-----BEGIN PRIVACY-ENHANCED MESSAGE----- Proc-Type: 2001,MIC-CLEAR Originator-Name: webmaster@www.sec.gov Originator-Key-Asymmetric: MFgwCgYEVQgBAQICAf8DSgAwRwJAW2sNKK9AVtBzYZmr6aGjlWyK3XmZv3dTINen TWSM7vrzLADbmYQaionwg5sDW3P6oaM5D3tdezXMm7z1T+B+twIDAQAB MIC-Info: RSA-MD5,RSA, VYP8TE0MMkF5g//J95zGF7de9M6nHZBZeb0dRE2PnBgK2X59epysDA4KV0ftezl0 jDrritzIn0WlVWJ4sBAKKA== 0001311835-07-000009.txt : 20071207 0001311835-07-000009.hdr.sgml : 20071207 20071207130442 ACCESSION NUMBER: 0001311835-07-000009 CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE: 10-K PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT: 9 CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT: 20070825 FILED AS OF DATE: 20071207 DATE AS OF CHANGE: 20071207 FILER: COMPANY DATA: COMPANY CONFORMED NAME: American Achievement Group Holding Corp. CENTRAL INDEX KEY: 0001373768 STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION: WHOLESALE-JEWELRY, WATCHES, PRECIOUS STONES & METALS [5094] IRS NUMBER: 204833998 STATE OF INCORPORATION: DE FISCAL YEAR END: 0826 FILING VALUES: FORM TYPE: 10-K SEC ACT: 1934 Act SEC FILE NUMBER: 333-137067 FILM NUMBER: 071291834 BUSINESS ADDRESS: STREET 1: 7211 CIRCLE S ROAD CITY: AUSTIN STATE: TX ZIP: 78745 BUSINESS PHONE: 512-444-0571 MAIL ADDRESS: STREET 1: 7211 CIRCLE S ROAD CITY: AUSTIN STATE: TX ZIP: 78745 FILER: COMPANY DATA: COMPANY CONFORMED NAME: AAC Group Holding Corp. CENTRAL INDEX KEY: 0001311835 STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION: JEWELRY, PRECIOUS METAL [3911] IRS NUMBER: 201854833 STATE OF INCORPORATION: DE FISCAL YEAR END: 0831 FILING VALUES: FORM TYPE: 10-K SEC ACT: 1934 Act SEC FILE NUMBER: 333-121479 FILM NUMBER: 071291835 BUSINESS ADDRESS: STREET 1: C/O AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION STREET 2: 7211 CIRCLE S ROAD CITY: AUSTIN STATE: TX ZIP: 78745 BUSINESS PHONE: (512) 444-0571 MAIL ADDRESS: STREET 1: C/O AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION STREET 2: 7211 CIRCLE S ROAD CITY: AUSTIN STATE: TX ZIP: 78745 FILER: COMPANY DATA: COMPANY CONFORMED NAME: AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORP CENTRAL INDEX KEY: 0001168468 STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION: JEWELRY, PRECIOUS METAL [3911] IRS NUMBER: 314126506 STATE OF INCORPORATION: DE FISCAL YEAR END: 0831 FILING VALUES: FORM TYPE: 10-K SEC ACT: 1934 Act SEC FILE NUMBER: 333-84294 FILM NUMBER: 071291836 MAIL ADDRESS: STREET 1: 7211 CIRCLES S ROAD CITY: AUSTIN STATE: TX ZIP: 78745 10-K 1 body_10k-fy2007.htm FORM 10-K FY2007 body_10k-fy2007.htm


UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-K
 
 
 
þ
 
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
     
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED AUGUST 25, 2007
OR
 
 
 
o
 
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Commission file numbers 333-137067, 333-121479 and 333-84294

AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)
 
 
 
DELAWARE
DELAWARE
DELAWARE
(State or Other Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or Organization)
 
20-4833998
20-1854833
13-4126506
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification Number)

7211 CIRCLE S ROAD
AUSTIN, TEXAS 78745
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
Registrants’ Telephone Number, Including Area Code: (512) 444-0571

     Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: None.

     Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None.

     Indicate by check mark if the registrants are well-known seasoned issuers, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes o    No þ

     Indicate by check mark if the registrant American Achievement Group Holding Corp. is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes þ   No o

     Indicate by check mark if the registrant AAC Group Holding Corp. is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes þ   No o

     Indicate by check mark if the registrant American Achievement Corporation is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes þ   No o

     Indicate by check mark whether the registrants (1) have filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrants were required to file such reports), and (2) have been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes o    No þ.

     Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrants’ knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. o

     Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer o          Accelerated filer o          Non-accelerated filer þ
     Indicate by check mark whether any of the registrants are shell companies (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o   No þ.

     Number of shares of American Achievement Group Holding Corp outstanding as of August 25, 2007: 505,460 shares of common stock.

     Number of shares of AAC Group Holding Corp. outstanding as of August 25, 2007: 100 shares of common stock.

     Number of shares of American Achievement Corporation outstanding as of August 25, 2007: 100 shares of common stock.

     This Form 10-K is a combined annual report being filed separately by three registrants: American Achievement Group Holding Corp., AAC Group Holding Corp. and American Achievement Corporation. Unless the context indicates otherwise, any reference in this report to “Parent Holdings” refers to American Achievement Group Holding Corp., “Intermediate Holdings” refers to AAC Group Holding Corp. and “AAC” refers to American Achievement Corporation, the indirect wholly-owned operating subsidiary of Intermediate Holdings. The “Company”, “we”, “us” and “our” refer to American Achievement Group Holding Corp. and AAC Group Holding Corp. together with American Achievement Corporation.
 





AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION

FORM 10-K
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED AUGUST 25, 2007
INDEX

 
Page
 
       
PART I
     
Item 1. Business
 
3
 
Item 1A. Risk Factors
 
9
 
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
 
13
 
Item 2. Properties
 
13
 
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
 
13
 
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
 
13
 
       
PART II
     
Item 5. Market for Registrants’ Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
 
14
 
Item 6. Selected Financial Data
 
14
 
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
21
 
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
 
35
 
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
 
36
 
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
 
82
 
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
 
82
 
       
PART III
     
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
 
83
 
Item 11. Executive Compensation
 
86
 
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
 
94
 
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
 
95
 
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services
 
96
 
       
PART IV
     
Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules
 
96
 
Signatures
 
100
 
 Employment Agreement - Kris G. Radhakrishnan
     
 Employment Agreement - Theresa Ann Broome
     
 Statement re: Computation of Ratios of Earnings to Fixed Charges
     
 Subsidiaries
     
 Certification Pursuant to Section 302
     
 Certification Pursuant to Section 302
     
 Certification Pursuant to Section 906
     
 Certification Pursuant to Section 906
     
 
Explanatory Note

This combined Form 10-K is separately filed by American Achievement Group Holding Corp., AAC Group Holding Corp. and American Achievement Corporation. Each Registrant hereto is filing on its own behalf all of the information contained in this annual report that relates to such Registrant. Each Registrant hereto is not filing any information that does not relate to such Registrant, and therefore makes no representation as to any such information.
2

PART I

Item 1. Business

Registrants    
 
     American Achievement Group Holding Corp. (“Parent Holdings”) was formed in May 2006 and owns 100% of the shares of common stock of AAC Group Holding Corp. (“Intermediate Holdings”). Intermediate Holdings, formed in November 2004, owns 100% of the shares of common stock of AAC Holding Corp., which is the holder of 100% of the shares of common stock of American Achievement Corporation (“AAC”). Intermediate Holdings conducts all of its business through AAC Holding Corp. and AAC and its subsidiaries. Parent Holdings conducts all of its business through Intermediate Holdings, AAC Holding Corp. and AAC and its subsidiaries. Parent Holdings, Intermediate Holdings, and AAC are treated as entities under common control. Accordingly, the financial results are being presented for Parent Holdings and Intermediate Holdings for all periods for which the financial results of AAC are presented. The financial results of Parent Holdings prior to its formation represent entirely those of its wholly-owned subsidiary, Intermediate Holdings and its indirect wholly-owned subsidiary, AAC. The financial results of Intermediate Holdings prior to its formation represent entirely those of its wholly-owned indirect subsidiary, AAC. The “Company”, “we”, “us” and “our” refer to Parent Holdings, Intermediate Holdings and AAC, together with our consolidated subsidiaries
 
General

     We are one of the leading manufacturers and suppliers of class rings, yearbooks, graduation products, achievement publications and recognition products and affinity jewelry in the United States. We market and sell yearbooks to the college, high school, junior high school and elementary markets. We primarily sell our class rings and graduation products, which include fine paper products and graduation accessories, in the high school, college and junior high school markets. Our achievement publications segment produces, markets and sells publications that recognize the achievements of top students at the high school and college levels, as well as the nation’s most inspiring teachers. It consists of various titles including the Who’s Who brand and The National Dean’s List. We also sell jewelry commemorating family events such as the birth of a child, military and fan affinity jewelry and related products, professional sports championship rings, commercial printing and recognition products such as letter jackets.

     As fully described under the “Significant Developments” section of Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, on October 26, 2007, the Company decided to shut down the operations of its achievement publications segment.  The shutdown activities are expected to be substantially complete by the end of the first quarter of fiscal 2008.

Company Background

     Our business was founded when the operations of ArtCarved, which were previously owned by CJC Holdings, Inc., and the operations of Balfour, which were previously owned by L.G. Balfour Company, Inc., were combined through various asset purchase agreements in December 1996. AAC was formed in June 2000 to serve as a holding company for these operations as well as any future acquisitions. In June 2000, we acquired the Taylor Senior Holding Company, the parent company of Taylor Publishing Company (“Taylor”), whose primary business is designing and printing student yearbooks. In March 2001, AAC acquired all of the capital stock of Educational Communications, Inc. (“ECI”), which publishes achievement publications. In July 2002, AAC acquired all the outstanding stock and warrants of Milestone Marketing, a marketer of class rings and other graduation products to the college market. In January 2004, AAC acquired C-B Graduation Announcements, a marketer of graduation products to the college market.   In April 2007, Commemorative Brands, Inc. (“CBI”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of AAC, acquired all of the outstanding stock of BFJ Holdings, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiary, Powers Embroidery, Inc. (“Powers”). Powers is a producer of quality letter jackets, chenille patches and other school spirit embroidery merchandise and is located in Waco, Texas.
    
3

     On March 25, 2004, AAC Acquisition Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of AAC Holding Corp., merged with and into AAC (the “Merger”), with AAC continuing as the surviving corporation and a wholly-owned subsidiary of AAC Holding Corp. The Merger was financed by a cash equity investment by an investor group led by Fenway Partners Capital Fund II, L.P., borrowings under AAC’s senior secured credit facility and the issuance of AAC’s 8.25% senior subordinated notes due 2012. As a result of the Merger, we have reflected pre-Merger periods (“Predecessor”) for results of operations through March 25, 2004 and post-Merger periods (“Successor”) for results of operations subsequent to March 25, 2004 in our consolidated financial information and statements. In November 2004, AAC Holding Corp. underwent a recapitalization transaction pursuant to which its stockholders exchanged their shares of AAC Holding Corp. common stock for shares of Intermediate Holdings common stock and as a result, AAC Holding Corp. became a wholly owned subsidiary of Intermediate Holdings.
     
     On November 16, 2004, Intermediate Holdings issued $131.5 million aggregate principal amount at maturity of 10.25% senior discount notes due 2012, generating net proceeds of $89.3 million. Intermediate Holdings is the sole obligor of these notes. The net proceeds of this offering were used as a distribution to stockholders through the repurchase of shares of Intermediate Holdings’ common stock from its stockholders.

     On January 18, 2006, Intermediate Holdings entered into a Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement with an investor pursuant to which Intermediate Holdings sold shares of its mandatory redeemable series A preferred stock. In connection with this transaction, Intermediate Holdings issued the investor 7,500 shares of the mandatory redeemable series A preferred stock for an aggregate purchase price of $7.5 million, which the investor paid to Intermediate Holdings in cash. The holders of the mandatory redeemable series A preferred stock are entitled to receive cumulative dividends at a rate of 14% per year, when, as and if declared by the Board of Directors of Intermediate Holdings.      

     On May 8, 2006, the holders of outstanding stock of Intermediate Holdings, agreed to form a new holding company for Intermediate Holdings, and on May 30, 2006, reached agreement for their new company, Parent Holdings, to affect a stock exchange with Intermediate Holdings. Pursuant to that agreement, each holder of common stock of Intermediate Holdings contributed each of their shares of such stock then held to Parent Holdings in exchange for a new share of common stock of Parent Holdings and each holder of series A redeemable preferred stock of Intermediate Holdings contributed each of their shares of such stock then held to the Parent Holdings in exchange for a new share of series A redeemable preferred stock of Parent Holdings. Each new share of capital stock received in such contribution and exchange had the same rights, preferences and privileges as the corresponding share of stock of Intermediate Holdings that was contributed to Parent Holdings. As a result of the foregoing recapitalization, Intermediate Holdings became a wholly owned subsidiary of Parent Holdings.
     
     On June 12, 2006, Parent Holdings issued $150.0 million principal amount of senior PIK notes due October 1, 2012. The net proceeds of this offering were used to pay a $140.5 million dividend to the stockholders of Parent Holdings. Because EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) fell below certain target levels for the four quarters ended February 24, 2007, the rate at which interest accrues on the senior PIK notes was increased by 2.00% per annum, to a rate of 14.75%, commencing on and including February 24, 2007. The senior PIK notes are the unsecured senior obligation of Parent Holdings and are not guaranteed by Intermediate Holdings or any of its subsidiaries.

     Other than the series A preferred stock, debt obligations, related deferred debt issuance costs, associated accrued liabilities and related interest expense, net of taxes, all other assets, liabilities, income, expenses and cash flows presented for all periods represent those of Parent Holdings and Intermediate Holdings’ wholly-owned indirect subsidiary AAC and the direct and indirect subsidiaries of AAC. Intermediate Holdings’ only direct subsidiary is AAC Holding Corp., whose sole asset is the stock of AAC. AAC, Intermediate Holdings and Parent Holdings are treated as entities under common control.

Our Product Business Segments

     Our product business segments consist of five principal categories: Class Rings, Yearbooks, Graduation Products, Achievement Publications and Other. Sales for these segments for the most recent three fiscal years were:
 
($ in thousands)
 
Fiscal Year Ended     
 
Segment
 
2007 
 
2006 
 
 2005
 
Class Rings
 
$
        120,949
 
$
        119,451
 
$
        119,658
 
Yearbooks
   
        115,207
   
        114,883
   
        112,432
 
Graduation Products
   
          44,428
   
          43,940
   
          40,018
 
Achievement Publications
   
            5,148
   
          20,974
   
          20,110
 
Other
   
          30,004
   
          21,662
   
          21,570
 
Total
 
$
        315,736
 
$
        320,910
 
$
        313,788
 
                     

4

The table below sets forth our principal product lines, various brand names, and the distribution channels through which we sell our products.
 
Product Lines
 
Brand Names
 
Distribution Channel
High School Class Rings:
 
ArtCarved®
 
Independent jewelry stores
 
     
Jewelry chains
 
 
Balfour®
 
On-campus
 
 
Keystone Class Rings®
 
Mass merchandisers
 
 
Master Class Rings®
 
Mass merchandisers
 
 
R. Johns®
 
Independent jewelry stores
College Class Rings:
 
Balfour®
 
College bookstores
 
     
Direct marketing
Yearbooks:
 
Taylor Publishing
 
On-campus
High School Graduation Products:
 
Balfour®
 
On-campus
College Graduation Products:
 
Balfour®
 
Direct marketing
 
     
College bookstores
Achievement Publications:
 
Who’s Who®
 
Direct marketing
 
 
The National Dean’s List®
 
Direct marketing
Affinity Group Jewelry:
 
Keepsake®
 
Direct marketing
 
 
R. Johns®
 
Direct marketing
 
 
Balfour®
 
Direct marketing
Personalized Fashion Jewelry:
 
Celebrations of Life®
 
Independent jewelry stores
 
     
Jewelry chains
   
Keepsake®
 
Mass merchandisers
 
 
Generations of Love®
 
Mass merchandisers
 
 
Namesake®
 
Mass merchandisers
Fan Affinity Sports Jewelry:
 
Balfour Sports®
 
Mass merchandisers
 
     
Catalogues
Professional Sports Championship Jewelry:
Balfour®
 
Direct marketing
Commercial Printing:
 
Taylor Publishing
 
Direct sales force
Other Recognition Products:
 
Balfour®
 
On-campus
   
Powers
 
Sporting goods stores

Class Rings

                    We manufacture class rings for high school, college and university students and, to a lesser extent, junior high school students. Our rings are marketed under various brand names, including ArtCarved, Balfour, R. Johns, Keystone and Master Class Rings. Our ArtCarved and Balfour brand names have been known in the market place for over 66 years and 93 years, respectively. For most of the schools that we serve, we are the sole on-campus class ring supplier. Our independent sales representatives operate under contracts with us and coordinate ring design, promotion and order processing.

     We custom manufacture each ring. We maintain an inventory of more than 650,000 unique proprietary ring dies.  The production process takes approximately two to eight weeks from receipt of the customer’s order to product shipment, depending on style, option selections and new or custom tooling requirements. We use computer aided design software to quickly and cost-effectively convert new custom designs such as school seals, mascots and activities into physical tools capable of producing rings in large quantities. Rings are produced only upon receipt of a customer order and deposit, which reduces our credit risk. Class ring products contributed 38%, 37% and 38% of our net sales in the fiscal years 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

Yearbooks
  
     We produce yearbooks for high school, college, junior high school and elementary school students. We also publish specialty commercial books including military yearbooks, which, for example, commemorate naval tours of duty at sea. We are one of the leading providers of yearbooks. All of our yearbooks are sold under the Taylor Publishing brand name.
5

     We typically enter into one-year contracts with schools, although some of our contracts are multi-year agreements. Our independent sales representatives operate under contracts with us and develop strong relationships with schools as they assist students and faculty advisors throughout the design process and provide technical and marketing support. We have made major advances in yearbook systems and design. Most recently, we believe we were the first yearbook provider to fully integrate digital technology throughout our production process which has led to increased output speed and enhanced print quality. We are also a leading provider of online desktop publishing technology which provides our customers with exceptional versatility and productivity in publishing their yearbook.

     We publish yearbooks in our own facilities. Since 1993, we have made significant expenditures on proprietary software and hardware to support electronic platforms for creating, transmitting and managing yearbook production and printing technology. We also offer full production support for off-the-shelf desktop publishing tools. In the last five fiscal years we have upgraded our printing presses and fully integrated digital technology throughout our production process to, among other things, increase the speed of output and automatically monitor ink flow and control color composition. This new technology allows Taylor to fulfill the dominant customer need in the industry over the past several years; high-quality full-color printing. The foregoing technology upgrades and enhancements have enabled us to reduce manufacturing costs and improve on-time delivery, performance and print quality. Yearbook products contributed approximately 36% of our net sales in each of the fiscal years 2007, 2006 and 2005.

Graduation Products

    We offer a full array of graduation products to high school and college students through our network of independent class ring sales representatives, as well as through college bookstores. Our graduation product line includes personalized graduation announcements, name cards, thank you notes, diplomas, mini diplomas, diploma covers, certificates, appreciation gifts, graduation soft goods and other fine paper accessory items. In addition to our fine paper accessories, we also offer caps and gowns. Our graduation products are sold under the Balfour brand name.

     The majority of our graduation products are personalized to some degree and have short production runs and cycles. We manufacture these products at our own facilities and distribute them through our independent high school class ring sales representatives and college bookstores. As part of our graduation product line, we also offer caps and gowns for high school and college students.

     We have enhanced our college website to enable students and their parents to order graduation products online. We believe that, over time, this will increase sales of our graduation products and, in particular, personalized college announcements that include a student’s name, degree and other personal information in the text of the announcement. We also intend to leverage our existing channels of distribution and, in particular, our presence in college bookstores, to further increase sales of these products. Graduation products contributed 14%, 14% and 13% of our net sales in the fiscal years 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

Achievement Publications

     We are a provider of academic achievement directories. Our publications recognize the achievements of top high school and college students, as well as the nation’s most inspiring high school teachers. We currently publish three achievement publications, including Who’s Who Among American High School Students, The National Dean’s List, and Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers.
    
    We also sell related products, including plaques, certificates, gold and silver pins and charms, mugs, key chains and paper weights, which commemorate a student’s or teacher’s inclusion in one of our achievement publications. The primary customer base for our achievement publications and related products are the students and teachers featured in the publications and their families. We have an established network of nomination sources that we utilize to identify students and teachers for recognition. Students and teachers are not required to purchase publications in order to be included in them. Printing for our achievement publications is outsourced. Achievement publication products contributed 2%, 7% and 6% of our net sales in the fiscal years 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.

    The financial performance of our achievement publications segment took a significant downturn in 2007, with sales declining significantly as compared to fiscal 2006.  As a result of this, after unsuccessful attempts to sell the business, on October 26, 2007, the Company decided to shut down the operations of its achievement publications segment.  See the “Significant Developments” section of Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for a full description.

6

Other

     Our Other products are primarily recognition and affinity jewelry, which consist of the following product categories:

 
 
Affinity Group Jewelry. Affinity group jewelry is sold to members of large groups and associations. The jewelry features emblems of, and otherwise commemorates accomplishments within, the group. For example, through our Keepsake brand, we provide affinity ring awards to the United States Bowling Congress, including recognition rings for bowlers who score a perfect “300” game. Through our Balfour brand, we provide affinity rings to military personnel that recognize affiliation and completion of specialized training ranging from basic training to special forces.
 
     
 
 
Personalized Fashion Jewelry. Our personalized fashion jewelry products include rings commemorating children’s birth dates, which feature a level of personalization, such as birthstones and names, which distinguishes us from our competitors. We also sell other personalized jewelry, such as necklaces and bracelets, designed to commemorate family events. We provide personalized family jewelry under our Celebrations of Life, Generations of Love, Keepsake and Namesake brand names.
       
 
 
Professional Sports Championship Jewelry. We provide sports championship jewelry for professional teams and their members and have, for example, produced several World Series, Super Bowl and Stanley Cup rings, including all of the rings for the New York Yankees’ 26 championships. We provide sports championship jewelry under the Balfour brand.
 
     
 
 
Commercial Printing. We provide a variety of printing products for the commercial market. We provide these products under the Taylor Publishing brand.
 
     
 
 
Other Recognition Products.  Our other recognition products include letter jackets, loose and applied chenille, inserts, pins, banners, and embroidered soft goods that commemorate accomplishments in sports, band or other school based organizations.  Our products are marketed under Balfour to on-campus and Powers to sporting goods retailers.  These products are also marketed to corporations and businesses as corporate affinity products.
     
Sales and Marketing

     At the high school level, class rings are sold through two distribution channels: independent sales representatives selling directly to students and retail stores, which include independent jewelry stores, jewelry chains and mass merchandisers. Our high school class rings are sold by independent jewelry retailers, many of the nation’s largest jewelry chains, including Zales, Gordons and Sterling, and by mass merchandisers, including Wal-Mart, JC Penney, and K-Mart. We sell different brands and product lines in retail stores in order to enable them to differentiate their products from those sold by our independent sales representatives directly to students at schools. College rings are sold primarily through college bookstores and colleges by our employee sales representatives. Historically, college bookstores have been owned and operated by academic institutions. Over the last several years, an increasing number of college bookstores have been leased to contract operators, primarily Barnes and Noble Bookstores and Follett Corporation, with whom we have longstanding relationships. Decisions to include our products are typically made on a national basis by each bookstore operator.

     Yearbooks are produced under an exclusive contract with each school for the academic year and are sold directly to students by the school. Under the terms of the contract, the school agrees to pay us a base price for producing the yearbook. This price sometimes increases between order receipt and production as a result of enhancements to the contract specifications, such as additional color pages. Our independent yearbook sales representatives call on schools at the contract stage. Thereafter, they coordinate between the school’s yearbook committee and our customer service and plant employees to ensure satisfactory quality and service.

     Graduation products are sold directly to students through our network of independent high school class ring sales representatives and in college bookstores and colleges through our network of employee and independent sales representatives. Achievement publications are sold through direct marketing. Other affinity products are sold through a variety of distribution channels, including direct marketing, mass merchandisers, catalogs and retail stores.

     Our independent high school class ring and independent yearbook sales representatives have average tenures with our company of approximately 13 and 10 years, respectively.  We compensate our independent sales representatives on a commission basis. Most independent sales representatives also receive a monthly advance against commissions earned, although all expenses, including promotional materials made available by us, are the responsibility of the representative. Our independent sales representatives operate under exclusive contracts that include non-compete arrangements. Employee sales representatives receive a combination of salary and sales incentives.
7

Intellectual Property

     We have trademarks, patents and licenses that in the aggregate are an important part of our business. However, we do not regard our business as being materially dependent upon any single trademark, patent or license. We have trademark registration applications pending and intend to pursue other registrations as appropriate to establish and preserve our intellectual property rights.

     We market our products under many trademarked brand names, some of which rank among the most recognized and respected names in jewelry and publications. Generally, a trademark registration will remain in effect so long as the trademark remains in use by the registered holder and any required renewals are obtained. We own several patented ring designs and business process patents.

     The following marks are registered pursuant to applicable intellectual property laws and are the property of AAC or its subsidiaries: “ArtCarved,” “ArtCarved Class Rings”, “Balfour,” “Class Rings, Ltd,” “Keystone,” “Master Class Rings,” “R. Johns,”  “Keepsake,” “Who’s Who,” “The National Dean’s List,” “Celebrations of Life,” “Generations of Love,” “Namesake,” and the various logos related to the foregoing brands.

Competition

     The class rings, yearbooks and graduation products market is highly concentrated and consists primarily of a few large national participants. Our principal competitors in the class ring and graduation products markets are Jostens, Inc. and Herff Jones, Inc., which compete with us nationally across all product lines. Our principal competitors in the yearbook market are Jostens, Herff Jones and Walsworth Publishing Company. All competitors in the scholastic products market compete primarily on the basis of quality, marketing and customer service and, to a lesser extent, price.

     We have limited competition for our student achievement publications, as only a small percentage of the high school and college students included in our publications are also included in the publications of our competitors. We have no direct competition in the teacher recognition market. Our affinity group jewelry products, fan affinity sports jewelry and products and our professional sports championship jewelry businesses compete with Jostens and, to a lesser extent, with various other companies. Our personalized fashion jewelry products compete mainly with smaller regional companies. We compete with our affinity product competitors primarily on the basis of quality, marketing, customer service and price.

Raw Material and Suppliers

     Numerous raw materials are used in the manufacture of our products. Gold and other metals, precious, semi-precious and synthetic stones, paper products and ink comprise the bulk of the raw materials we utilize in the largest segments of our business. Our raw materials are purchased from multiple suppliers at market prices, except that we purchase substantially all synthetic and semi-precious stones from a single supplier who we believe supplies substantially all of these types of stones to almost all of the class ring manufacturers in the United States. Synthetic and semi-precious stones are available from other suppliers, although switching to these suppliers could result in additional costs to us.

     We periodically reset our prices to reflect the then current prices of raw materials. In addition, we may engage in various hedging transactions to reduce the effects of fluctuations in the price of gold. We also negotiate paper prices on an annual basis so that we are able to estimate yearbook and graduation announcement costs with greater certainty.

Seasonality

     The seasonal nature of our various businesses tends to be tempered by our broad product mix. Class ring sales are highest during October through December and early spring, with many orders made for delivery to students before the winter holiday season. Graduation product sales are predominantly made during February through April prior to the April through June graduation season. Yearbook sales are highest during the months of April through June, as yearbooks are typically shipped prior to each school’s summer break. Our recognition and affinity product line sales are also seasonal. The majority of our achievement publications are shipped in August of each year. The remaining recognition and affinity product line sales are highest during the winter holiday season and in the period leading up to Mother’s Day.

     As a result of the foregoing, we have experienced operating losses during our first and fourth fiscal quarters, which includes the beginning of the school year and the summer months when school is not in session, thus reducing related shipment of products. In addition, our working capital requirements tend to exceed our operating cash flows from May through September.

8

Backlog

     Because of the nature of our business, all orders (except yearbooks) are generally filled between two and eight weeks after the time of placement. We enter into yearbook contracts several months prior to delivery. While yearbook base prices are established at the time of order, final prices are often not calculated at that time since the content typically changes prior to publication. We estimate (calculated on the basis of the base price of yearbooks ordered) that the backlog of orders related to continuing operations was approximately $100 million as of August 25, 2007, almost exclusively related to student yearbooks. We expect substantially all of this backlog to be filled in fiscal 2008.

Employees

     Given the seasonality of our business, the size of our employee base fluctuates throughout the year, with the number typically being highest during September through May and lowest from June to August. As of August 25, 2007, we had approximately 1,900 employees. We believe that our employee relations are good.  Some of our production employees are represented by unions. Hourly production and maintenance employees located at our Austin, Texas manufacturing facility are represented by the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners Union. The United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners Union signed a collective bargaining agreement that will expire in May of 2009. Some hourly production employees at our Dallas facility are represented by the Graphic Communications Conference/International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 367M. We have two collective bargaining agreements in place with this Union.  One agreement expires in July 2009 and the other in February 2010.

Environmental

     We are subject to applicable federal, state and local laws, ordinances and regulations that establish various health and environmental quality standards. Past and present manufacturing operations subject us to environmental laws and regulations that seek to protect human health or the environment, governing among other things the use, handling and disposal or recycling of, or exposure to, hazardous or toxic substances, the remediation of contaminated sites, emissions into the air and the discharge of wastewaters. We believe that our business, operations and facilities are in substantial compliance with all material environmental laws and regulations, many of which provide for substantial fines and criminal sanctions for violations. We believe that we have adequate environmental insurance and indemnities to sufficiently cover any currently known material environmental liabilities and that we do not currently face environmental liabilities that could have a material adverse affect on our financial condition or results of operations.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

Our substantial indebtedness could adversely affect our financial health and prevent us from fulfilling our financial obligations.

     We have a significant amount of indebtedness. On August 25, 2007, Parent Holdings’ total indebtedness is $546.3 million (of which $175.8 million consisted of the senior PIK notes, $117.9 million consisted of the 10.25% senior discount notes., $7.5 million consisted of our mandatory redeemable Series A preferred stock, $150.0 million consisted of the existing 8.25% senior subordinated notes, $94.9 million consisted of indebtedness under the existing senior secured credit facility and the balance consisted of capital lease obligations).

     Our substantial indebtedness could have important consequences to you. For example, it could:

 
 
make it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations with respect to our indebtedness;
 
     
 
 
increase our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions;
 
     
 
 
require us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to payments on our indebtedness, thereby reducing the availability of our cash flow to fund working capital, capital expenditures, research and development efforts and other general corporate purposes;
 
     
 
 
limit our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the industry in which we operate;
 
     
 
 
place us at a competitive disadvantage compared to our competitors that have less debt; and
 
     
 
 
limit our ability to borrow additional funds.
     
9

To service our indebtedness, we require a significant amount of cash. Our ability to generate cash depends on many factors beyond our control.

     Our ability to make payments on and to refinance our indebtedness, including the notes, and to fund planned capital expenditures and research and development efforts, depends on our ability to generate cash in the future. Our ability to do so, to a certain extent, is subject to general economic, financial, competitive, legislative and other factors that are beyond our control.

We cannot assure you that our business will generate sufficient cash flow from operations and that currently anticipated cost savings and operating improvements will be realized on schedule or that future borrowings will be available under the existing senior secured credit facility in an amount sufficient to enable us to pay our indebtedness or to fund our other liquidity needs. We may need to refinance all or a portion of our indebtedness, on or before maturity. We cannot assure you that we will be able to refinance any of our indebtedness, including the existing senior secured credit facility, the 10.25% senior discount notes, the 8.25% senior subordinated notes and the senior PIK notes, on commercially reasonable terms or at all.

Restrictions in the indentures governing the senior PIK notes, the 10.25% senior discount notes, the 8.25% senior subordinated notes and the existing senior secured credit facility may prevent us from taking actions that we believe would be in the best interest of our business.

     The indentures governing the senior PIK notes, the 10.25% senior discount notes, the 8.25% senior subordinated notes and the existing senior secured credit facility contain customary restrictions on us or our subsidiaries, including covenants that restrict us or our subsidiaries, as the case may be, from:

 
 
incurring additional indebtedness and issuing preferred stock;
 
     
 
 
granting liens on our assets;
 
     
 
 
making investments;
 
     
 
 
consolidating or merging with, or acquiring, another business;
 
     
 
 
selling or otherwise disposing of our assets;
 
     
 
 
paying dividends and making other distributions with respect to our capital stock, or purchasing, redeeming or retiring our capital stock;
 
     
 
 
entering into transactions with our affiliates; and
 
     
 
 
entering into sale and leaseback transactions.
     
The existing senior secured credit facility also requires AAC to meet specified financial ratios. These restrictions may prevent us from taking actions that we believe would be in the best interest of our business, and may make it difficult for us to successfully execute our business strategy or effectively compete with companies that are not similarly restricted.

If we are unable to maintain our business or further implement our business strategy, our business and financial condition could be adversely affected.

     Our ability to meet our debt service and other obligations depends significantly on how successful we are in maintaining our business and further implementing our business strategy. Our business plan envisions several long-term growth initiatives, including the development of new products. We may not be able to do either of the foregoing and the anticipated results of our strategy may not be realized. The components of our strategy are subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control. If we are unable to continue to successfully maintain our business and implement our business strategy, our long-term growth and profitability may be adversely affected.
    
     In addition, the business strategy that we intend to pursue is based on our operations and strategic planning process. We may decide to alter or discontinue parts of this strategy or may adopt alternative or additional strategies. The strategies implemented may not be successful and may not improve our operating results. Further, other conditions may occur, including increased competition, which may offset any improved operating results attributable to our business strategy.
 
10

We face significant competition from other national competitors.

     We face strong competition for most of our principal products. The class ring and yearbook markets are highly concentrated and consist primarily of a few national manufacturers (of which we are one) and, to a significantly lesser extent, small regional competitors. Our recognition and affinity products compete with one national manufacturer and, to a lesser extent, with various other companies. We may not be able to compete successfully with our competitors, some of whom may have greater resources, including financial resources, than we have.

Increased prices for raw materials or finished goods used in our products could adversely affect our profitability or revenues.

     Numerous raw materials are used in the manufacture of our products. Gold and other metals, precious, semi-precious and synthetic stones, paper products and ink comprise the bulk of the raw materials we utilize in the largest segments of our business. Prices of these materials, especially gold, continually fluctuate. Any material long-term increase in the price of one or more of our raw materials could have a direct adverse impact on our cost of sales. In addition, we may be unable to pass on the increased costs to our customers. Our inability to pass on these increased costs could adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition and cash flow.

     Our operating results are dependent upon the market price of gold. We have no control over gold prices, which can fluctuate widely and are affected by numerous factors, such as supply and demand and investor sentiment. We will at times, enter into forward sale contracts and/or, put/call option contracts to hedge the effects of price fluctuations. We continually evaluate the potential benefits of engaging in these strategies based on current market conditions, but there can be no assurance that we will be able to hedge in the future on similar economic terms, or that any of the hedges we enter into will be effective. We may be exposed to nonperformance by counterparties or, during periods of significant price fluctuation, margin calls as a result of our hedging activities. Each ten percent change in the price of gold would result in a change of $2.9 million in cost of goods sold, assuming gold purchase levels approximate the levels in the fiscal year 2007. An unfavorable change in the cost of gold, or an improper hedging strategy, could adversely affect our results of operations.

Currency exchange rate fluctuations may adversely affect our results of operations.

     We have been subject to market risk associated with foreign currency exchange rates. We purchase the majority of our semi-precious and synthetic stones from a single supplier in Germany. The prices for these products are denominated in Euros. In order to hedge market risk, we have from time-to-time purchased forward currency contracts; however, during the fiscal 2006 and 2007, we did not purchase any Euro forward contracts and did not have any such contracts outstanding. Each ten percent change in the Euro exchange rate would result in a $0.5 million change in cost of goods sold, assuming stone purchase levels approximate those levels in the fiscal 2007. An unfavorable change in the exchange rates could adversely affect our results of operations.

Many of our products or components of our products are provided by a limited number of third-party suppliers.

     Virtually all of the synthetic and semi-precious stones used in our class rings are purchased from a single supplier. We believe that most of the class ring manufacturers in the United States purchase substantially all of these types of stones from this supplier. If this supplier was unable to supply us with stones, or if this supplier’s inventory of stones significantly decreased, our ability to manufacture rings featuring these stones would be adversely affected. If we were required to secure a new source for these stones, we might not be able to do so on terms as favorable as our current terms, which could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition. Even if acceptable alternatives were found, the process of locating and securing such alternatives might be disruptive to our business. Extended unavailability of a necessary raw material or finished good used in our products could cause us to cease manufacturing one or more products for a period of time.

Our future operating results are dependent on maintaining our relationships with our independent sales representatives.

     We rely on the efforts and abilities of our network of independent sales representatives to sell our class ring, yearbook and graduation products. Most of our relationships with customers and schools are cultivated and maintained by our independent sales representatives. If we were to lose a significant number of our independent sales representatives, it could adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition and cash flow.

11

Our performance may fluctuate with the financial condition of, or loss of, our retail customers.

     A significant portion of our jewelry products are sold through major retail stores, including mass merchandisers, jewelry store chains and independent jewelry stores. As a result, our business and financial results may be adversely impacted by adverse changes in the financial conditions of these retailers, loss of the retailer’s business, the general condition of the retail industry and the economy overall. Specifically, bankruptcy filings by these retailers could adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition and cash flow.

The seasonality of our sales may have an adverse effect on our operations and our ability to service our debt.

     Our business experiences strong seasonal swings that correspond to the typical U.S. academic year. Class ring sales are highest during October through December and early spring, yearbook sales are highest during April and June, graduation product sales are highest during February through April and achievement publication sales are highest during August. If our sales were to fall substantially below what we would normally expect during these periods, our annual financial results would be adversely impacted and our ability to service our debt could also be adversely affected.

We are subject to environmental laws and regulations that could impose substantial costs upon us and may adversely affect our financial results.

     We are subject to applicable federal, state and local laws, ordinances and regulations that establish various health and environmental quality standards. Past and present manufacturing operations subject us to environmental laws and regulations that seek to protect human health or the environment governing, among other things, the use, handling and disposal or recycling of, or exposure to, hazardous or toxic substances, the remediation of contaminated sites, emissions into the air and discharge of wastewaters. In the event that environmental liabilities are in excess of, or not covered by, our environmental insurance and indemnities, this could have a material adverse affect on our results of operations, financial condition and cash flow.

Our business could be adversely affected by unforeseen economic and political conditions.

     Although we believe that growth in the scholastic products market is determined primarily by demographics, we are not fully insulated against economic downturns and unforeseen economic conditions. A weakening of the U.S. economy, an increase in the unemployment rate, decreased consumer disposable income, decreased consumer confidence in the economy and other economic factors could adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition and cash flow.

We rely on proprietary rights which may not be adequately protected.

     Our efforts to protect and defend our intellectual property rights may not be successful, and the costs associated with protecting our rights in certain jurisdictions could be extensive. The loss or reduction of any of our significant proprietary rights could hurt our ability to distinguish our products from competitors’ products and retain our leading market shares.

We depend on numerous complex information systems, and any failure to successfully maintain those systems or implement new systems could materially harm our operations.

     We depend upon numerous information systems for operational and financial information and billing operations. We may not be able to maintain or enhance existing or implement new information systems. We intend to continue to invest in and administer sophisticated management information systems, and we may experience unanticipated delays, complications and expenses in implementing, integrating and operating our systems. Furthermore, our information systems may require modifications, improvements or replacements that may require substantial expenditures and may require interruptions in operations during periods of implementation. Moreover, implementation of these systems is subject to the availability of information technology and skilled personnel to assist us in creating and implementing the systems. The failure to successfully implement and maintain operational, financial, testing and billing information systems could have an adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition and cash flow.

Our results of operations are dependent on certain principal production facilities.

     We are dependent on certain key production facilities. Any disruption of production capabilities at our Dallas yearbook or Austin class ring facilities for a significant term could lead to the loss of customers during any period which production is interrupted, and could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

12

Our stockholders’ interests may conflict with interests of our other investors.

     An investor group led by Fenway Partners Capital Fund II, L.P. owns substantially all of Parent Holding’s outstanding stock. As a result, these investors are in a position to control all matters affecting us, including controlling decisions made by our board of directors, such as the approval of acquisitions and other extraordinary business transactions, the appointment of members of our management and the approval of mergers or sales of substantially all of our assets. The interests of these investors in exercising control over our business may conflict with interests of our other investors.

Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments

     None.

Item 2. Properties

     Our headquarters and principal executive offices are located at 7211 Circle S Road, Austin, Texas. A summary of the physical properties that we use follows in the table below.  We believe that our facilities are suitable for their purpose and adequate to meet our business operations requirements. The extent of utilization of individual facilities varies due to the seasonal nature of our business.
 
Approximate Location
 
Type of Property
 
Leased or Owned
 
Square Footage
Austin, TX
 
Corporate headquarters
 
Owned
 
23,000
 
Austin, TX
 
Jewelry manufacturing and administration
 
Owned
 
108,000
 
Austin, TX
 
Warehouse facility
 
Leased
 
38,600
 
Dallas, TX
 
Yearbook administration and manufacturing
 
Owned
 
327,000
 
El Paso, TX
 
Yearbook pre-press
 
Leased
 
50,000
 
Louisville, KY
 
Graduation products manufacturing
 
Leased
 
100,000
 
Manhattan, KS
 
Graduation products manufacturing
 
Leased
 
10,000
 
Juarez, Mexico
 
Jewelry manufacturing
 
Leased
 
20,000
 
Waco, TX
 
Recognition product manufacturing
 
Leased
 
51,000
 
 
Item 3. Legal Proceedings

     In the normal course of business, we may be a party to lawsuits and administrative proceedings before various courts and government agencies. These lawsuits and proceedings may involve personal injury, contractual issues and other matters. We cannot predict the ultimate outcome of any pending or threatened litigation or of actual claims or possible claims. However, we believe resulting liabilities, if any, will not have a material adverse impact upon our results of operations, financial condition or cash flow.

     On July 17, 2006, in the 128th Judicial District Court of Orange County, Texas, a Seventh Amended Petition (naming over 100 defendants) was filed by the estate of John Estrada and Nancy Estrada adding Taylor back into a long outstanding multi-party toxic tort suit. Taylor was originally brought into this lawsuit in September of 2004 when Mr. Estrada, a former Taylor-San Angelo employee and his wife, filed their Fifth Amended Petition seeking damages for personal injuries allegedly caused by Mr. Estrada’s exposure to benzene in the workplace. On June 21, 2005, the Estrada’s dismissed their case against Taylor, without prejudice, without any payment or other compensation by Taylor. Mr. Estrada is now deceased. This Seventh Amended Petition now seeks damages for his alleged wrongful death and seeks to avoid the Workers’ Compensation bar to employer liability by pleading gross negligence on the part of Taylor. Taylor filed a timely answer to the lawsuit and subsequently negotiated a settlement with prejudice with the Estradas and has subsequently been dismissed from the suit. The amount of the settlement is not material; however, the settlement is covered by a confidentiality and non-disclosure agreement because the case is proceeding in court against the other defendants.

       On July 31, 2007, a former employee of CBI filed a lawsuit against CBI in Travis County, Texas alleging, among other claims, that CBI discriminated and/or retaliated against him in violation of the Texas Labor Code because he had an on-the-job injury.  CBI has filed an answer to the lawsuit denying all allegations.  There have been no monetary demands or settlement offers.  We are unable to assess the likelihood of an adverse judgment or assess the likely range of possible loss to the Company.

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

     None.
13

PART II


     None of our stock is publicly traded. Parent Holdings has six holders of its common stock and one holder of its series A redeemable preferred stock.


     Parent Holdings, Intermediate Holdings, and AAC are treated as entities under common control. The Selected Financial Data of Parent Holdings prior to its formation date of May 2006 represent entirely those of its wholly-owned subsidiary, Intermediate Holdings and its indirect wholly-owned subsidiary, AAC. For periods subsequent the formation date, other than its series A preferred stock, debt obligation related to the senior PIK notes, related deferred issuance costs and associated accrued liabilities, and related interest expense, net of taxes, all other assets, liabilities, income, expenses and cash flows presented represent those of Parent Holding’s wholly-owned subsidiary Intermediate Holdings and the direct and indirect subsidiaries of Intermediate Holdings. The Selected Financial Data of Intermediate Holdings prior to its formation date of November 2004 represents entirely those of its wholly-owned indirect subsidiary, AAC. For periods subsequent the formation date, other than its debt obligation related to the 10.25% senior discount notes due 2012, related deferred issuance costs and associated accrued liabilities and related interest expense, net of taxes, all other assets, liabilities, income, expenses and cash flows presented represent those of Intermediate Holdings’ wholly-owned indirect subsidiary AAC and the direct and indirect subsidiaries of AAC.

     On March 25, 2004, AAC Acquisition Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of AAC Holding Corp., merged with and into AAC (the “Merger”), with AAC continuing as the surviving corporation and a wholly-owned subsidiary of AAC Holding Corp. In November 2004, AAC Holding Corp. underwent a recapitalization transaction pursuant to which its stockholders exchanged their shares of AAC Holding Corp. common stock for shares of Intermediate Holdings common stock and as a result, AAC Holding Corp. became a wholly owned subsidiary of Intermediate Holdings.

     As a result of the Merger, we have reflected pre-Merger periods (“Predecessor”) for results of operations prior to and including March 25, 2004 and post-Merger periods (“Successor”) for results of operations including and subsequent to March 26, 2004 in our consolidated financial information.

     The Predecessor referred to in the table below is our business as it existed prior to the consummation of the Merger. We completed the Merger as of March 25, 2004 and as a result of adjustments to the carrying value of assets and liabilities resulting from the Merger, the financial position and results of operations for periods subsequent to the Merger may not be comparable to those of our Predecessor company.

     The summary historical consolidated financial data should be read in conjunction with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations”, the consolidated financial statements and the related notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this report. The summary historical consolidated financial data set forth below for, and as of the end of, the fiscal year ended August 30, 2003 and the period from August 31, 2003 to March 25, 2004 have been derived from the Predecessor audited consolidated financial statements. The summary historical consolidated financial data set forth below for and as of the period from March 26, 2004 through August 28, 2004, and the fiscal years ended August 27, 2005, August 26, 2006 and August 25, 2007  has been derived from the Successor audited consolidated financial statements.
14


 
Parent Holdings                
 
 
Successor         
   
Predecessor   
 
                     
The period from
   
The period from
       
 
Fiscal Year Ended      
 
  March 26, 2004
   
August 31, 2003 
 
Fiscal Year Ended
 
   
August 25,
 
August 26,
 
August 27,
 
  to
   
to 
   
August 30,
 
($ in thousands)
 
2007 (1)
 
 2006
 
 2005
 
August 28, 2004(2) 
 
March 25, 2004(3)
   
2003
 
  Statement of Operations Data:
                                       
  Net sales
 
$
   315,736
 
$
   320,910
 
$
  313,788
 
$
    167,350
   
$
   146,721
 
$
  308,431
 
  Cost of sales
   
   140,603
   
   134,258
   
  134,375
   
      83,521
     
     59,857
   
  139,170
 
  Gross profit
   
   175,133
   
   186,652
   
  179,413
   
      83,829
     
     86,864
   
  169,261
 
  Selling, general and administrative expenses
   
   135,831
   
   144,129
   
  144,592
   
      62,647
     
     74,992
   
  129,423
 
  Other charges(4)
   
     28,013
   
               -
   
             -
   
                -
     
               -
   
             -
 
  Operating income
   
     11,289
   
     42,523
   
    34,821
   
      21,182
     
     11,872
   
    39,838
 
  Interest expense, net
   
     59,267
   
     39,331
   
    31,271
   
      10,257
     
     16,455
   
    28,940
 
  Income (loss) before income taxes
   
    (47,978
)  
       3,192
   
      3,550
   
      10,925
     
      (4,583
 
    10,898
 
  Provision (benefit) for income taxes
   
    (15,427
)  
       2,216
   
      1,738
   
        4,459
     
               -
   
         132
 
  Net income (loss)
 
$
    (32,551
)
$
          976
 
$
      1,812
 
$
        6,466
   
$
      (4,583
) 
$
    10,766
 
                                         
  Balance Sheet Data (at end of period):
                                       
  Total assets
 
$
   476,066
 
$
   511,276
 
$
  512,936
 
$
    530,986
   
$
   553,589
 
$
  395,501
 
  Total debt(5)
   
   546,253
   
   535,790
   
  388,492
   
    314,604
     
   317,504
   
  228,928
 
  Total stockholders’ equity (deficit)
   
  (144,183
)  
 (114,786
)  
    23,818
   
    108,512
     
   102,046
   
    71,843
 
                                         
  Other Data:
                                       
  EBITDA(6)
 
$
     36,289
 
$
     67,618
 
$
    60,102
 
$
      31,526
   
$
     20,402
 
$
    53,987
 
  Capital expenditures
   
     10,594
   
     12,511
   
    12,795
   
        3,665
     
     12,793
   
    11,243
 
  Depreciation and amortization
   
     25,000
   
     25,095
   
    25,281
   
      10,344
     
       8,530
   
    14,149
 

15

 
Intermediate Holdings                
 
 
Successor          
 
Predecessor    
                     
The period from
   
The period from
       
 
Fiscal Year Ended      
 
March 26, 2004 
   
August 31, 2003 
 
Fiscal Year Ended
 
   
August 25,
 
August 26,
 
August 27,
 
to 
   
to 
   
August 30,
 
($ in thousands)
 
2007 (1)
 
2006 
 
2005 
 
August 28, 2004(2)
   
March 25, 2004(3)
   
2003
 
  Statement of Operations Data:
                                       
  Net sales
 
$
 315,736
 
$
 320,910
 
$
 313,788
 
$
    167,350
   
$
   146,721
 
$
 308,431
 
  Cost of sales
   
 140,603
   
 134,258
   
 134,375
   
      83,521
     
     59,857
   
 139,170
 
  Gross profit
   
 175,133
   
 186,652
   
 179,413
   
      83,829
     
     86,864
   
 169,261
 
  Selling, general and administrative expenses
   
 135,831
   
 144,129
   
 144,592
   
      62,647
     
     74,992
   
 129,423
 
  Other charges(4)
   
   28,013
   
             -
   
             -
   
                -
     
               -
   
             -
 
  Operating income
   
   11,289
   
   42,523
   
   34,821
   
      21,182
     
     11,872
   
   39,838
 
  Interest expense, net
   
   33,514
   
   34,246
   
   31,271
   
      10,257
     
     16,455
   
   28,940
 
  Income (loss) before income taxes
   
  (22,225
 
     8,277
   
     3,550
   
      10,925
     
      (4,583
 
   10,898
 
  Provision (benefit) for income taxes
   
    (7,233
 
     3,985
   
     1,738
   
        4,459
     
               -
   
        132
 
  Net income (loss)
 
$
  (14,992
) 
$
     4,292
 
$
     1,812
 
$
        6,466
   
$
      (4,583
) 
$
   10,766
 
                                         
  Balance Sheet Data (at end of period):
                                       
  Total assets
 
$
 468,129
 
$
 501,773
 
$
 512,936
 
$
    530,986
   
$
   553,589
 
$
 395,501
 
  Total debt(5)
   
 362,909
   
 374,093
   
 388,492
   
    314,604
     
   317,504
   
 228,928
 
  Total stockholders’ equity
   
   24,876
   
   36,714
   
   23,818
   
    108,512
     
   102,046
   
   71,843
 
                                         
  Other Data:
                                       
  EBITDA(6)
 
$
   36,289
 
$
   67,618
 
$
   60,102
 
$
      31,526
   
$
     20,402
 
$
   53,987
 
  Capital expenditures
   
   10,594
   
   12,511
   
   12,795
   
        3,665
     
     12,793
   
   11,243
 
  Depreciation and amortization
   
   25,000
   
   25,095
   
   25,281
   
      10,344
     
       8,530
   
   14,149
 

16

 
   
AAC                
 
   
Successor         
   
Predecessor   
 
                     
The period from
   
The period from
       
   
Fiscal Year Ended      
 
March 26, 2004 
   
August 31, 2003 
 
Fiscal Year Ended
 
   
August 25,
 
August 26,
 
August 27,
 
to 
   
to 
 
August 30,
 
($ in thousands)
 
2007 (1)
 
2006 
 
2005 
 
August 28, 2004(2)
   
March 25, 2004(3)
 
2003 
 
  Statement of Operations Data:
                                       
  Net sales
 
$
     315,736
 
$
     320,910
 
$
     313,788
 
$
        167,350
   
$
        146,721
 
$
     308,431
 
  Cost of sales
   
     140,603
   
     134,258
   
     134,375
   
          83,521
     
          59,857
   
     139,170
 
  Gross profit
   
     175,133
   
     186,652
   
     179,413
   
          83,829
     
          86,864
   
     169,261
 
  Selling, general and administrative expenses
   
     135,831
   
     144,129
   
     144,592
   
          62,647
     
          74,992
   
     129,423
 
  Other charges(4)
   
       28,013
   
                -
   
                -
   
                    -
     
                   -
   
                -
 
  Operating income
   
       11,289
   
       42,523
   
       34,821
   
          21,182
     
          11,872
   
       39,838
 
  Interest expense, net
   
       22,056
   
       23,289
   
       23,497
   
          10,257
     
          16,455
   
       28,940
 
  Income (loss) before income taxes
   
     (10,767
 
       19,234
   
       11,324
   
          10,925
     
          (4,583
 
       10,898
 
  Provision (benefit) for income taxes
   
       (3,122
 
         7,907
   
         4,617
   
            4,459
     
                   -
   
            132
 
  Net income (loss)
 
$
      (7,645
) 
$
     11,327
 
$
       6,707
 
$
           6,466
   
$
         (4,583
) 
$
     10,766
 
                                         
  Balance Sheet Data (at end of period):
                                       
  Total assets
 
$
     465,319
 
$
     498,542
 
$
     509,552
 
$
        530,986
   
$
        553,589
 
$
     395,501
 
  Total debt(5)
   
     245,055
   
     267,276
   
     291,836
   
        314,604
     
        317,504
   
     228,928
 
  Total stockholders’ equity
   
     129,055
   
     133,546
   
     114,263
   
        108,512
     
        102,046
   
       71,843
 
                                         
  Other Data:
                                       
  EBITDA(6)
 
$
       36,289
 
$
       67,618
 
$
       60,102
 
$
          31,526
   
$
          20,402
 
$
       53,987
 
  Capital expenditures
   
       10,594
   
       12,511
   
       12,795
   
            3,665
     
          12,793
   
       11,243
 
  Depreciation and amortization
   
       25,000
   
       25,095
   
       25,281
   
          10,344
     
            8,530
   
       14,149
 
                                         
(1)
 
Includes the results of Powers from April 1, 2007, the date of our acquisition of Powers.
     
                       
(2)
 
During the period from March 26, 2004 to August 28, 2004, AAC recognized in its consolidated statement of operations approximately $6.4 million of excess purchase price allocated to inventory as cost of sales and approximately $4.3 million of additional amortization expense of intangible assets as selling, general and administrative expenses, as compared to its historical basis of accounting prior to the Merger.
                       
(3)
 
Includes the results of C-B Graduation Announcements from January 30, 2004, the date of our acquisition of C-B Graduation Announcements.
                        
(4)
 
Other charges includes write downs of goodwill, intangible assets, and fixed assets of $22.8 million for the achievement publications segment, $4.9 million for the class rings segment related to goodwill and trademarks in retail class rings, and $0.3 million for the other segment related to trademarks in personalized fashion jewelry, as discussed in "Significant Developments" below.
                                  
(5)
 
Total debt includes all borrowings outstanding under notes, credit facilities, and capital lease obligations.
                                     
(6)
 
EBITDA represents net income (loss) before interest expense, income taxes, depreciation, and amortization. EBITDA does not represent net income or cash flows from operations, as these terms are defined under generally accepted accounting principles, and should not be considered as an alternative to net income as an indicator of our operating performance or to cash flows as a measure of liquidity. Fiscal 2007 EBITDA was unfavorably impacted by other charges of $28.0 million discussed above.

17

     We consider EBITDA to be a key indicator of operating performance as it and similar measures are instrumental in the determination of compliance with certain financial covenants in the senior secured credit facility, and is used by our management in the calculation of the aggregate fee payable under our management agreement and in determining a portion of compensation for certain of our employees. We also believe that EBITDA is useful to investors in evaluating the value of companies in general, and in evaluating the liquidity of companies with debt service obligations and their ability to service their indebtedness.

     EBITDA is not a defined term under GAAP and should not be considered an alternative to operating income or net income as a measure of operating results or cash flows as a measure of liquidity. EBITDA has important limitations as an analytical tool and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of our results as reported under GAAP. For example, EBITDA: (i) does not reflect our cash expenditures, or future requirements, for capital expenditures or contractual commitments; (ii) does not reflect changes in, or cash requirements for, our working capital needs; (iii) does not reflect the significant interest expense, or the cash requirements necessary to service interest or principal payments, on our debts; (iv) excludes tax payments that represent a reduction in cash available to us; and (v) does not reflect any cash requirements for the assets being depreciated and amortized that may have to be replaced in the future. Despite these limitations, we believe that EBITDA is useful since it provides investors with additional information not available in a GAAP presentation. To compensate for these limitations, however, we rely primarily on our GAAP results and use EBITDA only supplementally.
 
The following sets forth a reconciliation of Parent Holdings’ net income (loss) to EBITDA and operating cash flow:
 
 
Parent Holdings                
 
 
Successor         
   
Predecessor   
 
($ in thousands)
                 
The Period from
   
The Period from
 
Fiscal Year
 
 
Fiscal Year Ended      
 
March 26, 2004 —
   
August 31, 2003 —
 
Ended
 
 
August 25,
 
August 26,
 
August 27,
 
August 28,
   
March 25,
 
August 30,
 
 
2007 
 
2006 
 
2005 
 
2004 
   
2004 
 
2003 
 
  Net income (loss)
$
    (32,551
$
           976
 
$
          1,812
 
$
           6,466
   
$
          (4,583
$
      10,766
 
  Interest expense, net of interest income
 
     59,267
   
      39,331
   
       31,271
   
         10,257
     
          16,455
   
     28,940
 
  Provision (benefit) for income taxes
 
    (15,427
 
         2,216
   
         1,738
   
           4,459
     
                     -
   
            132
 
  Depreciation and amortization expense
 
     25,000
   
     25,095
   
      25,281
   
         10,344
     
            8,530
   
       14,149
 
  EBITDA
$
     36,289
 
$
      67,618
 
$
      60,102
 
$
         31,526
   
$
         20,402
 
$
     53,987
 
  Other charges
$
28,013  
$
 
$
 
$
   
$
 
$
 
  Changes in assets and liabilities
 
      (11,791
 
    (14,955
 
         (335
 
      (23,970
 
 
         35,227
 
 
            (92
  Deferred income taxes
 
    (15,506
 
         2,061
   
          1,521
   
           4,309
     
                     -
   
                 -
 
  Interest expense, net
 
   (59,267
 
    (39,331
 
     (31,271
 
       (10,257
)    
        (16,455
 
   (28,940
  (Provision) benefit for income taxes
 
      15,427
   
       (2,216
 
       (1,738
 
         (4,459
   
                     -
   
          (132
  Amortization of debt discount and deferred financing fees
 
         3,491
   
        2,269
   
         1,882
   
              629
     
              1,197
   
         2,051
 
  Accretion of interest on 10.25% senior discount notes
 
       11,037
   
        10,161
   
        7,387
   
                    -
     
                     -
   
                 -
 
  Accretion of senior PIK notes
 
      21,647
   
         4,197
   
                 -
   
                    -
     
                     -
   
                 -
 
  Provision for doubtful accounts
 
         (233
 
         (464
 
          (107
 
            (236
   
              (144
 
         (376
  Loss on operating lease agreement
 
            961
   
                 -
   
                 -
   
                    -
     
                     -
   
                 -
 
  Loss (gain) on sales of plant, property and equipment
 
       (1,989
 
              79
   
                 -
   
                    -
     
                     -
   
                 -
 
  Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
$
     28,079
 
$
      29,419
 
$
      37,441
 
$
         (2,458
 
$
         40,227
 
$
     26,498
 
                                       

18

The following sets forth a reconciliation of Intermediate Holdings’ net income (loss) to EBITDA and operating cash flow:
 
 
Intermediate Holdings                
 
 
Successor         
   
Predecessor   
 
($ in thousands)
                 
The Period from
   
The Period from
 
Fiscal Year
 
 
Fiscal Year Ended      
 
March 26, 2004 —
   
August 31, 2003 —
 
Ended
 
 
August 25,
 
August 26,
 
August 27,
 
August 28,
   
March 25,
 
August 30,
 
 
2007 
 
2006 
 
2005 
 
2004 
   
2004 
 
2003 
 
  Net income (loss)
$
    (14,992
$
        4,292
 
$
          1,812
 
$
           6,466
   
$
          (4,583
$
      10,766
 
  Interest expense, net of interest income
 
      33,514
   
     34,246
   
       31,271
   
         10,257
     
          16,455
   
     28,940
 
  Provision (benefit) for income taxes
 
      (7,233
 
        3,985
   
         1,738
   
           4,459
     
                     -
   
            132
 
  Depreciation and amortization expense
 
     25,000
   
     25,095
   
      25,281
   
         10,344
     
            8,530
   
       14,149
 
  EBITDA
$
     36,289
 
$
      67,618
 
$
      60,102
 
$
         31,526
   
$
         20,402
 
$
     53,987
 
  Other charges
$
28,013    $  
$
 
$
   
$
 
$
 
  Changes in assets and liabilities
 
    (14,369
 
    (15,623
 
         (335
 
      (23,970
 
 
         35,227
 
 
            (92
  Deferred income taxes
 
      (7,274
 
        3,824
   
          1,521
   
           4,309
     
                     -
   
                 -
 
  Interest expense, net
 
    (33,514
 
   (34,246
 
     (31,271
 
       (10,257
   
        (16,455
 
   (28,940
  (Provision) benefit for income taxes
 
        7,233
   
      (3,985
 
       (1,738
 
         (4,459
   
                     -
   
          (132
  Amortization of debt discount and deferred financing fees
 
         1,976
   
         1,959
   
         1,882
   
              629
     
              1,197
   
         2,051
 
  Accretion of interest on 10.25% senior discount notes
 
       11,037
   
        10,161
   
        7,387
   
                    -
     
                     -
   
                 -
 
  Provision for doubtful accounts
 
         (233
 
         (464
 
          (107
 
            (236
   
              (144
 
         (376
  Loss on operating lease agreement
 
            961
   
                 -
   
                 -
   
                    -
     
                     -
   
                 -
 
  Loss (gain) on sales of plant, property and equipment
 
       (1,989
 
              79
   
                 -
   
                    -
     
                     -
   
                 -
 
  Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
$
      28,130
 
$
     29,323
 
$
      37,441
 
$
         (2,458
 
$
         40,227
 
$
     26,498
 
                                       

19

The following sets forth a reconciliation of AAC’s net income (loss) to EBITDA and operating cash flow:
 
 
AAC                
 
 
Successor         
   
Predecessor   
 
($ in thousands)
                 
The Period from
   
The Period from
 
Fiscal Year
 
 
Fiscal Year Ended      
 
March 26, 2004 —
   
August 31, 2003 —
 
Ended
 
 
August 25,
 
August 26,
 
August 27,
 
August 28,
   
March 25,
 
August 30,
 
 
2007 
 
2006 
 
2005 
 
2004 
   
2004 
 
2003 
 
  Net income (loss)
$
       (7,645
$
       11,327
 
$
       6,707
 
$
          6,466
   
$
         (4,583
$
      10,766
 
  Interest expense, net of interest income
 
      22,056
   
     23,289
   
     23,497
   
         10,257
     
         16,455
   
     28,940
 
  Provision (benefit) for income taxes
 
        (3,122
 
       7,907
   
        4,617
   
          4,459
     
                    -
   
            132
 
  Depreciation and amortization expense
 
      25,000
   
     25,095
   
      25,281
   
         10,344
     
           8,530
   
       14,149
 
  EBITDA
$
      36,289
 
$
      67,618
 
$
      60,102
 
$
         31,526
   
$
        20,402
 
$
     53,987
 
  Other charges
$
28,013  
$
 
$
 
$
   
$
 
$ 
 
  Changes in assets and liabilities
 
     (14,382
 
     (16,010
 
         (379
 
      (23,970
 
 
        35,227
 
 
           (92
  Deferred income taxes
 
        (3,150
 
       7,737
   
       4,392
   
          4,309
     
                    -
   
                 -
 
  Interest expense, net
 
    (22,056
 
   (23,289
 
   (23,497
 
       (10,257
   
       (16,455
 
   (28,940
  (Provision) benefit for income taxes
 
          3,122
   
     (7,907
 
      (4,617
 
        (4,459
   
                    -
   
          (132
  Amortization of debt discount and deferred financing fees
 
          1,530
   
        1,498
   
        1,527
   
              629
     
             1,197
   
        2,051
 
  Provision for doubtful accounts
 
          (233
 
         (464
 
          (107
 
            (236
   
             (144
 
         (376
  Loss on operating lease agreement
 
             961
   
                 -
   
                 -
   
                    -
     
                    -
   
                 -
 
  Loss (gain) on sales of plant, property and equipment
 
        (1,989
 
             79
   
                 -
   
                    -
     
                    -
   
                 -
 
  Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
$
       28,105
 
$
     29,262
 
$
      37,421
 
$
        (2,458
 
$
        40,227
 
$
     26,498
 
                                       

20


     The following discussion of our financial condition and results of operations should be read together with our consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes included elsewhere in this report. The consolidated financial statements, and the notes thereto, have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. All amounts are in U.S. dollars except otherwise indicated.

Uncertainty of Forward Looking Statements and Information

     This report contains “forward looking statements.” All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this report that address activities, events or developments that we expect, believe or anticipate will or may occur in the future are forward looking statements. Forward looking statements give our current expectations and projections relating to the financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business of our company. You can identify these statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These statements may include words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe” and other words and terms of similar meaning in connection with any discussion of the timing or nature of future operating or financial performance or other events.

     These forward looking statements are based on our expectations and beliefs concerning future events affecting us. They are subject to uncertainties and factors relating to our operations and business environment, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond our control. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in our forward looking statements are reasonable, we do not know whether our expectations will prove correct. They can be affected by inaccurate assumptions we might make or by known or unknown risks and uncertainties.

General

     We are one of the leading manufacturers and suppliers of class rings, yearbooks, graduation products, achievement publications and recognition products and affinity jewelry in the United States. We market and sell yearbooks to the college, high school, junior high school and elementary markets. We primarily sell our class rings and graduation products, which include fine paper products and graduation accessories, in the high school, college and junior high school markets. Our achievement publications segment produces, markets and sells publications that recognize the achievements of top students at the high school and college levels, as well as the nation’s most inspiring teachers. It consists of various titles including the Who’s Who brand and The National Dean’s List. We also sell jewelry commemorating family events such as the birth of a child, military and fan affinity jewelry and related products, professional sports championship rings such as World Series rings, commercial printing, and letter jackets.

     As fully described under the “Significant Developments” section of Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, on October 26, 2007, the Company decided to shut down the operations of its achievement publications segment.  The shutdown activities are expected to be substantially complete by the end of the first quarter of fiscal 2008.

     Our ability to meet our debt service and other obligations depends in significant part on how successful we are in maintaining our core businesses and further implementing our business strategy. Our business plan envisions several long-term growth initiatives, including the development of new products. The components of our strategy are subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies.

     Numerous raw materials are used in the manufacture of our products. Gold and other metals, precious, semiprecious and synthetic stones, paper products and ink comprise the bulk of the raw materials we utilize in the largest segments of our business. Prices of these materials, especially gold, continually fluctuate. We purchase a majority of our gold from a single supplier, The Bank of Nova Scotia, through our existing gold consignment agreement. We may consign a portion of our gold and pay for gold as our products are shipped to customers. We also purchase the majority of our semi-precious and synthetic stones from a single supplier in Germany. The prices for these products are denominated in Euros. We generally are able to pass on price increases in gold and stones to our customers as such increases are realized by us, however, this may not always be the case.

     We face competition for most of our principal products. The class ring and yearbook markets are highly concentrated and consist primarily of a few national manufacturers (of which we are one) and, to a significantly lesser extent, small regional competitors. We believe that it would be costly and time-consuming for new competitors to replicate the production and distribution capabilities necessary to compete effectively in this market, and as a result, there have been no major new competitors in the last 61 years.
  
21

     We experience seasonal fluctuations in our net sales tied primarily to the school year. We recorded 46% of our fiscal year 2007 net sales in our third quarter. Class ring sales are highest during October through December and early spring, with many orders made for delivery to students before the winter holiday season. Graduation product sales are predominantly made during February through April prior to the April through June graduation season. Yearbook sales are highest during the months of April through June, as yearbooks are typically shipped prior to each school’s summer break. Our recognition and affinity product line sales are seasonal. The majority of our achievement publications are shipped in August of each year. The remaining recognition and affinity product line sales are highest during the winter holiday season and in the period leading up to Mother’s Day. We have experienced operating losses during our first and fourth fiscal quarters, which includes the beginning of the school year and the summer months when school is not in session, thus reducing related shipment of products. In addition, our working capital requirements tend to exceed our operating cash flows from May through September.

     We also have exposure to market risk relating to changes in interest rates on our variable rate debt. Our senior secured credit facility (revolver and term loan) and existing gold consignment agreement are variable rate arrangements.

     Historically, growth in the class rings, yearbooks and graduation products market has been driven primarily by demographics. The U.S. Department of Education projects that the number of high school graduates will increase by an average of 6% over the time period from 2003 to 2016 and the number of college graduates will increase by an average of 22% over the time period from 2003 to 2016. Additionally, the U.S. Census Bureau projects that the total U.S. population will increase by 6% over the time period from 2007 to 2015. Both the increased population, and the increased number of high school and college graduates should expand the market for our products.

Basis of Presentation

     We present financial information relating to Parent Holdings, Intermediate Holdings and AAC and its subsidiaries in this discussion and analysis.  Parent Holdings owns 100% of the shares of common stock of Intermediate Holdings.  Intermediate Holdings owns 100% of the shares of common stock of AAC Holding Corp., which is the holder of 100% of the shares of common stock of AAC.

     The Company uses a 52/53-week fiscal year ending on the last Saturday of August.

Company Background

     Our business was founded when the operations of ArtCarved, which were previously owned by CJC Holdings, Inc., and the operations of Balfour, which were previously owned by L.G. Balfour Company, Inc., were combined through various asset purchase agreements in December 1996. AAC was formed in June 2000 to serve as a holding company for these operations as well as any future acquisitions. In June 2000, we acquired the Taylor Senior Holding Company, the parent company of Taylor Publishing Company (“Taylor”), whose primary business is designing and printing student yearbooks. In March 2001, AAC acquired all of the capital stock of Educational Communications, Inc. (“ECI”), which publishes achievement publications. In July 2002, AAC acquired all the outstanding stock and warrants of Milestone Marketing, a marketer of class rings and other graduation products to the college market. In January 2004, AAC acquired C-B Graduation Announcements, a marketer of graduation products to the college market.  In April 2007, Commemorative Brands, Inc. (“CBI”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of AAC, acquired all of the outstanding stock of BFJ Holdings, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiary, Powers Embroidery, Inc. (“Powers”). Powers is a producer of quality letter jackets, chenille patches and other school spirit embroidery merchandise and is located in Waco, Texas.
  
     On March 25, 2004, AAC Acquisition Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of AAC Holding Corp., merged with and into AAC (the “Merger”), with AAC continuing as the surviving corporation and a wholly-owned subsidiary of AAC Holding Corp. The Merger was financed by a cash equity investment by an investor group led by Fenway Partners Capital Fund II, L.P., borrowings under AAC’s senior secured credit facility and the issuance of AAC’s 8.25% senior subordinated notes due 2012. As a result of the Merger, we have reflected pre-Merger periods (“Predecessor”) for results of operations through March 25, 2004 and post-Merger periods (“Successor”) for results of operations subsequent to March 25, 2004 in our consolidated financial information and statements. In November 2004, AAC Holding Corp. underwent a recapitalization transaction pursuant to which its stockholders exchanged their shares of AAC Holding Corp. common stock for shares of Intermediate Holdings common stock and as a result, AAC Holding Corp. became a wholly owned subsidiary of Intermediate Holdings.

     On November 16, 2004, Intermediate Holdings issued $131.5 million aggregate principal amount at maturity of 10.25% senior discount notes due 2012, generating net proceeds of $89.3 million. Intermediate Holdings is the sole obligor of these notes. The net proceeds of this offering were used as a distribution to stockholders through the repurchase of shares of Intermediate Holdings’ common stock from its stockholders.

22

     On January 18, 2006, Intermediate Holdings entered into a Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement with an investor pursuant to which Intermediate Holdings sold shares of its mandatory redeemable series A preferred stock. In connection with this transaction, Intermediate Holdings issued the investor 7,500 shares of the mandatory redeemable series A preferred stock for an aggregate purchase price of $7.5 million, which the investor paid to Intermediate Holdings in cash. The holders of the mandatory redeemable series A preferred stock are entitled to receive cumulative dividends at a rate of 14% per year, when, as and if declared by the Board of Directors of Intermediate Holdings.      

     On May 8, 2006, the holders of outstanding stock of Intermediate Holdings, agreed to form a new holding company for Intermediate Holdings, and on May 30, 2006, reached agreement for their new company, Parent Holdings, to affect a stock exchange with Intermediate Holdings. Pursuant to that agreement, each holder of common stock of Intermediate Holdings contributed each of their shares of such stock then held to Parent Holdings in exchange for a new share of common stock of Parent Holdings and each holder of series A redeemable preferred stock of Intermediate Holdings contributed each of their shares of such stock then held to the Parent Holdings in exchange for a new share of series A redeemable preferred stock of Parent Holdings. Each new share of capital stock received in such contribution and exchange had the same rights, preferences and privileges as the corresponding share of stock of Intermediate Holdings that was contributed to Parent Holdings. As a result of the foregoing recapitalization, Intermediate Holdings became a wholly owned subsidiary of Parent Holdings.
     
     On June 12, 2006, Parent Holdings issued $150.0 million principal amount of senior PIK notes due October 1, 2012. The net proceeds of this offering were used to pay a $140.5 million dividend to the stockholders of Parent Holdings.  Because EBITDA fell below certain target levels for the four quarters ended February 24, 2007, the rate at which interest accrues on the senior PIK Notes was increased by 2.00% per annum, to a rate of 14.75%, commencing on and including February 24, 2007. If the consolidated group leverage ratio on August 30, 2008, is greater than 5.0 to 1.0, the rate at which interest accrues on the senior PIK notes will increase an additional 2.00% per annum commencing on and including August 30, 2008.  At August 25, 2007, our consolidated group leverage ratio was 7.6.  The senior PIK notes are the unsecured senior obligation of Parent Holdings and are not guaranteed by Intermediate Holdings or any of its subsidiaries.

     Other than the series A preferred stock, debt obligations, related deferred debt issuance costs, associated accrued liabilities and related interest expense, net of taxes, all other assets, liabilities, income, expenses and cash flows presented for all periods represent those of Parent Holdings and Intermediate Holdings’ wholly-owned indirect subsidiary AAC and the direct and indirect subsidiaries of AAC. Intermediate Holdings’ only direct subsidiary is AAC Holding Corp., whose sole asset is the stock of AAC. AAC, Intermediate Holdings and Parent Holdings are treated as entities under common control.

23

Critical Accounting Policies

     We prepare our consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. As such, we are required to make certain estimates, judgments and assumptions that we believe are reasonable based upon the information available. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the periods presented. The significant accounting policies which we believe are the most critical to aid in fully understanding and evaluating our reported financial results include the following:

     Sales Returns and Allowances. We make estimates of potential future product returns related to current period product revenue. We analyze the previous 12 months’ average historical returns, current economic trends and changes in customer demand and acceptance of our products when evaluating the adequacy of the sales returns and allowances. Significant management judgments and estimates must be made and used in connection with establishing the allowance for sales returns and allowances in any accounting period. Product returns as a percentage of net sales were 2.3%, 2.0% and 1.9% for the fiscal years 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively. A ten percent increase in product returns would result in a reduction of annual net sales of approximately $0.7 million, based on fiscal year end 2007 rates. Material differences could result in the amount and timing of our revenue for any period if we made different judgments or utilized different estimates.
     
     Allowance for Doubtful Accounts and Reserve on Independent Sales Representative Advances. We make estimates of potentially uncollectible customer accounts receivable and receivables arising from independent sales representative advances paid in excess of earned commissions. Our reserves are based on an analysis of individual customer and salesperson accounts and historical write-off experience. Our analysis includes the age of the receivable, customer or salesperson creditworthiness and general economic conditions. Write-offs of doubtful accounts as a percentage of net sales were 0.4%, 0.3% and 0.4% for the fiscal years 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively. Write-offs of independent sales representative advances as a percentage of net sales were 0.6%, 0.7% and 0.5% for the fiscal years ended 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively. A ten percent increase in write-offs of doubtful accounts and independent sales representative advances would result in an increase in expense of approximately $0.1 million and $0.2 million, respectively, based on fiscal year ended 2007 rates. We believe that our results could be materially different if historical trends do not reflect actual results or if economic conditions worsened.

 Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. We account for our long-lived assets with indefinite lives under Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets” (“SFAS 142”). Under SFAS 142 we are required to test goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives for impairment annually, or more frequently if impairment indicators occur. The impairment test requires management to make judgments in connection with identifying reporting units, assigning assets and liabilities to reporting units and determining fair value of each reporting unit. Significant judgments required to estimate the fair value of reporting units include projecting future cash flows, determining appropriate discount rates and other assumptions. The projections are based on historical performance and future estimated results. As of August 25, 2007, a third party valuation, among other factors, was used by management in our impairment analysis of other intangible assets values and the residual goodwill.

     As fully described under “Significant Developments” below, during fiscal 2007 we recorded an impairment of our goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives of $26.8 million, related to three of our reporting units.  We believe that we had no other impairment as of August 25, 2007 and August 26, 2006; however, unforeseen future events could adversely affect the reported value of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets. As of August 25, 2007, Parent Holdings’ goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets totaled $210.7 million and represented 44% of total assets and (146)% of stockholders' deficit. As of August 25, 2007, Intermediate Holdings’ goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets totaled $210.7 million and represented 45% of total assets and 847% of stockholders' equity. As of August 25, 2007, AAC’s goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets totaled $210.7 million and represented 45% of total assets and 163% of stockholders' equity.
     
24

     Long-lived Tangible and Intangible Assets with Definite Lives. We test our long-lived tangible and intangible assets with definite lives for impairment under SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets” (“SFAS 144”), which requires us to review long-lived tangible and intangible assets with definite lives whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of these assets is measured by comparison of its carrying amount to the future undiscounted cash flows the assets are expected to generate. If long-lived assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized equals the amount by which the carrying value of the assets exceeds its fair market value and is recorded in the period the determination is made. In applying this standard, assets are grouped and evaluated at the lowest level for which there are identifiable cash flows that are largely independent of the cash flows of other groups of assets. We consider historical performance and future estimated results in evaluation of impairment. If the carrying amount of the asset exceeds expected undiscounted future cash flows, we measure the amount of impairment by comparing the carrying amount of the asset to its fair value, generally measured by discounting expected future cash flows at the rate we utilize to evaluate potential investments. As of August 25, 2007, a third party valuation, among other factors, was used in our impairment analysis of long-lived tangible and intangible assets with definite lives.
    
     As fully described under “Significant Developments” below, during fiscal 2007 we recorded a $1.2 million impairment of long-lived tangible assets in our achievement publications segment. We believe that we had no other impairment to our long-lived tangible and intangible assets with definite lives as of August 25, 2007 and August 26, 2006; however, unforeseen future events could adversely affect the reported value of long-lived tangible and intangible assets with definite lives. As of August 25, 2007, Parent Holdings’ long-lived tangible and intangible assets with definite lives totaled $157.1 million and represented 33% of total assets and (109)% of stockholders' deficit. As of August 25, 2007, Intermediate Holdings’ long-lived tangible and intangible assets with definite lives totaled approximately $149.5 million and represented 32% of total assets and 601% of stockholders' equity. As of August 25, 2007, AAC’s long-lived tangible and intangible assets with definite lives totaled approximately $147.2 million and represented 32% of total assets and 114% of stockholders' equity.

     Revenue Recognition. Our revenues from product sales are generally recognized at the time the product is shipped, the risks and rewards of ownership have passed to the customer and collectibility is reasonably assured. Our stated shipping terms are FOB shipping point. Provisions for sales returns, warranty costs and rebate expenses are recorded based upon historical information and current trends.

     Our accounting method for recognizing revenue and related gross profit on class ring sales through independent sales representatives, along with commissions to independent sales representatives that are directly related to the revenue, is to defer the revenue until the independent sales representative delivers the product to the end customer.

     We recognize revenue on our publishing operations based upon the completed contract method, when the products are shipped.
 
     Income Taxes.  As part of the process of preparing consolidated financial statements, we must assess the likelihood that our deferred income tax assets will be recovered through future taxable income.  To the extent we believe that recovery is not likely, a valuation allowance must be established.  Significant management judgment is required in determining any valuation allowance recorded against net deferred income tax assets.  Based on our estimates of taxable income in each jurisdiction in which we operate and the period over which deferred income tax assets will be recoverable, we have not recorded a valuation allowance as of August 25, 2007 or August 26, 2006.  In the event that actual results differ from these estimates or we make adjustments to these estimates in future periods, we may need to establish a valuation allowance.

Significant Developments

Following are some significant developments in 2007.
 
In the fourth quarter 2007 we recorded $28.0 million in impairment charges of which $22.8 million was in our achievement publications segment, $4.9 million was in the class rings segment related to retail class rings, and $0.3 million was in our other business segment related to personalized fashion jewelry.
 
The financial performance of our achievement publications segment took a significant downturn in 2007, with sales declining from $21.0 million in 2006 to $5.1 million in 2007. In addition, operating income declined from $1.6 million in 2006 to a loss before impairment charges of $6.3 million in 2007.  Late in the fourth quarter of 2007, as the results of solicitation mailings made in May and June became known, it was clear that student and teacher responses were coming in well below what was anticipated and necessary to support profitable operations.

Given the decline in operating income in 2006 from that in 2005 of $4.9 million and the significantly worsening financial results in 2007, we began to evaluate strategic options for our achievement publications business late in the fourth quarter of 2007. We considered plausible alternatives which included continuing to operate the business, selling it, or shutting it down. After carefully considering the risks of continuing to operate this business and the investment required to do so, management determined in August 2007 that the risks of continuing to operate this business outweighed the probable benefits. Additionally, management and the Board of Directors wanted to focus our efforts around the core businesses that offered the most opportunity for continued growth and earnings.

Accordingly, in August 2007, management was considering two options related to the achievement publications business, which were to sell the business or to shut the business down if there was no definitive interest from any parties to buy the business.
25

     During August through October 2007 we had discussions with potential buyers of the business.  We received only one bona fide indication of interest to buy but even this offer did not place any definitive value on the business other than multi-year earn-out provisions that would have required continued management focus. Accordingly, after evaluating the risks and rewards associated with this offer, management and the Board of Directors decided not to accept this offer.  The continued pursuit of the sale option would have required us to continue to operate the business and incur significant up-front operating cash costs without any potential cash inflows from revenues occurring until the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008.  Accordingly, we decided not to pursue the sale option any further and, on October 26, 2007, management proposed and the Board of Directors approved the shut down of our achievement publications business.

The sale or shutdown options being pursued at fiscal 2007 year end constituted a triggering event requiring that the assets of our achievement publications segment be tested for recoverability in accordance with SFAS 144 and SFAS 142.  This analysis indicated that an impairment in goodwill, trademarks, and tangible assets existed as of August 25, 2007.  We recorded a charge in August 2007 of $22.8 million, of which $12.1 million reduced the carrying value of trademarks, $9.5 million reduced the carrying value of goodwill, and $1.2 million reduced the carrying value of fixed assets. This charge is included in other charges in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.  Additionally, as a consequence of the decision in October 2007 to shutdown the achievement publications business, in the first quarter of fiscal 2008, we anticipate additional impairment charges of approximately $5.0-$6.0 million and cash charges of approximately $0.5-$1.0 million related to contract termination, committed scholarships and employee severance costs.

Under the provisions of SFAS 142, we test goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles for impairment on an annual basis or more frequently if impairment indicators occur. As a result of the annual impairment review performed in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007, we recorded an impairment of $4.9 million related to goodwill and trademarks in our retail class rings business that is included in our class rings business segment and $0.3 million related to trademarks in our personalized fashion jewelry business that is included in our other business segment to adjust the carrying value to the current net realizable value. These charges are included in other charges in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.  The goodwill impairment in retail class rings was primarily due to lower revenue forecasts reflecting the softness in the retail jewelry market serving class rings and the continued consolidation in the independent jeweler segment. However, significant judgments were required in the preparation of our forecasts.  Unforeseen future events could adversely affect such forecasts and thereby the reported value of goodwill and trademarks in the future.
 
      The annual impairment review performed in our other businesses did not reveal any impairment as we forecast continued profitable performance in all our core on-campus businesses and our other retail businesses.

In April 2007, CBI acquired all of the outstanding stock of BFJ Holdings, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiary, Powers. Powers is a producer of quality letter jackets, chenille patches and other school spirit embroidery merchandise, located in Waco, Texas. The purchase price in connection with this acquisition was approximately $6.2 million, including transaction costs, with up to $1.5 million additional to be paid upon achieving certain financial goals through August 2010. The Powers acquisition was accounted for using the purchase method of accounting.

26

Results of Operations

The comparative results are presented and discussed for Parent Holdings, Intermediate Holdings, and AAC for fiscal years 2007, 2006 and 2005.
 
 
Parent Holdings             
 
Fiscal Year Ended
 
% of
 
Fiscal Year Ended
 
% of
 
Fiscal Year Ended
% of
 
 
August 25, 2007 
 
Net Sales
 
August 26, 2006 
 
Net Sales
 
August 27, 2005 
 
Net Sales
 
 
($ in millions)            
 
  Net sales
$
            315.7
 
  100.0 %
 
$
          320.9
 
100.0%
 
$
         313.8
 
100.0%
 
  Cost of sales
 
            140.6
 
    44.5 %
   
          134.3
 
41.8%
   
         134.4
 
42.8%
 
  Gross profit
 
            175.1
 
    55.5 %
   
          186.6
 
58.2%
   
         179.4
 
57.2%
 
  Selling, general and administrative expenses
 
            135.8
 
    43.0 %
   
          144.1
 
44.9%
   
         144.6
 
46.1%
 
  Other charges
 
              28.0
 
      8.9 %
   
                -
 
0.0%
   
               -
 
0.0%
 
  Operating income
 
              11.3
 
      3.6 %
   
            42.5
 
13.3%
   
           34.8
 
11.1%
 
  Interest expense, net
 
              59.3
 
    18.8 %
   
            39.3
 
12.3%
   
           31.3
 
10.0%
 
  Income (loss) before income taxes
 
            (48.0
   (15.2)%
   
              3.2
 
1.0%
   
             3.5
 
1.1%
 
  Provision (benefit) for income taxes
 
            (15.4
     (4.9)%
   
              2.2
 
0.7%
   
             1.7
 
0.5%
 
  Net income (loss)
$
            (32.6
   (10.3)%
 
$
              1.0
 
0.3%
 
$
             1.8
 
0.6%
 
 
 
 
Intermediate Holdings             
 
Fiscal year ended
 
% of
 
Fiscal year ended
 
% of
 
Fiscal year ended
% of
 
 
August 25, 2007 
 
Net Sales
 
August 26, 2006 
 
Net Sales
 
August 27, 2005 
 
Net Sales
 
 
($ in millions)            
 
  Net sales
$
            315.7
 
100.0%
 
$
          320.9
 
100.0%
 
$
         313.8
 
100.0%
 
  Cost of sales
 
            140.6
 
44.5%
   
          134.3
 
41.8%
   
         134.4
 
42.8%
 
  Gross profit
 
            175.1
 
55.5%
   
          186.6
 
58.2%
   
         179.4
 
57.2%
 
  Selling, general and administrative expenses
 
            135.8
 
43.0%
   
          144.1
 
44.9%
   
         144.6
 
46.1%
 
  Other charges
 
              28.0
 
8.9%
   
                -
 
0.0%
   
               -
 
0.0%
 
  Operating income
 
              11.3
 
3.6%
   
            42.5
 
13.3%
   
           34.8
 
11.1%
 
  Interest expense, net
 
              33.5
 
10.6%
   
            34.2
 
10.7%
   
           31.3
 
10.0%
 
  Income (loss) before income taxes
 
            (22.2
(7.0)%
   
              8.3
 
2.6%
   
             3.5
 
1.1%
 
  Provision (benefit) for income taxes
 
              (7.2
(2.3)%
   
              4.0
 
1.3%
   
             1.7
 
0.5%
 
  Net income (loss)
$
            (15.0
(4.7)%
 
$
              4.3
 
1.3%
 
$
             1.8
 
0.6%
 

 
AAC             
 
Fiscal year ended
 
% of
 
Fiscal year ended
 
% of
 
Fiscal year ended
% of
 
 
August 25, 2007 
 
Net Sales
 
August 26, 2006 
 
Net Sales
 
August 27, 2005 
 
Net Sales
 
 
($ in millions)            
 
  Net sales
$
            315.7
 
100.0%
 
$
          320.9
 
100.0%
 
$
         313.8
 
100.0%
 
  Cost of sales
 
            140.6
 
44.5%
   
          134.3
 
41.8%
   
         134.4
 
42.8%
 
  Gross profit
 
            175.1
 
55.5%
   
          186.6
 
58.2%
   
         179.4
 
57.2%
 
  Selling, general and administrative expenses
 
            135.8
 
43.0%
   
          144.1
 
44.9%
   
         144.6
 
46.1%
 
  Other charges
 
              28.0
 
8.9%
   
                -
 
0.0%
   
               -
 
0.0%
 
  Operating income
 
              11.3
 
3.6%
   
            42.5
 
13.3%
   
           34.8
 
11.1%
 
  Interest expense, net
 
              22.0
 
7.0%
   
            23.3
 
7.3%
   
           23.5
 
7.5%
 
  Income (loss) before income taxes
 
            (10.7
(3.4)%
   
            19.2
 
6.0%
   
           11.3
 
3.6%
 
  Provision (benefit) for income taxes
 
              (3.1
(1.0)%
   
              7.9
 
2.5%
   
             4.6
 
1.5%
 
  Net income (loss)
$
              (7.6
(2.4)%
 
$
            11.3
 
3.5%
 
$
             6.7
 
2.1%
 

27

Fiscal Year Ended August 25, 2007 Compared to Fiscal Year Ended August 26, 2006

Net Sales. Net sales consist of product sales and are net of product returns and promotional discounts. Net sales decreased $5.2 million, or 1.6%, to $315.7 million in fiscal 2007 from $320.9 million in fiscal 2006. The decrease was primarily attributable to lower sales in achievement publications and retail class rings, partially offset by stronger sales of on-campus class rings, personalized family jewelry, commercial printing, graduation products, yearbooks, and sales of letter jackets attributed to the acquisition of Powers in April 2007.

     Class Rings. Net sales increased $1.5 million to $120.9 million in fiscal 2007 from $119.4 million in fiscal 2006. The increase in net sales from class rings was the result of a $4.2 million increase in on-campus class ring sales, partially offset by a decline of $2.7 million in retail high school class ring sales. The increase in on-campus class ring sales was primarily due to price increases, new products and improved sales of championship rings.  These increases were partially offset by a volume decrease due to a number of schools starting one or two weeks later in 2007 than in 2006 and the change in product sales mix caused by continuing increases in gold prices, causing buyers to purchase lower priced non-gold rings.  The decline in retail sales of high school class rings was driven by the continuing softness in the retail jewelry market, the declining number of independent jewelers and the change in product mix.

     Yearbooks. Net sales increased $0.3 million to $115.2 million in fiscal 2007 from $114.9 million in fiscal 2006. The increase in net sales was primarily the result of an increase in yearbook contracts shipped, partially offset by a decline in average contract value as a result of pricing pressures in the smaller book segment of the yearbook market.

     Graduation Products. Net sales increased $0.5 million to $44.4 million in fiscal 2007 from $43.9 million in fiscal 2006. The increase was mainly due to an increase in shipments of graduation products, primarily due to increases in sales of college graduation products.

 Achievement Publications. Net sales decreased $15.8 million to $5.1 million in fiscal 2007 from $21.0 million in fiscal 2006.  The severe decline in sales of achievement publications and collateral of $8.0 million was primarily a result of solicitation mailings to students and teachers that occurred in the fourth quarter, which yielded a dramatic unexpected decline in book and collateral purchase response rate from the comparable mailings made during the second and third quarters of fiscal 2006.  Net sales also decreased $5.5 million as a result of only publishing one Who’s Who Among American High School Students, our publication honoring high school students, in fiscal 2007 and an additional decline in net sales of $2.3 million as a result of not publishing the National Dean’s List in fiscal 2007.  The National Dean’s List publication will ship in the first quarter of fiscal 2008 and net sales will be approximately $1.2 million compared to $2.3 million for the 2006 publication.

     Other. Net sales increased $8.3 million to $30.0 million in fiscal 2007 from $21.7 million in fiscal 2006. The increase in net sales was the result of increased shipments of personalized fashion jewelry of $2.5 million primarily resulting from continued expansion of our personalized family jewelry products in the mass merchant channels and from a favorable competitive environment, $2.5 million of sales of letter jackets related to the acquisition of Powers in April 2007, a $2.0 million increase in commercial book sales, with the remaining increase resulting from increased sales of military rings and professional sports championship rings.

28

Gross Profit. Gross margin represents gross profit as a percentage of net sales. Gross margin was 55.5% in fiscal 2007, a 2.7% percentage point decrease from 58.2% in fiscal 2006. Overall, gross profit decreased $11.5 million, or 6.2%. The decrease in gross profit was a result of several factors including the following:
·  
$13.4 million decline in achievement publications gross profit directly related to the decline in net sales and the increase in cost per publication
·  
$1.9 million decline in retail class rings gross profit directly related to the decline in net sales, the change in product sales mix resulting from continuing increases in gold costs and the impact of the gold price increases

These decreases in gross profit were partially offset by the following:
·  
$1.6 million increase in graduation products gross profit, mainly due to cost benefits resulting from continuing manufacturing improvements and a $0.7 million write-off of obsolete graduation products inventory in fiscal 2006
·  
$0.3 million improvement in yearbooks gross profit resulting mainly from efficiencies from continuous improvements in our manufacturing process, including ongoing investments in equipment and technology
·  
$1.0 million increase in on-campus ring sales gross profit, primarily related to increased revenue partially offset by the impact of gold price increases
·  
$1.0 million increase in other segment gross profit of which $0.7 is attributable to the Powers acquisition and the remaining increase is mainly due to higher sales offset by unfavorable product mix

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $8.3 million to $135.8 million in fiscal 2007 from $144.1 million in fiscal 2006.  Included in selling, general and administrative expenses are two sub-categories: selling and marketing expenses and general and administrative expenses. Selling and marketing expenses decreased $5.5 million to $95.6 million or 30.3% of net sales, in fiscal 2007 from $101.1 million or 31.5% of net sales, in fiscal 2006. The decrease in selling and marketing expenses was primarily the result of:
·  
$4.7 million decrease in marketing expenses for achievement publications directly related to producing only one Who’s Who Among American High School Students publications in fiscal 2007 as well as not publishing the National Dean’s List in fiscal 2007
·  
$1.3 million decrease in yearbook marketing primarily due to the elimination of the official yearbook college program expenses that were incurred in fiscal 2006 and reduced field sales expenses

These decreases were partially offset by $0.5 million in increased yearbook commissions and an additional increase of $0.5 million related to sales and marketing expenses incurred in the commercial books area due to an increase in the number of sales representatives.

General and administrative expenses in fiscal 2007 were $40.2 million, or 12.7% of net sales, as compared to $43.0 million, or 13.4% of net sales, in fiscal 2006. The $2.8 million decrease in general and administrative expenses was primarily the result of:
·  
$2.0 million gain on the sale of the frontage property located at our Austin, Texas facility
·  
$1.6 million decrease in legal settlement costs and legal fees related to the settlement with Frederick Goldman, Inc., in fiscal 2006
·  
$0.9 million decrease of legal and professional fees and expenses paid in connection with the investigation of potential acquisitions in fiscal 2006
.
These decreases in general and administrative expenses were partially offset by:
·  
$0.8 million increase of fees paid to independent consultants in connection with the design and partial implementation of our information technology system and assistance in becoming ready to comply with Sarbanes-Oxley requirements in fiscal 2008
·  
$0.5 million increase of management fees and expenses
·  
$0.4 million increase in professional fees

Other Charges. As described in “Significant Developments” above, other charges in fiscal 2007 consist of impairment charges of $22.8 million in our achievement publications segment, $4.9 million in our class rings segment related to retail class rings, and $0.3 million related to personalized fashion jewelry included in our other segment.

29

Operating Income. As a result of the foregoing, operating income was $11.3 million, or 3.6% of net sales, for fiscal 2007 as compared with operating income of $42.5 million, or 13.3% of net sales, for fiscal 2006. The class rings segment reported operating income of $7.8 million for fiscal 2007 as compared with operating income of $13.5 million for fiscal 2006. The yearbooks segment reported operating income of $25.2 million for fiscal 2007 as compared with operating income of $23.8 million for fiscal 2006. The graduation products segment reported operating income of $6.4 million for fiscal 2007 as compared with operating income of $3.3 million for fiscal 2006. The achievement publications segment reported an operating loss of $29.1 million for fiscal 2007 as compared with operating income of $1.6 million for fiscal 2006. The other segment reported operating income of $1.0 million for fiscal 2007 as compared with operating income of $0.3 million for fiscal 2006.

Interest Expense, Net.  For Parent Holdings, net interest expense was $59.3 million for fiscal 2007 and $39.3 million for fiscal 2006. The average debt outstanding of Parent Holdings for fiscal 2007 and fiscal 2006 was $540 million and $418 million, respectively.  The increase in average debt outstanding was due to the senior PIK notes being outstanding for the full fiscal year 2007. The weighted average interest rate on debt outstanding of Parent Holdings for fiscal 2007 and fiscal 2006 was 10.6% and 8.8%, respectively.

     For Intermediate Holdings, net interest expense was $33.5 million for fiscal 2007 and $34.2 million for fiscal 2006. The average debt outstanding of Intermediate Holdings for fiscal 2007 and fiscal 2006 was $368 million and $383 million, respectively. The weighted average interest rate on debt outstanding of Intermediate Holdings for fiscal 2007 and fiscal 2006 was 8.7% and 8.4%, respectively.

     For AAC, net interest expense was $22.0 million for fiscal 2007 and $23.3 million for fiscal 2006. The average debt outstanding of AAC for fiscal 2007 and fiscal 2006 was $256 million and $281 million, respectively. The weighted average interest rate on debt outstanding of AAC for fiscal 2007 and fiscal 2006 was 8.0% and 7.8%, respectively.

Provision (Benefit) for Income Taxes.  For fiscal 2007 and fiscal 2006, Parent Holdings recorded an income tax benefit of $15.4 million and an income tax provision of $2.2 million, respectively, which represents an effective tax rate of 32% (benefit) and 69% (provision), respectively. The effective tax rates for fiscal 2007 and 2006, respectively, vary from the statutory federal rate due to the impact of state income taxes and the non-deductibility of a portion of its interest on high-yield debt.
     
     For fiscal 2007 and fiscal 2006, Intermediate Holdings recorded an income tax benefit of $7.2 million and an income tax provision of $4.0 million, respectively, which represents an effective tax rate of 33% (benefit) and 48% (provision), respectively. The effective tax rates for fiscal 2007 and 2006, respectively, vary from the statutory federal rate due to the impact of state income taxes and the non-deductibility of a portion of its interest on high-yield debt.

     For fiscal 2007 and fiscal 2006, AAC recorded an income tax benefit of $3.1 million and an income tax provision of $7.9 million, respectively, which represents an effective tax rate of 29% (benefit) and 41% (provision), respectively. The effective tax rates for the fiscal 2007 and 2006 vary from the statutory federal tax rate due to the impact of state income taxes.

Fiscal Year Ended August 26, 2006 Compared to Fiscal Year Ended August 27, 2005

Net Sales. Net sales consist of product sales and are net of product returns and promotional discounts. Net sales increased $7.1 million, or 2.3%, to $320.9 million for fiscal 2006 from $313.8 million for fiscal 2005. The increase was primarily attributable to stronger sales of on-campus class rings, graduation products and yearbooks, as well as, price increases.

     The following details the changes in net sales during such periods by business segment.

     Class Rings. Net sales decreased $0.3 million to $119.4 million for fiscal 2006 from $119.7 million for fiscal 2005. The decrease in net sales was the result of a $2.6 million decline in shipments of retail high school class rings, partially offset by a $2.3 million increase in on-campus class ring shipments.

     Yearbooks. Net sales increased $2.5 million to $114.9 million for fiscal 2006 from $112.4 million for fiscal 2005. The increase in net sales was mainly the result of an increase in the average contract value of yearbooks.

     Graduation Products. Net sales increased $3.9 million to $43.9 million for fiscal 2006 from $40.0 million for fiscal 2005. The increase was a result of an increase in graduation product shipments and price enhancements.

30

     Achievement Publications. Net sales increased $0.9 million to $21.0 million for fiscal 2006 from $20.1 million for fiscal 2005. The increase in net sales was the result of an increase in the publication sales of Who’s Who Among American High School Students, our publication honoring exceptional high school students, which was published in October 2005 and August 2006 of fiscal 2006, partially offset by a decline in other publication sales.

     Other. Net sales increased $0.1 million to $21.7 million for fiscal 2006 from $21.6 million for fiscal 2005. The increase in net sales was mainly the result of increased shipments of personalized fashion jewelry, offset by a decline on other recognition and affinity ring products.

Gross Profit. Gross margin represents gross profit as a percentage of net sales. Gross margin was 58.2% for fiscal 2006, a 1.0 percentage point increase from 57.2% for fiscal 2005. Overall, gross profit increased $7.2 million, or 4.0%. The increase in gross margin was mainly a result of increased sales and continued efficiency gains in our ring and yearbook facilities. These efficiencies were directly related to the closure and consolidation of a ring manufacturing facility, capital investments in printing equipment and technology in our yearbook operations and continued lean manufacturing improvements in all facilities. These efficiencies were partially offset by higher gold costs and approximately $0.8 million of costs associated with the closure of a yearbook manufacturing facility.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $0.5 million to $144.1 million for fiscal 2006 from $144.6 million for fiscal 2005. Included in selling, general and administrative expenses are two sub-categories: selling and marketing expenses and general and administrative expenses. Selling and marketing expenses increased $1.6 million to $101.1 million or 31.5% of net sales, for fiscal 2006 from $99.5 million or 31.7% of net sales, for fiscal 2005. The increase in selling and marketing expenses was primarily the result of increased commission expenses related directly to the increased net sales of on-campus high school class rings, yearbooks and graduation products and increased marketing expenses related to the achievement publications. The increase was partially offset by decreased marketing costs of yearbooks, as a result of the costs in the prior year of launching the official yearbook college program and recognition and affinity jewelry.

     General and administrative expenses for fiscal 2006 were $43.0 million, or 13.4% of net sales, as compared to $45.1 million, or 14.4% of net sales, for fiscal 2005. The decrease in general and administrative expenses was the result of reduced medical costs, other administrative savings and a one-time management bonus of $2.2 million in fiscal 2005, partially offset by non-recurring professional fees and a $1.0 million legal settlement paid to Frederick Goldman, Inc.

Operating Income. As a result of the foregoing, operating income was $42.5 million, or 13.3% of net sales, for fiscal 2006 as compared with operating income of $34.8 million, or 11.1% of net sales, for fiscal 2005. The class rings segment reported operating income of $13.5 million for fiscal 2006 as compared with operating income of $10.4 million for fiscal 2005. The yearbooks segment reported operating income of $23.8 million for fiscal 2006 as compared with operating income of $16.6 million for fiscal 2005. The graduation products segment reported operating income of $3.3 million for fiscal 2006 as compared with operating income of $3.1 million for fiscal 2005. The achievement publications segment reported operating income of $1.6 million for fiscal 2006 as compared with operating income of $4.9 million for fiscal 2005. The other segment reported operating income of $0.3 million for fiscal 2006 as compared with an operating loss of $0.2 million for fiscal 2005.

Interest Expense, Net. For Parent Holdings, net interest expense was $39.3 million for fiscal 2006 and $31.3 million for fiscal 2005. The average debt outstanding of Parent Holdings for fiscal 2006 and fiscal 2005 was $418 million and $385 million, respectively. The weighted average interest rate on debt outstanding of Parent Holdings for fiscal 2006 and fiscal 2005 was 8.8% and 7.7%, respectively.

     For Intermediate Holdings, net interest expense was $34.2 million for fiscal 2006 and $31.3 million for fiscal 2005. The average debt outstanding of Intermediate Holdings for fiscal 2006 and fiscal 2005 was $383 million and $385 million, respectively. The weighted average interest rate on debt outstanding of Intermediate Holdings for fiscal 2006 and fiscal 2005 was 8.4% and 7.7%, respectively.

     For AAC, net interest expense was $23.3 million for fiscal 2006 and $23.5 million for fiscal 2005. The average debt outstanding of AAC for fiscal 2006 and fiscal 2005 was $281 million and $311 million, respectively. The weighted average interest rate on debt outstanding of AAC for fiscal 2006 and fiscal 2005 was 7.8% and 7.1%, respectively.
     
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Provision for Income Taxes. For fiscal 2006 and fiscal 2005, Parent Holdings recorded an income tax provision of $2.2 million and $1.7 million, respectively, which represents an effective tax rate of 69% and 49%, respectively. The 69% and 49% effective tax rates for fiscal 2006 and 2005, respectively, exceeds the statutory federal rate due to the impact of state income taxes and the non-deductibility of a portion of its interest on high-yield debt.

     For fiscal 2006 and fiscal 2005, Intermediate Holdings recorded an income tax provision of $4.0 million and $1.7 million, respectively, which represents an effective tax rate of 48% and 49%, respectively. The 48% and 49% effective tax rates for fiscal 2006 and 2005, respectively, exceeds the statutory federal rate due to the impact of state income taxes and the non-deductibility of a portion of its interest on high-yield debt.

     For fiscal 2006 and fiscal 2005, AAC recorded an income tax provision of $7.9 million and $4.6 million, respectively, which represents an effective tax rate of 41% for each year. The effective tax rates for the fiscal 2006 and 2005 exceed the statutory federal tax rate due to the impact of state income taxes.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

     Operating Activities.  Operating activities provided $28.1 million of cash during fiscal 2007 after servicing $21.0 million in interest payments compared to $29.4 million during fiscal 2006 after servicing $23.4 million in interest payments. The higher earnings in business segments other than the achievement publications and lower interest payments were more than offset by significantly poor earnings of the achievement publications segment.  Additionally, higher working capital to support our business was partially offset by a decline in customer deposits in fiscal 2006.

     Operating activities provided $29.4 million of cash during fiscal 2006 compared to $37.4 million during fiscal 2005. The decline in cash provided by operating activities in fiscal 2006 was attributable to increased gold inventory, a decline in customer deposits and increased working capital requirements, partially offset by improved earnings.

     Investing Activities.  Capital expenditures in fiscal 2007, fiscal 2006 and fiscal 2005 were $10.6 million, $12.5 million and $12.8 million, respectively. The majority of capital expenditures in fiscal 2007 were attributable to acquisition and implementation of information technology systems and fully integrating digital technology throughout our yearbook production process. The majority of capital expenditures in fiscal 2006 and fiscal 2005 were primarily attributable to purchases of new printing presses and fully integrating digital technology throughout our yearbook production process.

     Our projected capital expenditures for fiscal 2008 are expected to be approximately $16.0 million.  Projected capital expenditures for fiscal 2008 are higher than fiscal 2007 expenditures mainly due to anticipated purchases of printing presses for our yearbooks segment.

     In fiscal 2007 there was an additional outflow from investing activities of $5.9 million for the acquisition of Powers and an additional inflow from investing activities of $4.7 million in net proceeds from the sale of frontage property located at our Austin, Texas facility.

     Financing Activities.  In fiscal 2007, cash was used to pay down $19.4 million of the term loan, of which $1.0 million were mandatory quarterly payments. In addition, net revolver payments were made of $1.5 million.

     In fiscal 2006, cash was used to pay down $32.6 million of the term loan. This was partially offset by net revolver borrowings of $9.3 million. Also in fiscal 2006, $7.5 million in proceeds from the sale of preferred stock benefited Parent Holdings and Intermediate Holdings and resulted in a $7.0 million capital contribution from Intermediate Holdings to AAC. For Parent Holdings, proceeds of $150.0 million were received from the senior PIK Notes, which were used to pay deferred financing fees and to make a distribution to stockholders.

     In fiscal 2005, cash was used to pay down $15.5 million of the term loan and the remaining $6.1 million of the 11.625% senior unsecured notes issued by AAC in February 2002. For Intermediate Holdings, net proceeds of $89.3 million were received from the 10.25% senior discount notes, which were used to pay deferred financing fees and to make a distribution to stockholders.
     
    Capital Resources. In connection with the Merger, AAC entered into its existing $195.0 million senior secured credit facility and issued $150.0 million of the 8.25% senior subordinated notes. Certain provisions of these financing arrangements are described below.

     The senior secured credit facility, as amended, provides a $155.0 million term loan, maturing in 2011, and up to $40.0 million in available revolving loan borrowings, maturing in 2010. As of August 25, 2007, $87.1 million was outstanding on the term loan, $7.8 million was outstanding on the revolving loan and we had commitments for $2.3 million on letters of credit outstanding. The senior secured credit facility, as amended, imposes certain restrictions on AAC, including restrictions on its ability to incur indebtedness, pay dividends, make investments, grant liens, sell assets and engage in certain other activities. In addition, the senior secured credit facility, as amended, contains financial covenants and maintenance tests, including a minimum interest coverage test and a maximum total leverage test, and restrictive covenants, including restrictions on its ability to make capital expenditures. The senior secured credit facility, as amended, is secured by substantially all of the assets of AAC, is guaranteed by and secured by the assets of some of its existing and future domestic subsidiaries, if any and by a pledge of all of the capital stock of some of its existing and future domestic subsidiaries, if any. The senior secured credit facility, as amended, is also guaranteed by AAC Holding Corp.
32

     AAC is required to pay cash interest on the 8.25% notes semi-annually in arrears on April 1 and October 1 of each year. The 8.25% notes have no scheduled amortization and mature on April 1, 2012. The indenture governing the 8.25% notes contains certain restrictions on AAC, including restrictions on its ability to incur indebtedness, pay dividends, make investments, grant liens, sell its assets and engage in certain other activities. The 8.25% notes are guaranteed by certain of AAC’s existing and future domestic subsidiaries.

     In November 2004, Intermediate Holdings issued $89.3 million (net proceeds) of 10.25% senior discount notes due 2012. The notes accrete to $131.5 million aggregate principal amount at maturity. Interest accrues on the notes in the form of an increase in the accreted value of such notes prior to October 1, 2008. Thereafter, cash interest on the notes will accrue and be payable semiannually in arrears on April 1 and October 1 of each year, commencing April 1, 2009, at a rate of 10.25% per annum. The notes are Intermediate Holdings’ unsecured obligation and rank equally with all of its future senior obligations and senior to its future subordinated indebtedness. The 10.25% notes are effectively subordinated to Intermediate Holdings’ future secured indebtedness to the extent of the assets securing that indebtedness and are structurally subordinated to all indebtedness and other obligations of Intermediate Holdings’ subsidiaries, including AAC.

     In June 2006, Parent Holdings issued $150.0 million senior PIK notes. On February 24, 2007, the rate at which interest accrues on the senior PIK notes increased by 2.00% per annum, to a rate of 14.75%. The first interest payment on the notes occurred on October 1, 2006. Through April 1, 2011, interest on the notes will be payable in the form of additional notes semi-annually in arrears on April 1 and October 1. On October 1, 2011, and thereafter, interest will be payable in cash semi-annually in arrears on April 1 and October 1. The notes mature on October 1, 2012. At maturity, we are required to repay the notes at a repayment price of 103.188% of the aggregate principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest and special interest, if any, to the maturity date. The notes are Parent Holdings’ unsecured obligation and rank equally with all of its future senior obligations and senior to its future subordinated indebtedness. The notes are effectively subordinated to Parent Holdings’ future secured indebtedness to the extent of the assets securing that indebtedness and are structurally subordinated to all indebtedness and other obligations of Parent Holdings’ subsidiaries, including Intermediate Holdings and AAC.

      We are currently in compliance with financial covenants in all of the agreements governing our outstanding indebtedness.

     We have a significant amount of indebtedness. On August 25, 2007, Parent Holdings had total indebtedness of $546.3 million (of which $175.8 million was senior PIK notes, $117.9 million was 10.25% senior discount notes, $150.0 million was 8.25% senior subordinated notes, $94.9 million was indebtedness under the existing senior secured credit facility, $7.5 million was of our mandatory redeemable series A preferred stock and the balance of which consisted of capital lease obligations).

     We expect that cash generated from operating activities and availability under the senior secured credit facility will be our principal sources of liquidity. Based on our current level of operations and anticipated cost savings and operational improvements, we believe our cash flow from operations, available cash and available borrowings under the senior secured credit facility will be adequate to meet our liquidity needs for at least the next twelve months.

Off Balance-Sheet Obligations

     Gold Consignment Agreement. On March 25, 2004, we signed the First Amended and Restated Letter Agreement for Fee Consignment and Purchase of Gold with The Bank of Nova Scotia. Under this agreement, we have an ability to have on consignment gold with aggregate value less than or equal to the lowest of: (i) the dollar value of 27,000 troy ounces of gold, (ii) $14.2 million or (iii) a borrowing base, calculated based on a percentage of the gold held at our facilities and other approved locations, as specified by the agreement. Under the terms of this arrangement, we do not own the consigned gold nor do we have risk of loss related to price variance on such inventory until we pay The Bank of Nova Scotia for quantities purchased. Accordingly, we do not reflect the value of consigned gold in our inventory, nor do we reflect the corresponding liability for financial statement purposes. As of August 25, 2007 and August 26, 2006, we held no consigned gold.

     The agreement can be terminated by either us or The Bank of Nova Scotia with 60 days prior written notice to the other party.
 
     Letters of Credit.  As of August 25, 2007 and August 26, 2006, we had commitments for $2.3 million on letters of credit outstanding.

33

Contractual Obligations

     As of August 25, 2007, the due dates and amounts of our contractual obligations are as follows (in thousands):
 
 
Fiscal
 
Fiscal
 
Fiscal
 
Fiscal
 
Fiscal
             
 
2008 
 
2009 
 
2010 
 
2011 
 
2012 
 
Thereafter
 
Total
 
Senior PIK Notes (principal)
 $
           -
 
 $
           -
 
 $
           -
 
 $
              -
 
 $
             -
 
 $
 150,000
 
 $
    150,000
 
Mandatory Redeemable Preferred Stock
 
           -
   
           -
   
           -
   
              -
   
             -
   
     7,500
   
        7,500
 
Mandatory Redeemable Preferred Stock (dividends)
 
           -
   
           -
   
           -
   
              -
   
             -
   
   12,155
   
      12,155
 
10.25% Notes (principal)
 
           -
   
           -
   
           -
   
              -
   
             -
   
 131,534
   
    131,534
 
8.25% Senior Subordinated Debt (principal)
 
           -
   
           -
   
           -
   
              -
   
 150,000
   
             -
   
    150,000
 
Interest on fixed rate debt(a)
 
  12,547
   
 19,114
   
  25,854
   
    25,854
   
   69,129
   
 181,118
   
    333,616
 
Term loan (principal)
 
       900
   
      900
   
       900
   
    84,377
   
             -
   
             -
   
      87,077
 
Term loan (interest)(b)
 
    7,472
   
   7,287
   
    7,210
   
      7,143
   
             -
   
             -
   
      29,112
 
Revolver
 
           -
   
           -
   
    7,805
   
              -
   
             -
   
             -
   
        7,805
 
Operating leases(c)
 
    1,509
   
      796
   
       528
   
         404
   
        337
   
     1,610
   
        5,184
 
Capital leases(d)
 
       174
   
           -
   
           -
   
              -
   
             -
   
             -
   
           174
 
Management agreement(e)
 
    3,665
   
   3,665
   
    3,665
   
      3,665
   
     3,665
   
     5,802
   
      24,127
 
Postretirement plans(f)
 
       990
   
   1,036
   
    1,056
   
      1,058
   
     1,070
   
     5,475
   
      10,685
 
Total
 $
  27,257
 
 $
 32,798
 
 $
  47,018
 
 $
  122,501
 
 $
 224,201
 
 $
 495,194
 
 $
    948,969
 
 
     
(a)
 
Represents interest payments due on the senior PIK notes, 10.25% Notes and 8.25% Notes.
 
   
(b)
 
Assumes an interest rate on the term loan of 8.5%.
 
   
(c)
 
Some of our rental property leases contain options to renew the leased space for periods up to an additional ten years.
     
(d)
 
The total balance of gross capital lease assets is $5,022 as of August 25, 2007 and $5,022 as of August 26, 2006, with accumulated depreciation of $2,053 and $1,470, respectively.
     
(e)
 
AAC and Intermediate Holdings have entered into a management agreement with an affiliate of Fenway Partners Capital Fund II, L.P. pursuant to which they, among other things, agreed to pay such affiliate an annual fee equal to the greater of $3.0 million or 5% of the previous fiscal year’s EBITDA (as defined in the agreement). In arriving at the future obligations above, 5% of fiscal 2007 EBITDA was used. This agreement has a 10-year minimum term. See “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.”
     
(f)
 
CBI provides certain healthcare and life insurance benefits for former employees of L.G. Balfour Company, Inc. Certain hourly employees of Taylor are covered by a defined benefit pension plan established by Taylor.

Seasonality

     The seasonal nature of our various businesses tends to be tempered by our broad product mix. Class ring sales are highest during October through December and early spring, with many orders made for delivery to students before the winter holiday season. Graduation product sales are predominantly made during February through April prior to the April through June graduation season. Yearbook sales are highest during the months of April through June, as yearbooks are typically shipped prior to each school’s summer break. Our recognition and affinity product line sales are also seasonal. The majority of our achievement publications are shipped in August of each year. The remaining recognition and affinity product line sales are highest during the winter holiday season and in the period leading up to Mother’s Day.

     As a result of the foregoing, we have historically experienced operating losses during our first and fourth fiscal quarters, which includes the beginning of the school year and the summer months when school is not in session, thus reducing related shipment of products. In addition, our working capital requirements tend to exceed our operating cash flows from May through September.

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Recent Accounting Pronouncements

     In May 2005, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued SFAS No. 154, “Accounting Changes and Error Corrections” (“SFAS 154”), which replaces Accounting Principles Board (“APB”) Opinion No. 20, “Accounting Changes” and SFAS No. 3, “Reporting Accounting Changes in Interim Financial Statements.” SFAS 154 requires retrospective application of a voluntary change in accounting principle, unless it is impracticable to do so. This statement carries forward without change the guidance in APB Opinion No. 20 for reporting the correction of an error in previously issued financial statements and a change in accounting estimate. SFAS 154 became effective for changes in accounting principle made in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2005. We adopted the provisions of SFAS 154 in our fiscal year 2007 and its adoption had no impact on our financial position or results of operations.

     In July 2006, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” (“FIN 48”), which prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. In addition, FIN 48 provides guidance on derecognition, classification, accounting in interim periods and disclosure requirements for uncertain tax positions. The accounting provisions of FIN 48 will be effective for us beginning with our fiscal year 2008. We are currently evaluating the impact this standard will have on our financial position and results of operations.

     In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“SFAS 157”), which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS 157 applies under other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements and does not require any new fair value measurements. The provisions of SFAS 157 are effective for us beginning with our fiscal year 2009. We are currently evaluating the impact this standard will have on our financial position and results of operations.

     In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 158, “Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans — An Amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106 and 132 (R)” (“SFAS 158”). SFAS 158 requires an employer to recognize the funded status of defined benefit postretirement plan as an asset or liability in the balance sheet and to recognize changes in that funded status in the year in which changes occur through comprehensive income. Additionally, SFAS 158 requires an employer to measure the funded status of each of its plans as of the date of its year-end statement of financial position.  We adopted the recognition and disclosure provisions of SFAS 158 in our fiscal year 2007 and as a result recorded an after-tax adjustment to other comprehensive income of $3.2 million to reflect previously unrecognized net actuarial gains. The measurement date provisions of SFAS 158 will be effective for us beginning with our fiscal year 2009. We are currently evaluating the impact that the measurement date provisions of this standard will have on our financial position and results of operations.

     In September 2006, the SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 108, “Considering the Effects of Prior Year Misstatements when Quantifying Misstatements in Current Year Financial Statements” (“SAB 108”). SAB 108 requires companies to evaluate the materiality of identified unadjusted errors on each financial statements and related financial statement disclosure using both the rollover approach and the iron curtain approach. The requirements of SAB 108 are effective for annual financial statements covering the first fiscal year ending after November 15, 2006. We adopted SAB 108 during the fourth quarter of our fiscal year 2007. The adoption of SAB 108 did not have a material impact on our consolidated results of operations and financial condition.

 In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (“SFAS 159”).  SFAS 159 permits entities to measure many financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value.  Unrealized gains and losses on items for which the fair value option has been elected are reported in earnings.  SFAS 159 is effective for us beginning with our fiscal year 2009.  We are currently assessing the impact of SFAS 159 on our financial position and results of operations.


     Interest Rate Risk. We have exposure to market risk relating to changes in interest rates on our variable rate debt. Our policy is to manage interest rate exposure through the use of a combination of fixed and floating rate debt instruments. Our senior secured credit facility (revolver and term loan) and existing gold consignment agreement are variable rate arrangements. Each quarter point change in interest rates on our senior secured credit facility, which bears interest at variable rates, would result in a $0.3 million change in annual interest expense, assuming the entire revolving loan was drawn.

     Semi-Precious Stones. We purchase the majority of our semi-precious and synthetic stones from a single supplier in Germany. We believe that all of our major competitors purchase their semi-precious stones from this same supplier. Each ten percent change in the Euro exchange rate would result in a $0.5 million change in cost of goods sold, assuming stone purchase levels approximate the levels of fiscal 2007.

     Gold. We purchase a majority of our gold from The Bank of Nova Scotia through our existing gold consignment agreement described above. We pay for consigned gold as our related products are shipped to customers. Each ten percent change in the price of gold would result in a $2.9 million change in cost of goods sold, assuming gold purchase levels approximate the levels in fiscal 2007.
35


REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of
American Achievement Group Holding Corp.

     We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of American Achievement Group Holding Corp. and subsidiaries (“Parent Holdings”) as of August 25, 2007 and August 26, 2006, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the years ended August 25, 2007, August 26, 2006 and August 27, 2005. These financial statements are the responsibility of Parent Holdings’ management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

     We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. Parent Holdings is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of Parent Holdings’ internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
     As discussed in Note 12 to the consolidated financial statements, in 2007 Parent Holdings changed its method of accounting for pension and other postretirement plans.

     In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Parent Holdings as of August 25, 2007 and August 26, 2006, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the years ended August 25, 2007, August 26, 2006 and August 27, 2005, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Austin, Texas
December 7, 2007
36

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of
AAC Group Holding Corp.

     We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of AAC Group Holding Corp. and subsidiaries (“Intermediate Holdings”) (wholly-owned subsidiary of American Achievement Group Holding Corp.) as of August 25, 2007 and August 26, 2006, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the years ended August 25, 2007, August 26, 2006, and August 27, 2005. These financial statements are the responsibility of Intermediate Holdings’ management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

     We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. Intermediate Holdings is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of Intermediate Holdings’ internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
     As discussed in Note 12 to the consolidated financial statements, in 2007 Intermediate Holdings changed its method of accounting for pension and other postretirement plans.
 
     In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Intermediate Holdings as of August 25, 2007 and August 26, 2006 and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the years ended August 25, 2007, August 26, 2006, and August 27, 2005, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Austin, Texas
December 7, 2007
37

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of
American Achievement Corporation

     We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of American Achievement Corporation and subsidiaries (“AAC”) (wholly-owned indirect subsidiary of AAC Group Holding Corp.) as of August 25, 2007 and August 26, 2006, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the years ended August 25, 2007, August 26, 2006 and August 27, 2005. These financial statements are the responsibility of AAC’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

     We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. AAC is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of AAC’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
     As discussed in Note 12 to the consolidated financial statements, in 2007 AAC changed its method of accounting for pension and other postretirement plans.
 
     In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of AAC as of August 25, 2007 and August 26, 2006 and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the years ended August 25, 2007, August 26, 2006 and August 27, 2007 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Austin, Texas
December 7, 2007
38

AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
Consolidated Balance Sheet
 
   
Parent Holdings   
 
   
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
   
(Dollars in thousands)   
 
ASSETS      
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
                  1,454
 
$
                  3,404
 
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $2,110 and $2,330, respectively
                43,039
   
                40,226
 
Inventories, net
   
                31,158
   
                31,438
 
Deferred tax asset
   
                  3,731
   
                  5,582
 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets, net
   
                18,317
   
                13,944
 
Total current assets
   
                97,699
   
                94,594
 
               
Property, plant and equipment, net
   
                70,653
   
                76,054
 
Goodwill
   
              173,277
   
              184,565
 
Other intangible assets, net
   
              123,883
   
              148,595
 
Other assets
   
                10,554
   
                  7,468
 
Total assets
 
$
              476,066
 
$
              511,276
 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT      
 
Book overdraft
 
$
                  5,082
 
$
                  2,147
 
Accounts payable
   
                10,590
   
                13,585
 
Customer deposits
   
                11,771
   
                11,392
 
Accrued expenses
   
                20,361
   
                23,382
 
Deferred revenue
   
                  4,460
   
                  2,617
 
Accrued interest
   
                  5,550
   
                  5,997
 
Current portion of long-term debt
   
                     900
   
                  1,090
 
Total current liabilities
   
                58,714
   
                60,210
 
               
Long-term debt, net of current portion
   
              537,680
   
              525,734
 
Mandatory redeemable preferred stock, $.01 par value, 15,000 shares authorized, 7,500 shares issued and outstanding
                  7,500
   
                  7,500
 
Deferred tax liabilities
   
                  9,736
   
                25,760
 
Other long-term liabilities
   
                  6,619
   
                  6,858
 
Total liabilities
   
              620,249
   
              626,062
 
               
Commitments and contingencies
             
               
Stockholders’ deficit:
             
Common stock, $.01 par value, 1,250,000 shares authorized, 505,460 shares issued and outstanding
                         5
   
                         5
 
Additional paid-in capital
   
             (124,045
 
             (124,045
Accumulated earnings (deficit)
   
               (23,297
 
                  9,254
 
Accumulated other comprehensive income
   
                  3,154
   
                          -
 
Total stockholders’ deficit
   
             (144,183
 
             (114,786
               
Total liabilities and stockholders’ deficit
 
$
              476,066
 
$
              511,276
 
               
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
 
39

AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
Consolidated Balance Sheets
 
 
Intermediate Holdings 
 
 
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
 
(Dollars in thousands)
 
ASSETS     
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
             1,168
 
$
             2,904
 
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $2,110 and $2,330, respectively
           43,039
   
           40,226
 
Inventories, net
 
           31,158
   
           31,438
 
Deferred tax asset
 
             3,731
   
             5,582
 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets, net
 
           18,317
   
           13,944
 
Total current assets
 
           97,413
   
           94,094
 
             
Property, plant and equipment, net
 
           70,653
   
           76,054
 
Goodwill
 
         173,277
   
         184,565
 
Other intangible assets, net
 
         116,232
   
         139,592
 
Other assets
 
           10,554
   
             7,468
 
Total assets
$
         468,129
 
$
         501,773
 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY     
 
Book overdraft
$
             5,082
 
$
             2,147
 
Accounts payable
 
           10,590
   
           13,585
 
Customer deposits
 
           11,771
   
           11,392
 
Accrued expenses
 
           20,299
   
           23,292
 
Deferred revenue
 
             4,460
   
             2,617
 
Accrued interest
 
             5,550
   
             5,997
 
Current portion of long-term debt
 
               900
   
             1,090
 
Total current liabilities
 
           58,652
   
           60,120
 
             
Long-term debt, net of current portion
 
         361,836
   
         371,537
 
Deferred tax liabilities
 
           19,731
   
           27,523
 
Other long-term liabilities
 
             3,034
   
             5,879
 
Total liabilities
 
         443,253
   
         465,059
 
             
Commitments and contingencies
           
             
Stockholders’ equity:
           
Common stock, $.01 par value, 1,000 shares authorized, 100 shares issued and outstanding
                   -
   
                   -
 
Additional paid-in capital
 
           24,144
   
           24,144
 
Accumulated earnings (deficit)
 
           (2,422
 
           12,570
 
Accumulated other comprehensive income
 
             3,154
   
                   -
 
Total stockholders’ equity
 
           24,876
   
           36,714
 
             
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
$
         468,129
 
$
         501,773
 
             
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
 
40

AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Consolidated Balance Sheets
 
 
AAC   
 
 
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
 
(Dollars in thousands)   
 
ASSETS     
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
                     620
 
$
                  2,381
 
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $2,110 and $2,330, respectively
                43,039
   
                40,226
 
Inventories, net
 
                31,158
   
                31,438
 
Deferred tax asset
 
                  3,731
   
                  5,582
 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets, net
 
                18,317
   
                13,944
 
Total current assets
 
                96,865
   
                93,571
 
             
Property, plant and equipment, net
 
                70,653
   
                76,054
 
Goodwill
 
              173,277
   
              184,565
 
Other intangible assets, net
 
              113,970
   
              136,884
 
Other assets
 
                10,554
   
                  7,468
 
Total assets
$
            465,319
 
$
            498,542
 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY     
 
Book overdraft
$
                  5,082
 
$
                  2,147
 
Accounts payable
 
                10,590
   
                13,585
 
Customer deposits
 
                11,771
   
                11,392
 
Accrued expenses
 
                20,284
   
                23,290
 
Deferred revenue
 
                  4,460
   
                  2,617
 
Accrued interest
 
                  5,550
   
                  5,997
 
Current portion of long-term debt
 
                     900
   
                  1,090
 
Total current liabilities
 
                58,637
   
                60,118
 
             
Long-term debt, net of current portion
 
              243,982
   
              264,720
 
Deferred tax liabilities
 
                30,639
   
                34,307
 
Other long-term liabilities
 
                  3,006
   
                  5,851
 
Total liabilities
 
              336,264
   
              364,996
 
             
Commitments and contingencies
           
             
Stockholders’ equity:
           
Common stock, $.01 par value, 1,000 shares authorized, 100 shares issued and outstanding
                         -
   
                         -
 
Additional paid-in capital
 
              109,046
   
              109,046
 
Accumulated earnings
 
                16,855
   
                24,500
 
Accumulated other comprehensive income
 
                  3,154
   
                         -
 
Total stockholders’ equity
 
              129,055
   
              133,546
 
             
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
$
            465,319
 
$
            498,542
 
             
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

41




AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
Consolidated Statement of Operations
 
   
Parent Holdings      
 
   
For the year ended     
 
   
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
August 27, 2005 
 
   
(Dollars in thousands)      
 
Net sales
 
$
            315,736
 
$
            320,910
 
$
        313,788
 
Cost of sales
   
            140,603
   
            134,258
   
        134,375
 
Gross profit
   
            175,133
   
            186,652
   
        179,413
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses
   
            135,831
   
            144,129
   
        144,592
 
Other charges
   
              28,013
   
 --
   
 --
 
Operating income
   
              11,289
   
              42,523
   
          34,821
 
Interest expense, net
   
              59,267
   
              39,331
   
          31,271
 
Income (loss) before income taxes
   
             (47,978
 
                3,192
   
            3,550
 
Provision (benefit) for income taxes
   
             (15,427
 
                2,216
   
            1,738
 
Net income (loss)
 
$
           (32,551
) 
$
                  976
 
$
           1,812
 

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

42

AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
Consolidated Statements of Operations
 
   
Intermediate Holdings     
 
   
For the year ended     
 
   
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
August 27, 2005 
 
   
(Dollars in thousands)    
 
Net sales
 
$
            315,736
 
$
            320,910
 
$
             313,788
 
Cost of sales
   
            140,603
   
            134,258
   
             134,375
 
Gross profit
   
            175,133
   
            186,652
   
             179,413
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses
   
            135,831
   
            144,129
   
             144,592
 
Other charges
   
              28,013
   
 --
   
 --
 
Operating income
   
              11,289
   
              42,523
   
               34,821
 
Interest expense, net
   
              33,514
   
              34,246
   
               31,271
 
Income (loss) before income taxes
   
            (22,225
 
                8,277
   
                 3,550
 
Provision (benefit) for income taxes
   
              (7,233
 
                3,985
   
                 1,738
 
Net income (loss)
 
$
          (14,992
) 
$
              4,292
 
$
                1,812
 

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

43

AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Consolidated Statements of Operations
 
 
AAC      
 
 
For the year ended      
 
   
August 25, 2007
 
August 26, 2006 
 
August 27, 2005 
 
 
(Dollars in Thousands)      
 
Net sales
$
                   315,736
 
 $
              320,910
 
 $
              313,788
 
Cost of sales
 
                   140,603
   
              134,258
   
              134,375
 
Gross profit
 
                   175,133
   
              186,652
   
              179,413
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses
 
                   135,831
   
              144,129
   
              144,592
 
Other charges
 
                     28,013
   
 --
   
 --
 
Operating income
 
                     11,289
   
                42,523
   
                34,821
 
Interest expense, net
 
                     22,056
   
                23,289
   
                23,497
 
Income (loss) before income taxes
 
                   (10,767
 
                19,234
   
                11,324
 
Provision (benefit) for income taxes
 
                     (3,122
 
                  7,907
   
                  4,617
 
Net income (loss)
$
                    (7,645
) 
 $
              11,327
 
 $
                6,707
 

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

44

AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
Consolidated Statement of Stockholders’ Equity
 
                   
Accumulated
             
             
Additional
 
other
             
 
Common Stock   
 
Paid-in
 
comprehensive
 
Accumulated
       
Parent Holdings
Shares
 
Amount
 
Capital
 
income
 
earnings (deficit)
   
Total
 
 
(Dollars in thousands)             
 
 Balance, August 28, 2004           100     $    $ 102,046    $    $ 6,466     $ 108,512  
 Recapitalization of AAC common stock   (100       (102,046           (102,046
 Issuance of Intermediate Holdings common stock       1,015,426     10     102,046             102,046  
 Distribution to stockholders through repurchase of common stock   (509,966   (5   (85,545           (85,550
 Comprehensive income -                                    
      Net income                   1,812      1,812  
      Adjustment to minimum pension liability (net of tax impact)               (956       (956
 Total comprehensive income                                 856  
Balance, August 27, 2005
 
           505,460
 
 $
5
 
 $
             16,491
 
 $
                (956
 $
                  8,278
 
 $
               23,818
 
 Recapitalization of Intermediate Holdings common stock   (505,460  
(5
   (16,491           (16,496
Issuance of Parent Holdings common stock
 
 505,460
   
            5
   
       16,491
   
       -
   
          -
   
     16,496
 
Dividend distribution to stockholders
 
             -
   
            -
   
   (140,536
             
 (140,536
Comprehensive income-
                                   
     Net income
 
             -
   
            -
   
                -
   
                 -
   
             976
   
          976
 
     Adjustment to minimum pension liability (net of tax impact)
 
             -
   
            -
   
                -
   
            956
   
                  -
   
          956
 
Total comprehensive income
                               
       1,932
 
Balance, August 26, 2006
 
 505,460
 
 $
            5
 
 $
   (124,045
 $
                 -
 
 $
          9,254
 
 $
 (114,786
Comprehensive loss -
                                   
     Net loss
 
             -
   
            -
   
                -
   
                 -
   
      (32,551
 
   (32,551
Total comprehensive loss
                               
   (32,551
Adjustment for initial adoption of SFAS 158, net of tax
 
             -
   
            -
   
                -
   
         3,154
   
                  -
   
       3,154
 
Balance, August 25, 2007
 
 505,460
 
 $
            5
 
 $
   (124,045
 $
         3,154
 
 $
      (23,297
 $
 (144,183

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
 
 
45

AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity
 
                   
Accumulated
             
             
Additional
 
other
 
Accumulated
       
 
Common Stock   
 
Paid-in
 
comprehensive
 
earnings
       
Intermediate Holdings
Shares
 
Amount
 
Capital
 
income (loss)
 
(deficit)
 
Total
 
 
(Dollars in thousands)              
 
Balance, August 28, 2004
 
                 100
 
 $
            -
 
 $
              102,046
 
 $
                -
 
 $
            6,466
 
 $
                108,512
 
 Recapitalization of AAC common stock  
 (100
 
 -
   
 (102,046
 
 -
   
 -
   
 (102,046
Issuance of Intermediate Holdings common stock
 
    1,015,426
   
         10
 
 
  102,036
   
                -
   
     6,466
   
    108,512
 
Distribution to stockholders through repurchase of common stock
 
     (509,966
 
          (5
 
   (85,545
 
                -
   
             -
   
    (85,550
Comprehensive income -
                                   
     Net income
 
                  -
   
            -
   
              -
   
                -
   
     1,812
   
        1,812
 
     Adjustment to minimum pension liability (net of tax impact)
 
                  -
   
            -
   
              -
   
         (956
 
             -
   
         (956
Total comprehensive income
                               
           856
 
Balance, August 27, 2005
 
       505,460
 
 $
           5
 
 $
    16,491
 
 $
         (956
 $
     8,278
 
 $
      23,818
 
Comprehensive income -
                                   
     Net income
 
                  -
   
            -
   
              -
   
                -
   
     4,292
   
        4,292
 
     Adjustment to minimum pension liability (net of tax impact)
 
                  -
   
            -
   
              -
   
           956
   
             -
   
           956
 
Total comprehensive income
                               
        5,248
 
Capital contribution from Parent Holdings
 
                  -
   
            -
   
      7,648
   
                -
   
             -
   
        7,648
 
Exchange of Intermediate Holdings’ stock for stock in Parent Holdings
 
     (505,360
 
          (5
 
             5
   
                -
   
             -
   
                -
 
Balance, August 26, 2006
 
              100
 
 $
            -
 
 $
    24,144
 
 $
                -
 
 $
   12,570
 
 $
      36,714
 
Comprehensive loss -
                                   
     Net loss
 
                  -
   
            -
   
              -
   
                -
   
 (14,992
 
    (14,992
Total comprehensive loss
                               
    (14,992
Adjustment for initial adoption of SFAS 158, net of tax
 
                  -
   
            -
   
              -
   
        3,154
   
             -
   
        3,154
 
Balance, August 25, 2007
 
              100
 
 $
            -
 
 $
    24,144
 
 $
        3,154
 
 $
   (2,422
 $
      24,876
 

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

46


AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity
 
                    
Accumulated
             
              
Additional
 
other
             
 
 Common Stock  
 
Paid-in
 
comprehensive
 
Accumulated
       
AAC
 
  Shares 
Amount
 
Capital
 
income (loss)
 
earnings
 
Total
 
    
       (Dollars in thousands)           
 
Balance, August 28, 2004
  
      100
 
 $
           -
 
 $
  102,046
 
 $
                   -
 
 $
   6,466
 
 $
   108,512
 
Comprehensive income -
                                    
     Net income
  
           -
   
           -
   
             -
   
                   -
   
   6,707
   
       6,707
 
     Adjustment to minimum pension liability (net of tax impact)
 
           -
   
           -
   
             -
   
            (956
 
           -
   
        (956
Total comprehensive income
                                
       5,751
 
Balance, August 27, 2005
  
      100
 
 $
           -
 
 $
  102,046
 
 $
            (956
 $
 13,173
 
 $
   114,263
 
Comprehensive income -
                                    
     Net income
  
           -
   
           -
   
             -
   
                   -
   
 11,327
   
     11,327
 
     Adjustment to minimum pension liability (net of tax impact)
 
           -
   
           -
   
             -
   
              956
   
           -
   
          956
 
Total comprehensive income
                                
     12,283
 
Capital contribution from Intermediate Holdings
  
           -
   
           -
   
      7,000
   
                   -
   
           -
   
       7,000
 
Balance, August 26, 2006
  
      100
 
 $
           -
 
 $
  109,046
 
 $
                   -
 
 $
 24,500
 
 $
   133,546
 
Comprehensive loss -
                                    
     Net loss
  
           -
   
           -
   
             -
   
                   -
   
  (7,645
 
     (7,645
Total comprehensive loss
                                
     (7,645
Adjustment for initial adoption of  SFAS 158, net of tax
 
           -
   
           -
   
             -
   
           3,154
   
           -
   
       3,154
 
Balance, August 25, 2007
  
      100
 
 $
           -
 
 $
  109,046
 
 $
           3,154
 
 $
 16,855
 
 $
   129,055
 

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


47

AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
 
 
Parent Holdings      
 
 
For the year ended      
 
   
August 25, 2007
 
August 26, 2006 
 
August 27, 2005 
 
 
(Dollars in thousands)      
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
                 
Net income (loss)
 $
               (32,551
 $
                 976
 
 $
             1,812
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
                 
Other charges
 
                28,013
             
Depreciation and amortization
 
                25,000
   
            25,095
   
           25,281
 
Deferred income taxes
 
               (15,506
 
              2,061
   
             1,521
 
Amortization of debt discount and deferred financing fees
 
                  3,491
   
              2,269
   
             1,882
 
Accretion of interest on 10.25% senior discount notes
 
                11,037
   
            10,161
   
             7,387
 
Accretion of Senior PIK Notes
 
                21,647
   
              4,197
       
Loss (gain) on sales of property, plant and equipment
 
                 (1,989
 
                   79
   
                     -
 
Allowance for doubtful accounts
 
                    (233
 
                (464
 
              (107
Loss on operating lease agreement
 
                     961
             
Changes in assets and liabilities:
                 
Accounts receivable
 
                 (2,632
 
                   41
   
             3,586
 
Inventories, net
 
                    (951
 
             (9,217
 
                802
 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets, net
 
                 (4,793
 
              7,325
   
             3,445
 
Other assets
 
                       90
   
             (2,143
 
           (2,664
Deferred revenue
 
                  1,843
   
              1,613
   
           (4,499
Accounts payable, accrued expenses, customer deposits and other long-term liabilities
 
                 (5,348
 
           (12,574
 
           (1,005
Net cash provided by operating activities
 
                28,079
   
            29,419
   
           37,441
 
                   
Cash flows from investing activities:
                 
Purchases of property, plant and equipment
 
               (10,594
 
           (12,511
 
         (12,795
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired
 
                 (5,914
 
                (539
 
                     -
 
Proceeds from sales of property, plant and equipment
 
                  4,651
   
                 104
   
                     -
 
Net cash used in investing activities
 
               (11,857
 
           (12,946
 
         (12,795
                   
Cash flows from financing activities:
                 
Payments on term loan
 
               (19,433
 
           (32,610
 
         (15,493
Proceeds from credit facility revolver
 
                28,000
   
            35,050
   
           33,450
 
Payments on credit facility revolver
 
               (29,495
 
           (25,750
 
         (33,450
Proceeds from preferred stock issuance
 
                          -
   
              7,500
   
                     -
 
Proceeds from Senior PIK Notes
 
                          -
   
          150,000
   
           (6,075
Proceeds from 10.25% senior discount notes
 
                          -
   
                      -
   
           89,269
 
Distribution to stockholders
 
                          -
   
         (140,536
 
         (85,550
Deferred financing fees
 
                    (179
 
             (9,464
 
           (3,508
Change in book overdraft
 
                  2,935
   
             (1,583
 
           (2,003
Net cash used in financing activities
 
               (18,172
 
           (17,393
 
         (23,360
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
 
                 (1,950
) 
 
                (920
)   
             1,286
 
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
 
                  3,404
   
              4,324
   
             3,038
 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
 $
                  1,454
 
 $
              3,404
 
 $
             4,324
 
                   
Supplemental disclosure
                 
Cash paid during the period for:
                 
Interest
 $
                20,973
 
 $
            23,449
 
 $
           21,966
 
Income taxes
 $
                     921
 
 $
                 703
 
 $
                224
 
Supplemental non-cash investing and financing activities disclosure
                 
Transfer of preferred stock and accumulated dividends from Intermediate Holdings to Parent Holdings
 $
                          -
   
              7,648
 
 $
                     -
 

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

48

AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
 
 
Intermediate Holdings      
 
 
For the year ended      
 
 
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
August 27, 2005 
 
 
(Dollars in thousands)      
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
                 
Net income (loss)
 $
             (14,992
 $
                 4,292
 
 $
                1,812
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
                 
Other charges
 
               28,013
             
Depreciation and amortization
 
               25,000
   
               25,095
   
              25,281
 
Deferred income taxes
 
               (7,274
 
                 3,824
   
                1,521
 
Amortization of debt discount and deferred financing fees
 
                 1,976
   
                 1,959
   
                1,882
 
Accretion of interest on 10.25% senior discount notes
 
               11,037
   
               10,161
   
                7,387
 
Loss (gain) on sales of property, plant and equipment
 
               (1,989
 
                      79
   
                        -
 
Allowance for doubtful accounts
 
                  (233
 
                  (464
 
                  (107
Loss on operating lease agreement
 
                    961
             
Changes in assets and liabilities:
                 
Accounts receivable
 
               (2,632
 
                      41
   
                3,586
 
Inventories, net
 
                  (951
 
               (9,217
 
                   802
 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets, net
 
               (4,793
 
                 7,325
   
                3,445
 
Other assets
 
                      90
   
               (2,143
 
               (2,664
Deferred revenue
 
                 1,843
   
                 1,613
   
               (4,499
Accounts payable, accrued expenses, customer deposits and other long-term liabilities
 
               (7,926
 
             (13,242
 
               (1,005
Net cash provided by operating activities
 
               28,130
   
               29,323
   
              37,441
 
                   
Cash flows from investing activities:
                 
Purchases of property, plant and equipment
 
             (10,594
 
             (12,511
 
             (12,795
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired
 
               (5,914
 
                  (539
 
                        -
 
Proceeds from sales of property, plant and equipment
 
                 4,651
   
                    104
   
                        -
 
Net cash used in investing activities
 
             (11,857
 
             (12,946
 
             (12,795
                   
Cash flows from financing activities:
                 
Payments on term loan
 
             (19,433
 
             (32,610
 
             (15,493
Proceeds from credit facility revolver
 
               28,000
   
               35,050
   
              33,450
 
Payments on credit facility revolver
 
             (29,495
 
             (25,750
 
             (33,450
Proceeds from preferred stock issuance
 
                         -
   
                 7,500
   
                        -
 
Redemption of 11.625% senior unsecured notes
 
                         -
   
                         -
   
               (6,075
Proceeds from 10.25% senior discount notes
 
                         -
   
                         -
   
              89,269
 
Distribution to stockholders
 
                         -
   
                         -
   
             (85,550
Deferred financing fees
 
                    (16
 
                  (404
 
               (3,508
Change in book overdraft
 
                 2,935
   
               (1,583
 
               (2,003
Net cash used in financing activities
 
             (18,009
 
             (17,797
 
             (23,360
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
 
               (1,736
)   
               (1,420
)   
                1,286
 
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
 
                 2,904
   
                 4,324
   
                3,038
 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
 $
                 1,168
 
 $
                 2,904
 
 $
                4,324
 
                   
Supplemental disclosure
                 
Cash paid during the period for:
                 
Interest
 $
               20,973
 
 $
               23,449
 
 $
              21,966
 
Income taxes
 $
                    921
 
 $
                    703
 
 $
                   224
 
Supplemental non-cash investing and financing activities disclosure
                 
Transfer of preferred stock and accumulated dividends from Intermediate Holdings to Parent Holdings
 $
                         -
 
 $
                 7,648
 
 $
                        -
 

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

 
49

AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

 
AAC      
 
 
    For the year ended   
 
   
August 25, 2007
 
August 26, 2006 
 
August 27, 2005 
 
 
(Dollars in thousands)      
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
                 
Net income (loss)
 $
                   (7,645
 $
            11,327
 
 $
               6,707
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
           
Other charges
 
                  28,013
             
Depreciation and amortization
 
                  25,000
   
            25,095
   
             25,281
 
Deferred income taxes
 
                   (3,150
 
              7,737
   
               4,392
 
Amortization of debt discount and deferred financing fees
 
                    1,530
   
              1,498
   
               1,527
 
Loss (gain) on sales of property, plant and equipment
 
                   (1,989
 
                   79
   
                       -
 
Allowance for doubtful accounts
 
                      (233
 
               (464
 
                (107
Loss on operating lease agreement
 
                       961
             
Changes in assets and liabilities:
                 
Accounts receivable
 
                   (2,632
 
                   41
   
               3,586
 
Inventories, net
 
                      (951
 
            (9,217
 
                  802
 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets, net
 
                   (4,793
 
              7,325
   
               3,445
 
Other assets
 
                         90
   
            (2,143
 
             (2,664
Deferred revenue
 
                    1,843
   
              1,613
   
             (4,499
Accounts payable, accrued expenses, customer deposits and other long-term liabilities
 
                   (7,939
 
          (13,629
 
             (1,049
Net cash provided by operating activities
 
                  28,105
   
            29,262
   
             37,421
 
                   
Cash flows from investing activities:
                 
Purchases of property, plant and equipment
 
                 (10,594
 
          (12,511
 
           (12,795
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired
 
                   (5,914
 
               (539
 
                       -
 
Proceeds from sales of fixed assets
 
                    4,651
   
                 104
   
                       -
 
Net cash used in investing activities
 
                 (11,857
 
          (12,946
 
           (12,795
                   
Cash flows from financing activities:
                 
Payments on term loan
 
                 (19,433
 
          (32,610
 
           (15,493
Proceeds from credit facility revolver
 
                  28,000
   
            35,050
   
             33,450
 
Payments on credit facility revolver
 
                 (29,495
 
          (25,750
 
           (33,450
Redemption of 11.625% senior unsecured notes
 
                            -
   
                      -
   
             (6,075
Capital contribution
 
                            -
   
              7,000
   
                       -
 
Deferred financing fees
 
                        (16
 
               (135
 
                       -
 
Change in book overdraft
 
                    2,935
   
            (1,583
 
             (2,003
Net cash used in financing activities
 
                 (18,009
 
          (18,028
 
           (23,571
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
 
                   (1,761
)   
            (1,712
)   
               1,055
 
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
 
                    2,381
   
              4,093
   
               3,038
 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
 $
                       620
 
 $
              2,381
 
 $
               4,093
 
                   
Supplemental disclosure
                 
Cash paid during the period for:
                 
Interest
 $
                  20,973
 
 $
            23,449
 
 $
             21,966
 
Income taxes
 $
                       921
 
 $
                 703
 
 $
                  224
 

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

50

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)

1. Summary of Organization and Significant Accounting Policies

Registrants
 
     The consolidated financial statements of American Achievement Group Holding Corp. (“Parent Holdings”) include the accounts of its wholly-owned subsidiary, AAC Group Holding Corp. (“Intermediate Holdings”) and its indirect wholly-owned subsidiary, American Achievement Corporation (“AAC”), all of which are separate public reporting companies. The consolidated financial statements of Intermediate Holdings include the accounts of its indirect wholly-owned subsidiary, AAC. Parent Holdings, Intermediate Holdings, and AAC are treated as entities under common control. Accordingly, the financial results are being presented for Parent Holdings and Intermediate Holdings for all periods for which the financial results of AAC are presented. The financial results of Parent Holdings prior to its formation represent entirely those of its wholly-owned subsidiary, Intermediate Holdings and its indirect wholly-owned subsidiary, AAC. The financial results of Intermediate Holdings prior to its formation represent entirely those of its wholly-owned indirect subsidiary, AAC. Parent Holdings, Intermediate Holdings and AAC together with their consolidated subsidiaries are referred to as the “Company.” Unless separately stated, the notes herein relate to Parent Holdings, Intermediate Holdings and AAC.
 
Description of Business

     The Company is a manufacturer and supplier of class rings, yearbooks and other graduation-related scholastic products for the high school and college markets and of recognition products, such as letter jackets, and affinity jewelry designed to commemorate significant events, achievements and affiliations. The Company also operates a division which sells achievement publications in the specialty directory publishing industry nationwide. The Company markets its products and services primarily in the United States and operates in five reporting segments; class rings, yearbooks, graduation products, achievement publications and other. The Company’s corporate office is located in Austin, Texas and its manufacturing facilities are located in Austin, Dallas, El Paso and Waco, Texas, Louisville, Kentucky, Manhattan, Kansas, and Juarez, Mexico.

As described in Note 17, on October 26, 2007 the Company decided to shut down its achievement publications segment.

Consolidation

     The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its majority owned subsidiaries.  All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

    Parent Holdings conducts all of its business through Intermediate Holdings and AAC and its subsidiaries. The consolidated financial statements of Parent Holdings include the accounts of its direct wholly-owned subsidiary, Intermediate Holdings and its indirect wholly-owned subsidiary, AAC. Parent Holdings’ consolidated financial statements are substantially identical to Intermediate Holdings’ consolidated financial statements, with the exception of the series A preferred stock, senior PIK notes, additional interest expense related to its series A preferred stock and senior PIK notes, amortization of deferred financing costs and the related income taxes.
     
     Intermediate Holdings conducts all of its business indirectly through AAC and its subsidiaries. The consolidated financial statements of Intermediate Holdings include the accounts of its indirect wholly-owned subsidiary, AAC. Intermediate Holdings’ consolidated financial statements are substantially identical to AAC’s consolidated financial statements, with the exception of the 10.25% senior discount notes, additional interest expense related to the 10.25% senior discount notes, amortization of deferred financing costs and the related income taxes. 

Fiscal Year-End

     The Company uses a 52/53-week fiscal year ending on the last Saturday of August. All fiscal years presented in the consolidated financial statements were 52-week fiscal years.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

     Cash and cash equivalents include highly liquid investments with maturities of three months or less at the date of purchase.

51

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts and Product Returns

     The Company makes estimates of potentially uncollectible customer accounts receivable. The Company believes that its credit risk for these receivables is limited because of its large number of customers and the relatively small account balances for most of its customers. The Company evaluates the adequacy of the allowance on a periodic basis. The evaluation includes historical loss experience, length of time receivables are past due, adverse situations that may affect a customer’s ability to repay and prevailing economic conditions. The Company makes adjustments to the allowance balance if the evaluation of allowance requirements differs from the actual aggregate reserve. This evaluation is inherently subjective and estimates may be revised as more information becomes available. On the consolidated balance sheet, the allowance for doubtful accounts also includes an allowance for product returns.

     The Company makes estimates of its potential future product returns based on average historical returns, current economic trends and changes in customer demand and acceptance of products. This evaluation is inherently subjective and estimates may be revised as more information becomes available.

Allowances for doubtful accounts and product returns deducted from asset accounts were as follows:
 
   
Balance at
                   
Balance at
 
   
Beginning of
 
Charged to
             
End of
 
   
Period
 
Expense
 
Other
 
Write-offs
 
Period
 
Year ended August 25, 2007
 
$
     2,330
 
$
         8,132
 
$
        152
 
$
    (8,504)
 
$
        2,110
 
Year ended August 26, 2006
   
     2,794
   
         6,923
   
             -
   
    (7,387)
   
        2,330
 
Year ended August 27, 2005
   
     2,862
   
         7,050
   
          99
   
    (7,217)
   
        2,794
 

Inventories

     Inventories, which include raw materials, work-in-process and finished goods, are stated at the lower of cost or market using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method, net of allowance for obsolete inventory.

Independent Sales Representative Advances and Related Reserve

     The Company advances commissions to independent sales representatives as prepaid commissions against anticipated earnings. Such advances are offset against payments for commissions earned by the independent sales representatives on product sales. The Company provides reserves to cover those amounts which it estimates to be uncollectible. These amounts are included in prepaid expenses and other current assets and long term other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The portion of the advances, net of related reserves, that are not expected to be earned through commissions during the next fiscal year are classified as other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

     The Company advances commissions to new independent sales representatives that are developing sales territories and makes payments to predecessor independent sales representatives on behalf of successor independent sales representatives. Such amounts are offset against payments for commissions earned by the independent sales representatives on product sales. The Company provides reserves to cover those amounts that it estimates to be uncollectible.


52

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
Reserves on independent sales representative advances deducted from asset accounts were as follows:
 
   
Balance at
                   
   
Beginning of
 
Charged to
       
Balance at End of
 
   
Period
 
Expense
 
Write-offs(1)
 
Period
 
Year ended August 25, 2007
 
$
      2,055
 
$
        2,415
 
$
     (1,969
$
         2,501
 
Year ended August 26, 2006
   
      2,536
   
        1,867
   
     (2,348
 
         2,055
 
Year ended August 27, 2005
   
      2,383
   
        1,794
   
     (1,641
 
         2,536
 
                           
(1)          Represents principally write-offs of terminated sales representative amounts and forgiveness of amounts by the Company.
 

Property, Plant and Equipment

     Property, plant and equipment are stated at historical cost net of accumulated depreciation. Maintenance, repairs and minor replacements are charged against operations as incurred; major replacements and betterments are capitalized at cost. The cost of assets sold or retired and the related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts at the time of disposition, and any resulting gain or loss is reflected in operating results for the period. Depreciation is provided principally using the straight-line method based on estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:

Description
 
Useful life
Buildings and improvements
 
10 to 33 years
Tools and dies
 
8 years
Machinery and equipment
 
2 to 10 years
Leasehold improvements
 
Shorter of useful life or term of lease

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

     The Company accounts for goodwill and other intangible assets in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets” (“SFAS 142”). Goodwill and other intangible assets are originally recorded at their fair values at the date of acquisition. Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles are not amortized, but are tested annually for impairment, or more frequently if impairment indicators occur. Definite-lived intangibles are amortized over their estimated useful lives and are evaluated for impairment annually, or more frequently if impairment indicators are present, using a process similar to that used to test other long-lived assets for impairment.

     The impairment test for goodwill and intangible assets requires management to make judgments in connection with identifying reporting units, assigning assets and liabilities to reporting units and determining fair value of each reporting unit. Significant judgments required to estimate the fair value of reporting units include projecting future cash flows, determining appropriate discount rates and other assumptions. The projections are based on historical performance and future estimated results.

Impairment of Long-lived Assets

SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets,” (“SFAS 144”) requires an entity to review long-lived tangible and intangible assets with definite lives for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of these assets is measured by comparison of its carrying amount to future undiscounted cash flows the assets are expected to generate. In applying SFAS 144, assets are grouped and evaluated at the lowest level for which there are identifiable cash flows that are largely independent of the cash flows of other groups of assets. The Company considers historical performance and future estimated results in its evaluation of impairment. If the carrying amount of the asset exceeds expected undiscounted future cash flows, the Company measures the amount of impairment by comparing the carrying amount of the asset to its fair value, generally measured by discounting expected future cash flows at the rate it utilizes to evaluate potential investments.
53

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
Customer Deposits

     Amounts received from customers in the form of cash down payments to purchase goods are recorded as a liability until the goods are shipped.

Income Taxes

     In accordance with SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes,” deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. Deferred tax assets are recognized net of any valuation allowance. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in operations in the period that includes the enactment date.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

     The Company’s financial instruments consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, book overdraft, accounts payable and long-term debt (including current maturities). The carrying amounts of the Company’s cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, book overdraft and accounts payable approximate fair value due to their short-term nature. The fair value of the Company’s long-term debt at August 25, 2007 is approximately $16.3 million lower than the carrying value based on current rates available to the Company for debt with the same or similar terms.

Revenue Recognition and Warranty Costs

     The Company’s revenues from product sales are generally recognized at the time the product is shipped, the risks and rewards of ownership have passed to the customer and collectibility is reasonably assured. The Company’s stated shipping terms are FOB shipping point. Provisions for sales returns, warranty costs and rebate expenses are recorded based upon historical information and current trends.

     The Company’s accounting method for recognizing revenue and related gross profit on class ring sales through independent sales representatives, along with commissions to independent sales representatives that are directly related to the revenue, is to defer the revenue until the independent sales representative delivers the product to the Company’s end customer.

     The Company recognizes revenues on its publishing operations based upon the completed contract method, when the products are shipped.

     Product warranty liabilities were as follows:
 
   
Balance at
                   
   
Beginning of
 
Charged to
       
Balance at End of
 
   
Period
 
 Expense
 
Claims
 
Period
 
Year ended August 25, 2007
 
$
            1,116
 
$
               761
 
$
     (722
$
            1,155
 
Year ended August 26, 2006
   
            1,182
   
               348
   
     (414
 
            1,116
 
Year ended August 27, 2005
   
            1,210
   
               808
   
     (836
 
            1,182
 

54

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
Seasonality

     The seasonal nature of the Company’s various businesses tends to be tempered by its broad product mix. Class ring sales are highest during October through December and early spring, with many orders made for delivery to students before the winter holiday season. Graduation product sales are predominantly made during February through April prior to the April through June graduation season. Yearbook sales are highest during the months of April through June, as yearbooks are typically shipped prior to each school’s summer break. The Company’s recognition and affinity product line sales are also seasonal. The majority of the Company’s achievement publications are shipped in August of each year. The remaining recognition and affinity product line sales are highest during the winter holiday season and in the period leading up to Mother’s Day.

     As a result of the foregoing, the Company has historically experienced operating losses during its first and fourth fiscal quarters, which includes the beginning of the school year and the summer months when school is not in session, thus reducing related shipment of products. In addition, the Company’s working capital requirements tend to exceed its operating cash flows from May through September.

Concentration of Credit Risk

     Credit is extended to certain industries, such as educational and retail, which may be affected by changes in economic or other external conditions. The Company’s policy is to manage its exposure to credit risk through credit approvals and limits.

Shipping and Handling Fees

     In accordance with Emerging Issues Task Force Issue No. 00-10, “Accounting for Shipping and Handling Fees and Costs,” the Company recognizes as revenue amounts billed to customers related to shipping and handling, with the related expense recorded as a component of cost of sales.

Supplier Concentration

     The Company purchases substantially all synthetic and semi-precious stones from a single supplier located in Germany. The Company purchases a majority of its gold from a single supplier, The Bank of Nova Scotia, through an existing gold consignment agreement.

Advertising

      The Company expenses advertising costs as incurred; however in accordance with AICPA Statement of Position 93-7 “Reporting on Advertising Costs” the Company defers certain advertising costs until the first time the advertising takes place. These deferred advertising costs are included in prepaid expenses and other current assets.

     Selling, general and administrative expenses for the Company include advertising expenses of $5,281, $6,160 and $5,999 for the years ended August 25, 2007, August 26, 2006 and August 27, 2005, respectively.
     
Use of Estimates

     The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, as well as the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
55

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
Recent Accounting Pronouncements

     In May 2005, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued SFAS No. 154, “Accounting Changes and Error Corrections” (“SFAS 154”), which replaces Accounting Principles Board (“APB”) Opinion No. 20, “Accounting Changes” and SFAS No. 3, “Reporting Accounting Changes in Interim Financial Statements.” SFAS 154 requires retrospective application of a voluntary change in accounting principle, unless it is impracticable to do so. This statement carries forward without change the guidance in APB Opinion No. 20 for reporting the correction of an error in previously issued financial statements and a change in accounting estimate. SFAS 154 became effective for changes in accounting principle made in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2005. The Company adopted the provisions of SFAS 154 in its fiscal year 2007 and its adoption had no impact on its financial position or results of operations.

     In July 2006, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” (“FIN 48”), which prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. In addition, FIN 48 provides guidance on derecognition, classification, accounting in interim periods and disclosure requirements for uncertain tax positions. The accounting provisions of FIN 48 will be effective for the Company beginning with its fiscal year 2008. The Company is currently evaluating the impact this standard will have on its financial position and results of operations.

     In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“SFAS 157”), which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS 157 applies under other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements and does not require any new fair value measurements. The provisions of SFAS 157 are effective for the Company beginning with its fiscal year 2009. The Company is currently evaluating the impact this standard will have on its financial position and results of operations.

     In September 2006, the SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 108, “Considering the Effects of Prior Year Misstatements when Quantifying Misstatements in Current Year Financial Statements” (“SAB 108”). SAB 108 requires companies to evaluate the materiality of identified unadjusted errors on each financial statements and related financial statement disclosure using both the rollover approach and the iron curtain approach. The requirements of SAB 108 are effective for annual financial statements covering the first fiscal year ending after November 15, 2006. The Company adopted SAB 108 during the fourth quarter of its fiscal year 2007. The adoption of SAB 108 did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated results of operations and financial condition.

     In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 158, “Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans — An Amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106 and 132 (R)” (“SFAS 158”). SFAS 158 requires an employer to recognize the funded status of defined benefit postretirement plan as an asset or liability in the balance sheet and to recognize changes in that funded status in the year in which changes occur through comprehensive income. Additionally, SFAS 158 requires an employer to measure the funded status of each of its plans as of the date of its year-end statement of financial position.  The Company adopted the recognition and disclosure provisions of SFAS 158 in our fiscal year 2007 and as a result recorded an after-tax adjustment to other comprehensive income of $3.2 million to reflect previously unrecognized net actuarial gains.  The measurement date provisions of SFAS 158 will be effective for the Company beginning with its fiscal year 2009. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that the measurement date provisions of this standard will have on its financial position and results of operations.

  In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (“SFAS 159”).  SFAS 159 permits entities to measure many financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value.  Unrealized gains and losses on items for which the fair value option has been elected are reported in earnings.  SFAS 159 is effective for fiscal years beginning with its fiscal year 2009.  The Company is currently assessing the impact of SFAS 159 on its financial position and results of operations.
56

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
2. Comprehensive Income (Loss)

     The following amounts were included in determining comprehensive income (loss) for the years ended August 25, 2007, August 26, 2006 and August 27, 2005.
 
 
For the year ended      
 
   
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
August 27, 2005 
 
Parent Holdings
                   
Net income (loss)
 
$
            (32,551
$
                   976
 
$
            1,812
 
Adjustment in minimum pension liability (net of tax impact)
   
                        -
   
                   956
   
             (956
Total comprehensive income (loss)
 
$
            (32,551
$
                1,932
 
$
               856
 
                     
 
For the year ended      
 
   
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
August 27, 2005 
 
Intermediate Holdings
                   
Net income (loss)
 
$
            (14,992
$
                4,292
 
$
            1,812
 
Adjustment in minimum pension liability (net of tax impact)
   
                        -
   
                   956
   
             (956
Total comprehensive income (loss)
 
$
            (14,992
$
                5,248
 
$
               856
 
                     
 
 For the year ended
 
   
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
August 27, 2005 
 
AAC
                   
Net income (loss)
 
$
              (7,645
$
              11,327
 
$
            6,707
 
Adjustment in minimum pension liability (net of tax impact)
   
                        -
   
                   956
   
             (956
Total comprehensive income (loss)
 
$
              (7,645
$
              12,283
 
$
            5,751
 
                     

3. Business Acquisitions
     
     Effective April 1, 2007, Commemorative Brands, Inc. (“CBI”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of AAC, acquired all of the outstanding stock of BFJ Holdings, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiary, Powers Embroidery Inc. (“Powers”). Powers is a producer of quality letter jackets, chenille patches and other school spirit embroidery merchandise, located in Waco, Texas. The purchase price in connection with this acquisition was approximately $6.2 million, including transaction costs, with up to $1.5 million additional to be paid upon achieving certain financial goals through August 2010. The Powers acquisition was accounted for using the purchase method of accounting. Pro forma results of operations have not been presented since the effect of the Powers acquisition on AAC’s financial position and results of operations is not material.

     AAC has allocated the purchase price of Powers as follows:
 
Working Capital
$
                     903
 
Property, plant and equipment
 
                  1,220
 
Goodwill
 
                  2,912
 
Intangible assets
 
                  2,454
 
Deferred income taxes
 
                (1,333
Total purchase price
$
                  6,156
 

57

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
4. Inventories, Net

 A summary of inventories, net is as follows:

 
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
Raw materials
$
             19,357
 
$
             17,759
 
Work in process
 
               4,853
   
               6,473
 
Finished goods
 
               7,941
   
               7,400
 
Less—Reserves
 
                (993
 
                (194
 
$
             31,158
 
$
             31,438
 

    The Company’s cost of sales includes depreciation and amortization of $10,091, $9,424 and $9,222 for the years ended August 25, 2007, August 26, 2006 and August 27, 2005, respectively.

     The Company expensed gold consignment fees of $49, $291 and $342 for the years ended August 25, 2007, August 26, 2006 and August 27, 2005, respectively. Under the terms of the consignment arrangement, the Company does not own the consigned gold nor does it have risk of loss related to price variation on such inventory until the Company has paid for the gold purchased.  The Company pays for the consigned gold as its related products are shipped to customers. Accordingly, the Company does not include the value of consigned gold in its inventory or the corresponding liability for financial statement purposes. The Company did not hold any gold on consignment at August 25, 2007 and August 26, 2006, respectively. The gold consignment agreement does not have a stated period and it can be terminated by either party upon 60 days written notice.

5. Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets, Net

     Prepaid expenses and other current assets, net consist of the following:
 
 
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
Sales representative advances
$
            7,793
 
$
            7,830
 
Less—reserve on sales representative advances
 
             (970
 
          (2,055
Deferred publication and ring costs
 
            1,438
   
               364
 
Prepaid advertising and promotional materials
 
            2,016
   
            2,254
 
Prepaid management fees — related party
 
               250
   
               250
 
Prepaid commissions
 
            2,793
   
            1,656
 
Other
 
            4,997
   
            3,645
 
 
$
          18,317
 
$
          13,944
 

58

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
6. Property, Plant and Equipment, Net

     Property, plant and equipment, net consist of the following:
 
 
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
Land
$
             6,897
 
$
             9,550
 
Buildings and improvements
 
             9,260
   
             8,884
 
Tools and dies
 
           25,174
   
           23,622
 
Machinery and equipment
 
           69,167
   
           61,335
 
Construction in progress
 
             5,627
   
             4,435
 
Total
 
         116,125
   
         107,826
 
Less-accumulated depreciation
 
         (45,472
 
         (31,772
Property, plant, and equipment, net
$
           70,653
 
$
           76,054
 

     The Company’s depreciation expense recorded in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations was $13,810, $13,230 and $13,415 for the years ended August 25, 2007, August 26, 2006 and August 27, 2005, respectively.

     The Company’s only commitment for equipment under the noncancellable portion of all capital leases is $174 and is payable in fiscal 2008.  Capital lease assets are carried on the balance sheet under machinery and equipment, net and their corresponding liabilities are carried under accrued expenses (short-term portion) and other long-term liabilities (long-term portion). Capital lease liabilities are $174 and $1,466 as of August 25, 2007 and August 26, 2006. Gross capital lease assets are $5,022 as of August 25, 2007 and August 26, 2006, respectively with accumulated depreciation of $2,053 and $1,470, respectively.

During fiscal 2007, the Company recorded an impairment charge of $1.2 million for its achievement publications segment in accordance with SFAS 144 (see Note 7).  This charge reduced the carrying value of construction in progress in the achievement publications segment and is included in other charges in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

7. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Goodwill

The changes in the net carrying amount of goodwill were as follows:
 
   
Class
       
Graduation 
 
Achievement 
             
   
Rings
 
Yearbooks
 
Products
 
Publications
 
Other
 
Total
 
Balance at August 27, 2005
 
$
  71,792
 
$
 65,241
 
$
  23,242
 
$
     11,693
 
$
  12,058
 
$
  184,026
 
Post closing purchase price adjustment
   
           -
   
           -
   
       539
   
              -
   
           -
   
         539
 
Balance at August 26,2006
 
$
  71,792
 
$
 65,241
 
$
  23,781
 
$
     11,693
 
$
  12,058
 
$
  184,565
 
Goodwill from Powers acquisition
   
           -
   
           -
   
           -
   
              -
   
    2,912
   
      2,912
 
Impairment write-down
   
  (4,700
 
           -
   
           -
   
     (9,500
 
           -
   
  (14,200
Balance at August 25, 2007
 
$
  67,092
 
$
 65,241
 
$
  23,781
 
$
       2,193
 
$
  14,970
 
$
  173,277
 
59

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
Other Intangible Assets     

Other intangible assets consisted of the following:
 
   
Fiscal Year Ended August 25, 2007    
 
   
Estimated
 
Gross
 
Accumulated
Net
 
   
Useful Life
 
Asset
 
Amortization
 
Asset
 
Trademarks
 
Indefinite
 
$
      37,433
 
$
                 -
 
$
       37,433
 
Deferred financing costs and other
                       
   Parent Holdings
 
7 to 8 years
   
      24,263
   
       (8,235
 
       16,028
 
   Intermediate Holdings
 
7 to 8 years
   
      14,771
   
       (6,394
 
         8,377
 
   AAC
 
7 to 8 years
   
      11,263
   
       (5,148
 
         6,115
 
Patents
 
14 to 17 years
   
        7,317
   
       (1,516
 
         5,801
 
Customer lists and distribution contracts
 
3 to 12 years
   
    102,968
   
     (38,347
 
       64,621
 
Total Parent Holdings
     
$
  171,981
 
$
    (48,098
) 
$
   123,883
 
Total Intermediate Holdings
     
$
  162,489
 
$
    (46,257
) 
$
   116,232
 
Total AAC
     
$
  158,981
 
$
    (45,011
) 
$
   113,970
 
                         
   
Fiscal Year Ended August 26, 2006   
 
   
Estimated
 
Gross
 
Accumulated
Net
 
   
Useful Life
 
Asset
 
Amortization
 
Asset
 
Trademarks
 
Indefinite
 
$
      50,095
 
$
                 -
 
$
       50,095
 
Deferred financing costs and other
                       
   Parent Holdings
 
7 to 8 years
   
      24,084
   
       (4,745
 
       19,339
 
   Intermediate Holdings
 
7 to 8 years
   
      14,755
   
       (4,419
 
       10,336
 
   AAC
 
7 to 8 years
   
      11,247
   
       (3,619
 
         7,628
 
Patents
 
14 to 17 years
   
        7,317
   
       (1,072
 
         6,245
 
Customer lists and distribution contracts
 
3 to 12 years
   
    100,516
   
     (27,600
 
       72,916
 
Total Parent Holdings
     
$
  182,012
 
$
    (33,417
) 
$
   148,595
 
Total Intermediate Holdings
     
$
  172,683
 
$
    (33,091
) 
$
   139,592
 
Total AAC
     
$
  169,175
 
$
    (32,291
$
   136,884
 
  
During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007, the Company began evaluating strategic options for the achievement publications segment due to a financial downturn in this segment.  At August 25, 2007, it was management’s expectation that the achievement publications segment would be sold or otherwise disposed of significantly before the end of its previously estimated useful life.  As this is an indicator that the carrying amount of the related assets may not be recoverable, it is considered a triggering event requiring that the assets of the achievement publications segment be tested for recoverability in accordance with SFAS 144 and SFAS 142.  The impairment analysis indicated that an impairment in goodwill, trademarks, and tangible assets existed as of August 25, 2007.  The Company recorded a charge of $22.8 million, of which $12.1 million reduced the carrying value of trademarks, $9.5 million reduced the carrying value of goodwill, and $1.2 million reduced the carrying value of fixed assets in the achievement publications segment. This charge is included in other charges in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

Under the provisions of SFAS 142, the Company tests goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles for impairment on an annual basis or more frequently if impairment indicators occur. As a result of the annual impairment review performed in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007, the Company recorded an impairment of $4.9 million related to goodwill and trademarks in its retail class rings business that is included in the class rings business segment and $0.3 million related to trademarks in its personalized fashion jewelry business that is included in the other business segment to adjust the carrying value to the current net realizable value. These charges are included in other charges in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.  The goodwill impairment in the retail class rings was primarily due to lower revenue forecasts reflecting the softness in the retail jewelry market serving class rings and the continued consolidation in the independent jeweler segment. The annual impairment review performed in the other businesses did not reveal any impairment.

For Parent Holdings, total amortization on other intangible assets was $14,681 and $14,108 for the years ended August 25, 2007 and August 26, 2006, respectively, of which amortization on deferred financing costs is recorded as interest expense and amortization on patents and customer lists and distribution contracts is recorded as amortization expense. Estimated annual amortization expense is $13,735, $13,735, $13,735, $13,218 and $12,147, respectively, for fiscal years 2008 through 2012.
     
For Intermediate Holdings, total amortization on other intangible assets was $13,166, $13,808 and $13,716 for the years ended August 25, 2007, August 26, 2006 and August 27, 2005, respectively, of which amortization on deferred financing costs is recorded as interest expense and amortization on patents and customer lists and distribution contracts is recorded as amortization expense. Estimated annual amortization expense is $12,220, $12,220, $12,220, $11,703 and $10,632 respectively, for fiscal years 2008 through 2012.
    
For AAC, total amortization on other intangible assets was $12,720, $13,362 and $13,361 for the years ended August 25, 2007, August 26, 2006 and August 27, 2005, respectively, of which amortization on deferred financing costs is recorded as interest expense and amortization on patents and customer lists and distribution contracts is recorded as amortization expense. Estimated annual amortization expense is $11,774, $11,774, $11,774, $11,257 and $10,186 respectively, for fiscal years 2008 through 2012.
60

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
8. Accrued Expenses     

    Accrued expenses consists of the following:
 
 
August 25, 2007 
 
 August 26, 2006
 
Parent Holdings
           
  Commissions and royalties
$
               9,345
 
$
              8,653
 
  Compensation and related costs
 
               4,675
   
              5,795
 
  Accumulated pension and postretirement benefit cost
 
                  270
   
              3,379
 
  Accrued sales and property taxes
 
               1,962
   
              1,492
 
  Accrued workman’s compensation and medical claims
 
                  881
   
                 906
 
  Capital lease obligations, short term
 
                  173
   
              1,293
 
  Accrued expenses — related party
 
                       -
   
                   90
 
  Other
 
               3,055
   
              1,774
 
 
$
             20,361
 
$
            23,382
 
             
             
 
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
Intermediate Holdings
           
  Commissions and royalties
$
               9,345
 
$
              8,653
 
  Compensation and related costs
 
               4,674
   
              5,795
 
  Accumulated pension and postretirement benefit cost
 
                  270
   
              3,379
 
  Accrued sales and property taxes
 
               1,962
   
              1,492
 
  Accrued workman’s compensation and medical claims
 
                  881
   
                 906
 
  Capital lease obligations, short term
 
                  173
   
              1,293
 
  Accrued expenses — related party
 
                       -
   
                   90
 
  Other
 
               2,994
   
              1,684
 
 
$
             20,299
 
$
            23,292
 
             
             
 
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
AAC
           
  Commissions and royalties
$
               9,345
 
$
              8,653
 
  Compensation and related costs
 
               4,674
   
              5,795
 
  Accumulated pension and postretirement benefit cost
 
                  270
   
              3,379
 
  Accrued sales and property taxes
 
               1,962
   
              1,492
 
  Accrued workman’s compensation and medical claims
 
                  881
   
                 906
 
  Capital lease obligations, short term
 
                  173
   
              1,293
 
  Accrued expenses — related party
 
                       -
   
                   90
 
  Other
 
               2,979
   
              1,682
 
 
$
             20,284
 
$
            23,290
 
61

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
9. Long-term Debt

     Long-term debt consists of the following:
 
 
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
Parent Holdings
           
Senior PIK Notes due October 1, 2012 (including $25,844 and $4,197 PIK interest, respectively)
$
             175,844
 
$
           154,197
 
10.25% Senior discount notes due October 1, 2012 (net of unamortized discount of $13,646 and $24,683, respectively)
             117,854
   
           106,817
 
8.25% Senior subordinated notes due April 1, 2012
 
             150,000
   
           150,000
 
Senior secured credit facility:
           
   Revolving credit facility due 2010
 
                 7,805
   
               9,300
 
   Term loan due 2011
 
               87,077
   
           106,510
 
Total
 
             538,580
   
           526,824
 
Less current portion of long-term debt
 
                  (900
 
             (1,090
Total long-term debt
$
             537,680
 
$
           525,734
 
             
             
 
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
Intermediate Holdings
           
10.25% Senior discount notes due October 1, 2012 (net of unamortized discount of $13,646 and $24,683, respectively)
$
             117,854
 
$
           106,817
 
8.25% Senior subordinated notes due April 1, 2012
 
             150,000
   
           150,000
 
Senior secured credit facility:
           
   Revolving credit facility due 2010
 
                 7,805
   
               9,300
 
   Term loan due 2011
 
               87,077
   
           106,510
 
Total
 
             362,736
   
           372,627
 
Less current portion of long-term debt
 
                  (900
 
             (1,090
Total long-term debt
$
             361,836
 
$
           371,537
 
             
             
 
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
AAC
           
8.25% Senior subordinated notes due April 1, 2012
$
             150,000
 
$
           150,000
 
Senior secured credit facility:
           
   Revolving credit facility due 2010
 
                 7,805
   
               9,300
 
   Term loan due 2011
 
               87,077
   
           106,510
 
Total
 
             244,882
   
           265,810
 
Less current portion of long-term debt
 
                  (900
 
             (1,090
Total long-term debt
$
             243,982
 
$
           264,720
 
62

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
Senior PIK Notes

     Parent Holdings was formed in May 2006, as the parent of Intermediate Holdings and has no separate operations from its ownership in Intermediate Holdings. On June 12, 2006, Parent Holdings issued $150 million of Senior PIK Notes. The net proceeds of this offering were used to pay a $140,536 dividend to stockholders. Because EBITDA fell below certain target levels for the four quarters ended February 24, 2007, the rate at which interest accrues on the Senior PIK Notes was increased by 2.00% per annum commencing on and including February 24, 2007.  Interest now accrues on these notes at 14.75% per annum. The first interest payment on the Senior PIK Notes occurred on October 1, 2006. Through April 1, 2011, interest on the Senior PIK Notes will be payable in the form of additional notes semi-annually in arrears on April 1 and October 1. On October 1, 2011, and thereafter, interest will be payable in cash semi-annually in arrears on April 1 and October 1.

     The Senior PIK Notes mature on October 1, 2012. At maturity, Parent Holdings is required to repay the Senior PIK Notes at a repayment price of 103.188% of the aggregate principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest and special interest, if any, to the maturity date.

     At any time on or after October 1, 2008, Parent Holdings may redeem the Senior PIK Notes, in whole or in part, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount plus a premium of 9.563%, declining ratably to 3.188%, plus accrued, unpaid and special interest. At any time prior to October 1, 2008, Parent Holdings may also redeem 100% (but not less than 100%) of the then outstanding notes. The Senior PIK Notes are required to be redeemed with the net cash proceeds of certain equity offerings at redemption price equal to the lesser of 109.563% or the then applicable redemption price of the aggregate principal amount, plus accrued, unpaid and special interest.

     If the consolidated group leverage ratio on August 30, 2008 is greater than 5.0 to 1.0, the rate at which interest accrues on the Senior PIK Notes will increase an additional 2.00% per annum commencing on and including August 30, 2008.

     If a change in control as defined in the indenture relating to the Senior PIK Notes occurs, Parent Holdings must give the holders of the Senior PIK Notes the opportunity to sell their Senior PIK Notes to Parent Holdings at 101% of the aggregate principal amount outstanding of the Senior PIK Notes, plus accrued interest.

     Additionally, the terms of the Senior PIK Notes limit Parent Holdings’ ability to, among other things, incur additional indebtedness, dispose of assets, make acquisitions, make other investments, pay dividends and make various other payments. As of August 25, 2007, Parent Holdings was in compliance with all such provisions.

10.25% Senior Discount Notes
 
     On November 16, 2004 Intermediate Holdings issued the 10.25% Notes. The net proceeds of this offering were used as a distribution to stockholders through the repurchase of shares of Intermediate Holdings’ common stock from its stockholders. Intermediate Holdings was formed on November 8, 2004 and has no operations separate from its ownership in AAC Holding Corp. and its subsidiary, AAC. Interest accrues on the 10.25% Notes in the form of an increase in the accreted value of the notes prior to October 1, 2008. Thereafter, cash interest on the 10.25% Notes will accrue and be payable semiannually in arrears on April 1 and October 1 of each year, commencing April 1, 2009 at a rate of 10.25% per annum. Intermediate Holdings has no operating assets or liabilities other than its investment in AAC Holding Corp. and its subsidiary, AAC.

     At any time on or after October 1, 2008, Intermediate Holdings may redeem the 10.25% Notes, in whole or in part, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount plus a premium of 5.125%, declining ratably to par, plus accrued and unpaid interest.

      If a change in control as defined in the indenture relating to the 10.25% Notes occurs prior to October 1, 2008, Intermediate Holdings must give the holders of the 10.25% Notes the opportunity to sell their 10.25% Notes to Intermediate Holdings at 101% of the accreted value of the 10.25% Notes, plus accrued interest. If a change in control as defined in the indenture relating to the 10.25% Notes occurs following October 1, 2008, Intermediate Holdings must give the holders of the 10.25% Notes the opportunity to sell their 10.25% Notes to Intermediate Holdings at 101% of the aggregate principal amount at maturity of the 10.25% Notes, plus accrued interest.

     Additionally, the terms of the 10.25% Notes limit Intermediate Holdings’ ability to, among other things, incur additional indebtedness, dispose of assets, make acquisitions, make other investments, pay dividends and make various other payments. The terms also include cross-default provisions to the indenture governing the 8.25% Notes and the Senior Credit Facility (as defined below). As of August 25, 2007, Intermediate Holdings was in compliance with all such provisions.
63

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
8.25% Senior Subordinated Notes

     On March 25, 2004, AAC issued $150 million of the 8.25% Notes. The 8.25% Notes bear interest at a stated rate of 8.25%. The 8.25% Notes are unsecured senior subordinated obligations and are subordinated in right of payment to all of AAC’s existing and future senior indebtedness, including obligations under the Company’s Senior Credit Facility (as defined below), pari passu in right of payment with any of the Company’s future senior subordinated indebtedness and senior in right of payment to any of the Company’s future subordinated indebtedness. The 8.25% Notes are guaranteed by certain of the Company’s existing domestic subsidiaries (non guarantor subsidiaries are minor), and will be guaranteed by certain of the Company’s future domestic subsidiaries. The guarantees are subordinated in right of payment to all existing and future senior indebtedness of the applicable guarantor, pari passu in right of payment with any future senior subordinated debt of such guarantor and senior in right of payment to any future subordinated indebtedness of such guarantor.

     The Company may not redeem the 8.25% Notes until on or after April 1, 2008.  If a change in control as defined in the indenture relating to the 8.25% Notes occurs, the Company must give the holders of the 8.25% Notes the opportunity to sell their 8.25% Notes to the Company at 101 percent of the principal amount of the 8.25% Notes, plus accrued interest.

     The 8.25% Notes contain customary negative covenants and restrictions on actions by the Company and its subsidiaries including, without limitation, restrictions on additional indebtedness, investments, asset dispositions outside the ordinary course of business, liens and transactions with affiliates, among other restrictions (as defined in the indenture governing the 8.25% Notes). In addition, the 8.25% Notes contain covenants, which restrict the declaration or payment of dividends by the Company and/or its subsidiaries (as defined in the indenture governing the 8.25% Notes). The Company was in compliance with the 8.25% Notes covenants as of August 25, 2007.

Senior Secured Credit Facility

     On March 25, 2004, AAC entered into a $195.0 million senior credit facility (the “Senior Credit Facility”) which includes a $155.0 million term loan and up to $40.0 million available under a revolving credit facility. The Senior Credit Facility is secured by a first priority security interest in all existing and after-acquired assets of AAC, and certain of AAC’s direct and indirect domestic subsidiaries’ existing and after-acquired assets, including, without limitation, real property and all of the capital stock owned by AAC Holding Corp. and certain of AAC’s direct and indirect domestic subsidiaries (including certain capital stock of their direct foreign subsidiaries only to the extent permitted by applicable law). As of August 25, 2007, assets of AAC subject to lien under the Senior Credit Facility were approximately $291.9 million. All of AAC’s obligations under the Senior Credit Facility are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by AAC Holding Corp. and certain of AAC’s direct and indirect domestic subsidiaries.

     The term loan of the Amended Senior Credit Facility is due in March 2011. Quarterly payments of $225 are made through 2011. The term loan of the Amended Senior Credit Facility has an interest rate based on the prime rate, plus points based on a calculated leverage ratio. The weighted average interest rate on the term loan of the Amended Senior Credit Facility was approximately 7.7% and 7.8% at August 25, 2007 and August 26, 2006, respectively.

     During the year ended August 25, 2007, the Company paid down $19.4 million of the term loan of the Amended Senior Credit Facility, of which $1.0 million were four mandatory quarterly payments. In the event that there is Consolidated Excess Cash Flow, as defined in the credit agreement governing the Amended Senior Credit Facility, the Company will be required to make an additional prepayment based on the Company’s Consolidated Excess Cash Flow and Leverage Ratio. Based on the Consolidated Excess Cash Flow calculated as of August 25, 2007, the Company will repay approximately $235 in December 2007.
 
     The revolving credit facility matures in March 2010. Availability under the revolving credit facility is restricted to a total revolving commitment of $40 million as defined in the credit agreement governing the Amended Senior Credit Facility. Availability under the revolving credit facility as of August 25, 2007 was approximately $29.9 million with $2.3 million in letters of credit outstanding.
64

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
     
     Advances under the revolving credit facility may be made as base rate loans or LIBOR loans at AAC’s election (except for the initial loans which were base rate loans). Interest rates payable upon advances are based upon the base rate or LIBOR depending on the type of loan AAC chooses, plus an applicable margin based upon a consolidated leverage ratio of certain outstanding indebtedness to EBITDA (net income (loss) before interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization) to be calculated in accordance with the terms specified in the credit agreement governing the Amended Senior Credit Facility.

     The Amended Senior Credit Facility contains restrictions on the ability of AAC to pay dividends and make certain other payments to Parent Holdings and subsidiaries. Pursuant to each arrangement, AAC may, subject to certain limitations, pay dividends or make such payments in connection with (i) repurchases of certain capital stock of Parent Holdings and (ii) the payment by Parent Holdings of taxes, costs and other expenses required to maintain its legal existence and legal, accounting and other overhead costs in the ordinary course of business.

     AAC was in compliance with the Amended Senior Credit Facility’s covenants as of August 25, 2007.

Long-term debt outstanding as of August 25, 2007 matures as follows:
 
   
Parent
 
Intermediate
       
   
Holdings
 
Holdings
 
AAC
 
   
Amount
 
Amount
 
Amount
 
Fiscal year ending
 
Maturing
 
Maturing
 
Maturing
 
2008
 
$
            900
 
$
            900
 
$
            900
 
2009
   
            900
   
            900
   
            900
 
2010
   
         8,705
   
         8,705
   
         8,705
 
2011
   
       84,377
   
       84,377
   
       84,377
 
2012
   
     150,000
   
     150,000
   
     150,000
 
Thereafter
   
     293,698
   
     117,854
   
                 -
 
Total
 
$
     538,580
 
$
     362,736
 
$
     244,882
 

     Parent Holdings’ weighted average interest rate on debt outstanding as of August 25, 2007 and August 26, 2006 was 10.8% and 10.0%, respectively.

     Intermediate Holdings’ weighted average interest rate on debt outstanding as of August 25, 2007 and August 26, 2006 was 8.8% and 8.7%, respectively.

     AAC’s weighted average interest rate on debt outstanding as of August 25, 2007 and August 26, 2006 was 8.1% and 8.1%, respectively.

     Interest income, included in the Company’s interest expense, net, was $523, $468 and $201 for the fiscal years 2007, 2006 and 2005, respectively.
65

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
10. Mandatory Redeemable Preferred Stock

     On January 18, 2006, Intermediate Holdings entered into a Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with an investor pursuant to which Intermediate Holdings sold shares of its Series A Mandatory Redeemable Preferred Stock (the “Series A Preferred Stock”). In connection with the Purchase Agreement, the investor was granted (i) registration rights on the capital stock of Intermediate Holdings held by the investor in the event of an initial public offering by Intermediate Holdings, (ii) preemptive rights to purchase additional capital stock of Intermediate Holdings in order to maintain its percentage ownership in Intermediate Holdings upon the sales of additional capital stock and (iii) the right to have an observer seat on the Board of Directors of Intermediate Holdings. Intermediate Holdings issued the investor 7,500 shares of the Series A Preferred Stock for an aggregate purchase price of $7.5 million, which the investor paid to Intermediate Holdings in cash. The holders of the Series A Preferred Stock are entitled to receive cumulative dividends at a rate of 14% per year, when, as and if declared by the Board of Directors of Intermediate Holdings. All undeclared dividends and declared but unpaid dividends shall accrue from the date the stock was issued. Undeclared dividends for fiscal year 2007 and 2006 totaled $1,874 and $672, respectively, and have been recorded as accrued interest in the financial statements. The Series A Preferred Stock may be redeemed by Intermediate Holdings on or after January 18, 2007 at a price equal to 104% of the Liquidation Preference (as defined in the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Intermediate Holdings (the “Certificate of Incorporation”). Such percentage is reduced annually until the purchase price upon redemption to Intermediate Holdings is equal to 100% of the Liquidation Preference. In addition, the Series A Preferred Stock is subject to mandatory redemption on January 18, 2013 or, at the election of the investor, in the event of a Change in Control or a Public Equity Offering (each as defined in the Certificate of Incorporation).  As a result of the mandatory redemption requirements, the Series A Preferred Stock is classified as part of liabilities rather than equity.

     The holders of Series A Preferred Stock agreed in May 2006 to exchange their shares of Series A Preferred Stock for new shares of Series A Redeemable Preferred Stock of Parent Holdings, the new parent company of Intermediate Holdings. These new shares have the same rights, preferences and privileges as the Series A Preferred Stock of Intermediate Holdings.

11. Commitments and Contingencies

Leases

     Certain Company facilities and equipment are leased under agreements expiring at various dates through 2018. The Company’s commitments under the noncancellable portion of all operating leases for each of the five years ending after August 25, 2007 and thereafter are approximately as follows:

   
Operating
 
Fiscal Year Ending
 
Expense
 
2008
 
$
      1,509
 
2009
   
         796
 
2010
   
         528
 
2011
   
         404
 
2012
   
         337
 
Thereafter
   
      1,610
 
   
$
      5,184
 

     Some of the Company’s rental property leases contain options to renew the leased space for periods up to an additional ten years.

     Lease and rental expense included in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations was $2,335, $2,730 and $3,316 for the years ended August 25, 2007, August 26, 2006 and August 27, 2005, respectively. Capital lease assets are carried on the balance sheet under machinery and equipment, net and their corresponding liabilities are carried under accrued expenses (short-term portion) and other long-term liabilities (long-term portion). Capital lease liabilities were $174 and $1,466 as of August 25, 2007 and August 26, 2006, respectively.
66

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
Pending Litigation

     On July 17, 2006, in the 128th Judicial District Court of Orange County, Texas a Seventh Amended Petition (naming over 100 defendants) was filed by the estate of John Estrada and Nancy Estrada adding Taylor Publishing Company (“Taylor”) back into a long outstanding multi-party toxic tort suit. Taylor was originally brought into this lawsuit in September of 2004 when Mr. Estrada, a former employee and his wife, filed their Fifth Amended Petition seeking damages for personal injuries allegedly caused by Mr. Estrada’s exposure to benzene in the workplace. On June 21, 2005, the Estradas dismissed their case against Taylor, without prejudice, without any payment or other compensation by Taylor. Mr. Estrada is now deceased. This Seventh Amended Petition now seeks damages for his alleged wrongful death and seeks to avoid the Workers’ Compensation bar to employer liability by pleading gross negligence on the part of Taylor. Taylor filed a timely answer to the lawsuit and subsequently negotiated a settlement with prejudice with the Estradas and has subsequently been dismissed from the suit. The amount of the settlement is not material; however the settlement is covered by a confidentiality and non-disclosure agreement because the case is proceeding in court against the other defendants.

On July 31, 2007, a former employee of CBI filed a lawsuit against CBI in Travis County, Texas alleging, among other claims, that CBI discriminated and/or retaliated against him in violation of the Texas Labor Code because he had an on-the-job injury.  CBI has filed an answer to the lawsuit denying all allegations.  There have been no monetary demands or settlement offers.  The Company is unable to assess the likelihood of an adverse judgment or assess the likely range of possible loss to the Company.

     The Company is not a party to any other pending legal proceedings other than ordinary routine litigation incidental to its business. In management’s opinion, adverse decisions on these ordinary legal proceedings, individually or in the aggregate, would not have a materially adverse impact on the Company’s results of operations, financial condition or cash flows.

Plant Closure

     In April 2006, AAC announced the closure of its yearbook facility in San Angelo, Texas. The Company decided to relocate this facility to its Dallas, Texas facility, in order to take advantage of that facility’s enhanced technology and service delivery. The closure and relocation was completed by the end of August 2006. In 2006 AAC recorded $757 in one time termination benefits to employees and closure costs and $82 in impairment of assets. These costs were recorded in cost of sales and related solely to the Company’s yearbook segment. As of August 25, 2007, the Company had paid out all costs originally recorded related to this closure.

     During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007, management revised its estimated future cash flows for the San Angelo, Texas operating lease, which is no longer in use by the Company.  The revision was based on a decrease in estimated sublease rentals that can reasonably be obtained in the current market.  The cumulative effect of this change was recorded in fiscal 2007 and resulted in additional expense of $961 which was recorded in cost of sales. The consolidated balance sheets as of August 25, 2007 reflect a current liability of $593 and a long-term liability of $368, included in accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities, respectively.
67

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
12. Employee Compensation and Benefits

Postretirement Pension and Medical Benefits

     CBI provides certain healthcare and life insurance benefits for former employees of L.G. Balfour Company, Inc. (“CBI Plan”). Certain hourly employees of Taylor are covered by a defined benefit pension plan (“TPC Plan”) established by Taylor. The benefits under the CBI Plan and TPC Plan are based primarily on the employees’ years of service and compensation near retirement. The funding policies for these plans are consistent with the funding requirements of federal laws and regulations.

     In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS 158, which requires an employer to recognize the funded status of defined benefit postretirement plan as an asset or liability in the balance sheet and to recognize changes in that funded status in the year in which changes occur through comprehensive income. Additionally, SFAS 158 requires an employer to measure the funded status of each of its plans as of the date of its year-end statement of financial position.  The Company adopted the recognition and disclosure provisions of SFAS 158 in our fiscal year 2007.  The measurement date provisions of SFAS 158 will be effective for the Company beginning with its fiscal year 2009.

    For fiscal 2007, the measurement date for the CBI Plan was August 25, 2007, and the measurement date for the TPC Plan was June 30, 2007.  The Company will use a measurement date as of the end of its fiscal year for both plans on or before fiscal 2009.

The following table summarizes the impact of the initial adoption of SFAS 158:
 
   
Before Application of SFAS 158
   
Change due to SFAS 158
   
After Application of SFAS 158
 
Parent Holdings
                 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets, net
 $
                  18,259
   $
                     58
   $
           18,317
 
Total assets
 
                  476,008
   
                        58
   
            476,066
 
                   
Deferred tax liabilities
 
                      7,747
   
                   1,989
   
                9,736
 
Other long-term liabilities
 
                    11,704
   
                  (5,085
 
                6,619
 
Total liabilities
 
                  623,345
   
                  (3,096
 
            620,249
 
                   
Accumulated other comprehensive income
 
                           -
   
                   3,154
   
                3,154
 
Total stockholders’ equity
 
                (147,337
 
                   3,154
   
          (144,183
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
 
                  476,008
   
                        58
   
            476,066
 
                   
Intermediate Holdings
                 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets, net
 $
                18,259
   $
                   58
   $
         18,317
 
Total assets
 
                  468,071
   
                        58
   
            468,129
 
                   
Deferred tax liabilities
 
                    17,742
   
                   1,989
   
              19,731
 
Other long-term liabilities
 
                      8,119
   
                  (5,085
 
                3,034
 
Total liabilities
 
                  446,349
   
                  (3,096
 
            443,253
 
                   
Accumulated other comprehensive income
 
                     -        
                   3,154
   
                3,154
 
Total stockholders’ equity
 
                    21,722
   
                   3,154
   
              24,876
 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
 
                  468,071
   
                        58
   
            468,129
 
                   
AAC
                 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets, net
 $
                 18,259
   $
                    58
   $
         18,317
 
Total assets
 
                  465,261
   
                        58
   
            465,319
 
                   
Deferred tax liabilities
 
                    28,650
   
                   1,989
   
              30,639
 
Other long-term liabilities
 
                      8,091
   
                  (5,085
 
                3,006
 
Total liabilities
 
                  339,360
   
                  (3,096
 
            336,264
 
                   
Accumulated other comprehensive income
 
                           -
   
                   3,154
   
                3,154
 
Total stockholders’ equity
 
                  125,901
   
                   3,154
   
            129,055
 
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
 
                  465,261
   
                        58
   
            465,319
 
                   
     In the tables and information below, data for the fiscal year 2007 and 2006 relates to the Company and data for the fiscal year 2005 relates to Intermediate Holdings and AAC.
68

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
    
     The following table sets forth the funded status of each plan:
    
 
August 25, 2007    
 
August 26, 2006    
 
 
Taylor pension
 
CBI post-retirement
 
Taylor pension
 
CBI post-retirement
 
Change in benefit obligation:
                       
Obligation beginning of the year
$
       13,871
 
$
                   2,392
 
$
       16,363
 
$
                4,326
 
Service cost
 
              81
   
                           -
   
              98
   
                        -
 
Interest cost
 
            899
   
                      108
   
            844
   
                   139
 
Actuarial loss (gain)
 
            496
   
                        51
   
        (2,785
 
                  (583
Benefit payments
 
          (696
 
                    (263
 
           (649
 
                  (423
Amendment
 
                 -
         
                 -
   
               (1,067
Obligation, end of year
$
       14,651
 
$
                   2,288
 
$
       13,871
 
$
                2,392
 
Change in fair value of plan assets:
                       
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year
$
       12,089
 
$
                           -
 
$
       11,121
 
$
                        -
 
Actual return of plan assets
 
         2,136
   
                           -
   
         1,051
   
                        -
 
Employer contributions
 
            969
   
                      263
   
            566
   
                   423
 
Benefit payments
 
          (696
 
                    (263
 
           (649
 
                  (423
Fair value of plan assets, end of year
$
       14,498
 
$
                           -
 
$
       12,089
 
$
                        -
 
Funded status:
                       
Unfunded accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets
$
          (153
$
                 (2,288
$
        (1,781
$
               (2,392
Unrecognized net loss (gain)
 
 n/a
   
 n/a
   
        (1,377
 
               (2,662
Unrecognized prior service cost
 
 n/a
   
 n/a
   
                 -
   
               (1,005
Contributions from measurement date to period end
 
            211
   
                           -
   
            182
   
                        -
 
Accumulated postretirement benefit cost, current and long-term
$
              58
 
$
                 (2,288
$
        (2,976
$
               (6,059
 
     The net periodic postretirement benefit cost includes the following components:

 
Fiscal Year Ended            
 
 
August 25, 2007    
 
August 26, 2006    
 
August 27, 2005    
 
 
Taylor
 
CBI
 
Taylor
 
CBI
 
Taylor
 
CBI
 
 
pension
 
post-retirement
 
pension
 
post-retirement
 
pension
 
post-retirement
 
Service costs, benefits attributed to Service during the period
 $
          81
 
 $
              -
 
 $
          98
 
 $
              -
 
 $
          78
 
 $
              -
 
Interest cost
 
        899
   
           108
   
        844
   
            139
   
        835
   
            152
 
Expected return on assets
 
      (987
 
              -
   
      (892
 
              -
   
      (833
 
              -
 
Amortization of unrecognized net loss (gain)
 
          -
   
          (352
 
          -
   
          (316
 
          -
   
          (284
Amortization of unrecognized net prior service costs
 
          -
   
          (149
 
          -
   
            (62
 
          -
   
              -
 
 
 $
          (7
 $
          (393
 $
          50
 
 $
          (239
 $
          80
 
 $
          (132
     
     Following is information for the CBI Plan, which has an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets:
 
 
August 25, 2007
August 26, 2006
Projected benefit obligation
                      2,288
                      2,392
Accumulated benefit obligation
                      2,288
                      2,392
Fair value of plan assets
                            -
                            -
69

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
  
      Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income consist of:
 
   
August 25, 2007
 
  August 26, 2006 
 
   
Taylor pension
   
CBI post-retirement
 
Taylor pension
 
CBI post-retirement
 
Net gain
 $ 
             (2,028
 $ 
                     (2,259
 n/a
 
 n/a
 
Prior service cost
 
                       -
   
                           (856
 n/a
 
 n/a
 
   $ 
            (2,028
 $ 
                    (3,115
       

     The estimated net gain for the TPC Plan that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost over the next fiscal year is $36.  The estimated net gain and estimated prior service credit for the CBI Plan that will be amortized from accumulated other income into net periodic postretirement benefit cost over the next fiscal year are $10 and $149, respectively.

     In May 2004, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position 106-2 (“FSP 106-2”) as a result of the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 (the “Medicare Subsidy Act”). The Medicare Subsidy Act entitles employers who provide certain prescription drug benefits for retirees to receive a federal subsidy beginning in calendar 2006, thereby creating the potential for significant benefit cost savings. FSP 106-2 requires companies to record the amount expected to be received under the Medicare Subsidy Act as an actuarial gain, to the extent the related post-retirement medical plan’s total unrecognized actuarial gains or losses exceed certain thresholds, to be amortized into income over time. During the first quarter of fiscal 2005, the Company adopted the provisions of this pronouncement and recorded a reduction of service costs for fiscal 2005 of $93 as a component of net postretirement health care costs attributable to current services and a reduction of $537 in the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation.

     The significant assumptions used in the measurement of the benefit obligation were as follows:

 
August 25, 2007
 
August 26, 2006
CBI Plan-
     
Weighted average discount rate
5.00%
 
4.75%
Healthcare trend rate
     
Current year trend rate
9.00%
 
9.00%
Ultimate year trend rate
5.00%
 
5.50%
Year of ultimate trend rate
2011
 
2010
       
TPC Plan-
     
Weighted average discount rate
6.40%
 
6.65%
Long-term rate of return on assets
8.00%
 
8.00%
Annual salary increases
3.25%
 
3.25%

     As the CBI Plan is unfunded, no assumption is needed as to the long-term rate of return on assets.

     The healthcare cost trend rate assumption has a significant effect on the amounts reported. Increasing (or decreasing) the assumed healthcare cost trend rate one percentage point in each year would increase (or decrease) the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation by $111, or 5 percent and $130, or 5 percent, as of August 25, 2007 and August 26, 2006, respectively, and the aggregate of the service and interest cost components of the net periodic postretirement benefit cost by $6, or 6 percent and $8, or 6 percent, for the fiscal years ended 2007 and 2006, respectively.
70

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
    
      The weighted-average asset allocations for TPC Plan as of the measurement date of 2007 and 2006, by asset category, are as follows:
 
 Asset Category   
 2007
   
 2006
   
 Target
   
   Equity securities  
 76.0
 %  
 73.0
 %  
 10.0-70.0
%  
   Debt securities  
 18.0
 %  
 22.0
 %  
 10.0-50.0
 %  
   Other  
 6.0
 %  
 5.0
 %  
 0.0-20.0
 %  
   
 100.0
 %  
 100.0
 %  
 100.0
 %  
     
     The expected long-term rate of return of the plan’s total assets is based on the expected return of each of the above categories, weighted based on the target allocation for each class. Long-term historical relationships between equity and debt securities are considered, along with the general investment principles for assets of higher volatility generating higher returns over the long-term, and consideration of current market factors such as inflation and interest rates. Equity securities are expected to return 8% to 10% over the long-term, while debt securities are expected to return between 3% and 6%.

     Projections of future cash flows for the CBI Plan are as follows for each of the fiscal years ending:
 
2008
$
270
 
2009
 
265
 
2010
 
257
 
2011
 
246
 
2012
 
232
 
2013-2017
 
932
 
     
     Projected contributions include $700 to the TPC Plan in 2008. The actual amount of contributions is dependent upon the actual return on plan assets. Future benefit payments for the TPC Plan, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate, are expected to be paid as follows for each of the fiscal years ending:

2008
$
720
 
2009
 
771
 
2010
 
799
 
2011
 
812
 
2012
 
838
 
2013-2017
 
4,543
 
     
The policy, as established by the Corporate Pension Committee, is to provide for growth of capital with a moderate level of volatility by investing assets per the target allocations stated above for equity and debt securities. Equity investments are diversified across U.S. and non-U.S. stocks as well as growth and value funds with small and large capitalizations. The asset allocation, investment risk, investment performance and the investment policy is reviewed on at least a semi-annual basis to determine if any changes are needed. The Company employs the services of a leading global financial services firm to advise on their views of important developments within the economy and securities markets and recommend actions when appropriate, taking into consideration the stated policies and objectives.

American Achievement Corporation 401(K) Plan

     The American Achievement Corporation 401(K) Plan (“Plan”) covers the Austin-based union employees and substantially all non-union employees of the Company. The Plan matches 50 percent of participants’ voluntary contributions up to a discretionary percent determined by the Company. The discretionary percentage in effect for the Plan year ended December 31, 2006 was up to 4 percent for salaried and hourly employees, and there have been no changes in this discretionary percentage through August 2007. The Company made contributions of approximately $659, $757 and $720 for the fiscal years ended August 25, 2007, August 26, 2006 and August 27, 2005, respectively.
71

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
Cash Incentive Plan

     Certain members of senior management of the Company and specified members of the Board of Directors are eligible to participate in the American Achievement Corporation Executive Cash Incentive Plan (the “CIP”).  Payment from the CIP occurs upon the occurrence of a qualified liquidity event, e.g. change of control of the company.  The CIP is intended to reward an ownership mentality in its members.  Participants in the CIP earn the right to receive payment depending on the number of “units” held by that participant.  Units are typically granted by the Compensation Committee to key employees on hire.  Units may also be granted on a discretionary basis to recognize exceptional performance.  The maximum number of units available to all plan participants is 150,000.  Units may either be awarded to the employee as Liquidity Event Units, which vest automatically upon occurrence of a qualified liquidity event or as Time-Based Units, which are vested over time.  Participants become vested in the Time-Based Units ratably over a 5-year period with one-fifth vesting on each subsequent anniversary of the unit grant date.  The vesting of all or any portion of the participants’ units may be accelerated, at any time in the sole discretion of the Board of Directors.  Following a qualified liquidity event, a percentage of the participants’ available vested units over the maximum number of units available determines their right to receive from 5% to 15% (based on the net proceeds) of the net proceeds available to the CIP.  The net proceeds available to the CIP are determined by the amount paid for the company after certain debt and equity interests (including dividends previously received) of the owners have been realized.  As the payment under the CIP is contingent on occurrence of liquidity event which is not assessed to be probable as of the date of the financial statements, and the amount payable under the plan is contingent on proceeds to be received upon the liquidity event, which amount is not reasonably estimable as of the date of the financial statements, no expense has been recognized for units granted under the plan as of August 25, 2007.  Any expense that could result under the CIP would be recorded at the time of a qualified liquidity event.  At August 25, 2007 there were 109,483 units outstanding under the CIP.

     Certain members of senior management of the Company are also eligible to participate in the American Achievement Corporation Supplemental Incentive Plan (the “SIP”).  Payment from the SIP occurs upon the occurrence of a qualified liquidity event, e.g. change of control of the company.  The SIP was designed to provide a one-time incentive award to key senior management employees.  Participants in the SIP earn the right to receive payment depending on the number of “units” held by that participant.  Units are granted on a discretionary basis to recognize exceptional performance.  The maximum number of units available to all plan participants is 1,000. Units will vest automatically upon occurrence of a qualified liquidity event during the term of the participant’s employment with the Company.  Following a qualified liquidity event, a percentage of the participants’ available vested units over the maximum number of units available determines their right to receive a portion of the net proceeds available to the SIP.  The net proceeds available to the SIP are determined by the amount paid for the company after certain debt and equity interests (including dividends previously received) of the owners have been realized and payments pursuant to the CIP have been made. At August 25, 2007 there were 428 units outstanding under the SIP.
72

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
13. Income Taxes

     The Company and its wholly-owned and majority owned domestic subsidiaries file a consolidated federal income tax return. The provision (benefit) for income taxes reflected in the consolidated statements of operations consists of the following:
 
   
Fiscal Year Ended      
 
   
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
August 27, 2005 
 
Parent Holdings
                   
  Federal—
                   
    Current
 
$
                     355
 
$
                     325
 
$
                       40
 
    Deferred
   
              (15,691
 
                  1,301
   
                  1,319
 
  State—
                   
    Current
   
                  1,712
   
                     441
   
                     177
 
    Deferred
   
                (1,803
 
                     149
   
                     202
 
   
$
              (15,427
$
                  2,216
 
$
                  1,738
 
                     
                     
   
Fiscal Year Ended      
 
   
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
August 27, 2005 
 
Intermediate Holdings
                   
  Federal—
                   
    Current
 
$
                     346
 
$
                     331
 
$
                       40
 
    Deferred
   
                (8,319
 
                  2,883
   
                  1,319
 
  State—
                   
    Current
   
                  1,682
   
                     441
   
                     177
 
    Deferred
   
                   (942
 
                     330
   
                     202
 
   
$
                (7,233
$
                  3,985
 
$
                  1,738
 
                     
                     
   
Fiscal Year Ended      
 
   
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
August 27, 2005 
 
AAC
                   
  Federal—
                   
    Current
 
$
                     343
 
$
                     340
 
$
                       48
 
    Deferred
   
                (4,627
 
                  6,395
   
                  3,903
 
  State—
                   
    Current
   
                  1,672
   
                     441
   
                     177
 
    Deferred
   
                   (510
 
                     731
   
                     489
 
   
$
                (3,122
$
                  7,907
 
$
                  4,617
 
73

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
The provision (benefit) for income taxes differs from the amount that would be computed if the income (loss) before income taxes were multiplied by the federal income tax rate (statutory rate) as follows:
 
 
Fiscal Year Ended      
 
 
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
 August 28, 2005
 
Parent Holdings
                 
Computed tax provision (benefit) at statutory rate
$
           (16,792
$
              1,117
 
 $
                 1,113
 
State taxes, net of federal benefit
 
                (691
 
                 590
   
                    219
 
Non-deductible interest on high yield debt
 
               1,845
   
                 448
   
                    219
 
Other
 
                  211
   
                   61
   
                    187
 
Total income tax provision (benefit)
$
           (15,427
$
              2,216
 
$
                 1,738
 
                   
                   
 
Fiscal Year Ended    
 
 
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
 August 28, 2005
 
Intermediate Holdings
                 
Computed tax provision (benefit) at statutory rate
$
             (7,779
$
              2,897
 
$
                 1,113
 
State taxes, net of federal benefit
 
                  152
   
                 770
   
                    219
 
Non-deductible interest on high yield debt
 
                  278
   
                 251
   
                    219
 
Other
 
                  116
   
                   67
   
                    187
 
Total income tax provision (benefit)
$
             (7,233
$
              3,985
 
$
                 1,738
 
                   
                   
 
Fiscal Year Ended    
 
 
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
August 27, 2005 
 
AAC
                 
Computed tax provision (benefit) at statutory rate
$
             (3,768
$
              6,732
 
$
                 3,910
 
State taxes, net of federal benefit
 
                  577
   
              1,172
   
                    619
 
Other
 
                    69
   
                     3
   
                      88
 
Total income tax provision (benefit)
$
             (3,122
$
              7,907
 
$
                 4,617
 
74

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
Deferred tax assets and liabilities consist of the following:
 
 
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
Parent Holdings
           
Deferred tax assets
           
    Allowances and reserves
$
               2,501
 
$
              1,956
 
    Net operating loss carryforwards
 
             29,314
   
            35,740
 
    Deferred revenue (net of commissions expense)
 
               1,744
   
              1,023
 
    Accrued interest
 
             20,706
   
              8,176
 
    Accrued liabilities and other
 
               2,746
   
              3,958
 
    Prepaids and other
 
               2,802
   
              3,958
 
    Total deferred tax assets
$
             59,813
 
$
            54,811
 
Deferred tax liabilities
           
    Depreciation
 
               8,903
   
            10,640
 
    Amortization of intangibles
 
             55,570
   
            59,795
 
    Prepaids and other
 
               1,345
   
                 596
 
    Total deferred tax liabilities
 
             65,818
   
            71,031
 
Net deferred tax liabilities
$
              (6,005
$
           (16,220
             
Current deferred tax assets
$
               3,731
 
$
              5,582
 
Long-term deferred tax liabilities
 
              (9,736
 
           (25,760
Net deferred tax liabilities
$
              (6,005
$
           (20,178
             
 
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
Intermediate Holdings
           
Deferred tax assets
           
    Allowances and reserves
$
               2,501
 
$
              1,956
 
    Net operating loss carryforwards
 
             29,501
   
            35,619
 
    Deferred revenue (net of commissions expense)
 
               1,744
   
              1,023
 
    Accrued interest
 
             10,726
   
              6,528
 
    Accrued liabilities and other
 
               2,746
   
              3,964
 
    Prepaids and other
 
               2,793
   
              3,964
 
    Total deferred tax assets
$
             50,011
 
$
            53,054
 
Deferred tax liabilities
           
    Depreciation
 
               8,903
   
            10,640
 
    Amortization of intangibles
 
             55,763
   
            59,795
 
    Prepaids and other
 
               1,345
   
                 596
 
    Total deferred tax liabilities
 
             66,011
   
            71,031
 
Net deferred tax liabilities
$
            (16,000
$
           (17,977
             
Current deferred tax assets
$
               3,731
 
$
              5,582
 
Long-term deferred tax liabilities
 
            (19,731
 
           (27,523
Net deferred tax liabilities
$
            (16,000
$
           (21,941
             
 
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
AAC
           
Deferred tax assets
           
    Allowances and reserves
$
               2,501
 
$
              1,956
 
    Net operating loss carryforwards
 
             29,561
   
            35,445
 
    Deferred revenue (net of commissions expense)
 
               1,744
   
              1,023
 
    Accrued liabilities and other
 
               2,746
   
              3,973
 
    Prepaids and other
 
               2,790
   
              3,973
 
    Total deferred tax assets
$
             39,342
 
$
            46,370
 
Deferred tax liabilities
           
    Depreciation
 
               8,903
   
            10,640
 
    Amortization of intangibles
 
             56,002
   
            59,886
 
    Prepaids and other
 
               1,345
   
                 596
 
    Total deferred tax liabilities
 
             66,250
   
            71,122
 
Net deferred tax liabilities
$
            (26,908
$
           (24,752
             
Current deferred tax assets
$
               3,731
 
$
              5,582
 
Long-term deferred tax liabilities
 
            (30,639
 
           (34,307
Net deferred tax liabilities
$
            (26,908
$
           (28,725
75

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
     
     For tax reporting purposes, the Company has a U.S. net operating loss carryforward of approximately $75 million as of August 25, 2007. Utilization of the net operating loss carryforwards is contingent on the Company’s ability to generate income in the future and may be subject to an annual limitation due to the “change in ownership” provisions of the IRC, as amended. The net operating loss carryforwards will expire in various years through 2024 if not previously utilized. The annual limitation may result in the expiration of the net operating losses before utilization.

14. Stockholders’ Equity

     On November 16, 2004, Intermediate Holdings issued $131.5 million aggregate principal amount at maturity of 10.25% senior discount notes due 2012, generating net proceeds of $89.3 million. Intermediate Holdings is the sole obligor of these notes. The net proceeds of this offering were used as a distribution to stockholders through the repurchase of shares of Intermediate Holdings’ common stock from its stockholders.

     On May 8, 2006, the holders of outstanding stock of Intermediate Holdings, agreed to form a new holding company for Intermediate Holdings, and on May 30, 2006, reached agreement for their new company, American Achievement Group Holding Corp. to affect a stock exchange with Intermediate Holdings. Pursuant to that agreement, each holder of Common Stock of Intermediate Holdings contributed each share of such stock then held to the new parent company in exchange for a new share of Common Stock of the new parent company and each holder of Series A Preferred Stock of Intermediate Holdings contributed each share of such stock then held to the new parent company in exchange for a new share of Series A Redeemable Preferred Stock of the new parent company. Each new share of capital stock received in such contribution and exchange had the same rights, preferences and privileges as the corresponding share of stock of Intermediate Holdings that was contributed to the new parent company. As a result of the foregoing recapitalization, Intermediate Holdings became a wholly owned subsidiary of Parent Holdings.
 
15. Related-Party Transactions

     On March 25, 2004 upon consummation of the Merger, AAC entered into a management agreement with an affiliate of Fenway Partners pursuant to which AAC, among other things, agreed to pay such affiliate an annual fee equal to the greater of $3.0 million or 5% of the previous fiscal year’s EBITDA (as defined in the agreement). Amounts paid by the Company under the management agreement totaled $3,665, $3,333 and $3,000 for the years ended August 25, 2007, August 26, 2006 and August 27, 2005, respectively.

     As of August 25, 2007 and August 26, 2006, respectively, the Company had net prepaid management fees of approximately $250 and $160, respectively.
76

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
16. Business Segments

     The Company is a manufacturer and supplier of class rings, yearbooks and other graduation-related scholastic products for the high school and college markets and of recognition products, such as letter jackets, and affinity jewelry designed to commemorate significant events, achievements and affiliations. The Company also operates a division which sells achievement publications in the specialty directory publishing industry nationwide. The Company markets its products and services primarily in the United States and operates in five reporting segments; class rings, yearbooks, graduation products, achievement publications and other.

     The Company’s operating segments, on campus class rings and retail class rings, have been aggregated into one reporting segment, class rings, in accordance with paragraph 26.a. of SFAS 131. The other segment consists primarily of jewelry commemorating family events such as the birth of a child, military and fan affinity jewelry and related products, professional sports championship rings, commercial printing and recognition products such as letter jackets.

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007, the Company began evaluating strategic options for the achievement publications segment due to a financial downturn in this segment. At August 25, 2007, it was management’s expectation that the achievement publications segment will be sold or otherwise disposed of significantly before the end of its previously estimated useful life.  The Company recorded a charge of $22.8 million in fiscal 2007 to adjust the carrying value of the assets in this reporting segment (see Note 7).  Subsequent to the end of fiscal 2007, the Company made a decision to shut down the achievement publications segment (see Note 17).
77

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
 
 
Parent Holdings              
 
   
Class
         
Graduation
   
Achievement
           
   
Rings
   
Yearbooks
   
Products
   
Publications
 
Other
   
Total
 
Year Ended August 25, 2007
                                   
Net sales
$
     120,949
 
$
     115,207
 
$
       44,428
 
$
         5,148
 
$
       30,004
 
$
     315,736
 
Depreciation and amortization
 
       10,176
   
       10,000
   
         1,640
   
         1,348
   
         1,836
 
$
       25,000
 
Segment operating income (loss)
 
         7,758
   
       25,152
   
         6,420
   
     (29,062
 
         1,021
 
$
       11,289
 
Capital expenditures
 
         3,269
   
         5,160
   
         1,107
   
            435
   
            623
 
$
       10,594
 
Non-cash charges:
                                   
   Impairment
 
         4,917
   
                -
   
                -
   
       22,751
   
            345
 
$
       28,013
 
   Loss on operating lease agreement
 
                -
   
            961
   
                -
   
                -
   
                -
 
$
            961
 
As of August 25, 2007
                                   
Goodwill
$
       67,092
 
$
       65,241
 
$
       23,781
 
$
         2,193
 
$
       14,970
 
$
     173,277
 
Segment assets
 
     203,164
   
     167,862
   
       57,643
   
         8,746
   
       38,651
 
$
     476,066
 
                                     
 
Parent Holdings             
 
   
Class
         
Graduation
   
Achievement
           
   
Rings
   
Yearbooks
   
Products
   
Publications
 
Other
   
Total
 
Year Ended August 26, 2006
                                   
Net sales
$
     119,451
 
$
     114,883
 
$
       43,940
 
$
       20,974
 
$
       21,662
 
$
     320,910
 
Depreciation and amortization
 
         8,614
   
         9,904
   
         2,917
   
         2,086
   
         1,574
 
$
       25,095
 
Segment operating income
 
       13,469
   
       23,812
   
         3,324
   
         1,571
   
            347
 
$
       42,523
 
Capital expenditures
 
         3,713
   
         6,072
   
         1,257
   
            758
   
            711
 
$
       12,511
 
As of August 26, 2006
                                   
Goodwill
$
       71,792
 
$
       65,241
 
$
       23,781
 
$
       11,693
 
$
       12,058
 
$
     184,565
 
Segment assets
 
     204,763
   
     173,145
   
       66,828
   
       32,510
   
       34,030
 
$
     511,276
 
                                     
 
Parent Holdings             
 
   
Class
         
Graduation
   
Achievement
           
   
Rings
   
Yearbooks
   
Products
   
Publications
 
Other
   
Total
 
Year Ended August 27, 2005
                                   
Net sales
$
     119,658
 
$
     112,432
 
$
       40,018
 
$
       20,110
 
$
       21,570
 
$
     313,788
 
Depreciation and amortization
 
         8,695
   
       10,269
   
         2,814
   
         1,977
   
         1,526
 
$
       25,281
 
Segment operating income (loss)
 
       10,362
   
       16,613
   
         3,192
   
         4,871
   
          (217
$
       34,821
 
Capital expenditures
 
         3,273
   
         7,585
   
         1,060
   
            198
   
            679
 
$
       12,795
 
As of August 27, 2005
                                   
Goodwill
$
       71,792
 
$
       65,241
 
$
       23,242
 
$
       11,693
 
$
       12,058
 
$
     184,026
 
Segment assets
 
     202,133
   
     174,787
   
       64,714
   
       37,687
   
       33,615
 
$
     512,936
 
78

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
 
 
Intermediate Holdings            
 
   
Class
         
Graduation
   
Achievement
           
   
Rings
   
Yearbooks
   
Products
   
Publications
 
Other
   
Total
 
Year Ended August 25, 2007
                                   
Net sales
$
     120,949
 
$
     115,207
 
$
       44,428
 
$
         5,148
 
$
       30,004
 
$
     315,736
 
Depreciation and amortization
 
       10,176
   
       10,000
   
         1,640
   
         1,348
   
         1,836
 
$
       25,000
 
Segment operating income (loss)
 
         7,758
   
       25,152
   
         6,420
   
     (29,062
 
         1,021
 
$
       11,289
 
Capital expenditures
 
         3,269
   
         5,160
   
         1,107
   
            435
   
            623
 
$
       10,594
 
Non-cash charges:
                                   
   Impairment
 
         4,917
   
                -
   
                -
   
       22,751
   
            345
 
$
       28,013
 
   Loss on operating lease agreement
 
                -
   
            961
   
                -
   
                -
   
                -
 
$
            961
 
As of August 25, 2007
                                   
Goodwill
$
       67,092
 
$
       65,241
 
$
       23,781
 
$
         2,193
 
$
       14,970
 
$
     173,277
 
Segment assets
 
     200,067
   
     165,049
   
       56,641
   
         8,242
   
       38,130
 
$
     468,129
 
                                     
 
Intermediate Holdings            
 
   
Class
         
Graduation
   
Achievement
           
   
Rings
   
Yearbooks
   
Products
   
Publications
 
Other
   
Total
 
Year Ended August 26, 2006
                                   
Net sales
$
     119,451
 
$
     114,883
 
$
       43,940
 
$
       20,974
 
$
       21,662
 
$
     320,910
 
Depreciation and amortization
 
         8,614
   
         9,904
   
         2,917
   
         2,086
   
         1,574
 
$
       25,095
 
Segment operating income
 
       13,469
   
       23,812
   
         3,324
   
         1,571
   
            347
 
$
       42,523
 
Capital expenditures
 
         3,713
   
         6,072
   
         1,257
   
            758
   
            711
 
$
       12,511
 
As of August 26, 2006
                                   
Goodwill
$
       71,792
 
$
       65,241
 
$
       23,781
 
$
       11,693
 
$
       12,058
 
$
     184,565
 
Segment assets
 
     201,056
   
     169,776
   
       65,628
   
       31,906
   
       33,407
 
$
     501,773
 
                                     
 
Intermediate Holdings            
 
   
Class
         
Graduation
   
Achievement
           
   
Rings
   
Yearbooks
   
Products
   
Publications
 
Other
   
Total
 
Year Ended August 27, 2005
                                   
Net sales
$
     119,658
 
$
     112,432
 
$
       40,018
 
$
       20,110
 
$
       21,570
 
$
     313,788
 
Depreciation and amortization
 
         8,695
   
       10,269
   
         2,814
   
         1,977
   
         1,526
 
$
       25,281
 
Segment operating income (loss)
 
       10,362
   
       16,613
   
         3,192
   
         4,871
   
          (217
$
       34,821
 
Capital expenditures
 
         3,273
   
         7,585
   
         1,060
   
            198
   
            679
 
$
       12,795
 
As of August 27, 2005
                                   
Goodwill
$
       71,792
 
$
       65,241
 
$
       23,242
 
$
       11,693
 
$
       12,058
 
$
     184,026
 
Segment assets
 
     202,133
   
     174,787
   
       64,714
   
       37,687
   
       33,615
 
$
     512,936
 
79

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
 
 
AAC               
 
   
Class
         
Graduation
   
Achievement
           
   
Rings
   
Yearbooks
   
Products
   
Publications
 
Other
   
Total
 
Year Ended August 25, 2007
                                   
Net sales
$
     120,949
 
$
     115,207
 
$
       44,428
 
$
         5,148
 
$
       30,004
 
$
     315,736
 
Depreciation and amortization
 
       10,176
   
       10,000
   
         1,640
   
         1,348
   
         1,836
 
$
       25,000
 
Segment operating income (loss)
 
         7,758
   
       25,152
   
         6,420
   
     (29,062
 
         1,021
 
$
       11,289
 
Capital expenditures
 
         3,269
   
         5,160
   
         1,107
   
            435
   
            623
 
$
       10,594
 
Non-cash charges:
                                   
   Impairment
 
         4,917
   
                -
   
                -
   
       22,751
   
            345
 
$
       28,013
 
   Loss on operating lease agreement
 
                -
   
            961
   
                -
   
                -
   
                -
 
$
            961
 
As of August 25, 2007
                                   
Goodwill
$
       67,092
 
$
       65,241
 
$
       23,781
 
$
         2,193
 
$
       14,970
 
$
     173,277
 
Segment assets
 
     198,971
   
     164,052
   
       56,286
   
         8,064
   
       37,946
 
$
     465,319
 
                                     
 
AAC               
 
   
Class
         
Graduation
   
Achievement
           
   
Rings
   
Yearbooks
   
Products
   
Publications
 
Other
   
Total
 
Year Ended August 26, 2006
                                   
Net sales
$
     119,451
 
$
     114,883
 
$
       43,940
 
$
       20,974
 
$
       21,662
 
$
     320,910
 
Depreciation and amortization
 
         8,614
   
         9,904
   
         2,917
   
         2,086
   
         1,574
 
$
       25,095
 
Segment operating income
 
       13,469
   
       23,812
   
         3,324
   
         1,571
   
            347
 
$
       42,523
 
Capital expenditures
 
         3,713
   
         6,072
   
         1,257
   
            758
   
            711
 
$
       12,511
 
As of August 26, 2006
                                   
Goodwill
$
       71,792
 
$
       65,241
 
$
       23,781
 
$
       11,693
 
$
       12,058
 
$
     184,565
 
Segment assets
 
     199,795
   
     168,631
   
       65,220
   
       31,700
   
       33,196
 
$
     498,542
 
                                     
 
AAC               
 
   
Class
         
Graduation
   
Achievement
           
   
Rings
   
Yearbooks
   
Products
   
Publications
 
Other
   
Total
 
Year Ended August 27, 2005
                                   
Net sales
$
     119,658
 
$
     112,432
 
$
       40,018
 
$
       20,110
 
$
       21,570
 
$
     313,788
 
Depreciation and amortization
 
         8,695
   
       10,269
   
         2,814
   
         1,977
   
         1,526
 
$
       25,281
 
Segment operating income (loss)
 
       10,362
   
       16,613
   
         3,192
   
         4,871
   
          (217
$
       34,821
 
Capital expenditures
 
         3,273
   
         7,585
   
         1,060
   
            198
   
            679
 
$
       12,795
 
As of August 27, 2005
                                   
Goodwill
$
       71,792
 
$
       65,241
 
$
       23,242
 
$
       11,693
 
$
       12,058
 
$
     184,026
 
Segment assets
 
     200,813
   
     173,587
   
       64,287
   
       37,472
   
       33,393
 
$
     509,552
 

80

      AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise stated)
 
17. Subsequent Events
 
     On October 26, 2007, the Company announced a planned shutdown of the achievement publication business. The Company anticipates that substantially all activities in connection with the proposed shutdown will be completed on or about November 30, 2007.  Total cash costs expected to be incurred in connection with the shutdown are estimated to be approximately $0.5-$1.0 million pre-tax.  These costs primarily include contract termination costs, committed scholarships and employee severance costs.  The Company is expected to take an additional non-cash charge, related to the write–off of remaining tangible and intangible assets, in connection with the shutdown of approximately $5.0-$6.0 million pre-tax.

81

     
None.

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures

     As of the date of this report, we carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our President and Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-15 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) as of the end of the year. The evaluation was conducted based on the framework established by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control — Integrated Framework. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that these disclosure controls and procedures are effective in enabling us to record, process, summarize and report information required to be included in the Company’s periodic SEC filings within the required time period, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. 

     Additionally, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer determined, as of the date of this report, that during our most recent fiscal quarter, there was no change in our internal control over financial reporting that has materially affected, or is likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

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Item 10. Director, Executive Officers of the Registrants  and Corporate Governance
     
The following table sets forth information about our boards of directors and executive officers as of August 25, 2007 ( unless stated otherwise, all officers and directors hold their respective position in Parent Holdings, Intermediate Holdings, AAC Holding Corp. and AAC):
 
Name
 
Age
 
Position
Donald J. Percenti
 
51
 
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
Kris G. Radhakrishnan
 
46
 
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
Sherice P. Bench
 
48
 
Executive Vice President and Secretary
Theresa Ann Broome
 
55
 
Vice President of Human Resources, AAC
Matthew Gase
 
48
 
General Manager—CBI
Norman C. Smith
 
58
 
Vice President of Information Technology—AAC
Peter Lamm
 
56
 
Director
Mac LaFollette
 
43
 
Director
W. Gregg Smart
 
47
 
Director
Jean Ann McKenzie
 
48
 
Director
Myles Kleeger
 
32
 
Director
Alan J. Bowers
 
52
 
Director
          
 Donald J. Percenti became President and Chief Executive Officer and a member of the board of directors of AAC in September 2005. Prior to becoming President and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Percenti served as Senior Vice President—On Campus and General Manager—Printing since 1996. From 1991 to 1996, he was Vice President—Sales and Marketing of L.G. Balfour Company, the prior owner of Balfour. From 1977 to 1991, Mr. Percenti was employed by Balfour in various capacities. Mr. Percenti is a member of the Company’s boards of directors.

Kris G. Radhakrishnan became Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer in April 2007. From September 2004 to March 2006 Mr. Radhakrishnan served as the Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Resolution Specialty Materials, a global specialty chemical company. From July 2002 to September 2004, Mr. Radhakrishnan served as the Vice President and Controller of Celanese Chemicals and from August 2001 to July 2002, he served as Director of Finance at Celanese Chemicals. Mr. Radhakrishnan received an M.B.A. from Northern Illinois University and a Bachelor of Commerce (accounting) from University of Madras, India.
          
Sherice P. Bench became Executive Vice President in April 2007 and has been our Secretary since July 2000.  Prior to becoming our Executive Vice President, Ms. Bench was our Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer from July 2000 to April 2007. From 1996 to July 2000, Ms. Bench was our Vice President and Controller. From 1989 to 1996, Ms. Bench was Vice President Finance and Controller for CJC Holdings Inc., the prior owner of ArtCarved. Prior to that time, Ms. Bench was employed as an audit manager with Arthur Andersen LLP. Ms. Bench is a Certified Public Accountant and she received a B.B.A. in Accounting from Texas Tech University.

Theresa Ann Broome has been Vice President—Human Resources since April, 2006.  Prior to that she led her own Human Resources consulting practice and served as Group Vice President—Human Resources and Director—Compensation and Benefits, for Coca Cola Enterprises.  She also held several executive operational and human resources roles in the U. S. Postal Service, including General Manager for operations in the state of Mississippi.  She holds an M.B.A from Louisiana State University, a B.S. from the University of Southern Mississippi and has completed Executive Masters Programs at the University of Virginia and Duke University.
          
Matthew Gase has been General Manager—CBI since February 2006. From 1997 to 2006, Mr. Gase served in numerous senior executive capacities at ConAgra Foods, Inc., where he was most recently Vice President—International Strategic Development. From 1982 to 1997, Mr. Gase held a variety of general management roles at Nestle Purina Company. Mr. Gase received an M.B.A. from Loyola Marymount University and a Bachelor of General Studies from the University of Michigan.
          
Norman C. Smith has been Vice President of Information Technology since 1999. Throughout his 37 year career, Mr. Smith has held IT positions at various manufacturing and distribution companies. Prior to joining AAC, Mr. Smith served as IT Director from 1980 to 1999 for Reliant Building Products, Croft Metals and Siemens Energy & Automation. Mr. Smith attended Louisiana State University and Midwestern State University, where he majored in Business. In August 2007, we provided a one-year notice to Mr. Smith that we do not intend to renew his employment contract upon its termination in August 2008.
          
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Peter Lamm joined AAC’s board of directors in March 2004 and has served as a director of Intermediate Holdings and Parent Holdings since their inception. He is currently a member of the AAC Compensation Committee. Mr. Lamm is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Fenway Partners. Mr. Lamm founded Fenway Partners in 1994. He was previously a General Partner of the investment partnerships managed by Butler Capital Corporation (“BCC”) and a Managing Director of BCC. Prior to joining Butler Capital in 1982, Mr. Lamm was involved in launching Photoquick of America, Inc., a family business. Mr. Lamm received an M.B.A. from Columbia University School of Business and a B.A. in English Literature from Boston University.
          
Mac LaFollette joined AAC’s board of directors in March 2004 and has served as a director of Intermediate Holdings and Parent Holdings since their inception. He is currently a member of the Audit Committee and AAC Compensation Committee. Mr. LaFollette is a Managing Director of Fenway Partners. Prior to joining Fenway Partners in 2000, Mr. LaFollette was a Director in the Leveraged Finance group at Credit Suisse First Boston. At First Boston, he identified leveraged buyout transactions for financial sponsors and financed LBOs in the bank market and high yield markets. Prior to joining First Boston, he worked in the Latin America Investment Banking Group at UBS. Mr. LaFollette received an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School and a Bachelor of Arts from Harvard College.
          
W. Gregg Smart joined AAC’s board of directors in March 2004 and has served as a director of Intermediate Holdings and Parent Holdings since their inception. He is currently a member of the Audit Committee and AAC Compensation Committee. Mr. Smart is a Senior Managing Director and the Chief Operating Officer of Fenway Partners. Prior to joining Fenway Partners in July 1999, Mr. Smart spent 13 years at Merrill Lynch & Co. where he was most recently a Managing Director in the Financial Sponsors Group. Prior to joining Merrill Lynch & Co., Mr. Smart was with First Union National Bank. Mr. Smart received an M.B.A. from the Wharton School and a B.A. in Economics from Davidson College.
          
Jean Ann McKenzie joined AAC’s board of directors in May 2006. In August 2006, Ms. McKenzie joined Intermediate Holdings’ and Parent Holdings’ boards of directors. Ms. McKenzie most recently served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Gateway Learning Corporation (Hooked on Phonics) from 1999 through 2005. Prior to joining Gateway Learning Corporation, Ms. McKenzie spent nine years in various marketing and senior management roles at Mattel, Inc., culminating in the position of Executive Vice President and General Manager—Worldwide Barbie. Prior to joining Mattel, Inc., Ms. McKenzie was with Applause, Inc. and Hallmark Cards, Inc. Ms. McKenzie received a B.S. in Marketing from the University of Missouri.
          
Myles Kleeger joined AAC’s board of directors in June 2006. In August 2006, Mr. Kleeger joined Intermediate Holdings’ and Parent Holdings’ boards of directors. Mr. Kleeger is a Managing Director at the Kaplan Thaler Group (KTG) and heads the marketing unit, KTG Buzz. Before joining KTG, Mr. Kleeger most recently served as the Senior VP and General Manager of Alloy Marketing & Promotions (AMP Agency), a full-service marketing agency specializing in experiential and digital marketing solutions for clients targeting the youth market. Prior to becoming the General Manager of AMP, Mr. Kleeger served as VP of AMP Design, the web design and technology services division of the agency. Mr. Kleeger began his career at Alloy in a sales role and also held multiple sales and marketing positions at Parade Publications prior to joining Alloy in 1999. Mr. Kleeger received his undergraduate degree from Duke University and his M.B.A. in Finance from the NYU Stern School of Business.
          
Alan J. Bowers joined the Company’s boards of directors in August 2006. Mr. Bowers was also appointed to chair the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors. Mr. Bowers most recently served as President, Chief Executive Officer and Board Member of Cape Success, LLC, a consolidated group of service businesses, from 2001 through 2004. Mr. Bowers previously served as President, Chief Executive Officer and Board Member of Marketsource Corporation, a multi-divisional service firm, from 2000 through 2001 and MBL Life Assurance Corporation, successor to Mutual Benefit Life, from 1995 to 1999. Prior to joining MBL Life Assurance Corporation, Mr. Bowers was with Coopers & Lybrand, LLP, predecessor to PricewaterhouseCoopers, from 1978 to 1995. He became a partner in 1986, working in the Firm’s audit practice and ultimately becoming an area managing partner. Mr. Bowers received an M.B.A. in Finance and Economics from St. John’s University and a B.S. in Accounting from Montclair State University.

84

Board Committees
     
     Our board of directors directs the management of our business and affairs as provided by Delaware law and conducts its business through meetings of the full board of directors and two standing committees: the audit committee and the compensation committee. In addition, from time to time, other committees may be established under the direction of the board of directors when necessary to address specific issues.

     The duties and responsibilities of the audit committee include recommending to the board of directors the appointment or termination of the engagement of our independent public accountants, otherwise overseeing the independent registered public accounting firm relationship, reviewing our significant accounting policies and internal controls and reporting its recommendations and findings to the full board of directors. Mr. Alan Bowers chairs the audit committee and has been designated by the board of directors as the audit committee financial expert within the meaning of SEC regulations. The compensation committee reviews and approves the compensation of our chief executive officer and administers any cash or equity incentive plan approved by our board of directors.

Code of Ethics
 
Parent Holdings, Intermediate Holdings and AAC collectively adopted a Code of Ethics & Business Conduct and an Anti-Fraud Policy, on September 5, 2007, which applies to all members of management, our executive officers and our board of directors.  These policies further extend and reinforce the ethical values of the Company communicated through our Code of Conduct distributed to all employees upon hire.
 
We plan to review our Code of Ethics & Business Conduct and our Anti-fraud Policy annually and amend it, as necessary, to be in compliance with the current laws.  We require senior management employees and employees with a significant role in internal control over financial reporting to confirm compliance with the Code and Policy on an annual basis.  Copies of the Code of Ethics & Business Conduct and Anti-Fraud Policy are available to any person, upon request and free of charge.
 
85

Item 11. Executive Compensation

Compensation Discussion and Analysis

Philosophy

Our compensation programs recognize our employees are responsible for our Company’s growth, achievements and success.  We seek to attract and retain business leaders that, knowing that we are marking the most significant milestones in the lives of our customer, have an unwavering commitment to the high quality of the products we make and the services we provide, while fostering innovation in the market place.  Our programs support our drive for excellence in all that we say and do by setting high performance standards with supporting accountability and responsibility.  We have a philosophy that values teamwork and the results achieved by working together, communicating effectively and supporting common goals.

It is our policy to provide rates of pay which are competitive with the average rates paid elsewhere in the area for similar work and which reflect fairly the difference between jobs in the Company.  Individual performance is evaluated annually and considered in compensation decisions.  We recognize individual ability and performance as the soundest and most equitable basis for individual salary adjustments and promotion within the Company.  In addition, annual results-based incentives are rewarded to executives for maximizing EBITDA and revenue obtainment.  Our compensation program recognizes individual performance must go hand-in-hand with the achievement of Company goals in order to create a meaningful structure to maximize results and add value to the Company.

Role of the Compensation Committee

Our Compensation Committee consists of Peter Lamm, W. Gregg Smart and Mac LaFollette.  The Compensation Committee generally meets annually to formally approve annual incentive plans for the next year.  In addition, more frequent meetings may be held periodically as necessary to timely address the strategic direction of the compensation program.  Executive awards under the prior year’s plan are reviewed and approved subsequent to receipt of audited financial data, generally during the first quarter of each fiscal year.

The Compensation Committee reviews and considers annual increases, bonus opportunities and cash incentive awards for key executives.  As part of this review, the history of all the elements of each executive’s total compensation are evaluated, including and not limited to a comparison of the compensation of other similarly situated executive officers based on general knowledge of market pay, an assessment of personal achievement and business performance. Typically, our Chief Executive Officer, currently Mr. Percenti, makes compensation recommendations to the Compensation Committee with respect to the executive officers who report to him, including the Chief Financial Officer.  Mr. Percenti bases his recommendations on the impact of the position, skill level and experience of the individual.  Such executive officers are not present at the time of these deliberations. The Compensation Committee has the authority to accept or adjust any such recommendations. The Chairman of the Compensation Committee then makes compensation recommendations to the Compensation Committee with respect to the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer. Neither Mr. Percenti nor Mr. Radhakrishnan is present at the meeting when their compensation is discussed by the committee.  The Compensation Committee currently does not utilize an outside consultant.

Market Benchmarking and Positioning

We do not perform formal benchmarking to determine total compensation or any material element of compensation for our executives.

Overview of Elements of Executive Compensation

Elements of compensation for our executives include: base salary, annual bonus, cash incentive awards and other benefits.  We choose to pay each element of compensation in order to attract and retain the necessary executive talent, reward annual performance and provide incentive for their balanced focus on long-term strategic goals as well as short-term performance.  Listed below is a description of each element of compensation:

Base Salary
Base Salary is a necessary element of compensation in order to attract and retain key talent.  Base Salary is the fixed component of the executive compensation structure that recognizes the prevailing market rate of pay for level of responsibility and availability of key skills and experience required to drive superior performance.  Base Salary is also the basis for establishing the target payouts of the bonus programs described below.

86

Annual Bonus
The objective of the bonus plan is to motivate top operating management to maximize results each year.  In doing so, EBITDA and revenue generation is the fundamental objective of the Company and therefore, is the basic driver of a substantial portion of management bonus dollars available.  Individual performance of senior executives also plays a major role in driving the Company forward and merits a significant bonus opportunity.  In any given year, quantitative results alone may not adequately define how well an individual may have performed and thus, a discretionary component must be present.

The bonus plan goals are:
·  
To provide a significant incentive for achieving EBITDA Objective;
·  
To provide additional incentive to exceed EBITDA Objective;
·  
To provide incentive to continue to maximize EBITDA achievement in the face of significant adverse events; and,
·  
To blend individual performance initiative with EBITDA attainment.

Bonus opportunity for the executive officers is expressed as a percentage of qualifying base salary, with an established Basic Plan percentage for payout based on meeting certain targets or to reward individual extraordinary performance or contribution and enhanced Supplemental Plan if certain targets above the established EBITDA goal are met.  The components of the Basic Bonus Plan include EBITDA, Revenue, Performance Objectives and Discretion, as described below:

1)  
EBITDA component is awarded based on performance against the approved EBITDA Objective for that fiscal year.
2)  
Revenue component, if applicable, is awarded based on the net revenue achieved by the Company compared to the approved revenue objective for that fiscal year.
3)  
Performance Objective component is determined by individual participant performance versus quantifiable objectives unique to the functional responsibility of the participant.  There are 3 to 5 objectives per participant.  Each objective is weighted to determine what portion, if any, of the base salary bonus is possible to be earned though this component.  Individual performance objectives recognize the achievement of specified targets or projects that move the Company forward, or contribute to exceeding the EBITDA goal.
4)  
Discretionary component is based on the recommendation of the Chief Executive Officer to the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors on each individual participant as to how well he/she performed and the extent to which the individual contributed to the Company’s result.  It is intended to recognize factors such as contributions above and beyond expectations, perseverance in the face of adverse conditions and to recognize windfalls where results exceeded expectations.

The chart below summarizes the Basic and Supplemental Plan formulas for the 2007 fiscal year for the following named executives.

Named Executive
Basic Plan
Supplemental Plan
(performance over 100% of EBITDA Objective)
Kris G. Radhakrishnan, Chief Financial Officer
35% Company EBITDA
15% Performance Objective
10% Discretion
60% Total Basic Bonus
 
Determined by EBITDA, up to 75% of Base Salary  for maximum total of Basic and Supplemental Plans
Sherice P. Bench, Executive Vice President
35% Company EBITDA
15% Performance Objective
10% Discretion
60% Total Basic Bonus
 
Determined by EBITDA, up to 75% of Base Salary  for maximum total of Basic and Supplemental Plans
 
Matthew Gase,
General Manager - CBI
15% Company EBITDA
15% Division EBITDA
10% Revenue Goal
10% Performance Objective
10% Discretion
60% Total Basic Bonus
 
Determined by EBITDA, up to 75% of Base Salary for maximum total of Basic and Supplemental Plans
 
 
Theresa Ann Broome, Vice of President Human Resources, AAC
35% Company EBITDA
15% Performance Objective
10% Discretion
60% Total Basic Bonus
 
Determined by EBITDA, up to 75% of Base Salary for maximum total of Basic and Supplemental Plans
 

87

The Board of Directors in its sole discretion determined targets or standards (e.g. EBITDA, sales) for bonus payment of the Chief Executive Officer.  For fiscal year 2007, the bonus payable to Mr. Percenti was determined as follows:

Named Executive
Bonus Plan
Supplemental Plan (performance over 100% of EBITDA Objective)
Donald J. Percenti, President and Chief Executive Officer
40% Company EBITDA
25% Budgeted Sales
10% Budgeted Debt Pay Down
75% Total Bonus
 
Not Applicable

               Cash Incentive Awards

Certain members of senior management of the Company and specified members of the Board of Directors are eligible to participate in the American Achievement Corporation Executive Cash Incentive Plan (the “CIP”).  Payment from the CIP occurs upon the occurrence of a qualified liquidity event, e.g. change of control of the company.  The CIP is intended to reward an ownership mentality in its members.

Participants in the CIP earn the right to receive payment depending on the number of “units” held by that participant.  Units are typically granted by the Compensation Committee to key employees on hire.  Units may also be granted on a discretionary basis to recognize exceptional performance.  The Compensation Committee determines the number of units to grant based on the estimated value of those units if a future benefit payment were to be awarded.  The number granted represents what would be determined equitable to reward that individual.  The Compensation Committee also considers suggestions from the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Vice President of Human Resources, if appropriate, regarding the number of units to be granted to a participant.  The maximum number of units available to all plan participants is 150,000.  

Units may either be awarded to the employee as Liquidity Event Units, which vest automatically upon occurrence of a qualified liquidity event or as Time-Based Units, which are vested over time.  Participants become vested in the Time-Based Units ratably over a 5-year period with one-fifth vesting on each subsequent anniversary of the unit grant date.  The vesting of all or any portion of the participants’ units may be accelerated, at any time in the sole discretion of the Board of Directors.  Following a qualified liquidity event, a percentage of the participants’ available vested units over the maximum number of units available determines their right to receive from 5% to 15% (based on the net proceeds) of the net proceeds available to the CIP.  The net proceeds available to the CIP are determined by the amount paid for the company after certain debt and equity interests (including dividends previously received) of the owners have been realized. At August 25, 2007 there were 109,483 units outstanding under the CIP.

Although no payment has been made from the CIP during the last three years, certain executive officers were awarded a one-time senior management bonus in fiscal 2005 that were based partly on the expected future value of the CIP benefit.  In the event of a qualified liquidity event, payments from the CIP will be reduced by the amount of the bonus.

Certain members of senior management of the Company are also eligible to participate in the American Achievement Corporation Supplemental Incentive Plan (the “SIP”).  Payment from the SIP occurs upon the occurrence of a qualified liquidity event, e.g. change of control of the company.  The SIP was designed to provide a one-time incentive award to key senior management employees.

Participants in the SIP earn the right to receive payment depending on the number of “units” held by that participant.  Units are granted on a discretionary basis to recognize exceptional performance.  The Compensation Committee determines the number of units to grant based on the estimated value of those units if a future benefit payment were to be awarded.  The number granted represents what would be determined equitable to reward that individual.  The Compensation Committee also considers suggestions from the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Vice President of Human Resources, if appropriate, regarding the number of units to be granted to a participant.  The maximum number of units available to all plan participants is 1,000.

Units will vest automatically upon occurrence of a qualified liquidity event during the term of the participant’s employment with the Company.  Following a qualified liquidity event, a percentage of the participants’ available vested units over the maximum number of units available determines their right to receive a portion of the net proceeds available to the SIP.  The net proceeds available to the SIP are determined by the amount paid for the company after certain debt and equity interests (including dividends previously received) of the owners have been realized and payments pursuant to the CIP have been made. At August 25, 2007 there were 428 units outstanding under the SIP.

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               Other Benefits

Our executive officers participate in the same group medical, life, disability insurance and employee benefit plans as our other salaried employees under the same terms and conditions.  We also offer participation in our defined contribution 401(k) plan with a company match on terms consistent with other eligible employees.  Mr. Percenti is provided with a car allowance.
 
Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation
 
No interlocking relationship exists between the members of AAC’s Board of Directors or the Compensation Committee and the board of directors or compensation committee of any other company, nor has any such interlocking relationship existed in the past.
 
Compensation Committee Report
 
The Compensation Committee has reviewed and discussed with management the Compensation Discussion and Analysis provided above.  Based on its review and discussions, the Compensation Committee recommended to the Board of Directors that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in this annual report.
 
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Summary Compensation Table
 
 
The following table provides information concerning all plan and non-plan compensation awarded to, earned by, or paid to our “named executive officers” for each of our last three completed fiscal years.  Named executive officers consist of individuals serving as our principal executive officer, our principal financial officer and three additional executive officers who were the most highly compensated for the year ended August 25, 2007.
 
Name and Principal Position
 
Year
 
Salary ($)
   
Bonus ($)
   
Non- Equity Incentive Plan Compensation ($) (1)
 
All Other Compensation ($)
 
Total ($)
                                 
Donald J. Percenti
 
2007
 
 396,154
   
      -
   
40,000
 (7)
 
 9,000
    (8)
 
                    445,154
President and Chief
 
2006
 
      325,500
   
               -
   
             37,000
   
                9,000
    (8)
 
       371,500
Executive Officer
 
2005
 
      258,000
   
       350,000
  (6)
 
           139,400
   
                3,000
    (8)
 
       750,400
                                 
David G. Fiore (2)
 
2007
 
                -
   
                -
   
                     -
   
                     -
   
                -
   
2006
 
        67,846
   
                -
   
                     -
   
            463,250
    (9)
 
       531,096
   
2005
 
       432,308
   
       700,000
  (6)
 
           200,000
   
                9,000
   
    1,341,308
                                 
Kris G. Radhakrishnan(3)
 
2007
 
      105,769
   
                -
   
             15,865
   
                     -
   
       121,634
Chief Financial
 
2006
 
                -
   
                -
   
                     -
   
                     -
   
                -
Officer
 
2005
 
                -
 
 
                -
   
                     -
   
                     -
   
                -
                                 
Sherice P. Bench(3)
 
2007
 
       246,271
   
               -
   
             12,360
 (7)
 
                    -
   
       258,631
Executive Vice President
 
2006
 
       239,987
   
               -
   
             36,624
   
                     -
   
       276,611
   
2005
 
      224,588
   
       325,000
  (6)
 
             82,000
   
                     -
   
       631,588
                                 
Matthew Gase(4)
 
2007
 
      245,769
   
               -
   
                    -
   
              102,802
  (10)
 
       348,571
General Manager - CBI
 
2006
 
      138,461
   
                -
   
            67,200
   
              34,446
  (10)
 
       240,107
   
2005
 
               -
   
                -
   
                    -
   
                     -
   
                -
                                 
Theresa Ann Broome (5)
 
2007
 
      173,769
   
                -
   
            26,265
 (7)
 
              79,210
  (10)
 
      279,244
Vice President – Human
 
2006
 
         55,577
   
                -
   
             10,767
   
              9,810
  (10)
 
         76,154
 Resources, AAC
 
2005
 
               -
   
                -
   
                     -
   
                    -
   
               -
                                 
(1)     Amounts represent total earned under the annual bonus plan during the fiscal years presented.  These amounts are generally paid during the second quarter of the following fiscal year.
(2)     Mr. Fiore served as our President and Chief Executive Officer until September 2005, at which time Mr. Percenti became our President and Chief Executive Officer.
(3)     Mr. Radhakrishnan began employment as our Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer in April 2007 at which time Ms. Bench transitioned from Chief Financial Officer to Executive Vice President and Secretary.
(4)     Mr. Gase began employment as General Manager – CBI in February 2006.
           
(5)     Ms. Broome began employment as Vice President – Human Resources, AAC in April 2006.
     
(6)   One-time senior management bonuses paid in fiscal 2005 were based partly on the expected future value of the CIP benefit.  In the event of a qualified liquidity event, payments from the CIP will be reduced by the amount of the special bonus.
(7)   Fiscal year 2007 compensation under the annual bonus plan will be paid in the form of CIP units as elected by the named executive officer.
(8)   All Other Compensation for Mr. Percenti consists of a car allowance paid monthly.
           
(9)   All Other Compensation for Mr. Fiore includes $450,000 in termination payments.
           
(10)   All Other Compensation for Mr. Gase and Ms. Broome consists of relocation allowances.
     

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Grants of Plan-based Awards Table
 
The following table provides information concerning each grant of an award made to our named executive officers during the last completed fiscal year:
 
Name
 
Grant Date
 
Estimated Possible Payouts Under Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards (1) 
 
All Other Stock Awards: Number of Shares of Stock or Units (2)
 
       
Threshold ($)
Target ($)
Maximum ($)
       
                     
Donald J. Percenti
 
August 27, 2007
 
      --
 300,000
 $                             300,000
       
   
September 1, 2006
         
                1,600
  (3)
 
   
November 15, 2006
         
                   913
   
                     
Kris G. Radhakrishnan
 
August 27, 2007
 
      --
      63,462
      79,327
       
   
April 16, 2007
         
                6,000
  (4)
 
                     
Sherice P. Bench
 
August 27, 2007
 
      --
  148,320
     185,400
       
   
November 15, 2006
         
                   308
  (5)
 
                     
Matthew Gase
 
August 27, 2007
 
      --
 150,000
      187,500
   
  (6)
 
                     
Theresa Ann Broome
 
August 27, 2007
 
      --
  108,000
     135,000
       
   
September 21, 2006
         
                2,000
  (7)
 
                     
(1)  Amounts represent estimated possible payouts under the annual bonus plan.
       
(2)  Amounts represent units granted under the CIP.  As the payment under the CIP is contingent on occurrence of a liquidity event which is not assessed to be probable, and the amount payable under the plan is not reasonably estimable as of the date of the financial statements, no expense has been recognized for units granted under the plan.
(3)  CIP units granted on September 1, 2006 consist of 800 Liquidity Event Units and 800 Time-Based Units.  CIP units granted on November 15, 2006 consist of 913 Time-Based Units.  At  August 25, 2007, Mr. Percenti holds a total of 21,310 CIP units consisting of 9,960 Liquidity Event Units and 11,350 Time-Based Units.  Mr. Percenti also holds 203 units awarded under the SIP.
(4)  CIP units granted on April 16, 2007 consist of 3,000 Liquidity Event Units and 3,000 Time-Based Units.  At  August 25, 2007, Mr. Radhakrishnan holds a total of 6,000 CIP units consisting of 3,000 Liquidity Event Units and 3,000 Time-Based Units.
(5)  CIP units granted on November 15, 2006 consist of 308 Time-Based Units.  At  August 25, 2007, Ms. Bench holds a total of 13,875 CIP units consisting of 6,584 Liquidity Event Units and 7,291 Time-Based Units. Ms. Bench also holds 150 units awarded under the SIP.
(6)  At  August 25, 2007, Mr. Gase holds a total of 7,400 CIP units consisting of 3,500 Liquidity Event Units and 3,900 Time-Based Units.
(7)  CIP units granted on September 21, 2006 consist of 1,000 Liquidity Event Units and 1,000 Time-Based Units.  At  August 25, 2007, Ms. Broome holds a total of 2,000 CIP units consisting of 1,000 Liquidity Event Units and 1,000 Time-Based Units.
                     

91

Employment Agreements
 
Donald J. Percenti. Mr. Percenti has an employment agreement with AAC, pursuant to which he serves as our Chief Executive Officer. The initial term of his employment agreement is for two years from August 10, 2005, and is automatically extended for additional one year terms on August 10th of each succeeding year thereafter unless earlier terminated by us upon not less than 60 days’ prior notice. In accordance with the employment agreement, Mr. Percenti is currently paid an annual salary of $400,000. Under his employment agreement, Mr. Percenti’s salary is subject to such changes as our board of directors may determine from time to time.
 
Mr. Percenti’s employment agreement provides for an annual bonus in an amount up to 75% of Mr. Percenti’s salary based upon the achievement of certain targets or standards as are determined by our board of directors. Mr. Percenti’s employment agreement also provides that he participates in our employee benefit plans (including incentive bonus plans and incentive stock plans) as we maintain and as may be established for our employees from time-to-time on the same basis as other executive employees are entitled to participate. In addition, we pay Mr. Percenti a car allowance of up to $750 a month.
 
Mr. Percenti’s employment agreement provides that in the event his employment is terminated without “cause” or for “good reason” (each as defined in his employment agreement), he will be entitled to receive bi-weekly payments equal to the average of his bi-weekly compensation in effect within the two years preceding the termination for a period of the greater of 18 months or the remaining term of his employment agreement. He will also be entitled to elect the continuation of health benefits at no cost to himself for up to 18 months. Other than payments under the CIP, Mr. Percenti’s employment agreement does not provide him with any payments that are contingent upon a “change in control.”

Kris G. Radhakrishnan. Mr. Radhakrishnan entered into an employment agreement with CBI effective April 16, 2007, pursuant to which he serves as our Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer. The initial term of his employment agreement is for one year from April 16, 2007, and is automatically extended for additional one year terms on April 16th of each succeeding year thereafter unless earlier terminated by us upon not less than two months’ prior notice. In accordance with the employment agreement, Mr. Radhakrishnan is currently paid an annual salary of $275,000. Under his employment agreement, Mr. Radhakrishnan’s salary is subject to such changes as our board of directors may determine from time to time.

Mr. Radhakrishnan’s employment agreement provides that he participates in our employee benefit plans (including incentive bonus plans and incentive stock plans) as we maintain and as may be established for our employees from time to time on the same basis as other executive employees are entitled to participate.
 
Mr. Radhakrishnan’s employment agreement provides that in the event his employment is terminated without “cause” or for “good reason” (each as defined in his employment agreement), he will be entitled to receive 26 bi-weekly payments equal to the average of his bi-weekly compensation in effect within the two years preceding the termination. He will also be entitled to elect the continuation of health benefits at no cost to himself for a period of up to 12 months. Other than payments under the CIP, Mr. Radhakrishnan’s employment agreement does not provide him with any payments that are contingent upon a “change in control.”
 
Sherice P. Bench. Ms. Bench has an amended employment agreement with CBI effective as of December 16, 1996, pursuant to which she serves as our Executive Vice President. The initial term of her employment agreement was for two years, and is automatically extended for additional one year terms on December 15th of each succeeding year thereafter unless earlier terminated by us upon not less than 60 days’ prior notice. In accordance with the employment agreement, Ms. Bench is currently paid an annual salary of $247,200 and she is entitled to participate in such employee benefit programs, plans and policies (including incentive bonus plans and incentive stock option plans) as we maintain and as may be established for our employees from time-to-time on the same basis as other executive employees are entitled to participate.
 
Ms. Bench’s amended employment agreement provides that in the event her employment is terminated without “substantial cause” (as defined in her employment agreement), she will be entitled to receive 39 bi-weekly severance payments equal to the average of her bi-weekly compensation in effect within the two years preceding her termination. She will also be entitled to elect the continuation of health benefits at no cost to herself for a period of up to 18 months. Other than payments under the CIP, Ms. Bench’s employment agreement does not provide her with any payments that are contingent upon a “change in control.”
 
Matthew Gase. Mr. Gase has an employment agreement with CBI, effective February 1, 2006, pursuant to which he serves as the General Manager of CBI. The term of his employment agreement is for one year, with automatic renewals for successive one-year terms unless otherwise terminated upon two months’ notice. In accordance with the employment agreement, Mr. Gase is currently paid an annual base salary of $250,000 and he is entitled to participate in such employee programs, plans and policies (including incentive bonus plans and incentive stock option plans) as we maintain and as may be established for our employees from time-to-time on the same basis as other executive employees are entitled to participate.
 
Mr. Gase’s employment agreement provides that in the event his employment is terminated without “cause” or for “good reason” (each as defined in his employment agreement), he will be entitled to receive 26 bi-weekly payments equal to the average of his bi-weekly base salary in effect within the two years preceding his termination.  He will also be entitled to elect the continuation of health benefits at no cost to himself for a period of up to 12 months. Other than payments under the CIP, Mr. Gase’s employment agreement does not provide him with any payments that are contingent upon a “change in control.”
 
92

Theresa Ann Broome. Ms. Broome has an employment agreement with CBI, effective April 18, 2006, pursuant to which she serves as our Vice President Human Resources. The term of her employment agreement is for one year, with automatic renewals for successive one-year terms unless otherwise terminated upon two months’ notice. In accordance with the employment agreement, Ms. Broome is currently paid an annual base salary of $180,000 and she is entitled to participate in such employee programs, plans and policies (including incentive bonus plans and incentive stock option plans) as we maintain and as may be established for our employees from time-to-time on the same basis as other executive employees are entitled to participate.
 
Ms. Broome’s employment agreement provides that in the event her employment is terminated without “cause” or for “good reason” (each as defined in her employment agreement), she will be entitled to receive 26 bi-weekly payments equal to the average of her bi-weekly base salary in effect within the two years preceding her termination. She will also be entitled to elect the continuation of health benefits at no cost to herself for a period of up to 12 months. Other than payments under the CIP, Ms. Broome’s employment agreement does not provide her with any payments that are contingent upon a “change in control.”
 
Potential Payments upon Termination or Change in Control
 
The following table quantifies the estimated payments and benefits that would be provided to our named executive officers in each covered circumstance upon termination of employment or change in control.  The amounts payable were calculated assuming the named executive officers’ employment was terminated on August 25, 2007.
 
Name and Triggering Event
 
Salary (1)
 
Benefits (1)
 
Payment Under Cash Incentive Plan
 
Other
 
Total
 
                       
Donald J. Percenti -
                     
Termination without cause or for good reason (2)
 $
  600,000
 $
        24,270
 
               --
 
               --
  624,270
 
Change in Control
 
 --
 
 --
 
 (3)
         
                       
Kris G. Radhakrishnan -
                     
Termination without cause or for good reason
 $
 275,000
 $
       16,180
 
 --
 
 --
 $
  291,180
 
Change in Control
 
 --
 
 --
 
 (3)
         
                       
Sherice P. Bench -
                     
Termination without cause or for good reason
 $
370,800
 $
      24,270
 
 --
 
 --
 $
  395,070
 
Change in Control
 
 --
 
 --
 
 (3)
         
                       
Matthew Gase -
                     
Termination without cause or for good reason
 $
 245,000
 $
      16,180
 
 --
 
 --
 $
  261,180
 
Change in Control
 
 --
 
 --
 
 (3)
         
                       
Theresa Ann Broome -
                     
Termination without cause or for good reason
 $
 180,000
 $
       4,919
 
 --
 
 --
 $
184,919
 
Change in Control
 
 --
 
 --
 
 (3)
         
                       
(1)     The executive officer is generally entitled to receive termination payments and health benefits conditioned upon signing a release agreement.
(2)     Mr.  Percenti must forgo all entitlement to termination payments or benefits if he elects not to be bound by the covenant not to compete in his employment agreement.
(3)     Upon change of control of the Company, payment will be made under the CIP plan.  The current or future value of the CIP units cannot be reasonably estimated.

93

Compensation of Directors
 
The members of our board of directors who are not employees or affiliated with the Company may receive compensation for their services as directors in an amount up to $50,000 annually, which is paid in quarterly installments.  In addition, our directors receive reimbursement of expenses incurred in connection with their participation on the board.
 
The following table provides information concerning compensation awarded to, earned by, or paid to our non-employee directors during the year ended August 25, 2007.
 
Name
 
Fees Earned or Paid in Cash ($)
 
All Other Compensation ($)
 
Total ($)
Peter Lamm (1)
 
              --
 
                --
 
                         -
Mac LaFollette (1)
 
 --
 
 --
 
 -
 
W. Gregg Smart (1)
 
 --
 
 --
 
 -
 
Jean Ann McKenzie (2)
 
50,000
 
 8,481
 
  58,481
 
Myles Kleeger
 
                50,000
 
 --
 
                50,000
Alan J. Bowers
 
                50,000
 
 --
 
                50,000
             
(1)     Messrs. Lamm, LaFollette and Smart are considered affiliates of the Company through their positions with Fenway Partners.  Therefore they do not receive compensation for their services as directors.
(2)     Ms. McKenzie received $8,481 in compensation for consulting services performed during fiscal year 2007.

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

     The following table provides certain information as of the date of this report with respect to the beneficial ownership of the interests in Parent Holdings, by (i) each holder known by us who beneficially owns 5% or more of the outstanding equity interests of Parent Holdings, (ii) each of the members of our board of directors, (iii) each of our named executive officers and (iv) all of the members of our board of directors and our executive officers as a group. Unless otherwise indicated, the business address of each person is our corporate address.
 
       
Percentage
       
Percentage
   
       
Ownership
       
Ownership
   
       
Interest in
       
Interest In
   
 
Common
 
Common
   
Preferred
 
Preferred
   
 
Stock
 
Stock
   
Stock
 
Stock
   
American Achievement Holdings LLC(1)
 
  415,510
 
              82
%
 
 —
 
 —
   
    c/o Fenway Partners, LLC.
                     
    152 West 57th Street
                     
    New York, NY 10019
                     
Investors advised by J.P. Morgan Investment Management Inc.(2)
 
    70,729
 
              14
%
 
 —
 
 —
   
    c/o J.P.Morgan Investment Management Inc.
                     
    522 Fifth Avenue
                     
    New York, New York 10036
                     
Carlyle Mezzanine Partners, L.P.
 
 —
 
 —
   
      7,500
 
           100
%
 
    1001 Pennsylvania Avenue
                     
    Washington, D.C. 20004-2505
                     
Alan J. Bowers
 
 —
 
 —
   
 —
 
 —
   
Myles Kleeger
 
 —
 
 —
   
 —
 
 —
   
Mac LaFollette
                     
Peter Lamm(3)
 
  415,510
 
              82
%
 
 —
 
 —
   
Jean Ann McKenzie
 
 —
 
 —
   
 —
 
 —
   
W. Gregg Smart
 
 —
 
 —
   
 —
 
 —
   
All executive officers and directors as a group (13 persons) (4)
 
  415,510
 
              82
%
 
 —
 
 —
   
     
(1)
 
All of the voting interests of American Achievement Holdings LLC are held by Fenway Partners Capital Fund II, L.P., FPIP, LLC and FPIP Trust, LLC, each of which are affiliates of Fenway Partners, LLC. Accordingly, such entities may be deemed to beneficially own the shares of common stock held by American Achievement LLC. Each of such entities disclaims beneficial ownership of such shares except to the extent of its pecuniary interest therein.
 
   
(2)
 
The investors are J.P. Morgan U.S. Direct Corporate Finance Institutional Investors II LLC (“CFII I”), which holds 67,715 shares of common stock, J.P. Morgan U.S. Direct Corporate Finance Private Investors II LLC (“CFII P”), which holds 2,660 shares of common stock and 522 Fifth Ave Fund, L.P. (“522”), which holds 354 shares of common stock. J.P. Morgan Investment Management Inc., a registered investment advisor, controls the voting and disposition of these shares as the owner of the managing member of CFII I and CFII P and as investment advisor to 522.
 
   
(3)
 
Mr. Lamm is a founder of Fenway Partners, LLC. a managing member of Fenway Partners II LLC, the general partner of Fenway Partners Capital Fund II, L.P. and is a managing member of each of FPIP, LLC and FPIP Trust, LLC. Accordingly, Mr. Lamm may be deemed to beneficially own the shares of common stock held by American Achievement Holdings LLC. Mr. Lamm disclaims beneficial ownership of such shares except to the extent of his pecuniary interests therein.
 
   
(4)
 
None of our named executive officers are currently beneficial owners of interests in Parent Holdings and are therefore not listed separately in this table.

94

Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence

Arrangements with Our Investors

     An investor group led by Fenway Partners Capital Fund II, L.P. owns substantially all of the outstanding common stock of Parent Holdings. These investors entered into a stockholders agreement with Parent Holdings, which agreement contains agreements with respect to the election of directors of our company, restrictions on issue or transfer of shares, registration rights and other special corporate governance provisions. The agreement contains customary indemnification provisions. One of our directors, Peter Lamm, is a managing member of the general partner of Fenway Partners Capital Fund II, L.P.

Management Agreement

     AAC Holding Corp. and AAC entered into a management agreement with Fenway Partners, LLC, an affiliate of Fenway Partners Capital Fund, II, L.P., pursuant to which Fenway Partners, LLC provides management and other advisory services. Pursuant to this agreement, Fenway Partners, LLC receives an aggregate annual management fee equal to the greater of $3.0 million or 5% of the previous fiscal year’s EBITDA. EBITDA is defined in the management agreement as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, restructuring charges, management fees and other one-time non-recurring charges. In addition, the management agreement provides that Fenway Partners, LLC will also receive customary fees in connection with certain subsequent financing and acquisition transactions. The management agreement includes customary indemnification provisions in favor of Fenway Partners, LLC and its affiliates. Amounts paid under the management agreement totaled approximately $3.7 million and $3.3 million for the years ended August 25, 2007 and August 26, 2006, respectively.

Other Transactions

     On May 10, 2006, simultaneously with Jean Ann McKenzie’s appointment to AAC’s board of directors, we entered into a consulting agreement with Ms. McKenzie whereby, Ms. McKenzie will, from time to time, provide certain consulting services at our request.

Policies and Procedures for Review of Related-Person Transactions

     Minimal related party activity occurs year to year and all reportable items are well-known, including Fenway management fees and expenses, board of director expenses, a consulting agreement with a member of our board of directors, and a building lease at one of our subsidiaries.  Related party transactions are monitored by the Vice President of Legal Affairs.
 
Director Independence

     Although none of the Company’s securities are listed on any stock exchange, the Board of Directors is required to select and apply the independence standards of a stock exchange.  For the purposes of determining the independence of the Company’s directors and committee members, the Board of Directors selected the definition used by the NASDAQ Stock Market.  Under the NASDAQ listing standards, Jean Ann McKenzie, Alan J. Bowers and Myles Kleeger qualify as independent directors.

     The Board of Directors is also required to review its committees to determine if its members meet the NASDAQ Stock Market definitions of director independence for purposes of such committees.  For the audit committee, the Board of Directors concluded that two of the three members, Mac LaFollette and W. Gregg Smart, are not independent due to their association with Fenway Partners Capital Fund II, L.P.  The third audit committee member, Alan J. Bowers, is independent and qualifies as a financial expert as required by Rule 4350(d)(2)(A) of the NASDAQ listing standards.  Additionally, for the compensation committee, the Board of Directors concluded that all three of its members, Mac LaFollette, W. Gregg Smart and Peter Lamm, are not independent under the NASDAQ listing standards.

95


Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services

     The following table sets forth the aggregate fees billed to the Company for the fiscal years 2007 and 2006 by Deloitte & Touche LLP:
 
             
% of Services     
 
Fiscal Year Ended 
 
Fiscal Year Ended 
 
 
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
August 25, 2007 
 
  August 26, 2006 
 
Audit fees
$
          636,000
 
$
             443,000
 
                  80
%
 
                        38
%
 
Audit-related fees
 
                      -
   
             260,000
 
                     -
%
 
                        22
%
 
Tax fees
 
          125,000
   
             140,000
 
                  17
%
 
                        12
%
 
All other fees
 
            22,000
   
             322,000
 
                    3
%
 
                        28
%
 
Total fees
$
          783,000
 
$
          1,165,000
 
                100
%
 
                      100
%
 
                         
     The “Audit Fees” billed during the periods above were for professional services rendered for the audit of our financial statements. “Audit-Related Fees” were for services related to accounting consultation of the Parent Holdings debt offer for the year ended August 26, 2006. “Tax Fees” consist of fees billed for professional services rendered for tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning. “All other fees” primarily relate to due diligence as a part of the Powers acquisition for the year ended August 25, 2007 and consultation on a potential acquisition and to the audit of pension and postretirement plans for the year ended August 25, 2007.

     The Audit Committee has adopted a policy for the pre-approval of all audit and non-audit services to be performed for the Company by its independent registered public accounting firm. The Audit Committee has considered the role of Deloitte & Touche LLP in providing audit, audit-related and tax services to the Company and has concluded that such services are compatible with Deloitte & Touche LLP’s role as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm.
 

PART IV

Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules

(a) Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
The following documents are filed as part of this report;
1. Consolidated Financial Statements. See “Index to Consolidated Financial Statements” — Item 8.
2. Financial Statement Schedules. No financial statement schedules are submitted because of the absence of the conditions under which they are required or because the required information is included in the consolidated financial statements.
3. Exhibits. See “Exhibit Index.”



96

EXHIBIT INDEX
         
Exhibit
     
Number
   
Designation
         
 
3.1
   
Certificate of Incorporation of American Achievement Group Holding Corp. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to American Achievement Group Holdings Corp.’s Form S-4 as filed on September 1, 2006).
         
 
3.2
   
Bylaws of American Achievement Group Holding Corp. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to American Achievement Group Holdings Corp.’s Form S-4 as filed on September 1, 2006)
         
 
3.3
   
Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of AAC Group Holding Corp. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to AAC Group Holding Corp.’s Form 8-K as filed on January 24, 2006).
         
 
3.4
   
Bylaws of AAC Group Holding Corp. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to AAC Group Holding Corp.’s Form S-4 as filed on December 21, 2004).
         
 
3.5
   
Certificate of Incorporation of American Achievement Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to American Achievement Corporation’s Form S-4/A as filed on March 14, 2002).
         
 
3.6
   
Bylaws of American Achievement Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to American Achievement Corporation’s Amended Form S-4 as filed on April 5, 2002).
         
 
4.1
   
Indenture, dated as of June 12, 2006, among the American Achievement Group Holding Corp. and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to American Achievement Group Holdings Corp.’s Form S-4 as filed on September 1, 2006).
         
 
4.2
   
Form of 14.75% Senior PIK Note due October 1, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to American Achievement Group Holdings Corp.’s Form S-4 as filed on September 1, 2006).
         
 
4.3
   
Exchange and Registration Rights Agreement, dated June 12, 2006, among American Achievement Group Holding Corp., Goldman, Sachs & Co. and Lehman Brothers Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to American Achievement Group Holdings Corp.’s Form S-4 as filed on September 1, 2006)
         
 
4.4
   
Indenture, dated as of November 16, 2004, among the AAC Group Holding Corp. and U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 to AAC Group Holding Corp.’s Form S-4 as filed on December 21, 2004).
         
 
4.5
   
Form of 10.75% Senior Discount Note due October 1, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.8 to AAC Group Holding Corp.’s Form S-4 as filed on December 21, 2004).
         
 
4.6
   
Indenture, dated as of March 25, 2004, among The Bank of New York, as Trustee, and the Guarantors (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to American Achievement Corporation’s Report on Form 10-Q, dated July 13, 2004).
         
 
4.7
   
Form of 8.25% Senior Subordinated Notes due April 1, 2012 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to American Achievement Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q as filed on July 13, 2004).
         
 
10.1
   
Credit and Guaranty Agreement, dated March 25, 2004, by and among American Achievement Corporation, the Guarantors, Goldman Sachs Credit Partners L.P. and the other lender parties thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 American Achievement Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q as filed on July 13, 2004).
         
 
10.2
   
Amendment to Credit Agreement and Guaranty Agreement, dated August 17, 2006, by and among American Achievement Corporation, the Guarantors, Goldman Sachs Credit Partners L.P., and such other lender parties thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 American Achievement Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K as filed on August 18, 2006).
         
 
10.3
   
Pledge and Security Agreement between the Guarantors and Goldman Sachs Credit Partners, L.P., dated March 25, 2004 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of American Achievement Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q as filed on July 13, 2004).
97

         
Exhibit
     
Number
   
Designation
         
 
10.4
   
Intercreditor Agreement between Goldman Sachs Credit Partners L.P., the Secured Parties and The Bank of Nova Scotia, dated March 25, 2004 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 of American Achievement Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q as filed on July 13, 2004).
         
 
10.5
   
First Amended and Restated Letter Agreement for Fee Consignment and Purchase of Gold between Commemorative Brands, Inc. and The Bank of Nova Scotia, dated March 25, 2004 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 of American Achievement Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q as filed on July 13, 2004).
         
 
10.6
   
Letter Agreement for Addition of Approved Inventory Locations between Commemorative Brands, Inc. and The Bank of Nova Scotia, dated June 9, 2004 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 of American Achievement Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q as filed on July 13, 2004).
         
 
10.7
   
Management Advisory Agreement by and between AAC Holding Corp., American Achievement Corporation, and Fenway Partners, Inc., dated March 25, 2004 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 of American Achievement Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q as filed on July 13, 2004).
         
 
10.8
   
Employment Agreement, dated as of December 16, 1996 by and between Commemorative Brands, Inc. and Donald J. Percenti (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 of American Achievement Corporation’s Form S-4/A as filed on April 5, 2002).
         
 
10.9
   
First Amendment to the Employment Agreement by and between Commemorative Brands, Inc. and Donald J. Percenti dated April 9, 2004 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16 of American Achievement Corporation’s Form S-4 as filed on July 22, 2004).
         
 
10.10
   
Employment Agreement, dated as of April 16, 2007 by and between Commemorative Brands, Inc. and Kris G. Radhakrishnan.
         
 
10.11
   
Employment Agreement, dated as of December 16, 1996 by and between Commemorative Brands, Inc. and Sherice P. Bench, as amended (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 of American Achievement Corporation’s Form S-4/A as filed on April 5, 2002)
         
 
10.12
   
First Amendment to the Employment Agreement by and between Commemorative Brands, Inc. and Sherice P. Bench, dated July 2, 1999 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 of American Achievement Corporation’s Form S-4 as filed on July 22, 2004).
         
 
10.13
   
Second Amendment to the Employment Agreement by and between Commemorative Brands, Inc. and Sherice P. Bench dated April 9, 2004 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 of American Achievement Corporation’s Form S-4 as filed on July 22, 2004).
         
 
10.14
   
Employment Agreement dated as of February 1, 2006 between Commemorative Brands, Inc. and Matthew Gase (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to American Achievement Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K as filed on June 5, 2006).
         
 
10.15
   
Employment Agreement dated as of January 14, 2000 by and between Commemorative Brands, Inc. and Norman C. Smith (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.15 of American Achievement Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed on November 22, 2006).
         
 
10.16
   
First Amendment to the Employment Agreement by and between Commemorative Brands, Inc. and Norman C. Smith, dated April 12, 2004 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16 of American Achievement Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed on November 22, 2006).
         
 
10.17
   
Second Amendment to the Employment Agreement by and between Commemorative Brands, Inc. and Norman C. Smith, dated May 12, 2004 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.17 of American Achievement Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed on November 22, 2006).
         
 
10.18
   
Employment Agreement, dated as of April 18, 2006 by and between Commemorative Brands, Inc. and Ann Broome.
         
98

Exhibit
     
Number
   
Designation
         
 
12.1
   
Statement regarding Computation of Ratios of Earnings to Fixed Charges
         
 
21.1
   
Subsidiaries of American Achievement Group Holding Corp.
         
 
31.1
   
Certification by Donald J. Percenti pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
         
 
31.2
   
Certification by Kris G. Radhakrishnan pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
         
         
 
32.1
   
Certification by Donald J. Percenti pursuant to Section 1350, Chapter 63 of Title 18, United States Code, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
         
 
32.2
   
Certification by Kris G. Radhakrishnan pursuant to Section 1350, Chapter 63 of Title 18, United States Code, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
99

Signatures

     Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrants have duly caused this report to be signed on their behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 
 
 
 
 
 
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP.
(Registrant)
 
 
 
 
AAC GROUP HOLDING CORP.
(Registrant)
 
 
 
 
AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION
(Registrant)
 
 
/s/ Donald J. Percenti
 
/s/ Kris G. Radhakrishnan
 
Donald J. Percenti
 
Kris G. Radhakrishnan
 
Chief Executive Officer
 
Chief Financial Officer
 
     
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Annual Report on Form 10-K has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrants and in the capacities as of this 7th day of December, 2007.

 
 
 
Signatures
 
Title
/s/ Donald J. Percenti 
 
President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) and Director of American Achievement Group Holding Corp., AAC Group Holding Corp., and American Achievement Corporation
Donald J. Percenti
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Kris G. Radhakrishnan 
 
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of American Achievement Group Holding Corp., AAC Group Holding Corp., and American Achievement Corporation
Kris G. Radhakrishnan
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Mac LaFollette
 
Director of American Achievement Group Holding Corp., AAC Group Holding Corp., and American Achievement Corporation
Mac LaFollette
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Peter Lamm 
 
Director of American Achievement Group Holding Corp., AAC Group Holding Corp., and American Achievement Corporation
Peter Lamm
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ W. Gregg Smart 
 
Director of American Achievement Group Holding Corp., AAC Group Holding Corp., and American Achievement Corporation
W. Gregg Smart
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Alan J. Bowers
 
Director of American Achievement Group Holding Corp., AAC Group Holding Corp., and American Achievement Corporation
Alan J. Bowers
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Jean Ann McKenzie 
 
Director of American Achievement Group Holding Corp., AAC Group Holding Corp., and American Achievement Corporation
Jean Ann McKenzie
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Myles Kleeger 
 
Director of American Achievement Group Holding Corp., AAC Group Holding Corp., and American Achievement Corporation
Myles Kleeger
 
 


 
100

 
 
 
 
EX-10.10 2 exhibit_10-10.htm EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT - KRIS G. RADHAKRISHNAN exhibit_10-10.htm
 
EXHIBIT 10.10
 

 
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
 
This Employment Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into as of this 16th day of April, 2007, by and between COMMEMORATIVE BRANDS, INC. and any successors thereto (collectively referred to as the “Company”) and Kris Radhakrishnan (“Executive”).
 
The parties hereby agree as follows:
 
1.  Employment. Executive will serve the Company in the position of Chief Financial Officer of American Achievement Corporation, its Parents and its Subsidiaries and will perform such duties as from time to time shall be determined by the Board of Directors of the Company, and will perform, faithfully and diligently, the services and functions performed and will carry out the functions of his office and furnish his best advice, information, judgment and knowledge with respect to the business of the Company. Executive agrees to perform such duties as hereinabove described and to devote full-time attention and energy to the business of the Company. Executive will not, during the term of employment under this Agreement, engage in any other business activity if such business activity would impair Executive’s ability to carry out his duties under this Agreement.
 
2.   Term. Contingent upon successful completion of a criminal background investigation, reference check and pre-employment drug screen, this Agreement shall be effective April 16, 2007 and end on April 15, 2008, and shall thereafter renew for successive one-year terms, unless two months’ notice is given by either party to the other party of non-renewal. However, this Agreement may be terminated at any time by either party in accordance with Section 6 hereof.
 
3.  Compensation and Other Benefits.
 
3.1 Salary. The salary compensation to be paid by the Company to Executive and which Executive agrees to accept from the Company for services performed and to be performed by Executive hereunder shall be an annual gross amount, before applicable withholding and other payroll deductions, of $275,000, payable in equal bi-weekly installments of $10,576.92, subject to such changes as the Board of Directors of the Company may, in its sole discretion, from time to time determine.
 
3.2 Benefits. Executive shall be entitled to participate in such employee benefit programs, plans and policies (including incentive bonus plans) as are maintained by the Company and as may be established for the employees of the Company from time to time on the same basis as other executive employees are entitled thereto, except to the extent such plans are duplicative of benefits otherwise provided to Executive under this Agreement (e.g. severance). It is understood that the establishment, termination or change in any such Executive employee benefit programs, plans or policies shall be at the option of the Company in the exercise of its sole discretion, from time to time, and any such termination or change in such program, plan or policy will not affect this Agreement so long as Executive is treated on the same basis as other executive employees participating in such program, plan or policy, as the case may be. Upon termination of employment under this Agreement, without regard to the manner in which the termination was brought about, Executive’s rights in such employee benefit programs, plans or policies shall be governed solely by the terms of the program, plan or policy itself and not this Agreement. Executive shall be entitled to an annual paid vacation in accordance with the Company’s personnel policy for his years of service completed as an employee of the Company (and, to the extent applicable, the Company’s predecessors) except that Executive shall be entitled to four weeks of paid vacation effective with his employment date.
 
4.  Working Facilities. During the term of his employment under this Agreement, Executive shall be furnished with a private office, stenographic services and such other facilities and services as are commensurate with his position with the Company and adequate for the performance of his duties under this Agreement.
 
5.  Expenses. During the term of his employment under this Agreement, Executive is authorized to incur reasonable out-of-pocket expenses for the discharge of his duties hereunder and the promotion of business of the Company, including expenses for entertainment, travel and related items that are incurred in accordance with the Company’s policies. The Company shall reimburse Executive for all such expenses upon presentation by Executive from time to time of itemized accounts of expenditures incurred in accordance with Company policies.
 
6.  Termination. The employment relationship between Executive and the Company is “at-will”, which means that Executive’s employment under this Agreement may be terminated with or without cause or reason by either the Company or Executive at any time. Payment to Executive upon his termination is governed by the following terms and conditions.
 

6.1 Termination by Company for Cause. The following events or
 
circumstances are deemed “Cause” for Executive’s termination.
 
(i)  
Executive’s indictment of, or plea of nolo contendere to, a felony or other crime involving moral turpitude;
 
(ii)  
Executive’s material breach of a contractual obligation to the Company or any of its Affiliates (as defined below);
 
(iii)  
Executive’s failure to perform, or gross negligence in the performance of, Executive material duties and responsibilities to the Company or any of its Affiliates; or
 
(iv)  
Executive’s substantial, wrongful damage to property of the Company.
 
If the Executive is terminated for Cause, upon payment by the Company to Executive of all salary earned but unpaid through the termination date, accrued and unused vacation, and any accrued and unpaid bonus to the date of such termination, the Company shall have no further liability to Executive for compensation in accordance herewith, and Executive will not be entitled to receive any other salary, the Termination Payments or Termination Benefits (as such terms are defined below) except aforesaid vacation and any accrued bonus. For purposes of this Agreement, “Affiliates” means all persons and entities directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by or under common control with the Company, where control may be by management authority, equity interest or otherwise.
 
6.2 Termination by Company Without Cause. In the event of the termination of Executive’s employment under this Agreement by the Company without Cause the Executive will be entitled to receive 26 bi-weekly payments equal to the average of his bi-weekly base salary in effect within the two years preceding the termination (including, for these purposes, average bi-weekly base salary of Executive from the Company’s predecessors) (“Termination Payments”), less legally required withholdings. In addition to the Termination Payments, Executive will be entitled to elect the continuation of health benefits under COBRA and the Company will pay the COBRA premiums for a maximum of 12-months, beginning on the date that Executive’s health coverage ceases due to his termination, accrued but unused vacation, and any accrued bonus (“Termination Benefits”). If Executive obtains employment while he is entitled to receive the Termination Payments and the Termination Benefits, the payment of the Termination Benefits shall cease upon Executive becoming covered under the new employer’s health coverage plan at no cost to Executive. The combination of the Termination Payments and the Termination Benefits constitute the sole amount to which Executive is entitled if termination is without Cause.
 
6.3 Termination by Executive Without Good Reason. Executive may terminate his employment under this Agreement without Good Reason as defined in Paragraph 6.4 below upon the giving of 30 days written notice of termination. In the event of such termination, in lieu of the 30 day notice period, the Company may elect to pay Executive compensation for the notice period (or any remaining portion thereof), plus unused accrued vacation and any accrued unpaid bonus, in which event Executive’s services to the company will be terminated immediately. No Termination Payments or Termination Benefits other than as set forth in Section 6.3 shall be payable upon Executive’s termination of this Agreement without Good Reason.
 
6.4 Termination by Executive With Good Reason. Executive may terminate his employment under this Agreement for Good Reason. For purposes of this Agreement, “Good Reason” shall mean:
 
(i)  
Without Executive’s consent, the assignment to Executive of substantial duties inconsistent with Executive’s then-current position, duties, responsibilities, change in the reporting level and status with the Company, or any removal of Executive from his titles and offices, except in connection with the termination of Executive’s employment under this Agreement by Company or as a result of Executive’s death or permanent disability (as defined in the Company’s or Executive’s disability insurance policies);
 
(ii)  
The Company requiring Executive to relocate anywhere other than Austin, or Dallas, Texas without Executive’s consent; or
 
(iii)  
A decrease in Executive’s salary from the salary in effect upon the date hereof that is inconsistent with or not commensurate with Executive’s then current position in the Company.
 
(iv)  
In the event of termination under this Section 6.4, the Company shall pay to Executive the same Termination Payments and Termination Benefits to which Executive would have been entitled had he been terminated by the Company without Cause.
 

 6.5 Death or Permanent Disability. Executive’s employment under this Agreement shall terminate upon Executive’s death or permanent disability (as defined in the Company’s or Executive’s disability insurance policies). Other than accrued but unused vacation and any accrued but unpaid bonus, no Termination Payments or Termination Benefits shall be payable upon Executive’s death or permanent disability.
 
 6.6 Release Agreement. The payment of Termination Payments and Termination Benefits pursuant to Section 6 are conditioned upon Executive signing an effective release of claims in the form provided by the Company (the "Release Agreement") within the time limits set forth by the Company.
 
 6.7 Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, (i) except to the extent required by law, no payment will be due and payable under this Section 6 until the later of the next regular Company payday following the effective date of the Release Agreement or that date which is in accordance with the requirements of clause (ii) hereof and (ii) in the event that at the time that Executive’s employment with the Company terminates the Company is publicly traded (as defined in Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code), any amounts payable under this Section 6 that would otherwise be considered deferred compensation subject to the additional twenty percent (20%) tax imposed by Section 409A if paid within six (6) months following the date of termination of Company employment shall be paid at the later of the time otherwise provided in Section 6 or the time that will prevent such amounts from being considered deferred compensation.
 
7.  Confidentiality. The Company and its Affiliates possess confidential information, proprietary information goodwill and trade secrets, which is important to their business. During the course of Executive’s employment with the Company, the Executive will receive and have access to confidential information, proprietary information, goodwill and trade secrets belonging to the Company and its Affiliates that Executive did not have or have access to prior to Executive’s execution of this Agreement to enable Executive to perform his duties and responsibilities hereunder. During and after the term of employment under this Agreement, Executive agrees that he shall not, without the express written consent of Company, directly or indirectly communicate or divulge to, or use for his own benefit or for the benefit of any other person, firm, association or corporation, any of Company’s or its Affiliates’ trade secrets, confidential information, proprietary information or goodwill, which trade secrets, confidential information, proprietary data and goodwill were communicated to or otherwise learned or acquired by Executive during his employment relationship with Company (“Confidential Information”), except that Executive may disclose such matters to the extent that disclosure is required (a) at Company’s direction or (b) by a court or other governmental agency of competent jurisdiction. As long as such matters remain trade secrets, confidential information, proprietary information or goodwill, Executive shall not use such trade secrets, confidential information, proprietary information or goodwill in any way or in any capacity other than as expressly consented to by Company.
 

 
8.      Covenant not to Compete or Solicit. Ancillary to the Company’s commitments as set forth herein, including but not limited to, the obligation to provide Executive with the Company’s and its Affiliates’ confidential information, proprietary information, trade secrets and goodwill and Executive’s agreement not to improperly use or disclose the Company’s and its Affiliates’ proprietary information, trade secrets or goodwill, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, and to avoid the actual or threatened misappropriation of the Company’s and its Affiliates’ confidential information, proprietary information, trade secrets or goodwill, Executive agrees to the following covenants:
 
 8.1 Executive agrees to refrain during his employment under this Agreement and for one year after the termination of his employment under this agreement for any reason, without written permission of the Company, from becoming involved in any way, within the boundaries of the United States, in the business of manufacturing, designing, servicing or selling, the type of jewelry or fine paper or other scholastic, licensed sports, insignia, recognition or affinity products manufactured or sold (or then contemplated to be manufactured or sold) by the Company, its divisions, subsidiaries and/or other affiliated entities, including but not limited to, as an employee, consultant, independent representative, partner representative, partner or proprietor. For the avoidance of doubt, these restrictions shall apply, but shall not be limited to, Executive becoming involved with Herff-Jones, Jostens, Visant, Intergold, Lifetouch and Walsworth.
 
 8.2 Executive also agrees to refrain during his employment under this Agreement, and in the event of the termination of his employment under this Agreement for any reason, for one year thereafter, without written permission from the Company, from diverting, taking, soliciting, licensed sports, jewelry or fine paper products, insignia, recognition or affinity business of any customer of the Company, its divisions, subsidiaries and/or affiliated entities, or any potential customer of the Company, its divisions, subsidiaries and/or affiliated entities whose identity became known to Executive through his employment by the Company and to which the Company has made a written business proposal or provided written pricing information before the termination of Executive’s employment under this Agreement.
 
8.3 Executive agrees to refrain during his employment under this Agreement, and in the event of the termination of his employment under this Agreement for any reason for a period of one year thereafter, from inducing or attempting to influence any employee or independent representative of the Company, its divisions, subsidiaries, and/or affiliated entities to terminate his or his employment or association with the Company or such other entity.
 

           8.4 Executive further agrees that the covenants in Sections 8.1, 8.2 and 8.3 are made to protect the legitimate business interests of the Company, including interests in the Company’s “Confidential Information,” as defined in Section 7 of this Agreement, and not to restrict his mobility or to prevent him from utilizing his skills. In signing this Agreement, Executive gives the Company assurance that he has carefully read and considered all the terms and conditions of this Agreement, including the restraints imposed on him under Section 7 and 8. Executive agrees without reservation that these restraints are necessary for the reasonable and proper protection of the Company and its Affiliates and that each and every one of the restraints is reasonable in respect to subject matter, length of time and geographic area. Executive further agrees that, were he to breach any of the covenants contained in Sections 7 and 8, he damage to the Company and its Affiliates would be irreparable. Executive therefore agrees that the Company, in addition to any other remedies available to it, shall be entitled to preliminary and permanent injunctive relief against any breach or threatened breach by him of any of those covenants, without having to post bond. Executive and the Company further agree that, in the event that any provision of Sections 7 and 8 is determined by any court of competent jurisdiction to be unenforceable by reason of its being extended over too great a time, too large a geographic area or too great a range of activities, that provision shall be deemed to be modified to permit its enforcement to the maximum extent permitted by law. It is also agreed that each of the Company's Affiliates shall have the right to enforce all of Executive’s obligations to that Affiliate under this Agreement, including without limitation pursuant to Sections 7 and 8.
 
9.  Controlling Law and Performability. The execution, validity, interpretation and performance of this Agreement will be governed by the laws of the state of Texas.
 
10.  Reparability. If any provision of this Agreement is rendered or declared illegal or unenforceable, all other provisions of this Agreement will remain in full force and effect.
 
11.  Notices. Any notice required or permitted to be given under this Agreement shall be sufficient if in writing and if sent by certified mail (return receipt requested) addressed as follows:
 
 If to Executive:       Kris G. Radhakrishnan
     95 West Lansdowne Circle
     The Woodlands, TX 77382
     
 If to the Company:     Commemorative Brands, Inc.
     7211 Circle S Road
     Austin, Texas 78745
     Attention: Don Percenti, President & CEO
 
Any address or other change to the above shall be in writing to the other party to become effective.
 
12.  Assignment. The rights and obligations of the Company under this Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be binding upon its successors and assigns. The rights and obligations of Executive under this Agreement are of a personal nature and shall neither be transferred nor assigned in whole or in part by Executive.
 
13.  Non-Waiver. No waiver of or failure to assert any claim, right, benefit or remedy hereunder shall operate as a waiver of any other claim, right, benefit or remedy of the company or Executive.
 
14.  Review and Consultation. Executive acknowledges that he has had a reasonable time to review and consider this Agreement and has been given the opportunity to consult with an attorney.
 
15. Entire Agreement and Amendments. This Agreement contains the entire agreement of Executive and the Company relating to the matters contained in this Agreement and supersedes all prior agreements and understandings, oral or written, between Executive and the Company with respect to the subject matter in this Agreement. This Agreement may be changed only by an agreement in writing by Executive and the Company.
 
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement on the date and year first above written.
  COMMEMORATIVE BRANDS, INC.  
       
Date
By:
/s/ DON PERCENTI  
    Don Percenti  
    President & CEO  
       
     EXECUTIVE  
       
    /s/ KRIS G. RADHAKRISHNAN  
     Kris G. Radhakrishnan  
       
EX-10.18 3 exhibit_10-18.htm EMPLOYMENT AGREEMEN - ANN BROOME exhibit_10-18.htm
 
EXHIBIT 10.18
 
 

 
 
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
     This Employment Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into as of this 18th day of April, 2006, by and between COMMEMORATIVE BRANDS, INC., and its Affiliates, TAYLOR PUBLISHING COMPANY, EDUCATIONAL COMMUNICATIONS, INC. and any successors thereto (collectively referred to as the “Company”) and ANN BROOME (“Executive”).
 
     The parties hereby agree as follows:
 
 
Employment. Executive will serve the Company in the position of Vice President Human Resources of Commemorative Brands, Inc. and its Affiliates, Taylor Publishing Company, Educational Communications, Inc. and any other companies subsequently acquired  and will perform such duties as from time to time shall be determined by the Board of Directors of the Company, and will perform, faithfully and diligently, the services and functions performed and will carry out the functions of his/her office and furnish his/her best advice, information, judgment and knowledge with respect to the business of the Company.  Executive agrees to perform such duties as hereinabove described and to devote full-time attention and energy to the business of the Company.  Executive will not, during the term of employment under this Agreement, engage in any other business activity if such business activity would impair Executive’s ability to carry out his duties under this Agreement.
 
Term. Contingent upon successful completion of a criminal background investigation, reference check and pre-employment drug screen, this Agreement shall be effective April 18, 2006 and end on March 31, 2007, and shall thereafter renew for successive one-year terms, unless two months’ notice is given by either party to the other party of non-renewal. However, this Agreement may be terminated at any time by either part in accordance with Section 6 hereof.
 
Compensation and Other Benefits.
 
Salary. The salary compensation to be paid by the Company to Executive and which Executive agrees to accept from the Company for services performed and to be performed by Executive hereunder shall be an annual gross amount, before applicable withholding and other payroll deductions, of $170,000, payable in equal bi-weekly installments of $6,538.46, subject to such changes as the Board of Directors of the Company may, in its sole discretion, from time to time determine.
 
Benefits. Executive shall be entitled to participate in such employee benefit programs, plans and policies (including incentive bonus plans and incentive stock option plans) as are maintained by the Company and as may be established for the employees of the Company from time to time on the same basis as other executive employees are entitled thereto, except to the extent such plans are duplicative of benefits otherwise provided to Executive under this Agreement (e.g. severance).  It is understood that the establishment, termination or change in any such Executive employee benefit programs, plans or policies shall be at the option of the Company in the exercise of its sole discretion, from time to time, and any such termination or change in such program, plan or policy will not affect this Agreement so long as Executive is treated on the same basis as other executive employees participating in such program, plan or policy, as the case may be.  Upon termination of employment under this Agreement, without regard to the manner in which the termination was brought about, Executive’s rights in such employee benefit programs, plans or policies shall be governed solely by the terms of the program, plan or policy itself and not this Agreement.  Executive shall be entitled to four (4) weeks annual paid vacation concurrent with this Agreement and otherwise in accordance with the Company’s personnel policy for his years of service completed as an employee of the Company (and, to the extent applicable, the Company’s predecessors).
 
Working Facilities. During the term of his/her employment under this Agreement, Executive shall be furnished with a private office, stenographic services and such other facilities and services as are commensurate with his position with the Company and adequate for the performance of his duties under this Agreement.
 
Expenses. During the term of his employment under this Agreement, Executive is authorized to incur reasonable out-of-pocket expenses for the discharge of his/her duties hereunder and the promotion of business of the Company, including expenses for entertainment, travel and related items, that are incurred in accordance with the Company’s policies.  The Company shall reimburse Executive for all such expenses upon presentation by Executive from time to time of itemized accounts of expenditures incurred in accordance with Company policies.
 

Termination. The employment relationship between Executive and the Company is “at-will”, which means that Executive’s employment under this Agreement may be terminated with or without cause or reason by either the Company or Executive at any time.  Payment to Executive upon his termination is governed by the following terms and conditions.
 
Termination  by Company for Cause. The following events or circumstances are deemed “Cause” for Executive’s termination.
 
·  
Executive’s indictment of, or plea of nolo contendere to, a felony or other crime involving moral turpitude;
 
·  
Executive’s material breach of a contractual obligation to the Company or any of its Affiliates (as defined below);
 
·  
Executive’s failure to perform, or gross negligence in the performance of, Executives material duties and responsibilities to the Company or any of its Affiliates; or
 
·  
Executive’s substantial, wrongful damage to property of the Company.
    
     If the Executive is terminated for Cause, upon payment by the Company to Executive of all salary earned but unpaid through the termination date, accrued and unused vacation, and any accrued and unpaid bonus to the date of such termination, the Company shall have no further liability to Executive for compensation in accordance herewith, and Executive will not be entitled to receive any other salary, the Termination Payments or Termination Benefits (as such terms are defined below) except aforesaid vacation and any accrued bonus.  For purposes of this Agreement, “Affiliates” means all persons and entities directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by or under common control with the Company, where control may be by management authority, equity interest or otherwise.
 
Termination by Company Without Cause.   In the event of the termination of Executive’s employment under this Agreement by the Company without Cause the Executive will be entitled to receive 26 bi-weekly payments equal to the average of his bi-weekly base salary in effect within the two years preceding the termination (including, for these purposes, average bi-weekly base salary of Executive from the Company’s predecessors) (“Termination Payments”), less legally required withholdings.  In addition to the Termination Payments, Executive will be entitled to elect the continuation of health benefits under COBRA and the Company will pay the COBRA premiums for a maximum of 12-months, beginning on the date that Executive’s health coverage ceases due to his termination, accrued but unused vacation, and any accrued bonus (“Termination Benefits”).  If Executive obtains employment while he is entitled to receive the Termination Payments and the Termination Benefits, each Termination Payment shall be reduced by the amount of his average bi-weekly compensation to be received in connection with his new employment and the payment of the Termination Benefits shall cease upon Executive becoming covered under the new employer’s health coverage plan. The combination of the Termination Payments and the Termination Benefits constitute the sole amount to which Executive is entitled if termination is without Cause.
 
Termination by Executive Without Good Reason. Executive may terminate his employment under this Agreement without Good Reason as defined in Paragraph 6.4 below upon the giving of 90 days written notice of termination.  In the event of such termination, in lieu of the 90 day notice period, the Company may elect to pay Executive compensation for the notice period (or any remaining portion thereof), plus unused accrued vacation and any accrued unpaid bonus, in which event Executive’s services to the company will be terminated immediately.  No Termination Payments or Termination Benefits other than as set forth in Section 6.3 shall be payable upon Executive’s termination of this Agreement without Good Reason.
 
Termination by Executive With Good Reason.  Executive may terminate his/her employment under this Agreement for Good Reason.  For purposes of this Agreement, “Good Reason” shall mean:
 
 
·  
Without Executive’s consent, the assignment to Executive of substantial duties inconsistent with Executive’s then-current position, duties, responsibilities and status with the Company, or any removal of Executive from his titles and offices, except in connection with the termination of Executive’s employment under this Agreement by Company or as a result of Executive’s death or permanent disability (as defined in the Company’s or Executive’s disability insurance policies);
 
·  
The Company requiring Executive to relocate anywhere other than Austin, or Dallas, Texas without Executive’s consent; or
 
·  
A decrease in Executive’s salary from the salary in effect upon the date hereof that is inconsistent with or not commensurate with Executive’s then current position in the Company.
 
     In the event of termination under this Section 6.4, the Company shall pay to Executive the same Termination Payments and Termination Benefits to which Executive would have been entitled had he/she been terminated by the Company without Cause.
 

Death or Permanent Disability. Executive’s employment under this Agreement shall terminate upon Executive’s death or permanent disability (as defined in the Company’s or Executive’s disability insurance policies).  Other than accrued but unused vacation and any accrued by unpaid bonus, no Termination Payments or Termination Benefits shall be payable upon Executive’s death or permanent disability.
 
Release Agreement. The Termination Payments and Termination Benefits pursuant to Section 6 are conditioned upon your signing a release of claims in the form provided by the Company (the "Release Agreement") within twenty-one days of the date on which you give or receive, as applicable, notice of termination of your employment and upon your not revoking the Employee Release thereafter.
 
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, (i) except to the extent required by law, no payment will be due and payable under this Section 6 until the later of the next regular Company payday following the effective date of the Release Agreement or that date which is in accordance with the requirements of clause (ii) hereof and (ii) in the event that at the time that Executive’s employment with the Company terminates the Company is publicly traded (as defined in Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code), any amounts payable under this Section 6 that would otherwise be considered deferred compensation subject to the additional twenty percent (20%) tax imposed by Section 409A if paid within six (6) months following the date of termination of Company employment shall be paid at the later of the time otherwise provided in Section 6 or the time that will prevent such amounts from being considered deferred compensation.
 
Confidentiality. The Company and its Affiliates possess confidential information, proprietary information goodwill and trade secrets, which is important to their  business.  Immediately upon Executive’s execution of this Agreement and during the course of Executive’s employment with the Company, the Company will give Executive confidential information, proprietary information, goodwill and trade secrets belonging to the Company and its Affiliates that Executive did not have or have access to prior to Executive’s execution of this Agreement to enable Executive to perform his/her duties and responsibilities hereunder.  During and after the term of employment under this Agreement, Executive agrees that he/she shall not, without the express written consent of Company, directly or indirectly communicate or divulge to, or use for his own benefit or for the benefit of any other person, firm, association or corporation, any of Company’s or its Affiliates’ trade secrets, confidential information, proprietary information or goodwill, which trade secrets, confidential information, proprietary data and goodwill were communicated to or otherwise learned or acquired by Executive during his employment relationship with Company (“Confidential Information”), except that Executive may disclose such matters to the extent that disclosure is required (a) at Company’s direction or (b) by a court or other governmental agency of competent jurisdiction.  As long as such matters remain trade secrets, confidential information, proprietary information or goodwill, Executive shall not use such trade secrets, confidential information, proprietary information or goodwill in any way or in any capacity other than as expressly consented to by Company.
 
Covenant not to Compete or Solicit. Ancillary to the Company’s commitments as set forth herein, including but not limited to, the obligation to provide Executive with the Company’s and its Affiliates’ confidential information, proprietary information, trade secrets and goodwill and Executive’s agreement not to improperly use or disclose the Company’s and its Affiliates’ proprietary information, trade secrets or goodwill, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, and to avoid the actual or threatened misappropriation of the Company’s and its Affiliates’ confidential information, proprietary information, trade secrets or goodwill, Executive agrees to the following covenants:
 
Executive agrees to refrain during his employment under this Agreement and for one year after the termination of his employment under this agreement for any reason, without written permission of the Company, from becoming involved in any way, within the boundaries of the United States, in the business of manufacturing, designing, servicing or selling, the type of jewelry or fine paper or other scholastic, licensed sports, insignia, recognition or affinity products manufactured or sold (or then contemplated to be manufactured or sold) by the Company, its divisions, subsidiaries and/or other affiliated entities (Affiliates), including but not limited to, as an employee, consultant, independent representative, partner representative, partner or proprietor.  For the avoidance of doubt, these restrictions shall apply, but shall not be limited to, Herff-Jones, Jostens, Visant and Intergold.
 
Executive also agrees to refrain during his/her employment under this Agreement, and in the event of the termination of his/her employment under this Agreement for any reason, for one year thereafter, without written permission from the Company, from diverting, taking, soliciting, licensed sports, insignia, recognition or affinity business of any customer of the Company, its divisions, subsidiaries and/or affiliated entities, or any potential customer of the Company, its divisions, subsidiaries and/or affiliated entities whose identity became known to Executive through his employment by the Company and to which the Company has made a written business proposal or provided written pricing information before the termination of Executive’s employment under this Agreement.
 
Executive agrees to refrain during his employment under this Agreement, and in the event of the termination of his employment under this Agreement for any reason for a period of one year thereafter, from inducing or attempting to influence any employee or independent representative of the Company, its divisions, subsidiaries, and/or affiliated entities to terminate his or his employment or association with the Company or such other entity.
 
 Executive further agrees that the covenants in Sections 8.1, 8.2 and 8.3 are made to protect the legitimate business interests of the Company, including interests in the Company’s “Confidential Information,” as defined in Section 7 of this Agreement, and not to restrict his mobility or to prevent him from utilizing his skills.  In signing this Agreement, Executive gives the Company assurance that he/she has carefully read and considered all the terms and conditions of this Agreement, including the restraints imposed on him/her under Section 7 and 8.  Executive agrees without reservation that these restraints are necessary for the reasonable and proper protection of the Company and its Affiliates and that each and every one of the restraints is reasonable in respect to subject matter, length of time and geographic area.  Executive further agrees that, were he/she to breach any of the covenants contained in Section 7 and 8, the damage to the Company and its Affiliates would be irreparable.  Executive therefore agrees that the Company, in addition to any other remedies available to it, shall be entitled to preliminary and permanent injunctive relief against any breach or threatened breach by him/her of any of those covenants, without having to post bond.  Executive and the Company further agree that, in the event that any provision of Section 7 and 8 is determined by any court of competent jurisdiction to be unenforceable by reason of its being extended over too great a time, too large a geographic area or too great a range of activities, that provision shall be deemed to be modified to permit its enforcement to the maximum extent permitted by law.  It is also agreed that each of the Company's Affiliates shall have the right to enforce all of Executive’s obligations to that Affiliate under this Agreement, including without limitation pursuant to Section 7 and 8.
 
Controlling Law and Performability. The execution, validity, interpretation and performance of this Agreement will be governed by the laws of the state of Texas.
 
Reparability. If any provision of this Agreement is rendered or declared illegal or unenforceable, all other provisions of this Agreement will remain in full force and effect.
 
Notices.  Any notice required or permitted to be given under this Agreement shall be sufficient if in writing and if sent by certified mail (return receipt requested) addressed as follows:
 
 
 If to Executive:       Ann Broome
     
 If to the Company:    Commemorative Brands, Inc.
     7211 Circle S Road
     Austin, Texas 78745
     Attention: Don Percenti, President & CEO
     
     
     
     
 
     Any address or other change to the above shall be in writing to the other party to become effective.


Assignment.  The rights and obligations of the Company under this Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be binding upon its successors and assigns.  The rights and obligations of Executive under this Agreement are of a personal nature and shall neither be transferred nor assigned in whole or in party by Executive.
 
Non-Waiver.  No waiver of or failure to assert any claim, right, benefit or remedy hereunder shall operate as a waiver of any other claim, right, benefit or remedy of the company or Executive.
 
Review and Consultation.  Executive acknowledges that he/she has had a reasonable time to review and consider this Agreement and has been given the opportunity to consult with an attorney.
 
 Entire Agreement and Amendments.  This Agreement contains the entire agreement of Executive and the company relating to the matters contained in this Agreement and supersedes all prior agreements and understandings, oral or written, between Executive and the Company with respect to the subject matter in this Agreement.  This Agreement may be changed only by an agreement in writing by Executive and the Company.
 
 
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement on the date and year first above written.
 
  COMMERATIVE BRANDS, INC.  
       
 
By:
/s/ DON PERCENTI  
    Name   
    Title   
       
     EXECUTIVE  
       
     /s/ ANN BROOME  
     Ann Broome  
 





EX-12.1 4 exhibit_12-1.htm STATEMENT RE: COMPUTATION OF RATIOS OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES exhibit_12-1.htm
 
EXHIBIT 12.1

CALCULATION OF RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES



                     
                     
   
American Achievement Group Holding Corp.
 
($ in thousands)
 
Fiscal Year Ended     
 
   
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
 August 27, 2005
 
Net income (loss) before income taxes
 
$
               (47,978
$
             3,192
 
$
                  3,550
 
                     
Fixed charges: (1) Interest charges
   
                 59,790
   
           39,799
   
                31,472
 
Interest portion of lease expense
   
                      583
   
                683
   
                     829
 
Total fixed charges
   
                 60,373
   
           40,482
   
                32,301
 
Net income from operations before income taxes and fixed charges
$
                 12,395
 
$
           43,674
 
$
                35,851
 
                     
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges (2)
   
                         -
   
1.08
x
 
1.11
x
                     
   
AAC Group Holding Corp.   
 
   
Fiscal Year Ended     
 
   
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
 August 27, 2005
 
Net income (loss) before income taxes
 
$
               (22,225
$
             8,277
 
$
                  3,550
 
                     
Fixed charges: (1) Interest charges
   
                 34,037
   
           34,714
   
                31,472
 
Interest portion of lease expense
   
                      583
   
                683
   
                     829
 
Total fixed charges
   
                 34,620
   
           35,397
   
                32,301
 
Net income from operations before income taxes and fixed charges
$
                 12,395
 
$
           43,674
 
$
                35,851
 
                     
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges (2)
   
                         -
   
1.23
x
 
1.11
x
                     
   
American Achievement Corporation   
 
   
Fiscal Year Ended     
 
   
August 25, 2007 
 
August 26, 2006 
 
 August 27, 2005
 
Net income (loss) before income taxes
 
$
               (10,767
$
           19,234
 
$
                11,324
 
                     
Fixed charges: (1) Interest charges
   
                 22,579
   
           23,757
   
                23,698
 
Interest portion of lease expense
   
                      583
   
                683
   
                     829
 
Total fixed charges
   
                 23,162
   
           24,440
   
                24,527
 
Net income from operations before income taxes and fixed charges
$
                 12,395
 
$
           43,674
 
$
                35,851
 
                     
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges:(2)
   
                         -
   
1.79
x
 
1.46
x
                     
     
(1)
 
During the periods presented the Company had no preferred stock outstanding that required a cash payment. Therefore, the ratio of earnings to combined fixed charges and preferred dividends was the same as the ratio of earnings to fixed charges for each of the periods presented.
 
   
(2)
 
For purposes of computing this ratio, earnings consist of income (loss) before taxes on income and fixed charges. Fixed charges consist of interest expense, amortization of deferred debt issuance costs and the portion of rental expense that includes an interest factor.  In fiscal year 2007 earnings before fixed charges were insufficient to cover fixed charges by approximately $48.0 million for Parent Holdings, $22.2 million for Intermediate Holdings and $10.8 million for AAC.





EX-21.1 5 exhibit_21-1.htm SUBSIDIARIES exhibit_21-1.htm

EXHIBIT 21.1

SUBSIDIARIES OF AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT GROUP HOLDING CORP., AAC GROUP HOLDING
CORP. AND AMERICAN ACHIEVEMENT CORPORATION



Entity
 
Jurisdiction of Incorporation
     
American Achievement Group Holding Corp.
 
Delaware
     
AAC Group Holding Corp.
 
Delaware
     
AAC Holding Corp.
 
Delaware
     
American Achievement Corporation
 
Delaware
     
American Achievement Corporation Subsidiaries:
   
Commemorative Brands, Inc.
 
Delaware
     Pulidos de Juarez, S.A. de C.V.
 
Ciudad Juarez Chihuahua Mexico
     CBI North America, Inc.
 
Delaware
Taylor Senior Holding Corp.
 
Delaware
     Taylor Holding Corp.
 
Delaware
     Taylor Publishing Company
 
Delaware
     Taylor Publishing Manufacturing, L.P.
 
Delaware
     Taylor Manufacturing Holdings, LLC
 
Delaware
Educational Communications, Inc.
 
Illinois
 
 
 


EX-31.1 6 exhibit_31-1.htm CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 (CEO) exhibit_31-1.htm

EXHIBIT 31.1

CERTIFICATION ACCOMPANYING PERIODIC REPORT
PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, Donald J. Percenti, certify that:

1.  
I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of American Achievement Group Holding Corp., AAC Group Holding Corp. and American Achievement Corporation;

2.  
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.  
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this annual report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.  
The company’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for the company and have;

a)  
designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b)  
evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

c)  
disclosed in this report any change in the company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the company’s most recent fiscal quarter (the company’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5.  
The company’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the company’s auditors and the audit committee of company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a)  
all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b)  
any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: December 7, 2007

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ DONALD J. PERCENTI  
 
 
Name:  
Donald J. Percenti 
 
 
Title:  
President and Chief Executive Officer
(principal executive officer) 
 
 
 
 


EX-31.2 7 exhibit_31-2.htm CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 (CFO) exhibit_31-2.htm

EXHIBIT 31.2

CERTIFICATION ACCOMPANYING PERIODIC REPORT
PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, Kris G. Radhakrishnan certify that:

1.  
I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of American Achievement Group Holding Corp., AAC Group Holding Corp. and American Achievement Corporation;

2.  
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.  
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this annual report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.  
The company’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for the company and have;

a)  
designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b)  
evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

c)  
disclosed in this report any change in the company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the company’s most recent fiscal quarter (the company’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5.  
The company’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the company’s auditors and the audit committee of company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a)  
all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b)  
any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: December 7, 2007

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ KRIS G. RADHAKRISHNAN
 
 
Name: 
Kris G. Radhakrishnan 
 
 
Title: 
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer 
 
     (principal financial officer)  
 


EX-32.1 8 exhibit_32-1.htm CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 (CEO) exhibit_32-1.htm

 
 EXHIBIT 32.1
 

CERTIFICATION ACCOMPANYING PERIODIC REPORT
PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, Donald J. Percenti, President and Chief Executive Officer of American Achievement Group Holding Corp., ACC Group Holding Corp. and American Achievement Corporation (the “Companies”), hereby certify that:

(1) The Annual Report of the Companies on Form 10-K for the year ended August 25, 2007 (the “Report”) fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Companies as of the dates and for the periods expressed in the Report.

Date: December 7, 2007

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ DONALD J. PERCENTI  
 
 
Name:  
Donald J. Percenti 
 
 
Title:  
President and Chief Executive Officer
(principal executive officer) 
 
 
 
 


EX-32.2 9 exhibit_32-2.htm CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 (CFO) exhibit_32-2.htm

EXHIBIT 32.2

CERTIFICATION ACCOMPANYING PERIODIC REPORT
PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, Kris G. Radhakrishnan, Chief Financial Officer of American Achievement Group Holding Corp., ACC Group Holding Corp. and American Achievement Corporation (the “Companies”), hereby certify that:

(1) The Annual Report of the Companies on Form 10-K for the year ended August 25, 2007 (the “Report”) fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Companies as of the dates and for the periods expressed in the Report.

Date: December 7, 2007

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ KRIS G. RADHAKRISHNAN  
 
 
Name:  
Kris G. Radhakrishnan  
 
 
Title:  
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer  
 
     (principal financial officer)  
 


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