form10q07689_06302009.htm
 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

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

For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2009
 
or

o 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: 001-13650

Western Sizzlin Corporation
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
86-0723400
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

401 Albemarle Ave SE, Roanoke, Virginia
24013
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)

(540) 345-3195
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
 
 
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.     Yes x     No ¨
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).     Yes o     No o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.  (Check one):
 
Large accelerated filer ¨
Accelerated filer ¨
   
Non-accelerated filer ¨ (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).     Yes o    No x
 
As of August 11, 2009, there were 2,831,884 shares of common stock outstanding.

 
Western Sizzlin Corporation

Form 10-Q
Six Months Ended June 30, 2009
Table of Contents

   
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7-17
     
 
17-25
     
 
25
     
 
25
     
     
 
26
     
 
26
     
 
26
     
 
 
 
     
     
 
 
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
WESTERN SIZZLIN CORPORATION
 
Financial Statements (Unaudited)
 
Consolidated Balance Sheets
June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008

   
June 30,
2009
   
December 31,
2008
 
   
(unaudited)
       
Assets
           
Current assets:
           
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 1,247,670     $ 330,998  
Money market investments
    2,998,881       3,735,821  
Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $412,161 in 2009
and $339,752 in 2008
    1,016,879       1,064,389  
Current installments of notes receivable, less allowance for impaired notes of $62,926 in 2009 and 2008
    247,066       198,912  
Other receivables
    72,762       78,982  
Income taxes receivable
    81,429       98,362  
Inventories
    86,056       59,126  
Prepaid expenses
    210,281       133,785  
Deferred income taxes
    442,379       494,926  
Total current assets
    6,403,403       6,195,301  
Notes receivable, less allowance for impaired notes receivable of $6,980 in 2009 and 2008, excluding current installments
    381,031       449,990  
Property and equipment, net
    1,312,940       1,500,149  
Investment in real estate
    3,745,152       3,745,152  
Investments in marketable securities
    22,905,910       16,708,479  
Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $135,279  in 2009 and $73,762 in 2008
    1,284,721       1,346,238  
Goodwill
    4,995,262       4,995,262  
Financing costs, net of accumulated amortization of $195,306  in 2009 and $194,639 in 2008
    4,904       5,572  
Investment in unconsolidated joint venture
    273,847       304,695  
Deferred income taxes
    357,999       665,805  
Other assets
    34,853       36,180  
    $ 41,700,022     $ 35,952,823  
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
               
Current liabilities:
               
Note payable — line of credit
  $ 300,000     $  
Current installments of long-term debt
    2,492,547       373,925  
Accounts payable
    657,478       812,839  
Accrued expenses and other
    1,380,120       1,423,092  
Total current liabilities
    4,830,145       2,609,856  
                 
Long-term debt, excluding current installments
    397,324       2,833,587  
Other long-term liabilities
    1,182,780       1,208,147  
      6,410,249       6,651,590  
                 
Redeemable noncontrolling interests
    12,605,961       11,288,681  
                 
Commitments and contingencies
               
                 
Stockholders’ Equity:
               
Convertible preferred stock, series A, $10 par value (involuntary liquidation preference of $10 per share). Authorized 25,000 shares; none issued and outstanding
           
Convertible preferred stock, series B, $1 par value (involuntary liquidation preference of $1 per share). Authorized 875,000 shares; none issued and outstanding
           
Common stock, $0.01 par value.  Authorized 10,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding 2,831,884 in 2009 and 2008
    28,320       28,320  
Treasury stock, at cost, 9,099 shares in 2009 and 2008
    (90,583 )     (90,583 )
Additional paid-in capital
    22,235,872       22,235,872  
Retained earnings (accumulated deficit)
    848,470       (3,376,054 )
Accumulated other comprehensive loss — unrealized holding losses
    (338,267 )     (785,003 )
Total stockholders’ equity
    22,683,812       18,012,552  
    $ 41,700,022     $ 35,952,823  

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
 
WESTERN SIZZLIN CORPORATION

Consolidated Statements of Operations
Three Months and Six Months Ended June 30, 2009 and 2008
(Unaudited)
   
Three Months Ended
   
Six Months Ended
 
   
June 30,
   
June 30,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
Revenues:
                       
Company-operated restaurants
  $ 3,551,693     $ 3,490,292     $ 6,714,120     $ 6,616,402  
Franchise operations
    894,610       1,071,936       1,851,758       2,121,077  
                                 
Total revenues
    4,446,303       4,562,228       8,565,878       8,737,479  
                                 
Costs and expenses — restaurant and franchise operations:
                               
Company-operated restaurants — food, beverage and labor costs
    2,551,604       2,491,597       4,932,492       4,802,485  
Restaurant occupancy and other
    590,697       573,873       1,133,468       1,133,811  
Franchise operations — direct support
    199,161       309,386       484,343       613,921  
Subleased restaurant property expenses
          37,188             64,491  
Corporate expenses
    361,253       431,445       850,219       915,695  
Depreciation and amortization expense
    95,437       263,613       193,148       528,615  
Corporate litigation fees and expenses
    3,768       20,980       30,188       158,764  
Total costs and expenses — restaurant and franchise operations
    3,801,920       4,128,082       7,623,858       8,217,782  
                                 
Equity in income of joint venture
    82,989       61,335       139,153       107,327  
Income from restaurant and franchise operations
    727,372       495,481       1,081,173       627,024  
                                 
Investment advisory fee income
    83,304             185,110        
Net realized gains (losses) on sales of marketable securities
    217,894       754       535,522       (39,852 )
Net unrealized gains (losses) on marketable securities held by limited partnerships
    2,031,243       (2,280,461 )     3,448,921       (6,443,124 )
Amortization expense – investment activities
    (33,811 )           (61,517 )      
Expenses of investment activities, including interest of  $16,042 and $29,879 for the three month periods and $32,566 and $53,686 for the six month periods ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively
    (144,180 )     (468,406 )     (263,539 )     (968,673 )
Purchase obligation adjustment
    (193,346 )           7,643        
Income (loss) from investment activities
    1,961,104       (2,748,113 )     3,852,140       (7,451,649 )
                                 
Other income (expense):
                               
Interest expense
    (15,780 )     (15,748 )     (31,466 )     (54,195 )
Interest income
    37,493       11,503       71,211       32,367  
Other, net
    29,107       (410 )     29,148       192  
Total other income (expense), net
    50,820       (4,655 )     68,893       (21,636 )
                                 
Income (loss) before income tax expense (benefit)
    2,739,296       (2,257,287 )     5,002,206       (6,846,261 )
                                 
Income tax expense (benefit):
                               
Current
    11,321       18,815       23,214       14,621  
Deferred
    70,086       39,436       360,352       (103,035 )
Total income tax expense (benefit)
    81,407       58,351       383,566       (88,414 )
          Net income (loss)
    2,657,889       (2,315,638 )     4,618,640       (6,757,847 )
       (Income) losses attributable to redeemable noncontrolling
                interests
    (726,422 )     359,614       (394,116 )     950,828  
Net income (loss) attributable to Western Sizzlin Corporation
  $ 1,931,467     $ (1,956,024 )   $ 4,224,524     $ (5,807,019 )
                                 
Earnings (loss) per share (basic and diluted):
                               
Net income (loss) attributable to Western Sizzlin Corporation – basic
  $ .68     $ (.72 )   $ 1.49     $ (2.14 )
Net income (loss) attributable to Western Sizzlin Corporation - diluted
  $ .68     $ (.72 )   $ 1.49     $ (2.14 )
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
 
WESTERN SIZZLIN CORPORATION

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity
Six Months Ended June 30, 2009
(Unaudited)

   
Common stock
   
Treasury stock
   
Additional
Paid-
   
Retained
Earnings
(Accumulated
   
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
       
   
Shares
   
Dollars
   
Shares
   
Dollars
   
in Capital
   
Deficit)
   
Income (Loss)
   
Total
 
Balances, December 31, 2008
    2,831,884     $ 28,320       9,099     $ (90,583 )   $ 22,235,872     $ (3,376,054 )   $ (785,003 )   $ 18,012,552  
                                                                 
Net income attributable to Western Sizzlin Corporation
                                  4,224,524             4,224,524  
Change in unrealized holding gains (losses)
                                        446,736       446,736  
Comprehensive income
                                                            4,671,260  
Balances, June 30, 2009
    2,831,884     $ 28,320       9,099     $ (90,583 )   $ 22,235,872     $ 848,470     $ (338,267 )   $ 22,683,812  

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
 
WESTERN SIZZLIN CORPORATION

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Six Months Ended June 30, 2009 and 2008
(Unaudited)

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
June 30
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
           
             
Net income (loss)
  $ 4,224,524     $ (5,807,019 )
                 
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
               
                 
Restaurant and franchise activities:
               
Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment
    191,790       211,637  
Amortization of franchise royalty contracts and other assets
          315,148  
Amortization of finance costs
    668       1,828  
Provision for doubtful accounts
    78,000       60,580  
Equity in income of unconsolidated joint venture, net of distributions
of $170,000 in 2009 and $80,000 in 2008
    30,848       (27,326 )
Provision for deferred income taxes (benefit)
    460,615       (170,778 )
(Increase) decrease in current assets and other assets
    (88,631 )     86,435  
Increase (decrease) in current liabilities and other liabilities
    (195,902 )     217,387  
      477,388       694,911  
Investment activities:
               
Change in money market investments
    736,940        
Realized (gains) losses on sales of marketable securities, net
    (535,522 )     39,852  
Unrealized  (gains) losses on marketable securities, net
    (3,448,921 )     6,443,124  
Minority interest in net profit (loss) of limited partnership
    394,116       (950,828 )
Amortization expense of investment management customer relationships
    61,517        
Proceeds from sales of marketable securities
    4,898,428       91,979  
Purchases of marketable securities
    (6,664,680 )     (1,389,438 )
Decrease in due to broker
          (341,654 )
Change in purchase obligation
    (7,643 )      
Provision for deferred income taxes
    (100,262 )     67,743  
Decrease in current liabilities
          (97,498 )
      (4,666,027 )     3,863,280  
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
    35,885       (1,248,828 )
                 
Cash flows from investing activities:
               
Additions to property and equipment
    (4,581 )     (12,074 )
Net cash used in investing activities
    (4,581 )     (12,074 )
                 
Cash flows from financing activities:
               
Cash received from exercise of stock options
          59,057  
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt
          2,641,220  
Payments on long-term debt
    (317,641 )     (67,822 )
Proceeds from (payments on) line of credit borrowings, net
    300,000       (2,000,000 )
Capital contributions from  noncontrolling interests
in limited partnerships, net
    903,009       540,000  
                 
Net cash provided by financing activities
    885,368       1,172,455  
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
    916,672       (88,447 )
                 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the period
    330,998       727,378  
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period
  $ 1,247,670     $ 638,931  
                 
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
               
Cash payments for interest
  $ 64,393     $ 108,448  
Income taxes paid, net of refunds
  $ 6,281     $ 32,946  
Non-cash investing and financing activities:
               
Gross unrealized (gains) losses from marketable equity securities
  $ 446,736     $ (315,247 )
Issuance of common stock for marketable securities
  $     $ 800,744  
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
 
WESTERN SIZZLIN CORPORATION

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
Six Months Ended June 30, 2009 and 2008
(Unaudited)

(1)
Introduction and Basis of Presentation

Western Sizzlin Corporation is a holding company which owns a number of subsidiaries, with its primary business activities conducted through Western Sizzlin Franchise Corporation and Western Sizzlin Stores, Inc, which franchise and operate restaurants. Financial decisions are centralized at the holding company level, and management of operating businesses is decentralized at the business unit level. The Company’s prime objective centers on achieving above-average returns on capital in pursuit of maximizing the eventual net worth of its stockholders. While the Company has historically been principally engaged, and intends at this time to remain principally engaged, in franchising and operating restaurants, it has recently made selective investments in other companies. At June 30, 2009, the Company had 99 franchised, 5 Company-operated and 1 joint venture restaurants operating in 19 states.

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Western Sizzlin Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Western Sizzlin Franchise Corporation, The Western Sizzlin Stores, Inc., Western Sizzlin Stores of Little Rock, Inc., Austins of Omaha, Inc., Western Investments, Inc., Western Properties, Inc., a majority-owned limited partnership, Western Acquisitions, L.P., a solely-owned limited partnership, Western Real Estate, L.P., Western Mustang Holdings, L.L.C., a majority-owned limited liability company, Mustang Capital Management, L.L.C., a majority-owned limited partnership, Mustang Capital Advisors, L.P., and two limited partnerships, Mustang Capital Partners I, L.P. and Mustang Capital Partners II, L.P., (collectively the Company). All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of Western Sizzlin Corporation, (the “Company”) have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial reporting information and the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and notes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all material reclassifications and adjustments, consisting of normal recurring accruals, considered necessary for a fair presentation of the results of operations, financial position and cash flows for each period shown have been included. The unaudited consolidated financial statements and notes are presented as permitted by Form 10-Q and do not contain certain information included in the Company’s annual consolidated financial statements and notes. For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008.

(2)
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

In September 2006, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157 (“SFAS 157”), Fair Value Measurements. SFAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS 157 applies under other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements, the FASB having previously concluded in those accounting pronouncements that fair value is the relevant measurement attribute. Accordingly, SFAS 157 does not require any new fair value measurements. Effective January 1, 2008, the Company adopted the provisions of SFAS 157 for financial assets and liabilities. The Company applied the provisions of FSP FAS 157-2, Effective Date of FASB Statement 157, which deferred the provisions of SFAS 157 for nonfinancial assets and liabilities to the first fiscal period beginning after November 28, 2008. The nonfinancial assets for which we deferred adoption include goodwill and long-lived assets. The Company adopted SFAS 157 for nonfinancial assets and liabilities that are not measured at fair value on a recurring basis in the first quarter of 2009. As of June 30, 2009, the Company does not have any significant non-recurring measurements of nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities.
 

In December 2007, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 141(R), Business Combinations (“SFAS 141R”), and Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 160, Noncontrolling Interest in Consolidated Financial Statements, an amendment of ARB No. 51 (“SFAS 160”). These new standards significantly change the accounting for and reporting for business combinations and noncontrolling (minority) interests in consolidated financial statements. SFAS 141(R) and SFAS 160 are effective for the first fiscal period beginning on or after December 15, 2008.  Accordingly, the Company adopted SFAS 141(R) and SFAS 160 in the first quarter of 2009. SFAS 141R will impact the Company if it completes an acquisition or obtains additional minority interests after the effective date. SFAS 160 amends ARB 51 to establish accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. Among other requirements, this statement requires that the consolidated net income (loss) attributable to the parent and the noncontrolling interests be clearly identified and presented on the face of the consolidated statement of operations. The redeemable noncontrolling interests reported in the consolidated balance sheet represent limited partner ownership in investment fund subsidiaries consolidated into the Company’s financial statements. The limited partnership agreements of these funds contain certain redemption features that are not solely within control of the Company. As such, in accordance with EITF Topic No. D-98, the redeemable noncontrolling interests are classified outside of stockholders’ equity in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Certain reclassifications resulting from the adoption of SFAS 160 and EITF Topic No. D-98 have been made to the 2008 amounts to conform to the current year’s presentation.

In March 2008, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards SFAS No. 161 (“SFAS 161”), Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities—An Amendment of FASB Statement No. 133. SFAS 161 applies to all derivative instruments and related hedged items accounted for under SFAS No. 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities. It requires entities to provide greater transparency about (a) how and why an entity uses derivative instruments, (b) how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under SFAS 133 and its related interpretations, and (c) how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, results of operations, and cash flows. SFAS 161 is effective for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. This standard was adopted in the first quarter of 2009 and did not impact the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In April 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. 142-3, Determination of the Useful Life of Intangible Assets (“FSP 142-3”).  FSP 142-3 amends the factors that should be considered in developing renewal or extension assumptions used to determine the useful life of a recognized intangible asset under FASB Statement No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets and requires enhanced related disclosures.  FSP 142-3 must be applied prospectively to all intangible assets acquired subsequent to fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008.  The Company adopted FSP 142-3 in the first quarter of 2009 but the adoption did not impact the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In April 2009, the FASB issued FSP FAS 157-4, “Determining Fair Value When the Volume and Level of Activity for the Asset or Liability Have Significantly Decreased and Identifying Transactions That Are Not Orderly” (FSP FAS 157-4). FSP FAS 157-4 amends SFAS 157 and provides additional guidance for estimating fair value in accordance with SFAS 157 when the volume and level of activity for the asset or liability have significantly decreased and also includes guidance on identifying circumstances that indicate a transaction is not orderly for fair value measurements. This FSP is effective for interim and annual periods ending after June 15, 2009.  The Company adopted FSP FAS 157-4 in the second quarter of 2009 but the adoption did not impact the determination of fair value or reporting of its financial results.

In April 2009, the FASB issued FSP FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2, “Recognition and Presentation of Other-Than-Temporary Impairments.” This FSP amends SFAS 115, “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities,” SFAS 124, “Accounting for Certain Investments Held by Not-for-Profit Organizations,” and EITF Issue No. 99-20, “Recognition of Interest Income and Impairment on Purchased Beneficial Interests and Beneficial Interests That Continue to Be Held by a Transferor in Securitized Financial Assets,” to make the other-than-temporary impairments guidance more operational and to improve the presentation of other-than-temporary impairments in the financial statements. This FSP replaces the existing requirement that the entity’s management assert it has both the intent and ability to hold an impaired debt security until recovery with a requirement that management assert it does not have the intent to sell the security, and it is more likely than not it will not have to sell the security before recovery of its cost basis. This FSP provides increased disclosure about the credit and noncredit components of impaired debt securities that are not expected to be sold and also requires increased and more frequent disclosures regarding expected cash flows, credit losses, and an aging of securities with unrealized losses. Although this FSP does not result in a change in the carrying amount of debt securities, it does require that the portion of an other-than-temporary impairment not related to a credit loss for a held-to-maturity security be recognized in a new category of other comprehensive income and be amortized over the remaining life of the debt security as an increase in the carrying value of the security. This FSP is effective for interim and annual periods ending after June 15, 2009.  The Company adopted this new FSP in the second quarter of 2009. It did not have a significant impact on the determination or reporting of its financial results but did result in additional disclosures.
 

In April 2009, the FASB issued FSP FAS 107-1 and APB 28-1, Interim Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments, to require an entity to provide interim disclosure about the fair value of all financial instruments within the scope of SFAS 107 and to include disclosures related to the methods and significant assumptions used in estimating those instruments.  This FSP is effective for interim and annual periods ending after June 15, 2009.  The Company adopted this new FSP in the second quarter of 2009. (See Note 11)


In May 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No. 165, Subsequent Events. This statement requires management to evaluate subsequent events through the date the financial statements are either issued, or available to be issued. Companies are required to disclose the date through which subsequent events have been evaluated.  SFAS No. 165 is effective for interim or annual financial periods ending after June 15, 2009.  The Company adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 165 in the second quarter of 2009.  The adoption of this statement did not have a material effect on the Company’s financial statements and related disclosures.

(3)
Investments in Marketable Securities

Investment and capital allocation decisions of Western Sizzlin Corporation and Western Acquisitions, LP are made by Mr. Sardar Biglari, the Company’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, under limited authority delegated by the Board of Directors for Western Sizzlin Corporation, and the management of Western Acquisitions, LP. The delegated authority includes the authority to borrow funds in connection with making investments in marketable securities or derivative securities, subject to Board reporting requirements and various limitations. As of the date of this filing, Mr. Biglari has authority to manage surplus cash up to $10 million, and in addition, has authority to borrow a maximum of $5 million. The Company has a margin securities account with a brokerage firm. The margin account bears interest at the Federal Funds Target Rate quoted by the Wall Street Journal, plus .5%, or approximately .75% as of the date of this report, with the minimum and maximum amount of any particular loan to be determined by the brokerage firm, in its discretion, from time to time. The margin loan balances at June 30, 2009 and 2008 were $0. The collateral securing the margin loans are the Company’s holdings in marketable securities. The minimum and maximum amount of any particular margin may be established by the brokerage firm, in its discretion, regardless of the amount of collateral delivered to the brokerage firm, and the brokerage firm may change such minimum and maximum amounts from time to time.

The noncontrolling interest holder in Mustang Capital Advisors, LP and Mustang Capital Management, LLC, has authority to manage the investments in these particular Funds.

In the normal course of business, substantially all of the Company’s securities transactions, money balances and security positions are transacted with a broker. The Company is subject to credit risk to the extent any broker with whom they conduct business is unable to fulfill contractual obligations on their behalf. The Company monitors the financial conditions of such brokers and does not anticipate any losses from these counterparties.

 
·
Marketable Securities held by Western Sizzlin Corporation (the holding company)

Marketable equity securities held by Western Sizzlin Corporation (the holding company) are held for an indefinite period and thus are classified as available-for-sale. Available-for-sale securities are recorded at fair value in Investments in Marketable Securities on the consolidated balance sheet, with the change in fair value during the period excluded from earnings and recorded, net of tax, as a component of other comprehensive income (loss). Substantially all of the marketable securities held by Western Sizzlin Corporation have been in a continuous loss position for less than twelve months as of June 30, 2009.
 
 
Following is a summary of marketable equity securities held by Western Sizzlin Corporation (the holding company) as of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008:
 
   
Cost
   
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
   
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
   
Fair Value
 
June 30, 2009
                       
Itex Corporation
  $ 1,487,631     $     $ (328,774 )   $ 1,158,857  
Other
    25,096             (9,493 )     15,603  
    $ 1,512,727     $     $ (338,267 )   $ 1,174,460  
December  31, 2008
                               
Itex Corporation
  $ 1,487,631     $     $ (771,867 )   $ 715,764  
Other
    25,093             (13,136 )     11,957  
    $ 1,512,724     $     $ (785,003 )   $ 727,721  

There were no realized gains or losses from marketable equity securities held by Western Sizzlin Corporation (the holding company) for the three or six months ended June 30, 2009 or 2008.

On a quarterly basis, the Company performs an assessment to determine whether there have been any events or economic circumstances to indicate that a marketable equity security with an unrealized loss has suffered other-than-temporary impairment, pursuant to FSP FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2.    Western Sizzlin Corporation’s (the holding company) investments in Itex Corporation account for substantially all of its unrealized losses at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008.  Unrealized losses on the investments in Itex Corporation did not occur until August 2008. In management’s judgment, the future earnings potential and underlying business economics is favorable and the Company intends to hold this position for the long term.
 
 
 
·
Marketable Securities held by Western Acquisitions, LP

Western Investments, Inc., a Delaware corporation and wholly-owned subsidiary, serves as the general partner of Western Acquisitions, LP, a Delaware limited partnership that operates as a private investment fund. Through Western Investments, Inc., Mr. Biglari operates as the portfolio manager to the fund. Cash contributions from outside investors of $0 and $540,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively, were made to the limited partnership.

As of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, Western Investments, Inc. owned 85.1% of Western Acquisitions, LP.  As such, Western Acquisitions, LP has been consolidated into the accompanying financial statements with the 14.9% ownership by noncontrolling limited partners presented as redeemable noncontrolling interests on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets totaling $2,040,150 and $1,396,092 as of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively,  pursuant to EITF 04-05 – Determining Whether a General Partner, or the General Partners as a Group, Controls a Limited Partnership or Similar Entity When the Limited Partners have Certain Limited Rights.

Western Acquisitions, LP is considered, for GAAP purposes, an investment company under the AICPA Audit and Accounting Guide Investment Companies. The Company has retained the specialized accounting for Western Acquisitions, LP pursuant to EITF Issue No. 85-12, Retention of Specialized Accounting for Investment in Consolidation. As such, marketable equity securities held by Western Acquisitions, LP are recorded at fair value in Investments in Marketable Securities, with unrealized gains and losses resulting from changes in fair value reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

As of June 30, 2009, Western Acquisitions, LP owns a total of 1,553,545 shares of The Steak n Shake Company’s common stock.
 

Following is a summary of marketable equity securities held by Western Acquisitions, LP as of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008:
 
   
As of June 30, 2009
   
As of December 31, 2008
 
   
Cost
   
Fair Value
   
Cost
   
Fair Value
 
The Steak n Shake Co.
  $ 19,159,412     $ 13,577,983     $ 19,159,412     $ 9,243,593  
Other
    139,881       69,892       139,881       80,737  
                                 
Total marketable equity securities
  $ 19,299,293     $ 13,647,875     $ 19,299,293     $ 9,324,330  

Net realized gains (losses) and net change in unrealized gains (losses) from marketable equity securities held by Western Acquisitions, LP were as follows:

   
Three Months Ended
 June 30,
   
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
Realized gains.
  $     $ 754     $     $  
Realized losses
                      (39,852 )
Net realized gains (losses) on sales of marketable securities
  $     $ 754         $ (39,852 )
                                 
Net unrealized gains (losses) on marketable securities
  $ 1,827,287     $ (2,280,461 )   $ 4,323,545     $ (6,443,124 )

 
·
Marketable Securities held by Mustang Capital Advisors, LP

Western Mustang Holdings, LLC owns a 50.5% controlling interest in Mustang Capital Advisors, LP (“MCA”) and a 51% controlling interest in its general partner, Mustang Capital Management, LLC (“MCA”) as July 9, 2008.

MCM owns a 1% interest in, and serves as general partner of MCA.  MCA is a registered investment advisor and serves as the investment advisor to, and the general partner of, Mustang Capital Partners I, LP and Mustang Capital Partners II, LP (the "Funds”). The Funds are private investment funds organized for the purpose of trading and investing in securities.

As of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, MCA ownership interest in the Funds was 4.4% and 5.0%, respectively, with the remaining interests in the Funds held by various limited partners who are unrelated to the Company.  The combined equity of the unrelated limited partners in the Funds totaled 95.6% and 95.0% of the net assets of the Funds as of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively.   As a result of the significant investments in the Funds by these limited partners, as well as the 49.5% non-controlling interest in MCA and the 49% non-controlling interest in MCM (which owns 1% of MCA), the Company owned approximately 2% of the combined net assets of the Funds as of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008.  However, through its majority interest in MCA, the General Partner of the Funds, the Company controls the investments and operations of the Funds.  As such, the balance sheets of the Funds and the results of their operations are included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements pursuant to EITF 04-05 – Determining Whether a General Partner, or the General Partners as a Group, Controls a Limited Partnership or Similar Entity When the Limited Partners have Certain Limited Rights.

The assets of the Funds consist primarily of money market investments totaling $2,998,881 and $3,735,821 as of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively, (representing 100% of the amounts included in the Company's consolidated balance sheets under the line item “money market investments” as of each balance sheet date), and of marketable securities totaling $8,083,575 and $6,656,428 as of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively, (representing 35% and 40%, respectively, of the amounts included in the Company's consolidated balance sheets under the line item “investments in marketable securities” at each balance sheet date).

The combined equity of the unrelated limited partners in the Funds and the non-controlling interests in MCA and MCM totaled $10,565,811 and $9,892,589 as of June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively, and is included in redeemable noncontrolling interests in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

Western Mustang Holdings, LLC, is, for GAAP purposes, an investment company under the AICPA Audit and Accounting Guide Investment Companies. The Company has retained the specialized accounting for Mustang Capital Advisors, LP pursuant to EITF Issue No. 85-12, Retention of Specialized Accounting for Investment in Consolidation. As such, marketable equity securities held by Mustang Capital Advisors, LP are recorded at fair value in Investments in Marketable Securities, with unrealized gains and losses resulting from changes in fair value reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
 

Following is a summary of marketable equity securities held by Western Mustang Holdings, LLC as of June 30. 2009 and December 31, 2008:

   
As of June 30, 2009
   
As of December 31, 2008
 
   
Cost
   
Fair Value
   
Cost
   
Fair Value
 
Total marketable equity securities
  $ 9,017,035     $ 8,083,575     $ 6,621,658     $ 6,656,428  

Net realized gains (losses) and net change in unrealized gains (losses) for the six months ended June 30, 2009, from marketable equity securities held by Mustang Capital Advisors, LP were as follows:

   
Three Months Ended
 June 30,
   
Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
Realized gains
  $ 289,195     $     $ 646.273     $  
Realized losses
    (71,301 )           (110,751 )      
Net realized gains (losses) on sales of marketable securities
  217,894     $     $ 535,522     $  
                                 
Net unrealized gains (losses) on marketable securities
  $ 1,827,287     $     $ (874,624 )   $  

 
(4)
Stock Options

The Company has two stock option plans: the 2005 Stock Option Plan and the 2004 Non-Employee Directors’ Stock Option Plan. The 1994 Incentive and Non-qualified Stock Option Plan were terminated in 2008 with the exercise of all outstanding options under this plan during year ended December 31, 2008. Under the 2005 and 2004 Plans, employees and directors may be granted options to purchase shares of common stock at the fair market value on the date of the grant.

Options granted under the 2005 and 2004 Plans vest at the date of the grant. The fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. Assumptions utilized in the model are evaluated and revised, as necessary, to reflect market conditions and experience on the respective dates of grant. The risk-free interest rate for periods within the contractual life of the option is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of the grant. Expected volatilities are based on the historical volatility of the Company’s stock for a period equal to the expected term of the options. The expected term of the options represents the period of time that options granted are outstanding and is estimated using historical exercise and termination experience.

Prior to the adoption of SFAS No. 123R, the benefit of tax deductions in excess of recognized stock compensation expense was reported as a reduction of taxes paid within operating cash flows. SFAS No. 123R requires that such benefits be recognized as a financing cash flow. The benefits of tax deductions in excess of recognized stock compensation expense for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008 were immaterial.

There were no options granted during the three or six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008.
 

The following table summarizes stock options outstanding as of June 30, 2009, as well as activity during the six month period then ended:
   
Options
Outstanding
   
Exercise Price
Per Share
Weighted
Average
   
Contractual
Term
Weighted
Average
   
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
 
Balance, December 31, 2008
    12,500     $ 7.25       1.83     $ 64,284  
Granted
                       
Exercised
                       
Expired/Forfeited
                       
Balance, June 30, 2009
    12,500     $ 7.25       1.33     $ 62,534  

All options outstanding at June 30, 2009 are fully vested and exercisable. At June 30, 2009, there were 40,000 shares available for future grants under the plans, however, on April 25, 2007, the Company’s Board of Directors elected to suspend future grants under all plans indefinitely.

(5)
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

The Company conforms to the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142 (“SFAS 142”), Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. Under SFAS 142, goodwill and intangible assets deemed to have indefinite lives are reviewed for impairment and written down and charged to results of operations when their carrying amount exceeds their estimated fair value. The Company is required to perform impairment tests each year at the end of the calendar year, or between yearly tests in certain circumstances, for goodwill. There can be no assurance that future impairment tests will not result in a charge to earnings.

Amortizing Intangible Assets

   
As of June 30, 2009
 
As of December 31, 2008
 
   
Gross
carrying
amount
 
Weighted
average
amortization
period
 
Accumulated
amortization
 
Gross
carrying
amount
 
Weighted
average
amortization
period
 
Accumulated
amortization
 
Amortizing intangible assets:
                         
Investment in management customer relationships
 
$
1,420,000
 
10.5
 
$
135,279
 
$
1,420,000
 
10.5
 
$
73,762
 
   
$
1,420,000
 
10.5
 
$
135,279
 
$
1,420,000
 
10.5
 
$
73,762
 

In connection with the acquisition of Mustang Capital Advisors, L.P in 2008, the Company acquired certain customer related intangible assets. The value assigned to these intangible assets of $1,420,000 was determined based on the present value of the estimated cash flows to be generated by the assets.

Amortization expense for amortizing intangible assets for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 was $33,811 and $61,517, respectively. Franchise royalty contracts, originally acquired in January 2004, were fully amortized as of December 31, 2008. The estimated annual amortization expense for the remaining amortizing intangible asset is $135,240 per year through 2018.

(6)           Debt

At June 30, 2009, there was $300,000 outstanding on a $2,000,000 line of credit with a bank.  The line is payable on demand, subject to annual renewal by the bank with a renewal at August 30, 2009, carries an interest rate of prime minus 0.50% (2.75% at June 30, 2009 and at December 31, 2008) and is collateralized by accounts receivable and the assignment of all franchise royalty contracts.

In 2008, the Company’s purchase of the investment in real estate was refinanced through the issuance of a note payable to a bank of $2,641,220, secured by the land held for investment.  Interest accrues on the unpaid principal balance at prime minus 0.5%, or 2.75% as of June 30, 2009.  The Company made one payment of principal of $264,122 on January 29, 2009, and all remaining principal and accrued interest is due on January 30, 2010.  Accordingly, the outstanding balance of this debt is classified as a current liability at June 30, 2009.
 

The Company has various notes payable to a finance company with interest rates ranging from 9.82% to 10.07% due in equal monthly installments, including principal and interest, ranging from $6,591 to $13,487, with a final payment due on April 13, 2010.  The notes payable require pre-payment premiums in certain circumstances and contain certain restrictive covenants, including debt coverage ratios, periodic reporting requirements and maintenance of operations at certain Company-operated restaurants that collateralize the notes payable.  The notes payable are collateralized by accounts receivable, inventory and property and equipment.

(7)           Income Taxes

The Company adopted the provisions of FASB Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes, an Interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109 (“FIN 48”), on January 1, 2007.  As of June 30, 2009, the Company has a recorded liability of $10,826, including interest of $5,510, for such uncertain tax positions.  The recorded liability was increased by $3,274 during the three months ended June 30, 2009.

In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible.

Management considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, and tax planning strategies in making this assessment. Based upon the level of historical taxable income and projections for future taxable income over the periods which the deferred tax assets are deductible, management believes it is more likely than not the Company will realize the benefits of these deductible differences, net of a valuation allowance of $1,048,000, $2,327,000 and $2,065,000 at June 30, 2009, December 31, 2008 and June 30, 2008, respectively, related to the unrealized losses on marketable securities.

(8)
Earnings (Loss) Per Share

Basic earnings (loss) per share excludes dilution and is computed by dividing income (loss) attributable to Western Sizzlin Corporation by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period.  Diluted earnings per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock or resulted in the issuance of common stock that then shared in the earnings of the Company.

The following is a reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share computations for the periods indicated:

   
Income (Loss)
(Numerator)
 
Weighted
Average
Shares
(Denominator)
 
Earnings
(Loss)
Per Share
Amount
 
Three months ended June 30, 2009
             
Net income — basic
 
$
1,931,467
 
2,831,884
 
$
.68
 
Net income — diluted
 
$
1,931,467
 
2,835,085
 
$
.68
 
               
Three months ended June 30, 2008
             
Net loss — basic
 
$
(1,956,024
)
2,730,236
 
$
(.72
)
Net loss — diluted
 
$
(1,956,024
)
2,730,236
 
$
(.72
)



   
Income (Loss)
(Numerator)
 
Weighted
Average
Shares
(Denominator)
 
Earnings
(Loss)
Per Share
Amount
 
Six months ended June 30, 2009
             
Net income — basic
 
$
4,224,524
 
2,831,884
 
$
1.49
 
Net income — diluted
 
$
4,224,524
 
2,837,388
 
$
1.49
 
               
Six months ended June 30, 2008
             
Net loss — basic
 
$
(5,807,019
)
2,713,431
 
$
(2.14
)
Net loss — diluted
 
$
(5,807,019
)
2,713,431
 
$
(2.14
)

For the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, the Company excluded from the loss per share calculation all common stock equivalents because the effect on loss per share was anti-dilutive.
 

(9)
Reportable Segments

The Company has organized segment reporting with additional information to reflect how the Company views its business activities.  The Company-operated Restaurant segment consists of the operations of all Company-operated restaurants and derives its revenues from restaurant operations.  The Franchising segment consists primarily of franchise sales and support activities and derives its revenues from sales of franchise and development rights and collection of royalties from franchisees. The Investment Activity segment consists of investment activities and certain direct expenses associated with legal matters. The Company does not allocate certain expenses to any business segment.  These costs include expenses of the following functions: legal, accounting, stockholder relations, personnel not directly related to a segment, information systems and other headquarter activities.  These unallocated expenses are designated as unallocated corporate expenses. Certain other expenses (such as sublease property expense and claims settlement and legal fees associated with a lawsuit) are also not allocated to any reportable segment.

The following table summarizes reportable segment information:
 
 
   
Three Months
   
Six Months
 
   
Ended June 30
   
Ended June 30
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
Revenues from reportable segments:
                       
Restaurants
  $ 3,551,693     $ 3,490,292     $ 6,714,120     $ 6,616,402  
Franchising
    894,610       1,071,936       1,851,758       2,121,077  
Total revenues
  $ 4,446,303     $ 4,562,228     $ 8,565,878     $ 8,737,479  
Depreciation and amortization:
                               
Restaurants
  $ 88,315     $ 97,750     $ 177,980     $ 197,107  
Franchising
    7,122       165,863       15,168       165,863  
Total depreciation and amortization
  $ 95,437     $ 263,613     $ 193,148     $ 528,615  
                                 
Income from restaurant and franchise operations:
                               
Restaurants and equity in joint venture
  $ 404,066     $ 388,407     $ 609,333     $ 590,326  
Franchising
    688,327       596,687       1,352,247       1,175,648  
Subleased properties expenses
          (37,188 )           (64,491 )
Unallocated expenses
    (3,768 )     (20,980 )     (30,188 )     (158,764 )
Corporate
    (361,253 )     (431,445 )     (850,219 )     (915,695 )
Total income from restaurant and franchise
operations:
  $ 727,372     $ 495,481     $ 1,081,173     $ 627,024  
                                 
Income (loss) from investment activities:
                               
Investment advisory fee income
  $ 83,304     $     $ 185,110     $  
Net realized gains (losses) on sales of marketable securities
    228,566       754       546,194       (39,852 )
Net unrealized gains ( losses) on marketable securities held by limited partnership
    2,020,571       (2,280,461 )     3,438,249       (6,443,124 )
Amortization expense – investment activities
    (33,811 )           (61,517 )      
Expenses of investment activities
    (144,180 )     (468,406 )     (263,539 )     (968,673 )
Purchase obligation adjustment
    (193,346 )           7,643        
Total income (loss) from investment activities
  $ 1,961,104     $ (2,748,113 )   $ 3,852,140     $ (7,451,649 )
                                 
Interest Expense:
                               
Restaurants
  $ 15,780     $ 15,748     $ 31,466     $ 54,195  
Total interest expense
  $ 15,780     $ 15,748     $ 31,466     $ 54,195  
Interest Income:
                               
Corporate
  $ 37,493     $ 11,503     $ 71,211     $ 32,367  
Total interest income
  $ 37,493     $ 11,503     $ 71,211     $ 32,367  



   
June 30,
   
December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
Total assets:
           
Restaurants
  $ 7,247,640     $ 6,523,219  
Franchising
    1,836,895       1,920,513  
Corporate
    1,522,676       1,203,830  
Investment activities
    31,092,811       26,305,261  
Total assets
  $ 41,700,022     $ 35,952,823  

   
June 30,
   
December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
Total goodwill:
           
Restaurants
  $ 3,539,057     $ 3,539,057  
Franchising
    771,143       771,143  
Investment activities
    685,062       685,062  
Total goodwill
  $ 4,995,262     $ 4,995,262  
 
 
(10)
Fair Value Measurements

Effective January 1, 2008, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 159 (“SFAS 159”), The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.  SFAS 159 permits entities to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value. The Company did not elect the fair value reporting option for any assets and liabilities not previously recorded at fair value.

Effective January 1, 2008, the Company adopted the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157 (“SFAS 157”), Fair Value Measurements, applicable to all financial assets and liabilities and for nonfinancial assets and liabilities recognized or disclosed at fair value in the consolidated financial statements on a recurring basis (at least annually). SFAS 157 defines fair value as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. The standard also establishes a fair value hierarchy which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. SFAS 157 describes three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:

Level 1
Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
   
Level 2
Observable market-based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data.
   
Level 3
Unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by market data.

At June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, the Company’s investments in marketable securities are carried at fair value, based on quoted market prices, in the consolidated balance sheets and are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy, with the exception of $1.5 million that have been valued, in the absence of observable market prices, by Mustang Capital Advisors, LP.  The Funds investments in Level 1 securities are freely tradable and are listed on a national securities exchange or reported on the NASDAQ national market at their last sales price as of the last business day of the period.

Approximately $1.5 million of the investments held by Mustang Capital Advisors, LP have been classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy and have been valued, in the absence of observable market prices, by the management of Mustang Capital Advisors, LP.  Fair value is determined using valuation methodologies after giving consideration to a range of observable factors including last known sales price; any current bids or offers on the stock; comparisons to publicly traded stocks with appropriate discounts for liquidity; size of position; control data research; and current market conditions. Those estimated values do not necessarily represent the amounts that may be ultimately realized due to the occurrence of future circumstances that can not be reasonably determined. Because of the inherent uncertainty of valuation, those estimated values may be materially higher or lower than the values that would have been used had a ready market for the securities existed.

The Company’s investments in marketable securities are measured at fair value on a recurring basis.  There have been no changes in inputs during the period ended June 30, 2009.

 
(11)
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
 
 
The following table presents the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008. SFAS No. 107, Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments, defines the fair value of a financial instrument as the amount at which the instrument could be exchanged in a current transaction between willing parties:
 
   
June 30, 2009
   
December 31, 2008
 
   
Carrying
amount
   
Fair
value
   
Carrying
amount
   
Fair
value
 
Financial assets:
                       
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 1,247,670     $ 1,247,670     $ 330,998     $ 330,998  
Money market investments
    2,998,881       2,998,881       3,735,821       3,735,821  
Trade-accounts receivable
    1,016,879       1,016,879       1,064,389       1,064,389  
Notes receivable
    628,097       618,486       648,902       642,239  
Other receivables
    72,762       72,762       78,982       78,982  
Investments in marketable securities
    22,905,910       22,905,910       16,708,479       16,708,479  
                                 
Financial liabilities:
                               
Note payable - line of credit
    300,000       283,019              
Long-term debt
    2,889,871       2,755,472       3,207,512       3,294,575  
Accounts payable
    657,478       657,478       812,839       812,839  
Accrued expenses and other
    1,380,120       1,380,120       1,423,092       1,423,092  
Other liabilities
    1,182,780       1,182,780       1,208,147       1,208,147  
 
 
The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instruments:
 
    Cash and cash equivalents, trade accounts receivable, other receivables, notes payable-line of credit, due to broker, accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities: The carrying amounts approximate fair value because of the short maturity of those instruments.
 
    Notes receivable: The fair value is determined as the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the interest rate which approximates the rate currently offered by local lending institutions for loans of similar terms to companies with comparable credit risk.
 
    Long-term debt: The fair value of the Company’s long-term debt is estimated by discounting the future cash flows of each instrument at rates which approximate those currently offered to the Company for similar debt instruments of comparable maturities by the Company’s lenders.
 
There were no changes to the methods or significant assumptions used to estimate fair values for the period ended June 30, 2009.


(12)           Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments

The limited partners of the two investment funds managed by Mustang Capital Advisors, LP can redeem their investments annually.  The limited partners of Western Acquisitions. LP can redeem their investments after two years from contribution dates.  The earliest redemption date for a Western Acquisitions, LP limited partner is August 2009.

The Company has a severance provision contained within the Employment Agreement with its Chief Financial Officer. The agreement provides certain termination benefits in the event that employment with the Company is terminated without cause and upon a change of control. Under the terms of the agreement, in the event of termination without cause the executive will receive termination benefits equal to six months of the executive’s annual base salary in effect on the termination date and the continuation of health and welfare benefits through the termination date of the agreement. Under a change of control, the executive will receive termination benefits equal to one year of the executive’s base salary in effect on the change of control date and the continuation of health and welfare benefits through the termination date of the agreement.

The Company has a severance provision contained within the Employment Agreement with the President of one of its subsidiaries, Western Sizzlin Franchise Corporation. The agreement provides for an automatic renewal of one year unless the Company or the executive provides notice of termination as specified in the agreement. Under the terms of the agreement, in the event of termination without cause, the executive will receive termination benefits on a graduated percentage of base salary and continuation of health and welfare benefits based on length of service.

In connection with the acquisition of controlling interests in Mustang Capital Advisors, LP and Mustang Capital Management, LLC, the Company is obligated to purchase the noncontrolling interest holder’s ownership upon the occurrence of certain events.  The purchase obligation will ultimately be settled in cash and shares of the Company’s common stock.  The Company is accounting for this purchase obligation pursuant to Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 150 (As Amended) - Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of Both Liabilities and Equity. The resulting liability is reported in other long-term liabilities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.  The change in the purchase obligation liability for the second quarter of 2009 is an increase of $193,346.

Contingencies

The Company accrues for an obligation for contingencies, including estimated legal costs, when a loss is probable and the amount is reasonably estimable.  As facts concerning contingencies become known to the Company, the Company reassesses its position with respect to accrued liabilities and other expenses.  These estimates are subject to change as events evolve and as additional information becomes available during the litigation process.
 

Little Rock, Arkansas Lease

In September 2006, the Company was served with a lawsuit filed in the Circuit Court of Pulaski County, Arkansas, captioned Parks Land Company, LLP, et al. v. Western Sizzlin Corporation, et al. The plaintiffs are owners/landlords of four restaurant premises located in the Little Rock, Arkansas metropolitan area which had been leased pursuant to a single ten year lease agreement.  The Company occupied these locations for a period of time, but before the end of the lease, subleased each of these premises to various operators.  The ten year lease agreement expired on June 30, 2006.   In the lawsuit the plaintiffs sought recovery of alleged damages for certain repair and maintenance expenses on the premises, for the replacement of certain equipment, for diminution of property value, and for loss of rental income, as well as interest and costs.  The case was tried to a 12 person jury in Little Rock, starting February 12, 2008.   The jury returned a verdict for the plaintiffs on February 20, 2008, in the amount of $689,526.  On February 29, 2008, the Circuit Court of Pulaski County, Arkansas entered judgment on the jury’s verdict in the case against the Company in the amount of $689,666 plus plaintiff’s legal costs.  On appeal by the Company, on May 14, 2009, the Arkansas Supreme Court reversed and remanded the case for a new trial.  On June 25, 2009, the Arkansas Supreme Court issued a per curiam order denying Parks Land Company’s petition for a rehearing.  As previously reported, the Company has accrued $900,000 related to this loss contingency. There has been no change in the Company’s loss contingency accrual of $900,000 since December 31, 2007.

Other

The Company is involved in various other claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business.  In the opinion of the management, the ultimate disposition of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

(13)           Investment in Unconsolidated Joint Venture

The Company is a partner in a 50/50 joint venture with a franchisee for a restaurant in Harrisonburg, Virginia.  During October 2005, the joint venture entered into a loan agreement for $3.05 million and the Company guaranteed 50% of the loan obligation.  The estimated fair value of the guarantee of approximately $30,000 is recorded in other long-term liabilities and in investments in unconsolidated joint venture on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets at June 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008.  The term of the guarantee extends through July 1, 2026 and the Company would be required to perform under the guarantee should the joint venture not to be able to meet its scheduled principal and interest payments.  Pursuant to the joint venture agreement, a cash contribution of $300,000 from each 50/50 partner was also made at the closing of this financing.  The Company is accounting for the investment using the equity method and the Company’s share of the net income of the joint venture is reported in the accompanying statements of operations as equity in earnings of unconsolidated joint venture.

Financial Data

The following is selected financial information for the joint venture as of and for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively:



   
Three Months
Ended June 30,
   
Six Months
Ended June 30,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
(unaudited)
   
(unaudited)
   
(unaudited)
   
(unaudited)
 
Statement of Operations Data:
                       
Total revenues
  $ 1,354,894     $ 1,218,393     $ 2,622,966     $ 2,423,335  
Cost of food
    552,017       496,971       1,076,172       986,474  
Payroll expense
    360,131       347,202       708,949       700,542  
Gross profit
    442,746       374,220       837,845       763,319  
Marketing and operating expense
    55,291       43,283       101,366       91,051  
General and administrative
    120,200       112,424       255,426       224,092  
Depreciation and amortization
    51,320       50,549       102,530       100,919  
Interest
    49,958       53,282       100,218       107,364  
Net income
    165,977       122,667       278,305       214,653  
 
 
   
June 30, 2009
   
June 30, 2008
 
Balance Sheet Data:
           
Cash                                                         
  $ 94,095     $ 193,635  
Prepaid expenses                                                         
    17,796       16,854  
Inventory                                                         
    19,310       20,421  
Land, equipment and building improvements, net 
    3,466,480       3,657,761  
Loan costs, net                                                         
    9,658       11,183  
Total assets                                                         
    3,714,254       3,900,776  
Loan payable                                                         
    2,851,797       3,046,061  
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
    273,904       204,745  
Members’ equity                                                         
    487,694       604,644  

 
 
(14)
Impact of Recently Issued Accounting Standards

In May 2007, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. FIN 46(R)-7, Application of FASB Interpretation No. 46(R) to Investment Companies (“FSP FIN 46(R)-7”) which provides clarification on the applicability of FIN 46(R), as revised, to the accounting for investments by entities that apply the accounting guidance in the AICPA Audit and Accounting Guide, Investment Companies.  FSP FIN 46(R)-7 amends FIN 46(R), as revised, to make permanent the temporary deferral of the application of FIN 46(R), as revised, to entities within the scope of the guide under Statement of Position (“SOP”) No. 07-1, Clarification of the Scope of the Audit and Accounting Guide Investment Companies and Accounting by Parent Companies and Equity Method Investors for Investments in Investment Companies (“SOP 07-1”).  FSP FIN 46(R)-7 is effective upon adoption of SOP 07-1.  The adoption of FSP FIN 46(R)-7 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company.

SOP 07-1, issued in June 2007, addresses whether the accounting principles of the AICPA Audit and Accounting Guide Investment Companies may be applied to an entity by clarifying the definition of an investment company and whether those accounting principles may be retained by a parent company in consolidation or by an investor in the application of the equity method of accounting.  SOP 07-1, as originally issued, was to be effective for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2007 with earlier adoption encouraged.  In February 2008, the FASB issued FSP SOP 07-1-1, Effective Date of AICPA Statement of Position 07-01, to indefinitely defer the effective date of SOP 07-01.

The Company’s majority-owned subsidiaries, Western Acquisitions, LP and Mustang Capital Advisors, LP, are investment companies as currently defined in the AICPA Audit and Accounting Guide, Investment Companies.  The Company has retained the specialized accounting for Western Acquisitions, LP and Mustang Capital Advisors, LP pursuant to EITF 85-12, Retention of Specialized Accounting for Investments in Consolidation.  As such, marketable equity securities held by Western Acquisitions, LP and Mustang Capital Advisors, LP are recorded at fair value in Investments in Marketable Securities in the consolidated financial statements, with unrealized gains and losses resulting from the change in fair value reflected in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. The Company intends to monitor future developments associated with this Statement in order to assess the impact, if any, which may result.

In June 2009, the FASB issued FAS Statements No. 166, Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets, and No. 167, Amendments to FASB Interpretation No. 46(R), which significantly change the accounting for transfers of financial assets and the criteria for determining whether to consolidate a variable interest entity (“VIE”).  SFAS No. 166 eliminates the qualifying special purpose entity (“QSPE”) concept, establishes conditions for reporting a transfer of a portion of a financial asset as a sale, clarifies the financial-asset derecognition criteria, revises how interests retained by the transferor in a sale of financial assets initially are measured, and removes the guaranteed mortgage securitization recharacterization provisions.  SFAS No. 167 requires reporting entities to evaluate former QSPEs for consolidation, changes the approach to determining a VIE’s primary beneficiary from a mainly quantitative assessment to an exclusively qualitative assessment designed to identify a controlling financial interest, and increases the frequency of required reassessments to determine whether a company is the primary beneficiary of a VIE. These statements require additional year-end and interim disclosures for public and nonpublic companies that are similar to the disclosures required by FSP FAS 140-4 and FIN 46(R)-8, Disclosures by Public Entities (Enterprises) about Transfers of Financial Assets and Interests in Variable Interest Entities.  The statements are effective January 1, 2010.  The Company is currently evaluating these new statements but does not believe that they will have a significant impact on the determination or reporting of our financial results.
 

In June 2009, the FASB issued SFAS No.168, The FASB Accounting Standards Codification and the Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles—a replacement of FASB Statement No. 162.  The codification will become the source of authoritative GAAP recognized by the FASB to be applied by nongovernmental entities.  Rules and interpretive releases of the SEC under authority of federal securities laws are also sources of authoritative GAAP for SEC registrants.  On the effective date of SFAS No. 168, the codification will supersede all then-existing non-SEC accounting and reporting standards.  All other non-grandfathered non-SEC accounting literature not included in the codification will become nonauthoritative.  SFAS No. 168 is effective for financial statements issued for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009.   SFAS 168 will not have a material impact on our financial statements.


(15)
Subsequent Events

In accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 165, the Company has evaluated subsequent events through August 11, 2009, which is the date these financial statements were issued.  All subsequent events requiring recognition as of June 30, 2009, have been incorporated into the consolidated financial statements presented herein.


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

Overview

The following discussion may include forward-looking statements including anticipated financial performance, business prospects, the future opening of Company-operated and franchised restaurants, anticipated capital expenditures, and other matters.  All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements.  Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 (as amended) and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (as amended) provide safe harbors for forward-looking statements.  In order to comply with the terms of these safe harbors, the Company notes that a variety of factors, individually or in the aggregate, could cause the Company’s actual results and experience to differ materially from the anticipated results or other expectations expressed in the Company’s forward-looking statements including, without limitation, the following: the ability of the Company or its franchises to obtain suitable locations for restaurant development; consumer spending trends and habits; competition in the restaurant segment with respect to price, service, location, food quality and personnel resources; weather conditions in the Company’s operating regions; laws and government regulations; general business and economic conditions; availability of capital; success of operating initiatives and marketing and promotional efforts; and changes in accounting policies.  In addition, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update those forward-looking statements.

Western Sizzlin Corporation is a holding company owning subsidiaries engaged in a number of diverse business activities.  The Company’s primary business activities are conducted through Western Sizzlin Franchise Corporation and Western Sizzlin Stores, Inc., which franchise and operate 105 restaurants in 19 states, including five Company-owned, 99 franchise restaurants, and one joint venture restaurant.  The Company currently operates and/or franchises the following concepts:  Western Sizzlin, Western Sizzlin Wood Grill, Great American Steak & Buffet, and Quincy Steakhouses.

Financial decisions are centralized at the holding company level, and management of operating businesses is decentralized at the business unit level.  Investment and all other capital allocation decisions are made for the Company and its subsidiaries by Mr. Sardar Biglari, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

While the Company has historically been principally engaged, and intends at this time to remain principally engaged, in franchising and operating restaurants, its recent investment activities could bring it within the definition of an “investment company” and require it to register as an investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940.  The Board of Directors has adopted a policy requiring management to restrict the Company’s operations and investment activities to avoid becoming an investment company, until and unless the Board approves otherwise.  Although the Company does not presently intend to change its principal business, and the Board has not approved any such change, the Company has expanded its investment activities, and may decide in the future to register as an investment company under the Investment Company Act.  Under certain circumstances, if it is successful in investment activities, then the Company may inadvertently fall within the definition of an investment company, in which event it may be required to register as an investment company.  If the Company decides or is required to register as an investment company, then it would become subject to various provisions of the Investment Company Act and the regulations adopted under such Act, which are very extensive and could adversely affect its operations.
 

The Company seeks to invest, at the holding company and through subsidiaries, including Western Acquisitions, L.P., in stocks of businesses at prices below their intrinsic business value.  The Company’s preferred strategy is to allocate a meaningful amount of capital in each investee, resulting in concentration.  The carrying values of these investments are exposed to market price fluctuations, which may be accentuated by a concentrated equity portfolio.  A significant decline in the price of major investments may produce a large decrease in the Company’s net earnings and its stockholders’ equity (See Note 3 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements included in Item 1 of this report).

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Western Sizzlin Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Western Sizzlin Franchise Corporation, The Western Sizzlin Stores, Inc., Western Sizzlin Stores of Little Rock, Inc., Austins of Omaha, Inc., Western Investments, Inc., Western Properties, Inc., a majority-owned limited partnership, Western Acquisitions, L.P., a solely-owned limited partnership, Western Real Estate, L.P. and Western Mustang Holdings, L.L.C. (collectively the Company). All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Results of Operations

Net income attributable to Western Sizzlin Corporation for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 was $1,931,467 and $4,224,524 compared to net loss attributable to Western Sizzlin Corporation of ($1,956,024) and ($5,807,019) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008.  The significant improvement was primarily attributable to targeted reduced expenses in restaurant and franchise operations and improvements in the performance of investment activities.  Income from investment activities that impacted net income (loss) attributable to Western Sizzlin Corporation, excluding income (losses) attributable to noncontrolling interests, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 was $1,234,682 and $3,458,024 compared to net loss from investment activities of ($2,388,499) and ($6,500,821) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008.   This improvement in results of investment activities was largely due to recoveries in marketable securities over the prior period.

The following table sets forth for the periods presented the percentage relationship to total revenues of certain items included in the consolidated statements of income and certain restaurant data for the periods presented:

   
Three Months
   
Six Months
 
   
Ended June 30,
   
Ended June 30,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
Revenues:
                       
Company-operated restaurants
    79.9 %     76.5 %     78.4 %     75.7 %
Franchise operations
    20.1       23.5       21.6       24.3  
Total revenues
    100.0       100.0       100.0       100.0  
                                 
Costs and expenses — restaurant and franchise operations:
                               
Company-operated restaurants — food, beverage and labor costs
    57.4       54.6       57.6       55.0  
Restaurant occupancy and other
    13.3       12.6       13.2       13.0  
Franchise operations — direct support
    4.5       6.8       5.7       7.0  
Subleased restaurant property expenses
          .8             .7  
Corporate expenses
    8.1       9.4       9.9       10.5  
Depreciation and amortization expense
    2.1       5.8       2.3       6.1  
Corporate litigation fees and expenses
    .1       .5       .04       1.8  
Total costs and expenses — restaurant and franchise operations
    85.5       90.5       89.1       94.1  
                                 
Equity in income of joint venture
    1.9       1.3       1.6       1.2  
Income from restaurant and franchise operations
    16.4       10.8       12.5       7.1  
Investment advisory fee income
    1.9             2.2        
Net unrealized gains (losses) on marketable securities held by limited partnerships
    45.4       (50.0 )     40.1       (73.7 )
Net realized gains (losses) on sales of marketable securities
    5.1             6.4       (.5 )
Amortization expense – investment activities
    (.8 )           (.7 )      
Expense of investment activities
    (3.2 )     (10.3 )     (3.1 )     (11.1 )
Purchase obligation adjustment
    (4.3 )           .1          
Loss from investment activities
    44.1       (60.3 )     45.0       (85.3 )
Other income (expense):
                               
Interest expense
    (.4 )     (.3 )     (.4 )     (.6 )
Interest income
    .8       .3       .8       .4  
Other, net
    .7             .4        
Total other income (expense), net
    .11             .8       (.2 )
                                 
Income (loss) before income tax (benefit)
    61.6       (49.5 )     58.3       (78.4 )
Income tax expense (benefit):
                               
Current
    .3       .4       .3       .2  
Deferred
    1.6       .9       4.2       (1.2 )
Total income tax expense (benefit)
    1.8       1.3       4.5       (1.0 )
Net income (loss)
    59.8       (50.8 )     53.8       (77.3 )
(Income) losses attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interests
    (16.3 )     7.9       (4.6 )     10.9  
Net income (loss) attributable to Western Sizzlin Corporation
    43.5       (42.9 )     49.2       (66.4 )
 
 
   
Three Months
 
Six Months
 
   
Ended June 30,
 
Ended June 30,
 
   
2009
 
2008
 
2009
 
2008
 
Restaurant Data
                 
Number of Company-Operated Restaurants:
                 
Beginning of period
 
5
 
5
 
5
 
5
 
Opened
 
 
 
 
 
Closed
 
 
 
 
 
Franchised
 
 
 
 
 
End of period
 
5
 
5
 
5
 
5
 
Number of U.S. Franchised Restaurants:
                 
Beginning of period
 
100
 
115
 
104
 
116
 
Opened
 
 
 
 
 
Closed
 
(1
)
(4
)
(5
)
(5
)
End of period
 
99
 
111
 
99
 
111
 
Number of Joint Venture Restaurants:
                 
Beginning of period
 
1
 
1
 
1
 
1
 
Opened
 
 
 
 
 
Closed
 
 
 
 
 
End of period
 
1
 
1
 
1
 
1
 

Revenues

Total revenues decreased 2.5% to $4.45 million for the three months ended June 30, 2009 from $4.56 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008. Total revenues decreased 2.0% to $8.57 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009 from $8.74 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008.  The decreases in total revenues were due to the decreases in franchise revenues over the same periods, which were partially offset by increases in company operated restaurant revenues, as further described below.

Company-operated restaurant revenues increased 1.8% to $3.56 million for the three months ended June 30, 2009 as compared to $3.49 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008. Company-operated restaurant revenues increased 1.5% to $6.71 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009 as compared to $6.62 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008.

Franchise revenues decreased 16.5% to $895,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2009 as compared to $1.07 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008. Franchise revenues decreased 12.7% to $1.85 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009 as compared to $2.12 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008.  The overall decrease in franchise revenues is attributable to fewer franchised units in the system during the relevant periods in 2009 as compared to the relevant periods in 2008.  Same store sales at franchise operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, experienced overall decreases of 4.41% and 3.92%, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2008.

Costs and Expenses —restaurant and franchise operations

Costs of Company-operated restaurants, consisting primarily of food, beverage, and labor costs increased $60,000 (2.4%) to $2.55 million for the three months ended June 30, 2009 from $2.49 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008.   These costs for the three month period as a percentage of Company-operated restaurants revenue were 71.8% and 71.4% for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  Costs of Company-operated restaurants increased $130,000 (2.7%) to $4.93 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009 from $4.80 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008.   These costs for the six month period as a percentage of Company-operated restaurants revenue were 73.5% and 72.6% for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  These costs have increased due to the rising costs of commodities.

Restaurant occupancy and other, which include utilities, insurance, maintenance, rent and other such costs of the Company-operated restaurants, increased by $17,000 (2.9%) for the three months ended June 30, 2009 versus the prior year’s comparable period. These costs for the three month period increased as a percentage of Company-operated restaurant revenues from 16.4% in 2008 to 16.6% in 2009.  Restaurant occupancy and other remained relatively flat for the six months ended June 30, 2009 compared to the same period in 2008.  These costs for the six month period decreased slightly as a percentage of Company-operated restaurant revenues from 17.1% in 2008 to 16.9% in 2009.
 

Cost of franchise operations direct support expense decreased by $110,000 and $130,000 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 versus the prior years’ comparable periods.  The decreases were largely attributable to targeted expense reductions for 2009.

Subleased properties include net costs associated with subleasing former Company-operated restaurants and maintenance of vacant premises.  There were no such expenses for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 and were $37,188 and $64,491 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008.  Subleasing arrangements expired at the end of 2008.

Unallocated corporate expenses consist of certain expenses not allocated to any business segment.  These expenses include legal, accounting, stockholder relations, personnel not directly related to a segment, information systems, and other headquarter’s activities.  These expenses decreased by $70,000 and $65,000 for the three and six month periods ended June 30, 2009 versus the prior year’s comparable periods.  The decreases are a result of managing expenses at the corporate level. and targeted expense reductions for 2009.

Depreciation and amortization expense decreased $168,000 and $335,000 for the three and six months period ended June 30, 2009 versus the prior year’s comparable periods.  The variance is largely attributable to franchise royalty contracts being fully amortized as of December 31, 2008.

Corporate litigation fees decreased by $17,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2009 versus the prior year’s comparable period and decreased $129,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2009 versus the prior year’s comparable period.  These expenses relate to legal fees associated with the trial and appeal of the lawsuit involving the Company in Little Rock, Arkansas.  (See Note 12 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements included in Item 1 of this report).

Equity in income of Joint Venture

Equity in income of joint venture increased $22,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2009, versus the prior year’s comparable period  and increased $32,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2009, versus the prior year’s comparable period due to increased performance of the restaurant during the relevant periods in 2009.  (See Note 13 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements included in Item 1 of this report)

Income (Loss) from Investment Activities

Investment activities include investment advisory fee income of $83,000 and $185,000 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, and $0 for the comparable periods in 2008.  Net realized gains (losses) on sales of marketable securities were $218,000 and $536,000 for the three and six months ended June 20, 2009, respectively, and $750 and ($40,000) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008.  Net unrealized gains (losses) on marketable securities held by the limited partnerships, Western Acquisitions, L.P. and Mustang Capital Advisors, L.P., were $2.0 million and $3.5 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 and ($2.3 million) and ($6.4 million) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008.   Amortization expense associated with investment activities of $34,000 and $ $62,000 were recorded in the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, and $0 for the comparable periods in 2008.  Purchase obligation adjustments of ($193,000) and $7,643 were recorded in the three and months ended June 30, 2009, respectively and $0 for the comparable periods in 2008. Expenses associated with investment activities were $144,000 and $264,000 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, respectively, and $468,000 and $969,000 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008.  The decrease in expenses for the relevant periods in 2009 versus the prior year’s comparable period is attributable to expenses in 2008 associated with the Steak n Shake proxy contest, the ITEX tender offer, and other investment related activities.  There were no management fees charged or collected from outside investors by Western Acquisitions LP in first six months of 2009 or 2008.

Other Income (Expense)

Interest expense increased $30 and decreased $23,000 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 over the comparable period in 2008.    Interest income fluctuates according to the levels of available cash balances.

Other income increased by $30,000 both for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009 over the comparable periods in 2008.
 

Income tax expense is directly affected by the levels of pretax income and the valuation allowance established on deferred tax assets. The Company’s effective tax rate was 3.0% and 2.6% for the three months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively and 7.7% and (1.3%) for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  The provisions for deferred income taxes for the three and six month periods ended June 30, 2009 includes provision decreases for the valuation allowance of $706,000 and $1,279,000, respectively, which decreased the Company’s effective tax rate for the periods.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

As of June 30, 2009, the Company had $1.25 million of cash and cash equivalents compared to $331,000 as of December 31, 2008.

Investment of Available Capital

The Company’s cash flows from restaurant and franchise activities have exceeded its working capital, financing and capital investment needs of its restaurant and franchise operations, and management expects that the Company’s cash flows will continue to exceed its operating cash needs for the foreseeable future.  The Company regularly evaluates how best to use available capital to increase stockholder value.  The Company may pursue investments in the form of acquisitions, joint ventures and partnerships where the Company believes attractive returns can be obtained.  Further, the Company may determine under certain market conditions that available capital is best utilized to fund investments that it believes offers the Company attractive return opportunities, whether or not related to its ongoing business activities.

As previously discussed in Note 3 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements included in Item 1 of this report, the Company’s Board of Directors has delegated authority to direct investment of the Company’s surplus cash to its Chairman, Sardar Biglari, subject to Board reporting requirements and various limitations that have been or may be from time to time adopted by the Board of Directors.  These investments may include significant and highly concentrated direct investments with respect to the equity securities of public companies.  Any such investments will involve risks, and stockholders should recognize that the Company’s balance sheet may change depending on the performance of investments.  Furthermore, such investments could be subject to volatility that may affect both the recorded value of the investments as well as the Company’s periodic earnings.

Operating Activities and Cash Flows

The Company provided approximately $36,000 and used $1.2 million in operating cash flows for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively, including the purchase of marketable securities of $6.7 million and $1.4 million in the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  Proceeds from sales of marketable securities were $4.9 million and $92,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Net unrealized gains (losses) on marketable securities were $3.5 million and ($6.4 million) for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Net realized gains (losses) were $536,000 and ($40,000) for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  The Company’s primary source of operating cash flows is the operating profits generated from Company’s restaurant and franchise operations.  Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by restaurant and franchise activities were approximately $477,000 and $695,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) investment activities were approximately ($4.6 million) and $3.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

Investing Activities

During the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, the Company spent $4,600 and $12,100 on capital expenditures on Company restaurants.

Financing Activities

The Company made scheduled payments on long-term debt of $318,000 and $68,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  During the first half of 2009, proceeds of $350,000 were received from borrowings on the line of credit and $50,000 of payments were made on the line of credit.  Also during the first half of 2009, net capital contributions were received from noncontrolling interests in limited partnerships of $903,000.  During the same period in 2008, $59,000 were received from the exercise of stock options, proceeds of $2.6 million were received from the issuance of a note payable, capital contributions of $540,000 were received from minority interests in the limited partnership, and payment of $2 million was made on the line of credit.
 

Certain notes payable require pre-payment premiums in certain circumstances.  In addition, certain notes payable contain certain restrictive covenants including debt coverage ratios, periodic reporting requirements and maintenance of operations at certain Company-operated restaurants that collateralize the notes payable. At June 30, 2009, the Company was in compliance with all covenants on the notes payable.

Liquidity

The Company’s primary sources of liquidity are cash generated from operations and, if needed, borrowings under its existing line of credit. The Company continually reviews its available financing alternatives.  In addition, the Company may consider, on an opportunistic basis, strategic decisions to create value and improve operational performance.


CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

The table below sets forth a summary of contractual obligations that will impact future liquidity as of June 30, 2009:

   
Payment due by period
 
Contractual Obligations
 
2009
   
2010
   
2011
   
2012
   
2013
   
Thereafter
   
Totals
 
Long-term debt
  $ 2,792,547     $ 62,214     $ 134,189     $ 148,342     $ 52,579           $ 2,889,871  
Operating leases
    331,734       639,880       367,611       399,171       405,086       766,908       2,910,390  
Interest expense (1)
    66,483       40,459       27,655       13,501       1,101               149,199  
Tax obligations (2)
    10,826                                     10,826  
Other long-term liabilities (3)
                                  308,397       308,397  
Totals
  $ 3,201,590     $ 742,553     $ 529,455     $ 561,014     $ 458,766     $ 1,075,305     $ 6,568,683  

(1)
Reflects future interest payments through scheduled maturity dates based upon average borrowing rates, outstanding debt balances and scheduled principal payments on long-term debt.  Interest on the Company’s variable rate debt is based on the interest rate in effect at June 30, 2009.

(2)
Reflects recognized liabilities for uncertain tax positions under the provision FIN 48.  (See Note 7 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements included in Item 1 of this report)

(3)
Reflects the cash portion of the Company’s purchase obligation to purchase the ownership percentage of the minority interest holder of Mustang Capital Advisors, LP.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES

The discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations is based on the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes that have been prepared in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles.  The preparation of these consolidated financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Application of the critical accounting policies discussed below requires significant judgments by management, often as a result of the need to make estimates of matters that are inherently uncertain.  If actual results were to differ materially from the estimates made, the reported results could be materially affected.  The Company is not currently aware of any reasonably likely events or circumstance that would result in materially different results. The Company’s senior management has reviewed the critical accounting policies and estimates and the Management’s Discussion and Analysis regarding them with the Audit and Finance Committee of the Board of Directors.
 

The following are areas requiring significant judgments and estimates due to uncertainties as of the reporting date: trade accounts and notes receivables and the allowance for doubtful accounts, investments, determination of useful lives and the evaluation of any impairment of long-lived assets (including franchise royalty contracts, investment management contracts and limited partnership agreements, goodwill and property and equipment), commitments and contingencies, and income taxes.

Trade Accounts and Notes Receivable and the Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

The Company collects royalties, and in some cases rent, from franchisees.  The Company views trade accounts and notes receivable and the related allowance for doubtful accounts as a critical accounting estimate since the allowance for doubtful accounts is based on judgments and estimates concerning the likelihood that individual franchisees will pay the amounts included as receivables from them.  In determining the amount of allowance for doubtful accounts to be recorded for individual franchisees, the Company considers the age of the receivable, the financial stability of the franchisee, discussions that may have occurred with the franchisee and a judgment as to the overall collectability of the receivable from the franchisee.  In addition, the Company establishes an allowance for all other receivables for which no specific allowances are deemed necessary.  If average sales or the financial health of franchisees were to deteriorate, the Company might have to increase the allowance for doubtful accounts.

Investments

Marketable equity securities held by Western Sizzlin Corporation are held for an indefinite period and thus are classified as available-for-sale. Available-for-sale securities are recorded at fair value in Investments in Marketable Securities on the consolidated balance sheet, with the change in fair value during the period excluded from earnings and recorded net of tax as a component of other comprehensive income (loss).  Fair value is determined through the use of quoted market values on national exchanges.  On a quarterly basis, the Company performs an assessment to determine whether there have been any events or economic circumstances to indicate that a marketable equity security with an unrealized loss has suffered other-than-temporary impairment, pursuant to FSP FAS 115-2 and FAS 124-2.

Western Acquisitions, LP and Mustang Capital Advisors, LP are, for GAAP purposes, investment companies under the AICPA Audit and Accounting Guide Investment Companies.  The Company has retained the specialized accounting for Western Acquisitions, LP and Mustang Capital Advisors, LP pursuant to EITF Issue No. 85-12, Retention of Specialized Accounting for Investments in Consolidation.  As such, marketable equity securities held by Western Acquisitions, LP and Mustang Capital Advisors, LP are recorded at fair value in Investments in Marketable Securities, with unrealized gains and losses resulting from the change in fair value reflected in the Statement of Operations.  Fair value is primarily determined through the use of quoted market values on national exchanges.

Long-lived Assets, Franchise Royalty Contracts and Goodwill

The Company views the determination of the carrying value of long-lived assets, franchise royalty contracts, goodwill, investment management contracts and limited partnership agreements as critical accounting estimates since it must evaluate the estimated economic useful life in order to properly depreciate or amortize the long-lived assets, franchise royalty contracts, and investment management contracts and limited partnership agreements and because it must consider if the value of any of the long-lived assets have been impaired, requiring adjustments to the carrying value.  Goodwill is not subject to amortization but is subject to at least an annual impairment test to determine if the carrying amount exceeds its fair value.

Economic useful life is the duration of time the asset is expected to be productively employed, which may be less than its physical life.  The estimated economic useful lives of long-lived assets are monitored to determine if they continue to be appropriate in light of changes in business circumstances.

The Company must also consider whether long-lived assets (including property and equipment and intangible assets) have been impaired to the extent that we must recognize a loss on such impairment, including goodwill impairment. The Company evaluates its long-lived assets for impairment at the restaurant, franchise and investment company levels on an annual basis or whenever changes or events indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. The Company assesses impairment of each level of assets based on the operating cash flows of the restaurant, franchise and investment operations and our plans for each restaurant unit, franchisee contract, or investments. Generally, all units with negative cash flows from operations for the most recent twelve months at each quarter end are included in the Company’s assessment. In performing our assessment, the Company must make assumptions regarding estimated future cash flows, including estimated proceeds from similar asset sales, and other factors to determine both the recoverability and the estimated fair value of the respective assets. If the long-lived assets of a restaurant are not recoverable based upon estimated future, undiscounted cash flows, the Company writes the assets down to their fair value. If these estimates or their related assumptions change in the future, the Company may be required to record additional impairment charges.
 

The Company evaluates goodwill for impairment on an annual basis during the fourth quarter of each year, or more frequently if an event occurs that triggers an interim impairment test.  The Company determines the fair values of our reporting units using the discounted cash flow method.  This method uses projections of cash flows from each of the reporting units.  Several of the key assumptions in estimating future cash flows include periods of operations, projections of operating profits, and weighted average cost of capital.  These assumptions are derived from the Company’s internal budgets and consideration of available market data.  The factors which contribute the greatest variability in our estimates of fair values are the weighted average cost of capital and estimates of future operating profits.

Purchase Obligation

In connection with our acquisition of a controlling interest in Mustang Capital Advisors, LP and Mustang Capital Management, LLC, the Company is obligated to purchase the minority interest holders ownership percentage upon the occurrence of certain events.  The purchase obligation will ultimately be settled in cash and shares of the Company’s common stock.  The Company is accounting for this purchase obligation pursuant to Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 150 (As Amended) - Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of Both Liabilities and Equity. The resulting liability is reported in other long-term liabilities on the accompanying financial statements.

Commitments and Contingencies

The Company views accounting for contingencies as a critical accounting estimate since loss contingencies arising from claims, assessments, litigation, fines and penalties and other sources require judgment as to any probable liabilities incurred.  Actual results could differ from the expected results determined based on such estimates.

Income Taxes

The Company records valuation allowances against deferred tax assets, when necessary, in accordance with SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes.” Realization of deferred tax assets is dependent on future taxable earnings and is therefore uncertain. The Company assesses the likelihood that deferred tax assets in each of the jurisdictions in which it operates will be recovered from future taxable income. Deferred tax assets do not include future tax benefits that the Company deems likely not to be realized.

In July 2006, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation Number 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes, an Interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109, (“FIN 48”).  FIN 48 prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attributes for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken in a tax return.  The Company must determine whether it is “more-likely-than-not” that a tax position will be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position.  Once it is determined that a position meets the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, the position is measured to determine the amount of benefit to recognize in the financial statements.  FIN 48 applies to all tax positions related to income taxes subject to FASB Statement No. 109.

OTHER

Impact of Inflation

The impact of inflation on the costs of food and beverage products, labor and real estate can affect the Company’s operations.  Management believes the Company has historically been able to pass on increased costs through certain selected menu price increases and has offset increased costs by increased productivity and purchasing efficiencies, but there can be no assurance that the Company will be able to do so in the future.  Management anticipates that the average cost of restaurant real estate leases and construction cost could increase in the future which could affect the Company’s ability to expand.  In addition, mandated health care or additional increases in the federal or state minimum wages could significantly increase the Company’s costs of doing business.
 

Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk

As of June 30, 2009, the Company’s financial instruments are not exposed to significant market risk due to foreign currency exchange risk.  However, the Company is exposed to market risk related to changes in market prices of marketable securities, interest rates related to certain debt obligations, and commodity risks.

Market Price Risk

The Company’s marketable securities are currently concentrated in a few investments. A change in market prices exposes the Company to market risk related to the investments in marketable securities.  As of June 30, 2009, the Company held $23 million in available-for-sale marketable securities. A hypothetical 10% decline in the market value of those securities would result in $2.3 million of unrealized losses and a corresponding decline in their fair values at June 30, 2009.  This hypothetical decline would not affect the Company’s cash flows unless the securities were disposed of.

Interest Rate Risk

The Company has exposure to interest rate risk related to certain instruments entered into for other than trading purposes. Specifically, borrowings under the loan associated with the Texas land purchase and revolving credit facility bear interest at variable rates based on the prime rate minus .5%.  The nature and amount of borrowings under the credit facility may vary as a result of future business requirements, market conditions and other factors.

Commodity Price Risk

The Company purchases certain food products such as beef, poultry, pork, eggs and coffee, and utilities such as gas and electricity, which are affected by commodity pricing and are, therefore, subject to price volatility caused by weather, production problems, delivery difficulties and other factors that are outside of the Company’s control and which are generally unpredictable. Changes in commodity prices affect the Company and competitors generally and often simultaneously. In general, the Company purchases food products and utilities based upon market prices established with vendors. Although many of the items purchased are subject to changes in commodity prices, the majority of our purchasing arrangements are structured to contain features that minimize price volatility by establishing fixed pricing and/or price ceilings and floors. The Company uses these types of purchase arrangements to control costs as an alternative to using financial instruments to hedge commodity prices. The Company has determined that our purchasing agreements do not qualify as derivative financial instruments or contain embedded derivative instruments. In many cases, the Company believes it will be able to address commodity cost increases which are significant and appear to be long-term in nature by adjusting our menu pricing or changing our product delivery strategy. However, competitive circumstances could limit such actions and, in those circumstances, increases in commodity prices could lower its margins. Because of the often short-term nature of commodity pricing aberrations and our ability to change menu pricing or product delivery strategies in response to commodity price increases, the Company believes that the impact of commodity price risk is not significant.

The Company has established a policy to identify, control and manage market risks which may arise from changes in interest rates, commodity prices and other relevant rates and prices.

Item 4.  Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Based on an evaluation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(c) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended),  the Company’s  Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that its disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of June 30, 2009.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There have been no changes in its internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the current quarter ended June 30, 2009 that have materially affected, or that are reasonably likely to materially affect, the internal control over financial reporting.
 

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.    Legal Proceedings

In addition to those proceedings discussed in Note 12 to the Company’s consolidated financial statements included in Item 1 of this report, the Company is involved in various other claims and legal actions which are routine litigation matters incidental to the business.  In the opinion of the management, the ultimate disposition of these other matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

An investment in the common stock of any company involves a degree of risk.  Investors should consider carefully the risks and uncertainties described in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC, and those other risks described elsewhere in this report, before deciding whether to purchase our common stock.  Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may also become important factors that may harm the Company’s business, financial condition, and results of operations.  The occurrence of risk factors could harm the Company’s business, financial condition, and results of operations for company operations, as well as franchised operations.  The trading price of the Company’s common stock could decline due to any of these risks and uncertainties, and stockholders may lose part or all of their investment.

Item 6.    Exhibits:

31.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a).
   
31.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a).
   
32.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.
   
32.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.


SIGNATURES

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

 
Western Sizzlin Corporation
   
 
By:
/s/ Sardar Biglari
   
Sardar Biglari
   
President and Chief Executive Officer
     
 
By:
/s/ Robyn B. Mabe
   
Robyn B. Mabe
   
Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
     
Date: August 11, 2009
   

31