Item 1. Business
GENERAL
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc. (the "Company") is incorporated under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia and has its principal offices at 600 East Main Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219 (telephone number 804-225-6300). The Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bell Atlantic Corporation ("Bell Atlantic").
The Company presently serves a territory consisting of five complete Local Access and Transport Areas ("LATAs") and a part of a sixth LATA. These LATAs are generally centered on a city or based on some other identifiable common geography and, with certain limited exceptions, each LATA marks the boundary within which the Company has been permitted by the "Modification of Final Judgment" ("MFJ") to provide telephone service.
The Company currently provides two basic types of telecommunications services. First, the Company transports telecommunications traffic between subscribers located within the same LATA ("intraLATA service"), including both local and long distance services. Local service includes the provision of local exchange ("dial-tone"), local private line and public telephone services (including dial-tone service for pay telephones owned by the Company and by other pay telephone providers). Among other local services provided are Centrex (telephone subsidiary central office-based switched telephone service enabling the subscriber to make both intercom and outside calls) and a variety of special and custom calling services. Long distance service includes message toll service (calling service beyond the local calling area) within LATA boundaries, and intraLATA Wide Area Toll Service (WATS) and 800 services (volume discount offerings for customers with highly concentrated demand). Second, the Company provides exchange access service, which links a subscriber's telephone or other equipment to the transmission facilities of interexchange carriers which, in turn, provide telecommunications service between LATAs ("interLATA service") to their customers. The Company also provides exchange access service to interexchange carriers which provide intrastate intraLATA toll service.
BELL ATLANTIC - NYNEX MERGER
On August 14, 1997, Bell Atlantic and NYNEX Corporation ("NYNEX") consummated a merger whereby NYNEX became a subsidiary of Bell Atlantic and NYNEX shareowners received 0.768 of a share of Bell Atlantic common stock for each share of NYNEX common stock owned. Bell Atlantic owns nine subsidiaries which provide domestic telecommunications services (collectively, the "telephone subsidiaries").
In 1997, the Company recognized merger-related costs of approximately $15 million, consisting of $3 million of direct incremental costs, $11 million for employee severance costs and $1 million for transition and integration costs. These costs include approximately $10 million representing the Company's allocated share of merger-related costs from Bell Atlantic Network Services, Inc., an affiliate which provides centralized services on a contract basis.
TELECOMMUNICATIONS ACT OF 1996
The Telecommunications Act of 1996 (the "Act") became effective on February 8, 1996. Prior to the enactment of the Act, the operations of Bell Atlantic and its subsidiaries were subject to the requirements of the MFJ, a consent decree that arose out of an antitrust action brought by the United States Department of Justice ("DOJ") against AT&T Corp. ("AT&T") and the Bell Operating Companies ("BOCs"), including the telephone subsidiaries. The Act provides that any conduct or activity previously subject to the MFJ is now subject instead to the restrictions and obligations imposed by the Act.
In general, the Act includes provisions that open local exchange markets to competition and permit BOCs, or their affiliates, such as Bell Atlantic, to engage in manufacturing and to provide services between LATAs. Under the Act, the ability of Bell Atlantic to engage in businesses previously prohibited by the MFJ is largely dependent on satisfying certain conditions contained in the Act and regulations to be promulgated thereunder.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
The Act takes a two-fold approach to the rules governing competition in the interLATA market. First, Bell Atlantic is permitted to apply for state approval to offer interLATA services originating in states outside of the geographic region in which the telephone subsidiaries operate as local exchange carriers.
Second, each of the telephone subsidiaries must demonstrate to the Federal Communications Commission ("FCC") that it has satisfied certain requirements in order for Bell Atlantic to be permitted to offer interLATA services for calls originating within the geographic region in which the telephone subsidiary operates as a local exchange carrier. Among the requirements with which a telephone subsidiary must comply is a 14-point "competitive checklist," which includes steps the telephone subsidiaries must take which will help competitors offer local services through resale of the telephone subsidiaries' service, purchase of unbundled network elements from the telephone subsidiaries, or through the competitors' own networks. Bell Atlantic must also demonstrate to the FCC that its entry into the interLATA market would be in the public interest.
In December 1997, a U. S. District Court found that the line-of-business restrictions in the Act, including the requirement that BOCs alone comply with a competitive checklist before being allowed to provide long distance, are unconstitutional because they apply only to the BOCs. Bell Atlantic was allowed to join the case prior to the court's decision. The court has granted a stay of its decision pending appeals by the DOJ and other parties.
The FCC is required to conduct a number of rulemakings to implement the Act. See "FCC Regulation and Interstate Rates" and "Competition - Local Exchange Services."
OPERATIONS
Bell Atlantic has organized certain telecommunications group functions into business units operating across the telephone subsidiaries. The business units focus on specific market segments. The telephone subsidiaries, including the Company, remain responsible within their respective service areas for the provision of telephone services, financial performance and regulatory matters.
The Consumer Services business unit markets communications services to residential customers.
The Wholesale Services business unit markets (i) switched and special access to the telephone subsidiaries' local exchange networks, and (ii) billing and collection services, including recording, rating, bill processing and bill rendering. The principal customers are interexchange carriers; AT&T is the largest single customer. Other customers include business customers and government agencies with their own special access network connections, wireless companies and other local exchange carriers which resell network connections to their own customers.
The General Business Services business unit markets communications and information services to small and medium-sized businesses.
The Large Business Services business unit markets communications and information services to large businesses. These services include voice switching/processing services (e.g., dedicated private lines, custom Centrex, call management and voice messaging), end-user networking (e.g., credit and debit card transactions, and personal computer-based conferencing, including data and video), internetworking (establishing links between the geographically disparate networks of two or more companies or within the same company), network integration (integrating multiple geographically disparate networks into one system), network optimization (disaster avoidance, 911 service, intelligent vehicle highway systems), video services (distance learning, telemedicine, videoconferencing) and interactive multimedia applications services.
The Public and Operator Services business unit markets pay telephone and operator services to meet consumer needs for accessing public networks and locating and identifying network subscribers, and to provide calling assistance and arrange billing alternatives (e.g., calling card, collect and third party calls).
The Federal Systems business unit markets communications and information technology and services to departments, agencies and offices of the executive, judicial and legislative branches of the federal government.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
The Network Group manages the technologies, services and systems platforms required by the business units and the telephone subsidiaries to meet the needs of their customers, including switching, feature development and on-premises installation and maintenance services.
The Information Services Group publishes directories for the Company.
In order to satisfy the requirements of the Act, the Company transferred certain assets and liabilities associated with its directory publishing activities to a newly formed, wholly owned subsidiary, effective January 1, 1997. The stock of the subsidiary was immediately distributed to Bell Atlantic.
FCC Regulation and Interstate Rates
The telephone subsidiaries, including the Company, are subject to the jurisdiction of the FCC with respect to interstate services and certain related matters. In 1997, the FCC adopted orders to reform the interstate access charge system, to modify its price cap system and to implement the "universal service" requirements of the Act.
Access Charges
Interstate access charges are the rates long distance carriers pay for use and availability of the telephone subsidiaries' facilities for the origination and termination of interstate service. The FCC's order adopted changes to the access tariff structures in order to permit the telephone subsidiaries to recover a greater portion of their interstate costs through rates that reflect the manner in which those costs are incurred. The FCC required a phased restructuring of access charges, beginning in January 1998, so that the telephone subsidiaries' nonusage-sensitive costs will be recovered from long distance carriers and end-users through flat rate charges, and usage-sensitive costs will be recovered from long distance carriers through usage-based rates. In addition, the FCC will require establishment of different levels of usage- based charges for originating and for terminating interstate traffic.
A portion of the telephone subsidiaries' interstate costs are also recovered through flat monthly charges to subscribers ("subscriber line charges"). Under the FCC's order, subscriber line charges for primary residential and single line businesses will remain unchanged initially, but such charges for additional residential lines and multi-line businesses will rise.
The FCC has begun an investigation of the tariffs filed by the telephone subsidiaries and other local exchange carriers to implement this new rate structure.
Price Caps
The FCC also adopted modifications to its price cap rules which affect access rate levels. Under those rules, each year the Company's price cap index is adjusted downward by a fixed percentage intended to reflect increases in productivity ("Productivity Factor") and adjusted upward by an allowance for inflation (the GDP-PI). In the prior year, the Company's Productivity Factor was 5.3%. The FCC created a single Productivity Factor of 6.5% for all price cap companies, eliminated requirements to share a portion of future interstate earnings and required that rates be set as if the higher Productivity Factor had been in effect since July 1996. Any local exchange company that earns an interstate rate of return below 10.25% in a calendar year will be permitted to increase its interstate rates in the following year. The FCC also ordered elimination of recovery for amortized costs associated with the implementation of equal access to all long distance carriers and removal of certain general overhead costs that it concluded were associated with other detariffed services.
The FCC is expected to adopt an order in 1998 to address the conditions under which the FCC would relax or remove existing access rate structure requirements and price cap restrictions as increased local market competition develops.
Universal Service
The FCC also adopted rules implementing the "universal service" provision of the Act, which was designed to ensure that a basket of designated services is widely available and affordable to all customers, including low-income customers and customers in areas that are expensive to serve. The FCC's universal service support in 1998 will approximate $1.5 billion for high-cost areas. The support amount thereafter cannot yet be determined. The FCC, in conjunction with the
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
Federal-State Joint Board on Universal Service, will adopt a methodology for determining high-cost areas for nonrural carriers, and the proper amount of federal universal service support for high-cost areas. A new federal high-cost universal service support mechanism will become effective in 1999.
The FCC also adopted rules to implement the Act's requirements to provide discounted telecommunications services to schools and libraries and to ensure that not-for-profit rural health care providers have access to such services at rates comparable to those charged their urban counterparts. All telecommunications carriers must contribute funding for these universal service programs. The federal universal service funding needs as of January 1, 1998 require each of the telephone subsidiaries to contribute approximately 2% of its interstate retail revenues for high-cost and low income subsidies. Each of the telephone subsidiaries will also be contributing a portion of its total retail revenues for schools, libraries and not-for-profit health care. The telephone subsidiaries will recover these contributions through interstate charges to long distance carriers and end-users.
State Regulation of Rates and Services
The communications services of the Company are subject to regulation by the Virginia State Corporation Commission ("SCC") with respect to intrastate rates and services and certain other matters.
Effective in 1995, the SCC approved an optional regulatory plan that regulates the Company's noncompetitive services on a price cap basis and does not regulate the Company's competitive services. The plan includes a moratorium on rate increases for basic local telephone service until 2001 and eliminates regulation of profits.
Competition
Legislative changes, including provisions of the Act discussed above under "Telecommunications Act of 1996," regulatory changes and new technology are continuing to expand the types of available communications services and equipment and the number of competitors offering such services. The Company anticipates that these industry changes, together with the rapid growth, enormous size and global scope of these markets, will attract new entrants and encourage existing competitors to broaden their offerings. Current and potential competitors in telecommunication services include long distance companies, other local telephone companies, cable companies, wireless service providers, foreign telecommunications providers, electric utilities, Internet service providers and other companies that offer network services. Many of these companies have a strong market presence, brand recognition and existing customer relationships, all of which contribute to intensifying competition and may affect the Company's future revenue growth.
Local Exchange Services
The ability to offer local exchange services has historically been subject to regulation by state regulatory commissions. Applications from competitors to provide and resell local exchange services have been approved by the SCC.
One of the purposes of the Act was to ensure, and accelerate, the emergence of competition in local exchange markets. Toward this end, the Act requires most existing local exchange carriers (incumbent local exchange carriers, or "ILECs"), including the Company, to permit potential competitors (competitive local exchange carriers, or "CLECs") to (i) purchase service from the ILEC for resale to CLEC customers, (ii) purchase unbundled network elements from the ILEC, and/or (iii) interconnect its network with the ILEC's network. The Act provides for arbitration by the state public utility commission if an ILEC and a CLEC are unable to reach agreement on the terms of the arrangement sought by the CLEC.
In 1997 a U.S. Court of Appeals found that the FCC unlawfully attempted to preempt state authority in implementing key provisions of the Act and that several provisions of the FCC's rules are inconsistent with the statutory requirements. In particular, it affirmed that the states have exclusive jurisdiction over the pricing of local interconnection and resale arrangements, that the FCC cannot lawfully allow competitors to "pick and choose" isolated terms out of negotiated interconnection agreements, that the FCC cannot require incumbent local exchange carriers to provide competitors a pre-assembled network platform at network element prices or to combine unbundled network elements for competitors. The U. S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear appeals by the DOJ and other parties of that decision.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
Negotiations between the Company and various CLECs, and arbitrations before the SCC, have continued. As of March 1, 1998, the Company had entered into 42 approved agreements with CLECs.
Under the various agreements and arbitrations discussed above, the Company is generally required to sell its services to CLECs at discounts ranging from approximately 19% to 21% from the prices the Company charges its retail customers.
IntraLATA Toll Services
IntraLATA toll calls originate and terminate within the same LATA, but generally cover a greater distance than a local call. The SCC permits other carriers to offer intraLATA toll services within the state. Until the implementation of "presubscription," intraLATA toll calls are completed by the Company unless the customer dialed a code to access a competing carrier. Presubscription changes this dialing method and enables customers to make these toll calls using another carrier without having to dial an access code. The Act generally prohibits, with certain exceptions, a state from requiring presubscription until the earlier of such time as the BOC is authorized to provide long distance services originating in the state or three years from the effective date of the Act. The Company expects to implement intraLATA presubscription coincident with Bell Atlantic's offering of long distance service in Virginia, or as ordered by the SCC in accordance with the Act.
Alternative Access
A substantial portion of the Company's revenues from business and government customers is derived from a relatively small number of large, multiple-line subscribers.
The Company faces competition from alternative communications systems, constructed by large end users, interexchange carriers and alternative access vendors, which are capable of originating and/or terminating calls without the use of the Company's plant. The ability of such alternative access providers to compete with the Company has been enhanced by the FCC's orders requiring the Company to offer virtual collocated interconnection for special and switched access services.
Other potential sources of competition include cable television systems, shared tenant services and other non-carrier systems which are capable of bypassing the Company's local plant, either partially or completely, through substitution of special access for switched access or through concentration of telecommunications traffic on fewer of the Company's lines.
Wireless Services
Wireless services also constitute potential sources of competition to the Company. Wireless portable telephone services employ digital technology, allow customers to make and receive telephone calls from any location using small handsets, and can also be used for data transmission.
Public Telephone Services
The Company faces increasing competition in the provision of pay telephone services from other providers. In addition, the growth of wireless communications negatively impacts usage of public telephones.
Operator Services
Alternative operator services providers have entered into competition with the Company's operator services product line.
EMPLOYEES
As of December 31, 1997, the Company had approximately 6,500 employees.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
Item 2.
Item 2. Properties
GENERAL
The principal properties of the Company do not lend themselves to simple description by character and location. The Company's investment in plant, property and equipment consisted of the following at December 31:
1997 1996 ---- ----
Central office equipment................. 44% 43% Cable, wiring and conduit................ 39 39 Land and buildings....................... 7 7 Other equipment.......................... 8 9 Other.................................... 2 2 --- --- 100% 100% === ===
"Central office equipment" consists of switching equipment, transmission equipment and related facilities. "Cable, wiring and conduit" consists primarily of aerial cable, underground cable, conduit and wiring. "Land and buildings" consists of land owned in fee and improvements thereto, principally central office buildings. "Other equipment" consists of public telephone instruments and telephone equipment, poles, furniture, office equipment, and vehicles and other work equipment. "Other" property consists primarily of plant under construction, capital leases and leasehold improvements.
The Company's customers are served by electronic switching systems that provide a wide variety of services. The Company's network is in a transition from an analog to a digital network, which provides the capabilities to furnish advanced data transmission and information management services. At December 31, 1997, approximately 90% of the access lines were served by digital capability.
CAPITAL EXPENDITURES
The Company has been making and expects to continue to make significant capital expenditures to meet the demand for communications services and to further improve such services. Capital expenditures were approximately $499 million in 1997, $436 million in 1996 and $458 million in 1995. Capital expenditures exclude additions under capital leases. The total investment in plant, property and equipment was approximately $6.0 billion at December 31, 1997, $5.6 billion at December 31, 1996 and $5.4 billion at December 31, 1995, in each case after giving effect to retirements, but before deducting accumulated depreciation at such date.
Item 3.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
There were no proceedings reportable under Item 3.
Item 4.
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
(Omitted pursuant to General Instruction I(2).)
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
PART II
Item 5.
Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters
Not applicable.
Item 6.
Item 6. Selected Financial Data
(Omitted pursuant to General Instruction I(2).)
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
Item 7.
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Results of Operations (Abbreviated pursuant to General Instruction I(2).)
This discussion should be read in conjunction with the Financial Statements and Notes to Financial Statements listed in the index set forth on page.
The communications services of the Company are subject to regulation by the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) with respect to intrastate rates and services and certain other matters. For a further discussion of the Company and its regulatory plan, see Item 1 - "Description of Business."
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - ---------------------
The Company reported net income of $279.9 million in 1997, compared to net income of $327.1 million in 1996.
Bell Atlantic - NYNEX Merger
On August 14, 1997, Bell Atlantic Corporation (Bell Atlantic) and NYNEX Corporation (NYNEX) completed a merger of equals under a definitive merger agreement entered into on April 21, 1996 and amended on July 2, 1996. The stockholders of each company approved the merger at special meetings held in November 1996. Under the terms of the amended agreement, NYNEX became a wholly owned subsidiary of Bell Atlantic. The merger has been accounted for as a pooling of interests.
As a result of conforming the accounting methodologies of Bell Atlantic and NYNEX, the Company has recorded an after-tax charge of $3.6 million to reinvested earnings as if the merger had occurred as of the beginning of the earliest period presented (see Note 9 to the financial statements).
Merger-Related Costs
Results of operations for 1997 include merger-related pre-tax costs totaling approximately $15 million, consisting of $3 million for direct incremental costs, $11 million for employee severance costs and $1 million for transition and integration costs. These costs include approximately $10 million representing the Company's allocated share of merger-related costs from Bell Atlantic Network Services, Inc. (NSI), an affiliate which provides centralized services on a contract basis. Costs allocated from NSI are included in Other Operating Expenses.
Direct incremental costs consist of expenses associated with compensation arrangements related to completing the merger transaction. Employee severance costs represent the Company's proportionate share of benefit costs for the separation by the end of 1999 of management employees who are entitled to benefits under pre-existing Bell Atlantic separation pay plans. Transition and integration costs consist of the Company's proportionate share of costs associated with integrating the operations of Bell Atlantic and NYNEX.
Other Charges and Special Items
In 1997, the Company recorded pre-tax charges of approximately $39 million in connection with consolidating operations and combining organizations and for special items arising in the period. These charges include a small portion representing the Company's allocated share of charges from NSI.
Transfer of Directory Publishing Activities
On January 1, 1997, the Company transferred, at net book value without gain or loss, certain assets and liabilities associated with its directory publishing activities to a newly formed, wholly owned subsidiary. The stock of the subsidiary was immediately distributed to Bell Atlantic. The transfer of such assets and liabilities was completed as part of Bell Atlantic's and the Company's response to the requirements of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, which prohibits the Company from engaging in electronic publishing or joint sales and marketing of electronic products.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
Net assets transferred by the Company totaled approximately $13 million, and consisted of deferred directory production costs (included in prepaid expenses), fixed assets, and related deferred tax liabilities.
Revenues related to the Company's directory publishing activities transferred were approximately $186 million and $164 million for the years ended December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively. Direct expenses related to the directory publishing activities transferred were approximately $75 million and $64 million for the years ended December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively. The Company does not separately identify indirect expenses attributable to the directory publishing activities, including expenses related to billing and data management and processing services, legal, external affairs, depreciation, interest expense and any corresponding tax expense.
Effective January 1, 1997, revenues from directory publishing activities transferred are no longer earned, and the related expenses are no longer incurred, by the Company. Certain other revenues, primarily fees for non- publication of telephone numbers and multiple white page listings continue to be earned by the Company. Additionally, contracts between the Company and another affiliate of Bell Atlantic for billing and collection services related to the directory activities, use of directory listings, and rental charges have created new revenue sources for the Company.
Cumulative Effect of Change in Accounting - Directory Publishing
The Company changed its method of accounting for directory publishing revenues and expenses, effective January 1, 1996. The Company adopted the point- of-publication method, which requires directory revenues and expenses to be recognized upon publication rather than over the lives of the directories. The Company recorded an after-tax increase in income of $16.4 million in the first quarter of 1996, representing the cumulative effect of this accounting change.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
These and other items affecting the comparison of the Company's results of operations for the years ended December 31, 1997 and 1996 are discussed in the following sections.
OPERATING REVENUE STATISTICS - ----------------------------
1997 1996 % Change - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
At Year-End - ----------- Access Lines in Service (in thousands) Residence................................ 2,069 1,979 4.5% Business................................. 1,227 1,176 4.3 Public................................... 42 41 2.4 ------ ------ 3,338 3,196 4.4 ====== ======
For the Year - ------------ Access Minutes of Use (in millions)........ 15,261 14,306 6.7 ====== ======
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
OPERATING REVENUES - ------------------ (Dollars in Millions)
For the Years Ended December 31 1997 1996 % change - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Local services.......................... $1,128.0 $1,055.5 6.9% Network access services................. 621.6 599.9 3.6 Long distance service................... 74.3 82.6 (10.0) Ancillary services...................... 235.1 222.2 5.8 Directory and information services...... 12.1 196.4 (93.8) -------- -------- Total................................... $2,071.1 $2,156.6 (4.0) ======== ========
LOCAL SERVICES REVENUES
Increase - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - 1996 $72.5 6.9% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Local services revenues are earned by the Company from the provision of local exchange, local private line, public telephone (pay phone) and value-added services. Value-added services are a family of services which expand the utilization of the network. These services include products such as Caller ID, Call Waiting and Return Call.
Higher usage of the Company's network facilities was the primary reason for the increase in local services revenues in 1997. This growth was generated by an increase in access lines in service of 4.4% in 1997. Access line growth primarily reflects higher demand for Centrex services and an increase in additional residential lines. Higher revenues from private line and switched data services, and stronger business message volumes also contributed to the revenue growth in 1997.
Revenue growth in 1997 was boosted by increased revenues from value-added services. This increase was principally the result of higher customer demand and usage.
The increases in local services revenues were partially offset by the final disposition in 1996 of a review of the Company's 1992 results by the SCC.
For a discussion of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 and its impact on the local exchange market, see Item 1 - "Description of Business, Telecommunications Act of 1996" and "Description of Business, Operations - Competition - Local Exchange Services."
NETWORK ACCESS SERVICES REVENUES
Increase - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - 1996 $21.7 3.6% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Network access services revenues are earned from carriers for their use of the Company's local exchange facilities in providing usage services to their customers, and from end-user subscribers. Switched access revenues are derived from fixed and usage-based charges paid by carriers for access to the Company's network. Special access revenues arise from access charges paid by carriers and end-users who have private networks. End-user access revenues are earned from the Company's customers who pay for access to the network.
Network access services revenues increased in 1997 principally due to higher customer demand as reflected by growth in access minutes of use of 6.7% in 1997. Volume growth was boosted by the expansion of the business market, particularly for high capacity services. Higher end-user revenues, attributable to an increase in access lines in service, also contributed to revenue growth in 1997. This revenue growth was negatively affected in 1997 by price reductions as mandated by federal price cap plans.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates the rates that the Company charges long distance carriers and end-user subscribers for interstate access services. Bell Atlantic is required to file new access rates with the FCC each year under the rules of its Interim Price Cap Plan. The Company implemented required price increases for interstate access services totaling approximately $3 million on an annual basis for the period July 1996 through June 1997. Effective July 1, 1997, the Company implemented annual price decreases on interstate access services of approximately $40 million. The rates included in the 1997 filing will be in effect through June 1998. In addition, effective January 1, 1998, the Company adjusted its annual rates by approximately $17 million to recover contributions that it will owe to the new universal service fund. These revenues will be entirely offset by the contribution amount, which will be recorded in Other Operating Expenses.
Revenues were also affected by reductions of approximately $15 million in 1997 and $12 million in 1996 for contingencies associated with regulatory matters.
For a further discussion of FCC rulemakings concerning access charges, price caps and universal service, see Item 1 - "Description of Business, Operations -FCC Regulation and Interstate Rates."
LONG DISTANCE SERVICES REVENUES
(Decrease) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - 1996 $(8.3) (10.0)% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Long distance services revenues are earned primarily from calls made outside a customer's local calling area, but within the same service area of the Company (intraLATA toll). Other long distance services include 800 services and Wide Area Telephone Service (WATS).
The effects of extended local calling areas and increased competition for intraLATA toll, WATS and private line services all contributed substantially to the reduction in long distance services revenues in 1997. Toll message volumes declined 9.0% in 1997 as compared to 1996, reflecting the impact of the extended local calling areas.
For a discussion of presubscription, see Item 1 -"Description of Business, Operations - Competition - IntraLATA Toll Services."
ANCILLARY SERVICES REVENUES
Increase - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - 1996 $12.9 5.8% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Company provides ancillary services which include billing and collection services for long distance carriers and affiliates, customer premises equipment (CPE) services, facilities rental services for affiliates and nonaffiliates, sales of materials and supplies to affiliates and voice messaging.
Higher ancillary services revenues in 1997 resulted primarily from increased demand for CPE services contracted with the federal government. Revenue growth from voice messaging services, principally Home Voice Mail, and nonperformance fees received from a vendor also contributed to the growth in ancillary services revenues. These increases in ancillary services revenues were partially offset by lower facilities rental revenues.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
DIRECTORY AND INFORMATION SERVICES REVENUES
(Decrease) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - 1996 $(184.3) (93.8)% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As described earlier, the Company transferred certain assets and liabilities associated with its directory publishing activities to a newly formed, wholly owned subsidiary, effective January 1, 1997. As a result, revenues associated with directory publishing activities transferred are no longer earned by the Company. The Company's directory and information services revenues in 1997 are earned primarily from fees for non-publication of telephone numbers, multiple white page listings and usage of directory listings.
The decrease in directory and information services revenues in 1997 was principally due to the effect of the transfer of directory publishing activities.
OPERATING EXPENSES - ------------------ (Dollars in Thousands)
For the Years Ended December 31 1997 1996 % Change - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Employee costs, including benefits and taxes.... $ 327.2 $ 362.8 (9.8)% Depreciation and amortization................... 458.9 420.1 9.2 Taxes other than income......................... 57.8 57.8 -- Other operating expenses........................ 711.2 755.1 (5.8) -------- -------- Total........................................... $1,555.1 $1,595.8 (2.6) ======== ========
EMPLOYEE COSTS
(Decrease) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - 1996 $(35.6) (9.8)% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Employee costs consist of salaries, wages and other employee compensation, employee benefits and payroll taxes paid directly by the Company. Similar costs incurred by employees of Bell Atlantic Network Services, Inc. (NSI), who provide centralized services on a contract basis, are allocated to the Company and are included in Other Operating Expenses.
The decrease in employee costs was primarily due to a reduction in benefit costs caused by a number of factors, including changes in actuarial assumptions, favorable returns on plan assets and lower than expected medical claims. Employee costs were further decreased by the effect of additional benefit costs in 1996 associated with an amendment to a Bell Atlantic separation pay plan and a decline in the level of employee costs incurred for repair and maintenance activity in 1997. This decline was partially due to the impact of the severe weather experienced in the first quarter of 1996 which caused a higher level of costs to be expensed during that period.
These cost reductions were partially offset by annual salary and wage increases, the effect of increased work force levels principally as a result of higher business volumes, and merger-related costs recorded in the third quarter of 1997. As described earlier, the Company recognized $3.3 million in benefit costs for the separation by the end of 1999 of management employees who are entitled to benefits under pre-existing Bell Atlantic separation pay plans. The Company also recorded $.5 million for direct incremental merger-related costs associated with compensation arrangements. Merger-related costs associated with employees of NSI were allocated to the Company and are included in Other Operating Expenses.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION
Increase - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - 1996 $38.8 9.2% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Depreciation and amortization increased as a result of the recording of approximately $22 million for the write-down of obsolete fixed assets in the third quarter of 1997. Charges associated with the write-down of obsolete fixed assets of NSI were allocated to the Company and are included in other operating expenses. Higher depreciation expense was also caused by growth in depreciable telephone plant. These expense increases were partially offset by the effect of lower rates of depreciation and amortization.
TAXES OTHER THAN INCOME
Increase/(Decrease) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - 1996 $--- --- - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Taxes other than income consist principally of taxes for gross receipts, property, capital stock and business licenses.
Taxes other than income was unchanged from 1996. Additional expense for gross receipts tax resulting from an increase in the tax base was entirely offset by prior period adjustments to the federal superfund tax recorded in 1997.
OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES
(Decrease) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - 1996 $(43.9) (5.8)% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other operating expenses consist of contract services including centralized services expenses allocated from NSI, rent, network software costs, the provision for uncollectible accounts receivable, and other costs.
As a result of the transfer of directory publishing activities, certain direct and allocated expenses related to the activities transferred are no longer incurred by the Company.
The decrease in other operating expenses was largely attributable to the effect of the transfer of directory publishing activities and a reduction in network software costs. These decreases were partially offset by higher costs for materials and contract services. The decrease in other operating expenses was further offset by merger-related costs and other special items recorded in the third quarter of 1997. These charges were comprised of costs to consolidate certain redundant real estate properties, the Company's allocated share of employee severance costs, direct incremental and transition merger-related costs and charges associated with the write-down of obsolete fixed assets incurred by NSI, and other miscellaneous expense items.
OTHER INCOME, NET
Increase - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - 1996 $.2 10.5% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The change in other income, net was attributable to additional interest income primarily resulting from the purchase of short-term investments in December 1996 to pre-fund a trust for the payment of certain employee benefits. This change was partially offset by lower interest income associated with a note receivable from an affiliate and the net effect of gains on the sales of certain properties in both 1997 and 1996.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
INTEREST EXPENSE
Increase - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 - 1996 $3.1 4.9% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interest expense increased due to the effects of higher levels of average short-term debt in 1997 and the final disposition in 1996 of a review of the Company's 1992 financial results by the SCC.
See Note 7 to the financial statements for additional information about the Company's debt.
EFFECTIVE INCOME TAX RATES
For the Years Ended December 31 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1997 38.1% - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 37.8% - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The effective income tax rate is the provision for income taxes as a percentage of income before provision for income taxes and cumulative effect of change in accounting principle. The Company's effective income tax rate was higher in 1997 principally due to a reduction in the state income tax credit for telecommunications companies.
A reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax rate to the effective income tax rate for each period is provided in Note 12 to the financial statements.
FINANCIAL CONDITION - -------------------
The Company uses the net cash generated from operations and from external financing to fund capital expenditures for network expansion and modernization, and pay dividends. While current liabilities exceeded current assets at December 31, 1997 and 1996, the Company's sources of funds, primarily from operations and, to the extent necessary, from readily available financing arrangements with an affiliate, are sufficient to meet ongoing operating requirements. Management expects that presently foreseeable capital requirements will continue to be financed primarily through internally generated funds. Additional long-term debt may be needed to fund additional development activities or to maintain the Company's capital structure to ensure financial flexibility.
As of December 31, 1997, the Company had $89.3 million of an unused line of credit with an affiliate, Bell Atlantic Network Funding Corporation. In addition, the Company had $100.0 million remaining under a shelf registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the issuance of unsecured debt securities.
The Company's debt ratio was 51.1% at December 31, 1997, compared to 48.1% at December 31, 1996.
OTHER MATTERS - -------------
Year "2000" Systems Modifications
Bell Atlantic has initiated a comprehensive program to evaluate and address the impact of the year 2000 on its operations. This program includes steps to (a) identify each item or element that will require date code remediation, (b) establish a plan for remediation or replacement, (c) implement the fix, (d) test the remediated product and (e) provide management with assurance of a seamless transition to the year 2000. The identification and planning phases are substantially complete and remediation and testing are in process. Bell Atlantic expects to complete the major portion of its internal date remediation activity in 1998.
For the years 1998 through 1999, Bell Atlantic expects to incur total pre-tax costs of approximately $200 million to $300 million associated with both internal and external staffing resources for the necessary planning, remediation and
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
testing and other expenses to prepare its systems for the year 2000. However, a portion of these costs will not be incremental, but rather will represent the redeployment of existing information technology resources. Estimated expenses include (a) anticipated license fees for replacement software that will generally provide increased functionality as well as year 2000 compliance, and (b) direct remediation costs to provide priority to year 2000 compliance during the next two years. The cost of planning and initial remediation incurred through 1997 has not been significant. Certain other costs, which will be capitalized, represent ongoing investment in systems upgrades, the timing of which is being accelerated in order to facilitate year 2000 compliance.
Bell Atlantic expects to complete this effort on a timely basis without disruption to its customers or operations.
Item 7A.
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
The Company is exposed to interest rate risk in the normal course of its business. The majority of the Company's debt is fixed rate debt. Derivatives such as interest rate swap agreements have not been employed by the Company. The Company's short-term borrowings from an affiliate expose its earnings to changes in short-term interest rates since the interest rate charged on such borrowings is typically fixed for less than one month. As of December 31, 1997, the fair value of the Company's long-term debt was approximately $978 million. The aggregate hypothetical fair value of this long-term debt assuming a 100- basis-point upward parallel shift in the yield curve is estimated to be $908 million. The aggregate hypothetical fair value of this long-term debt assuming a 100-basis-point downward parallel shift in the yield curve is estimated to be $1,055 million. The fair value of the Company's short-term borrowings from an affiliate is not significantly affected by changes in market interest rates.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
Item 8.
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
The information required by this Item is set forth on Pages through .
Item 9.
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
Not applicable.
PART III
Item 10.
Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of Registrant
(Omitted pursuant to General Instruction I(2).)
Item 11.
Item 11. Executive Compensation
(Omitted pursuant to General Instruction I(2).)
Item 12.
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management
(Omitted pursuant to General Instruction I(2).)
Item 13.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions
(Omitted pursuant to General Instruction I(2).)
PART IV
Item 14.
Item 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and Reports on Form 8-K
(a) The following documents are filed as part of this report:
(1) Financial Statements
See Index to Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedule appearing on Page.
(2) Financial Statement Schedules
See Index to Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedule appearing on Page.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
PART IV
Item 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and Reports on Form 8-K (Continued)
(3) Exhibits
Exhibits identified in parentheses below, on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), are incorporated herein by reference as exhibits hereto.
3a Certificate of Incorporation of the registrant, as amended July 28, 1977. (Exhibit 3a to the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1985, File No. 1-6964.)
3a(i) Certificate of Amendment to the registrant's Certificate of Incorporation, as amended August 24, 1990. (Exhibit 3a(i) to the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1990, File No. 1-6964.)
3a(ii) Certificate of Amendment to the registrant's Certificate of Incorporation, adopted December 31, 1993 and filed January 13, 1994. (Exhibit 3a(ii) to the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1993, File No. 1-6964.)
3b By-Laws of the registrant, as amended December 31, 1996.
3b(i) Consent of Sole Stockholder of Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc., dated December 31, 1996.
4 No instrument which defines the rights of holders of long-term debt of the registrant is filed herewith pursuant to Regulation S-K, Item 601(b)(4)(iii)(A). Pursuant to this regulation, the registrant hereby agrees to furnish a copy of any such instrument to the SEC upon request.
10a Agreement among Bell Atlantic Network Services, Inc. and the Bell Atlantic Corporation telephone subsidiaries, dated November 7, 1983. (Exhibit 10b to Bell Atlantic Corporation Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1993, File No. 1-8606.)
23 Consent of Independent Accountants.
27.1 Financial Data Schedule - 1997.
27.2 Restated Financial Data Schedule - 1996.
27.3 Restated Financial Data Schedule - 1995.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K:
There were no Current Reports on Form 8-K filed during the quarter ended December 31, 1997.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
By /s/ Edwin F. Hall ------------------- Edwin F. Hall Controller
March 25, 1998
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the date indicated.
Signature Title Date - --------- ----- ----
/s/ Hugh R. Stallard President and March 25, 1998 - ----------------------------- Chief Executive Officer Hugh R. Stallard and Director (Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ Edwin F. Hall Controller March 25, 1998 - ----------------------------- (Principal Financial Officer) Edwin F. Hall
/s/ Warner F. Brundage, Jr. Director March 25, 1998 - ----------------------------- Warner F. Brundage, Jr.
/s/ Robert W. Woltz, Jr. Director March 25, 1998 - ----------------------------- Robert W. Woltz, Jr.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
Index to Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedule
Page ----
Report of Independent Accountants..............................
Statements of Income and Reinvested Earnings For the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995........
Balance Sheets - December 31, 1997 and 1996....................
Statements of Cash Flows For the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995........
Notes to Financial Statements..................................
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts For the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995........
Financial statement schedules other than that listed above have been omitted because such schedules are not required or applicable.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
To the Board of Directors and Shareowner of Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
We have audited the financial statements and financial statement schedule of Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc. as listed in the index on page of this Form 10-K. The financial statements give retroactive effect to the merger of Bell Atlantic Corporation (the Company's parent company) and NYNEX Corporation on August 14, 1997, which has been accounted for as a pooling of interests, as described in Note 2 to the financial statements. The financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc. as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1997 in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedule referred to above, when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information required to be included therein.
As discussed in Note 3 to the financial statements, in 1996, the Company changed its method of accounting for directory publishing revenues and expenses.
/s/ COOPERS & LYBRAND L.L.P.
2400 Eleven Penn Center Philadelphia, Pennsylvania February 9, 1998
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND REINVESTED EARNINGS For the Years Ended December 31 (Dollars in Millions)
1997 1996 1995 -------- -------- --------
OPERATING REVENUES (including $4.4, $10.4 and $4.4 from affiliates).................... $2,071.1 $2,156.6 $1,984.5 -------- -------- --------
OPERATING EXPENSES Employee costs, including benefits and taxes....................................... 327.2 362.8 388.2 Depreciation and amortization................ 458.9 420.1 412.1 Taxes other than income...................... 57.8 57.8 55.7 Other (including $508.0, $519.7 and $423.4 to affiliates)................... 711.2 755.1 617.7 -------- -------- -------- 1,555.1 1,595.8 1,473.7 -------- -------- --------
OPERATING INCOME............................... 516.0 560.8 510.8
OTHER INCOME, NET (including $.1, $.5 and $0 from affiliate)....................... 2.1 1.9 1.4
INTEREST EXPENSE (including $3.0, $1.5 and $5.7 to affiliate)....................... 66.0 62.9 75.3 -------- -------- --------
Income Before Provision for Income Taxes and Cumulative Effect of Change in Accounting Principle................................... 452.1 499.8 436.9 PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES..................... 172.2 189.1 164.4 -------- -------- -------- Income Before Cumulative Effect of Change in Accounting Principle...................... 279.9 310.7 272.5
CUMULATIVE EFFECT OF CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLE Directory Publishing, Net of Tax............. --- 16.4 --- -------- -------- --------
NET INCOME..................................... $ 279.9 $ 327.1 $ 272.5 ======== ======== ========
REINVESTED EARNINGS At beginning of year......................... $ 204.8 $ 166.1 $ 153.1 Add: net income............................. 279.9 327.1 272.5 -------- -------- -------- 484.7 493.2 425.6 Deduct: dividends........................... 331.6 288.2 259.3 other changes....................... 13.1 .2 .2 -------- -------- -------- At end of year............................... $ 140.0 $ 204.8 $ 166.1 ======== ======== ========
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
BALANCE SHEETS (Dollars in Millions)
ASSETS ------
December 31 ------------------ 1997 1996 -------- -------- CURRENT ASSETS Short-term investments............................. $ 26.0 $ 32.7 Accounts receivable: Trade and other, net of allowances for uncollectibles of $27.6 and $30.8............... 436.5 464.9 Affiliates....................................... 29.6 32.4 Material and supplies.............................. 15.5 9.9 Prepaid expenses................................... 8.9 45.2 Deferred income taxes.............................. 3.4 --- Other.............................................. .2 .2 -------- -------- 520.1 585.3 -------- --------
PLANT, PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT...................... 5,957.0 5,636.8 Less accumulated depreciation...................... 3,265.8 2,970.1 -------- -------- 2,691.2 2,666.7 -------- --------
OTHER ASSETS....................................... 70.5 45.7 -------- --------
TOTAL ASSETS....................................... $3,281.8 $3,297.7 ======== ========
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
BALANCE SHEETS (Dollars in Millions)
LIABILITIES AND SHAREOWNER'S INVESTMENT ---------------------------------------
December 31 ------------------ 1997 1996 -------- -------- CURRENT LIABILITIES Debt maturing within one year: Note payable to affiliate.................... $ 110.7 $ 52.7 Other........................................ 1.3 1.0 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities: Affiliates................................... 226.1 232.5 Other........................................ 343.8 316.5 Other liabilities.............................. 61.8 67.1 -------- -------- 743.7 669.8 -------- --------
LONG-TERM DEBT................................. 945.7 946.0 -------- --------
EMPLOYEE BENEFIT OBLIGATIONS................... 384.0 410.7 -------- --------
DEFERRED CREDITS AND OTHER LIABILITIES Deferred income taxes.......................... 107.9 108.0 Unamortized investment tax credits............. 17.1 20.4 Other.......................................... 69.7 64.3 -------- -------- 194.7 192.7 -------- -------- COMMITMENTS (Note 6)
SHAREOWNER'S INVESTMENT Common stock - one share, without par value, owned by parent................... 873.7 873.7 Reinvested earnings............................ 140.0 204.8 -------- -------- 1,013.7 1,078.5 -------- --------
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREOWNER'S INVESTMENT.. $3,281.8 $3,297.7 ======== ========
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS For the Years Ended December 31 (Dollars in Millions)
1997 1996 1995 ------ ------ ------
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net income....................................... $279.9 $327.1 $272.5 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation and amortization................. 458.9 420.1 412.1 Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle, net of tax...................... --- (16.4) --- Deferred income taxes, net.................... (3.3) 17.5 (25.6) Investment tax credits........................ (3.3) (4.4) (4.9) Other items, net.............................. (.4) (.1) (1.1) Changes in certain assets and liabilities: Accounts receivable........................ 31.2 (37.3) (42.4) Material and supplies...................... (5.6) (.8) (3.2) Other assets............................... 10.6 (14.9) 31.5 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities... 11.9 28.6 41.9 Employee benefit obligations............... (26.7) (1.3) 5.3 Other liabilities.......................... 8.5 6.4 (3.6) ------ ------ ------ Net cash provided by operating activities........ 761.7 724.5 682.5 ------ ------ ------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Purchases of short-term investments.............. (40.6) (45.8) (16.9) Proceeds from sale of short-term investments..... 47.3 13.2 16.9 Additions to plant, property and equipment....... (498.7) (436.4) (457.7) Other, net....................................... 15.0 13.5 (2.5) ------ ------ ------ Net cash used in investing activities............ (477.0) (455.5) (460.2) ------ ------ ------
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES Principal repayments of capital lease obligations (1.0) (2.0) (.8) Net change in note payable to affiliate.......... 58.0 (.9) 33.8 Dividends paid................................... (331.6) (288.2) (259.3) Net change in outstanding checks drawn on controlled disbursement accounts............. (10.1) 22.1 4.0 ------ ------ ------ Net cash used in financing activities............ (284.7) (269.0) (222.3) ------ ------ ------
NET CHANGE IN CASH............................... --- --- ---
CASH, BEGINNING OF YEAR.......................... --- --- --- ------ ------ ------
CASH, END OF YEAR................................ $ --- $ --- $ --- ====== ====== ======
See Notes to Financial Statements.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Description of Business
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc. (the Company) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bell Atlantic Corporation (Bell Atlantic). The Company operates in a single industry segment - communications and related services. The Company provides two basic types of telecommunications services in a territory consisting of five complete Local Access and Transport Areas (LATAs) and part of a sixth LATA in the state of Virginia. First, the Company transports telecommunications traffic between subscribers located within the same LATA (intraLATA service), including both local and long distance services. Local service includes the provision of local exchange, local private line and public telephone services. Long distance service includes message toll service and intraLATA Wide Area Toll Service/800 services. Second, the Company provides exchange access service, which links a subscriber's telephone equipment to the facilities of an interexchange carrier which, in turn, provides telecommunications service between LATAs (interLATA service) to their customers. The Company also provides exchange access service to carriers which provide intrastate intraLATA long distance telecommunications service. Other services provided by the Company include customer premises wiring and maintenance and billing and collection services. Effective January 1, 1997, the Company transferred certain assets and liabilities associated with its directory publishing activities to a newly formed, wholly owned subsidiary (see Note 4).
The telecommunications industry is undergoing substantial changes as a result of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, other public policy changes and technological advances. These changes are likely to bring increased competitive pressures, but will also open new markets to Bell Atlantic, such as long distance services within its geographic region, upon completion of certain requirements of the Telecommunications Act.
Basis of Presentation
On August 14, 1997, Bell Atlantic and NYNEX Corporation (NYNEX) completed a merger, which was accounted for as a pooling of interests. The financial statements include certain reclassifications in presentation and certain retroactive adjustments to conform accounting methodologies as a result of the merger (see Note 2).
The Company prepares its financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles which require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts or certain disclosures. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes revenues when services are rendered based on usage of its local exchange network and facilities.
Maintenance and Repairs
The Company charges the cost of maintenance and repairs, including the cost of replacing minor items not constituting substantial betterments, to Operating Expenses.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company considers all highly liquid investments with a maturity of 90 days or less when purchased to be cash equivalents, except cash equivalents held as short-term investments. Cash equivalents are stated at cost, which approximates market value.
Short-term Investments
Short-term investments consist of cash equivalents held in trust to pay for certain employee benefits. Short-term investments are stated at cost, which approximates market value.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
Material and Supplies
New and reusable materials are carried in inventory, principally at average original cost, except that specific costs are used in the case of large individual items.
Plant and Depreciation
The Company states plant, property, and equipment at cost. Depreciation expense is principally based on the composite group remaining life method and straight-line composite rates. This method provides for the recognition of the cost of the remaining net investment in telephone plant, less anticipated net salvage value, over the remaining asset lives. This method requires the periodic revision of depreciation rates. The Company used the following asset lives:
Average Lives (in years) -------------------------------------------------------
Buildings............................... 27 - 40 Central office equipment................ 5 - 12 Cable, wiring and conduit............... 16 - 50 Other equipment......................... 5 - 30
When depreciable plant is replaced or retired, the carrying amount of such plant is deducted from the respective accounts and charged to accumulated depreciation. Gains or losses on disposition are amortized with the remaining net investment in telephone plant.
Computer Software Costs
The Company capitalizes initial right-to-use fees for central office switching equipment, including initial operating system and initial application software costs. For noncentral office equipment, only the initial operating system software is capitalized. Subsequent additions, modifications, or upgrades of initial software programs, whether operating or application packages, are expensed as incurred.
Capitalization of Interest Costs
The Company capitalizes interest associated with the acquisition or construction of plant assets. Capitalized interest is reported as a cost of plant and a reduction in interest cost.
Income Taxes
Bell Atlantic and its domestic subsidiaries, including the Company, file a consolidated federal income tax return.
The consolidated amount of current and deferred tax expense is allocated by applying the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes" to each subsidiary as if it were a separate taxpayer.
The Company uses the deferral method of accounting for investment tax credits earned prior to repeal of investment tax credits by the Tax Reform Act of 1986. The Company also defers certain transitional credits earned after the repeal. These credits are being amortized as a reduction to the Provision for Income Taxes over the estimated service lives of the related assets.
Advertising Costs
Advertising costs are expensed as incurred.
Stock-Based Compensation
The Company participates in stock-based compensation plans sponsored by Bell Atlantic. Bell Atlantic accounts for stock-based employee compensation plans under Accounting Principles Board (APB) Opinion No. 25, "Accounting
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
for Stock Issued to Employees," and related interpretations. Effective January 1, 1996, Bell Atlantic adopted the disclosure-only provisions of SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation" (see Note 10).
2. BELL ATLANTIC - NYNEX MERGER
On August 14, 1997, Bell Atlantic and NYNEX completed a merger of equals under a definitive merger agreement entered into on April 21, 1996 and amended on July 2, 1996. The stockholders of each company approved the merger at special meetings held in November 1996. Under the terms of the amended agreement, NYNEX became a wholly owned subsidiary of Bell Atlantic. The merger has been accounted for as a pooling of interests.
As a result of conforming the accounting methodologies of Bell Atlantic and NYNEX, the Company has recorded an after-tax charge of $3.6 million to reinvested earnings as if the merger had occurred as of the beginning of the earliest period presented.
Merger-Related Costs Results of operations for 1997 include merger-related pre-tax costs of approximately $3 million for direct incremental costs and $11 million for employee severance costs. These costs include approximately $10 million representing the Company's allocated share of merger-related costs from Bell Atlantic Network Services, Inc. (NSI), an affiliate which provides centralized services on a contract basis. Costs allocated from NSI are included in Other Operating Expenses.
Direct incremental costs consist of expenses associated with compensation arrangements related to completing the merger transaction. Employee severance costs, as recorded under SFAS No. 112, "Employers' Accounting for Postemployment Benefits," represent the Company's proportionate share of benefit costs for the separation by the end of 1999 of management employees who are entitled to benefits under pre-existing Bell Atlantic separation pay plans.
3. CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLE - DIRECTORY PUBLISHING
Effective January 1, 1996, the Company changed its method of accounting for directory publishing revenues and expenses from the amortized method to the point-of-publication method. Under the point-of-publication method, revenues and expenses are recognized when the directories are published rather than over the lives of the directories, as under the amortized method. The Company believes the point-of-publication method is preferable because it is the method generally followed by publishing companies.
This accounting change resulted in a one-time, noncash increase in net income of $16.4 million (net of income tax of $10.5 million), which is reported as a cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle at January 1, 1996. On an annual basis, the financial impact of applying this method in 1996 was not significant, and it would not have been significant had it been applied in 1995.
4. DIRECTORY PUBLISHING ACTIVITIES
On January 1, 1997, the Company transferred, at net book value without gain or loss, certain assets and liabilities associated with its directory publishing activities to a newly formed, wholly owned subsidiary. The stock of the subsidiary was immediately distributed to Bell Atlantic. The transfer of such assets and liabilities was completed as part of Bell Atlantic and the Company's response to the requirements of the Telecommunications of Act of 1996, which prohibits the Company from engaging in electronic publishing or joint sales and marketing of electronic products.
Net assets transferred by the Company totaled approximately $13 million, and consisted of deferred directory production costs (included in prepaid expenses), fixed assets, and related deferred tax liabilities.
Revenues related to the Company's directory publishing activities transferred were approximately $186 million and $164 million for the years ended December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively. Direct expenses related to the directory publishing activities transferred were approximately $75 million and $64 million for the years ended December 31, 1996
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
and 1995, respectively. The Company does not separately identify indirect expenses attributable to the directory publishing activities, including expenses related to billing and data management and processing services, legal, external affairs, depreciation, interest expense and any corresponding tax expense.
5. PLANT, PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Plant, property and equipment, which is stated at cost, is summarized as follows at December 31:
1997 1996 --------- --------- (Dollars in Millions)
Land....................................... $ 21.8 $ 21.8 Buildings.................................. 373.4 357.1 Central office equipment................... 2,634.1 2,411.2 Cable, wiring and conduit.................. 2,331.9 2,235.7 Other equipment............................ 457.4 488.7 Other...................................... 49.5 43.8 Construction-in-progress................... 88.9 78.5 --------- --------- 5,957.0 5,636.8 Accumulated depreciation................... (3,265.8) (2,970.1) --------- --------- Total...................................... $ 2,691.2 $ 2,666.7 ========= =========
6. LEASES
The Company leases certain facilities and equipment for use in its operations under both capital and operating leases. Plant, property and equipment included capital leases of $21.1 million and $20.2 million, and related accumulated amortization of $7.4 million and $6.0 million at December 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively. The Company incurred initial capital lease obligations of $1.0 million in 1997, $.1 million in 1996 and $13.2 million in 1995.
Total rent expense amounted to $54.5 million in 1997, $45.1 million in 1996 and $43.5 million in 1995. Of these amounts, $44.7 million, $36.4 million and $35.7 million in 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively, were lease payments to affiliated companies.
At December 31, 1997, the aggregate minimum rental commitments under noncancelable leases for the periods shown are as follows:
Years Capital Leases Operating Leases ----- -------------- ---------------- (Dollars in Millions)
1998....................................... $ 3.5 $ 3.4 1999....................................... 3.3 3.1 2000....................................... 3.3 2.3 2001....................................... 4.2 1.8 2002....................................... 2.7 .9 Thereafter................................. 16.0 4.3 ----- ----- Total minimum rental commitments........... 33.0 $15.8 =====
Less interest and executory costs..................................... 16.1 ----- Present value of minimum lease payments............................ 16.9 Less current installments.................. 1.3 ----- Long-term obligation at December 31, 1997......................... $15.6 =====
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
7. DEBT
Debt Maturing Within One Year
Debt maturing within one year consists of the following at December 31:
1997 1996 ------ ----- (Dollars in Millions)
Note payable to affiliate (BANFC)................... $110.7 $52.7 Long-term debt maturing within one year............. 1.3 1.0 ------ ----- Total debt maturing within one year................. $112.0 $53.7 ====== =====
Weighted average interest rate for note payable outstanding at year-end............................ 5.8% 5.5% ====== =====
The Company has a contractual agreement with an affiliated company, Bell Atlantic Network Funding Corporation (BANFC), for the provision of short-term financing and cash management services. BANFC issues commercial paper and obtains bank loans to fund the working capital requirements of Bell Atlantic's network services subsidiaries, including the Company, and invests funds in temporary investments on their behalf. At December 31, 1997, the Company had $89.3 million of an unused line of credit with BANFC.
Long-Term Debt
Long-term debt consists principally of debentures issued by the Company. Interest rates and maturities of the amounts outstanding are as follows at December 31: 1997 1996 ------ ------ (Dollars in Millions)
Ten year 7 1/8%, due 2002........................... $100.0 $100.0 Thirty-nine year 5 1/4%, due 2005................... 50.0 50.0 Twelve year 6 1/8%, due 2005........................ 100.0 100.0 Forty year 5 5/8%, due 2007......................... 65.0 65.0 Forty year 6 3/4%, due 2008......................... 70.0 70.0 Twenty year 7 5/8%, due 2012........................ 100.0 100.0 Forty year 7 1/4%, due 2012......................... 50.0 50.0 Thirty year 7 7/8%, due 2022........................ 100.0 100.0 Thirty-one year 7 1/4%, due 2024.................... 75.0 75.0 Thirty-two year 7%, due 2025........................ 125.0 125.0 Forty year 8 3/8%, due 2029......................... 100.0 100.0 ------ ------ 935.0 935.0
Unamortized discount and premium, net............... (4.9) (5.1) Capital lease obligations - average rate 9.3% and 8.8%...................................... 16.9 17.1 ------ ------ Total long-term debt, including current maturities.. 947.0 947.0 Less maturing within one year....................... 1.3 1.0 ------ ------ Total long-term debt................................ $945.7 $946.0 ====== ======
Long-term debt outstanding at December 31, 1997 includes $235.0 million that is callable by the Company. The call prices range from 101.75% to 100.57% of face value, depending upon the remaining term to maturity of the issue. In addition, $100.0 million of long-term debt, bearing interest at 8 3/8%, will become redeemable only on October 1, 1999 at the option of the holders. The redemption price will be 100.0% of face value plus accrued interest.
At December 31, 1997, the Company had $100.0 million remaining under a shelf registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for issuance of unsecured debt securities.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
8. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Concentrations of Credit Risk
Financial instruments that subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of short-term investments and trade receivables.
Concentrations of credit risk with respect to trade receivables other than those from AT&T are limited due to the large number of customers. For the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, revenues generated from services provided to AT&T (primarily network access and billing and collection) were $194.7 million, $199.0 million and $224.3 million, respectively.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The table below provides additional information about the Company's material financial instruments at December 31, 1997:
Financial Instrument Valuation Method ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Note payable to affiliate (BANFC) Carrying amounts and short-term investments
Debt (excluding capital leases) Market quotes for similar terms and maturities or future cash flows discounted at current rates
1997 1996 ------------------ ------------------- Carrying Fair Carrying Fair Amount Value Amount Value -------- -------- --------- -------- (Dollars in Millions)
Debt...................... $1,040.8 $1,088.7 $ 982.6 $980.1
9. SHAREOWNER'S INVESTMENT
Common Reinvested (Dollars in Thousands) Stock Earnings --------------------------- -------- ----------
Balance at December 31, 1994, as reported............. $ 873.7 $ 156.7 Adjustment for conforming accounting methodologies................ (3.6) -------- -------- Balance at December 31, 1994, restated................ 873.7 153.1
Net income..................... 272.5 Dividends paid to Bell Atlantic...................... (259.3) Other.......................... (.2) -------- -------- Balance at December 31, 1995.......................... 873.7 166.1
Net income..................... 327.1 Dividends paid to Bell Atlantic...................... (288.2) Other.......................... (.2) -------- -------- Balance at December 31, 1996.......................... 873.7 204.8
Net income..................... 279.9 Dividends paid to Bell Atlantic...................... (331.6) Other.......................... (13.1) -------- -------- Balance at December 31, 1997.......................... $ 873.7 $ 140.0 ======== ========
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
As a result of conforming the accounting methodologies of Bell Atlantic and NYNEX, the Company has recorded an after-tax charge of $3.6 million to Reinvested Earnings as if the merger had occurred as of the beginning of the earliest period presented.
10. STOCK INCENTIVE PLANS
The Company participates in stock-based compensation plans sponsored by Bell Atlantic. Bell Atlantic applies APB Opinion No. 25 and related interpretations in accounting for the plans. Effective January 1, 1996, Bell Atlantic adopted the disclosure-only provisions of SFAS No. 123. If Bell Atlantic had elected to recognize compensation expense based on the fair value at the grant dates for 1995 and subsequent awards consistent with the provisions of SFAS No. 123, the Company's pro forma net income for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 would have been $277.2 million, $324.6 million and $270.5 million, respectively, compared to as reported net income of $279.9 million, $327.1 million and $272.5 million for the corresponding years. These results may not be representative of the effects on pro forma net income for future years.
The pro forma net income amounts were determined using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model based on the following weighted-average assumptions:
1997 1996 1995 ------ ------ ------
Dividend yield................. 4.86% 4.90% 5.10% Expected volatility............ 14.87% 14.70% 15.90% Risk-free interest rate........ 6.35% 5.40% 7.60% Expected lives (in years)...... 5 4.5 4.5
The weighted average value of options granted was $8.60 per option during 1997, $7.23 per option during 1996 and $7.46 per option during 1995.
11. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
The Company participates in the Bell Atlantic benefit plans. In 1997, following the completion of the merger, Bell Atlantic continued to maintain separate benefit plans for employees of the former NYNEX companies. The assets of the Bell Atlantic and NYNEX pension and savings plans have been commingled in a master trust. The actuarial assumptions used are based on financial market interest rates, past experience, and management's best estimate of future benefit changes and economic conditions. Changes in these assumptions may impact future benefit costs and obligations.
Effective January 1, 1998, Bell Atlantic established common pension and savings plans benefit provisions for all management employees. As a result, continuing NYNEX management employees will receive the same benefit levels as previously given under Bell Atlantic management plans. Pension and other postretirement benefits for associate employees are subject to collective bargaining agreements, and no changes were bargained in 1997. Modifications in associate benefits have been bargained from time to time, and Bell Atlantic may also periodically amend the benefits in the management plans. Substantive commitments for future amendments are reflected in the pension costs and benefit obligations.
The structure of Bell Atlantic's benefit plans does not provide for the determination of certain disclosures required by SFAS No. 87, "Employers' Accounting for Pensions" and SFAS No. 106, "Employers' Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions". The required information is provided on a consolidated basis in Bell Atlantic's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1997, which shows combined results and weighted- average assumptions. The Company's benefit costs and obligations for 1997, 1996 and 1995 were based on the historic benefit plans and actuarial assumptions as shown in the tables below.
Pension Plans
Bell Atlantic sponsors noncontributory defined benefit pension plans covering substantially all of its management and associate employees. Benefits for associate employees are determined by a flat dollar amount per year of service according to job classification. Effective December 31, 1995, the plan covering management employees was converted to
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
a cash balance plan with benefits determined by compensation credits related to age and service and interest credits based on individual account balances. The management pension benefit for prior years was based on a stated percentage of adjusted career average earnings.
Under the cash balance plan, each management employee's opening account balance was determined by converting the accrued pension benefit as of December 31, 1995 to a lump-sum amount based on the prior plan's provisions. The lump- sum value was then multiplied by a transition factor based on age and service to arrive at the opening balance.
Bell Atlantic's objective in funding the plans is to accumulate funds at a relatively stable level over participants' working lives so that benefits are fully funded at retirement. Plan assets consist principally of investments in domestic and foreign corporate equity securities, U.S. and foreign government and corporate debt securities, and real estate.
Pension (benefit) cost was $(16.6) million, $4.5 million and $4.1 million for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. The change in pension cost from year to year was caused by a number of variables, including changes in actuarial assumptions (see table below), favorable returns on plan assets and plan amendments.
The significant assumptions used for the pension measurements were as follows at December 31:
1997 1996 1995 ------ ------ ------
Discount rate.................................... 7.25% 7.75% 7.25% Rate of future increases in compensation levels Management - through 2000...................... 3.00 4.75 4.75 Management - thereafter........................ 4.50 4.75 4.75 Associate...................................... 4.00 4.75 4.75
The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets was 8.90 % for 1997 and 8.25% for 1996 and 1995.
Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions
Bell Atlantic's postretirement health and life insurance benefit plans cover substantially all of the Company's management and associate employees. Postretirement health benefit costs are based on comprehensive medical and dental plan provisions. Postretirement life insurance costs are based on annual basic pay at retirement.
In 1996, Bell Atlantic restructured certain postretirement health and life insurance obligations and assets to create a single plan. The remaining postretirement benefits continue to be provided by separate plans. The restructure did not affect plan benefits or postretirement benefit costs or obligations.
Bell Atlantic funds the postretirement health and life insurance benefits of current and future retirees. Plan assets consist principally of investments in domestic and foreign corporate equity securities, and U.S. Government and corporate debt securities.
Postretirement benefit cost was $13.8 million, $23.2 million and $28.4 million for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. The change in postretirement benefit cost from year to year was caused by a number of variables, including changes in actuarial assumptions (see table below), changes in plan provisions, favorable medical claims experience and favorable returns on plan assets.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
Assumptions used in the actuarial computations for postretirement benefits are as follows at December 31:
1997 1996 1995 ------ ------ ------
Discount rate..................................... 7.25% 7.75% 7.25% Rate of future increases in compensation levels Management - through 2000....................... 3.00 4.75 4.75 Management - thereafter......................... 4.50 4.75 4.75 Associate....................................... 4.00 4.75 4.75 Medical cost trend rate: Year ending..................................... 6.50 7.00 10.00 Ultimate (year 2001 for 1997 and 1996, 2003 for 1995)................................ 5.00 5.00 5.00 Dental cost trend rate: Year ending..................................... 3.50 4.00 4.00 Ultimate (year 2002)............................ 3.00 -- --
The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets was 8.90% for 1997 and 8.25% for 1996 and 1995.
Savings Plans and Employee Stock Ownership Plans
Substantially all of the Company's employees are eligible to participate in savings plans established by Bell Atlantic to provide opportunities for eligible employees to save for retirement on a tax-deferred basis and encourage employees to acquire and maintain an equity interest in Bell Atlantic. Under these plans, a certain percentage of eligible employee contributions are matched with shares of Bell Atlantic common stock. The Company matches employee contributions through two leveraged employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) maintained by Bell Atlantic. Bell Atlantic recognizes leveraged ESOP cost based on the modified shares allocated method for the leveraged ESOP trusts that held securities before December 15, 1989. The Company recognizes its proportionate share of total ESOP cost based on the Company's matching obligation attributable to participating Company employees. The Company recorded total ESOP cost of $6.5 million, $6.7 million and $7.9 million in 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively.
12. INCOME TAXES
The components of income tax expense are as follows:
Years Ended December 31 -------------------------- 1997 1996 1995 -------- ------- ------- (Dollars in Millions)
Current: Federal....................................... $151.7 $151.2 $168.9 State and local............................... 27.1 24.8 26.0 ------ ------ ------ Total......................................... 178.8 176.0 194.9 ------ ------ ------
Deferred: Federal....................................... (3.2) 15.1 (21.9) State and local............................... (.1) 2.4 (3.7) ------ ------ ------ Total......................................... (3.3) 17.5 (25.6) ------ ------ ------ 175.5 193.5 169.3 Investment tax credits........................... (3.3) (4.4) (4.9) ------ ------ ------ Total income tax expense......................... $172.2 $189.1 $164.4 ====== ====== ======
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
The provision for income taxes varies from the amount computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate to income before provision for income taxes. The difference is attributable to the following factors:
Years Ended December 31 ------------------------- 1997 1996 1995 ------ ------ ------
Statutory federal income tax rate................ 35.0% 35.0% 35.0% Investment tax credits........................... (.5) (.6) (.7) State income taxes, net of federal tax benefits.. 3.9 3.5 3.3 Other, net....................................... (.3) (.1) -- ---- ---- ---- Effective income tax rate........................ 38.1% 37.8% 37.6% ==== ==== ====
Deferred taxes arise because of differences in the book and tax bases of certain assets and liabilities. Significant components of deferred tax liabilities (assets) were as follows at December 31:
1997 1996 ------- ------- (Dollars in Millions) Deferred tax liabilities: Depreciation................................... $ 351.7 $ 359.1 Other.......................................... 4.2 11.1 ------- ------- 355.9 370.2 ------- ------- Deferred tax assets: Employee benefits.............................. (212.3) (219.9) Investment tax credits......................... (6.6) (7.9) Advance payments............................... (.3) (.8) Other.......................................... (32.2) (25.8) ------- ------- (251.4) (254.4) ------- ------- Net deferred tax liability....................... $ 104.5 $ 115.8 ======= =======
Deferred tax assets include approximately $172.1 million and $169.9 million at December 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively, related to postretirement benefit costs recognized under SFAS No. 106. This deferred tax asset will gradually be realized over the estimated lives of current retirees and employees.
13. ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL INFORMATION
December 31 --------------------- 1997 1996 ------ ------ (Dollars in Millions) BALANCE SHEETS: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities: Accounts payable - affiliates.................. $225.6 $232.4 Accounts payable - other....................... 264.4 235.3 Accrued expenses............................... 27.0 30.1 Accrued vacation pay........................... 28.5 27.9 Accrued taxes.................................. 3.6 2.8 Interest payable - other....................... 20.3 20.4 Interest payable - affiliate................... .5 .1 ------ ------ $569.9 $549.0 ====== ======
Other current liabilities: Advance billings and customer deposits......... $ 61.8 $ 59.4 Deferred income taxes.......................... --- 7.7 ------ ------ $ 61.8 $ 67.1 ====== ======
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
Years Ended December 31 ----------------------- 1997 1996 1995 ------ ------ ------ (Dollars in Millions) STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS: Cash paid during the year for: Income taxes, net of amounts refunded..... $167.7 $191.5 $188.6 Interest, net of amounts capitalized...... 65.3 64.6 59.6
STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND REINVESTED EARNINGS: Interest expense incurred, net of amounts capitalized................ 66.0 62.9 75.3 Capitalized interest........................ 5.5 5.3 7.4 Advertising expense......................... 10.2 14.2 13.2
Interest paid during the year includes $2.6 million in 1997, $1.6 million in 1996 and $4.8 million in 1995 related to short-term financing services provided by Bell Atlantic Network Funding Corporation (see Note 7).
Advertising expense includes $10.0 million, $11.5 million and $10.4 million in 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively, allocated to the Company by Bell Atlantic Network Services, Inc. (NSI).
At December 31, 1997 and 1996, $24.3 million and $34.4 million, respectively, of bank overdrafts were classified as accounts payable.
14. TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
The financial statements include transactions with NSI, Bell Atlantic Network Funding Corporation (BANFC), Bell Atlantic, and various other affiliates.
The Company has contractual arrangements with NSI for the provision of various centralized services. These services are divided into two broad categories. The first category is comprised of network related services which generally benefit only Bell Atlantic's operating telephone subsidiaries. These services include administration, marketing, product advertising, sales, information systems, network technology planning, labor relations, and staff support for various network operations. The second category is comprised of overhead and support services which generally benefit all subsidiaries of Bell Atlantic. Such services include corporate governance and staff support in finance, external affairs, legal and corporate secretary, media relations, employee communications, corporate advertising, human resources, and treasury. The Company's allocated share of NSI costs also includes costs for technical and support services billed by Bell Communications Research, Inc. (Bellcore), another affiliated company which was owned jointly by the seven regional holding companies. In 1997, Bell Atlantic and the other Bellcore owners sold their jointly owned investment in Bellcore. The Company will continue to contract with Bellcore for technical and support services.
The Company recognizes interest expense and income in connection with contractual arrangements with BANFC to provide short-term financing, investing and cash management services to the Company (see Note 7).
Operating revenues include obligations to affiliates in connection with an interstate revenue sharing arrangement with Bell Atlantic's operating telephone subsidiaries. Other operating revenues and expenses include miscellaneous items of income and expense resulting from transactions with other affiliates, primarily rental of facilities and equipment. The Company also paid cash dividends to its parent company, Bell Atlantic.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
Transactions with affiliates are summarized as follows:
Years Ended December 31 -------------------------- 1997 1996 1995 -------- ------- ------- (Dollars in Millions) Operating revenues: Interstate revenue sharing to affiliates.. $(25.5) $(25.5) $(20.0) Other revenue from affiliates............. 29.9 35.9 24.4 ------ ------ ------ 4.4 10.4 4.4 ------ ------ ------
Operating expenses: NSI - network............................. 273.3 276.8 216.1 NSI - other............................... 143.0 139.4 123.8 Bellcore.................................. 19.8 17.6 16.8 Other..................................... 71.9 85.9 66.7 ----- ----- ----- 508.0 519.7 423.4 ----- ----- -----
Interest income from BANFC.................. .1 .5 ---
Interest expense to BANFC................... 3.0 1.5 5.7
Dividends paid to Bell Atlantic............. 331.6 288.2 259.3
Outstanding balances with affiliates are reported on the balance sheets at December 31, 1997 and 1996 as Accounts Receivable - Affiliates, Note Payable to Affiliate, and Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities - Affiliates.
15. REGULATORY MATTERS
The communications services of the Company are subject to regulation by the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) with respect to intrastate rates and services and other matters.
Effective in 1995, the SCC approved an optional regulatory plan that regulates the Company's noncompetitive services on a price cap basis and does not regulate the Company's competitive services. The plan includes a moratorium on rate increases for basic local telephone service until 2001 and eliminates regulation of profits.
Prior to 1995, the SCC annually reviewed the Company's earnings on noncompetitive services. On June 11, 1996, the SCC ordered the Company to refund to customers $10.2 million plus interest for the 1992 review period. Upon completion of this refund to customers in 1996, the Company's rates are final for all years prior to 1995.
16. LITIGATION AND OTHER CONTINGENCIES
Various legal actions and regulatory proceedings are pending to which the Company is a party. The Company has established reserves for liabilities in connection with regulatory and legal matters which it currently deems to be probable and estimable. The Company does not expect that the ultimate resolution of these matters in future periods will have a material effect on the Company's financial position, but it could have a material effect on results of operations.
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
17. QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (unaudited)
Income Before Cumulative Effect of Change Operating Operating in Accounting Net Quarter Ended Revenues Income Principle Income - ------------- --------- --------- ---------------- ------ (Dollars in Thousands)
1997: March 31............ $512.6 $138.2 $75.3 $ 75.3 June 30............. 520.5 134.5 75.2 75.2 September 30........ 509.8 89.9 45.1 45.1 December 31......... 528.2 153.4 84.3 84.3 ------ ------ ------ ------ Total............... $2,071.1 $516.0 $279.9 $279.9 ======== ====== ====== ======
1996: March 31............ $ 558.6 $168.9 $ 94.9 $111.4 June 30............. 517.9 131.9 72.8 72.8 September 30........ 545.6 135.2 74.3 74.3 December 31......... 534.4 124.8 68.7 68.6 -------- ------ ------ ------ Total............... $2,156.5 $560.8 $310.7 $327.1 ======== ====== ====== ======
*Results of operations for the third quarter of 1997 include merger-related costs (see Note 2).
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS For the Years Ended December 31, 1997, 1995 and 1995 (Dollars in Thousands)
- ------------------------------------------
(a) (i) Amounts previously written off which were credited directly to this account when recovered; and (ii) accruals charged to accounts payable for anticipated uncollectible charges on purchases of accounts receivable from others which were billed by the Company.
(b) Amounts written off as uncollectible.
EXHIBITS
FILED WITH ANNUAL REPORT FORM 10-K
UNDER THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997
Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc.
COMMISSION FILE NUMBER 1-6964
Form 10-K for 1997 File No. 1-6964 Page 1 of 1
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibits identified in parentheses below, on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), are incorporated herein by reference as exhibits hereto.
Exhibit Number (Referenced to Item 601 of Regulation S-K) - ---------------------------------------------------------
3a Certificate of Incorporation of the registrant, as amended July 28, 1977. (Exhibit 3a to the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1985, File No. 1-6964.)
3a(i) Certificate of Amendment to the registrant's Certificate of Incorporation, as amended August 24, 1990. (Exhibit 3a(i) to the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1990, File No. 1-6964.)
3a(ii) Certificate of Amendment to the registrant's Certificate of Incorporation, adopted December 31, 1993 and filed January 13, 1994. (Exhibit 3a(ii) to the registrant's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1993, File No. 1-6964.)
3b By-Laws of the registrant, as amended December 31, 1996.
3b(i) Consent of Sole Stockholder of Bell Atlantic - Virginia, Inc., dated December 31, 1996.
4 No instrument which defines the rights of holders of long-term debt of the registrant is filed herewith pursuant to Regulation S-K, Item 601(b)(4)(iii)(A). Pursuant to this regulation, the registrant hereby agrees to furnish a copy of any such instrument to the SEC upon request.
10a Agreement among Bell Atlantic Network Services, Inc. and the Bell Atlantic Corporation telephone subsidiaries, dated November 7, 1983. (Exhibit 10b to Bell Atlantic Corporation Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1993, File No. 1-8606.)
23 Consent of Independent Accountants.
27.1 Financial Data Schedule - 1997.
27.2 Restated Financial Data Schedule - 1996.
27.3 Restated Financial Data Schedule - 1995.