AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
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This AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (this "EMPLOYMENT
AGREEMENT") is made this 28th day of June, 2004 by and between ▇▇▇▇ True Temper,
Inc., a Delaware corporation (the "COMPANY"), and ▇▇▇▇▇▇ ▇. ▇▇▇▇, ▇▇.
("EXECUTIVE").
WHEREAS, the Company and its subsidiaries are engaged in the business of
(i) manufacturing, marketing and distributing long-handled tools, wheelbarrows,
hose reels, striking tools, pruning implements, pots and planters, snow tools,
lawn carts, repair handles, garden hoses, and decorative accessories for the
lawn and garden, and (ii) conducting such other activities as are undertaken
from time to time by the Company and each of its Affiliates, as defined in
SECTION 9(F), as a result of future acquisitions, or otherwise;
WHEREAS, Executive entered into that certain Employment Agreement as of
March 31, 2003 (the "OLD EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT") with the Company;
WHEREAS, the Company desires to continue to employ Executive, and Executive
desires to continue to be employed by the Company, as the VP, Marketing of the
Company, in accordance with the terms and conditions set forth herein; and
WHEREAS, the Company and Executive each desire that the Old Employment
Agreement be amended and restated in its entirety as set forth in this
Employment Agreement and that this Employment Agreement supercede the Old
Employment Agreement, and all other agreements with respect to the subject
matter hereof.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and the mutual covenants
and promises in this Employment Agreement, the parties agree as follows:
1. EMPLOYMENT. The Company hereby agrees to continue to employ Executive as
VP, Marketing of the Company, and Executive hereby agrees to accept such
employment and agrees to act as VP, Marketing of the Company, all in accordance
with the terms and conditions of this Employment Agreement. Executive hereby
represents and warrants that neither Executive's entry into this Employment
Agreement nor Executive's performance of Executive's obligations hereunder will
conflict with or result in a breach of the terms, conditions or provisions of
any other agreement or obligation of any nature to which Executive is a party or
by which Executive is bound, including, without limitation, any development
agreement, non-competition agreement or confidentiality agreement entered into
by Executive.
2. TERM OF EMPLOYMENT AND AUTOMATIC RENEWAL. The term of Executive's
employment under this Employment Agreement will commence on the date of this
Employment Agreement and will continue until the third (3rd) anniversary of the
date of this Employment Agreement (the "INITIAL EMPLOYMENT PERIOD"). THE INITIAL
EMPLOYMENT PERIOD AND ANY RENEWAL EMPLOYMENT PERIOD (AS DEFINED HEREIN) SHALL
AUTOMATICALLY BE RENEWED AND EXTENDED ON THE SAME TERMS AND CONDITIONS CONTAINED
HEREIN FOR CONSECUTIVE ONE-YEAR PERIODS (EACH, A "RENEWAL EMPLOYMENT PERIOD"),
UNLESS NOT LATER THAN SIXTY (60) DAYS PRIOR TO THE END OF THE INITIAL EMPLOYMENT
PERIOD
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OR ANY RENEWAL EMPLOYMENT PERIOD, AS THE CASE MAY BE, EITHER PARTY SHALL GIVE
WRITTEN NOTICE TO THE OTHER PARTY OF ITS ELECTION TO TERMINATE THIS EMPLOYMENT
AGREEMENT. The Initial Employment Period and the Renewal Employment Periods are
hereinafter referred to as the "EMPLOYMENT PERIOD." For purposes of this
Employment Agreement, any notice of termination electing not to renew this
Employment Agreement pursuant to this SECTION 2 shall be deemed: (i) a
termination without Due Cause pursuant to SECTION 9(D) if such notice is
delivered by the Company; or (ii) a voluntary resignation without Good Reason
pursuant to SECTION 9(E) if such notice is delivered by Executive.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, the Employment Period
is subject to termination pursuant to SECTION 9 below.
3. POSITION AND RESPONSIBILITIES. Executive shall report to and be subject
to the direction of the CEO of the Company. Executive shall perform and
discharge such duties and responsibilities for the Company as the CEO may from
time to time reasonably assign Executive. Executive understands and acknowledges
that such duties shall be subject to revision and modification by the Chief
Executive Officer and/or the Board of Advisors (the "Board") of CHATT Holdings
LLC ("CHATT"), as appropriate, upon reasonable notice to Executive. During the
Employment Period, Executive shall devote Executive's full business time,
attention, skill and efforts to the faithful performance of Executive's duties
herein, and shall perform the duties and carry out the responsibilities assigned
to Executive, to the best of Executive's ability, in a diligent, trustworthy and
businesslike manner for the purpose of advancing the Company. Executive
acknowledges that Executive's duties and responsibilities will require
Executive's full-time business efforts and agrees that during the Employment
Period, Executive will not engage in any outside business activities that
conflict with the Executive's obligations under this Employment Agreement.
4. COMPENSATION.
(a) Base Salary. During the Employment Period, the Company shall pay to
Executive a minimum base salary at the rate of $180,250 per year (the "BASE
SALARY"), less applicable tax withholding, subject to increase from time to
time, solely at the Company's discretion, payable at the Company's regular
employee payroll intervals. Executive's performance shall be reviewed annually
and the Base Salary may be increased at the Company's sole discretion.
(b) Discretionary Bonus. During the Employment Period, Executive shall
be eligible to receive a cash bonus based upon the achievement of certain
budgeted performance goals pursuant to a program approved by the Board;
provided, that, notwithstanding the foregoing, for fiscal year 2004, Executive
shall be eligible to receive a cash bonus based upon budgeted performance goals
which are substantially similar to the goals approved by the Company prior to
such fiscal year. Executive shall also be eligible to receive additional
bonuses, in such amounts, if any, as determined by the Board in its sole
discretion based upon the achievement of performance goals and objectives
approved by the Board.
(c) Stock. Pursuant to that Subscription Agreement (the "SUBSCRIPTION
AGREEMENT") entered into between CHATT and Executive, Executive purchased
certain Class B units of CHATT, which Class B units shall be subject to certain
vesting, repurchase and other obligations and restrictions set forth in the
Subscription Agreement.
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5. BENEFIT PLANS. During the Employment Period, Executive will be entitled
to receive traditional employment benefits comparable to (i) those benefits
provided to other senior executive officers of the Company (subject to any
applicable waiting periods, eligibility requirements, or other restrictions),
which may include insurance (medical, dental, life, disability, directors and
officers, etc.), retirement plans, and profit sharing plans; and (ii) the
benefits provided to the Executive immediately prior to the Effective Date.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company may, at any time or from time to
time, amend, modify, suspend or terminate any benefit plan or program
contemplated hereunder in this Section 5 for any reason and without the
Executive's prior written; provided that such amendment, modification,
suspension or termination does not disproportionately impact the Executive as
compared to the other participants under such plan or program.
6. EXPENSES. The Company, in accordance with policies and practices
established by the Board from time to time, will pay or reimburse Executive for
all expenses (including travel and cell phone expenses) reasonably incurred by
Executive during the Employment Period in connection with the performance of
Executive's duties under this Employment Agreement, provided that Executive
shall provide to the Company documentation or evidence of expenses for which
Executive seeks reimbursement in accordance with the policies and procedures
established by the Board from time to time.
7. VACATION. Executive shall be entitled to vacation at the rate of 4 weeks
per year in accordance with the Company's vacation policy. Executive shall make
good faith efforts to schedule vacations so as to least conflict with the
conduct of the Company's business and will give the Company adequate advance
notice of Executive's planned absences. Up to half of Executive's unused
vacation time may be carried over to subsequent years; provided, however, that
in no event shall Executive be entitled to greater than 6 weeks vacation per
year.
8. CONFIDENTIALITY, INVENTIONS, NON-COMPETITION AND NON-SOLICITATION
AGREEMENT. As of the date hereof, Executive shall have entered into a
confidentiality, inventions, non-competition and non-solicitation agreement, in
the form of EXHIBIT A attached hereto and made a part hereof (the
"CONFIDENTIALITY, INVENTIONS, NON-COMPETITION AND NON-SOLICITATION AGREEMENT").
9. TERMINATION.
(a) Death. The Employment Period will terminate immediately upon the
death of Executive. If the Employment Period is terminated pursuant to this
SECTION 9(A), the Company shall have no further obligation to Executive (or the
Executive's estate) except for salary and benefits accrued through the date of
termination, and except as otherwise described in the Subscription Agreement.
(b) Due Cause. The Company may terminate the Employment Period
immediately upon written notice to Executive for a material breach of this
Employment Agreement by Executive. The following events constitute the exclusive
list of events that will be deemed a material breach of this Employment
Agreement (each of which shall constitute "DUE CAUSE"):
(i) Executive's material breach of any of Executive's obligations
under the Confidentiality, Inventions, Non-Competition and
Non-Solicitation
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Agreement; this Employment Agreement; the Subscription
Agreement; the Amended and Restated Unitholders Agreement of
CHATT, dated as of June 28, 2004, as in effect from time to
time (the "Unitholders Agreement"); or the Limited Liability
Company Agreement of CHATT, dated as of June 28, 2004, by and
among the parties thereto, as in effect from time to time (the
"LLC Agreement"); or
(ii) Executive's continued and deliberate neglect of, willful
misconduct in connection with the performance of, or refusal
to perform Executive's duties in accordance with SECTION 3 of
this Employment Agreement, which, in the case of neglect or
failure to perform, has not been cured within thirty (30) days
after Executive has been provided notice of the same; or
(iii) Executive's engagement in any conduct which injures the
integrity, character, financial position or financial
performance of the business or reputation of the Company or
which impugns Executive's own integrity, character or
reputation so as to cause Executive to be unfit to act in the
capacity of VP, Marketing of the Company; or
(iv) the Board's good faith determination that Executive has
committed an act or acts constituting a felony, or other act
involving dishonesty, disloyalty or fraud against the Company.
If the Employment Period is terminated pursuant to this SECTION 9(B), the
Company shall have no further obligation to Executive except for salary and
benefits accrued through the date of termination, and except as otherwise
described in the Subscription Agreement.
(c) Permanent Disability. The Company may terminate the Employment
Period upon the Permanent Disability (as defined below) of the Executive. If the
Employment Period is terminated pursuant to this SECTION 9(C), then Executive
will be entitled to receive the Executive's salary and benefits accrued through
the date of termination and such benefits, if any, as may be provided Executive
pursuant to the Company's disability insurance policy. Except as set forth in
the immediately preceding sentence and as otherwise described in the
Subscription Agreement, if the Employment Period is terminated pursuant to this
SECTION 9(C), the Company shall have no further obligation to Executive. For
purposes of this Employment Agreement, the term "PERMANENT DISABILITY" shall
mean that, pursuant to applicable law, Executive is unable to perform, with or
without reasonable accommodation, by reason of physical or mental incapacity,
the essential functions of the Executive's position for ninety (90) or more days
in any one hundred twenty (120) day period. The Board shall determine, according
to the facts then available, whether and when a Permanent Disability has
occurred. Such determination shall not be arbitrary or unreasonable.
(d) Termination by the Company without Due Cause. The Company may
terminate the Employment Period without Due Cause upon thirty (30) days' prior
written notice. If the Employment Period is terminated pursuant to this SECTION
9(D), then Executive will be entitled to receive as severance pay the
Executive's Base Salary plus benefits (at the same cost to the Executive as in
effect immediately prior to such termination of employment) for a period of six
(6) months, payable at the Company's regular payroll intervals. Notwithstanding
the above,
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Executive shall receive such amounts only if Executive is not in material breach
of any of the provisions of the Confidentiality, Inventions, Non-Competition and
Non-Solicitation Agreement. Except as set forth in the first sentence of this
SECTION 9(D) and as otherwise described in the Subscription Agreement, if the
Employment Period is terminated pursuant to this SECTION 9(D), the Company shall
have no further obligation to Executive.
(e) Voluntary Resignation by Executive. Executive may terminate the
Employment Period at any time for any reason upon thirty (30) days' prior
written notice. If the Employment Period is terminated pursuant to this SECTION
9(E), the Company shall have no further obligation to Executive except for
salary and benefits accrued through the date of termination, and except as
otherwise described in SECTION 4(C) of this Employment Agreement; provided,
however, that if Executive is terminating the Employment Period for Good Reason
(as defined below), then Executive will be entitled to receive as severance pay
the Executive's Base Salary plus benefits (at the same cost to the Executive as
in effect immediately prior to such termination of employment) for a period of
six (6) months, payable at the Company's regular payroll intervals.
Notwithstanding the above, Executive shall receive such amounts only if
Executive is not in material breach of any of the provisions of the
Confidentiality, Inventions, Non-Competition and Non-Solicitation Agreement. The
following events will be deemed "GOOD REASON" for which Executive may terminate
the Employment Period and receive the severance payments set forth in this
SECTION 9(E):
(i) a material diminution of the Executive's responsibilities
after notice to the Company and a thirty (30) day opportunity
to cure; or
(ii) any material breach of this Employment Agreement on the part
of the Company (including, but not limited to, any decrease in
the Base Salary without the consent of the Executive or
relocation of Executive's place of employment to a location
that is greater than fifty (50) miles from the Harrisburg,
Pennsylvania metropolitan area), after notice to the Board,
and a thirty (30) day opportunity to cure; provided, however,
that Executive is not in material breach of any of the terms
of this Employment Agreement.
(f) General Release. The receipt of any severance payment as set forth
in SECTIONS 9(C)-(E) above shall be contingent upon Executive's execution of a
general release of all claims against the Company and its Affiliates (as defined
below), substantially in the form attached hereto as EXHIBIT B. For purposes of
this Employment Agreement, the term "AFFILIATES" means all persons or entities
that directly or indirectly, through one or more intermediaries, controls, is
controlled by, or is under common control with, the Company, all companies or
entities in which the Company owns an equity interest, and all predecessors,
successors and assigns of such affiliates.
(g) Mitigation. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, to the
extent Executive obtains employment at any time during the entire six (6) months
of the severance period, the Company's severance obligations under this
Employment Agreement, including, without limitation, the continuation of
Executive's benefits hereunder, shall be reduced by the amount of any
compensation or benefits received (or accrued) by the Executive, including
without limitation any equity or other incentive compensation and any bonus,
under such new employment arrangement. Executive agrees that if Executive
accepts other employment at any time during the entire six (6) months of the
severance period, Executive shall notify the
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Company in writing within two (2) business days of such acceptance. Executive
acknowledges that the Executive's failure to abide by this provision shall
entitle the Company to recoup all severance pay previously paid to Executive
pursuant to this Employment Agreement.
(h) Survival. Termination of the Employment Period in accordance with
this SECTION 11, or expiration of the Employment Period, will not affect the
provisions of this Employment Agreement that survive such termination, including
without limitation, the provisions in the Confidentiality, Inventions,
Non-Competition and Non-Solicitation Agreement and will not limit either party's
ability to pursue remedies at law or equity.
10. ATTORNEY'S FEES. If either party prevails in a legal action to enforce
or protect its rights under this Employment Agreement, then that party shall be
entitled to recover reasonable attorneys' fees, costs, and expenses, in addition
to all other relief, including but not limited to damages and injunctive relief.
The Company shall reimburse the Executive for the Executive's reasonable
attorneys fees and costs incurred with respect to the negotiation and execution
of the amendment and restatement of this Agreement.
11. EXECUTIVE ASSISTANCE. Both during and for two years after Executive's
employment with the Company, Executive shall, upon reasonable notice, furnish
the Company with such information as may be in Executive's possession or
control, and cooperate with the Company, as the Company may reasonably request
(with due consideration to Executive's business activities and obligations after
the Employment Period), in connection with any litigation, claim, or other
dispute in which the Company or any of its Affiliates is or may become a party.
The Company shall reimburse Executive for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses
incurred by Executive in fulfilling Executive's obligations under this SECTION
11. In addition, to the extent that the Executive provides such assistance at
any time after six months from the date that Executive's employment with the
Company has terminated, and Executive is required to be absent from employment
for one or more days in order to provide such assistance, the Company shall pay
the Executive for each such day an amount equal to the daily rate of the
Executive's Base Salary as in effect as of the date of termination.
12. EFFECT OF PRIOR AGREEMENTS. This Employment Agreement, the Subscription
Agreement, the Confidentiality, Inventions, Non-Competition and Non-Solicitation
Agreement, the Unitholders Agreement and the LLC Agreement contain the entire
understanding among the Company, CHATT and Executive relating to the subject
matter hereof and supersede any prior employment agreement between Executive,
ATT Holding Co., and the Company, including, without limitation, the Old
Employment Agreement, or other agreement relating to the subject matter hereof
between ATT Holding Co., the Company and Executive.
13. MODIFICATION AND WAIVER. This Employment Agreement may not be modified
or amended, nor may any provisions of this Employment Agreement be waived,
except by an instrument in writing signed by the parties. No written waiver will
be deemed to be a continuing waiver unless specifically stated therein, and each
such waiver will operate only as to the specific term or condition waived and
shall not constitute a waiver of such term or condition for the future or as to
any act other than that specifically waived.
14. SEVERABILITY. If, for any reason, any provision of this Employment
Agreement is held invalid, such invalidity will not affect any other provision
of this Employment Agreement, and each provision will to the full extent
consistent with law continue in full force and effect. If
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any provision of this Employment Agreement is held invalid in part, such
invalidity will in no way affect the rest of such provision, and the rest of
such provision, together with all other provisions of this Employment Agreement,
will, to the full extent consistent with law, continue in full force and effect.
15. NOTICES. Any notice, consent, waiver and other communications required
or permitted pursuant to the provisions of this Employment Agreement must be in
writing and will be deemed to have been properly given (a) when delivered by
hand; (b) when sent by telecopier (with acknowledgment of complete
transmission), provided that a copy is mailed by U.S. certified mail, return
receipt requested; (c) three (3) days after sent by certified mail, return
receipt requested; or (d) one (1) day after deposit with a nationally recognized
overnight delivery service, in each case to the appropriate addresses and
telecopier numbers set forth below:
If to the Company:
▇▇▇▇ True Temper, Inc.
c/o ▇▇▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇▇, Inc.
▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇▇
▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇, ▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇
Attn: ▇▇▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇▇
Fax: (▇▇▇) ▇▇▇-▇▇▇▇
With a copy to:
▇▇▇▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇ & ▇▇▇▇▇ LLP
▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇▇
▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇, ▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇
Attn.: ▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇▇▇▇▇▇, Esq.
Fax: (▇▇▇) ▇▇▇-▇▇▇▇
If to Executive:
▇▇▇▇▇▇ ▇. ▇▇▇▇, ▇▇.
Each party will be entitled to specify a different address for the receipt
of subsequent notices by giving written notice thereof to the other party in
accordance with this SECTION 15.
16. THIRD PARTY BENEFICIARIES. Nothing herein expressed or implied is
intended or shall be construed to confer upon or give to any person or entity,
other than the parties to this Employment Agreement and their respective
permitted successors and assigns, any rights or remedies under or by reason of
this Employment Agreement.
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17. HEADINGS. The headings and other captions in this Employment Agreement
are included solely for convenience of reference and will not control the
meaning and interpretation of any provision of this Employment Agreement.
18. GOVERNING LAW; ARBITRATION. This Employment Agreement has been executed
in the State of Pennsylvania, and its validity, interpretation, performance, and
enforcement will be governed by the laws of such state, except with respect to
conflicts of laws principles. Except for disputes arising out of an alleged
violation of the covenants set forth in the Confidentiality, Inventions,
Non-Competition and Non-Solicitation Agreement, any controversy or claim arising
out of or relating to any provision of this Employment Agreement or any other
document or agreement referred to herein shall be resolved by arbitration. The
arbitration process shall be instigated by either party giving written notice to
the other of the desire for arbitration and the factual allegations underlying
the basis for the dispute. The arbitration shall be conducted by such
alternative dispute resolution service as is agreed to by the parties, or,
failing such agreement within thirty (30) days after such dispute arises, by
arbitrators selected as described below in accordance with the rules and
procedures established by the American Arbitration Association. Only a person
who is a practicing lawyer admitted to a state bar may serve as an arbitrator.
Each party shall select one arbitrator, and those arbitrators shall choose a
third arbitrator; these arbitrators shall constitute the panel. The American
Arbitration Association rules for employment arbitration shall control any
discovery conducted in connection with the arbitration. The expenses of
arbitration (other than attorneys' fees) shall be shared as determined by
arbitration. Each side to the claim or controversy shall pay their own
attorneys' fees. Any result reached by the panel shall be binding on all parties
to the arbitration, and no appeal may be taken. It is agreed that any party to
any award rendered in such arbitration proceeding may seek a judgment upon the
award and that judgment may be entered thereon by any court having jurisdiction.
The arbitration shall be conducted in the State of Pennsylvania.
19. NON-ASSIGNABILITV/BINDING EFFECT. This Employment Agreement shall not
be assignable by either party without the prior written consent of the other
party. This Employment Agreement will be binding upon and inure to the benefit
of Executive, the Company, and their respective successors and permitted
assigns.
20. NO STRICT CONSTRUCTION. The language used in this Employment Agreement
will be deemed to be the language chosen by the parties to express their mutual
intent, and no rule of strict construction will be applied against any person.
[Remainder of Page Intentionally Blank; Signature Page to Follow]
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company has caused this Employment Agreement to be
executed by its duly authorized officer and Executive has signed this Employment
Agreement, as of the date first above written.
▇▇▇▇ TRUE TEMPER, INC.
By: /s/ ▇▇▇▇▇ ▇. ▇▇▇▇▇▇▇
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Its: Chief Operating Officer
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EXECUTIVE
▇▇▇▇▇▇ ▇. ▇▇▇▇ ▇▇.
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EXHIBIT A
CONFIDENTIALITY, INVENTIONS,
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NON-COMPETITION AND NON-SOLICITATION AGREEMENT
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This Confidentiality, Inventions, Non-Competition and Non-Solicitation
Agreement (the "Agreement") is entered into this ___ day of _________ 2004 by
and between CHATT Holdings LLC, its successors or assigns (the "Company") and
__________ (the "Executive"). This Agreement sets forth the entire agreement
between the parties hereto concerning the subject matter hereof and supersedes
all prior agreements and understandings concerning the subject matter hereof. In
consideration of employment by the Company and/or its Affiliates (as defined in
Section 2(b) below) of Executive, which Executive acknowledges to be good and
valuable consideration for the Executive's obligations hereunder, the Company
and Executive agree as follows:
1. The Business.
Executive acknowledges that the Company and its Affiliates are engaged
in the business of (i) manufacturing, marketing and distributing
long-handled tools, wheelbarrows, hose reels, striking tools, pruning
implements, pots and planters, snow tools, lawn carts, repair handles,
garden hoses, and decorative accessories for the lawn and garden, and
(ii) conducting such other activities as are undertaken (or are
proposed or contemplated to be undertaken) from time to time by the
Company and each of its Affiliates as a result of future acquisitions
or otherwise (collectively, the "Business").
2. Confidential Information.
(a) Executive acknowledges that the Confidential Information (as defined
below) constitutes a protectible business interest of the Company and
its Affiliates, and covenants and agrees that at all times during the
period of Executive's employment, and at all times after termination of
such employment, Executive will not, directly or indirectly, disclose,
furnish, make available or utilize any Confidential Information other
than in the course of performing duties as an employee of the Company
and/or its Affiliates. Executive will abide by Company policies and
rules as may be established from time to time by it for the protection
of its Confidential Information. Executive agrees that in the course of
employment with the Company, Executive will not bring to the Company's
offices or use, disclose to the Company, or induce the Company to use,
any confidential information or documents belonging to others.
Executive's obligations under this Section 2(a) with respect to
Confidential Information will survive termination of Executive's
employment with the Company, and will terminate only at such time (if
any) as the Confidential Information in question becomes generally
known to the public other than through a breach of Executive's
obligations under this Agreement.
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(b) As used in this Agreement, the term "Confidential Information" means
any and all confidential, proprietary or trade secret information,
whether disclosed, directly or indirectly, verbally, in writing or by
any other means in tangible or intangible form, including that which is
conceived or developed by Executive, applicable to or in any way
related to: (i) the present or future business of the Company or any of
its Affiliates (as defined below); (ii) the research and development of
the Company or any of its Affiliates; or (iii) the business of any
client, vendor, supplier or distributor of the Company or any of its
Affiliates. Such Confidential Information includes the following
property or information of the Company and its Affiliates, by way of
example and without limitation, trade secrets, processes, formulas,
data, program documentation, customer lists, designs, drawings,
algorithms, source code, object code, know-how, improvements,
inventions, licenses, techniques, all plans or strategies for
marketing, development and pricing, business plans, financial
statements, profit margins and all information concerning existing or
potential clients, suppliers or vendors. Confidential Information also
means all similar information disclosed to the Company or any Affiliate
by third parties which is subject to confidentiality obligations. The
term "Affiliates" means (i) all persons or entities controlling,
controlled by or under common control with the Company, (ii) all
companies or entities in which the Company owns an equity interest and
(iii) all predecessors, successors and assigns of the those Affiliates
identified in (i) and (ii).
3. Return of Materials.
Upon termination of employment with the Company, and regardless of the
reason for such termination, Executive will leave with, or promptly
return to, the Company all documents, records, notebooks, magnetic
tapes, disks or other materials, including all copies, in Executive's
possession or control which contain Confidential Information or any
other information concerning the Company, any of its Affiliates or any
of their respective products, services or clients, whether prepared by
the Executive or others. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Executive
shall be entitled to retain the Executive's personal effects provided
any Confidential Information is removed therefrom.
4. Inventions as Sole Property of the Company.
(a) Executive covenants and agrees that all Inventions (as defined below)
shall be the sole and exclusive property of the Company.
(b) As used in this Agreement, the term "Inventions" means any and all
inventions, developments, discoveries, improvements, works of
authorship, concepts or ideas, or expressions thereof, whether or not
subject to patents, copyright, trademark, trade secret protection or
other intellectual property right protection (in the United States or
elsewhere), and whether or not reduced to practice, conceived or
developed by Executive while employed with the Company and/or any
Affiliate of the Company or within one (1) year following termination
of such employment which relate to or result from the actual or
anticipated business, work, research or
A-2
investigation of the Company or any of its Affiliates or which are
suggested by or result from any task assigned to or performed by
Executive for the Company or any of its Affiliates.
(c) Executive acknowledges that all original works of authorship which are
made by the Executive (solely or jointly) are works made for hire under
the United States Copyright Act (17 U.S.C., et seq.).
(d) Executive agrees to promptly disclose to the Company all Inventions,
all original works of authorship and all work product relating thereto.
This disclosure will include complete and accurate copies of all source
code, object code or machine-readable copies, documentation, work
notes, flow-charts, diagrams, test data, reports, samples and other
tangible evidence or results (collectively, "Tangible Embodiments") of
such Inventions, works of authorship and work product. All Tangible
Embodiments of any Invention, work of authorship or work product
related thereto will be deemed to have been assigned to the Company as
a result of the act of expressing any Invention or work of authorship
therein.
(e) Executive hereby assigns to the Company (together with the right to
prosecute or ▇▇▇ for infringements or other violations of the same) the
entire worldwide right, title and interest to any such Inventions or
works made for hire, and Executive agrees to perform, during and after
employment, all acts deemed necessary or desirable by the Company to
permit and assist it, at the Company's expense, in registering,
recording, obtaining, maintaining, defending, enforcing and assigning
Inventions or works made for hire in any and all countries. Executive
hereby irrevocably designates and appoints the Company and its duly
authorized officers and agents as Executive's agents and
attorneys-in-fact to act for and on Executive's behalf and instead of
Executive, to execute and file any documents and to do all other
lawfully permitted acts to further the above purposes with the same
legal force and effect as if executed by Executive; this designation
and appointment constitutes an irrevocable power of attorney and is
coupled with an interest.
(f) Without limiting the generality of any other provision of this Section
4, Executive hereby authorizes the Company and each of its Affiliates
(and their respective successors) to make any desired changes to any
part of any Invention, to combine it with other materials in any manner
desired, and to withhold Executive's identity in connection with any
distribution or use thereof alone or in combination with other
materials.
(g) This Agreement does not apply to any invention for which no equipment,
supplies, facility or trade secret information of the Company or any
Affiliate was used and which was developed entirely on Executive's own
time, unless (1) the invention relates (a) to the business of the
Company or any Affiliate or (b) to the Company's or any Affiliate's
actual demonstrably anticipated research or development; or (2) the
invention results from any work performed by Executive for the Company
or any Affiliate.
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(h) The obligations of Executive set forth in this Section 4 (including,
but not limited to, the assignment obligations) will continue beyond
the termination of Executive's employment with respect to Inventions
conceived or made by Executive alone or in concert with others during
Executive's employment with the Company and during the one (1) year
thereafter, whether pursuant to this Agreement or otherwise. These
obligations will be binding upon Executive and Executive's executors,
administrators and other representatives.
5. List of Prior Inventions.
All Inventions which Executive has made prior to employment by the
Company or any Affiliate (including without limitation ▇▇▇▇ True
Temper, Inc.) are excluded from the scope of this Agreement. As a
matter of record, Executive has set forth on Annex I hereto a complete
list of those Inventions which might relate to the Company's Business
and which have been made by Executive prior to employment with the
Company. Executive represents that such list is complete. If no list
is attached, Executive represents that there are no prior Inventions.
6. Non-Competition.
(a) Executive acknowledges that: (i) the Company and its Affiliates are and
will be engaged in the Business during the term of the Executive's
employment and thereafter; (ii) the Company and its Affiliates are and
will be actively engaged in the Business throughout the world; (iii)
Executive is one of a limited number of persons who will be developing
the Business; (iv) Executive has and will continue to occupy a position
of trust and confidence with the Company after the date hereof and
during the term of the Executive's employment Executive will become
familiar with the Company's (and its Affiliates') trade secrets and
with other proprietary and confidential information concerning the
Company (and its Affiliates) and the Business; (v) the agreements and
covenants contained in this Agreement are essential to protect the
Company, its Affiliates and the goodwill of the Business and are a
condition precedent to the sale by the Company to Executive of certain
Common Units, pursuant to the Subscription Agreement between the
parties, dated as of the date hereof, and the participation in the
exchange of equity held by Executive for strips of common and preferred
units of the Company pursuant to the Equity Term Sheet, dated June 1,
2004; (vi) Executive's employment with the Company and/or its
Affiliates has special, unique and extraordinary value to the Company
and its Affiliates and the Company would be irreparably damaged if
Executive were to provide services to any person or entity in violation
of the provisions of this Section 6; and (vii) Executive has means to
support Executive and Executive's dependents other than by engaging in
the Business, and the provisions of this Section 6 will not impair such
ability.
(b) Executive will not, during the Restricted Period (as defined below),
anywhere in the world (the "Restricted Territory"), directly or
indirectly (whether as an owner, partner, shareholder, agent, officer,
director, employee, independent contractor,
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consultant, or otherwise) own, operate, manage, control, invest in,
perform services for, or engage or participate in any manner in, or
render services to (alone or in association with any person or entity)
or otherwise assist any person or entity that engages in, or owns,
invests in, operates, manages or controls any venture or enterprise
that engages in, the Business. The term "Restricted Period" means the
period of time from the date of the closing of the purchase and sale
of shares, pursuant to the Stock Purchase Agreement by and among ATT
Holding Co., the Shareholders of ATT Holding Co., the Warrantholders
of ATT Holding Co., Wind Point Investors V, L.P., CHATT Holdings,
Inc., and the Company, dated June 1, 2004, until two (2) years after
the termination for any reason of Executive's employment relationship
with the Company and/or any Affiliate or any successor thereto
(including any termination based on non-renewal of any employment
agreement or arrangement). The Restricted Period shall be extended for
a period equal to any time period that Executive is in violation of
this Section 6. Nothing contained in this Section 6 shall be construed
to prevent Executive from investing in the stock of any competing
corporation listed on a national securities exchange or traded in the
over-the-counter market, but only if Executive is not involved in the
business of said corporation and if Executive and Executive's
associates (as such term is defined in Regulation 14(A) promulgated
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as in effect on the date
hereof), collectively, do not own more than an aggregate of one
percent (1%) of the stock of such corporation.
(c) Scope/Severability. The parties acknowledge that the business of the
Company and its Affiliates is and will be national and international in
scope and thus the covenants in this Section 6 would be ineffective if
the covenants were to be limited to a particular geographic area. If
any court of competent jurisdiction at any time deems the Restricted
Period unreasonably lengthy, or the Restricted Territory unreasonably
extensive, or any of the covenants set forth in this Section 6 not
fully enforceable, the other provisions of this Section 6, and this
Agreement in general, will nevertheless stand and, to the full extent
consistent with law, continue in full force and effect, and it is the
intention and desire of the parties that the court treat any provisions
of this Agreement which are not fully enforceable as having been
modified to the extent deemed necessary by the court to render them
reasonable and enforceable and that the court enforce them to such
extent (for example, that the Restricted Period be deemed to be the
longest period permissible by law, but not in excess of the length
provided for in Section 6(b), and the Restricted Territory be deemed to
comprise the largest territory permissible by law under the
circumstances but not in excess of the territory provided for in
Section 6(b)).
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7. Non-Solicitation.
(a) Executive will not, during the Restricted Period, directly or
indirectly (whether as an owner, partner, shareholder, agent, officer,
director, employee, independent contractor, consultant, or otherwise)
with or through any individual or entity:
i. employ, engage or explicitly solicit for employment any individual
who is, or was at any time during the twelve-month period immediately prior
to the termination of Executive's employment with the Company and/or any
Affiliate for any reason, an employee of the Company or any of its
Affiliates or otherwise seek to adversely influence or alter such
individual's relationship with the Company or any of its Affiliates; or
ii. solicit or encourage any individual or entity that is, or was
during the twelve-month period immediately prior to the termination of
Executive's employment with the Company or any Affiliate for any reason, a
customer, supplier or vendor of the Company or any Affiliate to terminate
or otherwise alter his, her or its relationship with the Company or any
Affiliate.
(b) The Restricted Period shall be extended for a period equal to any time
period that Executive is in violation of this Section 7.
8. Equitable Remedies.
Executive acknowledges and agrees that the agreements and covenants
set forth in this Agreement are reasonable and necessary for the
protection of the Company's and its Affiliates' business interests,
that irreparable injury will result to the Company and its Affiliates
if Executive breaches any of the terms of said covenants, and that in
the event of Executive's actual or threatened breach of any such
covenants, the Company and its Affiliates will have no adequate remedy
at law. Executive accordingly agrees that, in the event of any actual
or threatened breach by Executive of any of said covenants, the
Company and its Affiliates will be entitled to immediate injunctive
and other equitable relief, without posting bond or other security and
without the necessity of showing actual monetary damages. Nothing in
this Section 8 will be construed as prohibiting the Company or any
Affiliate from pursuing any other remedies available to them for such
breach or threatened breach, including the recovery of any damages
that they are able to prove.
9. Breach.
(a) Executive's breach of any of the Executive's obligations under this
Agreement will be deemed a material breach of any employment agreement
or arrangement Executive has with the Company or any of its Affiliates
and will constitute cause or due cause or the like for termination by
the Company and/or its Affiliates, as appropriate.
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(b) In the event that the Company and/or its Affiliates, as appropriate,
terminates Executive without cause or due cause or the like or
Executive voluntarily resigns, Executive will receive severance
payments, to the extent entitled under any employment agreement or
arrangement, only if Executive is not in breach of any of the
provisions in this Agreement.
10. No Right to Employment.
No provision of this Agreement shall give Executive any right to
continue in the employ of the Company or any of its Affiliates, create
any inference as to the length of employment of Executive, affect the
right of the Company or its Affiliates to terminate the employment of
Executive, with or without cause, or give Executive any right to
participate in any welfare or benefit plan or other program of the
Company or any of its Affiliates.
11. Modification and Waiver.
This Agreement may not be modified or amended or terminated except by
an instrument in writing signed by the parties. No term or condition
of this Agreement will be deemed to have been waived, except by
written instrument of the party charged with such waiver. No such
written waiver will be deemed to be a continuing waiver unless
specifically stated therein, and each such waiver will operate only as
to the specific term or condition waived and shall not constitute a
waiver of such term or condition for the future or as to any act other
than that specifically waived.
12. Severability.
Executive acknowledges that the agreements and covenants contained in
this Agreement are essential to protect the Company and its Affiliates
and their goodwill. Each of the covenants in this Agreement will be
construed as independent of any other covenants or other provisions of
this Agreement. It is the intention and desire of the parties that the
court treat any provisions of this Agreement which are not fully
enforceable as having been modified to the extent deemed necessary by
the court to render them reasonable and enforceable and that the court
enforce them to such extent.
13. Notices.
Any notice, consent, waiver and other communications required or
permitted pursuant to the provisions of this Agreement must be in
writing and will be deemed to have been properly given (a) when
delivered by hand; (b) when sent by telecopier (with acknowledgment of
complete transmission), provided that a copy is mailed by U.S.
certified mail, return receipt requested; (c) three (3) days after
sent by certified mail, return receipt requested; or (d) one (1) day
after deposit with a nationally recognized overnight delivery service,
in each case to the appropriate addresses and telecopier numbers set
forth below:
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If to the Company:
CHATT Holdings LLC
c/o ▇▇▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇▇, Inc.
▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇▇
▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇, ▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇
Attn: ▇▇▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇▇
Fax: (▇▇▇) ▇▇▇-▇▇▇▇
With a copy to:
▇▇▇▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇ & ▇▇▇▇▇ LLP
▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇▇
▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇, ▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇
Attn.: ▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇▇▇▇▇▇, Esq.
Fax: (▇▇▇) ▇▇▇-▇▇▇▇
If to Executive:
Each party will be entitled to specify a different address for the
receipt of subsequent notices by giving written notice thereof to the
other party in accordance with this Section 13.
14. Headings.
The headings and other captions in this Agreement are included solely
for convenience of reference and will not control the meaning and
interpretation of any provision of this Agreement.
15. Governing Law.
This Agreement has been executed in the State of Pennsylvania, and its
validity, interpretation, performance, and enforcement will be
governed by the laws of such state, except with respect to conflicts
of laws principles.
16. Binding Effect.
This Agreement will be binding, upon and inure to the benefit of
Executive, the Company, and their respective successors and permitted
assigns; provided, however, that Executive may not assign this
Agreement or any part hereof.
17. Survival.
The provisions in this Agreement shall survive the termination of
Executive's employment with the Company.
18. Compliance.
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In order to monitor compliance with the terms of this Agreement,
Executive agrees to give written notice, including a pertinent
description, to the Company of each position of employment, ownership
of more than one percent (1%) of the stock of any corporation,
participation with another entity or organization (except for
religious institutions or charitable organizations not related to the
Business) which Executive obtains during the Restricted Period.
19. No Strict Construction.
The language used in this Agreement will be deemed to be the language
chosen by the parties to express their mutual intent, and no rule of
strict construction will be applied against any person.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company has caused this Agreement to be
executed by its duly authorized officer and Executive has signed this Agreement,
as of the date written below.
EXECUTIVE:
DATE: ________, 2004
CHATT HOLDINGS LLC
BY:
ITS:
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EXHIBIT B
SEPARATION AGREEMENT AND GENERAL RELEASE
----------------------------------------
▇▇▇▇ TRUE TEMPER, INC. ("COMPANY"), and ("Executive"), agree that
this Separation Agreement and General Release ("AGREEMENT") sets forth their
complete agreement and understanding regarding the termination of Executive's
employment with Company.
1. Separation Date. Executive's employment with Company will terminate
effective _______________ (the "SEPARATION DATE"). Executive agrees to return
all Company property to Company no later than the Separation Date. Except as
specifically provided below, Executive shall not be entitled to receive any
benefits of employment following the Separation Date.
2. Consideration of Company. In consideration for the releases and
covenants by Executive in this Agreement, Company will provide Executive with
the following: INSERT CONSIDERATION AS SET FORTH IN EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
3. Executive Release of Rights. Executive (defined for the purpose of this
Paragraph 3 as Executive and Executive's agents, representatives, attorneys,
assigns, heirs, executors, and administrators) irrevocably, fully, and
unconditionally releases the Released Parties (defined as the Company, ATT
Holding Co., CHATT Holdings, Inc., CHATT Holdings LLC, ▇▇▇▇▇▇ ▇▇▇▇▇▇ Partners
IV, L.P., and each of their affiliated companies, parents, subsidiaries,
predecessors, successors, assigns, divisions, related entities and any of their
past or present employees, officers, agents, insurers, attorneys,
administrators, officials, directors, shareholders, employee benefit plans, and
the sponsors, fiduciaries, or administrators of the Company's employee benefit
plans) from any and all liability, claims, demands, actions, causes of action,
suits, grievances, debts, sums of money, agreements, promises, damages, back and
front pay, costs, expenses, attorneys' fees, and remedies of any type, arising
or that may have arisen out of or in connection with Executive's employment with
or termination of employment from the Company, from the beginning of time to the
date hereof, including but not limited to claims, actions or liability under:
(1) Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C.(Section)2000 et seq.,
the Civil Rights Act of 1991, the Civil Rights Act of 1866, the Age
Discrimination in Employment Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990,
42 U.S.C.(Section)12101 et seq., the Fair Labor Standards Act, 29
U.S.C.(Section)201 et seq., the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993, 29
U.S.C.(Section)2601 et seq., the Workers' Adjustment and Retraining Notification
Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, 29 U.S.C.(Section)1001
et seq., Pennsylvania Human Relations Act Pa., Stat. ▇▇▇. tit.43,(Sections)951
et seq., all as amended; (2) any other federal, state or local statute,
ordinance, or regulation regarding employment, termination of employment, or
discrimination in employment, and (3) the common law relating to employment
contracts, wrongful discharge. defamation, or any other matter.
4. Waiver of Reinstatement. Executive waives any reinstatement or future
employment with Company and agrees never to apply for employment or otherwise
seek to be hired, rehired, employed, re-employed, or reinstated by Company or
any of its affiliated companies or corporations.
5. No Disparagement or Encouragement of Claims. Executive agrees not to
make any oral or written statement that disparages or places any Released Party
in a false or negative
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light. Executive further agrees not to encourage or assist any person who files
a lawsuit, charge, claim or complaint against the Released Parties unless
Executive is required to render such assistance pursuant to a lawful subpoena or
other legal obligation. The Board of Directors (and each of its individual
members) and the Chief Executive Officer of the Company agree not to make
(outside the Company; or within the Company, except as may be reasonably
necessary to conduct the business of the Company) any oral or written statement
that disparages or places Executive in a false or negative light; and these
individuals further agree not to encourage or assist any person who files a
lawsuit, charge, claim or complaint against Executive unless such individuals
are required to render such assistance pursuant to a lawful subpoena or other
legal obligation.
6. Cooperation of Executive. Executive agrees to cooperate with Company in
any reasonable manner as Company may request, including but not limited to
furnishing information to and otherwise consulting with the Company; and
assisting Company in any litigation or potential litigation or other legal
matters, including but not limited to meeting with and fully answering the
questions of Company or its representatives or agents, and testifying and
preparing to testify at any deposition or trial. Company agrees to compensate
Executive for any reasonable out of pocket expenses incurred as a result of such
cooperation.
7. Non-admission/Inadmissibility. This Agreement does not constitute an
admission by Company that any action it took with respect to Executive was
wrongful, unlawful or in violation of any local, state, or federal act, statute,
or constitution, or susceptible of inflicting any damages or injury on
Executive, and Company specifically denies any such wrongdoing or violation.
This Agreement is entered into solely to resolve fully all matters related to or
arising out of Executive's employment with and termination from Company, and its
execution, and implementation may not be used as evidence, and shall not be
admissible in a subsequent proceeding of any kind, except one alleging a breach
of this Agreement.
8. Severability. The provisions of this Agreement shall be severable and
the invalidity of any provision shall not affect the validity of the other
provisions.
9. Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in
accordance with laws and judicial decisions of the State of Pennsylvania,
without regard to its principles of conflicts of laws.
10. Scope of Agreement. Executive understands that he remains bound to
those provisions in the Executive's Employment Agreement, signed on June 28,
2004, which survive the termination of the Executive's employment, including but
not limited to, those provisions in Paragraphs 9-11, 14, 19 and 20 of such
Employment Agreement. Except as specifically set forth in such provisions, this
Agreement contains the entire agreement and understanding between Executive and
Company concerning the matters described herein, and supersedes all prior
agreements, discussions, negotiations, understandings and proposals of the
parties. The terms of this Agreement cannot be changed except in a subsequent
document signed by both parties.
11. Revocation Period. Executive has the right to revoke this Agreement for
up to seven days after he signs it. In order to revoke this Agreement, Executive
must sign and send a written notice of the decision to do so, addressed to
[NAME] at [INSERT TITLE, AND ADDRESS], and that written notice must be received
by Company no later than the eighth day after Executive signed this Agreement.
If Executive revokes this Agreement, Executive will not be entitled to
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any of the consideration from Company described in paragraph 2 above.
12. Voluntary Execution of Agreement. Executive acknowledges that:
a. Executive has carefully read this Agreement and fully understands
its meaning;
b. Executive had the opportunity to take up to 21 days after
receiving this Agreement to decide whether to sign it;
c. Executive understands that the Company is hereby advising him, in
writing, to consult with an attorney before signing it;
d. Executive is signing this Agreement, knowingly, voluntarily, and
without any coercion or duress; and
e. everything Executive is receiving for signing this Agreement is
described in the Agreement itself, and no other promises or
representations have been made to cause Executive to sign it.
13. Nondisclosure. Executive shall not disclose the contents or
substance of this Agreement to any third parties, other than the Executive's
attorneys, accountants, or as required by law and shall instruct each of the
foregoing not to disclose the same.
COMPANY
By:
------------------------------- ------------------------------
Executive Signature
Title:
-----------------------------
Dated: Dated:
------------------------- -----------------------------
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