<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SCHEDULE 14A
(Rule 14a-101)
INFORMATION REQUIRED IN PROXY STATEMENT
SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION
Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 (Amendment No. )
<S> <C>
Filed by the Registrant : |X|
Filed by a Party other than the Registrant |_|
Check the appropriate box:
|_| Preliminary Proxy Statement |_| Confidential, For Use of the Commission Only
(as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2))
|X| Definitive Proxy Statement
|_| Definitive Additional Materials
|_| Soliciting Material Pursuant to Rule 14a-11(c) or Rule 14a-12
Shore Bancshares, Inc.
(Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
N/A
(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if Other Than the Registrant)
Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):
|X| No fee required.
|_| Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1) and
0-11.
(1) Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies: N/A
(2) Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies: N/A
(3) Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed pursuant to
Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (set forth the amount on which the filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined): N/A
(4) Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction: N/A
(5) Total fee paid: N/A
|_| Fee paid previously with preliminary materials: N/A
|_| Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange
Act Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee was
paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement number,
or the form or schedule and the date of its filing.
(1) Amount previously paid:
(2) Form, Schedule or Registration Statement no.:
(3) Filing Party:
(4) Date Filed:
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
SHORE BANCSHARES, INC.
109 North Commerce Street
PO Box 400
Centreville, Maryland 21617
(410) 758-1600
NOTICE OF THE ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
To the Stockholders of SHORE BANCSHARES, INC.:
Notice is hereby given that the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Shore
Bancshares, Inc. will be held at The Centreville National Bank of Maryland, 109
North Commerce Street, Centreville, Maryland. The meeting will convene at 6:15
p.m., local time, with a social beginning at 5:30 p.m., local time, on Tuesday,
April 18, 2000, for the following purposes:
1. To re-elect three Class I Directors to Bancshares' Board of Directors
to serve until the 2003 Annual Meeting.
2. To ratify the appointment of Stegman & Company as independent
certified public accountants of Shore Bancshares, Inc. for the fiscal
year ending December 31, 2000.
3. To transact such other business as may properly come before the
meeting or any adjournment thereof.
Stockholders of record at the close of business on March 8, 2000 will be
entitled to notice of and to vote at the meeting. All stockholders are cordially
invited to attend the meeting in person. So that we may make seating
arrangements and preparations for the social, we request your cooperation in
notifying us of your attendance. Therefore, if you plan to attend the Annual
Meeting, please check the appropriate box on your proxy card. If you plan to
attend the Annual Meeting but your shares are held in the name of a broker or
other nominee, please contact Pamela C. Satchell, Vice President, The
Centreville National Bank, PO Box 400, Centreville, Maryland 21617 or call
1-877-758-1600 or 410-758-1600.
A majority of the outstanding shares of Common Stock must be represented at the
meeting, either in person or by proxy, in order to transact business. Whether or
not you attend the meeting in person, it is important that your shares be
represented and voted. You may vote by completing, signing and dating your proxy
card, and returning it as soon as possible in the postage-paid envelope. You may
change your proxy later or vote in person at the meeting if you wish.
By order of the Board of Directors,
Mary Catherine Quimby
Secretary to the Board of Directors
March 20, 2000
<PAGE>
[THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]
<PAGE>
SHORE BANCSHARES, INC.
109 North Commerce Street
PO Box 400
Centreville, Maryland 21617
(410) 758-1600
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PROXY STATEMENT
FOR
2000 ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
This Proxy Statement is furnished in connection with the solicitation by Shore
Bancshares, Inc. ("Bancshares") of proxies to be voted at the Annual Meeting of
Stockholders to be held on April 18, 2000, at 6:15 p.m., local time, with a
social beginning at 5:30 p.m., local time, at The Centreville National Bank of
Maryland (the "Bank"), 109 North Commerce Street, Centreville, Maryland, and at
any adjournment thereof. The expense of preparing, printing, and mailing the
proxies and solicitation materials will be borne by Bancshares. In addition to
solicitations by mail, Bancshares may solicit proxies in person or by telephone,
and arrange for brokerage houses and other custodians, nominees, and fiduciaries
to send proxies and proxy material to their principals at the expense of
Bancshares. The approximate date on which this proxy statement and attached form
of proxy will be mailed to stockholders is March 20, 2000.
Holders of record at the close of business on March 8, 2000 (the "Record Date")
of outstanding shares of Bancshares common stock, par value $0.01 per share
("Common Stock") are entitled to notice of and to vote at the meeting. As of
March 8, 2000, the number of shares of outstanding Common Stock entitled to vote
is 1,913,910 shares. In addition to the number of shares outstanding, options
underlying 2,725 shares under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan and options
underlying 1,304 shares under the Stock Option Plan were granted and are
immediately exercisable subject to certain conditions. Each share of Common
Stock is entitled to one vote. There is no cumulative voting. Shares represented
by any proxy properly executed and received pursuant to this solicitation will
be voted in accordance with the directions of the stockholder; if no direction
is given, the proxy will be voted for proposals 1 and 2 and in the discretion of
management as to any other matters that may properly come before the meeting.
The proxy may be revoked by a stockholder at any time prior to its use by
execution of another proxy bearing a later date, by written notice to any of the
persons named in the proxy, at Bancshares' address, or by oral or written
statement at the meeting.
Holders of Common Stock will be asked (1) to re-elect three Class I Directors to
Bancshares' Board of Directors to serve until the 2003 Annual Meeting; and (2)
to ratify the appointment of Stegman & Company as independent certified public
accountants of Bancshares and the Bank for the fiscal year ending December 31,
2000.
Page 1 of 13
<PAGE>
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
(Proposal 1)
The Bancshares Board is divided into three classes with respect to the time for
which the Directors may hold office. Each class is elected in successive years
for a three-year term. The term of office for Class I Directors expires at the
2000 Annual Meeting. The following three individuals, each of whom presently
serve on the Board and was previously elected by stockholders, have been
nominated by the Board for re-election: Thomas K. Helfenbein, Susanne K. Nuttle,
and Wm. Maurice Sanger. A brief biographical sketch of each nominee and each
continuing director follows.
Each nominee must be elected by a plurality of the votes cast by the holders of
shares of Common Stock present in person or represented by proxy at the Annual
Meeting at which a quorum is present. For purposes of the election of directors,
abstentions and broker non-votes do not affect the plurality vote.
Re-election of Class I - Term Expires in 2003
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THOMAS K. HELFENBEIN Bank Director and Bancshares Director Since 1999
Mr. Helfenbein, age 55, is Funeral Director and Partner of Fellows, Helfenbein &
Newnam Funeral Homes and is a Principal of Fleegle - Helfenbein Funeral Home,
PA. He is also a member of Eastern Shore Genesis LLC and President of F.H. & N.
Insurance Agency, a final expense insurance agency.
SUSANNE K. NUTTLE Bank Director Since 1997 and Bancshares Director Since 1998
Mrs. Nuttle, age 67, was President and Director of Kent Savings & Loan
Association when the Bank acquired the financial institution on April 1, 1997.
Mrs. Nuttle served as Vice President of the Bank from April 1, 1997 until she
retired on December 31, 1997.
WM. MAURICE SANGER Bank Director Since 1992 and Bancshares Director Since 1996
Mr. Sanger, age 55, is President of F.W., Inc., T/A Western Auto, a retail
business. He is a sales agent for Champion Realty, a real estate company. Mr.
Sanger is also President of Cloverbay Development Corporation, a real estate
development and residential construction corporation.
The Board of Directors recommends a vote "FOR" election of these directors.
Page 2 of 13
<PAGE>
DIRECTORS CONTINUING IN OFFICE
Class II - Term Expires in 2001
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
J. ROBERT BARTON Bank Director Since 1981 and Bancshares Director since 1996
Mr. Barton, age 69, was a Senior Vice President of the Bank from 1979 until July
1, 1992 when he was appointed as President. He served as President and CEO from
July 1, 1992 until June 30, 1995 when he retired.
PAUL M. BOWMAN Bank Director since 1997 and Bancshares Director Since 1998
Mr. Bowman, age 52, served as a Director of Kent Savings & Loan Association
until the Bank acquired the financial institution on April 1, 1997. He is an
attorney in the Law Office of Paul M. Bowman.
DANIEL T. CANNON Bank Director Since 1986 and Bancshares Director Since 1996
Mr. Cannon, age 50, was appointed Comptroller of the Bank in 1978, served as
Cashier and Comptroller of the Bank from 1980 until his appointment as Executive
Vice President July 1, 1992. He served as Executive Vice President until July 1,
1995 when he was appointed President, his current position. Mr. Cannon also has
served as President of Bancshares since 1996.
MARK M. FREESTATE Bank Director since 1982 and Bancshares Director since 1996
Mr. Freestate, age 47, is the President of W.M. Freestate & Son, Inc., an
insurance agency.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Class III - Term Expires in 2002
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C>
DAVID C. BRYAN Bank Director since 1986 and Bancshares Director since 1996
Mr. Bryan, age 65, is a member in the Law Offices of Fountain, Bryan and Ritter
LLC.
B. VANCE CARMEAN, JR. Bank Director since 1992 and Bancshares Director since 1996
Mr. Carmean, age 59, is President of Carmean Grain, Inc., a grain company.
NEIL R. LECOMPTE Bank Director since 1995 and Bancshares Director since 1996
Mr. LeCompte, age 59, is a Certified Public Accountant in the Accounting Office
of Neil R. LeCompte.
JERRY F. PIERSON Bank Director since 1980 and Bancshares Director since 1996
Mr. Pierson, age 59, is the President of Jerry F. Pierson, Inc., a plumbing and
heating contracting company.
Director Retiring From Office
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WALTER E. SCHMIDT Bank Director since 1987 and Bancshares Director since 1996
Mr. Schmidt, who is Vice President of Schmidt Ventures, Inc., a farming
enterprise, is retiring from the Board when his term expires at this year's
Annual Meeting. Bancshares gratefully acknowledges Mr. Schmidt's thirteen years
of service to the Bank (including four years of service to Bancshares). He
served as Chairman of the Board from April 18, 1995 until April 21, 1998. He has
also served as Chairman of the Audit Committee and Bancshares' and Bank's
Executive Committees.
</TABLE>
Page 3 of 13
<PAGE>
BOARD COMMITTEES
During 1999, each director attended at least 75% of the aggregate of (1) the
total number of meetings of the Board of Directors of the Bank and Bancshares
(held during the period for which that person has been Director) and (2) the
total number of meetings held by all committees of the Board on which that
person served (during the period served).
The full Board of Directors of Bancshares serves as Bancshares nominating
committee. Pursuant to Article II, Section 4 of Bancshares' Bylaws, nominations
by stockholders may be made by written request to the Chairman of the Board or
the President of Bancshares not less than 120 days or more than 180 days prior
to the date of the meeting. As described further in Bancshares' Bylaws, the
notice must set forth (i) all information relating to such proposed nominee that
is required to be disclosed in solicitation in Regulation 14A of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (including the nominee's written consent); and
(ii) certain other information provided by the stockholder, including the name
and address and the class and number of shares of Banchares' stock that is
beneficially owned by the stockholder.
The Board delegates specific functions described below to the four standing
committees.
Bancshares Executive Committee: Directs and transacts any business which may
properly come before Bancshares Board of Directors, except for such business
that the Board only, by law, is authorized to perform. Coordinates activities of
Bank's Board Committees to insure timely and efficient execution of goals. The
Bancshares Executive Committee also recommends payment of dividends for Board
approval. The Committee reviews the By-Laws and Articles of Incorporation of
Banchsares and subsidiaries and recommends changes. This Committee may review
and approve loan requests in excess of lending officers' authorities
Bancshares Audit Committee: Reviews the audit policy and program and recommends
changes to the Board of Directors. Bancshares Audit Committee also recommends
the independent certified public accountant to the Board for stockholder
approval. The Committee meets with the internal and external auditors and
reports to the Board on the findings and oversees the internal control structure
of the Bank. The Committee also monitors regulatory compliance and reporting and
makes recommendations to the Board to maintain or improve the Bank's performance
in that area.
Bank Executive Committee: Directs and transacts any business which may properly
come before the Bank's Board of Directors, except for such business that the
Board only, by law, is authorized to perform. It reviews and recommends salaries
and benefit plans for the executive officers to the Board of Directors. The
committee also acts on matters concerning facilities planning and equipment
needs, and maintenance of an efficient service delivery system. This Committee
may review and approve loan requests in excess of lending officers' authorities.
Bank Asset Liability (ALCO) Committee: The function of the Bank's ALCO Committee
is to monitor the Bank's exposure to interest rate risk and review deposit and
loan pricing. The Committee reviews and recommends earnings' goals for the
Bank's approval. The Committee administers the Investment and Asset Liability
Management policies and reviews and recommends policy changes to the Board. This
Committee also reviews and approves loan requests in excess of lending officers'
authorities, reviews charge-offs and additions to the allowance for loan losses,
and reviews the loan policy and other policies pertinent to the loan function.
It reviews and recommends salaries and benefit plans for all personnel
(excluding executive officers), the personnel policy, and other personnel
Page 4 of 13
<PAGE>
questions or problems to the Board of Directors. Carol I. Brownawell, as CFO,
serves on the Committee as a non-voting member.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COMMITTEE ROSTER
==========================================================================================================
BANCSHARES BANK
----------------------------------- ----------------------------------
NAME BOARD EXECUTIVE AUDIT BOARD EXECUTIVE ALCO
==========================================================================================================
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
J. Robert Barton X X X
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Paul M. Bowman X X X X
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
David C. Bryan X X X
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Daniel T. Cannon X X X
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
B. Vance Carmean, Jr. X* X* X*
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mark M. Freestate X X X X X*
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thomas K. Helfenbein X X X X
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Neil R. LeCompte X X X* X X
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Susanne K. Nuttle X X X
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jerry F. Pierson X X X X*
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wm. Maurice Sanger X X X
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
No. of Meetings in 1999 6 12 6 13 10 10
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Chairman
</TABLE>
DIRECTOR COMPENSATION
Non-employee directors receive an annual retainer of $10,000 and $50 for each
meeting attended. The Chairman of the Board receives an additional fee of $1,000
and each Committee Chairman receives an additional fee of $500. Directors
receive no compensation for attendance at Bancshares meetings.
Page 5 of 13
<PAGE>
BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP OF COMMON STOCK
The following table reflects the beneficial ownership of Common Stock by
directors, executive officers and by stockholders known to management to own
beneficially 5% or more Common Stock as of February 25, 2000, and includes all
shares of Common Stock that may be acquired by such persons within 60 days of
the Record Date. The address of each of the persons named below is the address
of Bancshares.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
==================================================================================================
Number of Percent of
Shares Class
Beneficially Beneficially
Title of Class Name Owned (a) Owned
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Par Value $0.01 J. Robert Barton 13,332 (b) 0.70
Common Stock Paul M. Bowman 3,675 (c) 0.19
David C. Bryan 6,508 (d) 0.34
Daniel T. Cannon 3,675 (e) 0.19
B. Vance Carmean, Jr. 20,100 (f) 1.05
Mark M. Freestate 5,310 (g) 0.28
Thomas K. Helfenbein 250 (h) 0.01
Neil R. LeCompte 750 0.04
Susanne K. Nuttle 600 0.03
Jerry F. Pierson 4,603 (i) 0.24
William Maurice Sanger 13,168 (j) 0.69
All Directors 71,971 3.76
====== ====
All Directors and Executive 72,482 3.79
Executive Officerss ====== ====
as a Group (12 Persons)
==================================================================================================
</TABLE>
Page 6 of 13
<PAGE>
FOOTNOTES TO BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP TABLE:
(a) For each named individual, includes exercisable options to acquire 100
shares. For all directors and executive officers as a group, includes
exercisable options to acquire 1,172 shares.
(b) Includes 13,032 Shares held individually by Louise L. Barton.
(c) Includes 120 Shares held individually by David A. Bowman; 484 Shares held
individually by Elaine M. Bowman; 120 Shares held individually by Elaine M.
Bowman, as Custodian for Erin Reynolds Bowman; 120 Shares held by Elaine M.
Bowman, as Custodian for Jeffrey P. Bowman; 606 Shares held by Paul M.
Bowman, Trustee of the Harry Price Phillips Trust; 975 Shares held jointly
by Thelma B. Gaines and Paul M. Bowman; 300 Shares held by Paul M. Bowman
under an Individual Retirement Account arrangement; and 300 Shares held by
Elaine M. Bowman under an Individual Retirement Account arrangement.
(d) Includes 1,976 Shares held individually by Barbara C. Bryan.
(e) Includes 1,975 Shares held jointly by Daniel T. Cannon and Sandra F.Cannon.
(f) Includes 10,000 Shares held individually by Kathleen H. Carmean.
(g) Includes 80 Shares held jointly by Mark M. Freestate and John Stuart
Freestate; 80 Shares held jointly by Mark M. Freestate and William M.
Freestate, II; and 400 Shares held by W. M. Freestate & Son, Inc.
(h) Includes 115 Shares held jointly by Thomas K. Helfenbein and Barbara A.
Helfenbein.
(i) Includes 1,008 Shares held jointly by Jerry F. Pierson and Bonnie K.
Pierson.
(j) Includes 3,500 Shares held jointly by Wm. Maurice Sanger and Ellen S.
Sanger; and 9,568 Shares held jointly by Wm. Maurice Sanger and Ellen S.
Sanger.
Page 7 of 13
<PAGE>
BANK'S BOARD OF DIRECTORS'
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT
The fundamental philosophy of the Bank's compensation program is to offer
competitive compensation opportunities for all executive officers that are based
on both the individual's contribution and company's performance. The
compensation paid is designed to attract, retain and reward executive officers
who are capable of leading the Bank and Bancshares in achieving its business
objectives in an industry characterized by complexity, competitiveness and
constant change. The compensation of the Bank's key executives is reviewed and
approved annually by the Board of Directors, which acts as the Bank's
Compensation Committee. There are no compensated employees of Bancshares.
In its consideration of whether to increase salaries from year to year, and the
amounts of increases, the Board of Directors reviews the overall financial
performance of the Bank during the past year and the expectations for the
current year. Specifically, the Board looks to whether total return on assets is
satisfactory and compares total assets and earnings levels with prior years.
Special factors that are considered are whether loan delinquencies are
consistent with expectations, and whether there have been any significant
acquisitions or sales of assets or other extraordinary events. While no specific
financial targets are set, the Board will generally recommend increases to
executives, including the chief executive officer, if the Bank continues to
experience anticipated levels of financial growth.
Salaries are also based on merit, which involves an evaluation by the Board of
how ably an executive performed the duties entailed in his or her position.
Employees' performances are generally reviewed by management, while executive
officers have their performance evaluated by the Board.
All or most executives, including the chief executive officer, receive
approximately the same percentage increase in any given year. Similarly, so long
as Bank is meeting its budget's expectations, each executive receives a bonus of
a percentage of salary, with most executives receiving approximately the same
percentage amount. In 1999, most bonuses were in the range of 2%.
The foregoing report has been approved by the Board of Directors.
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION
The full Board serves as Bank's Compensation Committee. Daniel T. Cannon, a
member of the Board since Bancshares' formation in 1996, also serves as
President of Bancshares and as President and CEO of the Bank. While Mr. Cannon
specifically excluded himself from any Board discussion concerning his
compensation, he did participate in Board discussions concerning other key
executives' compensation. J. Robert Barton and Susanne K. Nuttle, both of whom
serve on the Bancshares and Bank Boards, also served as officers of the Bank,
until 1995 and 1997, respectively.
Page 8 of 13
<PAGE>
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
Daniel T. Cannon, 50, has served as President of Bancshares since its formation
in 1996, and as President and CEO of the Bank since July 1995. He served as
Executive Vice President from July 1992 until July 1995, and as Cashier and
Comptroller of the Bank from 1980 until July 1992, and as Comptroller of the
Bank from 1978 until 1980.
Carol I. Brownawell, 35, has served as Treasurer of Bancshares since its
formation in 1996, and as Executive Vice President and CFO of the Bank since
January 1997, Vice President of Finance from November 1994 until January 1997,
Comptroller and Compliance Officer from July 1993 until November 1994, and
Finance and Compliance Officer from March 1993 until July 1993.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The following table sets forth the annual compensation for both Bancshares'
President and for the Bank's most highly compensated executive officer, whose
annual cash compensation exceeded $100,000, in any of the three previous fiscal
years.
================================================================================
SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANNUAL
COMPENSATION OTHER
----------------------------------------
Principal All Other
Name Position Year Salary Bonus Compensation (1)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Daniel T. Cannon President 1997 $105,000 $4,200 $ 9,828
President 1998 $118,077 $3,600 10,951
President 1999 $127,500 $2,452* 10,200
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTES:
(1) Compensation equals amounts contributed by the Bank pursuant to a 401(k)
Profit Sharing Pland and Trust that covers substantially all employees.
Each year, the Bank contributes a matching contribution equal to 50% of the
participant's deferral (up to 6% of the employee's salary) and a
discretionary amount determined each year by the Board of Directors. For
1997, $3,276 was the 401(k) match and $6,552 was a 6% discretionary
contribution. For 1998, $3,650 was the 401(k) match and $7,301 was a 6%
discretionary contribution. For 1999, $3,825 was the 401(k) match and
$6,375 was a 5% discretionary contribution.
* Accrued in 1999, paid in 2000.
================================================================================
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
Daniel T. Cannon entered into an employment agreement with Bancshares and the
Bank effective January 1, 1999 (the "Employment Agreement") under which Mr.
Cannon is employed as President and CEO. The Employment Agreement has a five
year term, and is renewable automatically for a second five year term (and
subsequent 12 month terms) unless either party provides 90 days advanced notice
to the contrary. The Employment Agreement provides that if Mr. Cannon is
terminated without cause, Mr. Cannon will continue to receive his salary up to
the date of termination of the current term of the Employment Agreement or for
Page 9 of 13
<PAGE>
24 months, whichever is longer. If Mr. Cannon's employment is terminated within
12 months of a change in control of Bancshares or the Bank, as defined in the
Employment Agreement, Mr. Cannon will receive the product of 2.99 times his base
salary, as defined, and the sum of any other "parachute payments," as defined
under federal tax law. In addition, Mr. Cannon is entitled to the same severance
payment under other circumstances following a change in control, including a
change in duties or work location.
STOCK OPTION PLANS
The 1998 Stock Option Plan was approved by the Bancshares' Board of Directors
and stockholders, and will continue in effect until March 3, 2008, unless
earlier terminated. The total number of shares of Common Stock that may be
issued under the plan cannot exceed 80,000 shares, as adjusted for stock splits.
Unless the Board provides otherwise, no more than 16,000 shares may be granted
under the Stock Option Plan in any calendar year. Both incentive stock options
and nonqualified stock options may be granted. Options granted under the Stock
Option Plan generally expire on the 10th anniversary of the date the option was
granted. Twenty-three directors, officers and employees were granted an
aggregate of options to purchase 6,520 shares in 1999.
The 1998 Stock Purchase Plan was approved by the Bancshares' Board of Directors
and stockholders, and will continue in effect until March 3, 2008, unless
earlier terminated. The total number of shares of Common Stock that may be
issued under the plan cannot exceed 20,000 shares, as adjusted for stock splits.
Unless the Board provides otherwise, no more than 4,000 shares may be granted
under the Stock Purchase Plan in any calendar year. The number of options to
purchase shares are granted to each employee at an established rate each year
which is based on each employee's salary at the time of the grant. The purchase
price of the shares under each option granted pursuant to the Stock Purchase
Plan is 85% of the fair market value of the stock on the date the option is
granted. Each option granted under the Stock Purchase Plan generally expires 27
months from the date the option was granted. Fifty-six employees were granted an
aggregate of options to purchase 1,523 shares in 1999.
OPTION GRANTS IN LAST FISCAL YEAR
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Potential realizable value
Individual Grants at assumed annual rates of
stock price appreciation for
option term
Number of Percent of
securities total options
underlying granted to Exercise or
options employees base price
Name granted (#) in fiscal year ($/Sh.) Expiration date 5% 10%
- ---- ----------- -------------- ------- --------------- -- ---
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Daniel T. Cannon 500 19.66% $32.00 01-31-2009 $26,062 $41,500
President and CEO
</TABLE>
Page 10 of 13
<PAGE>
The following table sets forth certain information relating to the number and
value of underlying unexercised stock options held by the named executives as of
December 31, 1999.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Aggregated 1999 Year End Option Values
Number of Securities Value of Unexercised
Underlying Unexercised Options In-the-Money Options
at Fiscal Year-End at Fiscal Year-End ($)
Name Exercisable Unexercisable Exercisable Unexercisable
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Daniel T. Cannon 0 500 $0.00 $0.00
President and CEO
</TABLE>
PERFORMANCE GRAPH
The performance graph shown below compares the cumulative total return to
Bancshares' stockholders over the most recent 5-year period with both the NASDAQ
Composite Index (reflecting overall stock market performance) and the NASDAQ
Bank Index (reflecting changes in banking industry stocks). Returns are shown on
a total return basis, assuming the reinvestment of dividends based on a $100
investment beginning December 31, 1994.
COMPARISON OF FIVE YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN
SHORE BANCSHARES, INC.,
NASDAQ COMPOSITE INDEX &
NASDAQ BANK INDEX
[GRAPH OMITTED]
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999
---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Shore Bancshares, Inc.* $100.00 $106.86 $163.39 $247.39 $379.69 $245.57
NASDAQ Composite Index $100.00 $139.92 $171.69 $208.83 $291.60 $541.16
NASDAQ Bank Index $100.00 $144.81 $182.69 $298.85 $263.68 $242.63
</TABLE>
*Restated for 100% Stock Dividend in 1994, a 2 for 1 conversion to Bancshares in
1996 and 100% Stock Dividend
Page 11 of 13
<PAGE>
SELECTION OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
(Proposal 2)
The Board of Directors of Bancshares, upon recommendation of Bancshares' Audit
Committee, proposes and recommends the election of Stegman & Company as
independent certified public accountants to make an examination of the accounts
of Bancshares and the Bank for the year ending December 31, 2000.
Stegman and Company served as Bancshares' and the Bank's independent public
auditor for 1999. Representatives of Stegman & Company are expected to be
present at the Annual Meeting and will have the opportunity to make a statement
if they desire. They will be available to respond to appropriate questions
regarding Bancshares consolidated financial statements for 1999.
The Board of Directors recommends a vote "FOR" ratifying the selection of
Stegman and Company as Bancshares' independent public accountants for 2000.
OTHER INFORMATION
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
Pursuant to Section 16(a) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 and the
rules promulgated thereunder, Bancshares' executive officers and directors are
required to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission reports of their
ownership of Common Stock. Based solely on a review of copies of such reports
furnished to Bancshares, or written representations that no reports were
required, Bancshares believes that during the fiscal year ended December 31,
1999, all executive officers and directors complied with the Section 16(a)
requirements except Director Sanger who filed one late Form 4 regarding one
transaction.
Certain Relationships & Related Interests
The Bank, as Bancshares' subsidiary, has had in the past, and expects to have in
the future, banking transactions in the ordinary course of business with
directors and executive officers on substantially the same terms, including
interest rates and collateral on loans, as those prevailing at the same time for
comparable transactions with other unaffiliated persons and, in the opinion of
management, these transactions do not and will not involve more than the normal
risk of collectibility or present other unfavorable features.
Financial Statements
A copy of Bancshares' annual report containing audited financial statements for
the year ended December 31, 1999, accompanies this Proxy Statement. A copy of
Form 10-K, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, may be obtained
without charge, upon written request to Pamela C. Satchell, Vice President, The
Centreville National Bank, 109 N. Commerce Street, PO Box 400, Centreville,
Maryland 21617.
Page 12 of 13
<PAGE>
Date For Submission Of Stockholder Proposals
Stockholders' proposals for the 2001 Annual Meeting, pursuant to Rule14a-8 of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, must be received at Bancshares' principal
executive offices not later than November 22, 2000. All other stockholder
proposals must be received by Bancshares no later than February 5, 2001.
Annual Meeting Business
As of the date of this proxy statement, management does not know of any other
matters that will be brought before the meeting requiring action of the
stockholders. However, if any other matters requiring the vote of the
stockholders properly come before the meeting, it is the intention of the
persons named in the enclosed form of proxy to vote in accordance with the best
judgment of management.
By order of the Board of Directors
Mary Catherine Quimby, Secretary
March 20, 2000
Page 13 of 13
<PAGE>
SHORE BANCSHARES, INC.
This Proxy is Solicited on Behalf of the Board of Directors.
The undersigned hereby appoints Royden N. Powell, Jr. and Robert C. Schleiger,
or either of them, acting singly or jointly, as proxies, each with full power of
substitution, to act and vote for the undersigned at the Annual Meeting of
Stockholders to be held on April 18, 2000, or any adjournment thereof.
This proxy when properly executed will be voted as directed below.
If no direction is made, it will be voted FOR proposals 1 and 2.
1. RE-ELECTION OF CLASS I DIRECTORS
Class I Nominees (to hold office until the 2003 Annual Meeting):
Thomas K. Helfenbein, Susanne K. Nuttle, Wm. Maurice Sanger
____ FOR the Nominees ____ AGAINST the Nominees
(TO WITHHOLD AUTHORITY TO VOTE FOR ANY INDIVIDUAL IN
PROPOSAL 1, STRIKE OUT THE NOMINEE'S NAME.)
2. RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENT OF STEGMAN & COMPANY, P.A. as independent
certified public accountants of Shore Bancshares, Inc. for the fiscal
year ending December 31, 2000.
____ FOR ____ AGAINST ____ ABSTAIN
3. In their discretion, to transact such other business as may properly
come before the meeting.
Please sign exactly as name appears below. When shares are held by joint
tenants, all should sign. When signing as attorney, executor, administrator,
trustee, or guardian, please give full title as such. If a corporation, please
sign in full corporate name by President or other authorized officer. If a
partnership, please sign in partnership name by authorized person.
____ I / We will attend the Stockholders' Meeting.
____ I / We are unable to attend the Stockholders' Meeting.
Dated: __________________________________, 2000
---------------------------------------------
Signature
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Signature (if held jointly)
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Signature (if held jointly)
PLEASE MARK, SIGN, DATE AND RETURN THE PROXY CARD
PROMPTLY USING THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE.
EDG0228-F600-01.doc
