EXHIBIT 10.9
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
AGREEMENT made as of the 1st day of December 2003 by and between SAVE
THE WORLD AIR, INC. ("STWA"), a Nevada chartered corporation, and Xxxxx X.
XxXxxxxx (the "Executive").
BACKGROUND
A. STWA desires to employ the Executive and the Executive is
willing to serve on the terms and conditions herein provided.
B. In order to effect the foregoing, the parties hereto desire to
enter into an employment agreement on the terms and conditions set forth below.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the respective
covenants and agreements of the parties contained herein, and intending to be
legally bound hereby, the parties hereto agree as follows:
1. DEFINITIONS AND SPECIAL PROVISIONS. Each capitalized word and
term used herein shall have the meaning ascribed to it in the glossary appended
hereto, unless the context in which such word or term is used otherwise clearly
requires. Such glossary is incorporated herein by reference and made a part
hereof.
2. EMPLOYMENT. STWA hereby agrees to employ the Executive, and
the Executive hereby agrees to serve STWA, on the terms and conditions set forth
herein.
3. TERM OF AGREEMENT. The Executive's employment under this
Agreement shall commence on the date hereof and, except as otherwise provided
herein, shall continue until December 31, 2007; provided, however, that
commencing on December 31, 2007 and each anniversary thereafter, the term of
this Agreement shall automatically be extended for one additional year beyond
the term otherwise established unless, prior to such date, STWA or the Executive
shall have given a Notice of Non-Extension.
4. POSITION AND DUTIES. The Executive shall serve as Executive
Vice President/Business Development of STWA and he shall have such
responsibilities, duties and authority as may, from time to time, be generally
associated with such position and or as specifically detailed in the company's
official "Position Description." He shall also serve as a member of STWA's Board
of Directors and upon any committees thereof as requested by the Board. In
addition, the Executive shall serve in such capacity, with respect to each
Subsidiary or affiliated company, as the Board of Directors of each such
Subsidiary or affiliated company shall designate from time to time. During the
term of this Agreement, he shall devote substantially all of his working time
and efforts to the business and affairs of STWA, the Subsidiaries and affiliated
companies; provided, however, that nothing herein shall be construed as
precluding him from devoting a reasonable amount of time to civic, charitable,
trade association and similar activities that do not represent conflicts and are
not otherwise in any way detrimental to STWA.
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5. COMPENSATION AND RELATED MATTERS.
BASE COMPENSATION. During the period of the Executive's employment
hereunder, STWA shall pay to him annual base compensation as follows:
For the period from December 1, 2003 to December 31, 2004 at an annual
rate not less than $153,600.00;
The Board(s) of Directors of STWA shall periodically review the
Executive's employment performance, in accordance with policies
generally in effect from time to time, for possible merit or
cost-of-living increases in such base compensation. Except for a
reduction, should such reduction occur, which is proportionate to a
company-wide reduction in executive pay, the annual base compensation
paid to the Executive in any period shall not be less than the annual
base compensation paid to him in any prior period. The frequency and
manner of payment of such base compensation shall be in accordance with
STWA's executive payroll practices from time to time in effect. Nothing
herein shall be construed as precluding the Executive from entering
into any salary reduction or deferral plan or arrangement during the
term of this Agreement; provided, however, that his base compensation
shall be determined without regard to any such salary reduction or
deferral for purposes of calculating the amount of any compensation and
benefits to which he or his surviving spouse may be entitled under
Paragraph 6, 7, 10, or 11 following his termination of employment. The
amounts set forth in the first sentence of this subparagraph (a) shall
be pro rated to the extent such period is less than a year.
(a) INCENTIVE COMPENSATION. During the period of the
Executive's employment hereunder, he shall be entitled to participate
in all incentive plans, stock option plans, and similar arrangements as
may be in effect and maintained by STWA for executive officers on a
basis and at award levels consistent and commensurate with his position
and duties hereunder.
(b) EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS AND OTHER PLANS OR
ARRANGEMENTS. The Executive shall be entitled to participate in all
Employee Benefit Plans of STWA that either, are in effect at present or
that may be adopted in the future. In addition, he shall be entitled to
participate in and enjoy any other plans and arrangements which provide
for sick leave, vacation, sabbatical, or personal days, club
memberships and dues, education payment or reimbursement,
business-related seminars, and similar fringe benefits provided to or
for the executive officers of STWA from time to time. Notwithstanding
the foregoing, Executive shall be entitled to at least four (4) weeks
vacation per calendar year during each year of employment. Such
vacation shall be prorated during the year 2003 based on the date of
this Agreement.
(c) EXPENSES. During the period of the Executive's
employment hereunder, he shall be entitled to receive prompt
reimbursement for all reasonable and customary expenses, including
transportation expenses, incurred by him in
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performing services hereunder in accordance with the general policies
and procedures established by STWA.
(d) AUTOMOBILE. STWA shall provide for an unaccountable
monthly automobile allowance of not less than $900.00. The company may,
at its discretion, provide an automobile, mutually acceptable, to the
Executive for his exclusive use.
6. TERMINATION BY REASON OF DISABILITY.
(a) IN GENERAL. In the event the Executive becomes unable
to perform his duties on a full-time basis by reason of the occurrence
of his Disability and, within 30 days after a Notice of Termination is
given, he shall not have returned to the full-time performance of such
duties, his employment may be terminated by STWA.
(b) COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS. In the event of the
termination of the Executive's employment under Subparagraph (a), the
term of this Agreement shall continue for one year after the Date of
Termination, and STWA shall pay or provide the compensation and
benefits set forth below:
(1) The Executive shall be paid an amount per
annum equal to the greater of (i) his highest base
compensation (including the car allowance provided
for in Section 5(e)) received during one of the two
calendar years immediately preceding the calendar
year in which the Date of Termination occurs, or (ii)
his base compensation (including the car allowance
provided for in Section 5(e)) in effect immediately
prior to the Date of Termination (or prior to any
reduction which entitled him to terminate his
employment for Good Reason), over a period of one
year beginning with such Date of Termination. The
frequency and manner of payment of such amounts shall
be in accordance with STWA's executive payroll
practices from time to time in effect.
(2) The Executive shall be paid an amount equal
to the higher of the aggregate bonus (es) paid to him
with respect to one of the two years immediately
preceding the year in which the Date of Termination
occurs. Such amount shall be paid to him in cash on
the first anniversary date of the Date of
Termination.
(3) The Executive shall be paid an amount equal
to the highest annual contribution made on his behalf
(other than his own salary reduction contributions)
to each tax-qualified and non-qualified Defined
Contribution Plan of STWA with respect to the year in
which the Date of Termination occurs or one of the
two years immediately preceding such year. The amount
separately determined for each such plan shall be
aggregated and shall be paid to him in cash on the
first anniversary date of the Date of Termination.
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(4) The Executive shall accrue benefits equal to
the excess of (i) the aggregate retirement benefits
he would have received under the terms of each
tax-qualified and non-qualified Defined Benefit Plan
of STWA as in effect immediately prior to the Date of
Termination had he (A) continued to be employed for
one more year, and (B) received (on a pro rated
basis, as appropriate) the greater of (I) the highest
compensation taken into account under each such plan
with respect to one of the two years immediately
preceding the year in which the Date of Termination
occurs, or (II) his annualized base compensation in
effect immediately prior to the Date of Termination
(or prior to any reduction which entitled him to
terminate his employment for Good Reason), over (ii)
the retirement benefits he actually receives under
such plans. The frequency, manner and extent of
payment of such benefits shall be consistent with the
terms of the plans to which they relate and any
elections made thereunder.
(5) The Executive and his eligible dependents
shall be entitled to continue to participate at the
same aggregate benefit levels, for one year and at no
out-of-pocket or tax cost to him, in the Welfare
Benefit Plans in which he was a participant
immediately prior to the Date of Termination, to the
extent permitted under the terms of such plans and
applicable law. To the extent STWA is unable to
provide for continued participation in a Welfare
Benefit Plan, it shall provide an equivalent benefit
directly at no out-of-pocket or tax cost to him. For
purposes of the preceding two sentences, STWA shall
be deemed to have provided a benefit at no tax cost
to him if it pays an additional amount to him or on
his behalf, with respect to those benefits which
would otherwise be nontaxable to him, calculated in a
manner consistent with the provisions of Paragraph
12.
(c) ADJUSTMENT TO CERTAIN SUBPARAGRAPH (b) COMPENSATION
AND BENEFITS. Notwithstanding the provisions of Subparagraph (b)(5),
STWA's obligation to pay or fund any disability insurance premiums on
behalf of the Executive shall be suspended while his Disability
continues, provided the cessation of payment or funding does not result
in the termination of disability benefits. Any amounts otherwise due
under Subparagraph (b) shall be reduced (but not below zero) by the
dollar amount of disability benefits received by him pursuant to plans
or policies funded, directly at its cost, by STWA.
(d) EARLIER CESSATION OF CERTAIN WELFARE BENEFITS.
Notwithstanding the provisions of Subparagraph (b)(5), STWA shall not
be required to provide, at its cost, the welfare benefits covered
therein after the later of (i) the attainment by the Executive and his
spouse (if any) of age 65, or (ii) the date specified in the relevant
plan document for benefit termination (assuming that he was employed
until age 65 or the normal retirement date, if any, specified in such
document).
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(e) DEATH DURING REMAINING TERM OF AGREEMENT.
(1) In the event the Executive dies during the
remaining term of this Agreement following his
termination for Disability and he is survived by a
spouse, the compensation and benefits remaining to be
paid and provided under Subparagraph (b) shall be
unaffected by his death and shall be paid and
provided to her or on her behalf; provided, however,
that the extent of her rights to the accrued benefits
described in Subparagraph (b)(4) shall be determined
by reference to the relevant plan provisions and any
elections made under such plans; and provided
further, that STWA shall not be required to provide
continued benefits with respect to her deceased
husband; and provided further, that in no event shall
STWA be required to provide, at its cost, the other
welfare benefits described in Subparagraph (b)(5) to
such spouse and her eligible dependents after the
earlier of (i) her death, or (ii) the later of (A)
her attainment of age 65, or (B) the date specified
in the relevant plan document for benefit termination
(assuming that the Executive was employed until age
65 or the normal retirement date, if any, specified
in such document).
(2) In the event the Executive dies during the
remaining term of this Agreement following his
termination for Disability and he is not survived by
a spouse, (i) STWA shall thereafter make the
remaining payments described in Subparagraphs (b)(1)
through (b)(3) directly to his estate, (ii) the
extent of the rights of any person to the accrued
benefits described in Subparagraph (b)(4) shall be
determined by reference to the relevant plan
provisions and any elections made under such plans,
and (iii) STWA's obligation to provide continued
benefits under Subparagraph (b)(5) shall terminate.
(f) COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS UPON EXPIRATION OF
REMAINING TERM OF AGREEMENT. Upon the expiration of the remaining term
of this Agreement following the Executive's termination for Disability,
and provided his Disability then continues, he shall be entitled to
receive the compensation and benefits provided under the terms of any
long-term disability plan of STWA in effect on the Date of Termination
or, if greater, at the expiration of such remaining term. If such plan
exists, such compensation and benefits shall continue until the earlier
of (i) his death, or (ii) the later of (A) his attainment of age 65, or
(B) the date specified in the plan document for benefit termination. To
the extent STWA is unable to provide such compensation and benefits
under its long-term disability plan, if any, it shall provide
equivalent compensation and benefits directly at no out-of-pocket or
tax cost to him. For purposes of the preceding sentence, STWA shall be
deemed to have provided compensation and benefits at no tax cost to him
if it pays an additional amount to him or on his behalf, with respect
to the compensation and benefits which would otherwise be
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nontaxable to him, calculated in a manner consistent with the
provisions of Paragraph 12.
7. TERMINATION BY REASON OF DEATH.
(a) COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS TO SURVIVING SPOUSE. In the
event the Executive dies while he is employed under this Agreement and
is survived by a spouse, STWA shall pay or provide the compensation and
benefits set forth below:
(1) The surviving spouse shall be paid an amount
equal to the greater of (i) the Executive's highest
base compensation received during one of the two
calendar years immediately preceding the calendar
year in which the Date of Termination occurs, or (ii)
his base compensation in effect immediately prior to
the Date of Termination (or prior to any reduction
which entitled him to terminate his employment for
Good Reason) for a period of one year, beginning with
such Date of Termination. The frequency and manner of
payment of such amounts shall be in accordance with
STWA's executive payroll practices from time to time
in effect.
(2) The surviving spouse shall be paid an amount
equal to the highest payment made to Executive under
each incentive bonus plan of STWA with respect to one
of the two years immediately preceding the year in
which the Date of Termination occurs. Such amount
shall be paid in cash to her within 30 days after the
Date of Termination.
(3) The surviving spouse shall be paid an amount
equal to the sum of the highest annual contribution
made on the Executive's behalf (other than his own
salary reduction contributions) to each tax-qualified
and non-qualified Defined Contribution Plan of STWA
with respect to the year in which the Date of
Termination occurs or one of the two years
immediately preceding such year. Such amount shall be
paid in cash to her within 30 days after the Date of
Termination or within 30 days after such amount can
first be determined, whichever is later.
(4) Subject to the following sentence, the
surviving spouse shall be paid benefits determined by
reference to the excess of (i) the aggregate
retirement benefits the Executive would have accrued
under the terms of each tax-qualified and
non-qualified Defined Benefit Plan as in effect
immediately prior to the Date of Termination, had he
(A) continued to be employed for a period of one year
following the Date of Termination, and (B) received
(on a pro rated basis, as appropriate) the greater of
(I) the highest compensation taken into account under
each such plan with respect to one of the two years
immediately preceding the year in which
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the Date of Termination occurs, or (II) his
annualized base compensation in effect immediately
prior to the Date of Termination (or prior to any
reduction which entitled him to terminate his
employment for Good Reason), over (ii) the retirement
benefits actually determined under such plans. The
frequency, manner, and extent of payment of such
benefits shall be consistent with the terms of the
plans to which they relate and any elections made
thereunder.
(5) The surviving spouse and her eligible
dependents shall be entitled to continue to
participate at the same aggregate benefit levels, for
a period of one year following the Date of
Termination and at no out-of-pocket or tax cost to
her, in the Welfare Benefit Plans in which the
Executive was a participant immediately prior to the
Date of Termination, to the extent permitted under
the terms of such plans and applicable law; provided,
however, that STWA shall not be required to provide
continued benefits with respect to her deceased
husband; and provided further, that STWA shall not
thereafter be required to provide, at its cost, the
other welfare benefits covered by such plans to such
spouse and her eligible dependents after the earlier
of (i) her death, or (ii) the later of (A) her
attainment of age 65, or (B) the date specified in
the relevant plan document for benefit termination
(assuming the Executive was employed until age 65 or
the normal retirement date, if any, specified in such
document). To the extent STWA is unable to provide
for continued participation in a Welfare Benefit Plan
as required, it shall provide an equivalent benefit
directly at no out-of-pocket or tax cost to her. For
purposes of the preceding two sentences, STWA shall
be deemed to have provided a benefit at no tax cost
to her if it pays an additional amount to her or on
her behalf, with respect to those benefits which
would otherwise be nontaxable to her, calculated in a
manner consistent with the provisions of Paragraph
12.
(b) COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS TO ESTATE, ETC. In the
event the Executive dies while he is employed under this Agreement and
is not survived by a spouse, (i) STWA shall make the payments described
in Subparagraphs (a)(1) through (a)(3) directly to his estate, (ii) the
extent of the rights of any person to the accrued benefits described in
Subparagraph (a)(4) shall be determined by reference to the relevant
plan provisions and any elections made under such plans, and (iii)
STWA's obligation to provide benefits under Subparagraph (a)(5) shall
terminate.
8. TERMINATION BY STWA FOR CAUSE.
(a) IN GENERAL. In the event STWA intends to terminate
the Executive's employment for Cause, it shall deliver a Notice of
Termination to him which specifies a Date of Termination not less than
30 days following the
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date of such notice, unless a shorter period of notice is required by
the principal regulator of STWA or any affiliate of STWA.
(b) COMPENSATION. Within 30 days after the Executive's
termination under Subparagraph (a), STWA shall pay him, in one lump
sum, his accrued but unpaid base compensation and vacation compensation
earned through the Date of Termination.
9. TERMINATION BY THE EXECUTIVE WITHOUT GOOD REASON.
(a) IN GENERAL. In the event the Executive intends to
terminate his employment without Good Reason, he shall deliver a Notice
of Termination to STWA which specifies a Date of Termination not less
than (i) 90 days following the date of such notice, if a Change in
Control shall not have occurred, or (ii) 30 days following the date of
such notice, if a Change in Control shall have occurred.
(b) COMPENSATION. Within 30 days after the Executive's
termination under Subparagraph (a), STWA shall pay him, in one lump
sum, his accrued but unpaid base compensation and vacation compensation
earned through the Date of Termination.
10. TERMINATION BY STWA WITHOUT DISABILITY OR CAUSE.
(a) IN GENERAL. In the event STWA intends to terminate
the Executive's employment for any reason other than Disability or
Cause, it shall deliver a Notice of Termination to him which specifies
a Date of Termination not less than 90 days following the date of such
notice.
(b) COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS DURING REMAINING TERM OF
AGREEMENT. In the event of the termination of the Executive's
employment under Subparagraph (a), STWA shall pay or provide the
compensation and benefits described in Paragraph 6(b), except that all
such compensation and benefits shall be for the remaining term of this
Agreement determined in accordance with Section 3 hereof, unless a
change in control has occurred prior to such termination of employment,
in which case all such compensation and benefits shall be for a term of
three (3) years from the Date of Termination and the term of this
Agreement shall continue until all such compensation and benefits are
paid to Executive in full.
(c) ADJUSTMENT TO CERTAIN SUBPARAGRAPH (b) COMPENSATION
AND BENEFITS. In the event the Executive suffers a Disability during
the remaining term of this Agreement following the Date of Termination,
STWA's obligation to pay or fund any disability insurance premiums on
his behalf shall be suspended while his Disability continues, provided
the cessation of payment or funding does not result in the termination
of disability benefits. Any amounts described in Paragraph 6(b) and
otherwise payable under Subparagraph (b) shall be reduced (but not
below zero) by the dollar amount of disability benefits received by him
pursuant to plans or policies funded, directly at its cost, by STWA.
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(d) EARLIER CESSATION OF CERTAIN WELFARE BENEFITS.
Notwithstanding the provisions of Subparagraph (b), STWA shall not be
required to provide, at its cost, the welfare benefits covered by
Paragraph 6(b)(5) after the later of (i) the attainment by the
Executive and his spouse (if any) of age 65, or (ii) the date specified
in the relevant plan document for benefit termination (assuming that he
was employed until age 65 or the normal retirement date, if any,
specified in such document).
(e) DEATH DURING REMAINING TERM OF AGREEMENT.
(1) In the event the Executive dies during the
remaining term of this Agreement following his
termination without Disability or Cause by STWA and
he is survived by a spouse, the compensation and
benefits required to be paid and provided under
Subparagraph (b) shall be unaffected by his death and
shall be paid and provided to her or on her behalf;
provided, however, that the extent of her rights to
the accrued benefits described in Paragraph 6(b)(4)
shall be determined by reference to the relevant plan
provisions and any elections made under such plans;
and provided further, that STWA shall not be required
to provide continued benefits with respect to her
deceased husband; and provided further, that in no
event shall STWA be required to provide, at its cost,
the other welfare benefits described in Paragraph
6(b)(5) to such spouse and her eligible dependents
after the earlier of (i) her death, or (ii) the later
of (A) her attainment of age 65, or (B) the date
specified in the relevant plan document for benefit
termination (assuming that the Executive was employed
until age 65 or the normal retirement date, if any,
specified in such document).
(2) In the event the Executive dies during the
remaining term of this Agreement following his
termination without Disability or Cause and he is not
survived by a spouse, (i) STWA shall thereafter make
the remaining payments described in Paragraphs
6(b)(1) through 6(b)(3) directly to his estate, (ii)
the extent of the rights of any person to the accrued
benefits described in Paragraph 6(b)(4) shall be
determined by reference to the relevant plan
provisions and any elections made under such plans,
and (iii) STWA's obligation to provide the continued
benefits described in Paragraph 6(b)(5) shall
terminate.
11. TERMINATION BY THE EXECUTIVE FOR GOOD REASON.
(a) IN GENERAL. In the event the Executive intends to
terminate his employment for Good Reason, he shall deliver a Notice of
Termination to STWA which specifies a Date of Termination not less than
30 days following the date of such notice.
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(b) COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS DURING REMAINING TERM OF
AGREEMENT. In the event of the termination of the Executive's
employment under Subparagraph (a), STWA shall pay or provide the
compensation and benefits described in Paragraph 6(b), except that all
such compensation and benefits shall be for a term of three (3) years
from the Date of Termination and the term of this Agreement shall
continue until all such compensation and benefits are paid to Executive
in full.
(c) ADJUSTMENT TO CERTAIN SUBPARAGRAPH (b) COMPENSATION
AND BENEFITS. In the event the Executive suffers a Disability during
the remaining term of this Agreement following the Date of Termination,
STWA's obligation to pay or fund any disability insurance premiums on
his behalf shall be suspended while his Disability continues, provided
the cessation of payment or funding does not result in the termination
of disability benefits. Any amounts described in Paragraph 6(b) and
otherwise payable under Subparagraph (b) shall be reduced (but not
below zero) by the dollar amount of disability benefits received by him
pursuant to plans or policies funded, directly at its cost, by STWA.
(d) EARLIER CESSATION OF CERTAIN WELFARE BENEFITS.
Notwithstanding the provisions of Subparagraph (b), STWA shall not be
required to provide, at its cost, the welfare benefits covered by
Paragraph 6(b)(5) after the later of (i) the attainment by the
Executive and his spouse (if any) of age 65, or (ii) the date specified
in the relevant plan document for benefit termination (assuming that he
was employed until age 65 or the normal retirement date, if any,
specified in such document).
(e) DEATH DURING REMAINING TERM OF AGREEMENT.
(1) In the event the Executive dies during the
remaining term of this Agreement following his
termination for Good Reason and he is survived by a
spouse, the compensation and benefits required to be
paid and provided under Subparagraph (b) shall be
unaffected by his death and shall be paid and
provided to her or on her behalf; provided, however,
that the extent of her rights to the accrued benefits
described in Paragraph 6(b)(4) shall be determined by
reference to the relevant plan provisions and any
elections made under such plans; and provided
further, that STWA shall not be required to provide
continued benefits with respect to her deceased
husband; and provided further, that in no event shall
STWA be required to provide, at its cost, the other
welfare benefits described in Paragraph 6(b)(5) to
such spouse and her eligible dependents after the
earlier of (i) her death, or (ii) the later of (A)
her attainment of age 65, or (B) the date specified
in the relevant plan document for benefit termination
(assuming that the Executive was employed until age
65 or the normal retirement date, if any, specified
in such document).
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(2) In the event the Executive dies during the
remaining term of this Agreement following his
termination for Good Reason and he is not survived by
a spouse, (i) STWA shall thereafter make the
remaining payments described in Paragraphs 6(b)(1)
through 6(b)(3) directly to his estate, (ii) the
extent of the rights of any person to the accrued
benefits described in Paragraph 6(b)(4) shall be
determined by reference to the relevant plan
provisions and any elections made under such plans,
and (iii) STWA's obligation to provide the continued
benefits described in Paragraph 6(b)(5) shall
terminate.
12. PROVISIONS RELATING TO EXCISE TAXES.
(a) IN GENERAL. In the event the Executive becomes
liable, for any taxable year, for the payment of an Excise Tax (because
of a change in control) with respect to the compensation and benefits
payable by STWA under this Agreement or otherwise, STWA shall make one
or more Gross-Up Payments to the Executive or on his behalf. The amount
of any Gross-Up Payment shall be calculated by a certified public
accountant or other tax professional designated jointly by the
Executive and STWA. The provisions of this paragraph shall apply with
respect to the Executive's surviving spouse or estate, where relevant.
(b) METHODOLOGY FOR CALCULATION OF GROSS-UP PAYMENT. For
purposes of determining the amount of any Gross-Up Payment, the
Executive shall be deemed to pay income taxes at the highest federal,
state, and local marginal rates of tax for the calendar year in which
the Gross-Up Payment is to be made, net of the maximum reduction in
federal income tax which could be obtained from the deduction of state
and local income taxes. In the event that the Excise Tax is
subsequently determined to be less than the amount taken into account
at the time the Gross-Up Payment was made, the Executive shall repay to
STWA, at the time that the amount of such reduction in Excise Tax is
finally determined, the portion of the Gross-Up Payment attributable to
the reduction (plus a portion of the Gross-Up Payment attributable to
the Excise Tax and the federal, state, and local income taxes imposed
on the portion of the Gross-Up Payment being repaid by the Executive to
the extent such repayment results in a reduction in Excise Tax or
federal, state, or local income tax), plus interest on the amount of
such repayment. Such interest shall be calculated by using the rate in
effect under Section 1274(d)(1) of the IRC, on the date the Gross-Up
Payment was made, for debt instruments with a term equal to the period
of time which has elapsed from the date the Gross-Up Payment was made
to the date of repayment. In the event that the Excise Tax is
subsequently determined to exceed the amount taken into account at the
time the Gross-Up Payment was made (including by reason of any payment
the existence or amount of which could not be determined at the time of
the Gross-Up Payment), STWA shall make an additional Gross-Up Payment
with respect to the excess at the time the amount thereof is finally
determined, plus interest calculated in a manner similar to that
described in the preceding sentence.
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(c) TIME OF PAYMENT. Any Gross-Up Payment provided for
herein shall be paid not later than the 30th day following the payment
of any compensation or the provision of any benefit which causes such
payment to be made; provided, however, that if the amount of such
payment cannot be finally determined on or before such day, STWA shall
pay on such day an estimate of the minimum amount of such payment and
shall pay the remainder of such payment (together with interest
calculated in a manner similar to that described in Subparagraph (b))
as soon as the amount thereof can be determined. In the event that the
amount of an estimated payment exceeds the amount subsequently
determined to have been due, such excess shall constitute a loan by
STWA to the Executive, payable on the 30th day after demand by STWA
(together with interest calculated in a manner similar to that
described in Subparagraph (b)).
(d) OTHER ARRANGEMENTS. Notwithstanding the provisions of
this paragraph to the contrary, the actual amounts payable hereunder as
Gross-Up Payments shall be coordinated with any similar amounts paid to
the Executive under any other contract, plan, or arrangement.
13. FEES AND EXPENSES OF THE EXECUTIVE.
After a Change in Control and except as provided in the following
sentence, STWA shall pay, within 30 days following demand by the
Executive, all legal, accounting, actuarial, and related fees and
expenses incurred by him in connection with the enforcement of this
Agreement. An arbitration panel or a court of competent jurisdiction
shall be empowered to deny payment to the Executive of such fees and
expenses only if it determines that he instituted a proceeding
hereunder, or otherwise acted, in bad faith.
14. REDUCTION FOR COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS RECEIVED UNDER STWA
SEVERANCE POLICY, ETC. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary,
in the event the Executive, his surviving spouse, or any other person
becomes entitled to continued compensation and benefits hereunder by
reason of the Executive's termination of employment and, in addition,
compensation or similar benefits are payable under a severance policy,
program or arrangement maintained by STWA (other than retirement
plans), then the compensation or benefits otherwise payable hereunder
shall be reduced by the compensation or benefits provided under such
severance policy, program or arrangement.
15. MITIGATION. The Executive shall not be required to mitigate
the amount of any compensation or benefits which may become payable
hereunder by reason of his termination by seeking other employment or
otherwise, nor, except as otherwise provided in the following sentence
or elsewhere herein, shall the amount of any such compensation or
benefits be reduced by any compensation or benefits received by the
Executive as the result of his employment by another employer.
Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, STWA's
obligation to provide any medical and dental benefits hereunder may be
suspended, with the written concurrence of the Executive or, if
applicable, his
12
surviving spouse during any period of time that such benefits are being
provided by reason of his or her employment.
16. FUNDING OF COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS; ACCELERATION OF CERTAIN
PAYMENTS.
(a) GRANTOR TRUST. In the event (i) the Executive's
employment is terminated without Cause or he terminates his employment
for Good Reason, and (ii) and a Change in Control has occurred as of
the Date of Termination or occurs thereafter, the Executive shall have
the right to require STWA to establish a grantor trust (taxable to
STWA) and fund such trust, on an actuarially sound basis, to provide
the compensation and benefits to which he is entitled hereunder, other
than those which may be paid pursuant to the provisions of Subparagraph
(c). The specific terms of such trust shall be as agreed to by the
parties in good faith; provided, however, that the trustee shall be a
financial institution independent of STWA; and provided further, that
in no event shall STWA be entitled to withdraw funds from the trust for
its benefit, or otherwise voluntarily assign or alienate such funds,
until such time as all compensation and benefits required hereunder are
paid and provided. The determination of the extent of required funding,
including any supplemental funding in the event of adverse investment
performance of trust assets, shall be made by an actuary or a certified
public accountant retained by each party. To the extent such
professionals cannot agree on the proper level of funding, they shall
select a third such professional whose determination shall be binding
upon the parties. Notwithstanding the foregoing, STWA shall remain
liable for all compensation and benefits required to be paid or
provided hereunder.
(b) ALTERNATE SECURITY. In lieu of the right given to the
Executive under Subparagraph (a), he shall have the right under such
circumstances to require that STWA provide (i) an irrevocable standby
letter of credit issued by a financial institution other than STWA or
any Subsidiary of STWA with a senior debt credit rating of "A" or
better by Xxxxx'x Investors Service or Standard & Poor's Corporation,
or (ii) other security reasonably acceptable to him, to secure the
payment of such compensation and benefits.
(c) ACCELERATED PAYMENT OF PRESENT VALUE OF CERTAIN
COMPENSATION. In the event (i) the Executive's employment is terminated
without Cause or he terminates his employment for Good Reason, and (ii)
a Change in Control has occurred as of the Date of Termination or
occurs thereafter, the Executive shall have the continuing right to
demand that the present value of the remaining payments described in
Paragraphs 6(b)(1) through (3), and payable by reason of the provisions
of Paragraph 10 or 11 (as the case may be), be paid to him in one lump
sum within 30 days after the date written demand is given. For purposes
of calculating the present value of such payments, a discount factor
shall be applied to each such payment which is equal to the relevant
applicable federal rate in effect on the date written demand is given
by him, determined by reference to the period of time between the date
of such notice and the scheduled time such payment would otherwise be
made. In the
13
event any payment described in Paragraphs 6(b)(1) through (3) is not
yet determinable on the date written demand is made, the other payments
shall nonetheless be made as provided above; and the undetermined
payment shall be made within 30 days after it becomes determinable,
calculated as provided in the preceding sentence but by treating the
date on which the payment becomes determinable as the date of written
notice. Nothing in this subparagraph shall be construed as affecting
the Executive's right to one or more Gross-Up Payments in accordance
with the provisions of Paragraph 12; and a Gross-Up Payment (if
applicable) will be calculated and made with any payment made under
this subparagraph, as well as any other Gross-Up Payments that may be
required hereunder at a subsequent date.
17. WITHHOLDING TAXES. All compensation and benefits provided for
herein shall, to the extent required by law, be subject to federal,
state, and local tax withholding.
18. CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION. The Executive agrees that subsequent
to his employment with STWA, he will not, at any time, communicate or
disclose to any unauthorized person, without the written consent of the
STWA, any proprietary or other confidential information concerning STWA
or any Subsidiary of STWA; provided, however, that the obligations
under this paragraph shall not apply to the extent that such matters
(i) are disclosed in circumstances where the Executive is legally
obligated to do so, or (ii) become generally known to and available for
use by the public otherwise than by his wrongful act or omission; and
provided further, that he may disclose any knowledge of insurance,
financial, legal and economic principles, concepts and ideas which are
not solely and exclusively derived from the business plans and
activities of STWA.
19. COVENANTS NOT TO COMPETE OR TO SOLICIT.
(a) NONCOMPETITION. During the period in which he is
employed by STWA and, if the Executive's employment terminates under
Paragraphs 6, for a period of 12 months after the Date of Termination
(the "Noncompetition Period"), the Executive shall not, without the
written consent in writing of the Board of Directors of STWA, become an
executive officer, partner, consultant, director, or a four and
nine-tenths percent or greater shareholder or equity owner of any
entity engaged in the banking, lending, asset management, mutual fund,
financial planning or investment security business within the
California counties of Camden, Burlington, or any other California
county in which STWA has a branch or loan production office. If at the
time of the enforcement of this paragraph a court holds that the
duration, scope, or area restrictions stated herein are unreasonable
under the circumstances then existing and, thus, unenforceable, STWA
and the Executive agree that the maximum duration, scope, or area
reasonable under such circumstances shall be substituted for the stated
duration, scope, or area.
(b) NONSOLICITATION. During his employment and the
Noncompetition Period, the Executive shall not, whether on his own
behalf or on behalf of any
14
other individual or business entity, solicit, endeavor to entice away
from STWA, a Subsidiary or any affiliated company, or otherwise
interfere with the relationship of STWA, a Subsidiary or any affiliated
company with any person who is, or was within the then most recent 12
month period, an employee or associate thereof; provided, however, that
this subparagraph shall not apply following the occurrence of a Change
in Control.
(c) EXTENSION OF NONCOMPETITION PERIOD. The
Non-Competition Period shall be automatically extended by the length of
time (if any) in which the Executive is in violation of any of the
terms of this Section 19.
20. ARBITRATION. To the extent permitted by applicable law, any
controversy or dispute arising out of or relating to this Agreement, or
any alleged breach hereof, shall be settled by arbitration in Los
Angeles, California in accordance with the commercial rules of the
American Arbitration Association then in existence (to the extent such
rules are not inconsistent with the provisions of this Agreement), it
being understood and agreed that the arbitration panel shall consist of
three individuals acceptable to the parties hereto. In the event that
the parties cannot agree on three arbitrators within 20 days following
receipt by one party of a demand for arbitration from another party,
then the Executive and STWA shall each designate one arbitrator and the
two arbitrators selected shall select the third arbitrator. The
arbitration panel so selected shall convene a hearing no later than 90
days following the selection of the panel. The arbitration award shall
be final and binding upon the parties, and judgment may be entered
thereon in the California Superior Court or in any other court of
competent jurisdiction.
21. ADDITIONAL EQUITABLE REMEDY. The Executive acknowledges and
agrees that STWA's remedy at law for a breach or a threatened breach of
the provisions of Paragraphs 18 and 19 would be inadequate; and, in
recognition of this fact and notwithstanding the provisions of
Paragraph 20, in the event of such a breach or threatened breach by
him, it is agreed that STWA shall be entitled to request equitable
relief in the form of specific performance, temporary restraining
order, temporary or permanent injunction, or any other equitable remedy
which may then be available. Nothing in this paragraph shall be
construed as prohibiting STWA from pursuing any other remedy available
under this Agreement for such a breach or threatened breach.
22. RELATED AGREEMENTS. Except as may otherwise be provided
herein, to the extent that any provision of any other agreement between
STWA and the Executive shall limit, qualify, duplicate, or be
inconsistent with any provision of this Agreement, the provision in
this Agreement shall control and such provision of such other agreement
shall be deemed to have been superseded, and to be of no force or
effect, as if such other agreement had been formally amended to the
extent necessary to accomplish such purpose.
23. NO EFFECT ON OTHER RIGHTS. Except as otherwise specifically
provided herein, nothing contained in this Agreement shall be construed
as adversely affecting any rights the Executive may have under any
agreement, plan, policy or
15
arrangement to the extent any such right is not inconsistent with the
provisions hereof.
24. EXCLUSIVE RIGHTS AND REMEDY. Except for any explicit rights
and remedies the Executive may have under any other contract, plan or
arrangement with STWA, the compensation and benefits payable hereunder
and the remedy for enforcement thereof shall constitute his exclusive
rights and remedy in the event of his termination of employment.
25. DIRECTOR AND OFFICER LIABILITY INSURANCE; INDEMNIFICATION.
STWA shall provide the Executive (including his heirs, executors, and
administrators) with the maximum coverage permitted under its
directors' and officers' liability insurance policy, as soon as STWA
obtains such a policy, at STWA's expense and shall indemnify him as
both a director and as an officer (and his heirs, executors, and
administrators) to the fullest extent permitted under Federal and
California law against all expenses and liabilities reasonably incurred
by him in connection with or arising out of any action, suit, or
proceeding in which he may be involved by reason of his having been an
officer or director of STWA or any Subsidiary or affiliated company
(whether or not he continues to be such an officer or director at the
time of incurring such expenses or liabilities). Such expenses and
liabilities shall include, but not be limited to, judgments, court
costs, and attorneys' fees, and the costs of reasonable settlements.
26. NOTICES. Any notice required or permitted under this Agreement
shall be sufficient if it is in writing and shall be deemed given (i)
at the time of personal delivery to the addressee, or (ii) at the time
sent certified mail, with return receipt requested, addressed as
follows:
If to the Executive: Xxxxx X. XxXxxxxx
00000 Xxxxxxx Xxxx
Xxxxxx Xxxx, XX 00000
If to STWA 0000 Xxxxxxxxxx Xxxxxxxxx
Xxxxx Xxxxxxxxx, XX 00000
Attention: Chairman of the Board of
Directors
The name or address of any addressee may be changed at any time and from time to
time by notice similarly given.
27. NO WAIVER. The failure by any party to this Agreement at any
time or times hereafter to require strict performance by any other
party of any of the provisions, terms, or conditions contained in this
Agreement shall not waive, affect, or diminish any right of the first
party at any time or times thereafter to demand strict performance
therewith and with any other provision, term, or
16
condition contained in this Agreement. Any actual waiver of a
provision, term, or condition contained in this Agreement shall not
constitute a waiver of any other provision, term, or condition herein,
whether prior or subsequent to such actual waiver and whether of the
same or a different type. The failure of STWA to promptly terminate the
Executive's employment for Cause or the Executive to promptly terminate
his employment for Good Reason shall not be construed as a waiver of
the right of termination, and such right may be exercised at any time
following the occurrence of the event giving rise to such right.
28. SURVIVAL. Notwithstanding the nominal termination of this
Agreement and the Executive's employment hereunder, the provisions
hereof which specify continuing obligations, compensation and benefits,
and rights (including the otherwise applicable term hereof) shall
remain in effect until such time as all such obligations are
discharged, all such compensation and benefits are received, and no
party or beneficiary has any remaining actual or contingent rights
hereunder.
29. SEVERABILITY. In the event any provision in this Agreement
shall be held illegal or invalid for any reason, such illegal or
invalid provision shall not affect the remaining provisions hereof, and
this Agreement shall be construed, administered and enforced as though
such illegal or invalid provision were not contained herein.
30. BINDING EFFECT AND BENEFIT. The provisions of this Agreement
shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of the successors
and assigns of STWA and the executors, personal representatives,
surviving spouse, heirs, devisees, and legatees of the Executive.
31. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement embodies the entire agreement
among the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof, and it
supersedes all prior discussions and oral understandings of the parties
with respect thereto.
32. NO ASSIGNMENT. This Agreement, and the benefits and
obligations hereunder, shall not be assignable by any party hereto
except by operation of law.
33. NO ATTACHMENT. Except as otherwise provided by law, no right
to receive compensation or benefits under this Agreement shall be
subject to anticipation, commutation, alienation, sale, assignment,
encumbrance, charge, pledge, or hypothecation, or to set off,
execution, attachment, levy, or similar process, and any attempt,
voluntary or involuntary, to effect any such action shall be null and
void.
34. CAPTIONS. The captions of the several paragraphs and
subparagraphs of this Agreement have been inserted for convenience of
reference only. They constitute no part of this Agreement and are not
to be considered in the construction hereof.
35. COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed in any number of
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed one and the same instrument
which may be sufficiently evidenced by any one counterpart.
17
36. NUMBER. Wherever any words are used herein in the singular
form, they shall be construed as though they were used in the plural
form, as the context requires, and vice versa.
37. APPLICABLE LAW. Except to the extent preempted by federal law,
the provisions of this Agreement shall be construed, administered, and
enforced in accordance with the domestic internal law of the State of
California without reference to its laws regarding conflict of laws.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement, or caused
it to be executed, as of the date first above written.
____________________________________
Xxxxx X. XxXxxxxx
SAVE THE WORLD AIR, INC.
By: ______________________________________
Xxxxxx Xxxxx
Chairman of the Board
Attest: __________________________________
Xxxxxx Xxxxxx
Corporate Secretary
18
GLOSSARY
"BOARD OF DIRECTORS" means the board of directors of the relevant
corporation.
"CAUSE" means (i) a documented repeated and willful failure by the
Executive to perform his duties, but only after written demand and only
if termination is effected by action taken by a vote of (A) prior to a
Change in Control, at least a majority of the directors of STWA then in
office, or (B) after a Change in Control, at least 80% of the
non-officer directors of STWA then in office, (ii) his final conviction
of a felony, (iii) conduct by him which constitutes moral turpitude
which is directly and materially injurious to STWA or any Material
Subsidiary, (iv) willful material violation of corporate policy, or (v)
the issuance by the regulator of STWA or any Subsidiary or affiliated
company of an unappealable order to the effect that he be permanently
discharged.
For purposes of this definition, no act or failure to act on the part
of the Executive shall be considered "willful" unless done or omitted
not in good faith and without reasonable belief that the action or
omission was in the best interest of STWA or any of its Subsidiaries or
affiliated companies.
"CHANGE IN CONTROL" means the occurrence of any of the following
events:
(a) any Person (except (i) STWA or any Subsidiary or
prior affiliate of STWA, or (ii) any Employee Benefit Plan (or any
trust forming a part thereof) maintained by STWA or any Subsidiary or
prior affiliate of STWA) is or becomes the beneficial owner, directly
or indirectly, of STWA's securities representing 19.9% or more of the
combined voting power of STWA's then outstanding securities, or 50.1%
or more of the combined voting power of a Material Subsidiary's then
outstanding securities, other than pursuant to a transaction described
in Clause (c);
(b) there occurs a sale, exchange, transfer or other
disposition of substantially all of the assets of STWA or a Material
Subsidiary to another entity, except to an entity controlled directly
or indirectly by STWA;
(c) there occurs a merger, consolidation, share exchange,
division or other reorganization of or relating to STWA, unless --
(i) the shareholders of STWA immediately before
such merger, consolidation, share exchange, division or reorganization
own, directly or indirectly, immediately thereafter at least two-thirds
of the combined voting power of the outstanding voting securities of
the Surviving Company in substantially the same proportion as their
ownership of the voting securities immediately before such merger,
consolidation, share exchange, division or reorganization; and
(ii) the individuals who, immediately before such
merger, consolidation, share exchange, division or reorganization, are
members of the Incumbent Board continue to constitute at least
two-thirds of the board of directors of the Surviving Company;
provided, however, that if the election, or nomination for election by
STWA's shareholders, of any new director was approved by a vote of at
least two-thirds of the Incumbent Board, such director shall, for the
purposes hereof, be considered a member of the Incumbent Board; and
provided further, however, that no individual shall be considered a
member of the Incumbent Board if such individual initially assumed
office as a result of either an actual or threatened Election Contest
or Proxy Contest, including by reason of any agreement intended to
avoid or settle any Election Contest or Proxy Contest; and
(iii) no Person (except (A) STWA or any Subsidiary
or prior affiliate of STWA, (B) any Employee Benefit Plan (or any trust
forming a part thereof) maintained by STWA or any Subsidiary or prior
affiliate of STWA, or (C) the Surviving Company or any Subsidiary or
prior affiliate of the Surviving Company) has beneficial ownership of
19.9% or more of the combined voting power of
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the Surviving Company's outstanding voting securities immediately
following such merger, consolidation, share exchange, division or
reorganization;
(d) a plan of liquidation or dissolution of STWA, other
than pursuant to bankruptcy or insolvency laws, is adopted; or
(e) during any period of two consecutive years,
individuals who, at the beginning of such period, constituted the Board
of Directors of STWA cease for any reason to constitute at least a
majority of such Board of Directors, unless the election, or the
nomination for election by STWA's shareholders, of each new director
was approved by a vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then
still in office who were directors at the beginning of the period;
provided, however, that no individual shall be considered a member of
the Board of Directors of STWA at the beginning of such period if such
individual initially assumed office as a result of either an actual or
threatened Election Contest or Proxy Contest, including by reason of
any agreement intended to avoid or settle any Election Contest or Proxy
Contest.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, a Change in Control shall not be deemed
to have occurred if a Person becomes the beneficial owner, directly or
indirectly, of securities representing 19.9% or more of the combined
voting power of STWA's then outstanding securities solely as a result
of an acquisition by STWA of its voting securities which, by reducing
the number of shares outstanding, increases the proportionate number of
shares beneficially owned by such Person; provided, however, that if a
Person becomes a beneficial owner of 19.9% or more of the combined
voting power of STWA's then outstanding securities by reason of share
repurchases by STWA and thereafter becomes the beneficial owner,
directly or indirectly, of any additional voting securities of STWA,
then a Change in Control shall be deemed to have occurred with respect
to such Person under Clause (a).
Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, if the
Executive's employment is terminated and he reasonably demonstrates
that such termination (i) was at the request of a third party who has
indicated an intention of taking steps reasonably calculated to effect
a Change in Control and who effects a Change in Control, or (ii)
otherwise occurred in connection with, or in anticipation of, a Change
in Control which actually occurs, then for all purposes hereof, a
Change in Control shall be deemed to have occurred on the day
immediately prior to the date of such termination of his employment.
"STWA" means Save The World Air, Inc.
"DATE OF TERMINATION" means:
(a) if the Executive's employment is terminated for
Disability, 30 days after the Notice of Termination is given (provided
that he shall not have returned to the performance of his duties on a
full-time basis during such 30-day period);
(b) if the Executive's employment terminates by reason of
his death, the date of his death;
(c) if the Executive's employment is terminated by STWA
for Cause, the date of termination specified in the Notice of
Termination and determined in accordance with Section 8(a);
(d) if the Executive's employment is terminated by him
without Good Reason, the date of termination specified in the Notice of
Termination and determined in accordance with Section 9(a);
(e) if the Executive's employment is terminated by STWA
for any reason other than for Disability or Cause, the date specified
in the Notice of Termination and determined in accordance with Section
10(a); or
(f) if the Executive's employment is terminated by him
for Good Reason, the termination date specified in the Notice of
Termination and determined in accordance with Section 11(a);
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provided, however that the Date of Termination shall mean the actual
date of termination in the event the parties mutually agree to a date
other than that described above.
"DEFINED BENEFIT PLAN" has the meaning ascribed to such term in Section
3(35) of ERISA.
"DEFINED CONTRIBUTION PLAN" has the meaning ascribed to such term in
Section 3(34) of ERISA.
"DISABILITY" has the meaning ascribed to the term "permanent and total
disability" in Section 22(e)(3) of the IRC.
"ELECTION CONTEST" means a solicitation with respect to the election or
removal of directors that, if STWA was subject to the provisions of the
1934 Act, would be subject to the provisions of Rule 14a-11 of the 1934
Act.
"EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLAN" has the meaning ascribed to such term in
Section 3(3) of ERISA.
"ERISA" means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as
amended and as the same may be amended from time to time.
"EXCISE TAX" means the tax imposed by Section 4999 of the IRC (or any
similar tax that may hereafter be imposed by federal, state or local
law).
"EXECUTIVE" means NAME OF EXECUTIVE, an individual residing in ADDRESS,
California.
"GOOD REASON" means:
(a) prior to a Change in Control--
(i) the Executive's demotion to a lesser position, or
any material diminution in his duties or
responsibilities;
(ii) a reduction in the Executive's base
compensation, other than a reduction which is
proportionate to a company-wide reduction in
executive pay;
(iii) a failure to increase the Executive's base
compensation, consistent with his performance rating,
within 24 months since the last increase, other than
similar treatment on a company-wide basis for
executives or a voluntary deferral by him of an
increase; or
(iv) any purported termination of the Executive's
employment which is not in accordance with the terms
of this Agreement; and
(b) after a Change in Control--
(i) a change in the Executive's status or position,
or any material diminution in his duties or
responsibilities;
(ii) any increase in the Executive's duties
inconsistent with his position;
(iii) any reduction in the Executive's base
compensation;
(iv) a failure to increase the Executive's base
compensation, consistent with his performance review,
within 12 months of the last increase; or a failure
to consider Executive for an increase within 12
months of his last performance review;
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(v) a failure to continue in effect any Employee
Benefit Plan in which the Executive participates,
including (whether or not they constitute Employee
Benefit Plans) incentive bonus, stock option, or
other qualified or nonqualified plans of deferred
compensation (A) other than as a result of the normal
expiration of such a plan, or (B) unless such plan is
merged or consolidated into, or replaced with, a plan
with benefits which are of equal or greater value;
(vi) requiring the Executive to be based anywhere
other than the county where his principal office was
located immediately prior to the Change in Control;
(vii) refusal to allow the Executive to attend to
matters or engage in activities in which he was
permitted to engage prior to the Change in Control;
(viii) delivery to the Executive of a Notice of
Nonextension;
(ix) failure to secure the affirmation by a
Successor, within three business days prior to a
Change in Control, of this Agreement and its or
STWA's continuing obligations hereunder (or where
there is not at least three business days advance
notice that a Person may become a Successor, within
one business day after having notice that such Person
may become or has become a Successor); or
(x) any purported termination of the Executive's
employment which is not in accordance with the terms
of this Agreement.
Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, at the election of the
Executive, beginning with the 181st day following a Change in Control and
continuing through the first anniversary of such Change in Control, he may
terminate his employment for any reason or no reason and such termination will
be treated as having occurred for Good Reason.
"GROSS-UP PAYMENT" means an additional payment to be made to or on
behalf of the Executive in an amount such that the net amount retained by him,
after deduction of any Excise Tax on the Total Payments and any federal, state,
and local income tax and Excise Tax on such additional payment, equals the Total
Payments.
"INCUMBENT BOARD" means the Board of Directors of STWA as constituted
at any relevant time.
"IRC" means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended and as the
same may be amended from time to time.
"MATERIAL SUBSIDIARY" means a Subsidiary whose net worth, determined
under generally accepted accounting principles, at the fiscal year end
immediately prior to any relevant time is at least 25% of the aggregate net
worth of the controlled group of corporations of which STWA is parent.
"1934 ACT" means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and as
the same may be amended from time to time.
"NOTICE OF NON-EXTENSION" means a written notice delivered to or by the
Executive which advises that the Agreement will not be extended as provided in
Paragraph 3.
"NOTICE OF TERMINATION" means a written notice that (i) indicates the
specific termination provision in this Agreement relied upon, (ii) sets forth in
reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for
termination of the Executive's employment under the provision so indicated, and
(iii) gives the required advance notice of termination.
"PERSON" has the same meaning as such term has for purposes of Sections
13(d) and 14(d) of the 1934 Act.
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"PROXY CONTEST" means the solicitation of proxies or consents by or on
behalf of a Person other than the Board of Directors of STWA.
"SUBSIDIARY" means any business entity of which a majority of its
voting power or its equity securities or equity interests is owned, directly or
indirectly by STWA.
"SUCCESSOR" means any Person that succeeds to, or has the practical
ability to control (either immediately or with the passage of time), STWA's
business directly, by merger or consolidation, or indirectly, by purchase of
STWA's voting securities or all or substantially all of its assets.
"SURVIVING COMPANY" means the business entity that is a resulting
company following a merger, consolidation, share exchange, division or other
reorganization of or relating to STWA.
"TOTAL PAYMENTS" means the compensation and benefits that become
payable under the Agreement or otherwise (and which may be subject to an Excise
Tax) by reason of the Executive's termination of employment, less the federal,
state and local income tax (but not any Excise Tax) on such compensation and
benefits, in each case determined without regard to any Gross-Up Payments that
may also be made.
"WELFARE BENEFIT PLAN" has the meaning ascribed to the term "employee
welfare benefit plan" in Section 3(1) of ERISA. For purposes of determining the
Executive's or his dependents' right to continued welfare benefits hereunder
following his termination of employment, the meaning of such term shall include
any retiree health plan maintained by STWA at any time after the relevant Date
of Termination, notwithstanding the fact that the Executive is not a participant
therein prior to such date.
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