming activities in amounts comparable to those amounts assessed by the state for comparable activities, remedies for breach of compacts, standards for the operation of gaming and maintenance of the gaming facility, including licensing and any other subjects that are directly related to the operation of gaming activities. While the terms of tribal-state compacts vary from state to state, compacts within one state tend to be substantially similar. Tribal-state compacts usually specify the types of permitted games, establish technical standards for gaming, set maximum and minimum machine payout percentages, entitle the state to inspect casinos, require background investigations and licensing of casino employees and may require the tribe to pay a portion of the state’s expenses for establishing and maintaining regulatory agencies. Some tribal-state compacts are for set terms, while others are for indefinite duration.

IGRA provides that if an Indian tribe and state fail to successfully negotiate a tribal-state compact, the United States Department of the Interior may approve gaming procedures pursuant to which Class III gaming may be conducted on Indian lands. The Mohegan Compact, approved by the United States Secretary of the Interior in 1994, does not have a specific term and will remain in effect until terminated by written agreement of both parties, or the provisions are modified as a result of a change in applicable law. Our gaming operations are subject to the requirements and restrictions contained in the Mohegan Compact which authorizes the Tribe to conduct most forms of Class III Gaming.

Tribal-state compacts have been the subject of litigation in a number of states, including Alabama, California, Florida, Kansas, Michigan, Mississippi, New Mexico, New York, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin. Tribes frequently seek to enforce the constitutionality of the provision of IGRA which entitles tribes to bring suit in federal court against a state that fails to negotiate a tribal-state compact in good faith. The United States Supreme Court resolved this issue by holding that the Indian Commerce Clause does not grant Congress authority to abrogate sovereign immunity granted to the states under the Eleventh Amendment. Accordingly, IGRA does not grant jurisdiction over a state that did not consent to be sued.

There has been litigation in a number of states challenging the authority of state governors, under state law, to enter into tribal-state compacts without legislative approval. Federal courts have upheld such authority in Louisiana and Mississippi. The highest state courts of Arizona, Kansas, Michigan, New Mexico, New York and Rhode Island have held that the governors of those states did not have authority to enter into such compacts without the consent or authorization of the legislatures of those states. In the New Mexico and Kansas cases, the courts held that the authority to enter into such compacts is a legislative function under their respective state constitutions. The court in the New Mexico case also held that state law does not permit casino-style gaming.

 

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In Connecticut, there has been no litigation challenging the governor’s authority to enter into tribal-state compacts. If such a suit were filed, however, the Tribe does not believe that the precedent in the New Mexico or Kansas cases would apply and believes that such an action would likely be barred by applicable statutes of limitation. The Connecticut Attorney General has issued a formal opinion, which states that “existing [state] statutes provide the Governor with the authority to negotiate and execute the . . . [Mohegan] Compact.” Thus, the Attorney General declined to follow the Kansas case. In addition, the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit has held, in a case brought by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe, that Connecticut law authorizes casino gaming. After execution of the Mohegan Compact, the Connecticut General Assembly passed a law requiring that future gaming compacts be approved by the legislature, but that law does not apply to previously executed compacts such as the Mohegan Compact.

Possible Changes in Federal Law

Several bills have been introduced in the United States Congress, which would amend IGRA. While there have been a number of technical amendments to the law, to date there have been no material changes to IGRA. Any amendment of IGRA could change the regulatory environment and requirements within which the Tribe could conduct gaming.

Pennsylvania Racing Regulation

Our harness racing operations at Pocono Downs are subject to extensive regulation under the Pennsylvania Racing Act. Under that law, the Pennsylvania Harness Racing Commission, or Harness Racing Commission, is responsible for, among other things:

 

   

granting permission annually to maintain racing licenses and schedule races;

 

   

approving, after a public hearing, the opening of additional OTWs and racetracks;

 

   

approving simulcasting activities;

 

   

licensing all officers, directors, racing officials and certain other employees of a company; and

 

   

approving all contracts entered into by a company affecting racing, pari-mutuel wagering, phone/internet wagering and OTW operations.

As in most states, the regulations and oversight applicable to our operations in Pennsylvania are intended primarily to safeguard the legitimacy of the sport and its freedom from inappropriate or criminal influences. The Harness Racing Commission has broad authority to regulate in the best interests of racing and may, to that end, disapprove the involvement of certain personnel in our operations, deny approval of certain acquisitions following their consummation or withhold permission for a proposed OTW site for a variety of reasons, including community opposition. The Pennsylvania legislature also has reserved the right to revoke the power of the Harness Racing Commission to approve additional OTWs and could, at any time, terminate pari-mutuel wagering as a form of legalized gaming in Pennsylvania or subject such wagering to additional restrictive regulation or taxation.

We have obtained permission from the Harness Racing Commission to conduct live racing at Pocono Downs and to operate the several OTWs that we own. The Harness Racing Commission can refuse to grant permission to continue to operate existing facilities.

Pennsylvania Gaming Regulations

Our slot machine operations at Pocono Downs are subject to extensive regulation under the Pennsylvania Gaming Act. Under that law, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, or PGCB, is responsible for, among other things:

 

   

granting permission annually to maintain existing slot machine licenses;

 

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approving, after a public hearing, the granting of additional slot machine licenses (to the extent allowed under the Pennsylvania Gaming Act);

 

   

licensing all officers, directors, gaming officials and certain other employees of a company with slot machine operations; and

 

   

approving all contracts entered into by a company affecting slot machine operations.

As in most states, the regulations and oversight applicable to our operations in Pennsylvania are intended primarily to safeguard the legitimacy of gaming and its freedom from inappropriate or criminal influences. The PGCB has broad authority to regulate in the best interests of gaming and may, to that end, disapprove the involvement of certain personnel in our operations, deny approval of certain acquisitions following their consummation or withhold permission on applicable gaming matters for a variety of reasons. In addition, many of the regulations currently issued by the PGCB are temporary in nature and there is no guarantee that permanent regulations, when issued, will follow the form or content of the temporary regulations currently in effect.

Material Agreements

The following is a summary of the material terms of several of our and the Tribe’s material agreements. This summary does not restate these agreements in their entirety. We urge you to read these agreements because they, and not these summaries, define our rights and obligations and the rights and obligations of the Tribe. Copies of these agreements are included as exhibits to this Form 10-K.

Gaming Compact with the State of Connecticut

In April 1994, the Tribe and the State of Connecticut entered into a gaming compact to authorize and regulate the Tribe’s conduct of gaming on the Tribe’s land in Connecticut. The Mohegan Compact has a perpetual term and is substantively similar to the procedures that govern gaming operations of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe in Connecticut and provide, among other things, as follows:

(1) The Tribe is authorized to conduct on its reservation those Class III gaming activities specifically enumerated in the Mohegan Compact or amendments thereto. The forms of Class III gaming authorized under the Mohegan Compact include (a) specific types of games of chance, (b) video facsimiles of such authorized games of chance (i.e., slot machines), (c) off-track pari-mutuel betting on animal races, (d) pari-mutuel betting, through simulcasting, on animal races and (e) certain other types of pari-mutuel betting on games and races conducted at the gaming facility (some types of which currently are, together with off-track pari-mutuel telephone betting on animal races, under a moratorium).

(2) The Tribe must establish standards of operations and management of all gaming operations in order to protect the public interest, ensure the fair and honest operation of gaming activities and maintain the integrity of all Class III gaming activities conducted on the Tribe’s lands. The first of such standards was set forth in the Mohegan Compact and approved by the State of Connecticut gaming agency. State of Connecticut gaming agency approval is required for any revision to such standards. The Tribe must supervise the implementation of these standards by regulation through a Tribal gaming agency.

(3) Criminal law enforcement matters relating to Class III gaming activities are under the concurrent jurisdiction of the State of Connecticut and the Tribe.

(4) All gaming employees must obtain and maintain a gaming employee license issued by the State of Connecticut gaming agency.

(5) Any enterprise providing gaming services or gaming equipment to the Tribe is required to hold a valid, current gaming services registration issued by the State of Connecticut gaming agency.

(6) The State of Connecticut annually assesses the Tribe for the costs attributable to its regulation of the Tribe’s gaming operations and for the provision of law enforcement at the Tribe’s gaming facility.

 

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(7) Net revenues from the Tribe’s gaming operations may be applied only for purposes related to Tribal government operations and general welfare, Tribal economic development, charitable contributions and payments to local governmental agencies.

(8) Tribal ordinances and regulations governing health and safety standards at the gaming facilities may be no less rigorous than the applicable laws and regulations of the State of Connecticut.

(9) Service of alcoholic beverages within any gaming facility is subject to regulation by the State of Connecticut.

(10) The Tribe waives any defense which it may have by virtue of sovereign immunity with respect to any action brought in United States District Court to enforce the Mohegan Compact.

In May 1994, the Tribe and the State of Connecticut entered into a memorandum of understanding, or MOU, which sets forth certain matters regarding the implementation of the Mohegan Compact. The MOU stipulates that a portion of the revenues earned on slot machines must be paid to the State of Connecticut. This payment is known as the slot win contribution. For each 12-month period commencing July 1, 1995, the slot win contribution shall be the lesser of (a) 30% of gross revenues from slot machines, or (b) the greater of (i) 25% of gross revenues from slot machines or (ii) $80.0 million. The slot win contribution payments will not be required if the State of Connecticut legalizes any other gaming operations with slot machines or other commercial casino games within the State of Connecticut except those operations consented to by the Tribe and the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe.

Agreement with the Town of Montville

On June 16, 1994, the Tribe and the Town of Montville entered into an agreement whereby the Tribe agreed to pay to the town $500,000 annually to minimize the impact on the town resulting from the decreased tax revenues on reservation land held in trust. The Tribe assigned its rights and obligations in the agreement with the Town of Montville to us.

Land Lease from the Tribe to the Authority

Mohegan Sun is located upon land that is held in trust for the Tribe by the United States. We entered into a land lease with the Tribe under which the Tribe leases to us the property and all buildings, improvements and related facilities constructed or installed on the property. The lease was approved by the Secretary of the Interior on, and became effective as of, September 29, 1995. Summarized below are several key provisions of this lease. See also “Part I. Item 2. Properties.”

Term

The term of the lease is 25 years with an option, exercisable by us, to extend the term for one additional 25-year period. Upon the termination of the lease, we will be required to surrender to the Tribe possession of the property and improvements, excluding any equipment, furniture, trade fixtures or other personal property.

Rent and Other Operating Expenses

We are required to pay to the Tribe a nominal annual rental fee. For any period when the Tribe or another agency or instrumentality of the Tribe is not the tenant under the lease, the rent will be eight percent of the tenant’s gross revenues from the premises. We are responsible for the payment of all costs of owning, operating, constructing, maintaining, repairing, replacing and insuring the leased property.

 

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Use of Leased Property

We may use the leased property and improvements solely for the construction and operation of Mohegan Sun, unless prior approval is obtained from the Tribe for any proposed alternative use. Similarly, no construction or alteration of any building or improvement located on the leased property by us may be made unless complete and final plans and specifications have been approved by the Tribe. Following foreclosure of any mortgage on our interest under the lease or any transfer of such interest to the holder of such mortgage in lieu of foreclosure, the leased property and improvements may be used for any lawful purpose, subject only to applicable codes and governmental regulations; provided, however, that a non-Indian holder of the leased property may not conduct gaming operations on the property.

Permitted Mortgages and Rights of Permitted Mortgages

We may not mortgage, pledge or otherwise encumber our leasehold estate in the leased property except to a holder of a permitted mortgage. Under the lease, a “permitted mortgage” includes the leasehold mortgage securing our obligations under the new credit facility granted by us that provides, among other things, that (1) the Tribe will have the right to notice of, and to cure, any default by us, (2) the Tribe will have the right to prior notice of an intention by the holder to foreclose on the permitted mortgage and the right to purchase the mortgage in lieu of any foreclosure and (3) the permitted mortgage is subject and subordinated to any and all access and utility easements granted by the Tribe under the lease. As provided in the lease, each holder of a permitted mortgage has the right to notice of any default by us under the lease and the opportunity to cure such default within any applicable cure period.

Default Remedies

We will be in default under the lease if, subject to the notice provisions, we fail to make lease payments or to comply with our covenants under the lease or if we pledge, encumber or convey our interest in the lease in violation of the terms of the lease. Following a default, the Tribe may, with approval from the United States Secretary of the Interior, terminate the lease unless a permitted mortgage remains outstanding with respect to the leased property. In that case, the Tribe may not (1) terminate the lease or our right to possession of the leased property, (2) exercise any right of re-entry, (3) take possession of and/or relet the leased property or any portion thereof or (4) enforce any other right or remedy which may materially and adversely affect the rights of the holder of the permitted mortgage, unless the default triggering such rights was a monetary default which such holder failed to cure after notice.

Priority Distribution Agreement with the Tribe

On August 1, 2001, we entered into a priority distribution agreement with the Tribe, which obligates us to make monthly payments to the Tribe to the extent of our net cash flows, as defined in the priority distribution agreement. The priority distribution agreement, which has a perpetual term, also clarifies and records the terms pursuant to which we made such payments to the Tribe prior to the effective date of the priority distribution agreement. The priority distribution agreement obligates us to make monthly priority distribution payments to the Tribe in a maximum aggregate amount of $14.0 million per calendar year, adjusted annually in accordance with the formula specified in the priority distribution agreement to reflect the effects of inflation. However, payments pursuant to the priority distribution agreement do not reduce our obligation to make payments for governmental services provided by the Tribe or any payments under any other agreements with the Tribe to the extent that such agreements are permitted under the bank credit facility. See “—Certain Indebtedness—Bank Credit Facility.” The monthly payments under the priority distribution agreement are our limited obligations payable only to the extent of our net cash flows and are not secured by a lien or encumbrance on any of our assets or property.

 

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Relinquishment Agreement with Trading Cove Associates

General

In February 1998, we entered into the relinquishment agreement with TCA, under which we and TCA agreed to terminate the management agreement with TCA. This termination occurred on December 31, 1999. On January 1, 2000, we assumed the day-to-day management of Mohegan Sun. To compensate TCA for terminating its management rights, we agreed to pay to TCA five percent of revenues, as defined in the relinquishment agreement, generated by Mohegan Sun during the 15-year period commencing on January 1, 2000 and ending on December 31, 2014.

Relinquishment Payments

The payments under the relinquishment agreement are divided into senior relinquishment payments and junior relinquishment payments, each of which are 2.5% of revenues (as defined in the relinquishment agreement). Senior relinquishment payments are payable quarterly in arrears and commenced on April 25, 2000 and the junior relinquishment payments are payable semi-annually in arrears and commenced on July 25, 2000. Under the relinquishment agreement, revenues are defined as gross gaming revenues (other than Class II gaming revenue) and all other facility revenues (including hotel revenues, room service, food and beverage sales, parking revenues, ticket revenues and other fees or receipts from the Mohegan Sun Arena and convention center and all rental or other receipts from the lessees, licensees and concessionaires, but not the gross receipts of such lessees, licensees and concessionaires) and proceeds of business interruption insurance.

Subordination of Relinquishment Payments/Priority Distribution to the Tribe

The relinquishment agreement provides that each of the senior and junior relinquishment payments are subordinated in right to payment of senior secured obligations, which includes the bank credit facility and capital lease obligations, and that the junior relinquishment payments are further subordinated to payment of all other senior obligations, including our senior notes. The relinquishment agreement also provides that all relinquishment payments are subordinated in right of payment to the minimum priority distribution payment, as defined in the relinquishment agreement, from us to the Tribe to the extent then due.

Trademarks

In connection with the relinquishment agreement, TCA granted to us an exclusive, irrevocable, perpetual, world-wide and royalty-free license with respect to trademarks and other similar rights including the “Mohegan Sun” name, used at or developed for Mohegan Sun. We capitalized $130.0 million of the relinquishment liability in connection with the trademark value of the Mohegan Sun brand name.

Pocono Downs Purchase Agreement

On October 14, 2004, we entered into a purchase agreement with subsidiaries of Penn National Gaming, Inc., pursuant to which we acquired Pocono Downs, a standardbred harness racing facility located on approximately 400 acres in Plains Township, Pennsylvania as well as five Pennsylvania OTWs located in Carbondale, East Stroudsburg, Erie, Hazleton and Lehigh Valley (Allentown) for a purchase price of approximately $280.0 million. On August 7, 2006, we entered into an amendment of the purchase agreement with the seller, pursuant to which, in exchange for our agreement to modify certain provisions of the purchase agreement, including the elimination of our post-closing termination rights, we will receive an aggregate refund of $30.0 million of the original purchase price for the Pocono Downs entities, payable in five annual installments of $7.0 million, $7.0 million, $6.5 million, $6.0 million and $3.5 million in November 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively. The first installment of $7.0 million was received on November 14, 2007.

 

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Management and Development Agreements with Other Tribes

Cowlitz Project

In September 2004, Salishan-Mohegan entered into development and management agreements with the Cowlitz Indian Tribe regarding the Cowlitz Project. Under the terms of the development agreement, Salishan-Mohegan administers and oversees the planning, designing, development, construction, and furnishing, as well as providing assistance with the financing of the Cowlitz Project. The development agreement provides for certain development fees of 3% of total Project Costs, as defined in the development agreement, which are to be distributed to Mohegan Ventures–NW and the Mohegan Tribe pursuant to the Salishan-Mohegan operating agreement. As of April 2006, Salishan-Mohegan purchased the land to be used as the site for the planned casino, which will be transferred to the Cowlitz Tribe or the United States under certain conditions in the development agreement. The management agreement is for a period of seven years commencing with the opening of the planned casino, during which Salishan-Mohegan will manage, operate and maintain the planned casino. The management agreement provides for a management fee of 24% of Net Revenues, as defined in the management agreement, which approximates net income from the Cowlitz Project. Pursuant to the operating agreement, management fees will be allocated to the members of Salishan-Mohegan based on their respective membership percentages. Development of the Cowlitz Project is subject to certain governmental and regulatory approvals, including, but not limited to, negotiating a gaming compact with the State of Washington and the United States Department of the Interior accepting land into trust on behalf of the Cowlitz Tribe. The management agreement is subject to approval by the National Indian Gaming Commission, or the NIGC.

Menominee Project

In October 2004, we entered into a management agreement with the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin, or the Menominee Tribe, and the Menominee Kenosha Gaming Authority. The terms of the management agreement grant us the exclusive right and obligation to manage, operate and maintain a planned casino and destination resort to be located in Kenosha, Wisconsin, or the Menominee Project, for a period of seven years commencing with the opening of the planned casino, in consideration of a management fee of 13.4% of Net Revenues, as defined in the management agreement, which approximates net income earned from the Menominee Project. The management agreement is subject to approval by the NIGC.

In March 2007, Wisconsin Tribal Gaming, LLC, or WTG, was formed to participate in the development of the proposed casino to be owned by the Menominee Tribe. WTG consists of two members, one of which is Mohegan Ventures Wisconsin, LLC (a wholly owned subsidiary of the Authority formed in March 2007), or MVW, which holds an 85.4% membership interest in WTG, and the other is Mohegan Ventures, LLC (a wholly owned subsidiary of the Mohegan Tribe), or MV, which holds a 14.6% membership interest in WTG. Following formation in March 2007, WTG purchased the development rights for the Menominee Project, along with certain other assets, and assumed certain liabilities from Kenesah Gaming Development, LLC for consideration of $6.4 million. As a result of the purchase, the Authority and the Mohegan Tribe, through MVW and MV, respectively, will receive development fees payable to WTG of 13.4% of Available Revenue Flow, as defined in the development agreement with the Menominee Tribe and the Menominee Kenosha Gaming Authority, which approximates net income from the Menominee Project over a period of seven years following the opening of the casino. Development of the Menominee Project is subject to certain governmental and regulatory approvals, including but not limited to, the United States Department of the Interior accepting new land into trust for gaming at the project site in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

Certain Indebtedness

The following is a summary of the material terms of our material debt obligations. This summary does not restate in entirety the terms of the agreements under which we incurred the indebtedness. We urge you to read these agreements because they, and not these summaries, define our rights and obligations, and, in some cases, those of the Tribe. These agreements are included as exhibits to this Form 10-K.

Prior Bank Credit Facility

On March 9, 2007, we repaid the entire outstanding $55.0 million of indebtedness under our then existing $450.0 million bank credit facility and extinguished the facility.

 

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New Bank Credit Facility

On March 9, 2007, we entered into a new bank credit facility providing for up to $1.0 billion in borrowing capacity from a syndicate of 23 financial institutions and commercial banks, with Bank of America, N.A. serving as Administrative Agent. The new bank credit facility replaces our prior bank credit facility. The total commitment on the new facility may be increased to $1.25 billion at our option. The five-year senior secured revolving credit facility includes a $300.0 million term loan conversion provision which is triggered upon the initial accumulation of $300.0 million in total borrowings on the new bank credit facility. The term loan requires principal payments in quarterly installments of $750,000 after the conversion date until the maturity date of March 9, 2012, upon which the remaining balances outstanding on the term loan and any revolving loans are payable. As of September 30, 2007, the amount under letters of credit totaled $6.8 million, of which no amount was drawn, as discussed below under “Letters of Credit.” Inclusive of letters of credit, which reduce borrowing availability under the new bank credit facility, we had approximately $960.2 million of available borrowing under the new bank credit facility as of September 30, 2007, without taking into account covenants under the line of credit as described below.

The new bank credit facility is collateralized by a lien on substantially all of our assets, including the assets comprising Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs and a leasehold mortgage on the land previously taken into trust by the federal government and improvements which comprise Mohegan Sun. We also will be required to pledge additional assets as collateral for the new bank credit facility as we or our guarantor subsidiaries acquire them. Our obligations under the new bank credit facility are guaranteed by MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, MCV-PA, the Pocono Downs entities, Mohegan Golf, MVW, WTG and MTGA Gaming. The new bank credit facility subjects us to a number of restrictive covenants, including financial covenants. These financial covenants relate to, among other things, our permitted total debt and senior debt leverage ratios, our minimum fixed charge coverage ratio, our maximum capital expenditures and a periodic test which ensures we have sufficient liquidity under the new bank credit facility and other allowed borrowings, projected cash flows over applicable construction periods and existing cash and cash equivalents to cover planned construction expenditures. The new bank credit facility includes non-financial covenants by us and the Tribe of the type customarily found in loan agreements for similar transactions including requirements that:

 

   

the Tribe preserve its existence as a federally recognized Indian tribe;

 

   

the Tribe cause us to continually operate both the Mohegan Sun and Pocono Downs entities in compliance with all applicable laws; and

 

   

except under specific conditions, limit us from selling or disposing of our assets, limit the transfer of our assets to our non-guarantor subsidiary, limit the incurrence by us and our guarantor subsidiaries of other debt or contingent obligations and limit our ability to extend credit, make investments or commingle our assets with assets of the Tribe.

As of September 30, 2007, we and the Tribe were in compliance with all of our and their respective covenant requirements in the new bank credit facility.

At our option, each advance of loan proceeds accrues interest on the basis of a base rate or on the basis of a one-month, two-month, three-month, six-month or twelve-month Eurodollar rate, plus in either case, the Applicable Rate based on our Total Leverage Ratio, as each term is defined in the new bank credit facility, at the time each loan is made. We also pay commitment fees for the unused portion of the revolving loan on a quarterly basis equal to the product obtained by multiplying the Applicable Rate for commitment fees by the average daily unused commitment for that calendar quarter. The Applicable Rate for base rate advances is between 0.000% and 1.125%, and the Applicable Rate for Eurodollar rate advances is between 1.250% and 2.375%. The Applicable Rate for commitment fees is between 0.200% and 0.350%. The base rate is the higher of Bank of America’s announced prime rate or the federal funds rate plus 0.50%. Interest on Eurodollar loans is payable at the end of each applicable interest period or quarterly in arrears, if earlier. Interest on base rate advances is payable quarterly in arrears. As of September 30, 2007, we had $33.0 million in Eurodollar rate loans and no base rate

 

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loans outstanding. The Eurodollar rate loans outstanding at September 30, 2007 were comprised of: (1) a $24.0 million loan based on a one-month Eurodollar rate of 5.75% plus an Applicable Rate of 1.25% and (2) a $9.0 million loan based on a one-month Eurodollar rate of 5.50% plus an Applicable Rate of 1.25%. The Applicable Rate for commitment fees was 0.20% as of September 30, 2007.

The initial advances under the new bank credit facility on March 9, 2007 totaled $62.0 million in base rate advances under the revolving loan. The proceeds from these advances were used to refinance our prior bank credit facility, to pay costs related to entering into the new bank credit facility and fund certain operating costs.

2005 6 1/8% Senior Notes

On February 8, 2005, we issued $250.0 million Senior Notes with fixed interest payable at a rate of 6.125% per annum (the “2005 Senior Notes”). The net proceeds from this financing were used to repay amounts outstanding under the Prior Bank Credit Facility and to pay fees and expenses associated with the issuance. The 2005 Senior Notes mature on February 15, 2013. The first call date for the 2005 Senior Notes is February 15, 2009. Interest on the 2005 Senior Notes is payable semi-annually on February 15 and August 15. The 2005 Senior Notes are uncollateralized general obligations, which are effectively subordinated to all of the existing and future senior secured indebtedness, including the New Bank Credit Facility. The 2005 Senior Notes rank equally in right of payment with 50% of our payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing and rank senior to the remaining 50% of our payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing, the 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes and the 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes. MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, MCV-PA, the Pocono Downs entities, Mohegan Golf, MVW, WTG and MTGA Gaming are guarantors of the 2005 Senior Notes.

2001 8 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes

In July 2001, we issued $150.0 million Senior Subordinated Notes with fixed interest payable at a rate of 8.375% per annum (the “2001 Senior Subordinated Notes”). The proceeds from this financing were used to pay transaction costs, pay down $90.0 million on the then existing bank credit facility and fund costs related to Project Sunburst. Interest on the 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes is payable semi-annually on January 1 and July 1. The 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes mature on July 1, 2011. The first call date for the 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes was July 1, 2006. The 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes are uncollateralized general obligations and are subordinated to the New Bank Credit Facility, the 2005 Senior Notes and in a liquidation, bankruptcy or similar proceeding, 50% of our payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing. The 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes rank equally with the 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes and the remaining 50% of our payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing. MBC is a guarantor of the 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes.

In August 2004, we completed a cash tender offer and consent solicitation to repurchase any or all of its outstanding 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes. As part of the tender offer we solicited and received requisite consents to certain proposed amendments to the indentures governing the 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes, which eliminated substantially all of the restrictive covenants thereunder. The aggregate principal amount of 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes tendered was $133.7 million. An aggregate principal amount of $16.3 million of the 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes remain outstanding as of September 30, 2007.

2002 8% Senior Subordinated Notes

In February 2002, we issued $250.0 million Senior Subordinated Notes with fixed interest payable at a rate of 8.0% per annum (the “2002 Senior Subordinated Notes”). The proceeds from this financing were used to pay transaction costs and pay down $243.0 million on the then existing bank credit facility. Interest on the 2002

 

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Senior Subordinated Notes is payable semi-annually on April 1 and October 1. The 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes mature on April 1, 2012. The first call date for the 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes was April 1, 2007. The 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes are uncollateralized general obligations and are subordinated to the New Bank Credit Facility, the 2005 Senior Notes and, in a liquidation, bankruptcy or similar proceeding, 50% of our payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing. The 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes rank equally with the 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes and the remaining 50% of our payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing. MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, MCV-PA, the Pocono Downs entities, Mohegan Golf, MVW, WTG and MTGA Gaming are guarantors of the 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes.

2003 6 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes

In July 2003, we issued $330.0 million Senior Subordinated Notes with fixed interest payable at a rate of 6.375% per annum (the “2003 Senior Subordinated Notes”). The proceeds from this financing were used to repurchase substantially all of the outstanding $300.0 million 8.75% Senior Subordinated Notes issued in March 1999 and to pay fees and expenses associated with the issuance. Interest on the 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes is payable semi-annually on January 15 and July 15. The 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes mature on July 15, 2009. The 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes are uncollateralized general obligations and are subordinated to the New Bank Credit Facility, the 2005 Senior Notes and, in a liquidation, bankruptcy or similar proceeding, 50% payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing. The 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes rank equally with the 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes and the remaining 50% of our payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing. MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, MCV-PA, the Pocono Downs entities, Mohegan Golf, MVW, WTG and MTGA Gaming are guarantors of the 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes.

2004 7 1/8% Senior Subordinated Notes

In August 2004, we issued $225.0 million Senior Subordinated Notes with fixed interest payable at a rate of 7.125% per annum (the “2004 Senior Subordinated Notes”). The net proceeds from this financing, together with $130.0 million of availability under the Prior Bank Credit Facility, were used to repurchase substantially all of the outstanding 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes and substantially all of the outstanding 1999 Senior Notes tendered in the tender offers described above and to pay fees and expenses associated with the issuance. The 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes mature on August 15, 2014. The first call date for the 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes is August 15, 2009. Interest on the 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes is payable semi-annually on February 15 and August 15. The 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes are uncollateralized general obligations and are subordinated to the New Bank Credit Facility, the 2005 Senior Notes and, in a liquidation, bankruptcy or similar proceeding, 50% of our payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing. The 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes rank equally with the 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes and the remaining 50% of our payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing. MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, MCV-PA, the Pocono Downs entities, Mohegan Golf, MVW, WTG and MTGA Gaming are guarantors of the 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes.

2005 6 7/8% Senior Subordinated Notes

On February 8, 2005, we issued $150.0 million Senior Subordinated Notes with fixed interest payable at a rate of 6.875% per annum (the “2005 Senior Subordinated Notes”). The net proceeds from this financing were used to repay amounts outstanding under the Prior Bank Credit Facility and to pay fees and expenses associated with the issuance. The 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes mature on February 15, 2015. The first call date for the 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes is February 15, 2010. Interest on the 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes is payable

 

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semi-annually on February 15 and August 15. The 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes are uncollateralized general obligations and are subordinated to the New Bank Credit Facility, the 2005 Senior Notes and in a liquidation, bankruptcy or similar proceeding, 50% of our payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing. The 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes rank equally with the 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes and the remaining 50% of our payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing. MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, MCV-PA, the Pocono Downs entities, Mohegan Golf, MVW, WTG and MTGA Gaming are guarantors of the 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes.

The senior and senior subordinated note indentures contain certain financial and non-financial covenants with which we and the Tribe must comply. The financial covenants include, among other things, limitations on restricted payments and the incurrence of indebtedness, while the non-financial covenants include, among other things, reporting obligations, compliance with laws and regulations and our continued existence. As of September 30, 2007, both we and the Tribe were in compliance with all of their respective covenant requirements in the senior and senior subordinated note indentures.

WNBA Promissory Note

We and MBC are parties to a membership agreement with WNBA, LLC (the “Membership Agreement”). The Membership Agreement sets forth the terms and conditions pursuant to which MBC acquired a membership in the WNBA and the right to own and operate a professional basketball team in the WNBA. The Authority guaranteed the obligations of MBC under the Membership Agreement.

In consideration for this acquisition, MBC paid $2.0 million (with funds advanced from us) and issued a promissory note to the WNBA (the “WNBA Note”) for $8.0 million that accrues interest at an annual rate equal to a three-month Eurodollar rate plus 1.5%. The Authority guaranteed the obligations of MBC under the WNBA Note. Pursuant to the WNBA Note, principal payments of $1.0 million, subject to adjustment for certain revenue thresholds, and interest payments are required to be paid to the WNBA on each anniversary of the WNBA Note. The WNBA Note is scheduled to mature in January 2011, but will mature no later than January 2013. As of September 30, 2007, $4.0 million was outstanding on the WNBA Note.

Line of Credit

We have a $25.0 million revolving loan agreement with Bank of America, or the line of credit. Each advance accrues interest on the basis of a one-month Eurodollar rate, plus the Applicable Margin determined on the basis of our Leverage Ratio, as each term is defined in the line of credit. Borrowings under the line of credit are uncollateralized obligations. The line of credit matures on March 31, 2008 and subjects us to certain covenants, including a covenant to maintain at least $25.0 million available for borrowing under the new bank credit facility. As of September 30, 2007, we had $16.6 million in loans outstanding under the line of credit, which were based on a one-month Eurodollar rate of 5.14% plus an Applicable Margin of 0.90%. As of September 30, 2007 we were in compliance with all covenant requirements in the line of credit and had $8.4 million available for borrowing under the line of credit.

Mortgage Payable

Upon formation of Salishan-Mohegan, Salishan Company contributed, among other things, land with a mortgage payable of $2.6 million. The mortgage payable bears interest due on a monthly basis at an annual rate of 9.5%, with the principal balance payable in full by Salishan-Mohegan on the maturity date. In March 2006, Salishan-Mohegan received an extension on the maturity date from March 28, 2006 to March 28, 2007. Refer to “Salishan-Mohegan Bank Credit Facility” below for the payment of this mortgage. Any and all amounts paid by Salishan-Mohegan, including interest payments, pursuant to this agreement are reimbursable by the Cowlitz Tribe provided certain events occur, as described in the development agreement between Salishan-Mohegan and the Cowlitz Tribe.

 

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Salishan-Mohegan Bank Credit Facility

In October 2006, Salishan-Mohegan entered into a $25.0 million revolving loan agreement with Bank of America, or the Salishan Credit Facility, which matures on September 30, 2009. The revolving loan has no mandatory amortization provisions and is payable in full at maturity. At the option of Salishan-Mohegan, each advance of loan proceeds accrues interest on the basis of a base rate or on the basis of a one-month, two-month, three-month or six-month Eurodollar rate, plus a spread of 1.25% for base rate loans and 2.25% for Eurodollar loans. The base rate is the higher of Bank of America’s announced prime rate or the federal funds rate plus 0.50%. The Salishan Credit Facility is collateralized by a lien on substantially all of the existing and future assets of Salishan-Mohegan. The obligations of Salishan-Mohegan under the Salishan Credit Facility are also guaranteed by the Mohegan Tribe. The Salishan Credit Facility subjects Salishan-Mohegan to a number of restrictive covenants, including financial and non-financial covenants customarily found in loan agreements for similar transactions.

Immediately following the execution of the loan agreement, $10.0 million in loan proceeds were used by Salishan-Mohegan to provide a partial repayment of its outstanding loan balance with Mohegan Ventures-NW. Another $2.6 million in loan proceeds were used to pay off a mortgage payable discussed above under “Mortgage Payable.” As of September 30, 2007, Salishan-Mohegan had $7.7 million of available borrowings under the Salishan Credit Facility. As of September 30, 2007, Salishan-Mohegan had $17.3 million in Eurodollar rate loans and no base rate loans outstanding. The Eurodollar rate loans outstanding at September 30, 2007 were comprised of: (1) a $15.5 million loan based on a one-month Eurodollar rate of 5.50% plus an Applicable Rate of 2.25% and (2) $1.8 million in loans based on a one-month Eurodollar rate of 5.80% plus an Applicable Rate of 2.25%. The Applicable Rate for commitment fees was 0.50% as of September 30, 2007.

Letters of Credit

As of September 30, 2007, we maintained four uncollateralized letters of credit to satisfy potential workers’ compensation liabilities, overdue pari-mutuel wagering tax liabilities of the Pocono Downs entities that may arise, overdue amounts for purses due to horsemen at Pocono Downs that may arise and potential contractor and subcontractor liabilities relating to the Project Horizon expansion at Mohegan Sun. The letters of credit expire(d) on August 31, 2008, January 25, 2008, November 17, 2007 and September 5, 2008, respectively, subject to renewals. As of September 30, 2007, no amounts were drawn on the letters of credit.

Environmental Matters

The site on which Mohegan Sun is located formerly was occupied by United Nuclear Corporation, a naval products manufacturer of, among other things, nuclear reactor fuel components. United Nuclear Corporation’s facility was officially decommissioned on June 8, 1994 when the Nuclear Regulatory Commission confirmed that all licensable quantities of such nuclear material had been removed from the site and that any residual contamination from such material was remediated according to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission approved decommissioning plan.

From 1991 through 1993, United Nuclear Corporation commissioned environmental audits and soil sampling programs which detected, among other things, volatile organic chemicals, heavy metals and fuel hydrocarbons in the soil and groundwater. The Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection, or DEP, reviewed the environmental audits and reports and established cleanup requirements for the site. In December 1994, the DEP approved United Nuclear Corporation’s remedial plan, which determined that groundwater remediation was unnecessary because although the groundwater beneath the site was contaminated, it met the applicable groundwater criteria given the classification of the groundwater under the site. In addition, extensive remediation of contaminated soils and additional investigation were completed to achieve the DEP’s cleanup criteria and demonstrate that the remaining soils complied with applicable cleanup criteria. Initial construction at the site also involved extensive soil excavation. According to the data gathered in a 1995 environmental report

 

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commissioned by United Nuclear Corporation, remediation is complete and is consistent with the applicable Connecticut cleanup requirements. The DEP has reviewed and approved the cleanup activities at the site, and, as part of the DEP’s approval, United Nuclear Corporation was required to perform post-closure groundwater monitoring at the site to ensure the adequacy of the cleanup. In addition, under the terms of United Nuclear Corporation’s environmental certification and indemnity agreement with the Department of the Interior (which took the former United Nuclear Corporation land into trust for the Tribe), United Nuclear Corporation agreed to indemnify the Department of the Interior for environmental actions and expenses based on acts or conditions existing or occurring as a result of United Nuclear Corporation’s activities on the property.

We are not currently incurring, and did not incur in the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005, any material costs related to compliance with environmental requirements with respect to the Mohegan Sun site’s former use by the United Nuclear Corporation. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no assurance can be given that any existing environmental studies reveal all environmental liabilities, or that future laws, ordinances or regulations will not impose any material environmental liability, or that a material environmental condition does not otherwise currently exist.

Prior to acquiring the Pocono Downs entities, we conducted an extensive environmental investigation of the Pocono Downs facilities. In the course of that work, we identified several environmental conditions at the Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs facility for which corrective actions are necessary to bring the property into compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Downs Racing implemented a comprehensive plan to mitigate and resolve these conditions. As of September 30, 2007, Downs Racing has an estimated remaining obligation of approximately $197,000 for completion of the remediation plan.

Employees and Labor Relations

As of September 30, 2007, Mohegan Sun employed approximately 8,700 full-time employees, and 1,700 seasonal and part-time employees. Pursuant to the Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance, when recruiting and hiring personnel, except with respect to key personnel, Mohegan Sun is obligated to give preference first to qualified members of the Tribe and then to enrolled members of other Indian tribes. See “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.” None of Mohegan Sun’s employees are covered by collective bargaining agreements.

As of September 30, 2007, Pocono Downs employed approximately 830 full time employees. Certain of our Pocono Downs employees are represented under collective bargaining agreements between Downs Racing, the International Union of Operating Engineers Local Union 542C (“Local Union 542C”) and Teamsters Local No. 401 (“Local No. 401”). The agreement with Local Union 542C expires on March 31, 2010 and relates to equipment and heavy equipment operators. The agreement with Local No. 401 expires on January 31, 2012 and relates to truck drivers and maintenance employees.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

In connection with the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, set forth below are cautionary statements identifying important factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from any forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of us, whether oral or written. We wish to ensure that any forward-looking statements are accompanied by meaningful cautionary statements in order to maximize to the fullest extent possible the protections of the safe harbor established in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Accordingly, any such statements are qualified in their entirety by reference to, and are accompanied by, the following important factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from our forward-looking statements. Refer also to “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” on page 1 of this Form 10-K.

 

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Risks Related to Our Business

Our substantial indebtedness could affect adversely our financial condition.

We currently have and will continue to have a significant amount of indebtedness. As of September 30, 2007, we had outstanding debt totaling $1.29 billion. In addition, as of September 30, 2007, we had borrowing capacity under the new bank credit facility and line of credit of up to $960.2 million in total, of which no amounts were drawn.

Our substantial indebtedness could have significant adverse effects on our business. Such adverse effects include, but are not limited to, the following:

 

   

make it more difficult for us to satisfy our debt service obligations;

 

   

increase our vulnerability to adverse economic and industry conditions;

 

   

require us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flows from operations to payments on our indebtedness, thereby reducing the availability of our cash flows to fund working capital, capital expenditures and other general operating requirements;

 

   

limit our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the gaming industry, which may place us at a disadvantage compared to our competitors with stronger liquidity positions, thereby hurting our results of operations and ability to meet our debt service obligations with respect to our outstanding indebtedness; and

 

   

limit, along with the financial and other restrictive covenants in our outstanding indebtedness, our ability to borrow additional funds.

An entity’s ability to enforce their rights against us is limited by our sovereign immunity and that of the Tribe, MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, Mohegan Golf and, to the extent applicable, the Pocono Downs entities, WTG and MTGA Gaming.

Although we, the Tribe, MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, Mohegan Golf and, to the extent applicable, the Pocono Downs entities, WTG and MTGA Gaming, each have sovereign immunity and may not be sued without our and their respective consents, we, the Tribe, MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, Mohegan Golf, the Pocono Downs entities, WTG and MTGA Gaming, to the extent applicable, each have granted a limited waiver of sovereign immunity and consent to suit in connection with some of our outstanding indebtedness. Each such waiver includes suits against us to enforce our obligation to repay certain outstanding indebtedness. Generally, waivers of sovereign immunity have been held to be enforceable against Indian tribes. In the event that any waiver of sovereign immunity is held to be ineffective, an entity could be precluded from judicially enforcing their rights and remedies. With limited exceptions, we, the Tribe, MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, Mohegan Golf, the Pocono Downs entities, WTG and MTGA Gaming have not waived sovereign immunity from private civil suits, including violations of the federal securities laws. For this reason, an entity may not have any remedy against us, the Tribe, MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, Mohegan Golf, the Pocono Downs entities, WTG or MTGA Gaming for violations of federal securities laws.

Disputes may be brought in a federal or state court that has jurisdiction over the matter. However, federal courts may not exercise jurisdiction over disputes not arising under federal law, and state courts may not exercise jurisdiction over disputes arising on the Mohegan reservation. In addition, the Tribe’s Constitution has established a special court, the Gaming Disputes Court, to rule on disputes with respect to Mohegan Sun. The federal and state courts, under the doctrines of comity and exhaustion of tribal remedies, may be required to (1) defer to the jurisdiction of the Gaming Disputes Court or (2) require that any plaintiff exhaust its remedies in the Gaming Disputes Court before bringing any action in federal or state court. Thus, there may be no federal or state court forum with respect to a dispute.

 

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The Tribe’s Constitution currently has a provision that prohibits the Tribe from enacting any law that would impair the obligations of contracts entered into in furtherance of the development, construction, operation and promotion of gaming on Tribal lands. However, this provision could be amended by a supermajority of the Tribe’s registered voters to impair the obligation of such contracts.

Any rights as a creditor are limited to our assets and those of our guarantor subsidiaries.

Any rights as a creditor in a bankruptcy, liquidation or reorganization or similar proceeding would be limited to our assets and the assets of our guarantor subsidiaries, and would not encompass the assets of our other subsidiary that is not a guarantor, the Tribe or its other affiliates.

We, the Tribe and our wholly owned subsidiaries may not be subject to the federal bankruptcy laws, which could impair the ability of our creditors to be repaid from the sale of our assets if we are unwilling or unable to meet our debt service obligations.

We, the Tribe and our wholly owned subsidiaries may not be subject to the federal bankruptcy laws. No assurance can be given that, if an event of default occurs, a forum will be available to creditors other than the Gaming Disputes Court. In such court, there are presently no guiding precedents for the interpretation of Tribal law. Any execution of a judgment of the Gaming Disputes Court or any other court on Tribal lands will require the cooperation of the Tribe’s officials in the exercise of their police powers. Thus, to the extent that a judgment of the Gaming Disputes Court must be executed on Tribal lands, the practical realization of any benefit of such a judgment will be dependent upon the willingness and ability of Tribal officials to carry out such judgment. In addition, the land on which Mohegan Sun is located is owned by the United States in trust for the Tribe, and our creditors and the creditors of the Tribe may not foreclose upon or obtain title to the land.

Restrictions in the new bank credit facility and the indentures to which we are a party may impose limits on our ability to pursue our business strategies.

The new bank credit facility and the indentures to which we are a party contain customary operating and financial restrictions that limit our discretion on various business matters. These restrictions include covenants limiting our ability to:

 

   

incur additional indebtedness;

 

   

pay dividends or make other distributions;

 

   

make certain investments;

 

   

use assets as security in other transactions;

 

   

sell certain assets or merge with or into another person;

 

   

grant liens;

 

   

make capital expenditures; and

 

   

enter into transactions with affiliates.

These restrictions may, among other things, reduce our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the gaming industry in general and thereby may negatively impact our financial condition, results of operations and our ability to meet our debt service obligations.

The new bank credit facility also requires us to maintain a fixed charge coverage ratio and not to exceed certain ratios of senior leverage and total leverage, as defined in the new bank credit facility. If these ratios are not maintained or are exceeded, as applicable, it may be impossible for us to borrow additional funds to meet our obligations.

 

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In addition, the new bank credit facility requires a periodic test which ensures that we have sufficient liquidity under the new bank credit facility and other allowed borrowings, projected cash flows over applicable construction periods and existing cash and cash equivalents to cover planned construction expenditures.

Additionally, our failure to comply with covenants in our debt instruments could result in an event of default which, if not cured or waived, could have a material adverse effect on us and could result in the acceleration of all then-outstanding amounts of such debt and an inability to make debt service payments.

A downturn in the regional economy could impact negatively our financial performance.

Primarily all Mohegan Sun and Pocono Downs patrons arrive via automobile and are assumed to work or live in the northeastern United States and northeastern Pennsylvania, respectively. Moderate or severe economic downturns or adverse conditions in the northeastern United States or northeastern Pennsylvania may affect negatively our financial performance. During periods of economic contraction, our revenues may decrease while some of our costs remain fixed, resulting in decreased earnings. This is because the gaming and other leisure activities that we offer are discretionary expenditures and participation in such activities may decline during economic downturns because consumers have less disposable income. Even an uncertain economic outlook may affect adversely consumer spending in our gaming operations and related facilities, because consumers spend less in anticipation of a potential economic downturn. Accordingly, our business, assets, financial condition and results of operations could be affected adversely if the regional economic conditions or outlook weaken.

The loss of a key management member could have a material adverse effect on us, Mohegan Sun and the Pocono Downs entities.

Our success depends in large part on the continued service of key management personnel, particularly Mitchell Grossinger Etess, Chief Executive Officer of the Authority and Chief Executive Officer and President of Mohegan Sun, Jeffrey E. Hartmann, Chief Operating Officer of the Authority and Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Mohegan Sun, Leo M. Chupaska, Chief Financial Officer of the Authority, and Robert J. Soper, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Pocono Downs entities. The loss of the services of one or more of these individuals or other key personnel could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition. The key management personnel, excluding Mr. Soper, currently are retained pursuant to five-year employment agreements for Mr. Etess and Mr. Hartmann, which expire on December 31, 2011, and a three-year employment agreement for Mr. Chupaska, which expires on December 31, 2008. Each of these agreements includes a provision for automatic renewal for an additional term of five years. Mr. Soper and the Management Board are currently in the process of finalizing the terms of a new employment agreement.

We may be subject to material environmental liability as a result of possibly incomplete remediation of known environmental hazards and the existence of unknown environmental hazards.

Our properties and operations are subject to a wide range of environmental laws and regulations governing, among other things, air emissions, wastewater discharges, the use, management and disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous materials and wastes, and the cleanup of contamination. Noncompliance with such laws and regulations, and past or future activities resulting in environmental releases, could cause us to incur substantial costs, including cleanup costs, fines and penalties, investments to retrofit or upgrade our facilities and programs, or could affect our operations.

The site on which Mohegan Sun is located was formerly occupied by United Nuclear Corporation, a naval products manufacturer of, among other things, nuclear reactor fuel components. Prior to the decommissioning of United Nuclear Corporation facilities on the site, extensive remediation of contaminated soils and additional investigations were completed. The site currently meets federal and state remediation requirements.

 

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Prior to acquiring the Pocono Downs entities, we conducted an extensive environmental investigation of the Pocono Downs facilities. In the course of that work, we identified several environmental conditions at the Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs facility for which corrective actions are necessary to bring the property into compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Downs Racing implemented a comprehensive plan to mitigate and resolve these conditions. As of September 30, 2007, Downs Racing has an estimated remaining obligation of approximately $197,000 for completion of the remediation plan.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, we cannot assure you that:

 

   

the various environmental reports or any other existing environmental studies prepared with respect to these sites revealed all environmental liabilities;

 

   

any prior owners or tenants did not create any material environmental condition not known to us;

 

   

future laws, ordinances or regulations will not impose any material environmental liability; or

 

   

a material environmental condition does not otherwise exist on any site.

Any of the above could have a material adverse effect upon our future operating results and ability to meet our debt service obligations.

Risks Related to Mohegan Sun

Mohegan Sun’s failure to generate sufficient cash flows could prevent us from fulfilling our debt service obligations.

We currently rely primarily on cash flows generated by gaming operations at Mohegan Sun to meet our debt service obligations. Our financial condition and operations are subject to many financial, economic, political, competitive and regulatory factors beyond our control. If Mohegan Sun is unable to generate sufficient cash flows, we may be unable to meet our debt service obligations with respect to our outstanding indebtedness. We could be required to, among other things, reduce or delay planned capital expenditures, dispose of some of our assets and/or seek to restructure some or all of our debt. We cannot assure you that any of these alternatives could be effected on satisfactory terms, if at all, and if effected, would not have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.

If we are not able to compete successfully, we may not be able to generate sufficient cash flows to fund our operations or service our debt.

The following summarizes the material risks we face as a result of existing and potential competition that may affect our results of operations at Mohegan Sun. A more extensive discussion of the competitive landscape affecting Mohegan Sun can be found under “Market and Competition from Other Gaming Operations.” In addition, our harness racing and slot machine operations at Pocono Downs are subject to competition in Pennsylvania and southeastern New York, as described below under “—Risks Related to Our Pocono Downs Operations”

We face intense competition in our target market from Foxwoods Resort Casino.

The existing gaming industry in our market areas is highly competitive. Mohegan Sun primarily competes with Foxwoods, operated by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe. Foxwoods is approximately ten miles from Mohegan Sun and is the largest gaming facility in the United States in terms of total gaming positions. Foxwoods has been in operation for approximately fifteen years and may have greater financial resources and operating experience than us.

In February 2005, the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe announced its plans to undertake a three-year, $700.0 million expansion at Foxwoods, which is expected to add over two million square feet to the facility, including

 

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an 825-room hotel tower, a spa, a theater, additional retail, entertainment and parking spaces and additional meeting, convention and reception facilities. In addition, the expansion is expected to include 50,000 square feet of gaming space and will accommodate an additional 1,500 slot machines and 45 table games. Groundbreaking activities occurred in November 2005, and the facility is scheduled to open in May of 2008. On December 8, 2006, the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe and MGM Mirage, Inc. announced that they had completed agreements that include the development of the new hotel and casino described above. The new hotel and casino will be known as the “MGM Grand at Foxwoods” and will be owned and operated by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe but with marketing and other services available under license from MGM Mirage. In May 2005, the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe completed the construction of two golf courses and a clubhouse and subsequently opened eight golf villas and a golf academy. In November 2007, Foxwoods announced an additional investment of $55.0 million to add additional restaurants and shops to MGM Grand at Foxwoods.

In addition to Foxwoods, we also face competition from existing casino and other gaming operations elsewhere in our market areas.

Since the completion of Project Sunburst in 2002, we have broadened Mohegan Sun’s target market beyond day-trip customers to include guests making overnight stays at the resort. Consequently, Mohegan Sun also now competes directly for customers with resort casinos in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Many of these casinos may have greater resources, operating experience and name recognition than Mohegan Sun. Moreover, public announcements, including those by Boyd Gaming, Pinnacle Entertainment and MGM, indicate that several Atlantic City properties are undergoing renovation and expansion, which could make them more attractive destinations and divert potential customers from Mohegan Sun.

Mohegan Sun also currently faces competition from several casinos and gaming facilities located on Indian tribal lands in New York, and from racetracks and other facilities in New York and Rhode Island that operate video gaming machines. New York has six federally recognized tribes located in the central, northern and western parts of the state. Three of these tribes, the Oneida Nation of New York, the Seneca Nation and the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe of New York, currently engage in casino gaming. The St. Regis Mohawk Tribe has a pending land-into-trust application with the Bureau of Indian Affairs, which, if approved, would allow for the conversion of approximately 29 acres at the Monticello Raceway in Monticello, New York into a tribal-owned casino. In addition to these three tribes, other Indian tribes have announced potential casino projects, which, if completed, will add significant casino space and hotel rooms to the northeastern United States gaming market. In addition, eight thoroughbred and harness racetracks located in various parts of the state of New York, including Yonkers Raceway in Yonkers, currently operate an aggregate of approximately 13,000 video gaming machines, with additional facilities under consideration for Aqueduct Raceway in Queens and Belmont Park in Nassau County. Two facilities located in Rhode Island operate an aggregate of approximately 5,700 video gaming machines.

New market entrants in our market areas could adversely affect our operations and our ability to meet our financial obligations.

Under current law, outside of Atlantic City, New Jersey, full-scale commercial casino gaming in the northeastern United States may be conducted only by federally recognized Indian tribes operating under federal Indian gaming laws or on cruise ships in international waters. In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of Indian tribes seeking to engage in commercial casino gaming, including full-scale commercial casinos, in the northeastern United States and in the number of individual groups seeking to obtain federal recognition as Indian tribes so that they may engage in commercial casino gaming in the northeastern United States. Under federal law, after obtaining federal recognition and before full scale commercial casino gaming operations may commence, a tribe must, among other things, have land taken into trust by the federal government, negotiate a gaming compact with the state in which they intend to engage in commercial casino gaming, adopt a tribal gaming ordinance and construct a facility. A tribe may also need to negotiate a gaming management agreement and obtain financing to construct a facility. Many Indian tribes and individual groups

 

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seeking to gain federal recognition as Indian tribes are pursuing commercial casino gaming in the northeastern United States. These efforts are ongoing in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New York and Rhode Island.

In addition, a number of states, including Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New York, have considered or are considering legalization of one or more forms of commercial casino gaming by non-Indians in one or more locations. Based on internal analysis of the existing and potential gaming market in our market areas, we believe that competition from other commercial casino gaming operations will continue to increase in the future. We are unable to predict whether any of the efforts discussed above by other federally recognized Indian tribes, individual groups attempting to gain federal recognition as Indian tribes or legalization of commercial casino gaming by non-Indians will lead to the establishment of additional commercial casino gaming operations in the northeastern United States. If established, we are uncertain of the impact such commercial casino gaming operations will have on our operations and our ability to meet our financial obligations.

Because the gaming industry in the State of Connecticut has experienced seasonal fluctuations in the past, we also may experience seasonal variations in our revenue and operating results that could affect adversely our cash flows.

The gaming industry in the State of Connecticut has experienced seasonal fluctuations, with the heaviest gaming activity occurring between May and August. Similarly, the heaviest gaming activity has occurred at Mohegan Sun between May and August. As a result of these seasonal fluctuations, we likely will continue to experience seasonal variations in our quarterly revenue and operating results that could result in decreased cash flows during periods in which gaming activity is not at peak levels. These variations in quarterly revenue and operating results could affect adversely our overall financial condition.

Negative conditions affecting the lodging industry may have an adverse affect on our revenue and cash flows.

We depend on the revenue generated from the hotel at Mohegan Sun, together with the revenue generated from the other portions of Mohegan Sun, to meet our debt obligations and fund our operations. Revenue generated from the operation of the hotel is subject primarily to conditions affecting our gaming operations, but is also subject to the lodging industry in general, and, as a result, our cash flows and financial performance may be affected not only by the conditions in the gaming industry, but also by those in the lodging industry. Some of these conditions are as follows:

 

   

changes in the local, regional or national economic climate;

 

   

changes in local conditions such as an oversupply of hotel properties;

 

   

decreases in the level of demand for hotel rooms and related services;

 

   

the attractiveness of our hotel to consumers and competition from comparable hotels;

 

   

cyclical over-building in the hotel industry;

 

   

changes in travel patterns;

 

   

changes in room rates and increases in operating costs due to inflation and other factors; and

 

   

the periodic need to repair and renovate the hotel.

Adverse changes in these conditions could affect adversely our hotel’s financial performance and results of operations.

 

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Our obligations under the relinquishment agreement could affect adversely our financial condition and prevent us from fulfilling our debt service obligations.

Pursuant to the terms of the relinquishment agreement, we are required, among other things, to pay TCA five percent of the revenues (as defined in the relinquishment agreement) generated by Mohegan Sun during the 15-year period which commenced on January 1, 2000. During the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007, we paid $77.4 million in relinquishment payments.

This obligation consumes a significant portion of our operating cash flows that might otherwise be available to, among other things, reduce indebtedness and fund working capital, capital expenditures and other general operating requirements and thereby affect our ability to meet our debt service obligations. As a result, our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the gaming industry in general is reduced. This may place us at a disadvantage compared to our competitors that do not have such an obligation.

Failure to complete Project Horizon’s planned construction within its budget and on time with minimal disruption to existing operations could adversely affect the financial condition of the Authority.

The anticipated construction costs and completion dates for Project Horizon are based on budgets, design documents and schedule estimates prepared by the Authority with the assistance of architects, contractors and consultants. Construction projects such as Project Horizon are inherently subject to significant development and construction risks, which could cause unanticipated cost increases. These include the following:

 

   

escalation of construction costs above anticipated amounts;

 

   

shortage of material and skilled labor;

 

   

weather interference;

 

   

engineering problems;

 

   

environmental problems;

 

   

fire, flood and other natural disasters;

 

   

labor disputes; and

 

   

geological, construction, demolition, excavation and/or equipment problems.

Furthermore, although construction activities related to Project Horizon have been planned to minimize disruption, construction noise and debris and the temporary closing of some of the facility, such activities may disrupt Mohegan Sun’s current operations. Unexpected construction delays could exacerbate or magnify these disruptions. We cannot assure you that construction of Project Horizon will not have a material adverse effect on the Authority’s results of operations.

The risks associated with operating an expanded facility and managing its growth could have a material adverse effect on Mohegan Sun’s future performance.

Mohegan Sun, when Project Horizon is completed, will have a larger amount of gaming space, more entertainment venues and retail space, as well as a new hotel. There can be no assurance that the Authority will be successful in integrating the new amenities into Mohegan Sun’s current operations or in managing the expanded resort. The failure to integrate and manage the new services and amenities successfully could have a material adverse effect on the Authority’s results of operations and its ability to meet its debt service obligations with respect to its outstanding indebtedness.

 

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Risks Related to the Indian Gaming Industry

Gaming is a highly regulated industry and changes in the law could have a material adverse effect on the Tribe’s and our ability to conduct gaming, and thus on our ability to meet our debt service obligations.

Gaming on the Tribe’s reservation is regulated extensively by federal, state and tribal regulatory bodies, including the NIGC and agencies of the State of Connecticut, such as the Department of Revenue Services’ Division of Special Revenue, the State Police and the Department of Consumer Protection’s Division of Liquor Control. As is the case with any casino, changes in applicable laws and regulations could limit or materially affect the types of gaming that may be conducted, or services provided, by us and the revenues realized therefrom.

Currently, the operation of all gaming on Indian lands is subject to IGRA. Over the past several years, legislation has been introduced in the United States Congress with the intent of modifying a variety of perceived problems with IGRA. Virtually all of the proposals that have been considered seriously would be prospective in effect and contain clauses that would grandfather existing Indian gaming operations such as Mohegan Sun. Legislation also has been proposed, however, which would have the effect of repealing many of the key provisions of IGRA and prohibiting the continued operation of particular classes of gaming on Indian reservations in states where such gaming is not otherwise allowed on a commercial basis. While none of the substantive proposed amendments to IGRA have been enacted, we cannot predict the effects of future legislative acts. In the event that Congress passes prohibitory legislation that does not include any grandfathering exemption for existing tribal gaming operations, and if such legislation is sustained in the courts against tribal challenge, our ability to meet our debt service obligations would be materially and adversely affected.

In addition, under federal law, gaming on Indian land is dependent on the permissibility under state law of specific forms of gaming or similar activities. If the State of Connecticut were to make various forms of gaming illegal or against public policy, such action may have an adverse effect on our ability to conduct our gaming operations. In fact, in January 2003, the State of Connecticut repealed its Las Vegas nights statute, but the state Attorney General opined that the repeal did not affect the two existing Indian gaming compacts. Connecticut currently permits, among other things, a state lottery, jai alai fronton betting, greyhound racing and off-track betting parlors.

A change in our current tax-exempt status, and that of our subsidiaries, could have a material adverse effect on our ability to meet our debt service obligations.

Based on current interpretation of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the Code, we, the Tribe, MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, the Pocono Downs entities, WTG and MTGA Gaming are not subject to federal income taxes. However, we cannot assure you that the United States Congress will not reverse or modify the exemption for Indian tribes from federal income taxation.

Efforts have been made in the United States Congress over the past several years to amend the Code to provide for taxation of the net income of tribal business entities. These efforts have included a House of Representatives bill that would have taxed gaming income earned by Indian tribes as unrelated business income subject to corporate tax rates. Although no such legislation has been enacted, such legislation could be passed in the future. A change in the tax law could have a material adverse effect on our financial performance.

Risks Related to Our Pocono Downs Operations

If we are not able to develop Project Sunrise at Pocono Downs on time or on budget, we may not be able to achieve necessary returns from the Pocono Downs acquisition.

We anticipate total costs to develop Project Sunrise at Pocono Downs of approximately $208.0 million. Construction commenced in May 2007 with a grand opening planned in the summer of 2008. Failure to complete

 

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Project Sunrise within budget or on schedule could prevent us from achieving necessary returns from the Pocono Downs acquisition and, accordingly, may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

The adoption of modifications relating to the Pennsylvania Gaming Act could result in changes to the rules and regulations under which gaming is conducted in the Commonwealth, which in turn could negatively impact our operations and expected profitability.

It has been reported that there may be attempts to amend the Pennsylvania Gaming Act in future legislative sessions. As with any gaming operation, changes in applicable laws or regulations could limit or materially affect the types of gaming we may conduct or the services we may provide, at Pocono Downs. In addition, several legal challenges have been filed in both state and federal court challenging various provisions of the Pennsylvania Gaming Act. If any legislation or legal challenges were to succeed, our ability to develop Project Sunrise and continue to operate a gaming site at Pocono Downs could be adversely affected.

Construction difficulties may delay our projected opening of Project Sunrise and could prevent us from achieving our operating projections.

Construction projects like this one are inherently subject to significant development and construction risks, all of which could cause unanticipated delays or cost increases. These include the following:

 

   

regulatory approvals;

 

   

escalation of construction costs above anticipated amounts;

 

   

shortage of material and skilled labor;

 

   

weather interference;

 

   

engineering problems;

 

   

environmental problems;

 

   

fire, flood and other natural disasters;

 

   

labor disputes; and

 

   

geological, construction, demolition, excavation and/or equipment problems.

If Pocono Downs is not able to compete successfully with existing and potential competitors, we may not be able to generate sufficient cash flows to fulfill our debt service obligations relating to the acquisition and our development activities.

In July 2004, Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell signed the Pennsylvania Race Horse and Development and Gaming Act, or the Pennsylvania Gaming Act, permitting up to 61,000 slot machines at 14 locations throughout the state. The Pennsylvania Gaming Act authorized slot machines at seven harness and thoroughbred racetracks, and five stand-alone slot facilities. Each of the facilities may initially install up to 3,000 slot machines and can be expanded to up to 5,000 slot machines after six months of operation and upon gaining the approval of the PGCB. In addition, the legislation authorized two resort facilities with up to 500 slot machines. The Pennsylvania Gaming Act also includes prohibitions against locating facilities in close proximity to other operations, including, among other things, a prohibition against locating another harness or thoroughbred facility with slots or a stand-alone slot facility within 20 linear miles of Pocono Downs, and a prohibition against locating a resort facility within 15 linear miles of Pocono Downs.

Slot machine licenses have been awarded to all owners of the six existing racetracks: Philadelphia Park located in Bensalem (approximately 115 miles southeast of Pocono Downs), Penn National Race Course in Grantville (located approximately 85 miles southwest of Pocono Downs), Presque Isle Downs in Summit

 

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Township, near Erie (approximately 325 miles from Pocono Downs) and two harness racetracks, the Meadows, located in Meadow Lands, near Pittsburgh (approximately 300 miles from Pocono Downs), and Harrah’s Chester Casino and Racetrack, located in Chester (approximately 115 miles from Pocono Downs). In addition, it is expected that a slot machine license will be awarded to Centaur, Inc., which is currently building Valley View Downs in Lawrence County, near Pittsburgh.

The PGCB has awarded conditional Category Two slot machine licenses for five stand-alone slot facilities, two of which are located in Philadelphia and one of which is located in Pittsburgh. The remaining two facilities selected, which are located closer to Pocono Downs and are more likely to have an impact on our Pocono Downs operations, are as follows:

 

   

Mount Airy, LLC was approved for a conditional Category Two slot machine license to operate a slot machine parlor at the former Mount Airy Lodge in Mount Pocono, which is approximately 40 miles from Pocono Downs. In October 2007, Mount Airy, LLC opened its $412.0 million Mount Airy Resort and Casino, which includes approximately 2,300 slot machines. In November 2007, the facility introduced a 188-room hotel and is expected to open Gypsies Lounge Nightclub in late 2007. Reports indicate that by the end of 2008, the facility will be expanded to have 3,000 slot machines, 400 hotel rooms, four restaurants, a night club, conference rooms, a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, retail shops and additional parking.

 

   

Sands Bethworks Gaming, a partnership between BethWorks and Las Vegas Sands, Inc., owner of the Venetian Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, was approved for a conditional Category Two slot machine license to operate a gaming facility in Bethlehem, which is approximately 70 miles from Pocono Downs. The group has indicated plans for a $630.0 million Phase I project that would offer 3,000 slot machines, a new 300-room hotel, retail shops and restaurants to the public by the spring of 2009 and a future expansion that would increase the total number of slot machines to 5,000 by late 2009.

In addition to the other slot facilities in Pennsylvania, Pocono Downs faces competition from a VLT gaming facility at Monticello Raceway in Monticello, New York in the Catskills, which features a reported 1,500 VLTs, and any full scale casino gaming operation that is ultimately developed by an Indian tribe in the Catskills region. The Catskills are approximately 90 miles from Pocono Downs. Pocono Downs also could face competition from Tioga Downs Racetrack in Nichols, New York, approximately 100 miles from Pocono Downs. On June 9, 2006, Tioga Downs opened its racetrack after renovations, and on July 4, 2006, the track opened its new gaming floor, which includes 750 video lottery terminals.

We are uncertain of the impact these racetracks and planned commercial casino gaming operations will have on our operations and our ability to meet our financial obligations.

Our operations of the Pocono Downs business subject us to regulation by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board and Pennsylvania’s State Harness Racing Commission.

As owners and operators of the Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs gaming and entertainment facility offering slot machine gaming, live harness racing and off-track wagering in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, we are subject to extensive state regulation by the PGCB, the Harness Racing Commission and other state regulatory bodies such as the liquor control board. Applicable rules and regulations may require that we obtain a variety of registrations, permits and approvals to conduct our operations. Regulatory bodies may, for any reason set forth in the applicable legislation, rules and regulations, limit, condition, suspend, deny or revoke a license to conduct our operations as we intend to conduct them. We cannot assure you that we will be able to continually renew all registrations, permits, approvals or licenses necessary to conduct our business in Pennsylvania as we intend to conduct it. Any of these events, or any changes in applicable laws or regulations, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

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Changes in or the issuance of additional regulations by the PGCB may adversely affect our operations at Pocono Downs.

Under the Pennsylvania Gaming Act, the PGCB has broad authority to regulate gaming activities. Slot machine gaming is a new industry in Pennsylvania and many of the regulations issued by the PGCB to date are temporary in nature. Additional regulations and permanent regulations are expected to be issued by the PGCB. Such additional or permanent regulations could adversely affect our gaming operations at Pocono Downs.

Assessments for regulatory costs may negatively impact our operating results.

Under the Pennsylvania Gaming Act, the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue and the PGCB have the right to assess certain regulatory costs against slot machine operators. At this time, the amount of such costs and the allocation methodology for assessing licensed facilities has not been determined. Once determined, these assessments could adversely affect our operating results at Pocono Downs.

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

Item 2. Properties

Mohegan Sun is located on 185 acres of the Tribe’s approximately 507-acre reservation just outside of Uncasville, Connecticut, approximately one mile from the interchange of Interstate 395 and Connecticut Route 2A. The land located in southeastern Connecticut upon which Mohegan Sun is situated is held in trust for the Tribe by the United States. Mohegan Sun has its own exit from Route 2A, giving patrons direct access to Interstate 395 and Interstate 95, the main highways connecting Boston, Providence and New York City. By highway, Mohegan Sun is approximately 125 miles from New York City, New York, 100 miles from Boston, Massachusetts, 45 miles from Hartford, Connecticut and 50 miles from Providence, Rhode Island.

We have a lease with the Tribe for land on which Mohegan Sun is located. The initial term of the lease is 25 years, with an option to renew for one additional 25-year term provided that we are not in default under the lease. The lease also provides that all improvements constructed on the site will become the property of the Tribe. The lease is a net lease requiring that we assume all costs of operating, constructing, maintaining, repairing, replacing and insuring the leased property, in addition to the payment of a nominal annual rental fee.

We have entered into various lease agreements for properties adjacent to Mohegan Sun. The properties are owned by MTIC Acquisitions, L.L.C., a Connecticut limited liability company controlled by the Tribe. The properties are used for providing access and/or parking for Mohegan Sun.

In connection with the purchase of the Pocono Downs entities, we acquired Pocono Downs, a harness racing facility located on approximately 400 acres of land in Plains Township, Pennsylvania. The harness racing facility is currently one of only two harness racetracks in Pennsylvania and one of only four thoroughbred and harness racing facilities in the state. It has a 5/8 mile all-weather, lighted track with seating for approximately 3,500 and parking capacity for approximately 6,500. Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs, the first slot machine facility in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, was opened at the Pocono Downs racetrack in November 2006. In addition, we also acquired the OTW facilities located in Carbondale, Erie (which was subsequently sold to a third party in July 2007), and Lehigh Valley (Allentown), and we lease the East Stroudsburg and Hazleton facilities. The Lehigh Valley (Allentown) OTW is a 28,000 square-foot facility and is the largest OTW in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Salishan-Mohegan owns land in Clark County, Washington for the purposes of developing a casino to be owned by the Cowlitz Indian Tribe. Mohegan Ventures-NW, one of three members in Salishan-Mohegan, is our wholly-owned subsidiary. The Mohegan Tribe is also a member of Salishan-Mohegan. The land shall be

 

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transferred to the Cowlitz Tribe or the United States upon: (1) receipt of necessary financing for the development of the proposed casino; and (2) the underlying property being accepted to be taken into trust by the United States Department of the Interior.

In November 2006, we formed a wholly owned subsidiary, Mohegan Golf to purchase and operate a golf course in southeastern Connecticut. In May 2007, Mohegan Golf acquired substantially all of the assets of Pautipaug Country Club Inc., which included a golf course located in Sprague and Franklin, Connecticut. The club was renamed Mohegan Sun Country Club at Pautipaug and opened for the season in June 2007.

Item 3. Legal Proceedings

We are a defendant in litigation incurred in our normal course of business. We believe that, based on the advice of counsel, the aggregate liability, if any, arising from such litigation will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

As the successor owner of Downs Racing, we were involved in a dispute with the Wilkes-Barre Area School District, which had filed an appeal in November 2001 against Downs Racing’s predecessor company, Pocono Downs, Inc., and the Luzerne County Board of Assessment Appeals relating to certain property tax assessments. The school district challenged the certified assessment for the tax year 2002, and sought an increase to the assessed value of that property for 2002 and subsequent tax years, including additional assessments for tax year 2007. A final settlement of the dispute was reached in June 2007 between the various parties in the litigation and the settlement was subsequently approved by the Luzerne County Court. Based on the settlement, our liability for this litigation covering tax periods through June 30, 2007 was approximately $3.5 million, which is recorded in our income from operations for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007. We will continue to make agreed upon payments with the Wilkes-Barre Area School District for each tax year through 2015. The total amount of these payments is $18.2 million.

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

None.

 

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PART II

Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

We have not issued or sold any equity securities.

Item 6. Selected Financial Data

The selected financial data shown below for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005 and as of September 30, 2007 and 2006, have been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements included in this Form 10-K. The selected financial data set forth below for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2004 and 2003 and as of September 30, 2005, 2004 and 2003 have been derived from our audited financial statements for those years, which are not included in this Form 10-K. The financial information shown below should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and related notes beginning on page F-1 of this Form 10-K, the section entitled “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and the other financial and statistical data included in this Form 10-K. Amounts shown in the following table are in thousands.

 

     As of or for the Fiscal Years Ended September 30,  
     2007    2006     2005    2004     2003  

Operating Results:

            

Gross revenues

   $ 1,751,912    $ 1,547,971     $ 1,454,066    $ 1,367,933     $ 1,280,440  

Promotional allowances

     (131,846)      (124,917)       (125,148)      (111,007)       (102,952)  
                                      

Net revenues

   $ 1,620,066    $ 1,423,054     $ 1,328,918    $ 1,256,926     $ 1,177,488  
                                      

Income from operations (1)

   $ 292,568    $ 249,232     $ 139,136    $ 246,617     $ 241,333  

Total other expense (2)

     (120,670)      (94,882) (3)     (116,211)      (143,748) (4)     (145,648) (5)
                                      

Income from continuing operations before minority interests

     171,898      154,350       22,925      102,869       95,685  

Minority interests

     648      420       514      18       —    
                                      

Income from continuing operations

     172,546      154,770       23,439      102,887       95,685  

Total income from discontinued operations (6)

     21      147       228      —         —    
                                      

Net income

   $ 172,567    $ 154,917     $ 23,667    $ 102,887     $ 95,685  
                                      

Other Data:

            

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest

   $ 94,363    $ 90,928     $ 88,011    $ 78,970     $ 83,492  

Capital expenditures

   $ 162,195    $ 101,920     $ 50,991    $ 30,680     $ 30,277  

Net cash flows provided by operating activities

   $ 286,089    $ 250,877     $ 247,075    $ 214,805     $ 195,484  

Balance Sheet Data:

            

Total assets

   $ 2,079,977    $ 1,914,357     $ 1,856,868    $ 1,579,705     $ 1,658,511  

Long-term debt and capital lease obligations

   $ 1,276,109    $ 1,225,804     $ 1,226,348    $ 1,003,051     $ 1,101,649  

(1) Total operating costs and expenses included in income from operations includes non-cash relinquishment liability reassessment charges of $3.0 million, $39.4 million, $123.6 million and $3.9 million for the 2007, 2006, 2005 and 2004 fiscal years, and a non-cash relinquishment liability reassessment credit of $22.7 million for the 2003 fiscal year. A discussion of this charge and our accounting for the relinquishment liability may be found under Notes 2 and 14 to our audited consolidated financial statements beginning on page F-1 of this Form 10-K.

 

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(2) For the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, and 2003, total other expense includes $29.8 million, $30.7 million, $27.5 million, $29.9 million and $33.6 million, respectively, for the accretion of discount to the relinquishment liability to reflect the impact of the time value of money. A discussion of our accounting for the relinquishment liability may be found under Notes 2 and 14 to our audited consolidated financial statements beginning on page F-1 of this Form 10-K.
(3) Includes a non-cash gain of $24.5 million from a settlement on the Pocono Downs purchase agreement in August 2006. A discussion of this transaction may be found under Note 13 to our audited consolidated financial statements beginning on page F-1 of this Form 10-K.
(4) Includes a loss on extinguishment of debt of $34.1 million. The loss is comprised of a tender premium of $31.0 million, a write-off of unamortized debt issuance costs of $3.5 million and other transaction costs of approximately $1.1 million, offset by a net gain of $1.5 million from the recognition of the remaining net deferred gain on the sale of related derivative instruments.
(5) Includes a loss on extinguishment of debt of $27.4 million. The loss is comprised of a tender premium of $22.8 million, a write-off of unamortized debt issuance costs of $4.4 million and other transaction costs of approximately $200,000.
(6) A discussion of our accounting for discontinued operations may be found under Note 17 to our audited consolidated financial statements beginning on page F-1 of this Form 10-K.

Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation

The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the related notes beginning on page F-1 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and “Item 6. Selected Financial Data” and “Part I. Item 1. Business.”

Overview

The Tribe and the Authority

The Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut, or the Mohegan Tribe or the Tribe, is a federally recognized Indian tribe with an approximately 507-acre reservation situated in southeastern Connecticut, adjacent to Uncasville, Connecticut. Under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988, or IGRA, federally recognized Indian tribes are permitted to conduct full-scale casino gaming operations on tribal lands, subject to, among other things, the negotiation of a gaming compact with the state in which they operate. The Tribe and the State of Connecticut have entered into such a compact, the Mohegan Compact, which has been approved by the United States Secretary of the Interior. We were established as an instrumentality of the Tribe, with the exclusive power to conduct and regulate gaming activities on tribal lands and the non-exclusive authority to conduct such activities elsewhere. Our gaming operation at Mohegan Sun is one of only two legally authorized gaming operations in New England offering traditional slot machines and table games. Through our subsidiary, Downs Racing, L.P., we also own Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs, or Pocono Downs, a gaming and entertainment facility offering slot machines and harness racing in Plains Township, Pennsylvania, and several off-track wagering, or OTW, facilities located elsewhere in Pennsylvania, of which one referred to in Note 17 to our consolidated financial statements has been sold to a third party. We are governed by a nine-member Management Board, whose members also comprise the Mohegan Tribal Council (the governing body of the Tribe). Any change in the composition of the Mohegan Tribal Council results in a corresponding change in our Management Board.

Mohegan Sun

In October 1996, we opened a gaming and entertainment complex known as Mohegan Sun. Mohegan Sun is located on a 185-acre site on the Tribe’s reservation overlooking the Thames River with direct access from Interstate 395 and Connecticut Route 2A via a four-lane access road. Mohegan Sun is approximately 125 miles from New York City and approximately 100 miles from Boston, Massachusetts. In fiscal year 2002, we

 

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completed a major expansion of Mohegan Sun known as Project Sunburst. The first phase of Project Sunburst, the Casino of the Sky, which included increased gaming, restaurant and retail space and an entertainment arena, opened in September 2001. The remaining components, including the approximately 1,200-room luxury Sky hotel and approximately 100,000 square feet of convention space, were fully opened in June 2002.

Mohegan Sun operates in an approximately 3.0 million square-foot facility, which includes the following:

Casino of the Earth

As of September 30, 2007, the Casino of the Earth had approximately 188,000 square feet of gaming space and offered:

 

   

approximately 3,775 slot machines and 210 table games (including blackjack, roulette, craps and baccarat);

 

   

food and beverage amenities, including the Birches Bar & Grill, a 285-seat full-service restaurant and bar, three full-service themed fine dining restaurants, with a fourth area featuring cuisine from all three adjacent restaurant themes, a 610-seat buffet, a ten-station food court featuring international and domestic cuisine, “Hong Kong” Street food outlet offering authentic Southeast Asian cuisine and multiple service bars, all operated by us, for a current total of approximately 1,700 restaurant seats;

 

   

an approximately 10,000 square-foot, 410-seat lounge featuring live entertainment seven days a week;

 

   

an approximately 11,000 square-foot simulcasting race book facility; and

 

   

five retail shops providing shopping opportunities ranging from Mohegan Sun logo souvenirs to cigars.

Casino of the Sky

As of September 30, 2007, the Casino of the Sky had approximately 119,000 square feet of gaming space and offered:

 

   

approximately 2,410 slot machines and 120 table games (including blackjack, roulette, craps and baccarat);

 

   

food and beverage amenities, including two full-service restaurants, two quick-service restaurants, a 24-hour coffee shop, a 320-seat buffet and five lounges and bars operated by us, as well as four full-service restaurants, three quick-service restaurants and a multi-station food court operated by third parties, for a total of approximately 2,600 restaurant seats;

 

   

Mohegan After Dark, consisting of a nightclub, a lounge and a pub, all operated by a third party;

 

   

the Mohegan Sun Arena with seating for up to 10,000;

 

   

a 350-seat Cabaret;

 

   

the Shops at Mohegan Sun containing 32 different retail shops, eight of which we own;

 

 

 

an approximately 1,200-room luxury hotel with a private high limit table games suite on the 36th floor;

 

   

an approximately 20,000 square-foot spa operated by a third party;

 

   

approximately 100,000 square feet of convention space; and

 

   

a child care facility and an arcade style entertainment area operated by a third party.

Mohegan Sun has parking spaces for approximately 13,000 guests and 3,100 employees. In addition, we operate a gasoline and convenience center, an approximately 4,000 square foot, 20-pump facility located adjacent to Mohegan Sun.

 

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Project Horizon

We have undertaken a major expansion of Mohegan Sun, known as Project Horizon. Project Horizon consists of four major components (Sunrise Square, Property Infrastructure, Casino of the Wind and the Earth Expansion). The plans for Project Horizon currently include adding substantially more hotel rooms, gaming space and other new non-gaming amenities to Mohegan Sun. The total number of slot machines at Mohegan Sun is projected to increase to approximately 7,000 units, complemented by approximately 380 table games (including poker tables) when the project is completed.

Groundbreaking occurred in November 2006 with the construction of Sunrise Square, a new Asian themed gaming area, which includes a new 5,000-square-foot bus lobby, a 4,000-square-foot “Hong Kong” Street food outlet and 8,500 square feet of gaming space offering 46 table games such as Mini-Baccarat, Sic Bo and Pai Gow Poker. The gaming component of Sunrise Square partially opened in July 2007, and the remainder of the new facility opened in August 2007. The estimated cost of this component totaled $17.0 million.

The Property Infrastructure component of the project is underway and includes a 1,700-space parking garage and additional surface parking lots, site development and road improvements on or adjacent to the property. The estimated cost of this component is $101.0 million.

We are also developing the Casino of the Wind, a new gaming area adjacent to the Casino of the Sky, which is expected to include approximately 45,000 square feet of gaming space with approximately 825 slot machines, 28 table games and a themed poker room with 42 tables, as well as approximately 20,000 square feet of new dining and retail amenities, including a two-level 16,000-square-foot Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Restaurant. Groundbreaking for the Casino of the Wind occurred in June 2007, and the new casino is scheduled to open in the fall of 2008. The estimated cost of this component is $125.0 million.

Project Horizon also is planned to include the Earth Expansion, featuring the Earth hotel which is expected to include approximately 922 rooms, including approximately 261 House of Blues-themed hotel rooms and a House of Blues Foundation Room. The Earth Expansion is also planned to include new House of Blues-themed dining and entertainment amenities, including an approximately 19,400 square foot music hall. In addition, the Earth Expansion will include a special events facility, approximately 35,000 square feet of retail space, additional food and beverage facilities, including two fine-dining options, a burger restaurant, four bars, a pizzeria and a three-station food court. The Earth hotel and related facilities are expected to open in October 2010. The estimated cost of this component is $682.0 million.

Total costs for Project Horizon, inclusive of costs incurred to date for Sunrise Square and the Casino of the Wind, currently are estimated to be approximately $925.0 million. Remaining project costs are estimated to be incurred as follows: fiscal year 2008 $252.0 million, fiscal year 2009 $303.0 million, fiscal year 2010 $294.0 million and fiscal year 2011 $30.0 million.

Connecticut Sun

In January 2003, we formed a wholly owned subsidiary, the Mohegan Basketball Club LLC, or MBC, for the purpose of owning and operating a professional basketball team in the Women’s National Basketball Association, or WNBA. MBC entered into a membership agreement with the WNBA permitting it to operate the Connecticut Sun basketball team. The team plays its home games in the Mohegan Sun Arena.

Mohegan Golf

In November 2006, we formed a wholly owned subsidiary, Mohegan Golf, LLC, or Mohegan Golf, to purchase and operate a golf course in southeastern Connecticut. In May 2007, Mohegan Golf acquired substantially all of the assets of Pautipaug Country Club Inc., or PCC, which included a golf course located in

 

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Sprague and Franklin, Connecticut. Mohegan Golf incurred total acquisition costs of $4.7 million for the golf course and other items acquired from PCC. The club was renamed Mohegan Sun Country Club at Pautipaug and opened for the season in June 2007.

Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs

Through Downs Racing, we own and operate the slot machine and harness racing facility known as Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs located on approximately 400 acres in Plains Township, Pennsylvania, as well as several Pennsylvania OTWs located in Carbondale, East Stroudsburg, Hazleton and Lehigh Valley (Allentown). Harness racing has been conducted at Pocono Downs since 1965. The Lehigh Valley (Allentown) OTW is a 28,000 square-foot facility and is the largest OTW in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Another OTW in Erie, Pennsylvania was sold to a third party in July 2007 for consideration of $7.0 million in cash, pursuant to an agreement we assumed in connection with our purchase of the Pocono Downs entities.

Downs Racing completed the 2007 harness racing season at Pocono Downs in November 2007 and will continue the harness racing activities when the 2008 racing season begins in the spring of 2008. Year round simulcast pari-mutuel wagering activities also are conducted at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs and the OTW facilities. A new state of the art, pari-mutuel simulcast facility at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs opened in March 2006.

On August 7, 2006, we entered into an amendment of the Pocono Downs purchase agreement with the seller, a subsidiary of Penn National Gaming, Inc. Pursuant to the amendment, in exchange for our agreement to modify certain provisions of the purchase agreement, including the elimination of our post-closing termination rights, we will receive an aggregate refund of $30.0 million of the original purchase price for the Pocono Downs entities, payable in five annual installments of $7.0 million, $7.0 million, $6.5 million, $6.0 million and $3.5 million in November 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively. The first installment of $7.0 million was received in November 2007.

Downs Racing has secured a permanent Category One slot machine license, which permits the installation and operation of up to 3,000 slot machines at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs. Under certain circumstances, Downs Racing may be permitted to install up to a total of 5,000 slot machines at Pocono Downs. A minimum of 1,500 slot machines were required to be in operation by November 2007; however, in November 2007, the PGCB, granted Downs Racing a one-year extension to reach the 1,500 slot machine threshold.

After the satisfaction of certain regulatory conditions and the payment of a one-time slot machine license fee of $50.0 million to the PGCB in October 2006, Downs Racing was the first to offer slot machine gaming in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania when Phase I of its gaming and entertainment facility opened to the public on November 14, 2006. The total cost incurred for development of the Phase I facility was approximately $70.0 million, excluding the $50.0 million one-time slot machine license fee. The two-level casino includes 90,000 square feet of gaming space, operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week and houses approximately 1,100 new slot machines with denominations ranging from one cent to $25. The facility also offers two casino bars, a food court and a retail shop. In June 2007, renovations were completed in the current food court to accommodate the installation of approximately 80 additional slot machine gaming positions. Approximately 40 of these new positions are comprised of video blackjack units approved by the PGCB.

A Phase II gaming and entertainment facility, “Project Sunrise,” at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs is being developed on land adjacent to the existing gaming facility. When completed, the combined facility is anticipated to include approximately 2,500 slot machines, three fine dining restaurants, a 300-seat buffet, an expanded food court, retail shopping, nightlife venues, additional parking and bus amenities. Construction commenced in May 2007 with a grand opening planned in the summer of 2008. Development of Project Sunrise is anticipated to cost approximately $208.0 million.

 

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Other Diversification Projects

The Tribe has determined that it is in its long-term best interest to pursue diversification of its business interests, both directly and through us. As a result, from time to time, we and the Tribe receive and evaluate various business opportunities. These opportunities primarily include the management or ownership of, or investment in, other gaming enterprises through direct investments, acquisitions, joint venture arrangements and loan transactions. In addition to the developments described below, we and the Tribe are currently exploring other opportunities, although there is no assurance that we or the Tribe will continue to pursue any of these other opportunities or that any of them will be consummated.

Cowlitz Project

In July 2004, we formed Mohegan Ventures-Northwest, LLC, or Mohegan Ventures-NW, one of three members in Salishan-Mohegan LLC, or Salishan-Mohegan. Salishan-Mohegan was formed to participate in the development and management of a casino to be located in Clark County, Washington and owned by the Cowlitz Tribe, or the Cowlitz Project. Mohegan Ventures-NW holds a 49.15% membership interest, the Mohegan Tribe holds a 7.85% membership interest and Salishan Company, LLC, or Salishan Company, holds a 43.0% membership interest in Salishan-Mohegan. Mohegan Ventures-NW and the Mohegan Tribe each hold one of four seats on the Board of Managers of Salishan-Mohegan.

In September 2004, Salishan-Mohegan entered into development and management agreements with the Cowlitz Tribe regarding the Cowlitz Project. Under the terms of the development agreement, Salishan-Mohegan administers and oversees the planning, designing, development, construction, and furnishing, as well as providing assistance with the financing of the Cowlitz Project. The development agreement provides for certain development fees of 3% of total Project Costs, as defined in the development agreement, which are to be distributed to Mohegan Ventures–NW and the Mohegan Tribe pursuant to the Salishan-Mohegan operating agreement. As of April 2006, Salishan-Mohegan purchased the land to be used as the site for the planned casino, which will be transferred to the Cowlitz Tribe or the United States under certain conditions in the development agreement. The management agreement is for a period of seven years commencing with the opening of the planned casino, during which Salishan-Mohegan will manage, operate and maintain the planned casino. The management agreement provides for a management fee of 24% of Net Revenues, as defined in the management agreement, which approximates net income from the Cowlitz Project. Pursuant to the operating agreement, management fees will be allocated to the members of Salishan-Mohegan based on their respective membership percentages. Development of the Cowlitz Project is subject to certain governmental and regulatory approvals, including, but not limited to, negotiating a gaming compact with the State of Washington and the United States Department of the Interior accepting land into trust on behalf of the Cowlitz Tribe. The management agreement is subject to approval by the National Indian Gaming Commission, or the NIGC.

Menominee Project

In October 2004, we entered into a management agreement with the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin, or the Menominee Tribe, and the Menominee Kenosha Gaming Authority. The terms of the management agreement grant us the exclusive right and obligation to manage, operate and maintain a planned casino and destination resort to be located in Kenosha, Wisconsin, or the Menominee Project, for a period of seven years commencing with the opening of the planned casino, in consideration of a management fee of 13.4% of Net Revenues, as defined in the management agreement, which approximates net income earned from the Menominee Project. The management agreement is subject to approval by the NIGC.

In March 2007, Wisconsin Tribal Gaming, LLC, or WTG, was formed to participate in the development of the proposed casino to be owned by the Menominee Tribe. WTG consists of two members, one of which is Mohegan Ventures Wisconsin, LLC (a wholly owned subsidiary of the Authority formed in March 2007), or MVW, which holds an 85.4% membership interest in WTG, and the other is Mohegan Ventures, LLC (a wholly

 

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owned subsidiary of the Mohegan Tribe), or MV, which holds a 14.6% membership interest in WTG. Following formation in March 2007, WTG purchased the development rights for the Menominee Project, along with certain other assets, and assumed certain liabilities from Kenesah Gaming Development, LLC for consideration of $6.4 million. As a result of the purchase, the Authority and the Mohegan Tribe, through MVW and MV, respectively, will receive development fees payable to WTG of 13.4% of Available Revenue Flow, as defined in the development agreement with the Menominee Tribe and the Menominee Kenosha Gaming Authority, which approximates net income from the Menominee Project over a period of seven years following the opening of the casino. Development of the Menominee Project is subject to certain governmental and regulatory approvals, including but not limited to, the United States Department of the Interior accepting new land into trust for gaming at the project site in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

Other Projects

New York

In October 2007, through our wholly owned subsidiary, MTGA Gaming, LLC, or MTGA Gaming, we submitted a proposal to the State of New York, along with Capital Play, Inc., to manage the proposed Video Lottery Terminal, or VLT, facility at Aqueduct Racetrack in Jamaica, New York. If MTGA Gaming’s bid is selected, we would manage the proposed 4,500 VLT facility at Aqueduct Racetrack, expected to open in June 2009.

Kansas

In September 2007, MTGA Gaming, along with Olympia Gaming-KC, LLC, and RED Leg Sun, LLC, or RED, formed Leg Sun, LLC, a joint venture which was created to submit an application to the Kansas Lottery Commission for the proposed development of a gaming facility and destination resort to be named Legends Sun and located in Wyandotte County, Kansas. In accordance with the Kansas Expanded Lottery Act, which is subject to a pending constitutional challenge in Kansas state court, the project would be subject to various reviews, requirements and approvals by the Kansas Lottery Commission, which is considering several other bids for the right to develop a single resort casino in Wyandotte County.

The proposed $770.0 million Legends Sun complex would feature a wide array of attractions and amenities that include a casino with approximately 2,000 slot machines, 60 table games and 25 poker tables, a Robert Trent Jones II designed championship golf course, a luxury hotel with approximately 350 rooms, a convention and conference facility, approximately 200,000 square feet of high-end retail and approximately 200,000 square feet of residential development. If selected, we would manage the casino and related operations and RED would manage the retail and residential components of the project.

Explanation of Key Financial Statement Captions

Gross revenues

Our gross revenues are derived primarily from the following four sources:

 

   

gaming revenues, which include revenues from slot machines, table games, keno, live harness racing at Pocono Downs and racebook operations (including pari-mutuel wagering revenues from our racebook at Mohegan Sun and our Pennsylvania OTW facilities);

 

   

food and beverage revenues;

 

   

hotel revenues; and

 

   

retail, entertainment and other revenues, which include revenues from retail shops we manage and the Mohegan Sun Arena.

 

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Our largest component of revenues is gaming revenues, which is recognized as amounts wagered less prizes paid out, and is comprised primarily of revenues from our slot machines and table games at Mohegan Sun, as well as our slot machines at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs. Revenues from slot machines are the largest component of our gaming revenues. Gross slot revenues, also referred to as gross slot win, represent all amounts played in the slot machines reduced by both (1) winnings paid out and (2) slot tickets issued. Pursuant to the Mohegan Compact and requirements of our Pennsylvania Category One slot machine license, we report gross slot revenues and other statistical information related to slot machine operations to the State of Connecticut and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. On a monthly basis, we also post this information on our website at www.mtga.com.

Other commonly used terms in the discussion of revenues from slot machines include progressive slot machines, progressive jackpots, net slot revenues, slot handle, gross slot hold percentage and net slot hold percentage. Progressive slot machines retain a portion of each amount wagered and aggregate these amounts with similar amounts from other slot machines in order to create one-time winnings that are substantially larger than those paid in the ordinary course of play. We refer to such aggregated amounts as progressive jackpots. Wide-area progressive jackpot amounts are paid by a third party vendor and we remit a weekly payment to the vendor based on a percentage of the slot handle for each wide-area progressive slot machine. We accrue in-house progressive jackpot amounts until paid, and such accrued amounts are deducted from gross slot revenues, along with wide-area progressive jackpot amounts, to arrive at net slot revenues, also referred to as net slot win. Net slot revenues are included in gaming revenues in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. Slot handle is the total amount wagered by patrons on slot machines during the period. Gross slot hold percentage is the gross slot win as a percentage of slot handle. Net slot hold percentage is the net slot win as a percentage of slot handle.

Commonly used terms in the discussion of revenues from table games include table games revenues, table games drop and table games hold percentage. Table games revenues represents the closing table games inventory plus table games drop and credit slips for coins, chips or tokens returned to the casino cage, less opening table games inventory, discounts provided on patron losses, free bet coupons and chip fills to the tables. Table games drop is the total amount of cash, free bet coupons, cash advance drafts, customer deposit withdrawals, safekeeping withdrawals and credit issued at the table contained in the locked container at each gaming table. Table games hold percentage is the table games revenues as a percentage of table games drop.

Revenues from food and beverages, hotel, retail, entertainment events and other services are recognized at the time the service is performed. Minimum rental revenues that we receive pursuant to our rental lease agreements for the Shops at Mohegan Sun are recognized on a straight-line basis over the terms of the leases. Percentage rents are recognized in the period in which the tenants exceed their respective percentage rent thresholds.

Promotional allowances

We operate a program for our guests at Mohegan Sun, without membership fees, called the Mohegan Sun Player’s Club. This program provides complimentary food, beverages, hotel, retail, entertainment and other services to guests based on points that are awarded for guests’ gaming activities. These points may be used to purchase, among other things, items at the retail stores and restaurants located within Mohegan Sun, including the Shops at Mohegan Sun and the Mohegan Sun gasoline and convenience center. Points also may be used to purchase hotel services and tickets to entertainment events held at Mohegan Sun facilities. The retail value of points are included in gross revenues when redeemed at Mohegan Sun operated facilities and then deducted as promotional allowances to arrive at net revenues.

 

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We also operate a program for our guests at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs, without membership fees, called the Player’s Club. This program provides complimentary food, beverage and retail services to guests based on points that are awarded for guests’ slot machine gaming activities. These points may be used to purchase items at the retail store and dining outlets located within Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs. The retail value of points are included in gross revenues when redeemed at Pocono Downs and then deducted as promotional allowances to arrive at net revenues.

We also have ongoing promotional programs which offer coupons to our guests for the purchase of food, beverage, hotel and retail amenities offered within Mohegan Sun and Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs, as applicable. The retail value of items or services purchased with coupons at Mohegan Sun operated facilities or at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs is included in gross revenues and the respective coupon value is deducted as promotional allowances to arrive at net revenues.

Gaming expenses

The largest component of gaming expenses is the portion of gross slot revenues which must be paid to the State of Connecticut and the PGCB, which are referred to as slot win contribution and slot machine tax assessments, respectively. For each 12-month period commencing July 1, 1995, the slot win contribution from Mohegan Sun is the lesser of (a) 30% of gross slot revenues, or (b) the greater of (i) 25% of gross slot revenues or (ii) $80.0 million. The current assessment of the amount payable to the PGCB on a daily basis is 55% of gross slot revenues at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs. In addition to this daily assessment, Downs Racing, L.P. must pay, on an annual basis, to the PGCB amounts necessary to ensure that the city and municipality hosting Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs will receive an annual minimum of $10.0 million from the local share assessment. The local share assessment is equal to the greater of 2.0% of annual gross slot revenues or $10.0 million.

Gaming expenses also include, among other things, expenses associated with operation of slot machines, table games, keno, live harness racing at Pocono Downs and racebook, certain marketing expenses, and promotional expenses for the Player’s Club points and coupons redeemed at our hotel, restaurants and retail outlets, as well as third party tenant restaurants and the Shops at Mohegan Sun.

Income from operations

We calculate income from operations as net revenues less total operating costs and expenses. Income from operations represents only those amounts that relate to our consolidated operations and excludes income from discontinued operations, loss on sale of discontinued operations, minority interests, accretion of discount to the relinquishment liability, relinquishment liability reassessment, interest income, interest expense and other non-operating income and expense.

Accretion of discount to the relinquishment liability and reassessment of relinquishment liability

In February 1998, we entered into a relinquishment agreement with Trading Cove Associates, or TCA. The relinquishment agreement provides that we will make certain payments to TCA out of, and determined as a percentage of, revenues (as defined in the relinquishment agreement) generated by Mohegan Sun over a 15-year period. In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards, or SFAS, No. 5, “Accounting for Contingencies,” or SFAS 5, we have recorded a relinquishment liability of the estimated present value of our obligations under the relinquishment agreement. We reassess projected revenues (and consequently the relinquishment liability) (i) annually in conjunction with our budgeting process and (ii) when necessary to account for material increases or decreases in projected revenues over the relinquishment period. Further, we record a quarterly accretion to the relinquishment liability to reflect the impact of the time value of money. Since there is a high level of estimates and judgments used with respect to calculating the relinquishment liability,

 

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future events that affect such estimates and judgments may cause the actual relinquishment liability to differ significantly from the estimate. In addition, we have capitalized $130.0 million of this relinquishment liability in connection with the trademark value of the Mohegan Sun brand name. Under SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” or SFAS 142, the Mohegan Sun trademark is no longer subject to amortization because it has been deemed to have an indefinite useful life. SFAS 142, however, requires the trademark to be evaluated at least annually for impairment by applying a fair-value test and, if impairment occurs, the amount of impaired trademark must be written off immediately. Refer to Note 14 to our consolidated financial statements for a further discussion of how we account for the relinquishment liability.

Results of Operation

Summary Operating Results

As of September 30, 2007, we own and operate the Mohegan Sun and Mohegan Sun Country Club properties in Connecticut and, through the Pocono Downs entities, operate a gaming and entertainment facility offering slot machines and harness racing in Plains Township, Pennsylvania, and several OTW facilities located elsewhere in Pennsylvania (one of which has been sold to a third party as described in Note 17 to our consolidated financial statements and is not reported in the below segment information related to Pocono Downs). All of our revenues are derived from these operations. Our executive officers review and assess the performance of the operating results and determine the proper allocation of resources to the Mohegan Sun entities in Connecticut, which include the Connecticut Sun WNBA franchise, and the Pocono Downs entities in Pennsylvania on a separate basis. We therefore believe that we have two operating segments, one comprised solely of Mohegan Sun, which includes the operations of the Connecticut entities, and another, referred to as “Pocono Downs,” comprised of the operations of the Pocono Downs entities. The two operating segments are also separate reportable segments due to the differing nature of their operations. See Note 18 to the consolidated financial statements for financial information about the segments.

The following tables summarize our results from operations on a property basis (in thousands):

 

    For the Fiscal Years Ended September 30,  
                      Dollar Variance     Percentage
Variance
 
    2007 (1)     2006     2005     07 vs. 06   06 vs. 05     07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05  

Net revenues:

             

Mohegan Sun

  $ 1,430,560     $ 1,392,958     $ 1,305,686     $ 37,602   $ 87,272     2.7 %   6.7 %

Pocono Downs

    189,506       30,096       23,232       159,410     6,864     529.7 %   29.5 %
                                                 

Total

  $ 1,620,066     $ 1,423,054     $ 1,328,918     $ 197,012   $ 94,136     13.8 %   7.1 %

Income (loss) from operations:

             

Mohegan Sun

  $ 287,017     $ 267,415     $ 150,914     $ 19,602   $ 116,501     7.3 %   77.2 %

Pocono Downs

    16,137       (7,547 )     (295 )     23,684     (7,252 )   -313.8 %   2458 %

Corporate expenses

    (10,586 )     (10,636 )     (11,483 )     50     847     -0.5 %   -7.4 %
                                                 

Total

  $ 292,568     $ 249,232     $ 139,136     $ 43,336   $ 110,096     17.4 %   79.1 %

Net income

  $ 172,567     $ 154,917     $ 23,667     $ 17,650   $ 131,250     11.4 %   554.6 %

(1) Includes operating results of Phase I slot facility at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs from opening date of November 14, 2006 to September 30, 2007.

The important factors and trends that most contributed to our financial performance for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005 are as follows:

 

   

the opening of the Phase I slot facility at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs in November 2006, which generated gross slot revenues of $157.2 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007;

 

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the strengthening of the Mohegan Sun brand awareness in the Northeast gaming market, which is reflected above in the Mohegan Sun net revenue growth rates for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005;

 

   

a successful table games marketing program targeting high limit players at Mohegan Sun, which is partially attributable to the strong results of the private table games suite that was opened in the Sky hotel in June 2006 and the semi-private gaming area that was opened in the Cabaret lounge in February 2007;

 

   

successful marketing programs and promotional events at Mohegan Sun designed to increase targeted repeat patron visitation;

 

   

increased competition in the Northeast gaming market from newly opened VLT facility at Yonkers Raceway in Yonkers, New York and the recently expanded Twin River facility in Lincoln, Rhode Island, which contributed to the decrease in the growth rate of gross slot revenues at Mohegan Sun for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007;

 

   

a slow down in the regional economy which contributed to the decrease in the growth rate of gross slot revenues at Mohegan Sun for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007;

 

   

the continued utilization of technologies to improve the productivity and efficiencies of our Mohegan Sun labor force; and

 

   

the optimization of hotel occupancy through offers of promotional room rates to Player’s Club members, which we believe led to higher gaming and non-gaming revenues that more than offset the decline in hotel revenues.

The other non-recurring factors that affected our financial performance for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005 are as follows:

 

   

a $3.5 million charge recorded in the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 in connection with a settlement of litigation related to the assessment of property taxes at the Pocono Downs facility;

 

   

the non-cash relinquishment liability reassessment charges of $3.0 million, $39.4 million and $123.6 million for the fiscal years 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively; and

 

   

the non-cash non-operating gain of $24.5 million from a settlement on the Pocono Downs purchase agreement discussed above under “Overview-Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs,” which resulted in a significant non-recurring increase in net income for the 2006 fiscal year.

Net revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 increased compared to the prior fiscal year primarily as a result of the addition of slot revenues at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs from the opening of the Phase I slot facility on November 14, 2006, as well as a the increase in gaming revenues at Mohegan Sun discussed below.

Net revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 increased primarily as a result of a 6.2% growth in gaming and a 5.3% growth in non-gaming revenues at Mohegan Sun, and an increase in net revenues associated with a full year of operations at Pocono Downs and the OTWs acquired in January 2005. The increase in net revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 was also due to a decrease in promotional allowances discussed below under “Promotional Allowances” compared to the prior fiscal year.

Income from operations for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 compared to the prior fiscal year increased as a result of the growth in net revenues, offset by an increase in operating costs and expenses of 13.1%. Our operating margin, or income from operations as a percentage of net revenues, for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 increased to 18.1% from 17.5% for the prior fiscal year, primarily due to the decrease in the non-cash relinquishment liability reassessment charge, which was $3.0 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 compared to $39.4 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006. The decrease in

 

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reassessment charge was partially offset by the opening of the Phase I slot facility at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs, which has a significantly lower operating margin than Mohegan Sun due to higher gaming tax rates assessed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Margins were also reduced by the $3.5 million charge recorded in connection with the litigation settlement discussed above and an increase in promotional programs at Mohegan Sun to offset the impact of the new slot product being added to the Northeast market also as discussed above.

Income from operations for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 compared to the prior fiscal year increased as a result of the growth in net revenues and a significant decrease in the non-cash relinquishment liability reassessment charge, as more fully described below under “Mohegan Sun-Operating Costs and Expenses.” Our operating margin for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 increased to 17.5% from 10.5% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2005. This increase was primarily due to the decrease in the non-cash relinquishment liability reassessment charge, greater employee productivity and successful cost reduction programs at Mohegan Sun, which enabled Mohegan Sun to have a 19.2% operating margin for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 compared to 11.6% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2005.

Net income for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 compared to the prior fiscal year increased primarily due to the decrease in the non-cash relinquishment liability reassessment charge and the improved operating results at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs due to the opening of the slot facility in November 2006, partially offset by a substantial decrease in other non-operating income from fiscal year 2006, which included the $24.5 million non-recurring gain recorded in connection with the price adjustment related to the acquisition of Pocono Downs as discussed above.

Net income for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 compared to the prior fiscal year increased primarily due to the increase in income from operations at Mohegan Sun and the $24.5 million gain recorded in connection with the price adjustment related to the acquisition of Pocono Downs.

Mohegan Sun

Gross Revenues

Gross revenues consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

     For the Fiscal Years Ended September 30,  
                    Dollar Variance    Percentage Variance  
     2007    2006    2005    07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05    07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05  

Gaming

   $ 1,286,915    $ 1,253,028    $ 1,179,337    $ 33,887     $ 73,691    2.7 %   6.2 %

Food and beverage

     94,905      93,713      90,264      1,192       3,449    1.3 %   3.8 %

Hotel

     47,333      50,818      50,058      (3,485 )     760    -6.9 %   1.5 %

Retail, entertainment and other

     129,658      120,316      111,175      9,342       9,141    7.8 %   8.2 %
                                                

Total

   $ 1,558,811    $ 1,517,875    $ 1,430,834    $ 40,936     $ 87,041    2.7 %   6.1 %
                                                

The table below summarizes the percentage of gross revenues from each of the four revenue sources at Mohegan Sun:

 

     For the Fiscal Years Ended September 30,      
     2007     2006     2005  

Gaming

   82.6 %   82.6 %   82.4 %

Food and beverage

   6.1 %   6.2 %   6.3 %

Hotel

   3.0 %   3.3 %   3.5 %

Retail, entertainment and other

   8.3 %   7.9 %   7.8 %
                  

Total

   100.0 %   100.0 %   100.0 %
                  

 

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The following table presents data related to gaming revenues at Mohegan Sun (in millions, except where noted):

 

     For the Fiscal Years Ended September 30,  
                       Variance     Percentage Variance  
     2007     2006     2005     07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05     07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05  

Slot handle

   $ 10,601     $ 10,540     $ 10,182     $ 61     $ 358     0.6 %   3.5 %

Gross slot revenues

   $ 922     $ 905     $ 861     $ 17     $ 44     1.9 %   5.1 %

Net slot revenues

   $ 889     $ 876     $ 834     $ 13     $ 42     1.5 %   5.0 %

Weighted average number of slot machines (in units)

     6,060       6,201       6,233       (141 )     (32 )   -2.3 %   -0.5 %

Gross slot hold percentage

     8.7 %     8.6 %     8.5 %     0.1 %     0.1 %   1.2 %   1.2 %

Gross slot win per unit per day (in dollars)

   $ 417     $ 400     $ 379     $ 17     $ 21     4.3 %   5.5 %

Table games drop

   $ 2,482     $ 2,305     $ 2,086     $ 177     $ 219     7.7 %   10.5 %

Table games revenues

   $ 386     $ 366     $ 334     $ 20     $ 32     5.5 %   9.6 %

Weighted average number of table games (in units)

     302       300       294       2       6     0.7 %   2.0 %

Table games hold percentage (1)

     15.6 %     15.9 %     16.0 %     -0.3 %     -0.1 %   -1.9 %   -0.6 %

Table games revenue per unit per day (in dollars)

   $ 3,511     $ 3,341     $ 3,114     $ 170     $ 227     5.1 %   7.3 %

(1) Table games hold percentage is relatively predictable over long periods of time, but can fluctuate significantly over shorter periods.

Gaming revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 compared to the prior fiscal year increased primarily due to continued growth in table games and slot revenues. The increase in table games revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 was principally attributable to the strengthened awareness of the Mohegan Sun brand in the northeastern United States gaming market due to enhancements in our targeted direct marketing programs, including our continued focus on high end table play with the introduction of new private and semi-private gaming space as discussed above under “Summary Operating Results.” The increase in table games revenues was also due to the continued success of our Asian marketing program, including our opening of Sunrise Square in August 2007. Gross slot revenues growth rate decreased to 1.9% for fiscal year 2007 compared to the prior fiscal year growth rate of 5.1%. The decrease in gross slot revenues growth rate was attributable to increased competition and the slow down in the regional economy, both discussed above under “Summary Operating Results.” The State of Connecticut reported total slot revenues of $1.73 billion and $1.72 billion for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively, representing an increase of 0.5% in the Connecticut market. However, Mohegan Sun increased its slot market share to 53.4% of the Connecticut market for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 as compared to 52.7% for the prior fiscal year, despite a reduction in slot machines at the Casino of the Earth due to the construction of Sunrise Square.

Gaming revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 compared to the prior fiscal year increased due to continued growth in net slot revenues and table games revenues at Mohegan Sun. The increase in net slot revenues and table games revenues, and higher win or revenue per unit for both slot machines and table games, resulted primarily from the strengthened awareness of the Mohegan Sun brand in the northeastern United States gaming market due to enhancements in our targeted direct marketing programs. The increase in gaming revenues was also due to the contribution of $11.7 million in table games revenues from the new private high limit table games suite discussed above under “Summary Operating Results.” We exceeded the Connecticut slot revenue market growth rate for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 of 2.3%, with Mohegan Sun increasing its market share to 52.7% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 from 51.3% for the prior fiscal year. The State of Connecticut reported slot revenues of $1.72 billion and $1.68 billion for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

 

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Food and beverage revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 compared to the prior fiscal year increased as a result of a $925,000 increase in food revenues due to a $1.4 million increase in banquet revenues from the Mohegan Sun convention center and the addition of new revenues from the “Hong Kong” Street food outlet in Sunrise Square, which opened in August 2007. These increases were partially offset by a shift in patron visitation from Authority-owned quick serve food outlets to third party outlets.

Food and beverage revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 compared to the prior fiscal year increased as a result of a $2.8 million increase in gross beverage revenues and a $682,000 increase in gross food revenues. The increase in beverage revenues was due primarily to an increase in the number of events and ticket sales at the Mohegan Sun Arena in fiscal 2006, as discussed below. The increase in food revenues was due to a slight increase in the number of meals served, or food covers, and the average price per meal at Mohegan Sun. The average price per meal was $13.13 and $13.09 for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

The following table presents data related to hotel revenues at Mohegan Sun:

 

     For the Fiscal Years Ended September 30,  
                       Variance     Percentage Variance  
     2007     2006     2005     07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05     07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05  

Rooms occupied

     399,500       400,200       398,600       -700       1,600     -0.2 %   0.4 %

Average daily room rate (ADR)

   $ 112     $ 120     $ 118     $ (8 )   $ 2     -6.7 %   1.7 %

Occupancy rate

     93.2 %     93.3 %     92.9 %     -0.1 %     0.4 %   -0.1 %   0.4 %

Revenue per available room (REVPAR)

   $ 104     $ 112     $ 110     $ (8 )   $ 2     -7.1 %   1.8 %

Hotel revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 compared to the prior fiscal year decreased primarily as a result of a decrease in the average daily room rate, or ADR. The decrease in ADR was the result of competitive pricing pressures in room rates offered to casino hotel guests in the Northeast gaming market. The reduction in rates was designed to maintain occupancy levels to support or improve gaming and other revenues. The decrease in hotel revenues was also partially due to a slight decrease in hotel occupancy as a result of rooms being out of service due to the $10.0 million hotel room renovation program, which began in January 2007 and was completed in June 2007.

Hotel revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 compared to the prior fiscal year increased slightly due to our yield management strategy evidenced by the increase in hotel occupancy, which we believe contributes to growth in gaming, food and beverage and retail, entertainment and other revenues at Mohegan Sun.

Retail, entertainment and other revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 compared to the prior fiscal year increased primarily as a result of a $3.9 million, or 8.4%, increase in entertainment revenues. The increase in entertainment revenues was primarily due to a 5.5% increase in average ticket price for Mohegan Sun Arena events and a 2.0% increase in overall ticket sales at the Arena due to an increased number of headliner shows. The increase in retail, entertainment and other revenues was also the result of a $1.5 million, or 16.0%, increase in rental revenue from the Shops at Mohegan Sun due to higher rent paid by new tenants, particularly the Coach outlet; a $1.4 million, or 6.2%, increase in gasoline revenues at the Mohegan Sun gasoline and convenience center related to free coupon promotional programs during the fiscal year, which do not have an effect on net revenues; and a $1.7 million, or 4.2%, increase in retail and other revenues from miscellaneous amenities available to our patrons at Mohegan Sun.

Retail, entertainment and other revenues increased for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 compared to the prior fiscal year as a result of an increase in entertainment revenues of $16.1 million, or 52.8%, offset by a

 

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decrease in retail revenues of $6.4 million, or 10.7%, due to changes in promotions offered to Mohegan Sun Player’s Club members. The increase in entertainment revenues was primarily due to a 30.6% increase in Mohegan Sun Arena ticket sales and a 21.6% increase in average price for Arena tickets due to an increased number of headliner shows.

Promotional Allowances

The retail value of providing promotional allowances is included in revenues as follows (in thousands):

 

     For the Fiscal Years Ended September 30,  
                    Dollar Variance     Percentage Variance  
     2007    2006    2005    07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05     07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05  

Food and beverage

   $ 45,591    $ 46,894    $ 44,757    $ (1,303 )   $ 2,137     -2.8 %   4.8 %

Hotel

     16,385      17,356      16,292      (971 )     1,064     -5.6 %   6.5 %

Retail, entertainment and other

     66,275      60,667      64,099      5,608       (3,432 )   9.2 %   -5.4 %
                                                 

Total

   $ 128,251    $ 124,917    $ 125,148    $ 3,334     $ (231 )   2.7 %   -0.2 %
                                                 

The estimated cost of providing promotional allowances is included in operating costs and expenses, primarily gaming, as follows (in thousands):

 

     For the Fiscal Years Ended September 30,  
                    Dollar Variance     Percentage Variance  
     2007    2006    2005    07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05     07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05  

Food and beverage

   $ 46,427    $ 48,352    $ 44,877    $ (1,925 )   $ 3,475     -4.0 %   7.7 %

Hotel

     8,866      8,734      7,731      132       1,003     1.5 %   13.0 %

Retail, entertainment and other

     53,790      46,874      49,372      6,916       (2,498 )   14.8 %   -5.1 %
                                                 

Total

   $ 109,083    $ 103,960    $ 101,980    $ 5,123     $ 1,980     4.9 %   1.9 %
                                                 

Promotional allowances increased for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 compared to the prior fiscal year due primarily to an increase in marketing programs targeting customers in New York and Rhode Island, where expanded VLT facilities opened during the fiscal year, partially offset by a net shift in the utilization of patron complimentaries from Authority-owned outlets to third party outlets.

Promotional allowances decreased for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 compared to the prior fiscal year as a result of a significant decrease in retail complimentaries due to a reduction in gas and other retail coupons offered to casino patrons, offset by: 1) increased redemption of entertainment complimentaries resulting from higher attendance and retail prices of tickets due to the increased number of headliner shows at the Mohegan Sun Arena as discussed above; 2) an increase in food and beverage complimentaries due to the increase in attendance at the Arena and a change in promotional programs to offer more food and beverage complimentaries and offer less retail complimentaries as discussed above; and 3) an increase in hotel complimentaries due to our yield management strategy.

 

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Operating Costs and Expenses

Operating costs and expenses consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

     For the Fiscal Years Ended September 30,  
                    Dollar Variance     Percentage Variance  
     2007    2006    2005    07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05     07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05  

Gaming

   $ 736,492    $ 700,674    $ 668,865    $ 35,818     $ 31,809     5.1 %   4.8 %

Food and beverage

     45,384      47,182      43,328      (1,798 )     3,854     -3.8 %   8.9 %

Hotel

     16,959      16,883      16,114      76       769     0.5 %   4.8 %

Retail, entertainment and other

     47,010      42,471      34,824      4,539       7,647     10.7 %   22.0 %

Advertising, general and administrative

     211,643      193,533      182,110      18,110       11,423     9.4 %   6.3 %

Pre-opening costs and expenses

     445      —        —        445       —       100.0 %   —    

Depreciation and amortization

     82,613      85,394      85,907      (2,781 )     (513 )   -3.3 %   -0.6 %

Relinquishment liability reassessment

     2,997      39,407      123,624      (36,410 )     (84,217 )   -92.4 %   -68.1 %
                                                 

Total

   $ 1,143,543    $ 1,125,544    $ 1,154,772    $ 17,999     $ (29,228 )   1.6 %   -2.5 %
                                                 

Gaming costs and expenses increased for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 compared to the prior fiscal year primarily as a result of higher redemption costs due to an increase in the utilization of Player’s Club points and promotional coupons at third party outlets; increased direct labor, due to market driven compensation adjustments, and medical insurance costs; and higher casino marketing, advertising and promotional expenses. The increase in gaming costs and expenses for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 was also due to higher slot win contribution to the State of Connecticut commensurate with the growth in gross slot revenues during the fiscal year, as well as an increase in non-gaming complimentaries redeemed by casino patrons at Authority-owned outlets. Slot win contribution payments totaled $230.4 million and $226.3 million for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively. As a result of the cost increases mentioned above, gaming costs and expenses as a percentage of gaming revenues increased to 57.2% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 from 55.9% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006.

Gaming costs and expenses increased for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 compared to the prior fiscal year primarily as a result of higher labor costs, slot win contribution to the State of Connecticut and other operating costs commensurate with higher gaming revenues, increased costs related to a higher amount of certain complimentaries and special promotions offered to casino patrons and enhancements in our targeted direct marketing programs, partially offset by a decrease in outside retail redemption costs due to changes in promotional programs offered to casino patrons. The increase in labor costs included an increase in bonus expenses as a result of our successful fiscal 2006 operating results and in commemoration of the casino’s ten-year anniversary. Slot win contribution payments totaled $226.3 million and $215.2 million for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2006 and 2005, respectively. Despite the increases mentioned above, efficiencies achieved in Mohegan Sun gaming operations caused gaming costs and expenses as a percentage of gaming revenues to decrease from 56.7% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2005 to 55.9% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006.

Food and beverage costs and expenses decreased for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 compared to the prior fiscal year primarily as a result of a decrease in cost of goods sold and other operating costs, partially offset by higher medical insurance costs and a lower amount of food and beverage complimentaries resulting in a decreased amount of food and beverage costs being allocated to gaming costs and expenses.

 

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Food and beverage costs and expenses increased for fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 compared to the prior fiscal year due to higher direct labor and other operating costs to support the increase in food and beverage revenues and the continuous improvements of our food and beverage services at Mohegan Sun. The increase in food and beverage costs and expenses was partially offset by a higher amount of food and beverage costs being allocated to gaming costs and expenses for food and beverage complimentaries provided to casino patrons.

Hotel costs and expenses increased for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 compared to the prior fiscal year primarily as a result of higher direct labor, due to market driven compensation adjustments and medical insurance costs. The increase was partially offset by a $1.0 million charge in the prior fiscal year for inventory obsolescence which did not recur in fiscal year 2007.

Hotel costs and expenses increased for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 compared to the prior fiscal year as a result of increased labor and other operating costs, including significant costs for the replacement of hotel room supplies, partially offset by increased hotel complimentaries, resulting in a higher amount of hotel costs and expenses being allocated to gaming costs and expenses.

Retail, entertainment and other costs and expenses increased for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 compared to the prior fiscal year due to a substantial increase in direct entertainment costs related to the higher number of headliner shows at the Arena as discussed above. The increase was also a result of increased cost of goods sold for the gas coupon promotion, partially offset by increased retail and entertainment complimentaries, resulting in a higher amount of retail, entertainment and other costs and expenses being allocated to gaming costs and expenses.

Retail, entertainment and other costs and expenses increased for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 compared to the prior fiscal year primarily due to a substantial increase in entertainment expenses due to the increased number of headliner shows at the Arena, partially offset by a decrease in retail expenses due to the change in promotional programs offered to casino patrons and an increase in entertainment complimentaries, resulting in a higher amount of entertainment costs and expenses being allocated to gaming costs and expenses.

Advertising, general and administrative costs and expenses increased for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 compared to the prior fiscal year primarily as a result of increased property maintenance, utilities, direct labor, medical insurance and other costs necessary to support Mohegan Sun operations, as well as significant one-time costs, such as furniture refurbishment and new bed linens, related to the Sky hotel room renovation program. The increase was also due to greater advertising expenditures from the production of new television commercials and approximately $2.0 million of additional costs associated with the Mohegan Sun ten-year anniversary festivities for employees and casino patrons.

Advertising, general and administrative costs and expenses increased for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 compared to the prior fiscal year primarily as a result of increased labor, utility costs, property maintenance and other costs necessary to support Mohegan Sun operations.

Pre-opening costs and expenses for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 were comprised of personnel, consulting and other costs associated with the development plans for Project Horizon, as described above under “Overview-Mohegan Sun.” There were no pre-opening costs and expenses for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006.

Relinquishment liability reassessment for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 decreased significantly compared to the reassessment in the prior fiscal year. The relinquishment liability reassessment charge in fiscal year 2007 was the result of our review of current revenue forecasts, including the estimated timing and extent of future competition and other factors, which led to increased revenue projections for the period in which the relinquishment agreement applies, as more fully described below.

 

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Our accounting policy is to reassess the relinquishment liability at least annually in conjunction with our budgeting process or upon an event which, in our estimation, would materially increase or decrease projected revenues over the relinquishment period. Based on our updated projections for Project Horizon and delayed competition in the Northeast gaming market, both having the effect of increasing estimated future Mohegan Sun revenues, we concluded that projected revenues from Mohegan Sun subject to the relinquishment agreement over the remaining relinquishment period, which expires on December 31, 2014, would increase by approximately $139.8 million, thereby increasing the related relinquishment liability and causing the Authority to record a non-cash relinquishment liability charge of $3.0 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007.

Relinquishment liability reassessment for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 decreased significantly compared to the reassessment in the prior fiscal year, which had the effect of substantially decreasing operating expenses. The relinquishment liability reassessment charge in fiscal year 2006 was the result of our review of current revenue forecasts, including the estimated timing and extent of future competition, which led to increased revenue projections for the period in which the relinquishment agreement applies. In October 2006, our Management Board approved an expansion of Mohegan Sun referred to as “Project Horizon.” As a result of this decision and a review of potential competition in the Northeast gaming market impacting future Mohegan Sun revenues, we concluded that projected revenues from Mohegan Sun subject to the relinquishment agreement over the remaining period of the agreement, would increase by approximately $878.2 million, thereby increasing the related relinquishment liability, resulting in a non-cash relinquishment liability charge of $39.4 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006.

Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs

Gross Revenues

Gross revenues consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

     For the Fiscal Years Ended September 30,  
                    Dollar Variance    Percentage
Variance
 
     2007 (1)    2006    2005 (2)    07 vs. 06    06 vs. 05    07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05  

Gaming

   $ 182,428    $ 26,807    $ 20,486    $ 155,621    $ 6,321    580.5 %   30.9 %

Food and beverage

     7,192      2,073      1,730      5,119      343    246.9 %   19.8 %

Retail and other

     3,481      1,216      1,016      2,265      200    186.3 %   19.7 %
                                               

Total

   $ 193,101    $ 30,096    $ 23,232    $ 163,005    $ 6,864    541.6 %   29.5 %
                                               

(1) Includes operating results of Phase I slot facility at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs from opening date of November 14, 2006 to September 30, 2007.
(2) Period from date of inception (January 25, 2005) to September 30, 2005.

The table below summarizes the percentage of gross revenues from each of the three revenue sources at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs:

 

     For the Fiscal Years Ended September 30,  
           2007 (1)             2006             2005 (2)        

Gaming

   94.5 %   89.1 %   88.2 %

Food and beverage

   3.7 %   6.9 %   7.4 %

Retail and other

   1.8 %   4.0 %   4.4 %
                  

Total

   100.0 %   100.0 %   100.0 %
                  

(1) Includes operating results of Phase I slot facility at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs from opening date of November 14, 2006 to September 30, 2007.
(2) Period from date of inception (January 25, 2005) to September 30, 2005.

 

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The following table presents data related to gaming revenues at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs (in thousands, except where noted):

 

     For the Fiscal Years Ended September 30,
                     Variance      Percentage Variance  
     2007 (1)     2006    2005    07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05    07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05

Slot handle

   $ 1,690,417     $ —      $ —      $ 1,690,417     $ —      100.0 %   —  

Gross slot revenues

   $ 157,185     $ —      $ —      $ 157,185     $ —      100.0 %   —  

Net slot revenues

   $ 156,031     $ —      $ —      $ 156,031     $ —      100.0 %   —  

Weighted average number of slot machines (in units)

     1,142       —        —        1,142       —      100.0 %   —  

Gross slot hold percentage

     9.3 %     —        —        9.3 %     —      100.0 %   —  

Gross slot win per unit per day (in dollars)

   $ 429     $ —      $ —      $ 429     $ —      100.0 %   —  

(1) Includes operating results of Phase I slot facility at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs from opening date of November 14, 2006 to September 30, 2007.

Gaming revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 compared to the prior fiscal year increased as a result of the addition of $156.0 million in net slot revenues due to the opening of the Phase I slot facility. The increase in food and beverage revenues and retail and other revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 compared to the prior fiscal year was also attributable to the opening of the Phase I slot operation, which resulted in increased patron visitation to food and beverage and retail outlets at the facility.

Gaming revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 compared to the prior fiscal year increased due to an increase in harness racing and off-track wagering revenues as a result of a full year of operations at Pocono Downs and the OTW facilities acquired in January 2005. The increase in food and beverage revenues and retail and other revenues for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 compared to the prior fiscal year was also a result of a full year of operations of the food and beverage outlets at the Pocono Downs properties.

Promotional Allowances

The retail value of providing promotional allowances is included in revenues as follows (in thousands):

 

     For the Fiscal Years Ended September 30,
                    Dollar Variance    Percentage Variance
     2007 (1)    2006    2005    07 vs. 06    06 vs. 05    07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05

Food and beverage

   $ 2,547    $ —      $ —      $ 2,547    $ —      100.0 %  

Retail

     1,048      —        —        1,048      —      100.0 %  
                                             

Total

   $ 3,595    $ —      $ —        3,595    $ —      100.0 %  
                                             

(1) Includes operating results of Phase I slot facility at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs from opening date of November 14, 2006 to September 30, 2007.

The estimated cost of providing promotional allowances is included in gaming costs and expenses as follows (in thousands):

 

     For the Fiscal Years Ended September 30,
                    Dollar Variance    Percentage Variance
     2007 (1)    2006    2005    07 vs. 06    06 vs. 05    07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05

Food and beverage

   $ 2,816    $ —      $ —      $ 2,816    $ —      100.0 %  

Retail

     991      —        —        991      —      100.0 %  
                                             

Total

   $ 3,807    $ —      $ —      $ 3,807    $ —      100.0 %  
                                             

(1) Includes operating results of Phase I slot facility at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs from opening date of November 14, 2006 to September 30, 2007.

 

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Promotional allowances relate to the redemption at the retail store and dining outlets located at Pocono Downs of Player’s Club points that are awarded for guests’ slot machine gaming activities. The retail value of points is included in gross revenues when redeemed and then deducted as promotional allowances to arrive at net revenues.

Operating Costs and Expenses

Operating costs and expenses consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

     For the Fiscal Years Ended September 30,  
                    Dollar Variance    Percentage Variance  
     2007 (1)    2006    2005 (2)    07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05    07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05  

Gaming

   $ 133,062    $ 19,389    $ 14,113    $ 113,673     $ 5,276    586.3 %   37.4 %

Food and beverage

     5,115      2,238      1,691      2,877       547    128.6 %   32.3 %

Retail and other

     1,204      752      503      452       249    60.1 %   49.5 %

Advertising, general and administrative

     19,942      7,589      4,336      12,353       3,253    162.8 %   75.0 %

Pre-opening costs and expenses

     3,391      5,130      1,257      (1,739 )     3,873    -33.9 %   308.1 %

Depreciation and amortization

     10,655      2,545      1,627      8,110       918    318.7 %   56.4 %
                                                

Total

   $ 173,369    $ 37,643    $ 23,527    $ 135,726     $ 14,116    360.6 %   60.0 %
                                                

(1) Includes operating results of Phase I slot facility at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs from opening date of November 14, 2006 to September 30, 2007.
(2) Period from date of inception (January 25, 2005) to September 30, 2005.

Operating costs and expenses increased for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 compared to the prior fiscal year primarily as a result of higher operating costs and expenses necessary to support the slot operations, including slot machine tax assessment payments to the PGCB. The increase in operating costs and expenses was also due to the $3.5 million charge recorded in advertising, general and administrative expenses in connection with the litigation settlement, as described above under “Summary Operating Results,” partially offset by decreased pre-opening costs and expenses related to the opening of the Phase I facility. Slot machine tax assessment payments to the PGCB totaled $92.2 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007. The increase in depreciation and amortization expenses for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 compared to the prior fiscal year was principally due to the commencement of depreciation on the new Phase I facility and related slot machines and equipment placed in service in November 2006.

Operating costs and expenses increased for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 compared to the prior fiscal year primarily as a result of a full year of operations at the Pocono Downs properties acquired in January 2005. The increase in operating costs and expenses was also due to increased personnel, consulting and other pre-opening costs and expenses associated with the opening of the Phase I slot facility.

 

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Corporate Expenses and Other Income (Expense)

Corporate expenses and other income (expense) consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

    For the Fiscal Years Ended September 30,  
                      Dollar Variance     Percentage Variance  
    2007     2006     2005     07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05     07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05  

Corporate expenses:

             

Depreciation

  $ 79     $ 77     $ 18     $ 2     $ 59     2.6 %   327.8 %

Corporate expenses

    10,507       10,558       11,465       (51 )     (907 )   -0.5 %   -7.9 %
                                                   

Total corporate expenses

  $ 10,586     $ 10,635     $ 11,483     $ (49 )   $ (848 )   -0.5 %   -7.4 %
                                                   

Other income (expense):

             

Accretion of discount to the relinquishment liability (1)

  $ (29,794 )   $ (30,707 )   $ (27,466 )   $ 913     $ (3,241 )   -3.0 %   11.8 %

Interest income (2)

    3,695       2,245       673       1,450       1,572     64.6 %   233.6 %

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest

    (94,363 )     (90,928 )     (88,011 )     (3,435 )     (2,917 )   3.8 %   3.3 %

Loss on early extinguishment of debt (3)

    —         —         (280 )     —         280     —       -100.0 %

Write off of debt issuance costs (4)

    (71 )     —         —         (71 )     —       100 %   —    

Other income (expense), net

    (137 )(5)     24,508       (1,127 )(5)     (24,645 )     25,635     -100.6 %   -2274.6 %
                                                   

Total other expense, net

  $ (120,670 )   $ (94,882 )   $ (116,211 )   $ (25,788 )   $ 21,329     27.2 %   -18.4 %
                                                   

(1) Our accretion of the discount to the relinquishment liability reflects the accretion of the discount to the present value of the relinquishment liability for the impact of the time value of money.
(2) Comprised primarily of interest earned on long-term receivables from the Menominee Tribe related to the Menominee Project and the Cowlitz Tribe related to the Cowlitz Project, both more fully described in Notes 4 and 16, respectively, to our consolidated financial statements included in this form 10-K.
(3) Represents the loss associated with the repayment of our term loan under the then existing bank credit facility.
(4) Represents the unamortized debt issuance costs written off upon the termination of our $450.0 million bank credit facility in March 2007.
(5) Represents primarily a loss on disposal of property and equipment.

Corporate costs and expenses for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007 and 2006 were comparable. Corporate costs and expenses decreased for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 compared to the prior fiscal year primarily as a result of reduced headcount, professional costs related to compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and other corporate expenditures.

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest, increased for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 compared to the prior fiscal year due to an increase in the weighted average outstanding debt, partially offset by the capitalization of $1.7 million in interest costs associated with Project Horizon at Mohegan Sun and the Phase I slot facility and Project Sunrise at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs. The weighted average outstanding debt was $1.30 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 compared to $1.25 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006. The increase in weighted average outstanding debt was the result of additional borrowing for the payment of the $50.0 million slot license fee at Pocono Downs and capital expenditures at Mohegan Sun

 

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and Pocono Downs, all described below under “Liquidity, Capital Resources and Capital Spending—Capital Expenditures.” The weighted average interest rate was 7.4% for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007 and 2006.

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest, increased for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 compared to the prior fiscal year primarily due to increases in weighted average outstanding debt and weighted average interest rate, partially offset by the capitalization of $1.2 million in interest costs during the construction phase at Pocono Downs. The weighted average outstanding debt was $1.25 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 versus $1.21 billion for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2005. The increase in weighted average outstanding debt was due to a full year of outstanding debt in fiscal 2006 related to the acquisition of Pocono Downs properties in January 2005. The weighted average interest rate was 7.4% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 compared to 7.3% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2005.

Other income for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 related primarily to the $24.5 million gain recorded in connection with the August 2006 amendment of the agreement by which we acquired Pocono Downs. Pursuant to the amendment, in exchange for our agreement to modify certain provisions of the purchase agreement, including the elimination of our post-closing termination rights, we will receive an aggregate refund of $30.0 million of the original purchase price for the Pocono Downs entities, payable in five annual installments of $7.0 million, $7.0 million, $6.5 million, $6.0 million and $3.5 million on November 14, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively. The gain recorded in fiscal year 2006 represents the present value of the payment stream for these installments.

Seasonality

The gaming industry in Connecticut is seasonal in nature, with the heaviest gaming activity often occurring at Mohegan Sun between May and August. Additionally, live harness racing activity at Pocono Downs is seasonal, with the racing season commencing on March 31st and ending in November. The overall gaming industry in Pennsylvania is also expected to be seasonal in nature. Accordingly, the results of operations for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 are not necessarily indicative of the operating results for interim periods.

Liquidity, Capital Resources and Capital Spending

Our cash flows consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

     Fiscal Years Ended September 30,  
                       Dollar Variance     Percentage Variance  
     2007     2006     2005     07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05     07 vs. 06     06 vs. 05  

Net cash provided by operating activities

   $ 286,089     $ 250,877     $ 247,075     $ 35,212     $ 3,802     14.0 %   1.5 %

Net cash used in investing activities

     (189,516 )     (100,781 )     (335,178 )     (88,735 )     234,397     88.0 %   -69.9 %

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

     (66,223 )     (147,275 )     99,734       81,052       (247,009 )   -55.0 %   -247.7 %
                                                    

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

   $ 30,350     $ 2,821     $ 11,631     $ 27,529     $ (8,810 )   975.9 %   -75.7 %
                                                    

As of September 30, 2007 and September 30, 2006 we held cash and cash equivalents of $105.6 million and $75.2 million, respectively. As a result of the cash-based nature of our business, operating cash flow levels tend to follow trends in our operating income, excluding the effects of non-cash charges, such as depreciation and amortization and relinquishment liability reassessments. The increase in cash provided by operating activities for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 is attributable primarily to the increase in operating income after adjustments for non-cash items and lower working capital requirements as compared to the prior fiscal year.

 

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Operating activities are a significant source of our cash flows. We use our cash flows provided by operating activities primarily to meet our working capital requirements, provide funding for our maintenance capital expenditures, reduce our debt, provide distributions to the Tribe, provide payments under the relinquishment agreement and, from time to time, make investments. While we do not believe that there is any trend or a likely event that would adversely impact the level of our cash flows provided by operating activities, there are numerous potential factors which may cause a substantial reduction in the amount of such cash flows, including, but not limited to, the following:

 

   

increased competition in the gaming industry, including the legalization or expansion of gaming in New England, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania (including the December 2006 approval of two Category Two slot machine facilities, one of which opened in October 2007, in the immediate market of Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs), which may result in a substantial decrease in revenue;

 

   

downturn in the economy and lack of consumer confidence, which would result in reduced spending on discretionary items such as gaming activities;

 

   

an infrastructure or transportation disruption, such as the closure of Interstate 95 through Connecticut, for an extended period of time;

 

   

a change in Connecticut or Pennsylvania state laws regarding smoking in gaming facilities; and

 

   

an act of terrorism in the United States of America.

In addition to cash generated by operating activities, we have relied on external sources of liquidity to meet our investing requirements. The increase in cash used in investing activities for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 is attributable primarily to the payment of the one-time slot machine license fee of $50.0 million to the PGCB, as discussed above under “Overview-Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs;” a $35.4 million increase in capital expenditures due to the construction projects described below under “Capital Expenditures-Capital Expenditures Incurred;” the acquisition of the Menominee Project development rights and other related assets for $6.4 million, as discussed above under “Overview-Other Diversification Projects-Menominee Project;” and the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Pautipaug Country Club Inc. for $4.7 million in total costs, as discussed above under “Overview-Other Diversification Projects-Mohegan Golf LLC.” The decrease in cash used in financing activities for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 is attributable primarily to a $78.2 million increase in total net borrowings to facilitate the payment of the $50.0 million slot license fee at Pocono Downs and capital expenditures at Mohegan Sun and Pocono Downs, partially offset by $6.8 million in debt issuance costs paid for the $1.0 billion bank credit facility, discussed below under “External Sources of Liquidity-New Bank Credit Facility.”

External Sources of Liquidity

Notes. We financed the purchase of the Pocono Downs entities and much of the costs of construction of Mohegan Sun and Pocono Downs with the net proceeds raised from the issuance of notes and borrowings under our bank credit facilities. As of September 30, 2007, we had $16.3 million outstanding in 8 3/8% senior subordinated notes due July 1, 2011 and first callable July 1, 2006, or the 2001 senior subordinated notes; $250.0 million outstanding in 8% senior subordinated notes due April 1, 2012 and first callable April 1, 2007, or the 2002 senior subordinated notes; $330.0 million outstanding in 6 3/8% senior subordinated notes due July 15, 2009, or the 2003 senior subordinated notes; $225.0 million outstanding in 7 1/8% senior subordinated notes due August 15, 2014 and first callable on August 15, 2009, or the 2004 senior subordinated notes; $250.0 million outstanding in 6 1/8% senior notes due February 15, 2013 and first callable February 15, 2009, or the 2005 senior notes; and $150.0 million outstanding in 6 7/8% senior subordinated notes due February 15, 2015 and first callable February 15, 2010, or the 2005 senior subordinated notes. MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, MCV-PA, the Pocono Downs entities, Mohegan Golf, MVW, WTG and MTGA Gaming are guarantors of each of these notes, except for the 2001 senior subordinated notes, which are guaranteed solely by MBC. Refer to Note 9 to our consolidated financial statements in this Form 10-K for a further discussion of these notes.

 

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In November 2006, Standard and Poor’s Ratings Services downgraded the credit rating on our 2005 senior notes from BB- to B+ and the credit rating on our senior subordinated notes from B+ to B, primarily to reflect an increase in our projected ratio of debt to earnings related to the additional financings needed to fund Project Horizon at Mohegan Sun and Project Sunrise at Pocono Downs. In March 2007, Moody’s Investors Services downgraded the credit rating on our 2005 senior notes from Baa2 to Baa3 based on similar factors and maintained its rating of Ba2 on our senior subordinated notes.

Prior Bank Credit Facility. On March 9, 2007, we repaid the entire outstanding $55.0 million of indebtedness under our then existing $450.0 million bank credit facility and extinguished the facility.

New Bank Credit Facility. On March 9, 2007, we entered into a new bank credit facility providing for up to $1.0 billion in borrowing capacity from a syndicate of 23 financial institutions and commercial banks, with Bank of America, N.A. serving as Administrative Agent. The new bank credit facility replaces our prior bank credit facility. The total commitment on the new facility may be increased to $1.25 billion at our option. The five-year senior secured revolving credit facility includes a $300.0 million term loan conversion provision which is triggered upon the initial accumulation of $300.0 million in total borrowings on the new bank credit facility. The term loan requires principal payments in quarterly installments of $750,000 after the conversion date until the maturity date of March 9, 2012, upon which the remaining balances outstanding on the term loan and any revolving loans are payable. As of September 30, 2007, the amount under letters of credit totaled $6.8 million, of which no amount was drawn, as discussed below under “Letters of Credit.” Inclusive of letters of credit, which reduce borrowing availability under the new bank credit facility, we had approximately $960.2 million of available borrowing under the new bank credit facility as of September 30, 2007, without taking into account covenants under the line of credit as described below.

The new bank credit facility is collateralized by a lien on substantially all of our assets, including the assets comprising Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs and a leasehold mortgage on the land previously taken into trust by the federal government and improvements which comprise Mohegan Sun. We will also be required to pledge additional assets as collateral for the new bank credit facility as we or our guarantor subsidiaries acquire them. Our obligations under the new bank credit facility are guaranteed by MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, MCV-PA, the Pocono Downs entities, Mohegan Golf, MVW, WTG and MTGA Gaming. The new bank credit facility subjects us to a number of restrictive covenants, including financial covenants. These financial covenants relate to, among other things, our permitted total debt and senior debt leverage ratios, our minimum fixed charge coverage ratio, our maximum capital expenditures and a periodic test which ensures we have sufficient liquidity under the new bank credit facility and other allowed borrowings, projected cash flows over applicable construction periods and existing cash and cash equivalents to cover planned construction expenditures. The new bank credit facility includes non-financial covenants by us and the Tribe of the type customarily found in loan agreements for similar transactions including requirements that:

 

   

the Tribe preserve its existence as a federally recognized Indian tribe;

 

   

the Tribe cause us to continually operate both the Mohegan Sun and Pocono Downs entities in compliance with all applicable laws; and

 

   

except under specific conditions, limit us from selling or disposing of our assets, limit the transfer of our assets to our non-guarantor subsidiary, limit the incurrence by us and our guarantor subsidiaries of other debt or contingent obligations and limit our ability to extend credit, make investments or commingle our assets with assets of the Tribe.

As of September 30, 2007, we and the Tribe were in compliance with all of our and their respective covenant requirements in the new bank credit facility.

At our option, each advance of loan proceeds accrues interest on the basis of a base rate or on the basis of a one-month, two-month, three-month, six-month or twelve-month Eurodollar rate, plus in either case, the Applicable Rate based on our Total Leverage Ratio, as each term is defined in the new bank credit facility, at the

 

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time each loan is made. We also pay commitment fees for the unused portion of the revolving loan on a quarterly basis equal to the product obtained by multiplying the Applicable Rate for commitment fees by the average daily unused commitment for that calendar quarter. The Applicable Rate for base rate advances is between 0.000% and 1.125%, and the Applicable Rate for Eurodollar rate advances is between 1.250% and 2.375%. The Applicable Rate for commitment fees is between 0.200% and 0.350%. The base rate is the higher of Bank of America’s announced prime rate or the federal funds rate plus 0.50%. Interest on Eurodollar loans is payable at the end of each applicable interest period or quarterly in arrears, if earlier. Interest on base rate advances is payable quarterly in arrears. As of September 30, 2007, we had $33.0 million in Eurodollar rate loans and no base rate loans outstanding. The Eurodollar rate loans outstanding at September 30, 2007 were comprised of: (1) a $24.0 million loan based on a one-month Eurodollar rate of 5.75% plus an Applicable Rate of 1.25% and (2) a $9.0 million loan based on a one-month Eurodollar rate of 5.50% plus an Applicable Rate of 1.25%. The Applicable Rate for commitment fees was 0.20% as of September 30, 2007.

The initial advances under the new bank credit facility totaled $62.0 million in base rate advances under the revolving loan. The proceeds from these advances were used to refinance our prior bank credit facility, to pay costs related to entering into the new bank credit facility and fund certain operating costs.

Line of Credit. We have a $25.0 million revolving loan agreement with Bank of America, or the line of credit. Each advance accrues interest on the basis of a one-month Eurodollar rate, plus the Applicable Margin determined on the basis of our Leverage Ratio, as each term is defined in the line of credit. Borrowings under the line of credit are uncollateralized obligations. The line of credit matures on March 31, 2008 and subjects us to certain covenants, including a covenant to maintain at least $25.0 million available for borrowing under the new bank credit facility. As of September 30, 2007, we had $16.6 million in loans outstanding under the line of credit, which were based on a one-month Eurodollar rate of 5.14% plus an Applicable Margin of 0.90%. As of September 30, 2007 we were in compliance with all covenant requirements in the line of credit and had $8.4 million available for borrowing under the line of credit.

Letters of Credit. As of September 30, 2007, we maintained four uncollateralized letters of credit to satisfy potential workers’ compensation liabilities, overdue pari-mutuel wagering tax liabilities of the Pocono Downs entities that may arise, overdue amounts for purses due to horsemen at Pocono Downs that may arise and potential contractor and subcontractor liabilities relating to the Project Horizon expansion at Mohegan Sun. The letters of credit expire(d) on August 31, 2008, January 25, 2008, November 17, 2007 and September 5, 2008, respectively, subject to renewals. As of September 30, 2007, no amounts were drawn on the letters of credit.

Salishan Credit Facility. In October 2006, Salishan-Mohegan entered into a $25.0 million revolving loan agreement with Bank of America, or the Salishan Credit Facility, which matures on September 30, 2009. The revolving loan has no mandatory amortization provisions and is payable in full at maturity. At the option of Salishan-Mohegan, each advance of loan proceeds accrues interest on the basis of a base rate or on the basis of a one-month, two-month, three-month or six-month Eurodollar rate, plus a spread of 1.25% for base rate loans and 2.25% for Eurodollar loans. The base rate is the higher of Bank of America’s announced prime rate or the federal funds rate plus 0.50%. The Salishan Credit Facility is collateralized by a lien on substantially all of the existing and future assets of Salishan-Mohegan. The obligations of Salishan-Mohegan under the Salishan Credit Facility are also guaranteed by the Mohegan Tribe. The Salishan Credit Facility subjects Salishan-Mohegan to a number of restrictive covenants, including financial and non-financial covenants customarily found in loan agreements for similar transactions.

Immediately following the execution of the loan agreement, $10.0 million in loan proceeds were used by Salishan-Mohegan to provide a partial repayment of its outstanding loan balance with Mohegan Ventures-NW. Another $2.6 million in loan proceeds were used to pay off a mortgage payable. As of September 30, 2007, Salishan-Mohegan had $7.7 million of available borrowings under the Salishan Credit Facility. As of September 30, 2007, Salishan-Mohegan had $17.3 million in Eurodollar rate loans and no base rate loans outstanding. The Eurodollar rate loans outstanding at September 30, 2007 were comprised of: (1) a $15.5 million

 

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loan based on a one-month Eurodollar rate of 5.50% plus an Applicable Rate of 2.25% and (2) $1.8 million in loans based on a one-month Eurodollar rate of 5.80% plus an Applicable Rate of 2.25%. The Applicable Rate for commitment fees was 0.50% as of September 30, 2007.

Capital Expenditures

Capital Expenditures Incurred

Capital expenditures totaled $162.2 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007, compared to $101.9 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006. These capital expenditures were comprised of the following:

 

   

Capital expenditures at Mohegan Sun totaled $103.7 million and $44.4 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively. For the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007, these expenditures included $34.0 million in maintenance capital expenditures, $46.5 million in costs related to the Project Horizon expansion and $23.2 million in property renovation expenditures at Mohegan Sun. For the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006, these expenditures were principally related to the purchase of new carpeting in the Casino of the Earth and Sky, customer relationship management software and related hardware, slot machine replacements, information systems enhancements and upgrades and for other general maintenance of the Mohegan Sun facility.

 

   

Capital expenditures at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs totaled $58.4 million and $44.4 million for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively. For the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007, these expenditures were comprised primarily of Pocono Downs construction expenditures of $56.4 million, including $638,000 in capitalized interest. For the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006, these expenditures were comprised primarily of construction costs for the renovation and expansion of the existing grandstand and infrastructure related improvements for the Phase I facility, including $1.2 million in capitalized interest.

 

   

Capital expenditures for the Corporate division were minimal for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007. Capital expenditures for the Corporate division were $13.1 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 which represents the purchase of land, excluding prior deposits, intended to be used as the site for a casino to be owned by the Cowlitz Tribe.

Expected Future Capital Expenditures

Capital expenditures for fiscal year 2008 at Mohegan Sun, exclusive of the Project Horizon expansion described above under “Overview-Mohegan Sun-Project Horizon,” are budgeted to be $62.3 million, which are expected to be comprised of the following:

 

   

Maintenance capital expenditures at Mohegan Sun are anticipated to be approximately $40.1 million for replacement and improvements of information technology equipment and systems and the addition of slot machines and data warehouse storage.

 

   

Property renovation expenditures are expected to be approximately $22.2 million including the replacement of obsolete coin redemption booths in the Casino of the Sky with slot machines, renovation of the Sky bar on the casino floor and preparation for the connection to the Casino of the Wind.

Total costs for the development of Project Horizon, inclusive of costs incurred to date for Sunrise Square and the Casino of the Wind, currently are estimated to be approximately $925.0 million. Remaining project costs are estimated to be incurred as follows: fiscal year 2008 $252.0 million, fiscal year 2009 $303.0 million, fiscal year 2010 $294.0 million and fiscal year 2011 $30.0 million, as discussed above under “Overview-Mohegan Sun-Project Horizon.”

 

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Capital expenditures for Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs are anticipated to be $178.0 million for the 2008 fiscal year, comprised primarily of $175.5 million in construction and furniture, fixtures, and equipment expenditures to complete Project Sunrise. We plan to spend $208.0 million in total on the development of Project Sunrise as discussed above under “Overview-Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs.”

Sources of Funding for Capital Expenditures

We will rely primarily on cash generated from operations to finance maintenance capital expenditures at Mohegan Sun and Pocono Downs. We plan to finance capital expenditures for Project Horizon at Mohegan Sun and for Project Sunrise at Pocono Downs through the new $1.0 billion revolving bank credit facility from a syndicate of financial institutions and commercial banks. The Authority has commenced discussions with its lenders regarding modifications to its bank credit facility to address the revisions to Project Horizon and the revised cost projection for Project Sunrise.

Interest Expense

For the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005, we incurred the following in interest expense, net of capitalized interest (in thousands):

 

     For the Fiscal Years Ended
September 30,
 
     2007     2006     2005  

Prior bank credit facility

   $ 2,755     $ 3,463     $ 7,337  

New bank credit facility

     2,799       —         —    

1999 8 1/8% senior notes

     —         284       1,219  

2005 6 1/8% senior notes

     15,313       15,355       9,826  

2001 8 3/8% senior subordinated notes

     1,369       1,369       1,431  

2002 8% senior subordinated notes

     20,000       20,000       20,000  

2003 6 3/8% senior subordinated notes

     21,038       21,038       20,979  

2004 7 1/8% senior subordinated notes

     16,031       15,987       16,031  

2005 6 7/8% senior subordinated notes

     10,313       10,341       6,617  

WNBA note

     301       336       271  

Line of credit

     641       515       504  

Salishan Credit Facility

     1,185       —         —    

Amortization of net deferred gain on settlement of derivative instruments

     456       444       711  

Amortization of debt issuance costs

     3,835       2,976       3,106  

Capitalized interest

     (1,673 )     (1,180 )     (21 )
                        

Total interest expense, net of capitalized interest

   $ 94,363     $ 90,928     $ 88,011  
                        

Sufficiency of Resources

We believe that existing cash balances, financing arrangements and operating cash flows will provide us with sufficient resources to meet our existing debt obligations, relinquishment payments, foreseeable capital expenditure requirements with respect to current operations and distributions to the Tribe for at least the next twelve months. Distributions to the Tribe are anticipated to total approximately $80.0 million for fiscal year 2008. Any future investments in Mohegan Sun related to Project Horizon and in Pocono Downs related to Project Sunrise are anticipated to be funded through the new bank credit facility, as discussed above under “Sources of Funding for Capital Expenditures.” As of September 30, 2007, we had $960.2 million available for borrowing under the new bank credit facility, without taking into account covenants under the line of credit. We have commenced discussions with our lenders regarding modifications to the new bank credit facility to address the revisions to Project Horizon and the revised cost projection for Project Sunrise.

 

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Contractual Obligations and Commitments

Our future payment obligations related to our debt and certain other material contractual obligations and the timing of those payments are set forth below.

 

          Payments due by period

Contractual Obligations

(in thousands)

  

Total

  

Less than 1

year (1)

  

1-3 years

  

3-5 years

  

More than

5 years

              

Long-term debt (2)

   $ 1,292,786    $ 17,591    $ 349,250    $ 300,345    $ 625,600

Interest payments on long-term debt (3)

     432,856      87,513      152,191      127,652      65,500

Construction obligations (4)

     95,568      95,568      —        —        —  

Procurement obligations (5)

     25,950      6,760      11,545      5,945      1,700
                                  

Total

   $ 1,847,160    $ 207,432    $ 512,986    $ 433,942    $ 692,800
                                  
(1) Amounts represent payment obligations from October 1, 2007 to September 30, 2008.
(2) Long-term debt includes maturities scheduled as of September 30, 2007 for our senior notes and senior subordinated notes, amounts required to be paid pursuant to the new bank credit facility, and our other debt agreements, including the Salishan Credit Facility, but excludes interest payments. Refer to Note 9 to our consolidated financial statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
(3) Includes interest payments expected to be paid on long-term debt as of September 30, 2007, pursuant to respective debt agreements. Refer to Note 9 to our consolidated financial statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
(4) Construction obligations represent expenditures we must pay in connection with Project Horizon, Project Sunrise and other capital projects.
(5) Procurement obligations represent agreements entered into with vendors for inventory and sundry items.

In addition to the contractual obligations described above, we have certain other contractual commitments as of September 30, 2007 that require payments during the periods described below. The calculation of the estimated payments in the table below are based, in large part, on projections of future revenues over an extended period of time, as well as other factors that are indicated more fully in the footnotes to the following table. Since there are estimates and judgments used with respect to calculating these liabilities, future events that affect such estimates and judgments may cause the actual payments to differ from the estimates set forth below. The amounts included in the table are estimates and, while some agreements are perpetual in term, for the purposes of calculating these amounts, we have assumed that the table contains information for only ten years.

 

     Payments due by period

Contractual Commitments

(in thousands)

  

Less than 1

year (1)

  

1-3 years

  

3-5 years

  

5-10 years

           

Minimum Slot Win Contributions (2)

   $ 226,648    $ 468,816    $ 550,472    $ 1,533,050

Relinquishment commitments (3)

     78,034      149,044      168,725      203,197

Priority distributions (4)

     17,488      36,686      39,091      109,311

Town of Montville commitment (5)

     500      1,000      1,000      2,500

Host municipalities’ local share assessment (6)

     10,000      20,000      20,000      50,000

Property tax litigation payments (7)

     1,556      3,926      4,646      8,066
                           

Total

   $ 334,226    $ 679,472    $ 783,934    $ 1,906,124
                           

(1) Amounts represent payment commitments from October 1, 2007 to September 30, 2008.
(2) Slot win contributions are a portion of the gross slot revenues that must be paid by us to the State of Connecticut pursuant to the Mohegan Compact. The slot win contribution is the lesser of (a) 30% of gross slot revenues, or (b) the greater of (i) 25% of gross slot revenues or (ii) $80.0 million.
(3) Relinquishment payments are made by us to TCA under a relinquishment agreement. Relinquishment payments are five percent of revenues, as defined in the relinquishment agreement. Refer to Note 14 to our consolidated financial statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

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(4) Priority distributions are monthly payments required to be made by us to the Tribe pursuant to the priority distribution agreement. Refer to Note 13 to our consolidated financial statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The payments are calculated based on net cash flows and are limited to a maximum amount of $14.0 million pursuant to the priority distribution agreement, as adjusted annually based on the Consumer Price Index, or CPI. For the purposes of calculating these amounts, we have assumed that we will pay the maximum amount in each of the years covered by the table, as adjusted by an annual CPI adjustment of 3.23%.
(5) We have an agreement with the Town of Montville to pay the town an annual payment of $500,000 to minimize the impact on the town resulting from the decreased tax revenues on reservation land held in trust.
(6) Pursuant to the Race Horse Development and Gaming Act of 2004, Downs Racing, L.P. must pay, on an annual basis, to the PGCB amounts necessary to ensure the hosting municipalities of Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs will receive an annual minimum of $10.0 million from the local share assessment included in the daily slot machine tax assessment payments to the PGCB. Refer to Note 13 to our consolidated financial statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
(7) Pursuant to the Pennsylvania Property Tax Litigation settlement, Downs Racing, L.P. will continue to make agreed upon annual payments with the Wilkes-Barre Area School District for each tax year through 2015. Refer to Note 13 to our consolidated financial statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

Management has identified the following critical accounting policies that affect our more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements. The preparation of our consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. On an on-going basis, management evaluates those estimates, including those related to asset impairment, relinquishment liability, accruals for unredeemed Player’s Club points, self-insurance, revenue recognition, allowance for doubtful accounts, contingencies and litigation. These estimates are based on the information that is currently available to us and on various other assumptions that management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results could vary from those estimates.

We believe that the following critical accounting policies affect significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements:

Revenue Recognition

We recognize gaming revenues as gaming wins less gaming losses. Revenues from food and beverage, hotel, retail, entertainment and other services are recognized at the time the service is performed. Minimum rental revenues are recognized on a straight-line basis over the terms of the related leases. Percentage rents are recognized in the period in which the tenants exceed their respective percentage rent thresholds.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

We maintain an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of our patrons to make required payments, which results in bad debt expense. Management determines the adequacy of this allowance by continually evaluating individual patron receivables, considering the patron’s financial condition, credit history and current economic conditions. If the financial condition of patrons were to deteriorate, resulting in an impairment of their ability to make payments, additional allowances may be required.

We also maintain allowances for doubtful accounts for reimbursable costs and expenses incurred by Salishan-Mohegan and WTG for the development of casinos in Clark County, Washington and Kenosha, Wisconsin, respectively, to be owned by the Cowlitz Tribe and Menominee Tribe, respectively. Due to the

 

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inherent uncertainty in the development of these casino projects, the reserve for these receivables is based on our estimate of the probability that the receivables will be collected. Future complications in the receipt of financing, the relevant land being taken into trust or other matters affecting the development of the casinos could affect the collectibility of the receivables.

Unredeemed Player’s Club Points

We maintain an accrual for unredeemed Player’s Club points, as more fully described above under “Explanation of Key Financial Statement Captions—Promotional Allowances.” The accrual is based on the estimated cost of the points expected to be redeemed as of the respective balance sheet date. Management determines the adequacy of this accrual by periodically evaluating the historical redemption experience and projected trends related to this accrual.

Self-insurance Accruals

We are self-insured up to certain limits for costs associated with workers’ compensation and employee medical coverage. Insurance claims and reserves include accruals of estimated settlements for known claims, as well as accruals of estimates of incurred but not reported claims. In estimating these costs, we consider historical loss experience and make judgments about the expected levels of costs per claim. We also use information provided by independent consultants to assist in the determination of estimated accruals. These claims are accounted for based on estimates of the undiscounted claims, including those claims incurred but not reported. We believe the use of these estimates to account for these liabilities provides a consistent and effective way to measure these accruals; however, changes in health care costs, accident frequency and severity and other factors can materially affect the estimate for these liabilities. We continually monitor the potential changes in future estimates, evaluate insurance accruals and make adjustments when necessary.

Relinquishment Liability

In accordance with SFAS 5, we have recorded a relinquishment liability of the estimated present value of our obligations under the relinquishment agreement. We reassess the relinquishment liability (i) annually in conjunction with our budgeting process or (ii) when necessary to account for material increases or decreases in projected revenues over the relinquishment period. If the reassessment causes an overall increase to the projected revenues over the relinquishment period, the relinquishment liability will be increased by five percent of such increase in revenues, discounted at our risk-free rate of investment (an incremental layer). If the reassessment causes an overall decrease to the projected revenues over the relinquishment period, the relinquishment liability will be decreased by five percent of such decrease in revenues, discounted based upon a weighted-average discount rate (a decremental layer). The weighted-average discount rate is defined as the average discount rate used to discount all the previous incremental layers weighted by the amount of each such incremental layer. Further, we record a quarterly accretion to the relinquishment liability to reflect the impact of the time value of money. Since there is a high level of estimates and judgments used with respect to calculating this liability, future events that affect such estimates and judgments may cause the actual liability to differ significantly from the estimate.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation is provided over the estimated useful lives of the assets (other than land) using the straight-line basis. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of the lease term or the estimated useful lives of the improvements. Useful life estimates of asset categories are as follows:

 

Buildings and land improvements

  40 years

Furniture and equipment

  3-7 years

 

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The costs of significant improvements are capitalized. Costs of normal repairs and maintenance are charged to expense as incurred. Gains or losses on disposition of property and equipment are included in the determination of net income.

In accordance with SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets,” the carrying value of our assets is reviewed when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. If it is determined that an impairment loss has occurred based on current and future levels of income and expected future cash flows as well as other factors, then an impairment loss is recognized in the consolidated statement of income.

Goodwill

In accordance with SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” the goodwill associated with the acquisition of the Pocono Downs entities is not subject to amortization but is tested at least annually for impairment by comparing the fair value of the recorded assets to their carrying amount. If the carrying amount of the goodwill exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss will be recognized immediately.

Intangible Assets

Our trademark for Mohegan Sun is no longer subject to amortization as it has been deemed to have an indefinite useful life. The trademark is evaluated periodically for impairment by applying a fair-value based test and, if impairment occurs, the amount of impaired trademark will be written off immediately. The intangible assets associated with the acquisitions of the Pocono Downs entities, the WNBA franchise, the Menominee Project development rights and the assets of Pautipaug Country Club Inc. are also assessed periodically for impairment pursuant to appropriate accounting standards.

Litigation

We are subject to various claims and legal actions in the ordinary course of business. Some of these matters relate to personal injuries to customers and damage to customers’ personal assets. Management estimates guest claims expense and accrues for such liabilities based upon historical experience in other current liabilities in our accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

As the successor owner of Downs Racing, we were involved in a dispute with the Wilkes-Barre Area School District, which had filed an appeal in November 2001 against Downs Racing’s predecessor company, Pocono Downs, Inc., and the Luzerne County Board of Assessment Appeals relating to certain property tax assessments. The school district challenged the certified assessment for the tax year 2002, and sought an increase to the assessed value of that property for 2002 and subsequent tax years, including additional assessments for tax year 2007. A final settlement of the dispute was reached in June 2007 between the various parties in the litigation and the settlement was subsequently approved by the Luzerne County Court. Based on the settlement, our liability for this litigation covering tax periods through June 30, 2007 was approximately $3.5 million, which is recorded in our income from operations for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007. We will continue to make agreed upon payments with the Wilkes-Barre Area School District for each tax year through 2015. The total amount of these payments is $18.2 million.

Impact of Inflation

Absent changes in competitive and economic conditions or in specific prices affecting the hospitality and gaming industry, we do not expect that inflation will have a significant impact on our operations. Changes in specific prices, such as fuel and transportation prices, relative to the general rate of inflation may have a material adverse effect on the hospitality and gaming industry in general.

 

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New Accounting Pronouncements

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“FAS 157”). FAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. This standard does not require any new fair value measurements. FAS 157 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, and interim periods within those fiscal years. However, the FASB did provide a one year deferral for the implementation of FAS 157 for other nonfinancial assets and liabilities. We do not believe the adoption of this standard will have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In September 2006, the Securities and Exchange Commission issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 108 (“SAB 108”), which provides guidance on the consideration of the effects of prior year financial statement misstatements in quantifying current year financial statement misstatements for the purpose of a materiality assessment. SAB 108 is effective for annual financial statements issued for fiscal years ending after November 15, 2006. We do not believe the application of this guidance will have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities” (“FAS 159”). FAS 159 provides entities with the option to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value that are not currently required to be measured at fair value, and also establishes presentation and disclosure requirements designed to facilitate comparisons between entities that choose different measurement attributes for similar types of assets and liabilities. This standard is intended to expand the use of fair value measurement, but does not require any new fair value measurements. FAS 159 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. We are currently evaluating the potential impact of this standard on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141(R), “Business Combinations” (“FAS 141(R)”) and SFAS No. 160, “Non-controlling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements” (“FAS 160”). FAS 141(R) requires the acquiring entity in a business combination to record all assets acquired and liabilities assumed at their respective acquisition-date fair values and changes other practices under FAS 141. FAS 141(R) also requires additional disclosure of information surrounding a business combination, such that users of the entity’s financial statements can fully understand the nature and financial impact of the business combination. FAS 160 requires entities to report non-controlling (minority) interests in subsidiaries as equity in the consolidated financial statements. We are required to adopt FAS 141(R) and FAS 160 simultaneously in our fiscal year beginning October 1, 2009. The provisions of FAS 141(R) will only impact us if we are party to a business combination after the pronouncement has been adopted. We are currently evaluating the effects, if any, that FAS 160 may have on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

Market risk is the risk of loss arising from adverse changes in market rates and prices, such as interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and commodity prices. Our primary exposure to market risk is interest rate risk associated with our new bank credit facility in which interest will accrue on the basis of a base rate formula or a Eurodollar-based formula, plus Applicable Rates, as defined in the new bank credit facility. As of September 30, 2007, we had $33.0 million drawn on the new bank credit facility. See “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—External Sources of Liquidity” for further information relating to the terms and conditions of the new bank credit facility.

We attempt to manage our interest rate risk through a controlled mix of our long-term fixed rate borrowings and variable rate borrowings in accordance with established policies and procedures. We do not hold or issue financial instruments for speculative or trading purposes.

 

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The following table provides information as of September 30, 2007 about our current financial instruments (debt obligations) that are sensitive to changes in interest rates. The table presents principal payments and related weighted-average interest rates by expected maturity dates. Weighted-average variable rates are based on implied forward rates in respective yield curves, which should not be considered to be precise indicators of actual future interest rates. Fair values for variable-rate debt instruments are considered to approximate their carrying amounts and fair values for fixed-rate debt instruments, which are publicly traded, are based on quoted market prices as of September 30, 2007.

 

    Expected Maturity Date            
    2008     2009     2010     2011     2012     Thereafter     Total     Fair Value
Liabilities                

Long-Term Debt (including current portion):

               

Fixed Rate

  $ —       $ 330,000     $ —       $ 16,345     $ 250,000     $ 625,000     $ 1,221,345     $ 1,208,891

Average interest rate

    —         6.4 %     —         8.4 %     8.0 %     6.7 %     6.9 %  

Variable Rate

  $ 17,591     $ 18,250     $ 1,000     $ 1,000     $ 33,000     $ 600     $ 71,441     $ 71,441

Average interest rate

    6.1 %     6.6 %     5.8 %     6.1 %     5.8 %     —         6.0 %  

Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

Our consolidated financial statements and notes thereto, referred to in Item 15(A)(1) of this Form 10-K, are filed as part of this report and appear in this Form 10-K beginning on page F-1.

Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

None.

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed with, or furnished to the SEC, pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act, 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 our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure based on the definition of “disclosure controls and procedures” in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Exchange Act.

As of September 30, 2007, we carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of disclosure controls and procedures. Based on the foregoing evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

There was no change in our internal control over financial reporting during our fourth fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Item 9B. Other Information

None.

 

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PART III

Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

We are governed by a nine-member Management Board, whose members also comprise the Mohegan Tribal Council (the governing body of the Tribe). Any change in the composition of the Mohegan Tribal Council results in a corresponding change in our Management Board. The members and their terms are as follows: Bruce S. Bozsum, Marilynn R. Malerba, William Quidgeon, Jr., Ralph James Gessner, Jr. and Mark W. Hamilton are each serving four-year terms expiring in October 2009, while Allison D. Johnson, Mark F. Brown, Cheryl A. Todd and Thayne D. Hutchins, Jr. are each serving four-year terms expiring in October 2011. Upon expiration of their respective terms, the eligible voters of the Tribe may reelect current Tribal Council members who choose to run for reelection or elect new Tribal Council members. See “Part I. Item 1. Business—Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut” and “Part I. Item 1. Business—Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority.”

Management Board and Executive Officers

The following table provides information with respect to (i) the members of the Management Board and (ii) each of the executive officers of Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, Mohegan Sun and the Pocono Downs entities.

 

Name

   Age   

Position

Bruce S. Bozsum

   47    Chairman and Member, Management Board

Marilynn R. Malerba

   54    Vice Chairwoman and Member, Management Board

Allison D. Johnson

   37    Recording Secretary and Member, Management Board (1)

Ralph James Gessner, Jr.

   38    Corresponding Secretary and Member, Management Board (1)

William Quidgeon, Jr.

   45    Treasurer and Member, Management Board (1)

Mark F. Brown

   50    Member, Management Board (1)

Mark W. Hamilton

   54    Member, Management Board (1)

Cheryl A. Todd.

   47    Member, Management Board

Thayne D. Hutchins, Jr.

   36    Member, Management Board

Mitchell Grossinger Etess

   49    Chief Executive Officer, Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority

Jeffrey E. Hartmann

   45    Chief Operating Officer, Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority

Leo M. Chupaska

   59    Chief Financial Officer, Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority

Robert J. Soper

   35    President and Chief Executive Officer of the Pocono Downs entities

(1) Designates a member of the Audit Committee.

Bruce S. Bozsum—Mr. Bozsum was first seated on the Tribal Council and the Management Board effective October 4, 2004. He was re-elected in October 2005, at which time he was elected Chairman of the Management Board. Mr. Bozsum previously served as the Manager of Cultural and Community Programs for the Tribe from 2000 to 2004, and was responsible for educational outreach programs, the annual Wigwam Festival and Cultural Week. Previously, he worked as a Floor Supervisor for the Tribe’s High Stakes Bingo operation.

Marilynn R. Malerba—Ms. Malerba was first seated on the Tribal Council and the Management Board and was elected Vice-Chairwoman of the Management Board in October 2005. Ms. Malerba served as the Director and later Executive Director of the Tribe’s Health and Human Services Department from 1997 until 2005.

 

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Ms. Malerba was responsible for the development of the programs that directly benefit the Tribe’s membership. Prior to her employment with the Tribe, Ms. Malerba held director and manager positions with Lawrence & Memorial Hospital in New London, Connecticut, and currently serves on its Board of Directors.

Allison D. Johnson—Ms. Johnson was seated on the Tribal Council and the Management Board in October 2005. Ms. Johnson served as a Human Resources Manager and Human Resource Generalist for the Tribal government from June 2003 to October 2005. Ms. Johnson worked in the Human Resource department at Mohegan Sun from 2000 to 2003, serving as Benefits Manager prior to her employment with the Tribe. Ms. Johnson has held management positions in commercial leasing and retail sales and support. Ms. Johnson served as an Alternate Commissioner for the Tribal Employment Rights Commission. She is a graduate of San Diego Miramar College in California with a degree in liberal arts.

Ralph James Gessner, Jr.—Mr. Gessner brings nine years of casino experience to his first term on the Management Board. Prior to being seated on the Tribal Council and the Management Board in October 2005, Mr. Gessner served as Executive Host at Mohegan Sun beginning in 1997, was promoted to Manager and then Director of Executive Hosts and finally to Vice President of Casino Marketing. Prior to his work at Mohegan Sun, Mr. Gessner worked as a marketing associate for a food service company after graduating from the University of Southwestern Louisiana with a bachelor’s degree in hotel and restaurant management.

William Quidgeon, Jr.—Mr. Quidgeon was first seated on the Tribal Council and the Management Board in October 2005, after serving in several capacities for the Tribal government and the Mohegan Sun. Mr. Quidgeon served as Senior Project Manager for the Mohegan Tribal Development Department from 1999 to 2005 where he was responsible for renovations and construction within the casino and Tribal government. Prior to his work for the Tribe, Mr. Quidgeon worked as Facilities Manager at Mohegan Sun. He also served as Board Chairman of Mohegan Information Technology Group, a limited liability company majority-owned by the Tribe.

Mark F. Brown—Mr. Brown has been a member of the Tribal Council and the Management Board since October 1995. He served as Chairman of the Management Board and the Tribal Council from October 2000 until October 2005. Mr. Brown worked with the Tribe’s historian during the period in which the Tribe was working to obtain federal recognition and also served on the Tribal Constitutional Review Board from 1993 to 1995. Mr. Brown served as a law enforcement officer for over twelve years. Prior to his work in law enforcement, Mr. Brown was involved in retail sales and management.

Mark W. Hamilton—Mr. Hamilton served as Mohegan Sun’s General Counsel/Vice President for nine years prior to being seated on the Tribal Council and the Management Board in October 2005. As General Counsel, he was responsible for reviewing and approving contractual agreements, establishing guidelines and procedures for legal issues related to operations, patrons, vendors and regulating agencies, overseeing the legal staff and budget preparation. Prior to his employment with Mohegan Sun, Mr. Hamilton worked as an attorney in a private practice.

Cheryl A. Todd—Ms. Todd was first seated on the Tribal Council and the Management Board in March 2007, after serving as Executive Assistant to the Chairman of the Management Board for 11 years. Her position enabled her to participate in the daily operations of the Tribe, interacting with every department within the government and Mohegan Sun; federal, state and local government representatives; officials from other Indian Nations; and corporate and financial executives. In addition to her work experience with the Tribe, Ms. Todd also served on the Mohegan Strategic Planning Committee and the Mohegan Election Committee. Prior to her employment with the Tribe, Ms. Todd held multiple positions at the Naval Submarine Base in Groton, Connecticut.

Thayne D. Hutchins, Jr.—Mr. Hutchins was first seated on the Tribal Council and the Management Board in October 2007, after serving as a staff accountant in the finance department of the Tribe for six years. His position enabled him to employ his business skills in a variety of responsibilities, including the analysis and monitoring of the Tribe’s wide-ranging financial concerns. Mr. Hutchins graduated Magna Cum Laude from Eastern Connecticut State University holding a B.A. in Economics with a concentration in accounting.

 

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Mitchell Grossinger Etess—Mr. Etess assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer of the Authority in May 2006, while continuing in his current role as President and Chief Executive Officer of Mohegan Sun. Mr. Etess has served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Mohegan Sun since August 2004. Prior to that, Mr. Etess served as Executive Vice President of Marketing of the Authority. Mr. Etess served as the Authority’s Executive Vice President of Marketing from October 1999 to August 2004 and served as its Senior Vice President of Marketing from November 1995 to October 1999. Prior to his employment with Mohegan Sun, Mr. Etess was Vice President of Marketing at Players Island and, from 1989 to 1994, was Senior Vice President of Marketing and Hotel Operations at Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino. Prior thereto, Mr. Etess held various management positions in the hospitality and advertising industries.

Jeffrey E. Hartmann—Mr. Hartmann assumed the role of Chief Operating Officer of the Authority in May 2006, while continuing in his current role as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Mohegan Sun. Mr. Hartmann has served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Mohegan Sun since August 2004. Prior to that, Mr. Hartmann served as Executive Vice President, Finance and the Chief Financial Officer of the Authority. Mr. Hartmann has 15 years of experience in the casino and hotel industry. Mr. Hartmann served as the Authority’s Executive Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer from October 1999 through August 2004 and served as its Senior Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer from December 1996 to October 1999. Prior to joining the Authority, Mr. Hartmann worked for Foxwoods from August 1991 to December 1996, including as Vice President of Finance for Foxwoods Management Company. Mr. Hartmann was employed by Coopers & Lybrand, LLP, an independent public accounting firm, as an Audit Manager from 1984 to 1991. Mr. Hartmann is a certified public accountant.

Leo M. Chupaska—Mr. Chupaska was named Chief Financial Officer of the Authority in August 2004. Mr. Chupaska also served as Chief Financial Officer of Mohegan Sun from May 2006 to June 2007. Prior to his position at the Authority, Mr. Chupaska served as Chief Financial Officer of the Tribe from September 1996 through August 2004, and was a member of the Financial Advisory Committee of the Authority’s Audit Committee. Prior to joining the Tribe, Mr. Chupaska served as Director of Financial Services for Lawrence & Memorial Hospital in New London, Connecticut. Mr. Chupaska is a certified public accountant.

Robert J. Soper—Mr. Soper has served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Pocono Downs entities since January 2005. Prior to assuming this position, Mr. Soper served as Senior Vice President of Administration at Mohegan Sun from 2001 to 2005 and Senior Attorney for the Tribe from 1997 to 2001.

Audit Committee

We have a separately-designated standing Audit Committee established in accordance with applicable provisions of the Exchange Act. The Audit Committee is comprised of members from the Management Board. All members of our Audit Committee are able to read and understand fundamental financial statements, including a balance sheet, income statement and cash flow statement. The Management Board has determined that none of its members, and accordingly no member of the Audit Committee, is a financial expert, meaning that no person has past employment experience in finance or accounting, requisite professional certification in accounting or any other comparable experience or background, which results in the individual’s financial sophistication, including being or having been a chief executive officer, chief financial officer or other senior officer with financial oversight responsibilities. However, the Audit Committee is advised on financial matters through a Financial Advisory Committee, comprised of one or more financial experts independent from the Authority.

Code of Ethics

We have adopted a code of ethics that applies to all of our executive officers, including our principal executive officer and principal financial and accounting officer. Our code of ethics is available on our website at www.mtga.com under “Corporate Governance.”

 

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If we make any substantive amendments to the code of ethics or grant any waiver, including any implicit waiver, from a provision of the code of ethics to our principal executive or principal financial and accounting officer, we will disclose the nature of such amendment or waiver on our website and in a report on Form 8-K.

Item 11. Executive Compensation

Compensation Discussion and Analysis

Executive Compensation Objectives

The Authority operates in an extremely competitive environment, and believes that its current and future success is closely correlated with the retention of highly talented employees and a strong management team. Accordingly, the Authority’s executive compensation program is intended to meet three principal objectives: (1) attract, reward and retain senior management employees; (2) motivate these individuals to achieve short-term and long-term corporate goals that enhance the value of the Mohegan Sun brand; and (3) promote internal pay equity and external competitiveness.

The Authority’s philosophy relating to executive compensation is to attract and retain highly qualified people by offering base salaries, cash-based incentive compensation opportunities and other employee benefits at levels that will enable the Authority to offer its executives total compensation opportunities in line with those offered to executives of its peer gaming and hospitality companies. The Authority faces special challenges in designing executive compensation programs because, as an instrumentality of the Tribe, it cannot offer equity-based compensation to its executives, unlike many of its industry peers. As a result, the Authority strives to design cash-based compensation programs that will reward its executives with externally competitive compensation while providing proper incentives to management to achieve its financial and operational objectives at the business unit and company-wide level. Finally, the Authority strives to ensure that its compensation program is straightforward, transparent and understandable.

Role of the Compensation Committee and Senior Management

The Management Board, made up of the nine members of the Mohegan Tribal Council, serves as the Compensation Committee of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority and has final authority over the design, negotiation and implementation of all executive compensation programs. As more fully described below, Mr. Etess, along with the Senior VP/Administration and VP/Human Resources of Mohegan Sun, have taken the leading roles in program design. In addition, acting within the boundaries of the annual budget approved by the Management Board, Mr. Etess sets the salaries of, and exercises, discretion subject to Management Board approval, with respect to bonus and non-equity incentive compensation paid to, our executive officers.

Elements of Compensation

Historically, the compensation program offered by the Authority to its named executive officers, or NEOs, consisted of annual compensation, in the form of base salary and employee benefits/perquisites, and incentive compensation, in the form of annual cash bonus opportunity. We also offer our executive officers the opportunity to defer all or a portion of their cash compensation under a deferred compensation plan sponsored by the Mohegan Tribe, and also permit them to participate in retirement and 401(k) plans also sponsored by the Tribe.

During fiscal year 2006, a thorough review of the Authority’s executive compensation program was undertaken with the assistance of Mercer Human Resources Consulting, a nationally recognized compensation consulting firm. Based on the Mercer study, Mr. Etess, along with the Senior VP/Administration and VP/Human Resources of Mohegan Sun, designed a new cash-based annual incentive compensation program, titled the Mohegan Sun Executive Compensation Performance Reward Program, or PRP. Additional information about the PRP, and each other element of compensation offered to our NEOs in 2007, is set forth below.

 

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Annual Compensation

Annual compensation consists of base salaries and employee benefits. These elements are intended to provide some degree of compensation certainty to the named executive officers by providing compensation that, unlike incentive compensation, is not at-risk based upon our performance.

Base Salaries

We believe that a competitive base salary is an important component of compensation as it provides a degree of financial stability for our executives, a critical factor in recruiting and retaining our executives. Base salary also is designed to recognize the scope of responsibilities placed on each executive officer and reward each executive for his unique leadership skills, management experience and contributions to the organization.

In making base salary determination levels, we take into consideration economic and industry conditions and company performance. We do not assign relative weights to company and individual performance, but instead make a subjective determination after considering such measures collectively. Base salaries also are evaluated relative to other components of our compensation program to ensure the executives’ total compensation and mix of components is consistent with our overall compensation objectives and philosophies.

With these factors in mind, during 2006, we entered into employment agreements that, among other things, established minimum base salary levels for Messrs. Etess, Hartmann, Chupaska and Patrone. These base salaries were the result of negotiations with each executive and reflected our need to compete for management talent in a competitive environment. Our fifth NEO, Mr. Soper, received a substantial raise established in negotiations with our then-CEO in 2005 in connection with Mr. Soper’s assumption of his duties at Pocono Downs; the Management Board and Mr. Soper are in the process of finalizing the terms of a new employment agreement that is expected to include a minimum base salary provision. The agreements with our top three executives, Messrs. Etess, Hartmann and Chupaska, provide for annual increases, effective on January 1 of each year, of not less than 5% of the executive’s prior base salary.

Employee Benefits

The NEOs receive certain employee benefits. For fiscal 2007, these benefits included health insurance, dental and vision coverage, prescription drug plans, flexible spending accounts, long-term disability and the opportunity to participate in the Tribe’s deferred compensation, retirement and 401(k) plans. In addition, we offer our NEOs perquisites that consist of our payment of premiums on life insurance policies for which the NEO is the owner, employer contributions and our other contributions on the NEO’s behalf to the Tribe’s retirement and 401(k) plan, our payment of premiums for supplemental long-term disability policies and complementary tickets to events and performances held at Mohegan Sun Arena as selected by each NEO.

Incentive Compensation

In fiscal 2007, the Authority offered its NEOs the opportunity to earn incentive compensation in the form of cash bonuses and, except for Mr. Soper, payouts under the PRP, as described below. The bonus awarded to Mr. Soper for fiscal 2007 was determined by Mr. Etess based on his assessment of the role played by Mr. Soper in the financial performance of Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs, described in greater detail under Item 7 of this Form 10-K, and approved by the Management Board.

Mohegan Sun Executive Compensation Performance Reward Program

Background. Mercer conducted a market pricing assessment of the relative competitiveness of the total cash compensation paid by the Authority to its NEOs, other than Mr. Soper, and 25 other senior executives. For the NEOs other than Mr. Soper, Mercer compared the compensation of these executives to that paid to executives in similar positions in publicly traded companies with similar annual revenues as well as companies in the leisure, hospitality and gaming industries.

 

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The data reviewed by Mercer included base salary compensation, cash bonuses and the present value associated with long-term incentive compensation, such as stock options and shares of restricted stock, paid by the comparator companies. The market data showed that the base salary paid by the Authority to Messrs. Etess, Hartmann and Chupaska exceeded the 75th percentile of the salaries paid by their comparator companies, and the base salary paid to Mr. Patrone exceeded the 50th percentile. Total cash compensation paid by the Authority, in the form of base salary plus annual cash bonus amounts, to these officers was at or above the 50th percentile, in the case of Messrs. Etess and Patrone, and above the 75th percentile, in the case of Messrs. Hartmann and Chupaska. On the other hand, due to the Authority’s inability to offer equity-based compensation, the total direct compensation for all four of the measured NEOs was substantially behind market, lagging behind the 25th percentile in the case of Messrs. Etess and Patrone, and behind the 50th percentile, in the case of Messrs. Hartmann and Chupaska. These findings were replicated at all positions that were measured by Mercer. Accordingly, the Mercer study concluded that the absence of any long-term compensation opportunities negatively affected the level of competitiveness of the total direct compensation afforded to the Authority’s senior management team measured by the Mercer study.

To attempt to bridge the gap in total direct compensation identified by the Mercer study, a new cash-based incentive compensation program was developed and implemented for corporate officers of the MTGA, including four of our five NEOs, in the 2007 fiscal year. The PRP was not extended to executives serving at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs, so Mr. Soper did not participate in the PRP during 2007. The Authority is in the process of establishing the fiscal year 2008 performance targets for the PRP, and it is expected that this program will be extended to Mr. Soper and other senior executives at Pocono Downs at that time.

Overview of the PRP. The PRP was designed to focus participants toward the successful attainment of formal goals that are tied to the strategic vision and business missions of the Authority, as approved by the Management Board. The program highlights the following:

 

   

to properly align our executive compensation system with competitive markets;

 

   

to establish defined pay practices within the organization and facilitate internal pay equity comparisons and analysis; and

 

   

to move bonus compensation decisions toward an “at risk” model, where payout levels are determined by individual and company-wide performance as measured against pre-defined goals.

The Performance Reward Program established three levels of awards, two of which impact NEO compensation:

 

   

Chief Executive Level: Defined as those positions which oversee and are ultimately accountable for companywide performance, provide policy level direction across department and enterprise lines, direct the development of strategic business plans across all departmental lines and are charged with overall business strategy and tactical planning and delivery of operational results. Their actions or failure to act have the highest consequence of error on overall operations. Mr. Etess, Mr. Hartmann and Mr. Chupaska are the only executives whose awards are set at this level.

 

   

Senior Executive Level: Defined as those positions charged with delivering focused strategic business plans throughout their enterprise and the departments that they are charged to oversee. As a group they are charged with directing the development of strategic business plans to achieve the approved business strategies of MTGA and ultimately prompt the delivery of successful performance of all departments and enterprises. Their individual or collective actions or failure to act have the second highest consequence of error on overall operations. Mr. Patrone is the only NEO whose award is set at this level.

Both the Chief Executive Officer and Senior Executive levels were established with an “at risk” bonus amount of 60% of base salary so as to afford the executives at these levels total compensation potential at a

 

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level equal to 90% of the 50th percentile of total direct compensation paid by comparator companies to executives in similar positions, according to the Mercer market data.

The PRP is intended to compensate executives based on their performance over four primary measurement areas during each fiscal year. The measurement areas are derived from the guiding principles of the organization since Mohegan Sun’s establishment in 1996. The financial area, which for the 2007 fiscal year measured the Adjusted EBITDA of Mohegan Sun in relation to a target established prior to the beginning of the fiscal year as part of the Authority’s budgeting process, will account for 50% of the “at risk” pool. For this purpose, “Adjusted EBITDA” or earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization, pre-opening costs and expenses, reassessment and accretion of discount to the relinquishment liability to Trading Cove Associates pursuant to a relinquishment agreement, write-off of debt issuance costs, income (loss) from discontinued operations and other non-operating income and expense. Adjusted EBITDA is not a measure of performance calculated in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, or GAAP. The Authority historically has evaluated its operating performance with the non-GAAP measure, Adjusted EBITDA. Although EBITDA it is not a measure of performance calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principals, it is the most important metric we use in evaluating our financial performance.

Going forward, the actual targets used, and the extent of the “at risk” pool each of the areas comprises, will be determined following the annual strategic planning process in the discretion of Mr. Etess in conjunction with the Senior VP/Administration, Senior VP/Finance and CFO and VP/Human Resources of Mohegan Sun. This process is being devised for the PRP in the 2008 fiscal year.

Compensation Committee Report

The MTGA Management Board, made up of the nine member Mohegan Tribal Council, serves as the Compensation Committee of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority. The Management Board met with management to review and discuss the preceding Compensation Discussion and Analysis. Based on such review and discussion, the Management Board approved that this Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in the Authority’s Form 10-K for its 2007 fiscal year.

Management Board

Bruce S. Bozsum

Marilynn R. Malerba

Allison D. Johnson

Ralph James Gessner, Jr.

William Quidgeon, Jr.

Mark F. Brown

Mark W. Hamilton

Cheryl A. Todd

Thayne D. Hutchins, Jr.

 

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Summary Compensation Table

 

Name and Principal Position

  

Salary

($)

   Bonus
($)
  

Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation

($)

   All Other
Compensation
($)
   

Total

($)

Mitchell Grossinger Etess

   1,119,000    373,000    165,000    58,000 (1)   1,715,000

    Chief Executive Officer,

    Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority

             

Jeffrey E. Hartmann

   1,029,000    343,000    165,000    48,000 (2)   1,585,000

    Chief Operating Officer,

    Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority

             

Leo M. Chupaska

   613,000    204,000    86,000    30,000 (3)   933,000

    Chief Financial Officer,

    Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority

             

Anthony Patrone

   333,000    —      144,000    11,000 (4)   488,000

    Senior Vice President of Marketing, Mohegan Sun

             

Robert J. Soper

   347,000    —      161,000    7,000 (5)   515,000

    President and Chief Executive Officer, Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs

             

(1) Consists of: (a) $30,035 in premium payments on a life insurance policy for which Mr. Etess is the owner; (b) $13,780 in reimbursements for the payment of income taxes pertaining to certain life insurance benefits; (c) $6,890 in premium payments on a long-term disability policy; (d) $6,750 in employer 401(k) matching contributions; and (e) $624 in employer retirement contributions.
(2) Consists of: (a) $24,299 in premium payments on a life insurance policy for which Mr. Hartmann is the owner; (b) $11,178 in reimbursements for the payment of income taxes pertaining to certain life insurance benefits; (c) $6,750 in employer 401(k) matching contributions; (d) $5,352 in premium payments on a long-term disability policy; and (e) $624 in employer retirement contributions.
(3) Consists of: (a) $20,063 in premium payments on a long-term disability policy; (b) $2,086 in premium payments on a life insurance policy for which Mr. Chupaska is the owner; (c) $6,750 in employer 401(k) matching contributions; (d) $957 in reimbursements for the payment of income taxes pertaining to certain life insurance benefits; and (e) $624 in employer retirement contributions.
(4) Consists of: $8,861 in employer 401(k) matching contributions; (d) $1,823 in premium payments on a long-term disability policy; and (c) $624 in employer retirement contributions.
(5) Consist of: $6,750 in employer 401(k) matching contributions.

Grants of Plan-Based Awards

 

Name

  

Grant Date

  

Estimated Future Payouts
Under-Non Equity Plan
Awards (1)

Target ($)

     

Mitchell Grossinger Etess

   4/21/2007    299,000

Jeffrey E. Hartmann

   4/21/2007    275,000

Leo M. Chupaska

   4/21/2007    164,000

Anthony Patrone

   4/21/2007    198,000

Robert J. Soper

   —      —  

(1)

The amounts shown in the table above are attributable to the participation of the NEOs, other than Mr. Soper, in the PRP. Target level payouts assume the Authority had achieved 100% of each performance target for fiscal 2007. The target amounts for Messrs. Etess, Hartmann and Chupaska were reduced from 60% of base salary to 26.7% of base salary by virtue of contractual provisions entitling them to receive

 

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33.3% of base salary annually. See the “Narrative” disclosure below for a more thorough explanation of the 2007 PRP targets and payouts awarded to each NEO. “Threshold” and “Maximum” columns have not been presented in this table because Mr. Etess possesses discretion under the PRP to make awards even if none of the targets are achieved. Similarly, maximum level payouts cannot be determined. Under the PRP for fiscal 2007, in the event the Authority were to have exceeded its Adjusted EBITDA target, 20% of the dollar amount by which such target was exceeded would have been added to the overall pool established for the PRP, and each NEO would have been eligible to receive a portion of the added amount as determined by Mr. Etess in his discretion.

Narrative Disclosure to Summary Compensation Table and Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table

The employment agreements for each of Messrs. Etess, Hartmann and Chupaska provide that each of them will receive an annual bonus that is not to be less than 33.3% of the executive’s annual base salary. The amount of these guaranteed bonuses reduces amounts otherwise potentially payable to these executives under the PRP. As a result, even though the PRP generally would provide for these executives to be required to have “at risk” incentive compensation in the amount of 60% of base salary, the effective “at risk” amounts constituted 26.7% of base salary for each of them. For these three officers, these contractual bonus payments are reported in the “bonus” column of the Summary Compensation Table, whereas the amounts earned under the PRP are set forth under the “non-equity incentive compensation” column.

The following table shows the criteria and weightings set for the NEOs under the PRP for fiscal 2007:

 

Measurement Area

  

Why We Used This Area

  

2007 Goal(s)

   Percentage of
“At Risk” Pool

Bottom-line Financial Performance Perspective—Adjusted EBITDA

   Mohegan Sun’s Adjusted EBITDA is the single most important measure of our financial performance.    $391.3 million of Adjusted EBITDA, with no awards payable under this area if recorded Adjusted EBITDA did not meet or exceed 95% of this amount.    50

Customer Relations Perspective

   Our ability to deliver superior customer service and ensure future patronage directly affects results.    Maintain or exceed our historical trend of receiving greater than 40-45% “excellent” ratings for customer service in surveys returned to Sterling, a third party marketing firm, by former patrons of Mohegan Sun.    10

Internal Business Perspectives

   It required management to undertake organizational and operational development initiatives, with a focus on internal processes that relate directly to strategic business plans.   

1.      Completion of comprehensive FY2008 business plan for Mohegan Sun

   15
     

2.      Achieve a 50% reduction in internal audit repetitive findings

   10

Learning and Growth Perspective

   It encouraged management to enhance their leadership abilities and attain personal and career development goals through further executive education programs.   

1.      Completion of individually designed leadership programs

   10
     

2.      Attendance at leadership development programs selected by each executive

   5

 

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The actual payouts for the 2007 fiscal year, shown in the Summary Compensation Table, reflected that the Authority achieved approximately 95.3% of the Adjusted EBITDA target and that all other components measured by the PRP were fully satisfied by each participating executive officer. Mr. Etess, in conjunction with the Authority’s Senior VP/Administration and VP/Human Resources, reviewed these financial and other results and exercised his discretion to reduce the payouts under the PRP to approximately 65% of the initial targeted amounts, in the case of Messrs. Etess, Hartmann and Chupaska, and 70%, in the case of Mr. Patrone. The Management Board approved these payments.

Nonqualified Deferred Compensation

The Authority offers the NEOs the opportunity to participate in a deferred compensation plan, or DCP, sponsored by the Tribe. The DCP is a non-qualified plan that allows the Authority’s executives to defer all or a portion of their compensation. The Company does not make contributions on behalf of its executive officers to the DCP.

 

Name

   Executive
Contributions in
Last Fiscal Year
($)
   Registrant
Contributions in
Last Fiscal Year
($)
   Aggregate Earnings
in Last Fiscal Year
($)
   Aggregate
Withdrawals/
Distributions
($)
   Aggregate Balance at
Last Fiscal Year End
($)

Mitchell Grossinger Etess

   513,349    —      330,462    —      2,479,786

Jeffrey E. Hartmann

   670,353    —      589,115    —      3,573,478

Leo M. Chupaska

   65,154    —      166,679    —      1,621,744

Robert J. Soper

   1,608    —      4,341    —      35,646

Anthony Patrone

   —      —      —      —      —  

The named executive officers may elect to defer all or a portion of their compensation under the DCP. The amounts deferred by each named executive officer will be deemed invested in the fund or funds designated by such named executive officer from among a number of funds offered under the DCP. Officers may change their deemed investments from time to time. For fiscal 2007, the following twenty-three funds were available for investment under the DCP:

Fund Name

Merrill Lynch Institutional

Davis New York Venture Y

Oppenheimer Small & Mid Cap Value Y

American Funds – Growth Fund of America R5

Oakmark International I

Eaton Vance Dividend Builder A

Janus Advisor Forty A

PIMCO Total Return Instl

BlackRock Healthcare I

BlackRock Global Allocation I

Lazard Emerging Markets Open

BlackRock Eurofund I

Hotchkis & Wiley Large Cap Value I

Seligman Communications & Information I

DWS RREEF Real Estate Sec A

BlackRock S&P 500 Index I

Neuberger Berman Partners Trust

Franklin Small-Mid Cap Growth Advisor

John Hancock High Yield Bond A

Allianz OCC Renaissance Admin

 

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PIMCO Real Return Instl

Fidelity Advisor Small Cap A

MainStay Small Cap Opportunity I

In accordance with federal law, elections to defer compensation generally must be made prior to the year in which the services to which the compensation relates will be performed. Once made, an election to defer compensation to be earned in the upcoming year is irrevocable. At the time a deferral election is made, the NEO chooses the date on which payment of the amount of compensation for the upcoming year credited to the DCP is to commence, as well as whether to receive the payments either in a lump sum or in up to fifteen annual installments. NEOs may change the form and timing of payments elected with respect to particular deferrals, subject to compliance with the terms of the DCP then in effect, including any grandfathered terms resulting from changes in applicable U.S. federal income tax laws or regulations.

Potential Payments and Benefits upon Termination or Change in Control

The table below reflects potential payments to our named executive officers in the event of a termination of employment based on the terms of employment agreements in as described above. The amounts shown represent our reasonable estimates of the amounts which would be paid to the named executive officers upon their termination, assuming in each case that the termination occurred on September 30, 2007, the last business day of our last fiscal year. The actual amounts to be paid can only be determined at the time of the named executive officers’ separation from the Authority. Due to the sovereignty of the Authority, potential payments upon change in control is not included within the table below as it is not applicable.

 

   

Salary

($)

  Target Bonus
($)
  Continuation of
Medical Benefits
($)
  Penalty
Payment (2)
($)
  Relocation
Expenses
($)
  Total ($)

Mitchell Grossinger Etess

           

Termination without cause

  5,343,931   1,781,309   13,522   459,220   —     7,597,982

Termination due to medical disability (1)

  573,488   —     1,219,378   —     —     1,792,865

Jeffrey E. Hartmann

           

Termination without cause

  4,914,125   1,638,040   13,522   500,000   —     7,065,687

Termination due to medical disability (1)

  527,363   —     1,121,305   —     —     1,648,667
  —            

LeoM. Chupaska

           

Termination without cause

  796,900   265,633   9,416   —     —     1,071,949

Termination due to medical disability (1)

  314,163   —     241,369       555,532

Anthony Patrone

           

Termination without cause

  332,747   —     —     —     25,000   357,747

Robert J. Soper

           

Termination without cause

  330,000   —     —     —     25,000   355,000

(1) Pursuant to the agreement, for termination without cause, the continuation of medical benefits shall be provided by the Authority for a period of one year. For termination due to medical disability, pursuant to the agreement, the Authority is required to provide the Executive’s base compensation for a period of 180 days, thereafter if the Authority, at it’s option, ceases the agreement, shall pay 50% of the Executive’s Base salary for a period of two years commencing at the termination of the agreement.
(2) For termination without cause, pursuant to the agreement, and if the Executive agrees to the early withdraw of his deferred compensation balance, at which time the Authority shall pay the penalty for early withdrawal, including the necessary gross up for income taxes. The above payment is assuming the Executive withdraws his deferred compensation on or before December 31, 2007, in which case the Authority will pay the lesser of the actual penalty or $500,000.

 

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Messrs. Etess and Hartmann. Under our employment agreements with each of these executives, we may terminate the executive’s employment for “cause,” defined as (1) the executive’s violation of the non-competition, non-solicitation and non-disclosure covenants contained in the agreement, (2) the loss or suspension by the State of Connecticut of the executive’s license for Class III gaming for a period of thirty (30) consecutive days, (3) conviction of any crime committed by the executive involving fraud, theft or moral turpitude, or (4) an intentional material breach of the executive’s obligations under the agreement. In the event that we terminate either executive for cause, he is not entitled to any further compensation from and after the date of termination, except as described in the last sentence of this paragraph. In the event of termination other than for cause, the executive is entitled to receive a severance payment in the amount of his base annual salary plus an annual bonus equal to 33.3% of the base annual salary from the date of termination to the expiration date of this agreement in the same amount and at the same intervals as would have been paid had his employment continued. Should we terminate his employment other than for cause, the executive may withdraw his deferred compensation and in turn we have agreed, under certain circumstances outlined in the agreement, to pay the penalty for early withdrawal of the deferred compensation, in amounts not to exceed the maximum balances outlined in the agreement. Additionally in the event of termination other than for cause, we have agreed to pay the amount, if any, of income taxes payable by him in connection with any penalty payments made by the Authority in amounts not to exceed the maximum balances outlined in the agreement.

Mr. Chupaska. Under our employment agreement with Mr. Chupaska, we may terminate his employment for cause, as defined above. In the event that we terminate Mr. Chupaska for cause, he is not entitled to any further compensation from and after the date of termination. In the event of termination other than for cause, Mr. Chupaska is entitled to receive a severance payment in the amount of his base annual salary plus an annual bonus equal to 33.3% of the base annual salary from the date of termination to the expiration date of this agreement in the same amount and at the same intervals as would have been paid had his employment continued.

Mr. Patrone. Under our employment agreement with Mr. Patrone, we may terminate his employment for cause, which is defined in Mr. Patrone’s agreement as (1) conviction of a criminal offense, (2) violation of the Authority’s standards and policies for personal conduct, (3) breach by Mr. Patrone of the covenants contained in his agreement, including his covenant not to compete, (4) Mr. Patrone aiding, abetting or assisting any other person to breach a covenant not to compete, (5) suspension of Mr. Patrone’s gaming license, (6) Mr. Patrone’s engagement, directly or indirectly, in a conflict of interest, (7) failure by Mr. Patrone to perform his duties, or (8) other serious misconduct by Mr. Patrone. In the event that we terminate Mr. Patrone for cause he is not entitled to any further compensation from and after the date of termination. In the event of termination other than for cause, Mr. Patrone is entitled to receive a severance payment in the amount of one year of his base annual salary plus a lump sum of $25,000 for relocation expenses.

Mr. Soper. We are party to an employment agreement with Mr. Soper that contains provisions substantially identical to that of Mr. Patrone. The Authority and Mr. Soper are in the process of finalizing a new employment agreement reflecting his expanded duties and leadership role at Pocono Downs.

 

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Compensation of the Management Board

The following table provides compensation information for fiscal year 2007 for each member of our Management Board. For additional information about the compensation paid to Roland Harris, who served as a member of the Management Board from October 1, 2006 until resigning that position to accept a position as Senior Vice President of Project Management at the Authority, please see “Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation” below.

 

Name

   Fees Earned
($)
   All Other
Compensation (1)
($)
  

Total

($)

Bruce S. Bozsum*

   180,107    280    180,387

Marilynn R. Malerba*

   163,734    254    163,988

Allison D. Johnson*

   130,987    203    131,190

Ralph James Gessner, Jr.*

   130,987    203    131,190

William Quidgeon, Jr.*

   130,987    203    131,190

Roberta J. Harris-Payne (2)

   130,987    203    131,190

Mark F. Brown*

   177,176    509    177,685

Mark W. Hamilton*

   130,987    203    131,190

Cheryl A. Todd (3)*

   73,050    117    73,167

Thayne D. Hutchins, Jr. (4)*

   —      —      —  

Roland J. Harris (5)

   37,345    2,403    39,748

 * Represents current Management Board members.
(1) Represents payment of premiums on life insurance policies for which the member is the owner.
(2) Term expired effective October 1, 2007.
(3) Succeeded Mr. Harris effective March 5, 2007.
(4) Succeeded Mrs. Harris-Payne effective October 1, 2007.
(5) Resigned from his position on the Board effective March 5, 2007.

Members of the Management Board are paid annual salaries by the Tribe for their services as members of the Tribal Council. Because of the dual role played by these individuals in the governance of the Authority as well as the Tribe itself, under the terms of an arrangement established at the time Mohegan Sun opened, the Authority is allocated the responsibility to fund a portion of the compensation paid to them. For fiscal 2007, the Authority was allocated 60% of these payment obligations, based on consideration of the amount of time that the Tribal Council functions in its capacity as the Management Board as opposed to its capacity as the Tribal Council, including participation in weekly Board meetings (and related preparation), weekly breakfast meetings with the MTGA executive team, bi-weekly executive committee meetings and, since October 2006, bi-weekly meetings relating to Project Horizon. In addition, certain members of the Tribal Council participate at the monthly board meetings relating to our diversification efforts involving gaming opportunities being undertaken by the Menominee and Cowlitz Tribes, travel with MTGA management to look at new opportunities, including potential opportunities in New York and Kansas as described elsewhere in this Form 10-K, and make periodic trips to Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs. Because we believe that the 2008 activities of the Council will be consistent with their 2007 activities, we expect the Authority also will fund 60% of the compensation of these individuals for fiscal 2008.

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

As noted above, the entire Management Board serves as the compensation committee of the Authority. Effective March 5, 2007, Roland J. Harris resigned from his position in the Tribal Council, and therefore the Management Board, to accept a position as Senior Vice President of Project Management at the Authority. During the 2007 fiscal year, Mr. Harris was paid $306,286 in base salary and incentive compensation for his service as an officer of the Authority. Mr. Harris subsequently resigned from this position in December 2007.

Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

We have no outstanding equity securities.

 

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Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

Procedure For Review Of Related Party Transactions

Potential conflicts of interest, including related party transactions reportable under SEC rules, must be approved in advance. The Company has a code of ethics, located on our website at “www.mtga.com”, which applies to our Chief Executive Officer and President (principal executive officer), our Chief Financial Officer (principal financial and accounting officer) and all other executive officers of the Authority, whom we refer to as our “Principal Officers”, and specifically addresses conflicts of interest. Pursuant to the code ethics, directors and officers with an actual or potential conflict of interest must disclose such conflict to the Director of Regulation, his designee or to the Chairman of the Management Board. Consistent with Authority practice, only the Management Board may waive a provision of this code of ethics for our officers or directors.

The Management Board reviews all transactions between the Authority and any of our officers and directors. In addition, the Authority’s corporate governance practices include procedures for discussing and assessing relationships, including business, financial and family member, among the Authority and its officers and directors, to the extent that they may arise. The Board reviews any transaction with a director to determine, on a case-by-case basis, whether a conflict of interest exists. The Board ensures that all directors voting on such a matter have no interest in the matter and discusses the transaction with counsel as deemed necessary.

Transactions between the Tribe, the Authority and the Authority’s Subsidiaries

On August 4, 2006, we purchased a 5.0% membership interest in Salishan-Mohegan from Mohegan Ventures-NW and sold such 5.0% interest to the Tribe for approximately $351,000, reflecting the carrying value of such interest. On October 17, 2006, a 2.85% membership interest in Salishan-Mohegan was transferred from Salishan Company to the Tribe, in exchange for the Tribe’s guarantee of the Salishan Credit Facility. The amount of the membership interest transferred was approximately $197,000, reflecting the carrying value of the 2.85% interest. Subsequent to this transaction, Mohegan Ventures-NW holds a 49.15% membership interest, the Tribe holds a 7.85% membership interest and Salishan Company holds a 43.0% membership interest in Salishan-Mohegan. Mohegan Ventures-NW and the Tribe continue to each hold one of four seats on the Board of Managers of Salishan-Mohegan. Refer to “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation—Overview—Other Diversification Projects—Cowlitz Project” for a further description of this transaction and other transactions with Salishan-Mohegan.

Services Provided by the Tribe to the Authority

The Tribe provides governmental and certain administrative and miscellaneous services to us in conjunction with the operation of Mohegan Sun. During the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005, we incurred $21.8 million, $19.8 million and $17.9 million, respectively, of expenses for such services.

We purchase the majority of our utilities, including electricity, gas, water and waste water services, from an instrumentality of the Tribe, the Mohegan Tribal Utility Authority. During the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005, we incurred costs of $23.7 million, $19.7 million and $16.5 million, respectively, for such utilities.

The Tribe previously provided services through its Development Department for projects related to Mohegan Sun. The Development Department of the Tribe, including personnel assigned to the department, was transferred to us during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007. Prior to this transfer, we recorded $53,000, $2.8 million and $10.6 million of capital expenditures associated with the Tribe’s Development Department for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006, and 2005, respectively.

Leases by the Authority to the Tribe

We had a lease agreement with Little People, LLC (an entity owned by the Tribe), whereby Little People, LLC leased retail space located in the Shops at Mohegan Sun from us. In June 2006, the lease agreement was

 

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terminated, and we purchased the furniture and fixtures, inventory and various outstanding accounts receivable pertaining to these retail operations from Little People, LLC for approximately $687,000. This retail outlet is now owned and operated by the Authority.

Leases by the Tribe to the Authority

We lease the land on which Mohegan Sun is located from the Tribe pursuant to a long-term lease. We are required to pay to the Tribe a nominal annual rental fee under the lease. The lease has an initial term of 25 years and is renewable for an additional 25-year term upon expiration.

The Tribe, through one of its limited liability companies, has entered into various land lease agreements with us for access, parking and related purposes for Mohegan Sun. For each of the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005, we expensed $262,000 relating to these land lease agreements.

Distributions by the Authority to the Tribe

On August 1, 2001, we entered into an agreement with the Tribe, or the priority distribution agreement, which obligates us to make monthly payments to the Tribe to the extent of our net cash flow, as defined in the priority distribution agreement. The priority distribution agreement, which has a perpetual term, limits the maximum aggregate payments by us to the Tribe in each calendar year to $14.0 million, as adjusted annually in accordance with the formula specified in the priority distribution agreement to reflect the effects of inflation. However, payments pursuant to the priority distribution agreement do not reduce our obligations to make payments to reimburse the Tribe for governmental services provided by the Tribe or any payments under any other agreements with the Tribe. The monthly payments under the priority distribution agreement are limited obligations payable only to the extent of our net cash flow and are not secured by a lien or encumbrance on any of our assets or property. Our consolidated financial statements reflect payments associated with the priority distribution agreement of $16.8 million, $16.3 million and $15.8 million for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

In compliance with the restrictive covenants of our new bank credit facility and indentures, we distributed to the Tribe $58.2 million, $72.6 million and $51.7 million, net of $16.8 million, $16.3 million and $15.8 million, respectively, relating to priority distribution payments for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

Mohegan Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance

On September 25, 1995, the Tribe adopted the Mohegan Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance, or the TERO, which sets forth hiring and contracting preference requirements for employers and entities conducting business on Tribal land or working on behalf of the Tribe. Pursuant to the TERO, as amended, an employer is required to give hiring, promotion, training, retention and other employment-related preferences to Native Americans who meet the minimum qualifications for the applicable employment position. However, this preference requirement does not apply to key employees, as such persons are defined in the TERO.

Similarly, any entity awarding a contract to be performed on Tribal land or on behalf of the Tribe must give preference, first to certified Mohegan entities and second to other certified Indian entities. This contracting preference, however, is limited to contracts of $200,000 or less and is conditioned upon the bid by the preferred certified entity being within 5% of the lowest bid by a non-certified entity. The TERO establishes procedures and requirements for certifying Mohegan entities and other Indian entities. Certification is based largely on the level of ownership and control exercised by the members of the Tribe or other Indian tribes, as the case may be, over the entity bidding on a contract.

As of September 30, 2007, approximately 125 of our employees were members of the Tribe.

 

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Corporate Governance and Management Board Independence

We are governed by a nine-member Management Board, whose members also comprise the Mohegan Tribal Council (the governing body of the Tribe). Any change in the composition of the Mohegan Tribal Council results in a corresponding change in our Management Board. The registered voters of the Tribe elect all members of the Tribal Council. Upon election, the Tribal Council and Management Board members each serve for a four year term on a staggered basis. Incumbent members of the Tribal Council do not nominate candidates for election. Accordingly, the Tribal Council and Management Board do not maintain a nominating committee, nor do they utilize any procedures to screen candidates for election. Instead, the registered voters of the Tribe elect all members of the Tribal Council. In order to qualify for, and seek election to a position on the Tribal Council, a person: (a) must be at least 21 years of age prior to the date of the election; (b) must be a registered voting member of the Tribe in good standing; (c) must not have been convicted of any violation of the Tribal Election Ordinance; and (d) must not have been convicted of either a felony or a misdemeanor involving moral integrity, such as forgery or bribery.

As described above, all members of the Management Board are also members of the Tribal Council and the Tribe. Due to the relationships between the Tribe and the Authority described above, none of the Management Board members would qualify as “independent directors” within the rules of The New York Stock Exchange or the NASDAQ Stock Market.

 

Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services

The following table sets forth the aggregate fees paid or accrued for professional services rendered by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP for the audit of our annual financial statements for fiscal year 2007 and fiscal year 2006 and the aggregate fees paid or accrued for audit-related services and all other services rendered by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP for fiscal year 2007 and fiscal year 2006.

 

     Fiscal Year
2007
   Fiscal Year
2006

Audit fees…

     
   $ 806,981    $ 601,332

Audit-related fees…

     72,941      144,699

Tax fees

     7,400      13,825

All other fees…

     3,000      4,515
             

Total………………

   $ 890,322    $ 764,371
             

The category of “Audit fees” includes fees for our annual audit, quarterly reviews and services rendered in connection with regulatory filings with the SEC, such as the issuance of comfort letters and consents.

The category of “Audit-related fees” includes employee benefit plan audits, internal control reviews and accounting consultation.

The category of “Tax fees” includes consultation related to corporate development activities and the preparation of tax returns for certain subsidiaries.

The category of “All other fees” includes the licensure of accounting and finance research technology owned by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.

All above audit services, audit-related services and tax services were pre-approved by the Audit Committee, which concluded that the provision of such services by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP was compatible with the maintenance of that firm’s independence in the conduct of its auditing functions. The Audit Committee’s outside auditor independence policy provides for pre-approval of all services performed by the outside auditors.

 

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PART IV

Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

A(1). Financial Statements

The following financial statements and reports appear in this Form 10-K beginning on page F-2 and are incorporated by reference in Part II, Item 8:

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm     

Consolidated Balance Sheets of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority as of September 30, 2007 and 2006

  

Consolidated Statements of Income of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority for the Fiscal Years Ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005

  

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Capital of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority for the Fiscal Years Ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005

  

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority for the Fiscal Years Ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005

  

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority

  

A(2). Financial Statement Schedules

The following schedule appears on page S-1 of this Form 10-K and is incorporated by reference herein:

 

Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves for the Fiscal Years Ended
September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005
    

Schedules other than that listed above are omitted because they are not required or are not applicable, or the required information is shown in the consolidated financial statements or notes to the consolidated financial statements.

A (3). Exhibits

The exhibits to this Form 10-K are listed on the exhibit index, which appears elsewhere herein and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, on December 21, 2007.

 

MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

By:

  /s/    BRUCE S. BOZSUM        
   
 

Bruce S. Bozsum

Chairman, Management Board

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed by the following persons on behalf of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority and in the capacities indicated on December 21, 2007.

 

Signature

  

Title

/s/    BRUCE S. BOZSUM        

Bruce S. Bozsum

   Chairman and Member, Management Board

/s/    MARILYNN R. MALERBA        

Marilynn R. Malerba

   Vice Chairman and Member, Management Board

/s/    MITCHELL GROSSINGER ETESS        

Mitchell Grossinger Etess

   Chief Executive Officer, Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (Principal Executive Officer)

/s/    LEO M. CHUPASKA        

Leo M. Chupaska

   Chief Financial Officer, Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

/s/    ALLISON D. JOHNSON        

Allison D. Johnson

   Recording Secretary and Member, Management Board

/s/    RALPH JAMES GESSNER JR.        

Ralph James Gessner Jr.

   Corresponding Secretary and Member, Management Board

/s/    WILLIAM QUIDGEON JR.         

William Quidgeon Jr.

   Treasurer and Member, Management Board

/s/    MARK F. BROWN        

Mark F. Brown

   Member, Management Board

/s/    MARK W. HAMILTON        

Mark W. Hamilton

   Member, Management Board

/s/    CHERYL A. TODD        

Cheryl A. Todd

   Member, Management Board

/s/    THAYNE D. HUTCHINS JR.        

Thayne D. Hutchins Jr.

   Member, Management Board

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION TO BE FURNISHED WITH REPORTS FILED PURSUANT TO SECTION 15(d) OF THE ACT BY REGISTRANTS WHICH HAVE NOT REGISTERED SECURITIES PURSUANT TO SECTION 12 OF THE ACT.

The registrant has not sent an annual report or proxy statement to security holders. The registrant will not be sending an annual report or proxy statement to its security holders subsequent to the filing of this Form 10-K.

 

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INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

   F-2

Consolidated Balance Sheets of Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority as of September 30, 2007 and 2006

   F-3

Consolidated Statements of Income of Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority for the Fiscal Years Ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005

   F-4

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Capital of Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority for the Fiscal Years Ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005

   F-5

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows of Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority for the Fiscal Years Ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005

   F-6

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority

   F-7

 

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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Management Board

of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements listed in the index appearing under Item 15(a)(1) present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority and its subsidiaries (the “Authority”) at September 30, 2007 and 2006, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2007 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedule listed in the index appearing under Item 15(a)(2) presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements. These financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Authority’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits. We conducted our audits of these statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

/s/    PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Hartford, Connecticut

December 20, 2007

 

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MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(in thousands)

 

     September 30,
2007
   September 30,
2006
 
ASSETS      

Current assets:

     

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 105,596    $ 75,246  

Receivables, net

     25,005      27,142  

Inventories

     17,119      15,353  

Other current assets

     19,041      19,967  
               

Total current assets

     166,761      137,708  

Non-current assets:

     

Property and equipment, net

     1,401,206      1,339,823  

Goodwill

     39,459      39,459  

Other intangible assets, net

     394,477      339,649  

Other assets, net

     78,074      57,718  
               

Total assets

   $ 2,079,977    $ 1,914,357  
               
LIABILITIES AND CAPITAL      

Current liabilities:

     

Current portion of long-term debt

   $ 17,591    $ 3,550  

Current portion of relinquishment liability

     96,486      96,936  

Trade payables

     21,975      21,812  

Accrued interest payable

     20,274      21,011  

Other current liabilities

     177,265      129,039  
               

Total current liabilities

     333,591      272,348  

Non-current liabilities:

     

Long-term debt, net of current portion

     1,276,109      1,225,804  

Relinquishment liability, net of current portion

     406,858      451,038  

Other long-term liabilities

     735      542  
               

Total liabilities

     2,017,293      1,949,732  

Minority interests

     3,933      3,480  

Commitments and contingencies

     

Capital:

     

Retained earnings (accumulated deficit)

     58,751      (38,855 )
               

Total capital

     58,751      (38,855 )
               

Total liabilities and capital

   $ 2,079,977    $ 1,914,357  
               

 

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

 

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MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(in thousands)

 

    

For the Fiscal

Year Ended
September 30,

2007

   

For the Fiscal

Year Ended
September 30,

2006

   

For the Fiscal

Year Ended
September 30,

2005

 

Revenues:

      

Gaming

   $ 1,469,343     $ 1,279,835     $ 1,199,823  

Food and beverage

     102,097       95,786       91,994  

Hotel

     47,333       50,818       50,058  

Retail, entertainment and other

     133,139       121,532       112,191  
                        

Gross revenues

     1,751,912       1,547,971       1,454,066  

Less—Promotional allowances

     (131,846 )     (124,917 )     (125,148 )
                        

Net revenues

     1,620,066       1,423,054       1,328,918  
                        

Operating costs and expenses:

      

Gaming

     869,554       720,063       682,978  

Food and beverage

     50,499       49,420       45,019  

Hotel

     16,959       16,883       16,114  

Retail, entertainment and other

     48,214       43,223       35,327  

Advertising, general and administrative

     231,585       201,122       186,446  

Corporate expenses

     10,507       10,558       11,465  

Pre-opening costs and expenses

     3,836       5,130       1,257  

Depreciation and amortization

     93,347       88,016       87,552  

Relinquishment liability reassessment

     2,997       39,407       123,624  
                        

Total operating costs and expenses

     1,327,498       1,173,822       1,189,782  
                        

Income from operations

     292,568       249,232       139,136  
                        

Other income (expense):

      

Accretion of discount to the relinquishment liability

     (29,794 )     (30,707 )     (27,466 )

Interest income

     3,695       2,245       673  

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest

     (94,363 )     (90,928 )     (88,011 )

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

     —         —         (280 )

Write-off of debt issuance costs

     (71 )     —         —    

Other income (expense), net

     (137 )     24,508       (1,127 )
                        

Total other expense

     (120,670 )     (94,882 )     (116,211 )
                        

Income from continuing operations before minority interests

     171,898       154,350       22,925  

Minority interests

     648       420       514  
                        

Income from continuing operations

     172,546       154,770       23,439  

Discontinued operations:

      

Income from discontinued operations

     94       147       228  

Loss on sale of discontinued operations

     (73 )     —         —    
                        

Total income from discontinued operations (Note 17)

     21       147       228  
                        

Net income

   $ 172,567     $ 154,917     $ 23,667  
                        

 

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

 

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MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN CAPITAL

(in thousands)

 

     Total Capital  

Balance, September 30, 2004

   $ (61,039 )

Net income

     23,667  

Distributions to Tribe

     (67,500 )
        

Balance, September 30, 2005

   $ (104,872 )
        

Net income

     154,917  

Distributions to Tribe

     (88,900 )
        

Balance, September 30, 2006

   $ (38,855 )
        

Net income

     172,567  

Distributions to Tribe

     (75,000 )

Capital adjustment from majority-owned subsidiary transaction

     39  
        

Balance, September 30, 2007

   $ 58,751  
        

 

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

 

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MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(in thousands)

 

    For the Fiscal Years Ended  
   

September 30,

2007

   

September 30,

2006

   

September 30,

2005

 
     

Cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities:

     

Net income

  $ 172,567     $ 154,917     $ 23,667  

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows provided by operating activities:

     

Depreciation and amortization

    93,444       88,182       87,678  

Accretion of discount to the relinquishment liability

    29,794       30,707       27,466  

Relinquishment liability reassessment

    2,997       39,407       123,624  

Cash paid for accretion of discount to the relinquishment liability

    (30,022 )     (29,897 )     (28,085 )

Gain on Pocono Downs purchase settlement

    —         (25,444 )     —    

Accretion of discount to the gain on Pocono Downs purchase settlement

    (1,584 )     —         —    

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

    —         —         280  

Net loss on disposition of assets

    1,678       172       1,131  

Net loss on sale of Erie OTW

    73       —         —    

Provision for losses on receivables

    3,396       3,557       2,286  

Amortization of debt issuance costs

    3,835       2,976       3,106  

Write-off of debt issuance costs

    71       —         —    

Amortization of net deferred gain on settlement of derivative instruments

    455       444       711  

Minority interests

    (648 )     (420 )     (514 )

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions:

     

Decrease (increase) in receivables

    1,379       (12,886 )     (2,948 )

(Increase) decrease in inventories

    (1,603 )     573       (680 )

Increase in other assets

    (8,737 )     (9,740 )     (3,989 )

Increase (decrease) in trade payables

    163       (1,038 )     (4,003 )

Increase in other liabilities

    18,831       9,367       17,345  
                       

Net cash flows provided by operating activities

    286,089       250,877       247,075  
                       

Cash flows provided by (used in) investing activities:

     

Purchases of property and equipment, net of increase in construction payables of $28,331, $3,417 and $1,772, respectively

    (133,864 )     (98,503 )     (49,219 )

Payment of Category One slot machine license fee

    (50,000 )     —         —    

Acquisition of Pocono Downs, net of cash acquired of $875

    —         —         (280,114 )

Acquisition of Menominee Project development rights and other related assets

    (6,381 )     —         —    

Acquisition of Pautipaug Country Club assets

    (4,651 )     —         —    

Proceeds from settlement of contract dispute

    2,000       —         —    

Proceeds from asset sales

    362       449       186  

Proceeds from sale of Erie OTW

    6,967       —         —    

Issuance of third party loans and advances

    (4,461 )     (3,405 )     (6,494 )

Payments received on third-party loans

    512       678       463  
                       

Net cash flows used in investing activities

    (189,516 )     (100,781 )     (335,178 )
                       

Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities:

     

Prior Bank Credit Facility borrowings—revolving loan

    278,000       233,000       750,000  

Prior Bank Credit Facility repayments—revolving loan

    (278,000 )     (233,000 )     (838,000 )

Prior Bank Credit Facility borrowings—term loan

    —         —         58,333  

Prior Bank Credit Facility repayments—term loan

    —         —         (150,000 )

New Bank Credit Facility borrowings—revolving loan

    206,000       —         —    

New Bank Credit Facility repayments—revolving loan

    (173,000 )     —         —    

Salishan Credit Facility borrowings—revolving loan

    17,250       —         —    

Line of credit borrowings

    524,313       444,226       474,900  

Line of credit repayments

    (507,722 )     (444,226 )     (479,985 )

Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt

    —         —         400,000  

Payments on long-term debt, including capitalized leases

    (3,584 )     (14,970 )     (2,000 )

Minority interest contributions and advances

    —         1,340       729  

Principal portion of relinquishment liability payments

    (47,399 )     (44,731 )     (42,540 )

Distributions to Tribe

    (75,000 )     (88,900 )     (67,500 )

Capitalized debt issuance costs

    (7,081 )     (14 )     (7,801 )

Net proceeds from the settlement of derivative instruments

    —         —         3,598  
                       

Net cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities

    (66,223 )     (147,275 )     99,734  
                       

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

    30,350       2,821       11,631  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

    75,246       72,425       60,794  
                       

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

  $ 105,596     $ 75,246     $ 72,425  
                       

Supplemental disclosures:

     

Cash paid during the year for interest

  $ 93,532     $ 91,305     $ 80,882  

Acquisition: Pocono Downs

     

Fair value of assets acquired, including cash of $875

  $ —       $ —       $ 285,915  

Cash paid

    —         —         280,989  
                       

Fair value of liabilities assumed

  $ —       $ —       $ 4,926  
                       

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

 

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MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 1—ORGANIZATION AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION:

The Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut (the “Mohegan Tribe” or the “Tribe”) established the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (the “Authority”) in July 1995 with the exclusive power to conduct and regulate gaming activities for the Tribe on Tribal lands and the non-exclusive authority to conduct such activities elsewhere. The Tribe is a federally recognized Indian tribe with an approximately 507-acre reservation situated in southeastern Connecticut, adjacent to Uncasville, Connecticut. Under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988, federally recognized Indian tribes are permitted to conduct full-scale casino gaming operations on tribal land, subject to, among other things, the negotiation of a compact with the affected state. The Tribe and the State of Connecticut have entered into such a compact (the “Mohegan Compact”), which has been approved by the United States Secretary of the Interior. The Authority is primarily engaged in the ownership, operation and development of gaming facilities. On October 12, 1996, the Authority opened a gaming and entertainment complex known as Mohegan Sun. The Authority is governed by a nine-member Management Board, whose members also comprise the Mohegan Tribal Council (the governing body of the Tribe). Any change in the composition of the Tribal Council results in a corresponding change in the Authority’s Management Board.

The Authority has the following wholly owned subsidiaries: Mohegan Basketball Club, LLC (“MBC”), Mohegan Golf, LLC (“Mohegan Golf”), Mohegan Commercial Ventures PA, LLC (“MCV-PA”), Mohegan Ventures-Northwest, LLC (“Mohegan Ventures-NW”), Mohegan Ventures Wisconsin, LLC (“MVW”) and MTGA Gaming, LLC (“MTGA Gaming”). MBC owns and operates a professional basketball team in the Women’s National Basketball Association (“WNBA”), the Connecticut Sun, and owns approximately 3.6% of the membership interests in WNBA, LLC. Mohegan Golf owns and operates the Mohegan Sun Country Club at Pautipaug (“Mohegan Sun Country Club”) golf course in southeastern Connecticut. Refer to Note 3 for further information on Mohegan Golf.

MCV-PA holds a 0.01% general partnership interest in Downs Racing, L.P., Backside, L.P., Mill Creek Land, L.P., and Northeast Concessions, L.P. (collectively, the “Pocono Downs entities”), while the Authority holds a 99.99% limited partnership interest in each such entity. Downs Racing, L.P. (“Downs Racing”) owns and operates Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs, a gaming and entertainment facility offering slot machines and harness racing in Plains Township, Pennsylvania, and several off-track wagering (“OTW”) facilities located elsewhere in Pennsylvania (of which one referred to in Note 17 has been sold to a third party). The Authority views Mohegan Sun and the properties owned by the Pocono Downs entities as separate operating segments.

Mohegan Ventures-NW and the Tribe hold 49.15% and 7.85% membership interests in Salishan-Mohegan, LLC (“Salishan-Mohegan”), respectively, formed with an unrelated third party to participate in the development and management of a casino to be owned by the federally recognized Cowlitz Indian Tribe (the “Cowlitz Tribe”) and located in Clark County, Washington (the “Cowlitz Project”).

MVW and Mohegan Ventures, LLC (“MV”), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Tribe, hold 85.4% and 14.6% membership interests in Wisconsin Tribal Gaming, LLC (“WTG”), respectively, formed to participate in the development of a casino to be owned by the federally recognized Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin (the “Menominee Tribe”) and located in Kenosha, Wisconsin (the “Menominee Project”). Refer to Note 4 for further information on MVW and WTG.

MTGA Gaming was formed in July 2007 to evaluate and pursue new business opportunities on behalf of the Authority. The Authority has designated MTGA Gaming as a restricted subsidiary, and it is therefore a guarantor of the Authority’s debt obligations under the New Bank Credit Facility, the 2005 Senior Notes, the 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes and the 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes, all of which are defined in Note 9.

 

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MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

NOTE 2—SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES:

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Authority and its majority and wholly owned subsidiaries. In accordance with the Financial Accounting Standard Board (“FASB”) Interpretation No. 46(R), “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities (revised December 2003)—an interpretation of ARB No. 51” (“FIN 46”), the accounts of Salishan-Mohegan are consolidated into the accounts of Mohegan Ventures-NW, as it is deemed to be the primary beneficiary. In consolidation, all intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.

Management’s Use of Estimates

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. The most significant estimates included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements relate to the assessment of impairment and useful lives of intangible assets, estimated collectibility of receivables, the relinquishment liability, the liability associated with unredeemed Player’s Club points and employee medical coverage and workers’ compensation self-insurance reserves. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Reclassifications

Certain amounts in the fiscal year 2006 and 2005 consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the fiscal year 2007 presentation.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

The Authority classifies as cash and cash equivalents deposits that can be redeemed on demand and investments with an original maturity of three months or less when purchased. Cash equivalents are carried at cost, which approximates market value.

Receivables

Accounts receivable consists primarily of casino receivables, which represent credit extended to approved casino customers, and hotel and other non-gaming receivables. The Authority maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts which is based on management’s estimate of the amount expected to be uncollectible considering historical experience and the information management obtains regarding the creditworthiness of the customer. Future business or economic trends could affect the collectibility of these receivables.

Receivables from affiliates, which are recorded in other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, consist primarily of reimbursable costs and expenses incurred by: (1) Salishan-Mohegan for the development of a casino in La Center, Washington to be owned by the Cowlitz Tribe (see Note 16) and (2) WTG for the development of a casino in Kenosha, Wisconsin to be owned by the Menominee Tribe (see Note 4). The Salishan-Mohegan receivables are payable upon (1) the receipt of necessary financing for the development of the proposed casino and (2) the related property being taken into trust by the United States Department of the Interior. The WTG receivables are payable upon the receipt of necessary financing for the development of the proposed casino. Due to the inherent uncertainty in the development of these casino projects, the Authority maintains a reserve for doubtful collection of these receivables, which is based on management’s estimate of the probability that the receivables will be collected. Future complications in the receipt of financing, the relevant

 

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MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

land being taken into trust or other matters affecting the development of the casinos could affect the collectibility of the receivables.

Inventories

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market and consist principally of food and beverage, retail, hotel and operating supplies. Cost is determined using an average cost method. The Authority reduces the carrying value of slow moving inventory to net realizable value, which is based on management’s estimate of the amount of inventory that may not be used in future casino operations considering the length of time items are held in inventory and information management obtains regarding the plans to utilize this inventory. Future business trends could affect the timely use of inventories.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation is provided over the estimated useful lives of the assets (other than land) using the straight-line basis. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of the lease term or the estimated useful lives of the improvements. Useful life estimates of asset categories are as follows:

 

Buildings and land improvements

   40 years

Furniture and equipment

   3-7 years

The costs of significant improvements are capitalized. Costs of normal repairs and maintenance are charged to expense as incurred. Gains or losses on disposition of property and equipment are included in the determination of net income.

In accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets” (“SFAS 144”), the carrying value of the Authority’s assets is reviewed when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. If it is determined that an impairment loss has occurred based on current and future levels of income and expected future cash flows as well as other factors, then an impairment loss is recognized in the consolidated statement of income. The Authority believes no such impairment exists at September 30, 2007 and 2006.

Capitalized Interest

The interest cost associated with major development and construction projects is capitalized and included in the cost of the project. When no debt is incurred specifically for a project, interest is capitalized on amounts expended on the project using the weighted-average cost of the Authority’s outstanding borrowings. Capitalization of interest ceases when the project is substantially complete or development activity is suspended for more than a brief period.

Goodwill

In accordance with SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets” (“SFAS 142”), the goodwill associated with the acquisition of the Pocono Downs entities is not subject to amortization but is tested at least annually for impairment by comparing the fair value of the recorded assets to their carrying amount. If the carrying amount of the goodwill exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss will be recognized immediately. The Authority assessed the goodwill for impairment and determined there was no impairment of goodwill at September 30, 2007.

 

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MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Other Intangible Assets

In January 2005, the Authority and its wholly owned subsidiary, MCV-PA, acquired all the partnership interests in the Pocono Downs entities. As part of the acquisition, the Authority gained the right to apply for a Category One slot machine license. The right to apply for the license was determined by management to be an intangible asset with an indefinite useful life. Management, with assistance from a third party valuation firm, estimated the fair value of the intangible asset to be $214.0 million (see Note 13). The third party valuation firm used the Income Approach—Excess Earnings Method. Conditional and permanent Category One slot machine licenses were granted to and approved for Downs Racing by the Pennsylvania Gaming and Control Board (“PGCB”) in September 2006 and December 2006, respectively. A one-time slot machine license fee of $50.0 million was paid to the PGCB in October 2006, which was added to the existing slot machine license intangible asset of $214.0 million. The total slot machine license intangible asset of $264.0 million, with an indefinite useful life, is included in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of September 30, 2007. The slot license intangible asset is assessed at least annually for impairment pursuant to SFAS 142. The Authority applied the fair value test as of September 30, 2007 and 2006 and determined that no impairment existed.

In connection with the Relinquishment Agreement (see Note 14), Trading Cove Associates (“TCA”) granted the Authority an exclusive, irrevocable, perpetual, world-wide and royalty-free license with respect to trademarks and other similar rights, including the “Mohegan Sun” name used at or developed for Mohegan Sun. The trademarks were appraised by an independent valuation firm to have a value of $130.0 million. The independent valuation firm used the Income Approach—Relief from Royalty Method. The balance of the trademark is as follows (in thousands):

 

     As of September 30,  
     2007     2006  

Trademark

   $ 130,000     $ 130,000  

Accumulated amortization

     (10,308 )     (10,308 )
                

Trademark, net

   $ 119,692     $ 119,692  
                

In accordance with SFAS 142, the Mohegan Sun trademark is no longer subject to amortization over its estimated useful life as it has been deemed to have an indefinite useful life. However, SFAS 142 requires the trademark to be evaluated at least annually for impairment by applying a fair-value based test and, if impairment occurs, the amount of the impaired trademark must be written off immediately. The Authority applied the fair value test as of September 30, 2007 and 2006 and determined that no impairment existed.

In January 2003, MBC acquired a membership in the WNBA and the right to own and operate a professional basketball team in the WNBA. As part of the acquisition, management, with the assistance of an independent valuation firm, estimated a fair value for the player roster value, which is recorded as an intangible asset on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, and the remainder of the acquisition cost has been recorded as franchise value, which is also included on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. These assets are being amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. The Authority writes off a portion of the player roster value intangible asset and the related accumulated amortization when a Connecticut Sun player contract that was part of the original player roster is terminated. The loss associated with the write-off is included in depreciation and amortization expense in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. Refer to Note 15 for further discussion regarding the Authority’s accounting for these assets.

In March 2007, WTG purchased the development rights for the Menominee Project, along with certain other assets, and assumed certain liabilities from Kenesah Gaming Development, LLC. The development rights, determined by management to be an intangible asset with an estimated fair value of $3.7 million, are included in

 

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MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of September 30, 2007. The development rights intangible asset will be amortized on a straight line basis over its estimated useful life of seven years, which will commence upon the opening of the proposed casino, and will be periodically reviewed for impairment in accordance with SFAS 142. The Authority has determined that no impairment exists as of September 30, 2007. Refer to Note 4 for further discussion regarding the Authority’s accounting for this asset.

In May 2007, Mohegan Golf completed the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Pautipaug Country Club Inc. (“PCC”), including a membership intangible asset resulting from the contractual agreement with PCC’s members established at the time of acquisition, valued at $1.7 million. The membership intangible asset is included in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of September 30, 2007, and is being amortized on a straight line basis over its estimated useful life of fifteen years, and will be periodically reviewed for impairment in accordance with SFAS 142. The Authority has determined that no impairment exists as of September 30, 2007. Refer to Note 3 for further discussion regarding the Authority’s accounting for this asset.

Deferred Financing Costs

Debt issuance costs incurred in connection with the issuance of long-term debt are capitalized and amortized to interest expense based on the related debt agreements using the straight-line method, which approximates the effective interest method. The unamortized amounts are included in other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

Unredeemed Player’s Club Points

The Authority maintains an accrual for unredeemed Player’s Club points. The accrual is based on the estimated cost of the points expected to be redeemed as of the respective balance sheet date. Management determines the adequacy of this accrual by periodically evaluating the historical redemption experience and projected trends related to this accrual. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Self-insurance Accruals

The Authority is self-insured up to certain limits for costs associated with workers’ compensation and employee medical coverage. Liabilities for insurance claims and reserves include accruals of estimated settlements for known claims, as well as accruals of estimates of incurred but not reported claims. These accruals are included in other current liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. In estimating these costs, the Authority considers historical loss experience and makes judgments about the expected levels of costs per claim. The Authority also uses information provided by independent consultants to assist in the determination of estimated accruals. These claims are accounted for based on estimates of the undiscounted claims, including those claims incurred but not reported. The Authority believes the use of these estimates to account for these liabilities provides a consistent and effective way to measure these accruals; however, changes in health care costs, accident frequency and severity and other factors can materially affect the estimate for these liabilities. The Authority continually monitors the potential changes in future estimates, evaluates insurance accruals and makes adjustments when necessary.

Relinquishment Liability

The Authority, in accordance with SFAS No. 5, “Accounting for Contingencies” (“SFAS 5”), has recorded a relinquishment liability of the estimated present value of its obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement (see Note 14). The Authority reassesses the relinquishment liability (i) annually in conjunction with the Authority’s budgeting process or (ii) when necessary to account for material increases or decreases in projected

 

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MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

revenues over the relinquishment period. If the reassessment causes an overall increase to the projected revenues over the relinquishment period, the relinquishment liability will be increased by five percent of such increase in revenues, discounted at the Authority’s risk-free rate of investment (an incremental layer). If the reassessment causes an overall decrease to the projected revenues over the relinquishment period, the relinquishment liability will be decreased by five percent of such decrease in revenues, discounted based upon a weighted-average discount rate (a decremental layer). The weighted-average discount rate is defined as the average discount rate used to discount all the previous incremental layers weighted by the amount of each such incremental layer. Further, the Authority records a quarterly accretion to the relinquishment liability to reflect the impact of the time value of money. Since there is a high level of estimates and judgments used with respect to calculating this liability, future events that affect such estimates and judgments may cause the actual liability to differ significantly from the estimate.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The fair value amounts presented below are reported to satisfy the disclosure requirements of SFAS No. 107, “Disclosures about Fair Values of Financial Instruments” (“SFAS 107”), and are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that the Authority could realize in a current market exchange.

The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, promissory notes, mortgages and bank financing facilities approximate fair value. The fair value of the Authority’s other financing facilities is as follows (in millions):

 

     As of September 30,
     2007    2006

2005 61/8% Senior Notes

   $ 239.7    $ 244.4

2001 8 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes

   $ 16.3    $ 17.0

2002 8% Senior Subordinated Notes

   $ 254.1    $ 258.8

2003 6 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes

   $ 326.7    $ 327.5

2004 71/8% Senior Subordinated Notes

   $ 225.3    $ 223.9

2005 67/8% Senior Subordinated Notes

   $ 146.8    $ 146.3

The estimated fair value of the Authority’s other financing facilities was based on quoted market prices on or about September 30, 2007.

Revenue Recognition

The Authority recognizes gaming revenue as gaming wins less gaming losses. Revenues from food and beverage, hotel, retail, entertainment and other services are recognized at the time the service is performed. Minimum rental revenues are recognized on a straight-line basis over the terms of the related leases. Percentage rents are recognized in the period in which the tenants exceed their respective percentage rent thresholds.

Promotional Allowances

The Authority operates a complimentary Player’s Club program in which food and beverage, hotel, retail, entertainment and other services are provided to guests at Mohegan Sun and Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs based on points that are earned through gaming activities. The retail value of these complimentary items is included in gross revenues and then deducted as promotional allowances, except for the redemption at third party tenant restaurants and the Shops at Mohegan Sun, which are charged directly to gaming expenses.

 

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MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

In addition, the Authority has ongoing promotional programs which offer coupons to its guests for the purchase of food, beverages, hotel and retail amenities offered at Mohegan Sun, and food, beverages and retail amenities offered at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs. The retail value of items or services purchased with coupons at Mohegan Sun operated facilities and at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs is included in gross revenues and the respective coupon value is deducted as promotional allowances to arrive at net revenues.

The retail value of providing such promotional allowances was included in revenues as follows (in thousands):

 

     For the Fiscal Years Ended
September 30,
     2007    2006    2005

Food and beverage

   $ 48,138    $ 46,894    $ 44,757

Hotel

     16,385      17,356      16,292

Retail, entertainment and other

     67,323      60,667      64,099
                    

Total

   $ 131,846    $ 124,917    $ 125,148
                    

The estimated cost of providing such promotional allowances was included in operating costs and expenses, primarily gaming, as follows (in thousands):

 

     For the Fiscal Years Ended
September 30,
     2007    2006    2005

Food and beverage

   $ 49,243    $ 48,352    $ 44,877

Hotel

     8,866      8,734      7,731

Retail, entertainment and other

     54,781      46,874      49,372
                    

Total

   $ 112,890    $ 103,960    $ 101,980
                    

The Authority records free or discounted food and beverage and other services in accordance with Emerging Issues Task Force Issue No. 01-9 “Accounting for Consideration Given by a Vendor to a Customer or a Reseller of the Vendor’s Products.” The Authority also offers cash inducements and discounts on patron losses at Mohegan Sun in certain circumstances that result in a reduction to gaming revenues. The offsets to gaming revenues were $10.3 million, $11.2 million and $4.4 million relating to discounts provided on patron losses for fiscal years ending September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively, and $752,000, $577,000 and $266,000 relating to Player’s Club points redeemed for cash for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

Gaming Expenses

Gaming expenses primarily include the slot win contribution, which the Authority is required to pay to the State of Connecticut (see Note 13), gaming taxes and regulatory fees, which the Authority is required to pay to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (see Note 13), expenses associated with operation of slot machines, table games, keno, live harness racing at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs and racebook, certain marketing expenses, and promotional expenses for the Player’s Club programs offered at Mohegan Sun and Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs.

 

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MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Advertising

The Authority expenses the production costs of advertising the first time the advertising takes place. Prepaid rental fees associated with billboard advertising are capitalized and amortized over the term of the related rental agreement. Total advertising costs for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005 were $42.8 million, $39.3 million and $39.8 million, respectively. The Company did not record any prepaid advertising at September 30, 2007. Prepaid advertising on the Authority’s consolidated balance sheet at September 30, 2006 was $573,000.

Corporate Expenses

Corporate expenses represent unallocated payroll costs, professional fees and various other expenses not directly related to the Authority’s operations at Mohegan Sun or Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs. In addition, corporate expenses include the costs associated with the Authority’s evaluation and pursuit of new business opportunities, which are expensed as incurred until development of a specific project has become probable.

Pre-Opening Costs and Expenses

For the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005, pre-opening costs and expenses consisted primarily of direct incremental personnel, consulting and other costs associated with the development of a Phase I slot facility at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs. Construction of the Phase I slot facility commenced in September 2005 and was completed in November 2006. In accordance with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants’ Statement of Position 98-5, “Reporting on the Costs of Start-Up Activities,” pre-opening costs and expenses were expensed as incurred.

Income Taxes

The Tribe is a sovereign Indian nation with independent legal jurisdiction over its people and its lands. Like other sovereign governments, the Tribe and its entities, including the Authority, are not subject to federal, state or local income taxes.

New Accounting Pronouncements

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“FAS 157”). FAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. This standard does not require any new fair value measurements. FAS 157 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, and interim periods within those fiscal years. However, the FASB did provide a one year deferral for the implementation of FAS 157 for other nonfinancial assets and liabilities. The Authority does not believe the adoption of this standard will have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In September 2006, the Securities and Exchange Commission issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 108 (“SAB 108”), which provides guidance on the consideration of the effects of prior year financial statement misstatements in quantifying current year financial statement misstatements for the purpose of a materiality assessment. SAB 108 is effective for annual financial statements issued for fiscal years ending after November 15, 2006. The application of this guidance did not have a material impact on the Authority’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007.

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities” (“FAS 159”). FAS 159 provides entities with the option to measure many financial

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

instruments and certain other items at fair value that are not currently required to be measured at fair value, and also establishes presentation and disclosure requirements designed to facilitate comparisons between entities that choose different measurement attributes for similar types of assets and liabilities. This standard is intended to expand the use of fair value measurement, but does not require any new fair value measurements. FAS 159 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. The Authority is currently evaluating the potential impact of this standard on its financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141(R), “Business Combinations” (“FAS 141(R)”) and SFAS No. 160, “Non-controlling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements” (“FAS 160”). FAS 141(R) requires the acquiring entity in a business combination to record all assets acquired and liabilities assumed at their respective acquisition-date fair values and changes other practices under FAS 141. FAS 141(R) also requires additional disclosure of information surrounding a business combination, such that users of the entity’s financial statements can fully understand the nature and financial impact of the business combination. FAS 160 requires entities to report non-controlling (minority) interests in subsidiaries as equity in the consolidated financial statements. The Authority is required to adopt FAS 141(R) and FAS 160 simultaneously in its fiscal year beginning October 1, 2009. The provisions of FAS 141(R) will only impact the Authority if it is party to a business combination after the pronouncement has been adopted. The Authority is currently evaluating the effects, if any, that FAS 160 may have on its financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

NOTE 3—MOHEGAN GOLF, LLC:

On May 17, 2007, Mohegan Golf completed the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of PCC located in Sprague and Franklin, Connecticut, which was renamed Mohegan Sun Country Club at Pautipaug. Mohegan Golf incurred acquisition costs of $4.7 million for the property and other items acquired from PCC, which was allocated among the following assets and liabilities: (1) property and equipment valued at $3.1 million; (2) a membership intangible asset resulting from the contractual agreement with PCC’s members established at the time of acquisition, valued at $1.7 million; (3) current assets of $210,000; (4) environmental obligations of $300,000; and (5) capital lease obligations of $34,000. The membership intangible asset will be amortized on a straight line basis over its estimated useful life of fifteen years and will be periodically reviewed for impairment in accordance with SFAS 142. As of September 30, 2007, accumulated amortization on the membership intangible asset was $43,000. The Authority expects to incur $113,000 in amortization expense for each of the next five years related to the membership intangible asset. The results of operations for Mohegan Sun Country Club are included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements from date of acquisition (May 17, 2007) through September 30, 2007. Pro forma operating results for the 2007 acquisition are not presented because the results would not be materially different from historical results.

NOTE 4—MOHEGAN VENTURES WISCONSIN, LLC (MENOMINEE PROJECT):

In March 2007, the Authority formed a wholly owned subsidiary, MVW, one of two members in WTG. WTG is a majority-owned subsidiary of the Authority also formed in March 2007, whose other member is MV, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Tribe. The Authority has designated MVW and WTG as restricted subsidiaries, and they are therefore guarantors of the Authority’s debt obligations under the New Bank Credit Facility, the 2005 Senior Notes, the 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes and the 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes, all of which are defined in Note 9.

 

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MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

In March 2007, WTG purchased the development rights for the Menominee Project, along with certain other assets, and assumed certain liabilities from Kenesah Gaming Development, LLC (“KGD”). As a result of the purchase, the Authority and the Mohegan Tribe, through MVW and MV, respectively, will receive development fees payable to WTG of 13.4% of Available Revenue Flow, as defined in the development agreement with the Menominee Tribe and the Menominee Kenosha Gaming Authority (“MKGA”), which approximates net income from the Menominee Project over a period of seven years following the opening of the casino. The Authority also currently holds the rights to manage, operate and maintain the planned casino for a period of seven years commencing with the opening of the casino, in consideration of a management fee of 13.4% of Net Revenues, as defined in the management agreement with the Menominee Tribe and MKGA, which also approximates net income from the Menominee Project. The management agreement is subject to approval by the National Indian Gaming Commission (the “NIGC”).

WTG paid $6.4 million in cash for the casino development rights and other items acquired from KGD, which was allocated among the following assets and liabilities: (1) receivables at fair value from MKGA of $4.4 million for project advances; (2) a development rights intangible asset valued at $3.7 million; (3) a note payable to MV of $1.1 million; and (4) a note payable to MKGA of $600,000. The purchase amount was contributed by MVW in return for its initial membership interest in WTG, and MV converted the $1.1 million receivable from WTG to capital in return for its initial membership interest in WTG. The development rights intangible asset will be amortized on a straight line basis over its estimated useful life of seven years, which will commence upon the opening of the proposed casino, and will be periodically reviewed for impairment in accordance with SFAS 142. Pursuant to the development agreement, the receivables from MKGA, and related accrued interest, generally are reimbursable to WTG upon the receipt of necessary financing for the development of the proposed casino.

NOTE 5—CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS:

At September 30, 2007 and 2006, the Authority had cash and cash equivalents of $105.6 million and $75.2 million, respectively. As of September 30, 2007, no amounts were invested in deposits that could be redeemed on demand and investments with original maturities of less than three months when purchased compared to $980,000 at September 30, 2006. For reporting purposes, cash and cash equivalents include all operating cash and in-house funds.

NOTE 6—RECEIVABLES, NET:

Components of receivables, net are as follows (in thousands):

 

     As of September 30,  
     2007     2006  

Gaming

   $ 21,485     $ 23,972  

Hotel

     1,263       1,318  

Other

     6,271       5,296  
                

Subtotal

     29,019       30,586  

Allowance for doubtful accounts

     (4,014 )     (3,444 )
                

Total receivables, net

   $ 25,005     $ 27,142  
                

 

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MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

NOTE 7—PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET:

Components of property and equipment, net are as follows (in thousands):

 

     As of September 30,  
     2007     2006  

Land

   $ 57,247     $ 60,007  

Land improvements

     48,313       48,317  

Buildings and improvements

     1,332,138       1,268,544  

Furniture and equipment

     426,330       382,382  

Construction in process

     75,898       48,873  
                

Subtotal

     1,939,926       1,808,123  

Less: accumulated depreciation

     (538,720 )     (468,300 )
                

Total property plant and equipment, net

   $ 1,401,206     $ 1,339,823  
                

For the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005, depreciation expense totaled $92.8 million, $87.2 million and $86.5 million, respectively. Capitalized interest totaled $1.7 million, $1.2 million and $21,000 for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

NOTE 8—OTHER CURRENT ASSETS AND OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES:

Components of other current assets are as follows (in thousands):

 

     As of September 30,
     2007    2006

Prepaid expenses

   $ 7,273    $ 11,098

Non-qualified deferred compensation

     11,768      8,869
             

Total other current assets

   $ 19,041    $ 19,967
             

Components of other current liabilities are as follows (in thousands):

 

     As of September 30,
     2007    2006

Accrued payroll and related taxes and benefits

   $ 60,927    $ 53,876

Slot win contribution payable (Note 13)

     19,317      19,547

Construction Payables

     33,648      5,317

Miscellaneous other current liabilities

     63,373      50,299
             

Total other current liabilities

   $ 177,265    $ 129,039
             

 

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MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

NOTE 9—FINANCING FACILITIES:

Financing facilities, as described below, consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

     September 30,
2007
   September 30,
2006

New Bank Credit Facility

   $ 33,000    $ —  

2005 6 1/8% Senior Notes

     250,000      250,000

2001 8 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes

     16,345      16,345

2002 8% Senior Subordinated Notes

     250,000      250,000

2003 6 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes

     330,000      330,000

2004 7 1/8% Senior Subordinated Notes

     225,000      225,000

2005 6 7/8% Senior Subordinated Notes

     150,000      150,000

WNBA Promissory Note

     4,000      5,000

Line of Credit

     16,591      —  

Salishan Credit Facility

     17,250      —  

Mortgage—Salishan-Mohegan

     —        2,550

MKGA Note Payable (Note 4)

     600      —  
             

Subtotal

     1,292,786      1,228,895

Net deferred gain on derivative instruments sold

     914      459
             

Total debt

   $ 1,293,700    $ 1,229,354
             

Maturities of the Authority’s debt as of September 30, 2007 are as follows (in thousands):

 

Fiscal Year

   Long-Term Debt
Maturities

2008

   $ 17,591

2009

     348,250

2010

     1,000

2011

     17,345

2012

     283,000

Thereafter

     625,600
      

Subtotal

   $ 1,292,786
      

Prior Bank Credit Facility

On March 9, 2007, the Authority repaid the entire outstanding $55.0 million of indebtedness under its Amended and Restated Loan Agreement dated March 25, 2003, as amended (the “Prior Bank Credit Facility”), for up to $450.0 million from a syndicate of financial institutions and commercial banks. As of March 9, 2007, the Prior Bank Credit Facility was extinguished and certain unamortized debt issuance costs of $71,000 were charged as a write-off of debt issuance costs in the accompanying consolidated statement of income for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007. Accrued interest, including commitment fees, on the Prior Bank Credit Facility was $825,000 as of September 30, 2006.

New Bank Credit Facility

On March 9, 2007, the Authority entered into a Second Amended and Restated Loan Agreement (the “New Bank Credit Facility”) providing for up to $1.0 billion in borrowing capacity from a syndicate of 23 financial institutions and commercial banks, with Bank of America, N.A. serving as Administrative Agent. The New Bank

 

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MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Credit Facility replaces the Authority’s Prior Bank Credit Facility. The total commitment on the new facility may be increased to $1.25 billion at the option of the Authority. The five-year senior secured revolving credit facility includes a $300.0 million term loan conversion provision which is triggered upon the initial accumulation of $300.0 million in total borrowings on the New Bank Credit Facility. The term loan requires principal payments in quarterly installments of $750,000 after the conversion date until the maturity date of March 9, 2012, upon which the remaining balances outstanding on the term loan and any revolving loans are payable. As of September 30, 2007, the amount under letters of credit totaled $6.8 million, of which no amount was drawn (refer to “Letters of Credit” below). Inclusive of letters of credit, which reduce borrowing availability under the New Bank Credit Facility, the Authority had approximately $960.2 million of available borrowing under the New Bank Credit Facility as of September 30, 2007 (without taking into account covenants under the Line of Credit described below).

The New Bank Credit Facility is collateralized by a lien on substantially all of the Authority’s assets, including the assets comprising Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs and a leasehold mortgage on the land previously taken into trust by the federal government and improvements which comprise Mohegan Sun. The Authority will also be required to pledge additional assets as collateral for the New Bank Credit Facility as it or its guarantor subsidiaries acquire them. The Authority’s obligations under the New Bank Credit Facility are guaranteed by MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, MCV-PA, the Pocono Downs entities, Mohegan Golf, MVW, WTG and MTGA Gaming. The New Bank Credit Facility subjects the Authority to a number of restrictive covenants, including financial covenants. These financial covenants relate to, among other things, its permitted total debt and senior debt leverage ratios, its minimum fixed charge coverage ratio, the Authority’s maximum capital expenditures and a periodic test which ensures that the Authority has sufficient liquidity under its New Bank Credit Facility and other allowed borrowings, projected cash flows over applicable construction periods and existing cash and cash equivalents to cover planned construction expenditures. The New Bank Credit Facility includes non-financial covenants by the Authority and the Tribe of the type customarily found in loan agreements for similar transactions including requirements that:

 

   

the Tribe preserve its existence as a federally recognized Indian tribe;

 

   

the Tribe cause the Authority to continually operate Mohegan Sun in compliance with all applicable laws; and

 

   

except under specific conditions, limit the Authority from selling or disposing of its assets, limit the transfer of the Authority’s and its guarantor subsidiaries’ assets to its non-guarantor subsidiary, limit the incurrence by the Authority and its guarantor subsidiaries of other debt or contingent obligations and limit the Authority’s and its guarantor subsidiaries’ ability to extend credit, make investments or commingle their assets with assets of the Tribe.

As of September 30, 2007, the Authority and the Tribe were in compliance with all of their respective covenant requirements in the New Bank Credit Facility.

At the Authority’s option, each advance of loan proceeds accrues interest on the basis of a base rate or on the basis of a one-month, two-month, three-month, six-month or twelve-month Eurodollar rate, plus in either case, the Applicable Rate based on the Authority’s Total Leverage Ratio, as each term is defined in the New Bank Credit Facility, at the time each loan is made. The Authority also pays commitment fees for the unused portion of the revolving loan on a quarterly basis equal to the product obtained by multiplying the Applicable Rate for commitment fees by the average daily unused commitment for that calendar quarter. The Applicable Rate for base rate advances is between 0.000% and 1.125%, and the Applicable Rate for Eurodollar rate advances is between 1.250% and 2.375%. The Applicable Rate for commitment fees is between 0.200% and 0.350%. The base rate is the higher of Bank of America’s announced prime rate or the federal funds rate plus

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

0.50%. Interest on Eurodollar loans is payable at the end of each applicable interest period or quarterly in arrears, if earlier. Interest on base rate advances is payable quarterly in arrears. As of September 30, 2007, the Authority had $33.0 million in Eurodollar rate loans and no base rate loans outstanding. The Eurodollar rate loans outstanding at September 30, 2007 were comprised of: (1) a $24.0 million loan based on a one-month Eurodollar rate of 5.75% plus an Applicable Rate of 1.25% and (2) a $9.0 million loan based on a one-month Eurodollar rate of 5.50% plus an Applicable Rate of 1.25%. The Applicable Rate for commitment fees was 0.20% as of September 30, 2007. Accrued interest, including commitment fees, on the New Bank Credit Facility was $96,000 as of September 30, 2007.

The initial advances under the New Bank Credit Facility on March 9, 2007 totaled $62.0 million in base rate advances under the revolving loan. The proceeds from these advances were used to refinance the Authority’s Prior Bank Credit Facility, pay costs related to entering into the New Bank Credit Facility and fund certain operating costs.

2005 6 1/8% Senior Notes

On February 8, 2005, the Authority issued $250.0 million Senior Notes with fixed interest payable at a rate of 6.125% per annum (the “2005 Senior Notes”). The net proceeds from this financing were used to repay amounts outstanding under the Prior Bank Credit Facility and to pay fees and expenses associated with the issuance. The 2005 Senior Notes mature on February 15, 2013. The first call date for the 2005 Senior Notes is February 15, 2009. Interest on the 2005 Senior Notes is payable semi-annually on February 15 and August 15. The 2005 Senior Notes are uncollateralized general obligations of the Authority, which are effectively subordinated to all of the existing and future senior secured indebtedness of the Authority, including the New Bank Credit Facility. The 2005 Senior Notes rank equally in right of payment with 50% of the Authority’s payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing and rank senior to the remaining 50% of the Authority’s payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing, the 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes and the 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes. MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, MCV-PA, the Pocono Downs entities, Mohegan Golf, MVW, WTG and MTGA Gaming are guarantors of the 2005 Senior Notes. Refer to Note 19 for condensed consolidating financial information of the Authority, its guarantor subsidiaries and its non-guarantor subsidiary. As of September 30, 2007 and September 30, 2006, accrued interest on the 2005 Senior Notes was $1.9 million.

2001 8 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes

In July 2001, the Authority issued $150.0 million Senior Subordinated Notes with fixed interest payable at a rate of 8.375% per annum (the “2001 Senior Subordinated Notes”). The proceeds from this financing were used to pay transaction costs, pay down $90.0 million on the then existing bank credit facility and fund costs related to Project Sunburst. Interest on the 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes is payable semi-annually on January 1 and July 1. The 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes mature on July 1, 2011. The first call date for the 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes was July 1, 2006. The 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes are uncollateralized general obligations of the Authority and are subordinated to the New Bank Credit Facility, the 2005 Senior Notes and in a liquidation, bankruptcy or similar proceeding, 50% of the Authority’s payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing. The 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes rank equally with the 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes and the remaining 50% of the Authority’s payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing. MBC is a guarantor of the 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes. Refer to Note 19 for condensed consolidating financial information of the Authority, its guarantor subsidiaries and its non-guarantor subsidiary.

 

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MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

In August 2004, the Authority completed a cash tender offer and consent solicitation to repurchase any or all of its outstanding 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes. As part of the tender offer, the Authority solicited and received requisite consents to certain proposed amendments to the indentures governing the 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes, which eliminated substantially all of the restrictive covenants thereunder. The aggregate principal amount of 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes tendered was $133.7 million. An aggregate principal amount of $16.3 million of the 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes remain outstanding as of September 30, 2007. As of September 30, 2007 and September 30, 2006, accrued interest on the 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes was $342,000.

2002 8% Senior Subordinated Notes

In February 2002, the Authority issued $250.0 million Senior Subordinated Notes with fixed interest payable at a rate of 8.0% per annum (the “2002 Senior Subordinated Notes”). The proceeds from this financing were used to pay transaction costs and pay down $243.0 million on the then existing bank credit facility. Interest on the 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes is payable semi-annually on April 1 and October 1. The 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes mature on April 1, 2012. The first call date for the 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes was April 1, 2007. The 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes are uncollateralized general obligations of the Authority and are subordinated to the New Bank Credit Facility, the 2005 Senior Notes and, in a liquidation, bankruptcy or similar proceeding, 50% of the Authority’s payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing. The 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes rank equally with the 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes and the remaining 50% of the Authority’s payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing. MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, MCV-PA, the Pocono Downs entities, Mohegan Golf, MVW, WTG and MTGA Gaming are guarantors of the 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes. Refer to Note 19 for condensed consolidating financial information of the Authority, its guarantor subsidiaries and its non-guarantor subsidiary. As of September 30, 2007 and September 30, 2006, accrued interest on the 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes was $10.0 million.

2003 6 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes

In July 2003, the Authority issued $330.0 million Senior Subordinated Notes with fixed interest payable at a rate of 6.375% per annum (the “2003 Senior Subordinated Notes”). The proceeds from this financing were used to repurchase substantially all of the outstanding $300.0 million 8.75% Senior Subordinated Notes issued in March 1999 and to pay fees and expenses associated with the issuance. Interest on the 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes is payable semi-annually on January 15 and July 15. The 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes mature on July 15, 2009. The 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes are uncollateralized general obligations of the Authority and are subordinated to the New Bank Credit Facility, the 2005 Senior Notes and, in a liquidation, bankruptcy or similar proceeding, 50% of the Authority’s payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing. The 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes rank equally with the 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes and the remaining 50% of the Authority’s payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing. MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, MCV-PA, the Pocono Downs entities, Mohegan Golf, MVW, WTG and MTGA Gaming are guarantors of the 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes. Refer to Note 19 for condensed consolidating financial information of the Authority, its guarantor subsidiaries and its non-guarantor subsidiary. As of September 30, 2007 and September 30, 2006, accrued interest on the 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes was $4.4 million.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

2004 7 1/8% Senior Subordinated Notes

In August 2004, the Authority issued $225.0 million Senior Subordinated Notes with fixed interest payable at a rate of 7.125% per annum (the “2004 Senior Subordinated Notes”). The net proceeds from this financing, together with $130.0 million of availability under the Prior Bank Credit Facility, were used to repurchase substantially all of the outstanding 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes and substantially all of the outstanding 1999 Senior Notes tendered in the tender offers described above and to pay fees and expenses associated with the issuance. The 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes mature on August 15, 2014. The first call date for the 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes is August 15, 2009. Interest on the 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes is payable semi-annually on February 15 and August 15. The 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes are uncollateralized general obligations of the Authority and are subordinated to the New Bank Credit Facility, the 2005 Senior Notes and, in a liquidation, bankruptcy or similar proceeding, 50% of the Authority’s payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing. The 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes rank equally with the 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes and the remaining 50% of the Authority’s payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing. MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, MCV-PA, the Pocono Downs entities, Mohegan Golf, MVW, WTG and MTGA Gaming are guarantors of the 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes. Refer to Note 19 for condensed consolidating financial information of the Authority, its guarantor subsidiaries and its non-guarantor subsidiary. As of September 30, 2007 and September 30, 2006, accrued interest on the 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes was $2.0 million.

2005 6 7/8% Senior Subordinated Notes

On February 8, 2005, the Authority issued $150.0 million Senior Subordinated Notes with fixed interest payable at a rate of 6.875% per annum (the “2005 Senior Subordinated Notes”). The net proceeds from this financing were used to repay amounts outstanding under the Prior Bank Credit Facility and to pay fees and expenses associated with the issuance. The 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes mature on February 15, 2015. The first call date for the 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes is February 15, 2010. Interest on the 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes is payable semi-annually on February 15 and August 15. The 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes are uncollateralized general obligations of the Authority and are subordinated to the New Bank Credit Facility, the 2005 Senior Notes and in a liquidation, bankruptcy or similar proceeding, 50% of the Authority’s payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing. The 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes rank equally with the 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes, the 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes and the remaining 50% of the Authority’s payment obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement that are then due and owing. MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, MCV-PA, the Pocono Downs entities, Mohegan Golf, MVW, WTG and MTGA Gaming are guarantors of the 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes. Refer to Note 19 for condensed consolidating financial information of the Authority, its guarantor subsidiaries and its non-guarantor subsidiary. As of September 30, 2007 and September 30, 2006, accrued interest on the 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes was $1.3 million.

The senior and senior subordinated note indentures contain certain financial and non-financial covenants with which the Authority and the Tribe must comply. The financial covenants include, among other things, limitations on restricted payments and the incurrence of indebtedness, while the non-financial covenants include, among other things, reporting obligations, compliance with laws and regulations and the Authority’s continued existence. As of September 30, 2007, both the Authority and the Tribe were in compliance with all of their respective covenant requirements in the senior and senior subordinated note indentures.

 

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MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

WNBA Promissory Note

The Authority and MBC are parties to a membership agreement with WNBA, LLC (the “Membership Agreement”). The Membership Agreement sets forth the terms and conditions pursuant to which MBC acquired a membership in the WNBA and the right to own and operate a professional basketball team in the WNBA. The Authority guaranteed the obligations of MBC under the Membership Agreement.

In consideration for this acquisition, MBC paid $2.0 million (with funds advanced from the Authority) and issued a promissory note to the WNBA (the “WNBA Note”) for $8.0 million that accrues interest at an annual rate equal to a three-month Eurodollar rate plus 1.5%. The Authority guaranteed the obligations of MBC under the WNBA Note. Pursuant to the WNBA Note, principal payments of $1.0 million, subject to adjustment for certain revenue thresholds, and interest payments are required to be paid to the WNBA on each anniversary of the WNBA Note. The WNBA Note is scheduled to mature in January 2011, but will mature no later than January 2013. As of September 30, 2007 and 2006, accrued interest on the WNBA Note was $187,000 and $224,000, respectively. Refer to Note 15 for a further discussion of the Authority’s investment in a WNBA franchise.

Line of Credit

The Authority has a $25.0 million revolving loan agreement with Bank of America (the “Line of Credit”). Each advance accrues interest on the basis of a one-month Eurodollar rate, plus the Applicable Margin determined on the basis of the Authority’s Leverage Ratio, as each term is defined in the Line of Credit. Borrowings under the Line of Credit are uncollateralized obligations of the Authority. The Line of Credit matures on March 31, 2008 and subjects the Authority to certain covenants, including a covenant to maintain at least $25.0 million available for borrowing under the New Bank Credit Facility. As of September 30, 2007, the Authority had $16.6 million in loans outstanding under the Line of Credit, which were based on a one-month Eurodollar rate of 5.14% plus an Applicable Margin of 0.90%. As of September 30, 2007, the Authority was in compliance with all covenant requirements in the Line of Credit and had $8.4 million available for borrowing under the Line of Credit. As of September 30, 2007 and 2006, accrued interest on the Line of Credit was $17,000 and $9,000, respectively.

Mortgage Payable

In July 2004, the Authority’s wholly owned subsidiary, Mohegan Ventures-NW, formed a limited liability company, Salishan-Mohegan, with Salishan Company, LLC (“Salishan Company”), an unrelated third party. Upon formation of Salishan-Mohegan, Salishan Company contributed, among other things, land with a mortgage payable of $2.6 million. The mortgage payable bore interest due on a monthly basis at an annual rate of 9.5%, with the principal balance payable in full by Salishan-Mohegan on the maturity date of March 28, 2007. Any and all amounts paid by Salishan-Mohegan, including interest payments, pursuant to this agreement are reimbursable by the Cowlitz Tribe provided certain events occur, as described in the development agreement between Salishan-Mohegan and the Cowlitz Tribe. In October 2006, Salishan-Mohegan paid off the mortgage payable with loan proceeds from the Salishan Credit Facility described below. Accrued interest on the mortgage payable was $20,000 as of September 30, 2006.

Salishan-Mohegan Bank Credit Facility

In October 2006, Salishan-Mohegan entered into a $25.0 million revolving loan agreement with Bank of America (the “Salishan Credit Facility”), which matures on September 30, 2009. The revolving loan has no mandatory amortization provisions and is payable in full at maturity. At the option of Salishan-Mohegan, each advance of loan proceeds accrues interest on the basis of a base rate or on the basis of a one-month, two-month,

 

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three-month or six-month Eurodollar rate, plus a spread of 1.25% for base rate loans and 2.25% for Eurodollar loans. The base rate is the higher of Bank of America’s announced prime rate or the federal funds rate plus 0.50%. The Salishan Credit Facility is collateralized by a lien on substantially all of the existing and future assets of Salishan-Mohegan. The obligations of Salishan-Mohegan under the Salishan Credit Facility are also guaranteed by the Tribe. The Salishan Credit Facility subjects Salishan-Mohegan to a number of restrictive covenants, including financial and non-financial covenants customarily found in loan agreements for similar transactions.

Immediately following the execution of the loan agreement, $10.0 million in loan proceeds were used by Salishan-Mohegan to provide a partial repayment of its outstanding loan balance with Mohegan Ventures-NW. Another $2.6 million in loan proceeds were used to pay off a mortgage payable. As of September 30, 2007, Salishan-Mohegan had $7.7 million of available borrowings under the Salishan Credit Facility. As of September 30, 2007, Salishan-Mohegan had $17.3 million in Eurodollar rate loans and no base rate loans outstanding. The Eurodollar rate loans outstanding at September 30, 2007 were comprised of : (1) a $15.5 million loan based on a one-month Eurodollar rate of 5.50% plus an Applicable Rate of 2.25% and (2) $1.8 million in loans based on a one-month Eurodollar rate of 5.80% plus an Applicable Rate of 2.25%. The Applicable Rate for commitment fees was 0.50% as of September 30, 2007. Accrued interest on the Salishan Credit Facility was $42,000 as of September 30, 2007.

Derivative Instruments

The Authority is considered an “end user” of derivative instruments and engages in derivative transactions from time to time for risk management purposes only. There were no derivative instruments held by the Authority as of September 30, 2007 or 2006.

Interest rate swap agreements hedging currently outstanding debt instruments of the Authority which qualified for hedge accounting in accordance with SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,” and were designated as fair value hedges were sold in prior fiscal years for a net aggregate gain of $1.7 million. The $1.7 million net aggregate gain was deferred and added to the carrying value of the respective notes being hedged and is being amortized and recorded to interest expense over the remaining term of the respective notes. For the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005, the Authority recorded amortization of $455,000, $444,000 and $711,000 to reduce interest expense related to the sale of these derivative instruments. The Authority expects to record $456,000 to offset interest expense over the next twelve months.

Letters of Credit

As of September 30, 2007, the Authority maintained four uncollateralized letters of credit to satisfy potential workers’ compensation liabilities, overdue pari-mutuel wagering tax liabilities of the Pocono Downs entities that may arise, overdue amounts for purses due to horsemen at Pocono Downs that may arise and potential contractor and subcontractor liabilities relating to the Project Horizon expansion at Mohegan Sun. The letters of credit expire(d) on August 31, 2008, January 25, 2008, November 17, 2007 and September 5, 2008, respectively, subject to renewals. As of September 30, 2007, no amounts were drawn on the letters of credit.

 

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NOTE 10—LEASES:

The Authority leases space to certain tenants in the Shops at Mohegan Sun and certain other Mohegan Sun outlets. The Authority also leases, to third parties, the rights to utilize the Authority’s antenna on the Arena. The minimum future rental income on non-cancelable leases expected to be earned by the Authority is as follows (in thousands):

 

     Fiscal Year Ending September 30,
     2008    2009    2010    2011    2012    Thereafter    Total

Minimum Future Rental Income

   $ 3,847    $ 4,000    $ 3,962    $ 4,029    $ 1,970    $ 3,725    $ 21,533

The Authority is liable under numerous operating leases for equipment and buildings for the Pocono Downs properties, which expire in various years through 2012, subject to renewal. Total rental expense for the Pocono Downs properties was $3.2 million, $424,000 and $235,000 for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007 and 2006 and the period from date of acquisition to September 30, 2005, respectively. The minimum future rental expense on non-cancelable leases expected to be incurred by the Authority is as follows (in thousands):

 

     Fiscal Year Ending September 30,
     2008    2009    2010    2011    2012    Thereafter    Total

Minimum Future Rental Expense

   $ 304    $ 21    $ 5    $ 5    $ 4    —      $ 339

The Authority also has loaned funds to tenants related to the Shops at Mohegan Sun and certain other Mohegan Sun outlets. As of September 30, 2007 and 2006, outstanding tenant loans were $2.0 million and $2.6 million, respectively. These loans mature in periods between three and ten years. These amounts, net of allowance for doubtful accounts, have been included in other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

NOTE 11—RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS:

On August 4, 2006, the Authority purchased a 5.0% membership interest in Salishan-Mohegan from Mohegan Ventures-NW and sold such 5.0% interest to the Tribe for approximately $351,000, reflecting the carrying value of such interest. On October 17, 2006, a 2.85% membership interest in Salishan-Mohegan was transferred from Salishan Company to the Tribe, in exchange for the Tribe’s guarantee of the Salishan Credit Facility. The amount of the membership interest transferred was approximately $197,000, reflecting the carrying value of the 2.85% interest. Subsequent to this transaction, Mohegan Ventures-NW holds a 49.15% membership interest, the Tribe holds a 7.85% membership interest and Salishan Company holds a 43.0% membership interest in Salishan-Mohegan (see Note 16). Mohegan Ventures-NW and the Tribe continue to each hold one of four seats on the Board of Managers of Salishan-Mohegan.

Roland J. Harris, a member of the Authority’s Management Board, resigned from his position in the Tribal Council, and therefore the Management Board, on December 11, 2006 to accept a position as Senior Vice President of Project Management at the Authority. Mr. Harris subsequently resigned from this position in November 2007.

The Tribe provides governmental and certain administrative and miscellaneous services to the Authority in conjunction with the operation of Mohegan Sun. During the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005, the Authority incurred $23.7 million, $19.8 million and $17.9 million, respectively, of expenses for such services.

 

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The Authority leases the land on which Mohegan Sun is located from the Tribe pursuant to a long-term lease. The Authority is required to pay to the Tribe a nominal annual rental fee under the lease (see Note 13). The lease has an initial term of 25 years and is renewable for an additional 25-year term upon expiration.

The Tribe, through one of its limited liability companies, has entered into various land lease agreements with the Authority for access, parking and related purposes for Mohegan Sun. The Authority expensed $262,000 relating to these land lease agreements for each of the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005.

The Authority purchases the majority of its utilities, including electricity, gas, water and waste water services, from an instrumentality of the Tribe, the Mohegan Tribal Utility Authority. During the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005, the Authority incurred costs of $23.6 million, $19.7 million and $16.5 million, respectively, for such utilities.

The Tribe previously provided services through its Development Department for projects related to Mohegan Sun. The Development Department of the Tribe, including personnel assigned to the department, was transferred to the Authority during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007. Prior to this transfer, the Authority recorded $53,000, $2.8 million and $10.6 million of capital expenditures associated with the Tribe’s Development Department for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006, and 2005, respectively.

On September 25, 1995, the Tribe adopted the Mohegan Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance (the “TERO”), which sets forth hiring and contracting preference requirements for employers and entities conducting business on Tribal land or working on behalf of the Tribe. Pursuant to the TERO, an employer is required to give hiring, promotion, training, retention and other employment-related preferences to Native Americans who meet the minimum qualifications for the applicable employment position. However, this preference requirement does not apply to key employees, as such persons are defined in the TERO.

Similarly, any entity awarding a contract to be performed on Tribal land or on behalf of the Tribe must give preference, first to certified Mohegan entities and second to other certified Indian entities. This contracting preference is conditioned upon the bid by the preferred certified entity being within 5% of the lowest bid by a non-certified entity (unless the preferred certified entity’s bid exceeds $100,000 of the lowest bid by a non-certified entity). The TERO establishes procedures and requirements for certifying Mohegan entities and other Indian entities. Certification is based largely on the level of ownership and control exercised by the members of the Tribe or other Indian tribes, as the case may be, over the entity bidding on a contract.

As of September 30, 2007, approximately 125 employees of the Authority were members of the Tribe.

NOTE 12—EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS:

The Authority maintains a retirement savings plan for its employees under Section 401(k) and section 401(a) of the Internal Revenue Code (“the Mohegan Retirement and 401(k) Plan”). The 401(k) portion of the plan allows employees of the Authority to defer up to the lesser of the maximum amount prescribed by the Internal Revenue Code or 25% of their income on a pre-tax basis, through contributions to the 401(k) Plan. The Authority matches 100% of the eligible employees’ contributions up to a maximum of 3% of their individual earnings. Contributions to the retirement portion of the plan by the Authority are discretionary and are allocated to eligible employee accounts based on a rate of $0.30 per qualified hour worked. Employees become eligible for the Mohegan Retirement and 401(k) plan after 90 days of employment and become fully vested after six years of credited service. For the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005, the Authority has contributed $10.2 million, $9.5 million and $9.1 million, net of forfeitures, to the Mohegan Retirement and 401(k) Plan, respectively.

 

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The Authority, together with the Tribe, maintains a Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan (the “Deferred Compensation Plan”) for certain key employees. This plan allows participants to defer up to 100% of their pre-tax income to the plan. For the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005, employee contributions, net of withdrawals and changes in fair value of investments, totaled $2.9 million, $1.9 million and $2.7 million, respectively.

NOTE 13—COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES:

The Mohegan Compact

In May 1994, the Tribe and the State of Connecticut entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) which sets forth certain matters regarding implementation of the Mohegan Compact. The MOU stipulates that a portion of the revenues earned on slot machines must be paid to the State of Connecticut (“Slot Win Contribution”). The Slot Win Contribution payments will not be required if the State of Connecticut legalizes any other gaming operations with slot machines or other commercial casino table games within Connecticut, except those consented to by the Tribe and the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe. For each 12-month period commencing July 1, 1995, the Slot Win Contribution shall be the lesser of (a) 30% of gross revenues from slot machines, or (b) the greater of (i) 25% of gross revenues from slot machines or (ii) $80.0 million.

The Authority reflected expenses associated with the Slot Win Contribution totaling $230.4 million, $226.3 million and $215.2 million for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively. As of September 30, 2007 and 2006, outstanding Slot Win Contribution payments to the State of Connecticut totaled $19.3 million and $19.5 million, respectively.

Category One Slot Machine License

On September 27, 2006, a conditional Category One slot machine license was granted to Downs Racing by the PGCB for the operation of slot machines at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs. After the satisfaction of certain regulatory conditions and the payment of the one-time slot machine license fee of $50.0 million to the PGCB in October 2006, Downs Racing opened Phase I of its gaming and entertainment facility in November 2006. The PGCB approved a permanent Category One slot machine license for Downs Racing on December 20, 2006. This license initially permits Downs Racing to install and operate up to 3,000 slot machines at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs. Under certain circumstances, Downs Racing may be permitted to install up to a total of 5,000 slot machines at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs. A minimum of 1,500 slot machines were required to be in operation within 12 months of the issuance of the conditional slot machine license. In November 2007, the PGCB granted Downs Racing a one-year extension to reach the 1,500 slot machine threshold.

The Race Horse Development and Gaming Act of 2004 stipulates that a portion of the gross revenues earned on slot machines by holders of Category One licenses must be paid to the PGCB on a daily basis, which includes amounts to be paid to the Pennsylvania Harness Horsemen’s Association Inc. (the “PHHA”) and local share assessments to be paid to the host cities and municipalities. The current assessment of the amount payable to the PGCB on a daily basis is 55% of gross slot revenues. In addition to this daily slot machine tax assessment, Downs Racing must pay, on an annual basis, to the PGCB amounts necessary to ensure that the city and municipality hosting Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs will receive an annual minimum of $10.0 million from the local share assessment. The local share assessment is equal to the greater of 2.0% of annual gross slot revenues or $10.0 million. Downs Racing maintains a $5.0 million escrow deposit in the name of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for the payment of slot machine tax assessments to the PGCB, which is included in other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of September 30, 2007.

 

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The Authority reflected expenses associated with the PGCB slot machine tax assessments totaling $92.2 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007. As of September 30, 2007, a liability for slot machine tax payments owed to the PGCB of $6.1 million was recorded in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

PGCB Regulatory Fees

In addition to the slot machine tax payments described above, the holders of slot machine licenses are also required to reimburse the PGCB for administrative and operating expenses incurred. The assessment of this amount on Downs Racing and other slot facility operators that are currently open is deferred until all licensed entities are opened. In order to fund current operations of the PGCB, two loans in the amount of $36.0 million and $22.6 million, as well as a payment of $7.0 million from current licensees, were granted to the PGCB from gaming tax funds received by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. These loans cover expenses incurred by the PGCB from inception to June 30, 2008, and are expected to be repaid in total by the slot machine licensees once all approved gaming facilities are open. Each licensee’s share of these costs will be proportional to each licensee’s gross slot machine revenues.

Based upon an estimate of Down’s Racing’s slot machine revenues compared to current and future licensees in the Commonwealth, Downs Racing is recording expenses associated with the reimbursement of PGCB operating expenses at a rate of 1.5% of gross slot machine revenues. This rate has been approved by the PGCB, which receives corresponding payments on a weekly basis from Downs Racing. The Authority reflected expenses associated with this fee assessment totaling $2.4 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007. As of September 30, 2007, a liability for regulatory fee payments owed to the PGCB of $54,000 was recorded in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. Downs Racing has also made a prepayment to the PGCB of $800,000 for a portion of their incurred expenses, which was recorded in prepaid expenses in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of September 30, 2007.

Priority Distribution Agreement

On August 1, 2001, the Authority and the Tribe entered into an agreement (the “Priority Distribution Agreement”), which obligates the Authority to make monthly payments to the Tribe to the extent of the Authority’s net cash flow, as defined in the Priority Distribution Agreement. The Priority Distribution Agreement, which has a perpetual term, limits the maximum aggregate payments by the Authority to the Tribe in each calendar year to $14.0 million, as adjusted annually in accordance with the formula specified in the Priority Distribution Agreement to reflect the effects of inflation. However, payments pursuant to the Priority Distribution Agreement do not reduce the Authority’s obligations to make payments to reimburse the Tribe for governmental services provided by the Tribe or any payments under any other agreements with the Tribe. The monthly payments under the Priority Distribution Agreement are limited obligations of the Authority payable only to the extent of its net cash flow, as defined in the Priority Distribution Agreement, and are not secured by a lien or encumbrance on any assets or property of the Authority. The Authority’s consolidated financial statements reflect payments associated with the Priority Distribution Agreement of $16.8 million, $16.3 million and $15.8 million for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

Agreement with the Town of Montville

On June 16, 1994, the Tribe and the Town of Montville (the “Town”) entered into an agreement whereby the Tribe agreed to pay to the Town an annual payment of $500,000 to minimize the impact on the Town resulting from the decreased tax revenues on reservation land held in trust. The Tribe assigned its right and obligations in the agreement with the Town to the Authority.

 

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Land Lease from the Tribe to the Authority

The land upon which Mohegan Sun is situated is held in trust for the Tribe by the United States. The Tribe and the Authority have entered into a land lease under which the Tribe leases to the Authority the property and all buildings, improvements and related facilities constructed or installed on the property. The lease was amended in March 2007 to update the legal description of the property covered under the lease, which was approved by the Secretary of the Interior on April 9, 2007. Summarized below are several key provisions of this lease.

Term

The term of the lease is 25 years with an option, exercisable by the Authority, to extend the term for one additional 25-year period. Upon the termination of the lease, the Authority will be required to surrender to the Tribe possession of the property and improvements, excluding any equipment, furniture, trade fixtures or other personal property.

Rent and Other Operating Expenses

The Authority is required to pay to the Tribe a nominal annual rental fee. For any period when the Tribe or another agency or instrumentality of the Tribe is not the tenant under the lease, the rent will be 8% of the tenant’s gross revenues from the premises. The Authority is responsible for the payment of all costs of owning, operating, constructing, maintaining, repairing, replacing and insuring the leased property.

Use of Leased Property

The Authority may use the leased property and improvements solely for the construction and operation of Mohegan Sun, unless prior approval is obtained from the Tribe for any proposed alternative use. Similarly, no construction or alteration of any building or improvement located on the leased property by the Authority may be made unless complete and final plans and specifications have been approved by the Tribe. Following foreclosure of any mortgage on the Authority’s interest under the lease or any transfer of such interest to the holder of such mortgage in lieu of foreclosure, the leased property and improvements may be used for any lawful purpose, subject only to applicable codes and governmental regulations; provided, however, that a non-Indian holder of the leased property may in no event conduct gaming operations on the property.

Permitted Mortgages and Rights of Permitted Mortgages

The Authority may not mortgage, pledge or otherwise encumber its leasehold estate in the leased property except to a holder of a permitted mortgage. Under the lease, a “permitted mortgage” includes the leasehold mortgage securing the Authority’s obligations under the New Bank Credit Facility granted by the Authority that provides, among other things, that (1) the Tribe will have the right to notice of, and to cure, any default of the Authority, (2) the Tribe will have the right to prior notice of an intention by the holder to foreclose on the permitted mortgage and the right to purchase the mortgage in lieu of any foreclosure, and (3) the permitted mortgage is subject and subordinated to any and all access and utility easements granted by the Tribe under the lease.

As provided in the lease, each holder of a permitted mortgage has the right to notice of any default of the Authority under the lease and the opportunity to cure such default within any applicable cure period.

 

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Default Remedies

The Authority will be in default under the lease if, subject to the notice provisions, it fails to make lease payments or to comply with its covenants under the lease or if it pledges, encumbers or conveys its interest in the lease in violation of the terms of the lease. Following a default, the Tribe may, with approval from the Secretary of the Interior, terminate the lease unless a permitted mortgage remains outstanding with respect to the leased property. In that case, the Tribe may not (1) terminate the lease or the Authority’s right to possession of the leased property, (2) exercise any right of re-entry, (3) take possession of and/or relet the leased property or any portion thereof, or (4) enforce any other right or remedy which may materially and adversely affect the rights of the holder of the permitted mortgage, unless the default triggering such rights was a monetary default which such holder failed to cure after notice.

ACLS of New England, Inc.

The Authority has a 10-year laundry services agreement with ACLS of New England, Inc. (“ACLS”). The Authority has an option to renew the agreement for one additional 10-year term after its expiration in October 2012. Under the laundry services agreement, the Authority will pay an agreed upon rate for laundry services, adjusted annually for the Consumer Price Index and unusual increases in energy costs. Additionally, the Authority has made a $500,000 loan to ACLS to develop the laundry service facility. Pursuant to the terms of the loan, interest may accrue based on the exercise of the renewal options or other certain circumstances. In the event that circumstances occur where interest will be accrued, interest shall accrue commencing from the date of the advance at an annual rate of five percent.

The Authority also entered into a co-investment and escrow agreement with the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation (“MPTN”) and ACLS. Under the terms of those agreements, the Authority and MPTN may, under certain circumstances, become the joint owners of the laundry facility and be jointly and severally obligated to repay a term loan which is secured by a mortgage on the laundry facility. The term of the agreements is for ten years and, if the Authority and MPTN become obligated to repay the term loan, the maximum potential future principal payments (undiscounted) the Authority and MPTN could be required to make are approximately $3.6 million.

Pocono Downs Purchase Settlement

On August 7, 2006, the Authority and the seller of the Pocono Downs entities, a subsidiary of Penn National Gaming Inc. (“Penn National”), entered into an amendment of the Pocono Downs Purchase Agreement. Penn National joined in this amendment to confirm its continuing guaranty of the performance of its subsidiaries under the Pocono Downs Purchase Agreement, as amended. Pursuant to the amendment, the Authority will receive an aggregate refund of $30.0 million of the original purchase price for the Pocono Downs entities, payable in five annual installments of $7.0 million, $7.0 million, $6.5 million, $6.0 million and $3.5 million in November 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively. The first installment of $7.0 million was received on November 14, 2007. Pursuant to the amendment, the seller and the Authority agreed to modify certain provisions of the Pocono Downs Purchase Agreement, including: 1) the elimination of the Authority’s post-closing termination rights; 2) the elimination of the seller’s indemnification obligations for costs in excess of $2.0 million incurred with respect to remedial actions in connection with certain environmental conditions at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs; and 3) the elimination of certain other post-closing indemnification obligations of the seller, including those relating to claims asserted in connection with a specific property tax matter, described below. Pursuant to SFAS 141, “Business Combinations”, and other relevant accounting guidance, the $25.2 million present value of the payments for the $30.0 million refund, calculated utilizing the Authority’s risk-free rate of investment, was recorded as a non-current receivable in other assets in the consolidated balance sheet as of September 30, 2007 and as a non-operating gain in other income in the consolidated statement of income for the fiscal year

 

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ended September 30, 2007. The difference between the present value and the contract value of $30.0 million is being recorded as other non-operating income over the duration of the payment schedule. Accretion of discount to the gain on the Pocono Downs purchase settlement was $1.6 million and $216,000 for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively. At September 30, 2007 and 2006, the Pocono Downs purchase settlement receivable was $27.0 million and $25.4 million, respectively.

Horsemen’s Agreement

On January 25, 2005, Downs Racing entered into an agreement with the PHHA, which represents owners, trainers and drivers at the Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs harness racing facility. The agreement governs all live harness racing events and simulcasting and account wagering conducted at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs and the OTW facilities through December 31, 2010.

Among other things, the agreement provides for the payment of 4.3% of all pari-mutuel wagering held at the Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs facilities to the PHHA. This amount comprises the payment of $420,000 in certain operating costs and expenses for the PHHA, with the remainder allocated to purses owed to the horsemen for each live racing event. Downs Racing is also required to distribute to the PHHA 2.5% and 1.1% in fees earned on live races conducted at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs and simulcast to wagering locations inside and outside Pennsylvania, respectively.

Also, as previously described above, the Race Horse Development and Gaming Act of 2004 requires the holders of slot machine licenses to make payments to the PHHA of up to 12% of slot machine revenues. Pursuant to the terms of the agreement with the PHHA, a liability for amounts due to the PHHA for purses earned by the horsemen but not yet paid, and other fees, of $2.1 million and $453,000 was recorded in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as of September 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

Pennsylvania Property Tax Litigation

As the successor owner of Downs Racing, the Authority was involved in a dispute with the Wilkes-Barre Area School District, which had filed an appeal in November 2001 against Downs Racing’s predecessor company, Pocono Downs, Inc., and the Luzerne County Board of Assessment Appeals relating to certain property tax assessments. The school district challenged the certified assessment for the tax year 2002, and sought an increase to the assessed value of that property for 2002 and subsequent tax years, including additional assessments for tax year 2007. A final settlement was reached in June 2007 between the various parties in the litigation and the settlement was subsequently approved by the Luzerne County Court. Based on the settlement, the Authority’s liability for this litigation covering tax periods through June 30, 2007 was approximately $3.5 million, which was recorded as a charge to the Authority’s income from operations for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007. Downs Racing will continue to make agreed upon payments with the Wilkes-Barre Area School District for each tax year through 2015. The total amount of these payments is $18.2 million.

Other Litigation

The Authority is a defendant in certain litigation incurred in the normal course of business. In the opinion of management, based on the advice of counsel, the aggregate liability, if any, arising from such litigation will not have a material adverse effect on the Authority’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

NOTE 14—RELINQUISHMENT AGREEMENT:

In February 1998, the Authority and TCA entered into an agreement (the “Relinquishment Agreement” or the “Agreement”). Effective January 1, 2000 (the “Relinquishment Date”), the Relinquishment Agreement superseded a then existing management agreement with TCA. The Relinquishment Agreement provides, among other things, that the Authority will make certain payments to TCA out of, and determined as a percentage of, Revenues (as defined in the Relinquishment Agreement) generated by Mohegan Sun over a 15-year period commencing on the Relinquishment Date. The payments (“Senior Relinquishment Payments” and “Junior Relinquishment Payments”) have separate schedules and priority. Senior Relinquishment Payments commenced on April 25, 2000, twenty-five days following the end of the first three-month period after the Relinquishment Date and continue at the end of each three-month period thereafter until January 25, 2015. Junior Relinquishment Payments commenced on July 25, 2000, twenty-five days following the end of the first six-month period after the Relinquishment Date and continue at the end of each six-month period thereafter until January 25, 2015. Each Senior Relinquishment Payment and Junior Relinquishment Payment is an amount equal to 2.5% of the Revenues generated by Mohegan Sun over the immediately preceding three-month or six-month payment period, as the case may be. “Revenues” are defined in the Relinquishment Agreement as gross gaming revenues (other than Class II gaming revenue) and all other facility revenues (including, without limitation, hotel revenues, room service, food and beverage sales, ticket revenues, fees or receipts from convention/events center and all rental or other receipts from lessees and concessionaires but not the gross receipts of such lessees, licenses and concessionaires).

In the event of any bankruptcy, liquidation or reorganization or similar proceeding relating to the Authority, the Relinquishment Agreement provides that each of the Senior and Junior Relinquishment Payments then due and owing are subordinated in right to payment of senior secured obligations, which include the New Bank Credit Facility and capital lease obligations, and that the Junior Relinquishment Payments then due and owing are further subordinated to payment of all other senior obligations, including the Authority’s 2005 Senior Notes. The Relinquishment Agreement also provides that all relinquishment payments are subordinated in right of payment to the minimum priority distribution payments, which are monthly payments required to be made by the Authority to the Tribe, to the extent then due. The Authority, in accordance with SFAS 5, has recorded a relinquishment liability of the estimated present value of its obligations under the Relinquishment Agreement (see Note 2).

A relinquishment liability of $549.1 million was established at September 30, 1998 based on the present value of the estimated future Mohegan Sun revenues utilizing the Authority’s risk-free investment rate. At September 30, 2007, the carrying amount of the relinquishment liability was $503.3 million as compared to $548.0 million at September 30, 2006. The decrease in the relinquishment liability during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007 is due to $77.5 million in relinquishment payments, offset by a $3.0 million reassessment adjustment of the relinquishment liability and $29.8 million representing the accretion of discount to the relinquishment liability. Of the $77.4 million in relinquishment payments, $47.4 million represents payment of principal and $30.0 million represents payment of the accretion of discount to the relinquishment liability. During the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006, the Authority paid $74.6 million in relinquishment payments, consisting of $44.7 million in principal amounts and $29.9 million representing the payment of the accretion of discount to the relinquishment liability. During the fiscal year ended September 30, 2005, the Authority paid $70.6 million in relinquishment payments, consisting of $42.5 million in principal amounts and $28.1 million representing the payment of the accretion of discount to the relinquishment liability. The accretion of discount to the relinquishment liability reflects the accretion of the discount to the present value of the relinquishment liability for the impact of the time value of money. At September 30, 2007 and September 30, 2006, relinquishment payments earned but unpaid were $20.8 million and $20.4 million, respectively.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

The relinquishment liability reassessment adjustment of $3.0 million, $39.4 million and $123.6 million for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively, resulted from revised revenue projections as of the end of the current year compared to estimates of revenue projections as of the end of the prior year on the determination of the relinquishment liability.

In fiscal year 2007, based on updated projections for Project Horizon and delayed competition in the Northeast gaming market, both having the effect of increasing future Mohegan Sun revenues, the Authority concluded that projected revenues from Mohegan Sun subject to the Relinquishment Agreement over the remaining period of the Agreement, which expires on December 31, 2014, would increase by approximately $139.8 million, thereby increasing the related relinquishment liability, causing the Authority to record a non-cash relinquishment liability charge of $3.0 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2007.

In fiscal year 2006, the Authority reviewed current revenue forecasts, including estimated timing and extent of future competition, and significantly increased revenue projections for the period in which the Relinquishment Agreement applies, primarily due to the approval by the Management Board of the Authority in October 2006 of an expansion of Mohegan Sun referred to as “Project Horizon,” and management’s estimates of the impact this expansion will have on future competition assumptions. The Authority concluded that projected revenues from Mohegan Sun subject to the Relinquishment Agreement over the remaining period of the Agreement would increase by approximately $878.2 million, thereby increasing the related relinquishment liability, causing the Authority to record a non-cash relinquishment liability charge of $39.4 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2006.

In fiscal year 2005, the Authority reviewed current revenue forecasts, including estimated timing and extent of future competition, and significantly increased revenue projections for the period in which the Relinquishment Agreement applies, primarily due to material changes in the Connecticut gaming market subsequent to September 30, 2005. On May 13, 2005, the United States Interior Board of Indian Appeals overturned the federal recognition of the Historical Eastern Pequot Tribe and the Schaghticoke Tribe of Kent, Connecticut. These decisions were remanded to the United States Secretary of the Interior for reconsideration. The Authority concluded this ruling was not substantive enough to warrant a reassessment of the relinquishment liability at that time. However, on October 12, 2005, the Bureau of Indian Affairs upon reconsideration denied the federal recognition of these two Indian tribes which had expressed interest in building casinos in the close proximity of Mohegan Sun in Connecticut. As a result of this decision and other developments involving the revaluation of the impact to future Mohegan Sun revenues from potential competition in the Northeast gaming market, the Authority concluded events had occurred which are projected to increase revenues at Mohegan Sun over the remaining relinquishment period by approximately $3.2 billion and, therefore, substantially increase the related relinquishment liability, causing the Authority to account for a non-cash relinquishment liability charge of $123.6 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2005.

NOTE 15—INVESTMENT IN WNBA FRANCHISE:

On January 27, 2003, the Authority created a wholly owned subsidiary, MBC, for the purpose of owning and operating a professional basketball team in the WNBA. On January 28, 2003, the Authority and MBC entered into the Membership Agreement with WNBA, LLC. The Membership Agreement set forth the terms and conditions pursuant to which MBC acquired a membership in the WNBA and the right to own and operate a professional basketball team in the WNBA. The Authority guaranteed the obligations of MBC under the Membership Agreement. MBC is a full and unconditional guarantor of the Authority’s outstanding indebtedness under the New Bank Credit Facility and senior and senior subordinated notes. Refer to Note 19 for condensed consolidating financial information of the Authority, its guarantor subsidiaries and its non-guarantor subsidiary.

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

As part of the acquisition, management, with assistance from a third party valuation firm, estimated the fair value of the player roster to be $4.8 million, and the remaining $5.5 million of MBC’s aggregate investment was recorded as franchise value. The player roster value is being amortized over seven years, and the franchise value is being amortized over thirty years. Since the date of acquisition to September 30, 2007, write-offs of player contracts included on the original player roster totaled $2.8 million. As of September 30, 2007 and 2006, accumulated amortization on the player roster value was $1.3 million and $1.1 million, respectively. As of September 30, 2007 and 2006, accumulated amortization on the franchise value was $854,000 and $671,000, respectively. For the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005, amortization expense associated with these intangible assets totaled $531,000, $918,000 and $1.1 million, respectively, including charges totaling $58,000, $405,000 and $458,000 related to net write-offs of certain player contracts included on the original player roster, in the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively. The Authority expects to incur $465,000 in amortization expense for each of the next two years, $276,000 in the third year and $183,000 in the fourth and fifth years, respectively, related to these assets.

In connection with MBC’s purchase of a membership in the WNBA, MBC has an approximately 3.6% ownership position in WNBA, LLC, which is being accounted for under the cost method. Under the Limited Liability Company Agreement of WNBA, LLC, if at any time WNBA, LLC’s Board of Governors determines that additional funds are necessary or desirable for the WNBA, LLC’s or any league entity’s general business, the Board of Governors may require additional cash capital contributions. In that circumstance, each member of the league shall be obligated to contribute to WNBA, LLC an amount of cash equal to that member’s proportionate share of ownership. Pursuant to the WNBA Note, the principal payment due on the WNBA Note after any such contribution made by MBC will be reduced by the contribution amount. Through September 30, 2007, there were no cash capital contributions required by WNBA, LLC.

NOTE 16—MOHEGAN VENTURES-NORTHWEST, LLC:

On July 23, 2004, the Authority formed Mohegan Ventures-NW as a wholly owned subsidiary of the Authority and one of three members in Salishan-Mohegan, formed with Salishan Company, an unrelated third party, to participate in the development and management of a casino to be located in Clark County, Washington. The proposed casino (the “Cowlitz Project”) will be owned by the Cowlitz Tribe. The Mohegan Tribe is also a member of Salishan-Mohegan. Mohegan Ventures-NW holds a 49.15% membership interest, the Tribe holds a 7.85% membership interest and Salishan Company holds a 43.0% membership interest in Salishan-Mohegan. Mohegan Ventures-NW and the Mohegan Tribe each hold one of four seats on the Board of Managers of Salishan-Mohegan. Salishan-Mohegan was designated as an unrestricted subsidiary of the Authority and therefore is not required to be a guarantor of the Authority’s debt obligations.

Upon formation of Salishan-Mohegan, Salishan Company contributed land purchase options related to property in Clark County, Washington. On January 3, 2006, in accordance with the option agreements, the Authority exercised certain of these options and purchased two respective parcels for $7.5 million, including closing costs for purposes of the Cowlitz Project. On April 28, 2006, the Authority closed on the remaining option and purchased the respective parcel for $3.2 million, including closing costs and net of total purchase option payments made in prior periods of $1.6 million. The option agreements also required a cumulative payment of $2.4 million for fees related to extending the options to purchase all three parcels, which were due at the closing of the last parcel.

Pursuant to the development agreement described below, the notes receivable contributed to Salishan-Mohegan and amounts paid by Salishan-Mohegan subsequent to formation related to the development of the Cowlitz Project are reimbursable to Salishan-Mohegan by the Cowlitz Tribe, subject to appropriate approvals defined in the development agreement. Reimbursements are contingent and are to be distributed upon: (1) the

 

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

receipt of necessary financing for the development of the proposed casino; and (2) the property being taken into trust by the United States Department of the Interior. Notes receivable bear interest at the Wall Street Journal Prime Rate plus 2% or 3%, compounded annually. As of September 30, 2007 and 2006, receivables from the Cowlitz Tribe totaled $20.1 million and $13.4 million, respectively, including accrued interest, offset by a $6.0 million and $4.0 million reserve in the consolidated balance sheets, respectively.

In September 2004, Salishan-Mohegan entered into development and management agreements with the Cowlitz Tribe regarding the Cowlitz Project. Under the terms of the development agreement, Salishan-Mohegan administers and oversees the planning, designing, development, construction, and furnishing, as well as providing assistance with the financing, of the Cowlitz Project. The development agreement provides for certain development fees of 3% of total Project Costs, as defined in the development agreement, which are payable to Mohegan Ventures–NW and the Tribe pursuant to the Salishan- Mohegan operating agreement. As of April 2006, Salishan-Mohegan purchased the land to be used as the site for the planned casino, which will be transferred to the Cowlitz Tribe or the United States under certain conditions in the development agreement. The management agreement is for a period of seven years commencing with the opening of the planned casino, during which Salishan-Mohegan will manage, operate and maintain the planned casino. The management agreement provides for a management fee of 24% of Net Revenues, as defined in the management agreement, which approximates net income from the Cowlitz Project. Pursuant to the operating agreement, management fees will be allocated to the members of Salishan-Mohegan based on their respective membership percentages. Development of the Cowlitz Project is subject to certain governmental and regulatory approvals, including, but not limited to, negotiating a gaming compact with the State of Washington and the United States Department of the Interior accepting land into trust on behalf of the Cowlitz Tribe. The management agreement is subject to approval by the NIGC.

NOTE 17—DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS:

Prior to the Authority’s acquisition of the Pocono Downs entities, Penn National, the former owner of the Pocono Downs entities, entered into an agreement to sell all of the assets associated with the OTW facility located in Erie, Pennsylvania to MTR Gaming Group, Inc. and Presque Isle Downs Inc., collectively known as Presque Isle, for $7.0 million. Penn National assigned its rights to proceeds under this agreement to Downs Racing upon its acquisition by the Authority. Accordingly, Presque Isle was required to make the $7.0 million payment to Downs Racing upon the occurrence of either of the following two conditions: (1) the commencement by any of the Presque Isle entities of pari-mutuel wagering in Erie, Pennsylvania or (2) the receipt by any Presque Isle entity of revenue from slot machine operations in Erie, Pennsylvania.

In October 2006, the PGCB granted Presque Isle a conditional license to operate slot machines at Presque Isle Downs in Erie County, Pennsylvania. In February 2007, Presque Isle opened slot machine gaming operations at the Erie property. In July 2007, Presque Isle commenced pari-mutuel wagering at Presque Isle Downs and paid Downs Racing $7.0 million in return for the conveyance of the Erie OTW facility, pursuant to the terms of the agreement. The Authority has accordingly reported the results and sale of its Erie OTW facility from its Pocono Downs operating segment as income from discontinued operations and loss on sale of discontinued operations, respectively, in the accompanying consolidated statements of income, which includes total net revenues from the Erie OTW facility of $2.6 million, $3.4 million and $2.7 million for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007 and 2006 and the period from date of acquisition to September 30, 2005, respectively. As of September 30, 2006, assets held for sale totaled $7.1 million, which were comprised of the property and equipment of the Erie OTW operations, net of accumulated depreciation.

 

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MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

NOTE 18—SEGMENT REPORTING:

As of September 30, 2007, the Authority owns and operates the Mohegan Sun and Mohegan Sun Country Club properties in Connecticut and, through the Pocono Downs entities, operates a gaming and entertainment facility offering slot machines and harness racing and several OTW facilities in Pennsylvania (of which one referred to in Note 17 has been sold to a third party and is not reported in the below segment information). All of the Authority’s revenues are derived from these operations. The Authority’s executive officers review and assess the performance of the operating results and determine the proper allocation of resources to the Mohegan Sun entities in Connecticut, which also include MBC’s ownership of the Connecticut Sun WNBA franchise, and the Pocono Downs entities in Pennsylvania on a separate basis. The Authority, therefore, believes that it has two operating segments, one comprised solely of Mohegan Sun, which includes the Connecticut entities, and another, referred to as “Pocono Downs” herein, comprised of the operations of the Pocono Downs entities. The two operating segments are also separate reportable segments due to the differing nature of their operations. The following tables provide financial information on each segment (in thousands):

 

     For the Fiscal Year Ended September 30,  
     2007 (1)     2006     2005 (2)  

Net revenues:

      

Mohegan Sun

   $ 1,430,560     $ 1,392,958     $ 1,305,686  

Pocono Downs

     189,506       30,096       23,232  
                        

Total

     1,620,066       1,423,054       1,328,918  

Income (loss) from operations:

      

Mohegan Sun

     290,014       267,415       150,914  

Pocono Downs

     16,137       (7,547 )     (295 )

Corporate

     (10,586 )     (10,636 )     (11,483 )
                        

Total

     295,565       249,232       139,136  

Accretion of discount to the relinquishment liability

     (29,794 )     (30,707 )     (27,466 )

Interest income

     3,695       2,245       673  

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest

     (94,363 )     (90,928 )     (88,011 )

Write-off of debt issuance costs

     (71 )     —         —    

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

     —         —         (280 )

Other income (expense), net

     (137 )     24,508       (1,127 )
                        

Income from continuing operations before minority interests

     174,895       154,350       22,925  

Minority interests

     648       420       514  
                        

Income from continuing operations

     175,543       154,770       23,439  

Total income from discontinued operations

     21       147       228  
                        

Net income

   $ 175,564     $ 154,917     $ 23,667  
                        
     For the Fiscal Year Ended September 30,  
     2007     2006     2005 (2)  

Capital expenditures:

      

Mohegan Sun

   $ 103,742     $ 44,375     $ 45,367  

Pocono Downs

     58,449       44,448       5,148  

Corporate

     4       13,097       476  
                        

Total

   $ 162,195     $ 101,920     $ 50,991  
                        
     September 30,     September 30,        
     2007     2006        

Total assets:

      

Mohegan Sun

   $ 1,540,349     $ 1,505,258    

Pocono Downs (including goodwill of $39,459)

     444,206       333,820    

Corporate

     95,422       75,279    
                  

Total

   $ 2,079,977     $ 1,914,357    
                  

(1) Includes operating results of Phase I slot facility at Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs from opening date of November 14, 2006 to September 30, 2007.
(2) Period from date of inception (January 25, 2005) to September 30, 2005 for the Pocono Downs entities.

 

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MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

NOTE 19—SUPPLEMENTAL CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL STATEMENT INFORMATION:

As of September 30, 2007, substantially all of the Authority’s outstanding public debt, including its 2005 Senior Notes, 2002 Senior Subordinated Notes, 2003 Senior Subordinated Notes, 2004 Senior Subordinated Notes and 2005 Senior Subordinated Notes, is fully and unconditionally guaranteed by the following subsidiaries of the Authority: MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, MCV-PA, the Pocono Downs entities, Mohegan Golf, MVW, WTG and MTGA Gaming. MBC is the only subsidiary guarantor, on a full and unconditional basis, of the 2001 Senior Subordinated Notes. Separate financial statements and other disclosures concerning MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, MCV-PA, the Pocono Downs entities, Mohegan Golf, MVW, WTG and MTGA Gaming are not presented below because the Authority believes that the summarized financial information provided below and in Note 18 is adequate for investor analysis of these subsidiaries. Condensed consolidating financial statement information for the Authority, MBC, Mohegan Ventures-NW, MCV-PA, the Pocono Downs entities, Mohegan Golf, MVW, WTG, MTGA Gaming and the non-guarantor subsidiary, Salishan-Mohegan, as of September 30, 2007 and 2006 and for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005 is as follows (in thousands):

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEETS

 

    As of September 30, 2007
    Authority   Guarantor
Subsidiaries
  Non-Guarantor
Subsidiary
  Consolidating/
Eliminating
Adjustments
    Consolidated
Total
ASSETS          

Property and equipment, net

  $ 1,260,092   $ 121,163   $ 19,951   $ —       $ 1,401,206

Intercompany receivables

    220,006     10,372     —       (230,378 )     —  

Investment in subsidiaries

    214,011     2,788     —       (216,799 )     —  

Other intangible assets, net

    119,827     274,650     —       —         394,477

Other assets, net

    200,534     69,491     14,269     —         284,294
                               

Total assets

  $ 2,014,470   $ 478,464   $ 34,220   $ (447,177 )   $ 2,079,977
                               
LIABILITIES AND CAPITAL          

Total current liabilities

  $ 292,551   $ 40,119   $ 921   $ —       $ 333,591

Long-term debt, net of current portion

    1,255,259     3,600     17,250     —         1,276,109

Relinquishment liability, net of current portion

    406,858     —       —       —         406,858

Intercompany payables

    —       220,006     10,372     (230,378 )     —  

Other long-term liabilities

    735     —       —       —         735
                               

Total liabilities

    1,955,403     263,725     28,543     (230,378 )     2,017,293

Minority interests in subsidiaries

    —       1,043     —       2,890       3,933

Total capital

    59,067     213,696     5,677     (219,689 )     58,751
                               

Total liabilities and capital

  $ 2,014,470   $ 478,464   $ 34,220   $ (447,177 )   $ 2,079,977
                               

 

    As of September 30, 2006  
    Authority     Guarantor
Subsidiaries
  Non-Guarantor
Subsidiary
  Consolidating/
Eliminating
Adjustments
    Consolidated
Total
 
ASSETS          

Property and equipment, net

  $ 1,243,150     $ 76,722   $ 19,951   $ —       $ 1,339,823  

Intercompany receivables

    118,415       19,148     —       (137,563 )     —    

Investment in subsidiaries

    233,174       3,358     —       (236,532 )     —    

Other intangible assets, net

    119,826       219,823     —       —         339,649  

Other assets, net

    181,415       44,079     9,391     —         234,885  
                                   

Total assets

  $ 1,895,980     $ 363,130   $ 29,342   $ (374,095 )   $ 1,914,357  
                                   
LIABILITIES AND CAPITAL          

Total current liabilities

  $ 261,135     $ 7,858   $ 3,355   $ —       $ 272,348  

Long-term debt, net of current portion

    1,221,804       4,000     —       —         1,225,804  

Relinquishment liability, net of current portion

    451,038       —       —       —         451,038  

Intercompany payables

    —         118,415     19,148     (137,563 )     —    

Other long-term liabilities

    542       —       —       —         542  
                                   

Total liabilities

    1,934,519       130,273     22,503     (137,563 )     1,949,732  

Minority interest in subsidiary

    —         —       —       3,480       3,480  

Total capital

    (38,539 )     232,857     6,839     (240,012 )     (38,855 )
                                   

Total liabilities and capital

  $ 1,895,980     $ 363,130   $ 29,342   $ (374,095 )   $ 1,914,357  
                                   

 

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MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF INCOME

 

     For the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2007  
     Authority     Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Non-Guarantor
Subsidiary
    Consolidating/
Eliminating
Adjustments
    Consolidated
Total
 

Net revenues

   $ 1,426,401     $ 195,167     $ —       $ (1,502 )   $ 1,620,066  

Operating costs and expenses:

          

Gaming and other operations

     842,843       143,885       —         (1,502 )     985,226  

Advertising, general and administrative

     216,737       23,351       2,004       —         242,092  

Pre-opening costs and expenses

     445       3,391       —         —         3,836  

Depreciation and amortization

     81,950       11,397       —         —         93,347  

Relinquishment liability reassessment

     2,997       —         —         —         2,997  
                                        

Total operating costs and expenses

     1,144,972       182,024       2,004       (1,502 )     1,327,498  
                                        

Income (loss) from operations

     281,429       13,143       (2,004 )     —         292,568  

Accretion of discount to the relinquishment liability

     (29,794 )     —         —         —         (29,794 )

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest

     (56,843 )     (36,232 )     (2,324 )     1,036       (94,363 )

Loss on interests in subsidiaries

     (22,139 )     (570 )     —         22,709       —    

Other income (expense), net

     (86 )     1,442       3,167       (1,036 )     3,487  
                                        

Income (loss) from continuing operations before minority interests

     172,567       (22,217 )     (1,161 )     22,709       171,898  

Minority interests

     —         57       —         591       648  
                                        

Income (loss) from continuing operations

     172,567       (22,160 )     (1,161 )     23,300       172,546  

Income from discontinued operations

     —         21       —         —         21  
                                        

Net income (loss)

   $ 172,567     $ (22,139 )   $ (1,161 )   $ 23,300     $ 172,567  
                                        

 

     For the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2006  
     Authority     Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Non-Guarantor
Subsidiary
    Consolidating/
Eliminating
Adjustments
    Consolidated
Total
 

Net revenues

   $ 1,389,629     $ 34,627     $ —       $ (1,202 )   $ 1,423,054  

Operating costs and expenses:

          

Gaming and other operations

     804,522       26,269       —         (1,202 )     829,589  

Advertising, general and administrative

     199,780       10,129       1,771       —         211,680  

Pre-opening costs and expenses

     —         5,130       —         —         5,130  

Depreciation and amortization

     84,473       3,543       —         —         88,016  

Relinquishment liability reassessment

     39,407       —         —         —         39,407  
                                        

Total operating costs and expenses

     1,128,182       45,071       1,771       (1,202 )     1,173,822  
                                        

Income (loss) from operations

     261,447       (10,444 )     (1,771 )     —         249,232  

Accretion of discount to the relinquishment liability

     (30,707 )     —         —         —         (30,707 )

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest

     (64,983 )     (25,945 )     (1,203 )     1,203       (90,928 )

Loss on interests in subsidiaries

     (35,469 )     (484 )     —         35,953       —    

Other income, net

     24,629       1,257       2,070       (1,203 )     26,753  
                                        

Income (loss) from continuing operations before minority interest

     154,917       (35,616 )     (904 )     35,953       154,350  

Minority interest

     —         —         —         420       420  
                                        

Income (loss) from continuing operations

     154,917       (35,616 )     (904 )     36,373       154,770  

Income from discontinued operations

     —         147       —         —         147  
                                        

Net income (loss)

   $ 154,917     $ (35,469 )   $ (904 )   $ 36,373     $ 154,917  
                                        

 

F-38


Table of Contents

MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

    For the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2005  
    Authority     Guarantor
Subsidiaries (1)
    Non-Guarantor
Subsidiary
    Consolidating/
Eliminating
Adjustments
    Consolidated
Total
 

Net revenues

  $ 1,302,036     $ 28,129     $ —       $ (1,247 )   $ 1,328,918  

Operating costs and expenses:

         

Gaming and other operations

    760,501       20,184       —         (1,247 )     779,438  

Advertising, general and administrative

    189,416       6,942       1,553       —         197,911  

Pre-opening costs and expenses

    —         1,257       —         —         1,257  

Depreciation and amortization

    84,731       2,821       —         —         87,552  

Relinquishment liability reassessment

    123,624       —         —         —         123,624  
                                       

Total operating costs and expenses

    1,158,272       31,204       1,553       (1,247 )     1,189,782  
                                       

Income (loss) from operations

    143,764       (3,075 )     (1,553 )     —         139,136  

Accretion of discount to the relinquishment liability

    (27,466 )     —         —         —         (27,466 )

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest

    (73,203 )     (14,808 )     (218 )     218       (88,011 )

Loss on interests in subsidiaries

    (18,023 )     (607 )     —         18,630       —    

Other income (expense), net

    (1,405 )     239       650       (218 )     (734 )
                                       

Income (loss) from continuing operations before minority interest

    23,667       (18,251 )     (1,121 )     18,630       22,925  

Minority interest

    —         —         —         514       514  
                                       

Income (loss) from continuing operations

    23,667       (18,251 )     (1,121 )     19,144       23,439  

Income from discontinued operations

    —         228       —         —         228  
                                       

Net income (loss)

  $ 23,667     $ (18,023 )   $ (1,121 )   $ 19,144     $ 23,667  
                                       

(1) Period from date of inception (July 25, 2005) to September 2005 for Pocono Downs entities and MCV-PA.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

    For the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2007  
    Authority     Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Non-Guarantor
Subsidiary
    Consolidating/
Eliminating
Adjustments
    Consolidated
Total
 

Net cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities

  $ 250,274     $ 36,956     $ (1,141 )   $ —       $ 286,089  
                                       

Cash flows used in investing activities:

         

Purchases of property and equipment

    (87,990 )     (45,874 )     —         —         (133,864 )

Payment of Category One slot machine license fee

    —         (50,000 )     —         —         (50,000 )

Other cash flows provided by (used in) investing activities

    (69,169 )     4,855       (3,444 )     62,106       (5,652 )
                                       

Net cash flows used in investing activities

    (157,159 )     (91,019 )     (3,444 )     62,106       (189,516 )
                                       

Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities:

         

Prior Bank Credit Facility borrowings—revolving loan

    278,000       —         —         —         278,000  

Prior Bank Credit Facility repayments—revolving loan

    (278,000 )     —         —         —         (278,000 )

New Bank Credit Facility borrowings—revolving loan

    206,000       —         —         —         206,000  

New Bank Credit Facility repayments—revolving loan

    (173,000 )     —         —           (173,000 )

Line of credit borrowings

    524,313       —         —         —         524,313  

Line of credit repayments

    (507,722 )     —         —         —         (507,722 )

Principal portion of relinquishment liability payments

    (47,399 )     —         —         —         (47,399 )

Distributions to Tribe

    (75,000 )     —         —         —         (75,000 )

Other cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities

    (6,819 )     70,918       4,592       (62,106 )     6,585  
                                       

Net cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities

    (79,627 )     70,918       4,592       (62,106 )     (66,223 )
                                       

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

    13,488       16,855       7       —         30,350  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

    75,794       (548 )     —         —         75,246  
                                       

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

  $ 89,282     $ 16,307     $ 7     $ —       $ 105,596  
                                       

 

F-39


Table of Contents

MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

     For the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2006  
     Authority     Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Non-Guarantor
Subsidiary
    Consolidating/
Eliminating
Adjustments
    Consolidated
Total
 

Net cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities

   $ 259,832     $ (8,959 )   $ 4     $ —       $ 250,877  
                                        

Cash flows used in investing activities:

          

Purchases of property and equipment

     (43,095 )     (42,326 )     (13,082 )       (98,503 )

Other cash flows used in investing activities

     (64,846 )     (15,157 )     (3,405 )     81,130       (2,278 )
                                        

Net cash flows used in investing activities

     (107,941 )     (57,483 )     (16,487 )     81,130       (100,781 )
                                        

Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities:

          

Bank Credit Facility borrowings—revolving loan

     233,000       —         —         —         233,000  

Bank Credit Facility repayments—revolving loan

     (233,000 )     —         —         —         (233,000 )

Line of credit borrowings

     444,226       —         —         —         444,226  

Line of credit repayments

     (444,226 )     —         —         —         (444,226 )

Principal portion of relinquishment liability payments

     (44,731 )     —         —         —         (44,731 )

Distributions to Tribe

     (88,900 )     —         —         —         (88,900 )

Other cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities

     (13,970 )     64,973       16,483       (81,130 )     (13,644 )
                                        

Net cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities

     (147,601 )     64,973       16,483       (81,130 )     (147,275 )
                                        

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     4,290       (1,469 )     —         —         2,821  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

     71,504       921       —         —         72,425  
                                        

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

   $ 75,794     $ (548 )   $ —       $ —       $ 75,246  
                                        

 

     For the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2005  
     Authority     Guarantor
Subsidiaries (1)
    Non-Guarantor
Subsidiary
    Consolidating/
Eliminating
Adjustments
    Consolidated
Total
 

Net cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities

   $ 247,340     $ (264 )   $ (1 )   $ —       $ 247,075  
                                        

Cash flows used in investing activities:

          

Purchases of property and equipment

     (45,737 )     (3,482 )     —         —         (49,219 )

Acquisition of Pocono Downs, net of cash acquired of $875

     —         (280,114 )     —         —         (280,114 )

Other cash flows used in investing activities

     (291,509 )     (5,163 )     (4,892 )     295,719       (5,845 )
                                        

Net cash flows used in investing activities

     (337,246 )     (288,759 )     (4,892 )     295,719       (335,178 )
                                        

Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities:

          

Bank Credit Facility borrowings—revolving loan

     750,000       —         —         —         750,000  

Bank Credit Facility repayments—revolving loan

     (838,000 )     —         —         —         (838,000 )

Bank Credit Facility borrowings—term loan

     58,333       —         —         —         58,333  

Bank Credit Facility repayments—term loan

     (150,000 )     —         —         —         (150,000 )

Line of credit borrowings

     474,900       —         —         —         474,900  

Line of credit repayments

     (479,985 )     —         —         —         (479,985 )

Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt

     400,000       —         —         —         400,000  

Principal portion of relinquishment liability payments

     (42,540 )     —         —         —         (42,540 )

Distributions to Tribe

     (67,500 )     —         —         —         (67,500 )

Other cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities

     (4,204 )     289,556       4,893       (295,719 )     (5,474 )
                                        

Net cash flows provided by financing activities

     101,004       289,556       4,893       (295,719 )     99,734  
                                        

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

     11,098       533       —         —         11,631  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

     60,406       388       —         —         60,794  
                                        

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

   $ 71,504     $ 921     $ —       $ —       $ 72,425  
                                        

(1) Period from date of inception (January 25, 2005) to September 30, 2005 for Pocono Downs entities and MCV-PA.

 

F-40


Table of Contents

MOHEGAN TRIBAL GAMING AUTHORITY

SCHEDULE II—VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS AND RESERVES

FOR THE FISCAL YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2007, 2006 and 2005

(in thousands)

 

     Column A    Column B    Column C    Column D
     Balance at beginning
of period
   Charges to costs
and expenses
   Deductions from
reserves (1)
   Balances at end of
period

Description:

           

Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2007

           

Reserves and allowances deducted from asset accounts:

           

Reserves for uncollectible accounts

   $ 8,116    $ 3,396    $ 298    $ 11,214

Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2006

           

Reserves and allowances deducted from asset accounts:

           

Reserves for uncollectible accounts.

   $ 4,992    $ 3,557    $ 433    $ 8,116

Fiscal Year Ended September 30, 2005

           

Reserves and allowances deducted from asset accounts:

           

Reserves for uncollectible accounts

   $ 3,013    $ 2,286    $ 307    $ 4,992

Note(1): Deductions from reserves include the write-off of uncollectible accounts, net of recoveries of accounts previously written off.

 

S-1


Table of Contents

EXHIBIT INDEX

 

Exhibit No.   

Description

3.1    Constitution of the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut, as amended (filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Authority’s Registration Statement on Form S-4, filed with the SEC on November 1, 2004 (the “2004 Form S-4”), and incorporated by reference herein).
3.2    Ordinance No. 95-2 of the Tribe for Gaming on Tribal Lands, enacted on July 15, 1995 (filed as Exhibit 3.2 to the Authority’s Amendment No. 1 to the Authority’s Registration Statement on Form S-1, filed with the SEC on February 29, 1996 (the “1996 Forms S-1”), and incorporated by reference herein).
3.3    Articles of Organization of Mohegan Basketball Club LLC, dated as of January 27, 2003 (filed as Exhibit 3.3 to the Authority’s Registration Statement on Form S-4, filed with the SEC on September 23, 2003 (the “2003 Form S-4”), and incorporated by reference herein).
3.4    Operating Agreement of Mohegan Basketball Club LLC, a Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut limited liability company, dated as of January 24, 2003 (filed as Exhibit 3.4 to the 2003 Form S-4, and incorporated by reference herein).
3.5    Certificate of Organization of Mohegan Commercial Ventures PA, LLC, dated as of January 6, 2005, as amended (filed as Exhibit 3.5 to the Authority’s Registration Statement on Form S-4, filed with the SEC on June 7, 2005 (the “2005 Senior Subordinated Form S-4”), and incorporated by reference herein).
3.6    Operating Agreement of Mohegan Commercial Ventures PA, LLC, a Commonwealth of Pennsylvania limited liability company, dated as of December 15, 2004 (filed as Exhibit 3.6 to the 2005 Senior Subordinated Form S-4, and incorporated by reference herein).
3.7    Certificate of Limited Partnership of Downs Racing, L.P., dated as of January 7, 2005, as amended (filed as Exhibit 3.7 to the 2005 Senior Subordinated Form S-4, and incorporated by reference herein).
3.8    Amended and Restated Limited Partnership Agreement of Downs Racing, L.P., dated as of January 25, 2005 (filed as Exhibit 3.8 to the 2005 Senior Subordinated Form S-4, and incorporated by reference herein).
3.9    Certificate of Limited Partnership of Backside, L.P., dated as of January 7, 2005, as amended (filed as Exhibit 3.9 to the 2005 Senior Subordinated Form S-4, and incorporated by reference herein).
3.10    Amended and Restated Limited Partnership Agreement of Backside, L.P., dated as of January 25, 2005 (filed as Exhibit 3.10 to the 2005 Senior Subordinated Form S-4, and incorporated by reference herein).
3.11    Certificate of Limited Partnership of Mill Creek Land, L.P., dated as of January 7, 2005, as amended (filed as Exhibit 3.11 to the 2005 Senior Subordinated Form S-4, and incorporated by reference herein).
3.12    Amended and Restated Limited Partnership Agreement of Mill Creek Land, L.P., dated as of January 25, 2005 (filed as Exhibit 3.12 to the 2005 Senior Subordinated Form S-4, and incorporated by reference herein).
3.13    Certificate of Limited Partnership of Northeast Concessions, L.P., dated as of January 7, 2005, as amended (filed as Exhibit 3.13 to the 2005 Senior Subordinated Form S-4, and incorporated by reference herein).
3.14    Amended and Restated Limited Partnership Agreement of Northeast Concessions, L.P., dated as of January 25, 2005 (filed as Exhibit 3.14 to the 2005 Senior Subordinated Form S-4, and incorporated by reference herein).


Table of Contents
Exhibit No.   

Description

3.15    Articles of Organization of Mohegan Ventures-Northwest, LLC, dated as of July 23, 2004 (filed as Exhibit 3.15 to the Authority’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2006, filed with the SEC on August 10, 2006 (the “June 2006 10-Q”), and incorporated by reference herein).
3.16    Operating Agreement of Mohegan Ventures-Northwest, LLC, a Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut limited liability company, dated as of July 23, 2004 (filed as Exhibit 3.16 to the June 2006 10-Q and incorporated by reference herein).
3.17    Articles of Organization of Mohegan Golf, LLC, dated as of November 20, 2006 (filed as Exhibit 3.17 to the Authority’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006, filed with the SEC on December 21, 2006, and incorporated by reference herein).
3.18    Certificate of Formation of Wisconsin Tribal Gaming, LLC, dated as of February 27, 2007 (filed as Exhibit 3.18 to the Authority’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2007, filed with the SEC on May 15, 2007 (the “March 2007 10-Q”), and incorporated by reference herein).
3.19    Articles of Organization of Mohegan Ventures Wisconsin, LLC, dated as of March 1, 2007 (filed as Exhibit 3.19 to the Authority’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2007, filed with the SEC on May 15, 2007 (the “March 2007 10-Q”), and incorporated by reference herein).
3.20    Certificate of Formation of MTGA Gaming, LLC, dated as of July 27, 2007 (filed herewith).
4.1    Relinquishment Agreement, dated February 7, 1998, by and among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, The Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut and Trading Cove Associates (filed as Exhibit 10.14 to the Authority’s Form 10-K405 for the fiscal year ended September 30, 1998, filed with the SEC on December 29, 1998, and incorporated by reference herein).
4.2    Indenture, dated as of July 26, 2001, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut and State Street Bank and Trust Company, as Trustee, relating to the 8 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2011 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.9 to the Authority’s Registration Statement on Form S-4, File No. 333-69472, filed with the SEC on September 14, 2001 (the “2001 Form S-4”), and incorporated by reference herein).
4.3    Supplemental Indenture, dated as of January 27, 2003, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, the Mohegan Basketball Club LLC, the other Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and the State Street Bank and Trust Company, as Trustee, relating to the 8 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2011 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.12 to the June 2003 10-Q, and incorporated by reference herein).
4.4    Second Supplemental Indenture, dated as of July 28, 2004, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, the Mohegan Basketball Club LLC and U.S. Bank National Association (as successor to State Street Bank and Trust Company), as Trustee, relating to the 8  3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2011 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as exhibit 4.9 to the June 2004 10-Q and incorporated by reference herein).
4.5    Form of Global 8 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2011 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (contained in the Indenture filed as Exhibit 4.9 to the 2001 Form S-4, and incorporated by reference herein).
4.6    Indenture, dated as of February 20, 2002, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut and State Street Bank and Trust Company, as Trustee, relating to the 8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2012 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.12 to the Authority’s Registration Statement on Form S-4, filed with the SEC on March 27, 2002 (the “2002 Form S-4”), and incorporated by reference herein).


Table of Contents
Exhibit No.   

Description

4.7    Supplemental Indenture, dated as of January 27, 2003, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, the Mohegan Basketball Club LLC, the other Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and the State Street Bank and Trust Company, as Trustee, relating to the 8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2012 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.16 to the June 2003 10-Q, and incorporated by reference herein).
4.8    Amended and Restated Supplemental Indenture, dated as of January 25, 2005, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, Mohegan Basketball Club LLC and U.S. Bank National Association (as successor to State Street Bank and Trust Company), as Trustee, relating to the 8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2012 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as exhibit 4.14 to the Authority’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2004, filed with the SEC on February 14, 2005 (the “December 2004 10-Q”), and incorporated by reference herein).
4.9    Supplemental Indenture No. 2, dated as of January 25, 2005, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, Mohegan Basketball Club LLC and U.S. Bank National Association (as successor to State Street Bank and Trust Company), as Trustee, relating to the 8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2012 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.15 to the December 2004 10-Q, and incorporated by reference herein).
4.10    Supplemental Indenture No. 3, dated as of January 25, 2005, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, the Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture), and U.S. Bank National Association (as successor to State Street Bank and Trust Company), as Trustee, relating to the 8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2012 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.16 to the December 2004 10-Q, and incorporated by reference herein).
4.11    Supplemental Indenture No. 4, dated as of August 4, 2006, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, Mohegan Ventures-Northwest, LLC (as the Subsidiary Guarantor), the other Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and U.S. Bank National Association (as successor to State Street Bank and Trust Company), as Trustee, relating to the 8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2012 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.11 to the June 2006 10-Q and incorporated by reference herein).
4.12    Supplemental Indenture No. 5, dated as of December 18, 2006, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, Mohegan Golf, LLC (as the Subsidiary Guarantor), the other Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and U.S. Bank National Association (as successor to State Street Bank and Trust Company), as Trustee, relating to the 8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2012 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.12 to the Authority’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006, filed with the SEC on December 21, 2006, and incorporated by reference herein).
4.13    Supplemental Indenture No. 6, dated as of March 28, 2007, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, Wisconsin Tribal Gaming, LLC and Mohegan Ventures Wisconsin, LLC (each a Subsidiary Guarantor), the other Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and U.S. Bank National Association (as successor to State Street Bank and Trust Company), as Trustee, relating to the 8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2012 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.13 to the Authority’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2007, filed with the SEC on May 15, 2007 (the “March 2007 10-Q”), and incorporated by reference herein).
4.14    Supplemental Indenture No. 7, dated as of August 27, 2007, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, MTGA Gaming, LLC (as the Subsidiary Guarantor), the other Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and U.S. Bank National Association (as successor to State Street Bank and Trust Company), as Trustee, relating to the 8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2012 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed herewith).


Table of Contents
Exhibit No.   

Description

4.15    Form of Global 8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2012 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (contained in the Indenture filed as Exhibit 4.12 to the 2002 Form S-4, and incorporated by reference herein).
4.16    Indenture, dated as of July 9, 2003, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut, Mohegan Basketball Club LLC and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, relating to the 6 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2009 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.19 to the June 2003 10-Q, and incorporated by reference herein).
4.17    Supplemental Indenture No. 1, dated as of January 25, 2005, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, Mohegan Basketball Club LLC and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, relating to the 6 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2009 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.20 to the December 2004 10-Q, and incorporated by reference herein).
4.18    Supplemental Indenture No. 2, dated as of January 25, 2005, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, the Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture), and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, relating to the 6 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2009 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.21 to the December 2004 10-Q, and incorporated by reference herein).
4.19    Supplemental Indenture No. 3, dated as of August 4, 2006, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, Mohegan Ventures-Northwest, LLC (as the Subsidiary Guarantor), the other Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, relating to the 6 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2009 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.16 to the June 2006 10-Q and incorporated by reference herein).
4.20    Supplemental Indenture No. 4, dated as of December 18, 2006, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, Mohegan Golf, LLC (as the Subsidiary Guarantor), the other Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, relating to the 6 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2009 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.18 to the Authority’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006, filed with the SEC on December 21, 2006, and incorporated by reference herein).
4.21    Supplemental Indenture No. 5, dated as of March 28, 2007, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, Wisconsin Tribal Gaming, LLC and Mohegan Ventures Wisconsin, LLC (each a Subsidiary Guarantor), the other Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, relating to the 6 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2009 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.20 to the Authority’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2007, filed with the SEC on May 15, 2007 (the “March 2007 10-Q”), and incorporated by reference herein).
4.22    Supplemental Indenture No. 6, dated as of August 27, 2007, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, MTGA Gaming, LLC (as the Subsidiary Guarantor), the other Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, relating to the 6 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2009 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed herewith).
4.23    Form of Global 6 3/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2009 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.20 to the June 2003 10-Q, and incorporated by reference herein).
4.24    Indenture, dated as of August 3, 2004, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut, Mohegan Basketball Club LLC and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, relating to the 7 1/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2014 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.19 to the June 2004 10-Q, and incorporated by reference herein).


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4.25    Supplemental Indenture No. 1, dated as of January 25, 2005, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, the Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture), and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, relating to the 7 1/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2014 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.25 to the December 2004 10-Q, and incorporated by reference herein).
4.26    Supplemental Indenture No. 2, dated as of August 4, 2006, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, Mohegan Ventures-Northwest, LLC (as the Subsidiary Guarantor), the other Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, relating to the 7 1/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2014 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.20 to the June 2006 10-Q and incorporated by reference herein).
4.27    Supplemental Indenture No. 3, dated as of December 18, 2006, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, Mohegan Golf, LLC (as the Subsidiary Guarantor), the other Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, relating to the 7 1/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2014 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.23 to the Authority’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006, filed with the SEC on December 21, 2006, and incorporated by reference herein).
4.28    Supplemental Indenture No. 4, dated as of March 28, 2007, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, Wisconsin Tribal Gaming, LLC and Mohegan Ventures Wisconsin, LLC (each a Subsidiary Guarantor), the other Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, relating to the 7 1/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2014 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.26 to the Authority’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2007, filed with the SEC on May 15, 2007 (the “March 2007 10-Q”), and incorporated by reference herein).
4.29    Supplemental Indenture No. 5, dated as of August 27, 2007, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, MTGA Gaming, LLC (as the Subsidiary Guarantor), the other Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, relating to the 7 1/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2014 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed herewith).
4.30    Form of Global 7 1/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2014 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.20 to the June 2004 10-Q, and incorporated by reference herein).
4.31    Indenture, dated as of February 8, 2005, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut, the Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, relating to the 6 7/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2015 (filed as Exhibit 4.28 to the December 2004 10-Q, and incorporated by reference herein).
4.32    Supplemental Indenture No. 1, dated as of August 4, 2006, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, Mohegan Ventures-Northwest, LLC (as the Subsidiary Guarantor), the other Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, relating to the 6 7/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2015 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.23 to the June 2006 10-Q and incorporated by reference herein).
4.33    Supplemental Indenture No. 2, dated as of December 18, 2006, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, Mohegan Golf, LLC (as the Subsidiary Guarantor), the other Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, relating to the 6 7/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2015 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.27 to the Authority’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006, filed with the SEC on December 21, 2006, and incorporated by reference herein).


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  4.34    Supplemental Indenture No. 3, dated as of March 28, 2007, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, Wisconsin Tribal Gaming, LLC and Mohegan Ventures Wisconsin, LLC (each a Subsidiary Guarantor), the other Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, relating to the 6 7/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2015 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.31 to the Authority’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2007, filed with the SEC on May 15, 2007 (the “March 2007 10-Q”), and incorporated by reference herein).
  4.35    Supplemental Indenture No. 4, dated as of August 27, 2007, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, MTGA Gaming, LLC (as the Subsidiary Guarantor), the other Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, relating to the 6 7/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2015 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed herewith).
  4.36    Form of Global 6 7/8% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2015 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.29 to the December 2004 10-Q, and incorporated by reference herein).
  4.37    Indenture, dated as of February 8, 2005, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, The Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut, the Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and Wachovia Bank, National Association, as Trustee, relating to the 6 1/8% Senior Notes Due 2013 (filed as Exhibit 4.31 to the December 2004 10-Q, and incorporated by reference herein).
  4.38    Supplemental Indenture No. 1, dated as of August 4, 2006, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, Mohegan Ventures-Northwest, LLC (as the Subsidiary Guarantor), the other Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and U.S. Bank National Association (as successor to Wachovia Bank, National Association), as Trustee, relating to the 6 1/8% Senior Notes Due 2013 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.26 to the June 2006 10-Q and incorporated by reference herein).
  4.39    Supplemental Indenture No. 2, dated as of December 18, 2006, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, Mohegan Golf, LLC (as the Subsidiary Guarantor), the other Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and U.S. Bank National Association (as successor to Wachovia Bank, National Association), as Trustee, relating to the 6 1/8% Senior Notes Due 2013 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.31 to the Authority’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006, filed with the SEC on December 21, 2006, and incorporated by reference herein).
  4.40    Supplemental Indenture No. 3, dated as of March 28, 2007, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, Wisconsin Tribal Gaming, LLC and Mohegan Ventures Wisconsin, LLC (each a Subsidiary Guarantor), the other Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and U.S. Bank National Association (as successor to Wachovia Bank, National Association), as Trustee, relating to the 6 1/ 8% Senior Notes Due 2013 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.36 to the Authority’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2007, filed with the SEC on May 15, 2007 (the “March 2007 10-Q”), and incorporated by reference herein).
  4.41    Supplemental Indenture No. 4, dated as of August 27, 2007, among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, MTGA Gaming, LLC (as the Subsidiary Guarantor), the other Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture) and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, relating to 6 1/8% Senior Notes Due 2013 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed herewith).
  4.42    Form of Global 6 1/8% Senior Notes Due 2013 of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 4.32 to the December 2004 10-Q, and incorporated by reference herein).
10.1    The Mohegan Tribe— State of Connecticut Gaming Compact between the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut and the State of Connecticut (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the 1996 Form S-1 and incorporated herein by reference).


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10.2    Agreement, dated April 25, 1994, between the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut and the State of Connecticut resolving certain land claims (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the 1996 Form S-1 and incorporated herein by reference).
10.3    Memorandum of Understanding, dated April 25, 1994, between the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut and the State of Connecticut regarding implementation of the Compact and the Resolution Agreement (filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the 1996 Form S-1 and incorporated herein by reference).
10.4    Agreement, dated June 16, 1994, between the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut and the Town of Montville, Connecticut (filed as Exhibit 10.4 to the 1996 Form S-1, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.5    Land Lease, dated September 29, 1995, between the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut and the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 10.5 to the 1996 Form S-1, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.6    Amendment to the Land Lease, dated February 19, 1999, between the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut and the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 10.6 to the 1999 Form S-4, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.7    Amendment to the Land Lease, dated March 6, 2007, between the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut and the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Authority’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2007, filed with the SEC on August 13, 2007 (the “June 2007 10-Q”), and incorporated herein by reference).
10.8    Defeasance Escrow Deposit Agreement, dated as of March 3, 1999, by and among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut and First Union National Bank (filed as Exhibit 10.11 to the 1999 Form S-4, and incorporated herein by reference).
10.9    The Merrill Lynch Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan Trust Agreement, dated September 1, 1998, between the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority and Merrill Lynch Trust (filed as Exhibit 10.16 to the 1998 Form 10-K, and incorporated by reference herein). *
10.10    Priority Distribution Agreement between the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority and the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut, dated August 1, 2001 (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Authority’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2001 (the “June 2001 10-Q”), and incorporated by reference herein).
10.11    Standard Form of Agreement Between Owner and Construction Manager where the Construction Manager is NOT a Constructor, AIA Document B801/Cma, and Supplemental Conditions, dated July 9, 1999 (filed as Exhibit 10.21 to the 2002 Form 10-K, and incorporated by reference herein).
10.12    General Conditions of the Contract for Construction, Construction Manager-Advisor Edition, AIA Document A201/CMa, and Supplementary Conditions to the Agreement Between Owner and Construction Manager (filed as Exhibit 10.22 to the 2002 Form 10K, and incorporated by reference herein).
10.13    Employment Agreement, dated October 4, 2001, by and between the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority and Robert Soper (filed as Exhibit 10.23 to the 2001 10-K/A, and incorporated by reference herein). *
10.14    Membership Agreement, dated January 28, 2003, by and among WNBA, LLC, the Mohegan Basketball Club LLC, the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority and the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Form 8-K filed with the SEC on January 30, 2003, and incorporated by reference herein).


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10.15    Amended and Restated Loan Agreement, dated as of March 25, 2003, by and among The Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut, the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, the Lenders named therein and Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Form 8-K filed with the SEC on March 27, 2003, and incorporated by reference herein).
10.16    Amendment No. 1 to the Amended and Restated Loan Agreement, dated as of June 26, 2003, by and among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut and Bank of America National Trust and Savings Association (filed as Exhibit 99.1 to the Form 8-K filed with the SEC on July 1, 2003, and incorporated by reference herein).
10.17    Loan Agreement, dated June 27, 2003, between Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority and Fleet National Bank (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the June 2003 10-Q, and incorporated by reference herein).
10.18    Revolving Loan Note, dated June 27, 2003, between Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority and Fleet National Bank (filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the June 2003 10-Q, and incorporated by reference herein).
10.19    First Amendment to Loan Agreement, dated June 11, 2004, between Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority and Fleet National Bank (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the June 2004 10-Q, and incorporated by reference herein).
10.20    Second Amendment to Loan Agreement, dated June 22, 2004, between Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority and Fleet National Bank (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the June 2004 10-Q, and incorporated by reference herein).
10. 21    Amendment No. 2 to the Amended and Restated Loan Agreement, dated as of July 28, 2004, by and among the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut and Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Form 8-K filed with the SEC on July 29, 2004, and incorporated by reference herein).
10.22    Management Agreement between The Cowlitz Indian Tribe and Salishan-Mohegan, LLC, dated September 21, 2004 (filed as Exhibit 10.30 to the Authority’s Registration Statement on Form S-4, File No. 333-120119, filed with the SEC on November 1, 2004 (the “2004 Form S-4”), and incorporated by reference herein).
10.23    Development Agreement between The Cowlitz Indian Tribe and Salishan-Mohegan, LLC, dated September 21, 2004 (filed as Exhibit 10.31 to the 2004 Form S-4, and incorporated by reference herein).
10.24    Purchase Agreement by and among PNGI Pocono Corp., PNGI, LLC, and Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority as of October 14, 2004 (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Form 8-K filed with the SEC on October 18, 2004, and incorporated by reference herein).
10.25    Amendment No. 3 to Amended and Restated Loan Agreement, dated October 14, 2004, by and among the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut, the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority and Bank of America, N.A. (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Form 8-K filed with the SEC on October 18, 2004, and incorporated by reference herein).
10.26    Third Amendment to Loan Agreement, dated August 31, 2004, between Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority and Fleet National Bank (filed as Exhibit 10.34 to the 2004 Form S-4, and incorporated by reference herein).
10.27    Management Agreement by and among the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin, the Menominee Kenosha Gaming Authority and the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, dated October 21, 2004 (filed as Exhibit 10.35 to the 2004 Form S-4, and incorporated by reference herein).
10.28    Trust Agreement under The Mohegan Retirement and 401(k) Plan dated July 1, 2005 between the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut and Merrill Lynch Trust Company, FSB (filed as Exhibit 10.30 to the Authority’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2005, filed with the SEC on December 9, 2005, and incorporated by reference herein). *


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10.29    Employment Agreement, executed July 28, 2006, by and between the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority and Mitchell Grossinger Etess (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Form 8-K filed with the SEC on August 3, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference). *
10.30    Employment Agreement, executed July 28, 2006, by and between the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority and Jeffrey E. Hartmann (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Form 8-K filed with the SEC on August 3, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference). *
10.31    Employment Agreement, executed July 28, 2006, by and between the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority and Leo M. Chupaska (filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Form 8-K filed with the SEC on August 3, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference). *
10.32    Second Amendment to Purchase Agreement and Release of Claims dated as of August 7, 2006 by and among PNGI Pocono, Inc. (as successor to PNGI Pocono, Corp. and PNGI, LLC) and the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, and is joined in by Penn National Gaming, Inc. for limited purposes described in the agreement (filed as Exhibit 10.4 to the June 2006 10-Q and incorporated by reference herein).
10.33    Employment Agreement, executed December 20, 2006, by and between the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority and Anthony Patrone (filed as Exhibit 10.32 to the Authority’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006, filed with the SEC on December 21, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference).*
31.1    Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Executive Officer (filed herewith).
31.2    Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Chief Financial Officer (filed herewith).
32.1    Section 1350 Certification of Chief Executive Officer (filed herewith).
32.2    Section 1350 Certification of Chief Financial Officer (filed herewith).

* Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.

 

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