Edgar Filing: AVALON HOLDINGS CORP

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Form 10-Q

2009

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

x	Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2009

¨	Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

for the transition period from to

Commission file number 1-14105

AVALON HOLDINGS CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)


Ohio		34-1863889
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)		(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

One American Way, Warren, Ohio		44484-5555
(Address of principal executive offices)		(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (330) 856-8800

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

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

The registrant had 3,191,038 shares of its Class A Common Stock and 612,293 shares of its Class B Common Stock outstanding as of November 10, 2009.

AVALON HOLDINGS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

INDEX


		Page
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.	Financial Statements
	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2009 and 2008 (Unaudited)	3
	Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 2009 (Unaudited) and December 31, 2008	4
	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2009 and 2008 (Unaudited)	5
	Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)	6

Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	10

Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk	17

Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	17

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.	Legal Proceedings	18

Item 2.	Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds	18

Item 3.	Defaults upon Senior Securities	18

Item 4.	Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders	18

Item 5.	Other Information	18

Item 6.	Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K	18

SIGNATURE		19

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

AVALON HOLDINGS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited)

(in thousands, except per share amounts)


	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2009			2008			2009			2008

Net operating revenues	$	9,619		$	14,255		$	26,834		$	36,329

Costs and expenses:
Costs of operations		7,757			11,589			21,833			29,579
Depreciation and amortization		420			407			1,268			1,126
Selling, general and administrative expenses		1,484			1,808			4,549			5,121


Operating (loss) income		(42	)		451			(816	)		503

Other income (expense):
Interest expense		(5	)		(3	)		(12	)		(10	)
Interest income		10			7			24			44
Other income, net		41			43			155			169

Income (loss) before taxes		4			498			(649	)		706
Provision for income taxes		4			16			18			30

Net income (loss)	$	0		$	482		$	(667	)	$	676


Net income (loss) per share (Note 2)	$	0		$	.13		$	(.18	)	$	.18


Weighted average shares outstanding (Note 2)		3,803			3,803			3,803			3,803

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

AVALON HOLDINGS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(in thousands, except per share amounts)


	September 30, 2009			December 31, 2008
	(Unaudited)
Assets:
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	5,546		$	3,061
Accounts receivable, net		6,156			9,304
Prepaid expenses		248			309
Other current assets		625			636

Total current assets		12,575			13,310

Property and equipment, less accumulated depreciation and amortization of $8,719 in 2009 and $7,761 in 2008		28,588			29,437
Leased property under capital leases, less accumulated depreciation and amortization of $1,678 in 2009 and $1,384 in 2008		5,605			5,882
Noncurrent deferred tax asset		25			25
Other assets, net		58			59

Total assets	$	46,851		$	48,713


Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current Liabilities:
Current portion of obligations under capital leases	$	1		$	1
Accounts payable		3,973			4,831
Accrued payroll and other compensation		586			711
Accrued income taxes		1			19
Other accrued taxes		219			281
Other liabilities and accrued expenses		2,334			2,466

Total current liabilities		7,114			8,309

Obligations under capital leases		230			230

Shareholders’ Equity:
Class A Common Stock, $.01 par value		32			32
Class B Common Stock, $.01 par value		6			6
Paid-in capital		58,096			58,096
Accumulated deficit		(18,627	)		(17,960	)


Total shareholders’ equity		39,507			40,174


Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	46,851		$	48,713

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

AVALON HOLDINGS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)

(in thousands)


	Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2009			2008
Operating activities:
Net (loss) income	$	(667	)	$	676
Reconciliation of net (loss) income to cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization		1,268			1,126
Provision for losses on accounts receivable		62			1
Gain from disposal of property and equipment		(2	)		(2	)
Change in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable		3,086			(1,951	)
Prepaid expenses		61			(31	)
Other current assets		11			(317	)
Other assets		—			—
Accounts payable		(858	)		1,233
Accrued payroll and other compensation		(125	)		279
Accrued income taxes		(18	)		(26	)
Other accrued taxes		(62	)		(30	)
Other liabilities and accrued expenses		(132	)		302

Net cash provided by operating activities		2,624			1,260

Investing activities:
Proceeds from disposal of property and equipment		2			6
Capital expenditures		(141	)		(2,272	)

Net cash used in investing activities		(139	)		(2,266	)


Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		2,485			(1,006	)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year		3,061			5,086

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	5,546		$	4,080

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

AVALON HOLDINGS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

September 30, 2009

Note 1. Basis of Presentation

The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of Avalon Holdings Corporation and subsidiaries (collectively “Avalon”) and related notes included herein have been prepared in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Accordingly, certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles have been omitted consistent with such rules and regulations. The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes included in Avalon’s 2008 Annual Report to Shareholders.

In the opinion of management, these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position of Avalon as of September 30, 2009, and the results of its operations and cash flows for the interim periods presented.

The operating results for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year.

Avalon evaluated subsequent events through November 11, 2009, the date the financial statements were issued.

Note 2. Basic Net Income (Loss) per Share

Basic net income (loss) per share has been computed using the weighted average number of common shares outstanding each period, which were 3,803,331. There were no common equivalent shares outstanding and therefore, diluted per share amounts are equal to basic per share amounts for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008.

Note 3. Credit Facility

On March 21, 2008, Avalon entered into a $3.5 million unsecured line of credit agreement with The Huntington National Bank. Interest on borrowings accrues at LIBOR plus 1.75%. The agreement was amended in April 2009 to provide for a minimum interest rate of 3.25%. The line of credit contains certain financial and other covenants, customary representations, warranties and events of defaults. At September 30, 2009, there were no borrowings under the line of credit.

AVALON HOLDINGS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

(Unaudited)

September 30, 2009

Note 4. Legal Matters

In the ordinary course of conducting its business, Avalon becomes involved in lawsuits, administrative proceedings and governmental investigations, including those related to environmental matters. Some of these proceedings may result in fines, penalties or judgments being assessed against Avalon which, from time to time, may have an impact on its business and financial condition. Although the outcome of such lawsuits or other proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty, Avalon does not believe that any uninsured ultimate liabilities, fines or penalties resulting from such pending proceedings, individually or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on its liquidity, financial position or results of operations.

Note 5. Business Segment Information

Avalon’s reportable segments include waste management services and golf and related operations. In determining the segment information, Avalon considered its operating and management structure and the types of information subject to regular review by its “chief operating decision maker.” Avalon accounts for intersegment net operating revenues as if the transactions were with third parties. The segment disclosures are presented on this basis for all periods presented.

Avalon’s primary business segment, the waste management services segment, provides hazardous and nonhazardous waste disposal brokerage and management services to industrial, commercial, municipal and governmental customers and manages a captive landfill for an industrial customer. The golf and related operations segment includes the operations of golf courses, a travel agency and clubhouses that provide recreational, dining and banquet facilities. Revenue for the golf and related operations segment consists primarily of membership dues, green fees, cart rentals, merchandise, and food and beverage sales. Revenue related to membership dues are recognized proportionately over twelve months. The unrecognized or deferred revenues at both September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008 were $2.0 million and are included in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets under the caption “Other liabilities and accrued expenses”. Avalon does not have significant operations located outside the United States and, accordingly, geographical segment information is not presented.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008, no customer accounted for 10% or more of Avalon’s consolidated net operating revenues.

AVALON HOLDINGS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

(Unaudited)

September 30, 2009

The accounting policies of the segments are consistent with those described for the consolidated financial statements in the summary of significant accounting policies. Avalon measures segment profit for internal reporting purposes as income before taxes. Business segment information including the reconciliation of segment income before taxes to income before taxes is as follows (in thousands):


	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2009			2008			2009			2008
Net operating revenues from:
Waste management services:
External customers revenues	$	6,571		$	10,954		$	19,441		$	28,829
Intersegment revenues		—			1			—			1

Total waste management services		6,571			10,955			19,441			28,830


Golf and related operations:
External customers revenues		3,048			3,301			7,393			7,500
Intersegment revenues		9			14			33			38

Total golf and related operations		3,057			3,315			7,426			7,538


Segment operating revenues		9,628			14,270			26,867			36,368
Intersegment eliminations		(9	)		(15	)		(33	)		(39	)

Total net operating revenues	$	9,619		$	14,255		$	26,834		$	36,329


Income (loss) before taxes:
Waste management services	$	562		$	973		$	1,573		$	2,704
Golf and related operations		5			63			(500	)		(151	)

Segment income before taxes		567			1,036			1,073			2,553
Corporate interest income		10			—			23			11
Corporate other income, net		3			2			10			12
General corporate expenses		(576	)		(540	)		(1,755	)		(1,870	)

Income (loss) before taxes	$	4		$	498		$	(649	)	$	706


Interest income:
Waste management services	$	—		$	6		$	1		$	29
Golf and related operations		—			1			—			4
Corporate		10			—			23			11

Total	$	10		$	7		$	24		$	44

AVALON HOLDINGS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

(Unaudited)

September 30, 2009


	September 30, 2009			December 31, 2008
Identifiable assets:
Waste management services	$	8,908		$	13,823
Golf and related operations		32,012			32,841
Corporate		39,603			35,444

Subtotal		80,523			82,108
Elimination of intersegment receivables		(33,672	)		(33,395	)

Total	$	46,851		$	48,713

The decrease in the identifiable assets of the waste management services segment is primarily due to a decrease in accounts receivable of the waste brokerage and management services business at September 30, 2009 compared with December 31, 2008 and a decrease in intersegment transactions which are eliminated in consolidation. The increase in identifiable assets of corporate is primarily due to an increase in cash and an increase in intersegment transactions which are eliminated in consolidation.

Note 6. Recently Issued Financial Accounting Standards

On July 1, 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued the FASB Accounting Standards Codification (the Codification). The Codification became the single source of authoritative nongovernmental U.S. GAAP, superseding existing FASB, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)), Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) and related literature. The Codification eliminates the previous US GAAP hierarchy and establishes one level of authoritative GAAP. All other literature is considered non-authoritative. The Statement is effective for financial statements issued for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. Avalon adopted the Codification for the quarter ending September 30, 2009. There was no impact on the consolidated financial results as this change is disclosure-only in nature.

In May 2009, the FASB issued guidelines on subsequent event accounting which sets forth: 1) the period after the balance sheet date during which management of a reporting entity should evaluate events or transactions that may occur for potential recognition of disclosure in the financial statements; 2) the circumstances under which an entity should recognize events or transactions occurring after the balance sheet date in its financial statements; and 3) the disclosures that an entity should make about events or transactions that occurred after the balance sheet date. This Statement is effective for interim and annual periods ending after June 15, 2009. Avalon adopted this Statement in the quarter ended June 30, 2009. This Statement did not impact the consolidated financial results.

ITEM 2.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion provides information which management believes is relevant to an assessment and understanding of the operations and financial condition of Avalon Holdings Corporation and its subsidiaries. As used in this report, the term “Avalon” means Avalon Holdings Corporation and its wholly owned subsidiaries, taken as a whole, unless the context indicates otherwise.

Statements included in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations which are not historical in nature are intended to be, and are hereby identified as, ‘forward looking statements’. Avalon cautions readers that forward looking statements, including, without limitation, those relating to Avalon’s future business prospects, revenues, working capital, liquidity, capital needs, interest costs, and income, are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward looking statements, due to risks and factors identified herein and from time to time in Avalon’s reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

For the first nine months of 2009, Avalon utilized existing cash and cash provided from operations to fund capital expenditures and meet operating needs.

Avalon’s aggregate capital expenditures in 2009 are expected to be in the range of $.2 million to $.5 million. Such expenditures will principally relate to equipment purchases and building improvements for the golf and related operations. During the first nine months of 2009, capital expenditures for Avalon totaled approximately $.1 million which was principally related to equipment purchases, building improvements and furniture and fixtures.

Avalon entered into a long-term agreement with Squaw Creek Country Club to lease and operate its golf course and related facilities. The lease, which commenced November 1, 2003, has an initial term of ten (10) years with four (4) consecutive ten (10) year renewal term options unilaterally exercisable by Avalon. Under the lease, Avalon is obligated to pay $15,000 in annual rent and make leasehold improvements of $150,000 per year. Amounts expended by Avalon for leasehold improvements during a given year in excess of $150,000 will be carried forward and applied to future leasehold improvement obligations. Avalon has made approximately $7.3 million of leasehold improvements as of September 30, 2009. Based upon the amount of leasehold improvements already made and leasehold improvements anticipated to be made in the future, Avalon expects to exercise all of its renewal options.

Working capital was $5.5 million at September 30, 2009 compared with $5.0 million at December 31, 2008. The increase in working capital is primarily due to an increase in cash and cash equivalents and a decrease in accounts payable of the waste management services segment, partially offset by a decrease in accounts receivable of the waste management services segment.

The decrease in accounts receivable at September 30, 2009 compared with December 31, 2008 is primarily due to lower net operating revenues of the waste management services segment in the

third quarter of 2009 compared with the fourth quarter of 2008, partially offset by an increase in accounts receivable of the golf and related operations segment. The waste management services segment recorded net operating revenues of $6.6 million in the third quarter of 2009 compared with $10.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2008.

The decrease in accounts payable at September 30, 2009 compared with December 31, 2008 is primarily a result of decreased payables due disposal facilities and transporters used by the waste brokerage and management services business as a result of lower net operating revenues in the third quarter of 2009 compared with the fourth quarter of 2008 and the timing of payments to such vendors in the ordinary course of business.

The decrease in accrued payroll and other compensation at September 30, 2009 compared with December 31, 2008 is primarily a result of a decrease in accrued bonuses relating to the waste brokerage and management services business.

The decrease in other liabilities and accrued expenses at September 30, 2009 compared with December 31, 2008 is primarily due to a decision made by the Board of Directors of Avalon in the third quarter of 2009 to not make the employer discretionary contribution to Avalon’s 401k plan that was accrued at December 31, 2008.

Management believes that anticipated cash provided from future operations, existing working capital, as well as Avalon’s ability to incur indebtedness, will be, for the foreseeable future, sufficient to meet operating requirements and fund capital expenditure programs.

Several private country clubs in the northeast Ohio area are experiencing economic difficulties. Avalon believes some of these clubs may represent an attractive investment opportunity and is giving consideration to the possibility of acquiring one or more additional golf courses. Avalon will continue to consider acquisitions that make economic sense. Such potential acquisitions could be financed by existing working capital, secured or unsecured debt, issuance of common stock, or issuance of a security with characteristics of both debt and equity, any of which could impact liquidity in the future.

Results of Operations

Overall performance

Net operating revenues in the third quarter of 2009 decreased to $9.6 million from $14.3 million in the prior year’s third quarter. The decrease is primarily the result of a significant decrease in the net operating revenues of the waste management services segment. Costs of operations decreased to $7.8 million in the third quarter of 2009 compared with $11.6 million in the prior year’s third quarter. The decrease is primarily due to the decrease in net operating revenues of the waste management services segment, which resulted in lower transportation and disposal costs, as these costs vary directly with the associated net operating revenues. Fixed costs relating to depreciation and amortization expense were $.4 million in both the third quarter of 2009 and 2008. Consolidated selling, general and administrative expenses declined to $1.5 million in the third quarter of 2009 compared with $1.8 million in the third quarter of 2008 primarily due to a decrease in the sales and management incentive bonuses of the waste management services segment and the elimination of the 2008 employer

discretionary contribution to Avalon’s 401k plan, which was scheduled to be made in the third quarter of 2009. Avalon broke even in the third quarter of 2009 compared with net income of $.5 million or $.13 per share, in the third quarter of 2008.

For the first nine months of 2009, net operating revenues decreased to $26.8 million compared with $36.3 million for the first nine months of 2008. The decrease is primarily the result of a significant decrease in the net operating revenues of the waste management services segment. Costs of operations were $21.8 million for the first nine months of 2009 compared with $29.6 million for the first nine months of 2008. The decrease is primarily due to the decline in net operating revenues of the waste management services segment, which resulted in lower transportation and disposal costs, as these costs vary directly with the associated net operating revenues. Fixed costs relating to depreciation and amortization expense were $1.3 million for the first nine months of 2009 and $1.1 million for the same period in 2008. Consolidated selling, general and administrative expenses declined to $4.5 million for the first nine months of 2009 compared with $5.1 million for the first nine months of 2008 primarily due to a decrease in the sales and management incentive bonuses of the waste management services segment and the elimination of the 2008 employer discretionary contribution to Avalon’s 401k plan, which was scheduled to be made in the third quarter of 2009. Avalon incurred a net loss of $.7 million, or $.18 per share, for the first nine months of 2009 compared with net income of $.7 million, or $.18 per share, for the first nine months of 2008.

Performance in the Third Quarter of 2009 compared with the Third Quarter of 2008

Segment performance

Segment performance should be read in conjunction with Note 5 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Net operating revenues of the waste management services segment decreased approximately 40% to $6.6 million in the third quarter of 2009 compared with $11.0 million in the third quarter of the prior year. For the third quarter of 2009, net operating revenues of the waste brokerage and management services business were $6.0 million compared with $10.5 million in the third quarter of 2008, while the net operating revenues of the captive landfill management operations were $.6 million in the third quarter of 2009 compared with $.5 million in the third quarter of 2008. The decrease in the net operating revenues of the waste brokerage and management services business was primarily due to a decrease of 41% in continuous or ongoing work, and a 45% decrease in event work. The decreased continuous work was primarily a result of the slowdown in the economy which negatively affected the production and manufacturing of many of the industrial customers which generate hazardous and nonhazardous waste at their operating facilities. The decrease in event work was due to a decline in the number of projects won in the third quarter of 2009 compared with the third quarter of 2008. Event work is defined as bid projects under contract that occurs on a one-time basis over a short period of time and can fluctuate significantly from quarter to quarter. The increase in net operating revenues of the captive landfill operations was primarily the result of increased sales of construction mats.

Due to the significant decline in net operating revenues, income before taxes for the waste management services segment decreased to $.6 million in the third quarter of 2009 compared

with $1.0 million in the third quarter of the prior year. Income before taxes of the waste brokerage and management services business was $.4 million for the third quarter of 2009 compared with $.9 million for the third quarter of 2008. Income before taxes of the captive landfill operations increased to $.2 million in the third quarter of 2009 compared with $.1 million in the third quarter of 2008.

Avalon’s golf and related operations segment consists primarily of golf courses, clubhouses which provide dining and banquet facilities, and a travel agency. Although the golf courses will continue to be available to the general public, the primary source of revenues will arise from members of the Avalon Golf and Country Club. Net operating revenues for the golf and related operations were $3.1 million in the third quarter of 2009 compared with $3.3 million in the third quarter of the prior year. The decrease was primarily a result of a decrease in membership dues, lower golf related revenues and decreased food and beverage sales. The average number of members during the third quarter of 2009 decreased to 2,657 compared with 2,698 in the prior year’s third quarter. The ability to attract and retain members is very important to the success of the golf and related operations segment. Avalon is continually using different marketing strategies to attract and retain members, such as local television advertising and various membership promotions. However, due to the state of the economy, retaining members and attracting new members is becoming more difficult. A significant decline in members could adversely impact the financial results of the golf and related operations segment. The golf and related operations segment recorded income before taxes of $5,000 in the third quarter of 2009 compared with income before taxes of $63,000 in the third quarter of the prior year. The decrease in income before taxes is primarily due to increased advertising expenses and the decrease in net operating revenues, partially offset by decreased employee costs and operating expenses.

Interest income

Interest income was $10,000 in the third quarter of 2009 compared with $7,000 in the third quarter of 2008. The increase is primarily the result of higher average cash and cash equivalents invested during the third quarter of 2009 compared with the third quarter of the prior year.

General corporate expenses

General corporate expenses were $.6 million in the third quarter of 2009 compared with $.5 million in the third quarter of 2008. The increase in general corporate expenses was primarily the result of higher professional fees, partially offset by lower employee costs.

Net income

Avalon broke even in the third quarter of 2009 compared with net income of $.5 million in the third quarter of 2008. Excluding the minor effect of the state income tax provisions, Avalon’s overall effective tax rate was 0% in the third quarter of 2009 and 2008. The overall effective tax rate is different than statutory rates primarily due to a change in the valuation allowance. Avalon’s income tax provision on income before taxes was offset by a decrease in the valuation allowance due to the use of its net operating losses. A valuation allowance is provided when it is more likely than not that deferred tax assets relating to certain federal and state loss carryforwards will not be realized. Avalon continues to maintain a valuation allowance against the majority of its deferred tax amounts until it is evident that the deferred tax asset will be utilized in the future.

Performance in the first nine months of 2009 compared with the first nine months of 2008

Segment performance

Segment performance should be read in conjunction with Note 5 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Net operating revenues of the waste management services segment decreased approximately 33% to $19.4 million in the first nine months of 2009 compared with $28.8 million in the first nine months of the prior year. For the first nine months of 2009, net operating revenues of the waste brokerage and management services business were $17.7 million compared with $27.0 million for the first nine months of 2008, while the net operating revenues of the captive landfill management operations were $1.7 million in the for the first nine months of 2009 compared with $1.8 million for the same period in 2008. The decrease in net operating revenues of the waste brokerage and management services business was primarily the result of a 38% decline in continuous or ongoing work and a 28% decline in event work. The decrease in continuous work is primarily the result of a slowdown in the economy which negatively affected the production and manufacturing of many of the industrial customers which generate hazardous and nonhazardous waste at their operating facilities. The decrease in event work was due to a decline in the number of projects won for the first nine months of 2009 compared with the same period in 2008. Net operating revenues of the captive landfill management operations decreased in the first nine months of 2009 compared with the first nine months of 2008 primarily as a result of a decrease in the amount of waste disposed of at the landfill and a decrease in additional work performed on miscellaneous projects, partially offset by an increase in the sale of construction mats. Income from operations before taxes for the waste management services segment decreased to $1.6 million in the first nine months of 2009 compared with $2.7 million in the first nine months of the prior year. The decrease is primarily a result of the significant decrease in net operating revenues of the waste brokerage and management services business. Income before taxes of the waste brokerage and management services business was $1.2 million for the first nine months of 2009 compared with $2.3 million for the first nine months of 2008. Income before taxes of the captive landfill operations was $.4 million for both the first nine months of 2009 and 2008.

Net operating revenues of the golf and related operations segment decreased to $7.4 million in the first nine months of 2009 compared with $7.5 million in the first nine months of the prior year. The golf courses, which are located in northeast Ohio and western Pennsylvania, were unavailable for play during the first three months of 2009 and 2008 due to adverse weather conditions. The dining and banquet facilities at Sharon were closed during the first two months of 2008 for renovation. The decrease in net operating revenues is primarily due to a slight decrease in membership dues, lower merchandise sales and golf related revenues, partially offset by an increase in fitness and spa related revenues. The average number of members during the first nine months of 2009 increased to 2,635 compared with 2,559 in the prior year’s first nine months. Although the average number of members increased, due to the mix between social and golf members, net operating revenues from membership dues decreased slightly. The ability to attract and retain members is very important to the success of the golf and related operations segment. Avalon is continually using different marketing strategies to attract and retain

members, such as local television advertising and various membership promotions. However, due to the state of the economy, retaining members and attracting new members is becoming more difficult. A significant decline in members could adversely impact the financial results of the golf and related operations segment. The golf and related operations segment incurred a loss before taxes of $.5 million in the first nine months of 2009 compared with a loss before taxes of $.2 million in the first nine months of the prior year. The increased loss before taxes is primarily due to higher employee costs and increased advertising, depreciation and utility expenses.

Interest income

Interest income was $24,000 in the first nine months of 2009 compared with $44,000 in the first nine months of 2008. The decrease is primarily the result of a lower average investment rates.

General corporate expenses

General corporate expenses were $1.8 million in the first nine months of 2009 compared with $1.9 million in the first nine months of 2008. The decrease in general corporate expenses was primarily the result of lower employee related costs, partially offset by an increase in professional fees.

Net income

Avalon incurred a net loss of $.7 million in the first nine months of 2009 compared with net income of $.7 million in the first nine months of the prior year. Excluding the minor effect of state income tax provisions, Avalon’s overall effective tax rate was 0% for the first nine months of 2009 and 2008. The overall effective tax rate is different than statutory rates primarily due to a change in the valuation allowance. Avalon’s income tax provision on income before taxes was offset by a decrease in the valuation allowance due to the use of its net operating losses. A valuation allowance is provided when it is more likely than not that deferred tax assets relating to certain federal and state loss carryforwards will not be realized. Avalon continues to maintain a valuation allowance against the majority of its deferred tax amounts until it is evident that the deferred tax asset will be utilized in the future.

Trends and Uncertainties

In the ordinary course of conducting its business, Avalon becomes involved in lawsuits, administrative proceedings and governmental investigations, including those relating to environmental matters. Some of these proceedings may result in fines, penalties or judgments being assessed against Avalon which, from time to time, may have an impact on its business and financial condition. Although the outcome of such lawsuits or other proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty, management assesses the probability of loss and accrues a liability as appropriate. Avalon does not believe that any uninsured ultimate liabilities, fines or penalties resulting from such pending proceedings, individually or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on its liquidity, financial position or results of operations.

The federal government and numerous state and local governmental bodies are continuing to consider legislation or regulations to either restrict or impede the disposal and/or transportation of waste. A portion of Avalon’s waste brokerage and management services revenues is derived from the disposal and/or transportation of out-of-state waste. Any law or regulation restricting or impeding the transportation of waste or the acceptance of out-of-state waste for disposal could have a negative effect on Avalon.

Avalon’s waste brokerage and management services business obtains and retains customers by providing services and identifying cost-efficient disposal options unique to a customer’s needs. Consolidation within the solid waste industry has resulted in reducing the number of disposal options available to waste generators and may cause disposal pricing to increase. In addition, consolidation has had the effect of reducing the number of competitors offering disposal alternatives which may adversely impact the future financial performance of Avalon’s waste brokerage and management services business.

A significant portion of Avalon’s business is generated from waste brokerage and management services provided to customers and is not subject to long-term contracts. In light of current economic, regulatory and competitive conditions, there can be no assurance that Avalon’s current customers will continue to transact business with Avalon at historical levels. Failure by Avalon to retain its current customers or to replace lost business could adversely impact the future financial performance of Avalon.

Avalon’s captive landfill management business is dependent upon a single customer as its sole source of revenue. If the captive landfill management business is unable to retain this customer, Avalon’s future financial performance could be adversely impacted.

Economic challenges throughout the industries served by Avalon have resulted in payment defaults by customers. While Avalon continuously endeavors to limit customer credit risks, customer-specific financial downturns are not controllable by management. Significant customer payment defaults would have a material adverse impact upon Avalon’s future financial performance.

The Avalon Golf and Country Club has golf courses and clubhouses at each of its three facilities. Two of the Club’s facilities, Squaw Creek and Sharon, each have a swimming pool, a fitness center and dining and banquet facilities. The Squaw Creek facility also has tennis courts. The Avalon Golf and Country Club competes with many public courses and country clubs in the area. Although the golf courses continue to be available to the general public, the primary source of revenues is derived from the members of the Avalon Golf and Country Club. Avalon believes that the combination of the three facilities will result in a significant increase in the number of members of the Avalon Golf and Country Club. However, due to the state of the economy, retaining members and attracting new members has become more difficult. Although Avalon has been able to increase the number of members of the Avalon Golf and Country Club year-to-year, as of September 30, 2009, Avalon has not attained its membership goals. A significant decline in members could adversely impact the financial results of the golf and related operations segment. There can be no assurance as to when such increased membership will be attained and when the golf and related operations will ultimately become profitable. Failure by Avalon to attain increased membership could adversely affect the future financial performance of Avalon.

All three of Avalon’s golf course operations currently hold liquor licenses for their respective facilities. If, for some reason, any one of these facilities were to lose its liquor license, the financial performance of the golf and related operations would be adversely affected.

Avalon’s operations are somewhat seasonal in nature since a significant portion of those operations are primarily conducted in selected northeastern and midwestern states. Additionally,

Avalon’s golf courses are located in northeast Ohio and western Pennsylvania and are significantly dependent upon weather conditions during the golf season. As a result, Avalon’s financial performance is adversely affected by adverse weather conditions.

Management is currently evaluating Avalon’s strategic direction for the future. While there are no specific transactions under negotiation or pending at this time, Avalon does not necessarily intend to limit itself in the future to lines of business which it has historically conducted.

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

Avalon does not have significant exposure to changing interest rates. A 10% change in interest rates would have an immaterial effect on Avalon’s income before taxes for the next fiscal year. Avalon currently has no debt outstanding and invests primarily in Certificates of Deposit, U.S. Treasury notes, short-term money market funds and other short-term obligations. Avalon does not undertake any specific actions to cover its exposure to interest rate risk and Avalon is not a party to any interest rate risk management transactions. Avalon does not purchase or hold any derivative financial instruments.

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

As required by Rule 13a-15 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”), Avalon’s management conducted an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of September 30, 2009. For purposes of the foregoing, the term disclosure controls and procedures means controls and other procedures of an issuer that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to the issuer’s management, including its principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Avalon’s disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives as outlined above. Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that they believe that, as of September 30, 2009 our disclosure controls and procedures were effective at a reasonable assurance level.

Changes in Internal Controls over Financial Reporting. There were no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting during the fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2009 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controls over financial reporting.

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.

Legal Proceedings

Reference is made to “Item 3. Legal Proceedings” in Avalon’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008 for a description of legal proceedings.

Item 2.

Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds

None

Item 3.

Defaults upon Senior Securities

None

Item 4.

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

None

Item 5.

Other Information

None

Item 6.

Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

(a) Exhibits



Exhibit 31.1		Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Exhibit 31.2		Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Exhibit 32.1		Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Exhibit 32.2		Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

(b) Reports on Form 8-K

None

SIGNATURE

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

Large accelerated filer

Accelerated filer

Non-accelerated filer

Smaller reporting company