a5753505.htm

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

FORM 10-QSB

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2008

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
Commission File Number 0-16106
 

Clearfield, Inc.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

Minnesota
41-1347235
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

5480 Nathan Lane North, Suite 120, Plymouth, Minnesota 55442
(Address of principal executive offices and zip code)

(763) 476-6866
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Check whether the issuer (1) filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act during the past 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
 
Yes
x
 
No
o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes
o  
No
x

State the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date:

Class:
Outstanding at June 30, 2008
Common stock, par value $.01
11,872,331
 

1




CLEARFIELD, INC.
 FORM 10-QSB
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

 
 
 
 
 
2


PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS UNAUDITED
CLEARFIELD, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
UNAUDITED
   
June 30, 2008
   
September 30, 2007
 
Assets
           
Current Assets
           
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 3,262,745     $ 3,304,645  
Available for sale securities
    -       2,825,000  
Accounts receivable, net
    2,406,152       2,418,651  
Inventories
    1,741,508       1,595,282  
Other current assets
    196,196       102,473  
Total  current assets
    7,606,601       10,246,051  
                 
Property plant and equipment, net
    1,635,161       1,773,739  
                 
Other Assets
               
Available for sale securities
    3,036,000       -  
Goodwill
    2,570,511       2,570,511  
Other
    284,309       281,589  
Notes receivable
    445,895       469,678  
Total other assets
    6,336,715       3,321,778  
     Total Assets
  $ 15,578,477     $ 15,341,568  
                 
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
               
Current Liabilities
               
Current maturities of long term debt
  $ 60,832     $ 68,215  
Accounts payable
    1,247,419       1,176,280  
Accrued compensation
    1,010,085       958,023  
Accrued expenses
    229,358       107,209  
Current liabilities of discontinued operations
    -       205,885  
Total  current liabilities
    2,547,694       2,515,612  
                 
Long term debt, net of current maturities
    49,106       95,207  
Deferred rent
    89,583       85,059  
Deferred income taxes
    144,549       77,701  
Other long term liabilities
    -       150,470  
Long term obligations of discontinued operations
    -       204,832  
Total Liabilities
    2,830,932       3,128,881  
                 
Shareholders’ Equity
               
Undesignated shares, 4,999,500 authorized shares: no shares issued and outstanding
    -       -  
Preferred stock, $.01 par value;  500 shares; no shares outstanding
    -       -  
Common stock, $ .01 par value; authorized 50,000,000 authorized shares; issued 11,872,331 shares
    118,723       118,723  
Additional paid-in capital
    52,076,465       52,037,207  
Accumulated deficit
    (39,183,643 )     (39,943,243 )
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
    (264,000 )     -  
Total shareholders’ equity
    12,747,545       12,212,687  
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
  $ 15,578,477     $ 15,341,568  
 
 
SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
3

 
CLEARFIELD, INC.
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
UNAUDITED
   
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
June 30,
   
June 30,
 
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
 
                         
Revenues
  $ 6,165,379     $ 4,907,046     $ 16,305,312     $ 13,307,611  
                                 
Cost of sales
    4,057,560       3,456,901       10,982,458       9,502,128  
                                 
Gross profit
    2,107,819       1,450,145       5,322,854       3,805,483  
                                 
Operating expenses
                               
Selling, general and administrative
    1,897,625       1,977,583       5,041,336       4,861,733  
Goodwill impairment charge
    -       -       -       852,000  
Gain on disposal of assets
    -       -       -       (727 )
      1,897,625       1,977,583       5,041,336       5,713,006  
                                 
Income (loss) from operations
    210,194       (527,438 )     281,518       (1,907,523 )
                                 
Interest income
    49,920       86,588       217,011       250,550  
Interest expense
    (2,530 )     (3,718 )     (8,502 )     (4,306 )
Other income (loss)
    13,681       (30,754 )     43,082       (30,565 )
      61,071       52,116       251,591       215,679  
Income (loss) before income taxes
    271,265       (475,322 )     533,109       (1,691,844 )
                                 
Income tax expense (benefit)
    22,371       24,370       70,948       (256,373 )
Net income (loss) from continuing operations
    248,894       (499,692 )     462,161       (1,435,471 )
Net income (loss) from discontinued operations
    -       (1,066,437 )     342,390       (1,850,016 )
Net gain on disposal of assets of discontinued operations
    -       156,190       (44,951 )     240,689  
Total income (loss) from discontinued operations
    -       (910,247 )     297,439       (1,609,327 )
Net income (loss)
  $ 248,894     $ (1,409,939 )   $ 759,600     $ (3,044,798 )
                                 
Net income (loss) per share:
                               
Continuing operations
  $ 0.02     $ (0.04 )   $ 0.04     $ (0.12 )
Discontinued operations
  $ 0.00     $ (0.08 )   $ 0.03     $ (0.14 )
Basic and diluted
  $ 0.02     $ (0.12 )   $ 0.07     $ (0.26 )
                                 
Weighted average shares outstanding:
                               
   Basic and diluted
    11,872,331       11,872,331       11,872,331       11,872,331  
 
 
SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 
4

 
CLEARFIELD, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
UNAUDITED
Nine Months Ended June 30, 2008
   
Common stock
   
Additional
paid-in
   
Accumulated other comprehensive
   
Accumulated
   
Total shareholders’
 
   
Shares
   
Amount
   
Capital
   
loss
   
deficit
   
equity
 
                                     
Balance at September 30, 2007
    11,872,331       118,723       52,037,207       -       (39,943,243 )     12,212,687  
Stock based compensation expense
    -       -       11,814       -       -       11,814  
Net income
    -       -       -       -       395,368       395,368  
Balance at December 31, 2007
    11,872,331       118,723       52,049,021       -       (39,547,875 )     12,619,869  
Stock based compensation expense
    -       -       13,721       -       -       13,721  
Unrealized loss on available for sale securities
    -       -       -       (164,000 )     -       (164,000 )
Net income
    -       -       -       -       115,338       115,338  
Comprehensive loss
    -       -       -       -       -       (48,662 )
Balance at March 31, 2008
    11,872,331       118,723       52,062,742       (164,000 )     (39,432,537 )     12,584,928  
Stock based compensation expense
    -       -       13,723       -       -       13,723  
Unrealized loss on available for sale securities
    -       -       -       (100,000 )     -       (100,000 )
Net income
    -       -       -       -       248,894       248,894  
Comprehensive income
    -       -       -       -       -       148,894  
Balance at June 30, 2008
    11,872,331     $ 118,723     $ 52,076,465       (264,000 )   $ (39,183,643 )   $ 12,747,545  
 
 
SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
 
5


CLEARFIELD, INC.
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
UNAUDITED
   
Nine Months Ended June 30,
 
   
2008
   
2007
 
             
Cash flow from operating activities
           
Net income (loss)
  $ 759,600     $ (3,044,798 )
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
               
Depreciation and amortization
    393,140       478,206  
Deferred taxes
    66,847       (259,473 )
Gain on disposal of assets
    55,251       78,935  
Stock based compensation
    39,258       29,018  
Goodwill impairment charge
    -       852,000  
Severance accrual
    -       397,481  
Lease termination accrual
    (362,028 )     496,153  
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
               
Accounts receivable, net
    12,499       151,502  
Inventories
    (146,226 )     194,352  
Prepaid expenses and other
    (72,659 )     35,051  
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
    118,631       63,521  
  Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
    864,313       (528,052 )
                 
Cash flow from investing activities
               
Purchases of property and equipment
    (1,829,353 )     (434,061 )
Proceeds from sale of assets
    1,451,624       615,381  
Purchase of available for sale securities
    (3,675,000 )     (8,425,000 )
Sale of available for sale securities
    3,200,000       8,575,000  
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
    (852,729 )     331,320  
                 
Cash flow from financing activities
               
Repayment of long-term debt
    (53,484 )     (19,486 )
Withdrawal of bond reserve funds, net
    -       40,836  
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
    (53,484 )     21,350  
                 
Foreign currency translation
    -       30,153  
                 
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents
    (41,900 )     (145,229 )
                 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
    3,304,645       1,754,335  
                 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
  $ 3,262,745     $ 1,609,106  
                 
Supplemental cash flow information:
               
Cash paid during the period for:
               
Interest
  $ 8,502     $ 45,142  
Income taxes
    4,101       3,100  


SEE ACCOMPANYING NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
 
6


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
Note 1.  Basis of Presentation
 
The accompanying unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for interim financial statements and with the instructions of Regulation S-K as they apply to smaller reporting companies. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America for complete financial statements. For further information, refer to the financial statements and footnotes thereto included in the Company’s transition report on Form 10-KSB for the period ended September 30, 2007.
 
In the opinion of management, all estimates and adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. Certain reclassifications of previously reported amounts have been made to conform that presentation to the current period presentation.
 
In the Transition Report for the period ended September 30, 2007, the Company restated its previously issued consolidated financial statements as of and for the years ending March 31, 2007 and 2006. These restatements resulted in a change in the classification of investments in auction rate securities, previously classified as cash and cash equivalents, to available for sale securities for each of the periods presented in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet and statements of cash flows. The Statement of Cash Flows for the nine months ended June 30, 2008 reflects our investments in conformity with the appropriate classifications as available for sale securities.
 
In preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts of assets and liabilities and related revenues and expenses during the reporting periods.  Actual results could differ from the estimates used by management.

Effective January 2, 2008 the Company merged its sole subsidiary APA Cables and Networks, Inc. into the Company (the “Parent – Subsidiary Merger”) and changed the name of the Company from APA Enterprises, Inc. to Clearfield, Inc. Since the Parent – Subsidiary Merger on January 2, 2008, the Company has no subsidiaries. For periods prior to January 2, 2008 the consolidated financial statements represent all companies of which Clearfield, Inc. directly or indirectly had majority ownership or otherwise controlled. Significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. The Company's consolidated financial statements include the accounts of wholly-owned subsidiaries of Clearfield, Inc.
 
Note 2.  Net Income (Loss) Per Share
 
Basic and diluted income (loss) per common share is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during each period. Diluted income (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted-average number of common shares and common equivalent shares outstanding during each period.

Common stock options and warrants to purchase 416,900 and 578,490 shares of common stock with a weighted average exercise price of $1.39 and $2.51 were outstanding at June 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively, but were excluded from calculating diluted net loss per share because they were antidilutive.

 
Note 3.  Discontinued Operations
 
The Optronics business segment (GaN products) continued to experience lower than expected demand for its products and services during the year ended March 31, 2007 and continued to record operating losses. This caused management to critically evaluate the long term viability of the business and after careful deliberation elected to cease operations and discontinue the business. As a result of the discontinuation of GaN products and the logistics and time constraints for APACN’s fiber patch cords, India was no longer a viable sourcing option and actions were taken to control ongoing costs and recover the investment in the Company’s Indian subsidiary. In addition, the Company elected to close its Blaine, Minnesota facility because it was primarily dedicated to the Optronics segment.

 
7


Blaine Facility

On October 30, 2007 the Company purchased its previous corporate headquarters in Blaine, Minnesota for $1,500,000 under the provisions of its option to purchase as stated in its lease with Jain-Olsen Properties. The Company, as owner of the building, canceled the lease to itself. The lease was scheduled to run through November of 2009. The elimination of the lease resulted in the elimination of approximately $342,000 of accrued obligations related to this lease in conjunction with the discontinuation of the Optronics segment recorded during the fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2007 and was taken into income during the three months ending December 31, 2007. On the same day, October 30, 2007, the Company sold the land and building for $1,450,000 incurring a loss of $50,000.

Aberdeen Facility

On October 1, 2007 the Company entered into a lease agreement for its Aberdeen, South Dakota facility which allows the tenant first opportunity to purchase the building over the upcoming three year period.

Prior Year

Discontinued operations for the nine month period ended June 30, 2008 consisted of income of approximately $297,000.  For the comparable nine month period ended June 30, 2007 the Company incurred losses in the operations and asset disposals of APA India and APA Optics for a total of approximately $1,609,000.

 
Note 4.  Severance Agreement
 
Effective June 28, 2007 Anil K. Jain ceased to be Chief Executive Officer (principal executive officer), Chief Financial Officer (principal financial officer), and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Company.
 
Pursuant to the terms of an Amended and Restated Agreement Regarding Employment/Compensation Upon Change In Control dated September 15, 2005, Dr. Jain was being paid his salary as of the date of termination of employment ($190,000 per year) for 24 months after the date of termination of his employment, payable quarterly.  As a result, the Company has recorded a severance charge in the statement of operations during the transition period ended September 30, 2007, the short term portion of the liability is included in accrued compensation and the long term portion of the liability is included in other long term liabilities. This severance provision applies notwithstanding the absence of a "change of control”.
 
 
Note  5. Marketable Securities and Long-Term Investments
 

Our long term investment portfolio consists of $3.3 million of Auction Rate Securities (ARS), with contractual maturities between 22 and 35 years. The ARS held by us are primarily backed by student loans, are over-collateralized, and are insured by and guaranteed by the United States Federal Department of Education. In addition, all ARS held by us are rated by the major independent rating agencies as either AAA or Aaa. Most of these auction rate securities were scheduled to reset every 7 to 28 days through a Dutch Auction process. The auctions have historically provided a liquid market for these securities as investors could readily sell their investments at auction. As of February 28, 2008, ARS have experienced failed auctions, due to sell orders exceeding buy orders. These failures are not believed to be a credit issue, but rather caused by a lack of liquidity due to pressure in other segments of the securities markets. Under the contractual terms, the issuer is typically obligated to pay penalty interest rates should an auction fail. The funds associated with failed auctions are not expected to be accessible until one of the following occurs: a successful auction occurs, the issuer redeems the issue, a buyer is found outside of the auction process or the underlying securities have matured. We determined that no other-than-temporary impairment losses existed as of June 30, 2008. However, if the issuer of the ARS is unable to successfully close future auctions or does not redeem the ARS, or the United States government fails to support its guaranty of the obligations, we may be required to adjust the carrying value of the ARS and record other-than-temporary impairment charges in future periods, which could materially affect our results of operations and financial condition.
 
At June 30, 2008 there was insufficient observable ARS market information available to determine fair value of our investments. Therefore, we estimated fair value by using a discounted cash flow model with factors including tax status, credit quality, duration, levels of federal guarantees and likelihood of redemption.  Based on this analysis we recorded an unrealized loss of $100,000 during the three months ended June 30, 2008 related to our ARS investments and have classified the investments as long-term on our balance sheet as of June 30, 2008.  There was no tax impact due to our net operating loss position.  We believe this unrealized loss primarily attributable to the limited liquidity of these investments, and it is our intent to hold these investments long enough to avoid realizing any significant loss.  Nonetheless, if uncertainties in the credit and capital market continue, if these markets further deteriorate, or if we no longer have the ability to hold these investments, we may be required to recognize other-than-temporary impairment charges.
 
 
8

 
Note 6.  Warrants and Stock Based Compensation
 
Commencing April 1, 2006, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 123R, “Share-Based Payment” (“SFAS 123R”), which requires all share-based payments, including grants of stock options, to be recognized in the income statement as an operating expense, based on their fair values over the requisite service period.
 
During the nine month period ended June 30, 2008 the Company granted 20,000 stock options to non-employee directors with a six year term and an exercise price of $0.96.  The fair value of the options granted was $.54 per share.
 
The Company recorded $13,723 and $9,544 of related compensation expense for the three month periods ended June 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  The Company recorded $39,258 and $29,018 of related compensation expense for the nine month period ended June 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively. This expense is included in selling, general and administrative expense.  There was no tax benefit from recording this non-cash expense.  As of June 30, 2008, $109,469 of total unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested awards is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 3.67 years.
 
In April of 2003, 350,000 warrants were issued at an exercise price of $3.00 per share; on June 30, 2008 they were unexercised and expired.
 
 
Note 7.  Inventories
 
Inventories consist of the following as of:
 
   
June 30, 2008
   
September 30, 2007
 
Raw materials
  $ 1,562,531     $ 1,422,374  
Work-in-progress
    24,794       50,468  
Finished goods
    154,183       122,440  
    $ 1,741,508     $ 1,595,282  
 
 
Note 8.  Major Customer Concentration
 
Two customers comprised approximately 22% of total sales for the nine months ended June 30, 2008 and these same two customers comprised 18% of accounts receivable. Two customers comprised 23% of total sales for nine months ended June 30, 2007 and two customers accounted for 22% of accounts receivable, of which one was part of the 23% of total sales.

 
Note 9.  Accounting Pronouncements
 
 
New Accounting Pronouncements
 
 
In May 2008, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 162, The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. SFAS No. 162 identifies the sources of accounting principles and provides entities with a framework for selecting the principles used in preparation of financial statements that are presented in conformity with GAAP. The current GAAP hierarchy has been criticized because it is directed to the auditor rather than the entity, it is complex, and it ranks FASB Statements of Financial Accounting Concepts, which are subject to the same level of due process as FASB Statements of Financial Accounting Standards, below industry practices that are widely recognized as generally accepted but that are not subject to due process. The Board believes the GAAP hierarchy should be directed to entities because it is the entity (not its auditors) that is responsible for selecting accounting principles for financial statements that are presented in conformity with GAAP. The adoption of FASB 162 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's financial position.
 
 
9

 
On February 15, 2007, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities — Including an Amendment of FASB No. 115. This standard permits an entity to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value. The fair value option established by SFAS No. 159 permits all entities to choose to measure eligible items at fair value at specified election dates. SFAS No. 159 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. The Company is currently evaluating the impact this pronouncement will have on its consolidated financial position or results of operations.

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements. SFAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurement but does not require any new fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007 and interim periods within those fiscal years. However on February 12, 2008, the FASB issued proposed FSP FAS 157-2 which delayed the effective date of SFAS 157 for all nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities, except those that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis (at least annually). This FSP partially defers the effective date of SFAS 157 to fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008, and interim periods within those fiscal years for items within the scope of this FSP.  We will adopt SFAS 157, except as it applies to those nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities as noted in proposed FSP FAS 157-2, on October 1, 2008 and are evaluating the impact this pronouncement will have on our consolidated financial position or results of operations, especially as it relates to our auction rate securities.

On December 4, 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (Revised 2007), Business Combinations. SFAS  No. 141R will significantly change the accounting for business combinations. Under SFAS 141R, an acquiring entity will be required to recognize all the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a transaction at the acquisition-date fair value with limited exceptions. SFAS No. 141R will change the accounting treatment for certain specific items. SFAS No. 141R also includes a substantial number of new disclosure requirements. SFAS No. 141R applies prospectively to business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning on or after December 15, 2008. Earlier adoption is prohibited. This statement will only have an impact if we execute applicable transactions after the effective date.

On December 4, 2007, the FASB issued FASB Statement No. 160, Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements – An Amendment of ARB No. 51. Statement 160 establishes new accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. SFAS No. 160 also includes expanded disclosure requirements regarding the interests of the parent and its noncontrolling interest. SFAS No. 160 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods with those fiscal years, beginning on or after December 15, 2008. Earlier adoption is prohibited. This statement will only have an impact if we execute applicable transactions after the effective date.




 
Note 10.  Certain Relationships and Transactions
 
India Facility.  Prior to June 28, 2007, Kul B. Jain, brother of our former chief executive officer, Anil K. Jain, was a director of our APA Optronics (India) Private Limited subsidiary that was established in fiscal 2005.  Kul B. Jain was paid approximately $250 per month in this position. He was not an employee of APA Optronics (India) or Clearfield, Inc. (formerly APA Enterprises, Inc.).  On June 28, 2007, we sold all of our interest in our Indian subsidiary to an entity controlled by Anil K. Jain, our former chief executive officer, on terms deemed by the independent directors to be fair and reasonable to the Company.  The purchase price of $500,000 is payable over five years and is secured by pledges of stock and Dr. Jain’s payments under his separation agreement, as well as by a guarantee from Dr. Jain.
 
 
10


ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OR PLAN OF OPERATION
 
Statements in this Report about future sales prospects and other matters to occur in the future are forward looking statements and are subject to uncertainties due to many factors, many of which are beyond our control. These factors include, but are not limited to, the continued development of our products, acceptance of those products by potential customers, our ability to sell such products at a profitable price, and our ability to fund our operations. For further discussion regarding these factors, see “Factors That May Influence Future Results.”
 
OVERVIEW
 
On January 2, 2008, Clearfield, Inc., formerly known as APA Enterprises, Inc., consolidated its sole subsidiary APA Cables & Networks, Inc., (APACN) into the parent company, Clearfield, Inc. Since the discontinuation of the Optronics business, the operations of the Company consist solely of the operations of APACN.
 
The Company focuses on highly configurable products for telecommunications customers, primarily related to cabling management requirements of the Fiber-to-the-Home (“FTTH”) marketplace and in designing and terminating custom cable assemblies for commercial and industrial original equipment manufacturers (“OEM’s”).  Over the past four years the Company has expanded its product offerings and broadened its customer base. We continue to see positive trends in the markets we serve and believe our solid reputation of quality service and competitive and innovative product line which will permit us achieve our growth plans.
 
Management periodically conducts a critical review of its business operations.  During the review of the Optronics business segment it became clear that the scale of the business was not capable of generating a positive income or cash flow. Therefore, management took the necessary steps to eliminate any further losses and recommended to the Board of Directors (“BOD”) to discontinue operations during the three months ended June 30, 2007. The BOD accepted the recommendations and the Company moved forward to recognize the costs of closing the Optronics business and the related costs of closing the Blaine facility.
 
As a result the discontinuation of GaN products and due to the logistics and time constraints for fiber patch cords, the Board of Directors determined that India was no longer a viable sourcing option and actions were taken to control ongoing costs and recover the investment in the Company’s India subsidiary. On June 28, 2007, the Company sold APA Optronics (India) Private Limited ("APA India") to an entity owned by the former Chief Executive Officer of the Company, Dr. Anil K. Jain.
 
Dr. Anil K. Jain resigned as Chief Executive Officer (principal executive officer), Chief Financial Officer (principal financial officer), and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Company effective June 28, 2007. His resignation triggered an agreement that requires payment of his then current salary ($190,000 per year) for 24 months after the date of termination of his employment. As a result, the Company has recorded a severance charge of $397,481 in the statement of operations during the transition period ended September 30, 2007. The balance of this liability as of June 30, 2008 is $198,818, is all recorded as short-term and included in accrued compensation.
 

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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2008 VS. THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2007
 
REVENUE
 
The Company had revenues of $6,165,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2008 compared to revenues of $4,907,000 for the comparable period in 2007, an increase of 26% or $1,258,000. This increase is the result of growth of existing customer sales. Key to the continuing positive results is strong acceptance of the Company’s Fieldsmart product line within broadband service providers deploying Fiber To The Home (FTTH) networks.
 
GROSS PROFIT AND COST OF SALES
 
Gross profit increased $658,000, or 45%, to $2,108,000 compared to $1,450,000 for the same quarter in 2007.  Gross profit as a percent of revenue was 34% in the current quarter as compared to 30% in the same quarter of 2007.  The increase in margin percentage reflects on the results of ongoing programs to reduce the cost of products through a combination of product re-design, process improvement, global sourcing of components, and outside manufacturing.
 
The Company anticipates gross margins and cost of sales for the upcoming quarter comparable to the three months ended June 30, 2008.
 
SELLING, GENERAL, AND ADMINISTRATIVE
 
Consolidated selling, general, and administrative (S, G & A) expenses during the three months ended June 30, 2008 were $1,898,000 or 31% of sales compared to $1,978,000 or 40% of sales in the same quarter of 2007, a decrease of 4% or $80,000. This change is the result of changes in staffing, sales commissions and bonuses.
 
INCOME (LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS
 
The Company recorded income of $210,000, for the period ended June 30, 2008 compared to a loss of $527,000 for the comparable quarter for 2007.  The increase in income is attributable to increased sales, improved gross margins, and the elimination of unprofitable operations.
 
OTHER INCOME AND EXPENSE
 
Other income and expense during the three months ended June 30, 2008 were $61,000 compared to $52,000 for the comparable period in 2007. The major component of income is interest earned on excess cash and long term investments which decreased by $37,000.The Company leased its Aberdeen building adding income of approximately $13,000 during the three months ended June 30, 2008. The Company also wrote down the cash surrender value of a life insurance policy to its redemption value incurring expense of $30,000 during the three months ended June 30, 2007.
 
NET INCOME (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS
 
The net income from continuing operations for the quarter ended June 30, 2008 was $249,000 or $0.02 per basic and diluted share compared to a loss of $500,000, or $0.04 per basic and diluted share, in the comparable period in 2007.
 
INCOME (LOSS) FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
 
There was no income from discontinued operations for the three months ended June 30, 2008. In the comparable period for 2007, $910,000 of loses were recorded all related to the Optronics business of which $156,000 was related to gain on the disposal of assets.
 

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NET INCOME (LOSS)
 
The net income for the quarter ended June 30, 2008 was $249,000 or $0.02 per basic and diluted share compared to a loss of $1,410,000, or $0.12 per basic and diluted share, in the comparable period in 2007.
 

 
NINE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2008 VS. NINE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2007
 
REVENUE
 
The Company had consolidated revenues of $16,305,000 for the nine months ended June 30, 2008 compared to revenues of $13,308,000 for the comparable nine month period ended June 30 2007, an increase of 23% or $2,997,000. This increase is the result of growth of existing customer sales and products.
 
GROSS PROFIT AND COST OF SALES
 
Gross profit increased $1,518,000, or 40%, to $5,323,000 compared to $3,805,000 for the comparable period ended June 30, 2007.  Gross profit as a percent of revenue was 33% in the current quarter as compared to 29% in the same comparable period of 2007.  The increase in margin percentage reflects on the results of ongoing programs to reduce the cost of products through a combination of product re-design, new product introduction at higher margins, process improvement, global sourcing of components and outside manufacturing.
 
SELLING, GENERAL, AND ADMINISTRATIVE
 
Consolidated S, G, & A expenses during the nine months ended June 30, 2008 were $5,041,000 31% of net sales, compared to $4,862,000, 37% of net sales, for the same nine months ended June 30, 2007, an increase of approximately $180,000 or 4%.
 
GOODWILL
 
For the nine month period ended June 30, 2008 the Company did not incur any charges to Goodwill. In the comparable period for 2007 the Company completed its annual assessment of Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. As result of the assessment the Company recognized a non-cash, pre-tax impairment charge of $852,000 ($519,717 after tax).  The Company will conduct a similar assessment in the fourth quarter ended September 30, 2008.
 
INCOME (LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS
 
The Company recorded income of $282,000, for the period ended June 30, 2008 compared to a loss of $1,908,000 for the comparable period for 2007.  This is an increase in income from operations of $2,189,000. The increase in income is attributable to increased sales, improved gross margins, and the elimination of unprofitable operations. Adjusting for the goodwill impairment charge, the loss for 2007 would have been approximately $1,055,000.
 
OTHER INCOME AND EXPENSE
 
Other income increased $36,000 earning $252,000 for the nine months ended June 30, 2008 compared to $216,000 for the comparable period in 2007. The major component of income is interest earned on excess cash and long term investments which was $217,000 for 2008 compared to $251,000 for the same period in 2007. This decline in interest income is attributable to a decline in interest rates. The balance of the increase is from rent received from leasing our Aberdeen, South Dakota facility of approximately $43,000. In June 2007 the Company also wrote down the cash surrender value of a life insurance policy to its redemption value incurring expense of $30,000.
 
NET INCOME (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS
 
The net income from continuing operations for the nine months ended June 30, 2008 was $462,000 or $0.04 per basic and diluted share compared to a loss of $1,435,000, or $0.12 per basic and diluted share, in the comparable period in 2007.
 

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INCOME (LOSS) FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
 
Income from discontinued operations for the nine months ended June 30, 2008 was $297,000 this was composed of a net loss of $56,000 on the purchase and sale of the Blaine building and the elimination of future lease obligations for the building of approximately $353,000. In the comparable period for 2007, The Company recorded a loss of $1,609,000, all related to the Optronics business of which $240,000 was related to gain on the disposal of assets.
 
NET INCOME (LOSS)
 
The net income for the nine months ended June 30, 2008 was $760,000 or $0.06 per basic and diluted share compared to a loss of $3,045,000, or $0.26 per basic and diluted share, in the comparable period in 2007.
 
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
 
The Company’s cash and cash equivalents were $3,263,000 at June 30, 2008, compared to $3,305,000 at September 30, 2007. The reasons for the decrease are described below under the captions “Operating Activities”, “Investing Activities” and “Financing Activities”.
 
We believe we have sufficient funds for operations for at least the next twelve months.
 
Operating Activities
 
Net cash provided by operating activities from operations for the nine month period ended June 30, 2008 was $864,000. This cash inflow was attributable primarily to income of $760,000, depreciation of $393,000 and an increase of accounts payable $119,000 and offset by increase in inventories of $146,000. In addition the purchase and subsequent sale of the Blaine building resulted in a reversal of the remaining lease termination accrual of $362,000
 
Net cash consumed by operating activities from operations for the nine month period ended June 30, 2007 was $528,000. This cash outflow was attributable primarily to a loss of $3,045,000, increase in deferred taxes of $260,000. This was offset by depreciation of $478,000, a reduction in inventories of $194,000 and accounts receivable of $152,000. In addition, the accrual of severance for Anil Jain of $397,000 and the accrual for the lease termination associated with the Blaine Facility of $496,000 along with the Goodwill impairment charge of $852,000 also offset the cash outflow.
 
Investing Activities
 
We invest our excess cash in money market accounts and Student Loan-backed Auction Rate Securities (ARS) to obtain a market rate return on our excess cash.
 
During the nine month period ended June 30, 2008 we utilized cash to purchase $3,675,000 of securities and received $3,200,000 on the sale of like securities. During the same period we utilized $1,829,000 of which $1,500,000 was to purchase the Blaine building and the balance $329,000 was used to purchase capital equipment, enterprise resource planning software and implementation services. We received cash of approximately $1,450,000 as the proceeds on the subsequent sale of the Blaine building.
 
In the nine months ended June 30, 2007 we utilized cash to purchase $8,425,000 of securities and received $8,575,000 on the sale of like securities as part of our excess cash investment program. In addition we purchased equipment of $434,000 and sold equipment for $615,000.
 
Financing Activities
 
Net cash used in financing activities, consisting of long term debt payment for the nine months ended June 30, 2008 totaled $53,000. For the nine month period ended June 30, 2007 long term debt payment was $19,000 in addition we received a net of $41,000 from an escrow account these funds were applied to interest expense associated with the overall reduction of debt for the Aberdeen building during the nine month.
 
 
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FACTORS THAT MAY INFLUENCE FUTURE RESULTS
 
The statements contained in this Report on Form 10-QSB that are not purely historical are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Company’s expectations, hopes, beliefs, anticipations, commitments, intentions and strategies regarding the future. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements contained in Management's Discussion or Plan of Operation. Actual results could differ from those projected in any forward-looking statements for the reasons, among others, detailed below. We believe that many of the risks detailed here are part of doing business in the industry in which we compete and will likely be present in all periods reported. The fact that certain risks are characteristic to the industry does not lessen the significance of the risk. The forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this Report as Form 10-QSB and we assume no obligation to update the forward-looking statements or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Readers of this Report and prospective investors should also review the Risk Factors set forth in our Report on Form 10-KSB for the transition period ended September 30, 2007. The following updates our Risk Factors:
 
Marketable Securities and Long-Term Investments
 
Due to lack of liquidity, we may not be able to liquidate our auction rate securities (ARS) when needed or may not realize the full value of these investments.

Our long term investment portfolio consists of $3.3 million of Auction Rate Securities (ARS), with contractual maturities between 22 and 35 years. The ARS held by us are primarily backed by student loans and are over-collateralized, and are insured by and guaranteed by the United States Federal Department of Education. In addition, all ARS held by us are rated by the major independent rating agencies as either AAA or Aaa. Most of these auction rate securities were scheduled to reset every 7 to 28 days through a Dutch Auction process. The auctions have historically provided a liquid market for these securities as investors could readily sell their investments at auction. As of February 28, 2008, ARS have experienced failed auctions, due to sell orders exceeding buy orders. These failures are not believed to be a credit issue, but rather caused by a lack of liquidity due to pressure in other segments of the securities markets. Under the contractual terms, the issuer is typically obligated to pay penalty interest rates should an auction fail. The funds associated with failed auctions, are not expected to be accessible until one of the following occurs: a successful auction occurs, the issuer redeems the issue, a buyer is found outside of the auction process or the underlying securities have matured. We determined that no other-than-temporary impairment losses existed as of June 30, 2008. However, if the issuer of the ARS is unable to successfully close future auctions or does not redeem the ARS, or the United States government fails to support its guaranty of the obligations, we may be required to adjust the carrying value of the ARS and record other-than-temporary impairment charges in future periods, which could materially affect our results of operations and financial condition.
 

 
APPLICATION OF CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
Our significant accounting policies are described in Note A to the Consolidated Financial Statements in our Transition Report for the transition period ended September 30, 2007.  The accounting policies used in preparing our interim 2008 Consolidated Financial Statements are the same as those described in our Annual Report except for the following policy which has been added.
 

The Company accounts for marketable securities in accordance with SFAS No. 115, Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities.  The Company determines the appropriate classification of all marketable securities as held-to-maturity, available-for-sale or trading at the time of purchase, and re-evaluates such classifications as of each balance sheet date.  At June 30, 2008 the Company’s investments in auction rate securities (ARS) were classified as available-for-sale securities. ARS investments are adjusted to an estimate of fair value.   In the absence of an active market for its ARS the Company has utilized a financial model to arrive at a representative valuation. The model takes into consideration, the securities underlying rating, including that the underlying assets are reinsured by the Department of Education in accordance with FFELP, term of the investment and interest rates. These values were adjusted in the model to reflect liquidity and returns from comparable investment choices that are in an active and liquid market. We make an assessment regarding balance sheet classification and whether declines in market value are other-than-temporary based on the credit standing of the issuer and our intent and ability to hold the securities. The market for ARS is rapidly changing and the Company continues to monitor the financial markets to ensure the assets are properly valued.
 

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ITEM 3 A (T).  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
 
 
(a)
Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures.  The Company’s chief executive officer and chief financial officer have evaluated the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-14(e)) as of the end of the period covered by this report and determined the controls and procedures were ineffective. We have identified certain material weaknesses related to the Company and addressed them as follows:
 
 
·
The Company did not maintain effective controls over the accounting for certain auction rate securities. This oversight was discovered in the transition period ended September 30, 2007 and the financial statements were restated accordingly.
 
 
·
The Company did not maintain effective controls to ensure that it is regularly checking for appropriate compliance on all GAAP and SEC reporting matters as they change or become updated.
 

 
(b)
Changes in internal controls over financial reporting  There were no changes in the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting that occurred during the Company’s last fiscal quarter that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s control over financial reporting.

Remediation Efforts Related to Material Weaknesses

The Company’s Board of Directors (BOD), in the first quarter of the fiscal year, appointed an Investment Committee, composed of BOD members, to provide oversight on matters of banking relationships and investing of cash. In addition the Company has approved a formal investment policy. Company management is utilizing the expertise of its professional investment advisor to provide insight into an appropriate policy.

Management recognizes it cannot be expert in all of the complex matters of financial reporting as it is a constantly changing and technical environment. During the third quarter of the fiscal year we procured subscriptions to publications and services that provide regular updates regarding SEC and GAAP reporting. These services include checklists to ensure the internal accounting staff has the necessary tools and resources to comply with both SEC and GAAP regulations. This service offers continuing education for the Company’s professional accounting staff.
 

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PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
 
 
None. 
 
ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
 
None.
 
ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
 
None.
 
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
 
None.
 
ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION
 
None.
 
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS
 
Exhibit 31.1 – Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
Exhibit 31.2 – Certification required of Chief Financial Officer by Section 302 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002

Exhibit 32.1 – Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
Exhibit 32.2 – Certification required of Chief Financial Officer by Section 906 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002

 
Signatures

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

August 11, 2008



Signature: /s/ Cheryl Beranek Podzimek
Print Name: Cheryl Beranek Podzimek
Print Title: Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)
 
 
 
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