<PAGE>
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
[X] Quarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 1999.
or
[ ] Transition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Commission File Number: 0-26661
VOYAGER.NET, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
DELAWARE 38-3431501
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification Number)
4660 S. HAGADORN RD SUITE 320
EAST LANSING, MI 48823
(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)
(517) 324-8940
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes [X] No [ ]
As of November 14, 1999, there were 31,650,108 shares of the Registrant's Common
Stock outstanding.
1
<PAGE>
VOYAGER.NET, INC.
FORM 10-Q
SEPTEMBER 30, 1999
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Number
------
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 1999
and December 31, 1998........................................... 3
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three
months and nine months ended September 30, 1999 and 1998........ 4
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity for
the nine months ended September 30, 1999........................ 5
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the nine
months ended September 30, 1999 and 1998........................ 6
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements............ 7-10
Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations....................................... 10-18
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings............................................... 19
Item 2. Changes in Securities........................................... 19-20
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders............. 20-21
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K................................ 22
SIGNATURES............................................................... 23
INDEX TO EXHIBITS........................................................ 24
2
<PAGE>
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
VOYAGER.NET, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
September 30, December 31,
1999 1998
------------- -------------
(unaudited)
<S> <C> <C>
Assets
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents ......................... $ 17,722,233 $ 2,350,292
Accounts receivable, less allowances .............. 2,828,751 950,381
Prepaid and other assets .......................... 1,494,811 154,059
------------- ------------
Total current assets ............................. 22,045,795 3,454,732
Property and equipment, net ....................... 19,223,571 9,528,372
Intangible assets, net ............................ 54,452,125 28,741,650
Notes receivable, related party ................... 5,500,000 --
------------- ------------
Total assets ...................................... $ 101,221,491 $ 41,724,754
============= ============
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
Current liabilities:
Current portion of obligations under capital leases $ 1,578,264 $ 303,562
Notes payable, related party ...................... -- 2,252,713
Accounts payable .................................. 1,314,350 659,351
Other liabilities ................................. 3,298,829 855,727
Deferred revenue .................................. 9,174,187 5,625,627
------------- ------------
Total current liabilities ........................ 15,365,630 9,696,980
Commitments and contingencies ...................... -- --
Obligations under capital leases ................... 1,843,545 751,613
Long-term debt ..................................... -- 30,000,000
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock, Series A, 8% cumulative, non-
voting, $.01 par value, $100 redemption value ..... -- 8,274,819
Common stock, $.0001 par value .................... 2,712 1,792
Additional paid-in capital ........................ 112,129,038 3,214,748
Receivable for preferred and common stock ......... (6,000,000) (666,700)
Deferred compensation ............................. 86,420 1,008,420
Accumulated deficit ............................... (22,205,854) (10,556,918)
------------- ------------
Total stockholders' equity ...................... 84,012,316 1,276,161
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity ....... $ 101,221,491 $ 41,724,754
============= ============
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of
the condensed consolidated financial statements.
3
<PAGE>
VOYAGER.NET, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(unaudited)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30, September 30,
------------------------------ -----------------------------
1999 1998 1999 1998
------------ ----------- ----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Revenue:
Internet access service ......................... $ 12,581,368 $ 2,042,350 $ 31,524,130 $ 4,395,566
Other ........................................... 323,628 2,946 613,991 7,240
------------ ----------- ----------- -----------
Total revenue .................................... 12,904,996 2,045,296 32,138,121 4,402,806
------------ ----------- ----------- -----------
Operating expenses:
Internet access service costs ................... 3,971,575 817,571 10,363,256 1,616,811
Sales and marketing ............................. 1,791,275 389,925 3,989,344 794,939
General and administrative ...................... 3,867,622 657,531 9,412,224 1,477,951
Depreciation and amortization ................... 6,418,767 344,809 14,950,544 614,366
Compensation charge for issuance of common
stock and stock options ........................ 25,000 780,407 2,534,000 780,407
------------ ----------- ----------- -----------
Total operating expenses ......................... 16,074,239 2,990,243 41,249,368 5,284,474
------------ ----------- ----------- -----------
Loss from operations before interest
expense, net .................................... (3,169,243) (944,947) (9,111,247) (881,668)
Interest expense, net ............................ (188,361) (95,734) (2,002,430) (173,169)
------------ ----------- ----------- -----------
Net loss ......................................... (3,357,604) (1,040,681) (11,113,677) (1,054,837)
Preferred stock dividends ........................ (36,273) (82,998) (367,265) (182,998)
------------ ----------- ----------- -----------
Net loss applicable to common stockholders ....... $ (3,393,877) $(1,123,679) $(11,480,942) $(1,237,835)
============ =========== =========== ===========
Per Share Data:
Basic and diluted net loss per share applicable to
common stockholders ............................. $ (0.11) $ (0.06) $ (0.45) $ (0.08)
============ =========== =========== ===========
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic and diluted ................................ 30,084,336 18,255,050 25,751,248 16,103,780
============ =========== =========== ===========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of
the condensed consolidated financial statements.
4
<PAGE>
VOYAGER.NET, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
(unaudited)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Preferred Stock Common Stock Additional
---------------------------- ------------------------- Paid-in
Shares Amount Shares Amount Capital
------- ----------- ---------- ------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Balance at January 1, 1999 .. 82,748 $ 8,274,819 22,216,308 $1,792 $ 3,214,748
Issuance of common stock ....... -- -- 1,240,000 100 7,354,900
Proceeds from initial public
offering ..................... -- -- 7,425,000 743 99,454,156
Proceeds from preferred stock .. -- -- -- -- --
Redemption of preferred stock .. (82,748) (8,274,819) -- -- --
Payment of preferred stock
dividends .................... -- -- -- -- --
Exercise of stock options and
vesting of restricted stock .. -- -- 768,800 77 2,105,234
Deferred compensation .......... -- -- -- -- --
Net loss ....................... -- -- -- -- --
------- ----------- ---------- ------ ------------
Balance at September 30, 1999 -- $ -- 31,650,108 $2,712 $112,129,038
======= =========== ========== ====== ============
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Receivable
For Preferred Total
and Common Deferred Accumulated Stockholders'
Stock Compensation Deficit Equity
----------- ----------- ------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Balance at January 1, 1999 .. $ (666,700) $ 1,008,420 $(10,556,918) $ 1,276,161
Issuance of common stock ....... (6,000,000) -- -- 1,355,000
Proceeds from initial public
offering ..................... -- -- 99,454,899
Proceeds from preferred stock .. 666,700 -- -- 666,700
Redemption of preferred stock .. -- -- -- (8,274,819)
Payment of preferred stock
dividends .................... -- -- (535,259) (535,259)
Exercise of stock options and
vesting of restricted stock .. -- (1,090,000) -- 1,015,311
Deferred compensation .......... -- 168,000 -- 168,000
Net loss ....................... -- -- (11,113,677) (11,113,677)
----------- ----------- ------------ ------------
Balance at September 30, 1999 $(6,000,000) $ 86,420 $(22,205,854) $ 84,012,316
=========== =========== ============ ============
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of
the condensed consolidated financial statements.
5
<PAGE>
VOYAGER.NET, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(unaudited)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
-------------------------------------
1999 1998
------------- ------------
<S> <C> <C>
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net loss ........................................... $ (11,113,677) $ (1,054,837)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net
cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization ...................... 14,950,544 614,366
Compensation charge for issuance of
common stock shares and options ................... 2,534,000 780,407
Changes in assets and liabilities excluding
effects of business combinations, net ............. (1,218,527) 1,356,700
------------- ------------
Net cash provided by operating activities .......... 5,152,340 1,696,636
Cash flows from investing activities:
Business acquisition costs, net of cash
acquired .......................................... (36,551,115) (29,153,979)
Purchase of property and equipment ................. (5,034,077) (1,415,594)
------------- ------------
Net cash used in investing activities .............. (41,585,192) (30,569,573)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Payments on capital leases ......................... (515,622) (105,754)
Advances from related party ........................ -- 4,047
Payments to related party .......................... (5,500,000) (25,521)
Payment of preferred stock dividends ............... (535,259) --
Payment of debt .................................... (60,200,000) --
Proceeds from initial public offering .............. 101,925,743 --
Payment of initial public offering expenses ........ (2,470,844) --
Redemption of preferred stock ...................... (8,274,819) --
Payment of note payable ............................ (2,016,847) --
Payment of bank financing fees ..................... (1,474,770) (1,325,530)
Proceeds from issuance of debt ..................... 30,200,000 26,400,000
Proceeds from note payable issuance ................ -- 2,800,000
Proceeds from common stock and stock option issuance 311 2,061
Proceeds from preferred stock ...................... 666,700 2,065,719
------------- ------------
Net cash provided by financing activities .......... 51,804,593 29,815,022
------------- ------------
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents .......... 15,371,741 942,085
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of
period ............................................ 2,350,292 518,791
------------- ------------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period ......... $ 17,722,033 $ 1,460,876
============= ============
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of
the condensed consolidated financial statements.
6
<PAGE>
VOYAGER.NET, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)
1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION:
These condensed consolidated financial statements of Voyager.net, Inc. and
its subsidiaries (the "Company") for the three and nine months ended September
30, 1999 and 1998 and the related footnote information are unaudited and have
been prepared by the Company pursuant to the rules and regulations of the
Securities and Exchange Commission. These financial statements included herein
should be read in conjunction with the Company's audited consolidated financial
statements and the related notes to the consolidated financial statements as of
and for the year ended December 31, 1998, which are included in the Company's
prospectus filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and dated July 20,
1999. In management's opinion, the accompanying unaudited financial statements
contain all adjustments (consisting of normal, recurring adjustments) which
management considers necessary to present the consolidated financial position of
the Company at September 30, 1999 and the results of its operations and cash
flows for the three month and nine month periods ended September 30, 1999 and
1998. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in the
financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and
regulations. The results of operations for the three and nine months ended
September 30, 1999 are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations
expected for the year ended December 31, 1999.
2. BUSINESS COMBINATIONS:
During the nine month period ended September 30, 1999, the Company
acquired certain assets used in connection with the Internet access service
business of sixteen entities as described below:
January 15, 1999, the Company purchased assets of Hoosier On-Line Systems,
Inc. for approximately $2,347,000. Approximately $2,030,000 was allocated to the
acquired customer base cost as a result of this transaction.
February 24, 1999, the Company purchased assets of Infinite Systems, Ltd.
for approximately $3,100,000. Approximately $2,538,000 was allocated to the
acquired customer base cost as a result of this transaction.
March 10, 1999, the Company purchased assets of Exchange Network Services,
Inc. for approximately $3,250,000. Approximately $2,803,000 was allocated to the
acquired customer base cost as a result of this transaction.
April 23, 1999, the Company acquired certain subscribers of StarNet, Inc.
for approximately $1,835,000. Approximately $2,000,000 was allocated to the
acquired customer base cost as a result of this transaction.
May 7, 1999, the Company purchased stock of GDR Enterprises, Inc. for
approximately $9,075,000. Approximately $9,018,000 was allocated to the acquired
customer base cost as a result of this transaction.
June 4, 1999, the Company purchased assets of Edgeware, Inc., d/b/a
PCLink.com, for approximately $1,896,000. Approximately $1,916,000 was allocated
to the acquired customer base cost as a result of this transaction.
June 17, 1999, the Company purchased assets of Core Digital
Communications, Inc. for approximately $1,285,000. Approximately $1,227,000 was
allocated to the acquired customer base cost as a result of this transaction.
June 25, 1999, the Company acquired the assets of American Information
Services, Inc. for approximately $1,111,000. Approximately $1,111,000 was
allocated to the acquired customer base cost as a result of this transaction.
7
<PAGE>
VOYAGER.NET, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
2. BUSINESS COMBINATIONS (CONTINUED)
September 10, 1999, the Company purchased assets from Data Management
Consultants, Inc. for approximately $2,073,000. Approximately $2,003,000 was
allocated to the acquired customer base cost as a result of this transaction.
September 10, 1999, the Company purchased assets from Net Direct for
approximately $4,519,000. Approximately $4,119,000 was allocated to the acquired
customer base cost as a result of this transaction.
September 15, 1999, the Company purchased assets from Raex for
approximately $4,308,000. Approximately $4,114,000 was allocated to the acquired
customer base cost as a result of this transaction.
September 23, 1999, the Company purchased assets from Internet Connection
Services, LLC for approximately $708,000. Approximately $545,000 was allocated
to the acquired customer base cost as a result of this transaction.
September 23, 1999, the Company purchased assets from MichWeb, Inc. for
approximately $521,000. Approximately $456,000 was allocated to the acquired
customer base cost as a result of this transaction.
October 4, 1999, the Company purchased assets of ComNet, LLC for
approximately $8,886,000. Approximately $8,147,000 was allocated to the acquired
customer base cost as a result of this transaction.
October 7, 1999, the Company purchased assets of TDI Internet Services,
Inc. for approximately $1,831,000. Approximately $1,871,000 was allocated to the
acquired customer base cost as a result of this transaction.
October 7, 1999, the Company purchased assets of Choice Dot Net, LLC for
approximately $1,765,000. Approximately $1,510,000 was allocated to the acquired
customer base cost as a result of this transaction.
The unaudited pro forma combined historical results, as if the entities
listed above (excluding ComNet, LLC, Choice Dot Net, LLC, and TDI Internet
Services, Inc.) had been acquired at the beginning of the nine months ended
September 30, 1999 and 1998, respectively, are included in the table below.
Additionally, the unaudited pro forma combined historical results, as if
Freeway, Inc., EXEC-PC, Inc. and Netlink Systems, LLC, which were acquired in
1998, had been acquired at the beginning of the nine months ended September 30,
1998 are included in the table below. The pro forma combined historical results
for CDL Corp., Internet-Michigan, Inc., Netimation, Inc., Add, Inc., StarNet,
Inc., American Information Services, Inc. and Internet Connection Services, LLC
were not deemed to be material and are not included for the nine months ended
September 30, 1999 and 1998.
(in thousands except per share data)
Nine Months Ended September 30,
------------------------------------
1999 1998
-------- --------
Revenue $ 39,553 $ 26,357
Net loss $(16,677) $(18,499)
Basic and diluted loss per share $ (0.66) $ (1.16)
The pro forma results above include amortization of intangibles and
interest expense on debt assumed issued to finance the acquisitions. The pro
forma results are not necessarily indicative of what actually would have
occurred if the acquisitions had been completed as of the beginning of each of
the fiscal periods presented, nor are they necessarily indicative of future
consolidated results.
8
<PAGE>
VOYAGER.NET, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
3. DEBT:
In July 1999, the Company re-negotiated its revolving available credit
facility with its bank group concurrent with its initial public offering (see
note 7) for a $60 million line of credit, with the option to extend to $70
million, on similar terms and conditions. The credit facility matures on June
30, 2005. The revolving credit facility agreement allows the Company to elect an
interest rate as of any borrowing date based on either the (1) prime rate, or
(2) LIBOR, plus a margin ranging from 0.5% to 2.75% depending on the ratio of
funded debt to EBITDA. The elected rate as of September 30, 1999 is
approximately 7.95%. Automatic and permanent reductions of the maximum
commitments begin June 30, 2001 and continue until maturity.
4. EARNINGS PER SHARE:
The impact of dilutive shares is not significant. Net loss per share is
computed using the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during
the period. Inclusion of common share equivalents of 3,983,847 would be anti-
dilutive and have been excluded from per share calculations.
5. Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information:
The following is the supplemental cash flow information for all periods
presented:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Nine months ended
September 30,
----------------------------------
1999 1998
------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C>
Cash paid during the period for interest ........... $ 1,755,097 $ 235,031
Noncash financing and investing activities:
In connection with the acquisitions described in
Note 2, liabilities were assumed as follows:
Fair value of assets acquired ..................... $ 41,286,245 $ 33,938,712
Business acquisition costs, net of cash
acquired ......................................... $(36,551,115) $(29,153,979)
------------ ------------
Liabilities assumed ................................ $ 4,735,130 $ 4,784,733
============ ============
Acquisition of equipment through capital lease ..... $ 2,434,099 $ 362,606
Issuance of compensatory common stock and options .. $ 2,534,000 --
</TABLE>
6. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION PLAN:
During the three months ended September 30, 1999, the Company granted
3,983,847 options to purchase common stock to certain members of management,
employees and non-employees. At the grant date, 558,000 options were fully
vested; 1,023,000 options will vest in two semi-annual installments; the
remaining 2,402,847 options vest in four equal annual installments beginning
July 20, 2000. These options were granted at not less than the fair market value
of the Company's common stock on the grant date. Therefore, no additional
compensation expense has been recognized in the three months ended September 30,
1999 for these options.
During the three months ended September 30, 1999, the Company recognized
compensation expense of $25,000 relating to options granted prior to July 1,
1999.
9
<PAGE>
VOYAGER.NET, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
7. INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING:
On July 20, 1999, the Company completed its initial public offering in
which it sold 7,425,000 shares of common stock at $15.00 per share resulting in
net proceeds of $99,454,899. In addition, a total of 1,575,000 shares were
offered for sale by shareholders. Upon the closing of the offering, $60,622,173
of senior bank debt and accrued interest and fees were repaid, $8,810,078 of
preferred stock and cumulative dividends were redeemed, and $2,336,174 of
subordinated notes and accrued interest were repaid. The remainder of the
proceeds are to be used for general corporate purposes, including potential
acquisitions, and capital expenditures.
ITEM 2:
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
OPERATING RESULTS OF THE COMPANY
GENERAL
We are the largest Internet service provider focused on the Midwestern
United States. We incorporated in June 1994 and began offering Internet access
to residential and business customers in Michigan in 1995. From 1995 to 1997, we
focused on building our network infrastructure in Michigan as well as developing
the core competencies to grow our business. We funded the initial build-out of
our network and development of our operations primarily through an aggregate
$2.5 million in debt and equity capital from Horizon Cable I Limited
Partnership, Media/Communications Partners II Limited Partnership and
Media/Communications Investors Limited Partnership. In 1998, we began pursuing
an acquisition program focused on acquiring regional and local Internet service
providers throughout the Midwest. This program allowed us to expand into new
markets as well as to increase the utilization of Voyager.net-owned points of
presence network infrastructure and operations. During 1998, we acquired seven
Internet service providers in the Midwest with approximately 100,000
subscribers, including the acquisition of EXEC-PC, Inc., a consumer-based
Internet service provider located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin with 80,000
subscribers. We funded these acquisitions primarily with $4.8 million of equity
capital raised from private equity investors and through a $40.0 million
revolving credit facility with a group of banks led by Fleet National Bank. The
credit facility was increased to $70.0 million on April 13, 1999. Thus far in
1999, we have acquired an additional sixteen Internet service providers with
approximately 124,000 subscribers in the aggregate. We currently operate the
largest dial-up Internet network in the Midwest in terms of geographic coverage,
with approximately 190 Voyager.net-owned points of presence in Michigan,
Wisconsin, Ohio, Illinois, Indiana and Minnesota. Through a combination of
internal growth and acquisitions, we have increased our subscriber base from
approximately 17,000 subscribers at the end of December 1997 to approximately
304,000 subscribers as of September 30, 1999, including approximately 8,700 Web
hosting subscribers, 1,450 dedicated Internet access accounts, 1,340 cable modem
customers and 530 DSL subscribers.
On July 20, 1999, the Company completed an initial public offering in
which it sold 7,425,000 shares of common stock at $15.00 per share resulting in
net proceeds of $99,454,899. In addition, a total of 1,575,000 shares were
offered for sale by shareholders. Upon the closing of the offering, $60,622,173
of senior bank debt and accrued interest and fees were repaid, $8,810,078 of
preferred stock and cumulative dividends were redeemed, and $2,336,174 of
subordinated notes and accrued interest were repaid. The Company intends to use
the remainder of the proceeds for general corporate purposes, including
potential acquisitions, and capital expenditures.
10
<PAGE>
REVENUES AND EXPENSES
Our revenues are generally composed of:
-- dial-up Internet access services, which allow customers to access
the Internet through a local telephone call using standard modems in
computers;
-- dedicated Internet access services, which provide customers a
continuous high-speed connection to the Internet using traditional
copper telephone lines; and
-- additional Web and communications services, such as Web hosting, or
maintaining customer Web sites on our servers and computers,
co-location, or providing telecommunications facilities for
customer-owned Web servers and equipment, electronic commerce, and
other broadband voice and data services.
Dial-up Internet access service revenues consist of monthly, quarterly,
semi-annual and annual prepaid subscriptions for Internet access services. We
offer dial-up Internet access to residential and small- and medium-sized
business customers. Advance collections relating to prepaid subscriptions for
future access services are recorded as deferred revenue when collected and
revenue is recognized ratably over the term of the prepaid subscription.
Subscribers may cancel their subscriptions at any time, in which case we charge
the subscribers for their subscription to the date of cancellation and refund
any remaining amounts prepaid. Cash received from prepaid subscribers is
classified as deferred revenue when received, and no cash reserves are
maintained for potential refund obligations. A majority of our residential
subscribers pay their monthly fee automatically by a pre-authorized monthly
charge to their credit cards.
Internet access service costs includes costs for providing local telephone
lines into each Voyager.net-owned point of presence, costs associated with
leased lines connecting each point of presence to our two network operation
centers, costs for our connections from our network operating centers to the
Internet, billing and bad debt expense and other technical-related expenses.
Telecommunication costs include the costs of data circuits, dial-in line
expenses and connectivity fees. Billing costs include credit card processing
fees, banking fees and customer billing expenses. Internet access service costs
for Web hosting consists primarily of telecommunication costs. Internet access
service costs for other non-recurring value added services consists of licensing
fees and cost of labor and overhead performing the service. Internet access
service costs for reselling of long distance services consists of third-party
wholesale costs of the products resold. Other technical-related expenses
primarily consist of maintenance contracts and domain name registration costs.
As we execute our acquisition strategy in the future, we expect increased
Internet access service costs on an absolute dollar basis, but lower Internet
access service costs on a percentage basis as a result of continued revenue
growth, reduction of redundant costs, consolidation of operations and re-
negotiation of pricing on telecommunication, equipment and other vendor
contracts.
Dedicated Internet access services revenues are offered on a monthly,
yearly, three-year and five-year subscription basis. We offer dedicated Internet
access services using leased dedicated telecommunication lines primarily to
business customers, with Internet access using digital subscriber lines and
cable modems offered to both residential and business customers. The revenue
recognition policies and customer cancellation practices described for the
dial-up Internet access services also apply to the dedicated access services.
We also provide a wide range of Web services such as Web hosting,
co-location, registering customer domain names and Internet addresses, and
electronic commerce. We derive recurring revenue from Web site hosting primarily
on a fixed-rate monthly basis. We charge our co-location customers monthly fees
based on the physical use of our facilities. Other services such as domain name
and Internet address registration, electronic commerce services and other
consulting services are typically offered at a fixed-rate basis or time plus
materials basis. We also provide long distance voice services offered through a
reseller relationship with IXC Communications Services, Inc. Revenue from
long-distance service is recognized as used by the customer. Payments from
customers for prepaid calling card services are recorded as deferred revenue
when collected and revenue is recognized as the prepaid subscription is used.
Sales and marketing costs consist of salaries and commissions for sales,
marketing and business support personnel, advertising and promotion expenses and
commissions for value added resellers. Since 1998, we have expanded our
marketing and sales efforts as we have expanded our geographic coverage,
increased our subscriber base, acquired additional businesses and introduced new
products and services. We expect increases in the absolute spending for sales
and marketing, but we expect these costs to be more than offset by the increase
in customer
11
<PAGE>
revenues that will be achieved. We do not defer any costs associated with
obtaining or retaining customers or entering new markets.
General and administrative expenses consist of compensation costs for
business development, finance, accounting and billing, customer and technical
support and administration personnel and occupancy costs. Since January 1998, we
have hired several members of our senior management. We are currently seeking to
hire additional personnel to support our growth. We expect increases in general
and administrative expenses on an absolute dollar basis as we continue to
execute our acquisition strategy and the expansion of our operations.
ACQUISITIONS
Our acquisition strategy is designed to leverage our existing network and
administrative operations to allow us to enter new markets within the Midwest,
as well as to expand our presence in existing markets, and to realize economies
of scale. Since December 31, 1998 we have acquired sixteen Internet service
provider businesses in the Midwest totaling approximately 124,000 subscribers as
of October 8, 1999. Below is a summary of our completed acquisitions, with the
number of customers acquired at the respective date of acquisition:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Number of
Company Date Location Customers
------- -------- -------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Hoosier On-Line Systems, Inc. 1/15/99 Seymour, IN 8,000
Infinite Systems, Ltd. 2/24/99 Columbus, OH 12,500
Exchange Network Services, Inc. 3/10/99 Cleveland, OH 8,000
StarNet, Inc 4/23/99 Chicago, IL 5,900
GDR Enterprises, Inc. 5/7/99 Dayton, OH 20,000
PCLink.com 6/4/99 Minneapolis, MN 5,500
Core Digital Communications, Inc. 6/17/99 Stevens Point, WI 4,000
American Information Services, Inc. 6/25/99 Chicago, IL 3,100
Data Management Consultants, Inc. 9/2/99 Hillsdale, MI 7,000
NetDirect 9/8/99 Indianapolis, IN 8,000
Raex 9/14/99 Canton, OH 12,000
Internet Connection Services, LLC 9/21/99 Kalamazoo, MI 2,200
MichWeb, Inc. 9/22/99 Cadillac, MI 1,400
ComNet, LLC 10/4/99 Central OH 19,000
Choice Dot Net, LLC 10/7/99 Cincinnati, OH 3,400
TDI InternetServices, Inc. 10/7/99 Monroe, MI 3,600
</TABLE>
Our acquisition activity was initially financed with $4.8 million of
equity capital from private equity investors and loans from a $40.0 million
revolving credit facility with a group of banks managed by Fleet National Bank.
We increased the overall capacity of our credit facility to $70.0 million on
April 13, 1999. In July 1999, the Company re-negotiated its revolving available
credit facility with its bank group concurrent with its initial public offering
for a $60 million line of credit, with the option to extend to $70 million, on
similar terms and conditions. On July 20, 1999, the Company completed its
initial public offering in which it sold 7,425,000 shares of common stock at
$15.00 per share resulting in net proceeds of $99,454,899. Upon the closing of
the offering, $60,622,173 of senior bank debt and accrued interest and fees were
repaid, $8,810,059 of preferred stock and cumulative dividends were redeemed,
and $2,336,174 of subordinated notes and accrued interest were repaid. The
remainder of the proceeds are to be used for general corporate purposes,
including potential acquisitions, and capital expenditures.
Voyager.net is currently in various levels of acquisition discussions with
a number of Internet service providers in targeted markets in the Midwest.
However, there can be no assurance that the Company will successfully complete
any of the acquisitions we are currently evaluating.
12
<PAGE>
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following table sets forth certain consolidated statement of
operations data for the three and nine months ended September 30, 1999 and 1998
as a percentage of revenue. This information should be read in conjunction with
the Company's consolidated financial statements and notes included in the
Company's public filings.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30, September 30,
----------------------- -----------------------
1999 1998 1999 1998
------ ------ ------ ------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Revenue:
Internet access service .................. 97.5% 99.8% 98.1% 99.8%
Other .................................... 2.5 0.2 1.9 0.2
------ ------ ------ ------
Total revenue .............................. 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
------ ------ ------ ------
Operating expenses:
Internet access service costs ............ 30.5 40.0 32.1 36.7
Sales and marketing ...................... 13.8 19.1 12.4 18.1
General and administrative ............... 29.7 32.1 29.2 33.5
Depreciation and amortization ............ 49.4 16.9 46.4 14.0
Compensation charge for issuance of common
stock and stock options ................. 0.2 38.1 7.9 17.7
------ ------ ------ ------
Total operating expenses ................... 123.6 146.2 128.0 120.0
------ ------ ------ ------
Loss from operations before interest
expense, net .............................. (23.6) (46.2) (28.0) (20.0)
Interest expense, net ...................... (1.4) (4.7) (6.2) (3.9)
------ ------ ------ ------
Net loss ................................... (25.0)% (50.9)% (34.2) (23.9)%
====== ====== ====== ======
EBITDA Margin .............................. 25.4% 8.8% 26.3% 11.7%
====== ====== ====== ======
</TABLE>
THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1999 COMPARED TO SEPTEMBER 30, 1998
Revenues. Total consolidated revenues increased from $2.0 million for the
three months ended September 30, 1998 to $12.9 million for the three months
ended September 30, 1999, representing an increase of 531%. The revenue growth
was primarily driven by the increase in our customer base from approximately
118,000 at September 30, 1998 to approximately 304,000 at October 8, 1999. The
growth in customers was the result of both organic growth and acquisition
activity; we experienced internal growth from our effort to provide high quality
customer and technical service and support, geographic expansion in our coverage
areas and low customer churn rates. In addition, we introduced several new
service offerings, such as digital subscriber lines and long distance telephone
service, which generated additional revenue from our customer base.
Internet access service costs. Internet access service costs increased
from $0.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 1998 to $4.0 million
for the three months ended September 30, 1999. Internet access service costs as
a percent of revenue declined from 40.0% for the three months ended September
30, 1998 to 30.5% for the three months ended September 30, 1999 due to improved
telecommunication contracts and economies of scale. The increase in absolute
spending for the three months ended September 30, 1999 was primarily a result of
an increase in customers and their associated network expenses and an increase
in billing costs.
Sales and marketing. Sales and marketing expenses increased from $390,000
for the three months ended September 30, 1998 to $1.8 million for the three
months ended September 30, 1999. The increase in spending was primarily
attributable to the growth in our customer base and support functions and the
expansion of our geographic coverage area. As a percentage of revenue, sales and
marketing costs decreased from 19.1% for the three months ended September 30,
1998 to 13.8% for the three months ended September 30, 1999. The decrease in
sales and marketing expenses as a percentage of revenues reflects lower customer
acquisition costs attributable to customer care and referral programs spread
over a larger revenue base.
General and administrative. General and administrative expenses increased
from $0.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 1998 to $3.9 million
for the three months ended September 30, 1999. The absolute
13
<PAGE>
increase in spending was due to the growth of our business and the
administrative functions necessary to support our growth, as well as incremental
costs associated with the public status of the Company. As a percentage of
revenue, general and administrative costs decreased from 32.1% for the three
months ended September 30, 1998 to 29.7% for the three months ended September
30, 1999. The decrease on a percentage basis represents leveraging of resources
across an increased customer base.
Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense
increased from $345,000 for the three months ended September 30, 1998 to $6.4
million for the three months ended September 30, 1999. This increase was
primarily a result of the amortization of intangible assets related to acquiring
our customer base since September 30, 1998, as well as increased capital
spending for expanded network operations and infrastructure.
Compensation charge for issuance of common stock and stock options. We
incurred a charge of $25,000 for the three months ended September 30, 1999
related to the issuance of common stock and stock options. The amount of this
charge was based on the issuance and grant of common stock and options at
purchase and exercise prices below fair market value and a charge to reflect
vesting of previously issued common stock or options granted. We believe these
charges to be non-recurring in nature because we expect to issue all future
shares and stock options at prices which approximate market value. However, some
unvested options to purchase common stock will continue to vest over the next
four years, which will result in additional compensation expense of
approximately $135,000 in periods subsequent to September 30, 1999.
Interest income (expense), net. Interest expense, net increased from
$96,000 for the three months ended September 30, 1998 to $188,000 for the three
months ended September 30, 1999. This increase is the result of the higher
average balance on our $70.0 million line-of-credit which was used to fund
acquisitions completed during 1998 and 1999 prior to our initial public
offering; this line of credit was paid off on July 25, 1999 with proceeds from
the initial public offering.
Net loss. As a result of the above, we reported net loss of $1.1 million ,
or $.06 per share applicable to common stockholders, for the three months ended
September 30, 1998 as compared to net loss of $3.4 million, or $0.11 per share
applicable to common stockholders, for the three months ended September 30,
1999.
EBITDA. EBITDA increased from $180,000 for the three months ended
September 30, 1998 to $3.3 million for the three months ended September 30,
1999. As a percentage of revenues, EBITDA increased from 8.8% for the three
months ended September 30, 1998 to 25.4% for the three months ended September
30, 1999. EBITDA represents earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation,
amortization and non-recurring, non-cash compensation charges. EBITDA is
provided because it is a measure commonly used by investors to analyze and
compare companies on the basis of operating performance. EBITDA is not a
measurement of financial performance under generally accepted accounting
principles and should not be construed as a substitute for operating income, net
income or cash flows from operating activities for purposes of analyzing our
operating performance, financial position and cash flows. EBITDA, as calculated
by Voyager.net, is not necessarily comparable with similarly titled measures for
other companies.
NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1999 COMPARED TO SEPTEMBER 30, 1998
Revenues. Total consolidated revenues increased from $4.4 million for the
nine months ended September 30, 1998 to $32.1 million for the nine months ended
September 30, 1999, representing an increase of 630%. The revenue growth was
primarily driven by the increase in our customer base from approximately 118,000
at September 30, 1998 to approximately 304,000 at September 30, 1999. This
substantial growth in customers was primarily the result of our acquisitions. We
also experienced strong internal growth from our effort to provide high quality
customer and technical service and support, geographic expansion in our coverage
areas and low customer churn rates. In addition, we introduced several new
service offerings, such as digital subscriber lines and long distance telephone
service, which generated additional revenue from our customer base.
Internet access service costs. Internet access service costs increased
from $1.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 1998 to $10.4 million
for the nine months ended September 30, 1999. Internet access service costs as a
percent of revenue decreased from 36.7% for the nine months ended September 30,
1998 to 32.1% for the
14
<PAGE>
nine months ended September 30, 1999 due to improved telecommunication contracts
and economies of scale. The increase in absolute spending for the nine months
ended September 30, 1999 was primarily a result of an increase in customers and
their associated network expenses and an increase in billing costs. We expect to
improve our gross margins in the future as we more fully integrate our acquired
companies and leverage our existing network and back office infrastructure.
Sales and marketing. Sales and marketing expenses increased from $0.8
million for the nine months ended September 30, 1998 to $4.0 million for the
nine months ended September 30, 1999. The increase in spending was attributable
to the growth in our customer base and support functions and the expansion of
our geographic coverage area. As a percentage of revenue, sales and marketing
costs decreased from 18.1% for the nine months ended September 30, 1998 to 12.4%
for the nine months ended September 30, 1999. The decrease in sales and
marketing expenses as a percentage of revenue reflects lower customer
acquisition costs attributable to customer care and referral programs spread
over a larger revenue base.
General and administrative. General and administrative expenses increased
from $1.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 1998 to $9.4 million
for the nine months ended September 30, 1999. The absolute increase in spending
was due to the growth of our business and the administrative functions necessary
to support our growth. As a percentage of revenue, general and administrative
costs decreased from 33.5% for the nine months ended September 30, 1998 to 29.2%
for the nine months ended September 30, 1999. The decrease on a percentage basis
represents leveraging of resources across an increased customer base.
Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense
increased from $0.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 1998 to
$15.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 1999. This increase was
primarily a result of the amortization of intangible assets related to acquiring
our customer base since September 30, 1998, as well as increased capital
spending for expanded network operations and infrastructure.
Compensation charge for issuance of common stock and stock options. We
incurred a charge of $780,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 1998 which
increased to $2.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 1999 relating
to the issuance of common stock and stock options. The amount of these charges
was based on the issuance and grant of common stock and options at purchase and
exercise prices below fair market value and a charge to reflect vesting of
previously issued common stock or options granted. We believe these charges to
be non-recurring in nature because we expect to issue all future shares and
stock options at prices which approximate market value. However, some unvested
options to purchase common stock will continue to vest over the next four years,
which will result in additional compensation expense of approximately $135,000
in periods subsequent to September 30, 1999.
Interest income (expense), net. Interest expense, net increased from
$173,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 1998 to $2.0 million for the
nine months ended September 30, 1999. This increase is the result of the higher
average balance on our $70.0 million line-of-credit which was used to fund
acquisitions completed during 1998 and 1999; this line of credit was paid off on
July 25, 1999 with proceeds from the initial public offering.
Net loss. As a result of the above, we reported net loss of $1.2 million,
or $0.08 per share applicable to common stockholders, for the nine months ended
September 30, 1998 as compared to net loss of $11.5 million, or $0.45 per share
applicable to common stockholders, for the nine months ended September 30, 1999.
EBITDA (as defined). EBITDA increased from $0.5 million for the nine
months ended September 30, 1998 to $8.4 million for the nine months ended
September 30, 1999. As a percentage of revenues, EBITDA increased from 11.7% for
the nine months ended September 30, 1998 to 26.1% for the nine months ended
September 30, 1999.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Our principal capital and liquidity needs historically have related to funding
the cash portion of our acquisitions, our sales and marketing activities, the
development and expansion of our network infrastructure, the establishment of
our customer service and support operations and general working capital needs.
Our capital needs were initially met in 1996 and 1997 by loan advances from
Horizon Cable I Limited Partnership and private placements of our securities to
our principal stockholders, as further described below. As we grew our
operations during 1998, we received capital from other sources, including cash
provided by operating activities, proceeds from
15
<PAGE>
the issuance of debt and notes payable and through private placements of our
securities, as further described below. On July 20, 1999, the Company completed
an initial public offering in which it raised net proceeds of approximately
$99.5 million. Upon closing of the offering $60.6 million of senior bank debt
and accrued interest and fees were repaid, $8.8 million of preferred stock and
cumulative dividends were redeemed, and $2.3 million of subordinated notes were
repaid. The Company intends to use the remainder of the proceeds for general
corporate purposes, including potential acquisitions and capital expenditures.
Net cash provided by operating activities was $5.2 million for the nine
months ended September 30, 1999, compared to net cash provided by operating
activities of $1.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 1998. The
primary sources of cash from operating activities for the nine months ended
September 30, 1999 were $15.0 million in depreciation and amortization and a
$2.5 million compensation charge for issuance of common shares and options.
These sources were partially offset by the $11.1 million net loss.
Net cash used in investing activities was $41.6 million for the nine
months ended September 30, 1999, compared to net cash used in investing
activities of $30.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 1998. Net
cash used in investing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 1999
consisted of $36.6 million to acquire thirteen Internet service provider
businesses and $5.0 million for the purchase of capital equipment. Cash used in
investing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 1998 related to
acquisition activity and the purchase of capital equipment.
Net cash provided by financing activities was $51.8 million for the nine
months ended September 30, 1999, compared to net cash provided by financing
activities of $29.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 1998. The
primary sources of cash from financing activities for the nine months ended
September 30, 1999 was the proceeds from the Company's initial public offering
as discussed above, and use of proceeds from the Company's revolving credit
facility.
In September 1998, we entered into a $40.0 million revolving credit
facility with a bank group led by Fleet National Bank. On April 13, 1999, we
increased our availability under our credit facility to $70.0 million on similar
terms and conditions. In July 1999, we re-negotiated our credit facility
concurrent with our initial public offering for a $60 million line of credit,
with the option to extend to $70 million, on similar terms and conditions. At
September 30,1999, there was no amount outstanding. Interest is payable
quarterly with the first payment on December 31, 1998. The bank agreements allow
us to elect an interest rate as of any borrowing date of either the (1) prime
rate or (2) LIBOR, plus a margin ranging from 0.5% to 2.75% depending upon our
funded debt to EBITDA ratio. The elected rate as of September 30, 1999 was
approximately 7.95%. Automatic and permanent reductions of the maximum
commitments begin June 30, 2001 and continue until maturity.
YEAR 2000 COMPLIANCE
Introduction. The term "year 2000 issue" is generally used to describe
the various computer and other problems that may result from the improper
processing of dates and date-sensitive calculations as the year 2000 approaches
and is reached. These problems arise from hardware and software unable to
distinguish dates in the "2000s" from dates in the "1900s" and from other
sources such as the use of special codes and conventions in software that use a
date field. These problems could result in a system failure or miscalculations
causing disruptions of operations, including among other things, a temporary
inability to process transactions, send invoices or engage in other normal
business activities. The year 2000 issue may pose additional problems due to the
fact the year 2000 is a leap year and some computers and programs may fail to
recognize the extra day.
Our State of Readiness. We have undertaken an assessment of our
vulnerability to the year 2000 issue with respect to our software, equipment,
and other information systems. We based this assessment upon a review of our
network and software, communications with our software vendors,
telecommunications providers and third-party suppliers. To date, we have not
experienced any problems with year 2000 issues with either third-party or
internal systems. Our executive committee supervises our year 2000 readiness
program and we review our year 2000 program on a monthly basis.
16
<PAGE>
Our overall year 2000 readiness program consists of the following steps:
-- developing a complete inventory of our hardware and software and
assessing whether each specific piece of equipment or software is
year 2000 compliant;
-- contacting all of our major equipment vendors to ensure that the
equipment or software purchase has been tested and verified as year
2000 compliant;
-- testing all of our internal equipment and software to ensure that it
is year 2000 compliant;
-- upgrading, repairing, or replacing all internal or purchase
equipment or software to ensure that it is year 2000 compliant; and
-- developing contingency plans to address potential year 2000 problems
which are not directly in our control or have not previously been
tested or repaired.
Specific areas in our year 2000 program which have been completed:
-- upgrading our internal customer care system which includes our
billing, technical support, and customer support modules and which
is now year 2000 compliant;
-- contacting our major equipment providers, including Oracle, Cisco,
Gateway, 3Com, and Sun Microsystems, and receiving disclosure
statements that all of the equipment or software purchased from
these vendors is year 2000 compliant; and
-- replacing all modems, servers and other telecommunications equipment
which had been tested and reviewed as non-year 2000 compliant.
Contingency Plans for Year 2000 problems. For the equipment and software
which is directly in our control, we have started the development of various
contingency plans for year 2000 problems. We do rely, however, on equipment
purchased by third-party vendors, over which we have no control. We have and
will continue to take the necessary steps in order to assure that the equipment
purchased from third-party vendors is year 2000 compliant.
Cost to Address Year 2000 Issues. Our historical costs to assess our year
2000 readiness have been negligible. We are not currently able to estimate the
final aggregate cost of addressing the year 2000 issue because funds may be
required as a result of future findings. We do not expect these costs to have an
adverse effect on our business and financial results.
Risks Presented by Year 2000 Issues. We are still in the process of
evaluating potential disruptions or complications that might result from year
2000-related problems. Our failure to correct a material year 2000 problem could
result in a complete failure or degradation of the performance of our network or
other systems, including the disruption of operations and normal business
activities. Presently, however, we believe that the most reasonably likely worst
case scenario related to the year 2000 issue is associated with third-party
services and products. Specifically, Voyager.net is heavily dependent on a
significant number of third-party vendors to provide both network services,
telecommunications lines and equipment. A significant year 2000-related
disruption of the services provided to us by third-party vendors could cause
customers to consider seeking alternate Internet access providers or cause an
unmanageable burden on customer service and technical support, which in turn
could materially and adversely affect our results of operations, liquidity and
financial condition. We are not presently aware of any vendor-related year 2000
issue that is likely to result in such a disruption. Furthermore, Voyager.net's
business depends on the continued operation of, and widespread access to, the
Internet. To the extent the year 2000 issue disrupts the normal operation of the
Internet, our results of operations, liquidity and financial condition could be
materially and adversely affected. Although there is inherent uncertainty in the
year 2000 issue, we expect that as we progress with our year 2000 readiness
plan, the level of uncertainty about the impact of the year 2000 issue on us
will be reduced and we should be better positioned to identify the nature and
extent of material risk to us as a result of any year 2000 disruptions.
17
<PAGE>
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This discussion contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the
Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, that involve substantial risks
and uncertainties. You can identify these statements by forward-looking words
such as "may," "will," "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate"
and "continue" or similar words. You should read statements that contain these
words carefully because they discuss our future expectations, contain
projections of our future results of operations or of our financial condition or
state other "forward-looking" information. We believe that it is important to
communicate our future expectations to our investors. However, there may be
events in the future that we are not able to accurately predict or control.
18
<PAGE>
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
The Company, from time to time, may be involved in various claims and
legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of its business. The Company is
not currently a party to any such claims or proceedings, which, if decided
adversely to the Company, would likely either individually or in the aggregate
have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition or
results of operations.
ITEM 2. CHANGES IN SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
(a) In connection with its initial public offering (the "IPO"), the Company
effected a 1.24-for-1 stock spilt with respect to its Common Stock.
Further an amendment to the Company's certificate of incorporation was
approved by the Company's Board of Directors on June 10, 1999 and by its
stockholders on July 16, 1999 establishing a classified Board of Directors
and effecting certain other changes as described in Item 4(c) below,
affecting the rights of the holders of the Company's Common Stock.
(b) Not applicable.
(c) Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities.
In May 1999, the Company issued 500,000 shares of Common Stock upon
exercise of an outstanding stock option under the Company's 1998 Stock
Option and Incentive Plan for an aggregate exercise price of $250.00 to an
employee of the Company in reliance upon the exemption from registration
under Rule 701 promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
(d) Use of Proceeds.
The Company completed its IPO in July 1999. The IPO was made pursuant to a
Registration Statement on Form S-1, originally filed with the Securities
and Exchange Commission on May 6, 1999, as amended (Commission File No.
333-77917), which was declared effective on July 20, 1999. The IPO
commenced on July 21, 1999 and terminated shortly thereafter after the
sale into the public market of all of the registered shares of Common
Stock.
The shares of Common Stock sold in the IPO were offered for sale by a
syndicate of underwriters represented by Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette
Securities Corporation, First Union Capital Markets Corp., CIBC World
Markets Corp. and DLJdirect Inc.
19
<PAGE>
The Company registered an aggregate of 10,350,000 shares of Common Stock
(including 1,350,000 shares issuable upon the exercise of the
underwriters' overallotment option) in the IPO at a per share price of
$15.00, for an aggregate offering price of $155,250,000. As of the date of
the filing of this report, 9,000,000 registered shares have been sold at
an aggregate offering price of $135,000,000. Of the 9,000,000 shares sold
in the IPO, 7,425,000 shares were registered for the Company's account.
The Company incurred the following expenses in connection with the IPO:
Underwriting discounts and commissions ... $ 9.45 million
Other expenses ........................... 2.47 million
--------------
Total expenses ...................... $11.92 million
After deducting the expenses set forth above, the Company received
$99,454,899 in net proceeds from the IPO. The Company used approximately (a)
$60.6 million of the proceeds to repay borrowings under the Company's then
existing senior credit facility with Fleet National Bank, including fees and
accrued and unpaid interest, (b) $2.3 million to repay subordinated notes and
accrued interest (c) $8.8 million to redeem all of the outstanding shares of the
Company's Series A Preferred Stock in July 1999 and (d) $12.3 million for the
acquisition of other businesses.
Glenn Friedly, a director of the Company, received proceeds from the
redemption of the Series A Preferred Stock, as did Media/Communications Partners
II Limited Partnership and Media/Communications Investors Limited Partnership.
Each of John Hayes and Christopher Gaffney, directors of the Company, is a
member of the general partner of each of these funds. Messrs. Hayes and Gaffney
disclaim beneficial ownership of all such shares of Series A Preferred Stock and
proceeds of such redemption except to the extent of his pecuniary interest in
the shares held by Media/Communications Investors Limited Partnership.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSIONS OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
(a) The stockholders of the Company voted by written consent in lieu of a
special and annual meeting effective July 16, 1999 (the "Written Consent").
(b) As described in paragraph (c) below, on July 16, 1999, the Company's
stockholders approved the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation
including designation of the Company's current directors, John G. Hayes, Glenn
R. Friedly, Christopher S. Gaffney, Gerald H. Taylor and Christopher P. Torto,
under a classified board arrangement.
(c) Pursuant to the Written Consent, the Company's stockholders approved
the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation and the Second Amended and
Restated Certificate of Incorporation and approved amendments to the Company's
1998 Stock Option and Incentive Plan (the "Plan"). The votes for these proposals
were as follows:
20
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Class Outstanding For
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
1. Approval of Amended and Restated Series A Preferred 82,748 82,748
Certificate of Incorporation/Second
Amended and Restated Certificate of Common 19,416,380 19,416,380
Incorporation
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. Amendments to the Plan Series A Preferred 82,748 82,748
Common 19,416,380 19,416,380
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
By adopting the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, the
stockholders approved the classification of the current Board of Directors as
follows:
Class I - Term Expires at Annual Meeting of Stockholders held in 2000:
Christopher P. Torto
Gerald H. Taylor
Class II - Term Expires at Annual Meeting of Stockholders held in 2001:
Christopher S. Gaffney
Class III - Term Expires at Annual Meeting of Stockholders held in 2002:
John G. Hayes
Glenn R. Friedly
The above described Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation became
effective in connection with the IPO and, among other things: (i) provides for
the classification of directors as described above; (ii) increases the number of
shares of Common Stock authorized to 50,000,000; (iii) prohibits action by
stockholders by written consent; (iv) provides that amendments to the Amended
and Restated Certificate of Incorporation shall require, in some instances, 66
2/3% of the outstanding shares entitled to vote with respect to such amendment.
(d) Not applicable.
21
<PAGE>
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
A. EXHIBITS:
The following exhibits are filed as a part of this report:
3.4** Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of
Voyager.net, Inc.
3.5** Amended and Restated By-Laws of Voyager.net, Inc.
10.31*** Promissory Note dated July, 1999 made by Christopher Torto in
favor of the Company.
10.33* Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of July 26,
1999 by and among Voyager Information Networks, a wholly-owned
subsidiary of Voyager.net, Inc., and Fleet National Bank as
Agent and the Lenders identified therein (excluding Schedules
and Exhibits which the Company agrees to furnish
supplementally to the Commission upon request).
10.34* Employment Agreement dated as of September 15, 1999 between
Anthony Paalz and Voyager Information Networks, Inc.
10.35* Agreement Regarding Inventions, Non-competition and
Confidentiality dated as of September 15, 1999 between Anthony
Paalz and Voyager Information Networks, Inc.
27.1* Financial Data Schedule.
B. REPORTS ON FORM 8-K:
No reports on Form 8-K were filed during the quarter ended September 30,
1999.
___________________________________
* Filed herewith.
** Incorporated herein by reference to the Company's Registration Statement on
Form S-8 (File No. 333-84987).
*** Incorporated herein by reference to the Company's Registration Statement on
Form S-1 (File No. 333-77917).
22
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
VOYAGER.NET, INC.
Date: November 12, 1999 \s\ Dennis Stepaniak
-----------------------------------------------
Dennis Stepaniak
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer,
and Treasurer
(Principal Financial Officer)
23
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT INDEX
-------------
Exhibit
Number Description Page No.
------ ----------- --------
3.4** Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of
Voyager.net, Inc.
3.5** Amended and Restated By-Laws of Voyager.net, Inc.
10.31*** Promissory Note dated July, 1999 made by Christopher Torto in
favor of the Company.
10.33* Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of July 26, 1999 by and
among Voyager Information Networks, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of
Voyager.net, Inc., Fleet National Bank as Agent and the Lenders
identified therein (excluding Schedules and Exhibits which the Company
agrees to furnish supplementally to the Commission upon request).
10.34* Employment Agreement dated as of September 15, 1999 between
Anthony Paalz and Voyager Information Networks, Inc.
10.35* Agreement Regarding Inventions, Non-competition and
Confidentiality dated as of September 15, 1999 between Anthony
Paalz and Voyager Information Networks, Inc.
27.1* Financial Data Schedule.
__________________________
* Filed herewith.
** Incorporated herein by reference to the Company's Registration Statement on
Form S-8 (File No. 333-84987).
*** Incorporated herein by reference to the Company's Registration Statement on
Form S-1 (File No. 333-77917).
24
<PAGE>
Exhibit 10.33
-------------
AMENDED AND RESTATED
CREDIT AGREEMENT
among
VOYAGER INFORMATION NETWORKS, INC.
THE SEVERAL LENDERS FROM
TIME TO TIME PARTIES HERETO
AND
FLEET NATIONAL BANK
AS AGENT
Dated as of July 26, 1999
TABLE OF CONTENTS
-----------------
<PAGE>
Page No.
--------
I. GENERAL TERMS 1
1.01. REDUCING REVOLVING FACILITIES 1
1.02. INTEREST ON THE NOTES 3
1.03. LOAN REQUESTS; TYPE OF LOAN 6
1.04. LOAN DISBURSEMENTS 7
1.05. PREPAYMENTS AND TERMINATION OR REDUCTION OF THE COMMITMENTS 7
1.06. FEES 10
1.07. REQUIREMENTS OF LAW 11
1.08. LIMITATIONS ON LIBOR LOANS; ILLEGALITY 12
1.09. TAXES 13
1.10. INDEMNIFICATION 14
1.11. PAYMENTS UNDER THE NOTES 15
1.12. SET-OFF, ETC. 15
1.13. PRO RATA TREATMENT; SHARING 16
1.14. NON-RECEIPT OF FUNDS BY THE AGENT 17
1.15. REPLACEMENT OF NOTES 18
II. SECURITY; SUBORDINATION; USE OF PROCEEDS 18
2.01. SECURITY FOR THE OBLIGATIONS; SUBORDINATION; ETC. 18
2.02. USE OF PROCEEDS; SCHEDULE OF SOURCES AND USES 19
III. CONDITIONS OF MAKING THE LOANS 19
3.01. CONDITIONS TO THE AGREEMENT 19
3.02. ALL LOANS 21
3.03. LENDER APPROVALS 21
<PAGE>
IV. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES 22
4.01. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 22
4.02. ORGANIZATION, QUALIFICATION, ETC. 22
4.03. AUTHORIZATION; COMPLIANCE; ETC. 22
4.04. GOVERNMENTAL AND OTHER CONSENTS, ETC. 23
4.05. COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS AND AGREEMENTS 23
4.06. PROPRIETARY RIGHTS; THE PUBLICATIONS 23
4.07. LITIGATION 23
4.08. MATERIAL AGREEMENTS 24
4.09. TITLE TO PROPERTIES; CONDITION OF PROPERTIES 24
4.010. SOLVENCY 24
4.11. FULL DISCLOSURE 25
4.12. MARGIN STOCK 25
4.13. TAX RETURNS 25
4.14. PENSION PLANS, ETC. 25
4.15. PROJECTIONS 26
4.16. BROKERS, ETC. 26
4.17. CAPITALIZATION 26
4.18. ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE 26
4.19. INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT 27
4.20. LABOR MATTERS 27
4.21. YEAR 2000 27
4.22. HART-SCOTT RODINO ACT 27
---- ---------------------
ii
<PAGE>
V. FINANCIAL COVENANTS 28
5.01. LEVERAGE 28
5.02. FIXED CHARGES 28
5.03. TOTAL INTEREST COVERAGE 28
5.04. MAXIMUM CHURN 29
---- -------------
VI. AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS 29
6.01. PRESERVATION OF ASSETS; COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS, ETC. 29
6.02. INSURANCE 30
6.03. TAXES, ETC. 32
6.04. NOTICE OF PROCEEDINGS, DEFAULTS, ADVERSE CHANGE, ETC. 32
6.05. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND REPORTS 33
6.06. INSPECTION 34
6.07. ACCOUNTING SYSTEM 35
6.08. ADDITIONAL ASSURANCES 35
6.09. COMPLIANCE WITH ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS 35
6.10. INTEREST RATE PROTECTION 36
6.11. YEAR 2000 COMPLIANCE 36
6.12. THE OFFERING 37
---- --------
VII. NEGATIVE COVENANTS 37
7.01. INDEBTEDNESS 37
7.02. LIENS 37
7.03. DISPOSITION OF ASSETS; ETC. 38
7.04. FUNDAMENTAL CHANGES; ACQUISITIONS; RESTRICTED PAYMENTS 39
7.05. MANAGEMENT 40
7.06. SALE AND LEASEBACK 40
7.07. INVESTMENTS 40
7.08. CHANGE IN BUSINESS 40
7.09. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE 40
iii
<PAGE>
7.10. TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES 40
7.11. AMENDMENT OF CERTAIN AGREEMENTS, ETC. 40
7.12. ERISA 40
7.13. MARGIN STOCK 41
7.14. NEGATIVE PLEDGES, ETC. 41
VIII. DEFAULTS 41
IX. REMEDIES ON DEFAULT, ETC. 43
X. THE AGENT 44
10.01. APPOINTMENT, POWERS AND IMMUNITIES 44
10.02. RELIANCE BY AGENT 45
10.03. EVENTS OF DEFAULT 45
10.04. RIGHTS AS A LENDER 45
10.05. INDEMNIFICATION 46
10.06. NON-RELIANCE ON AGENT AND OTHER LENDERS 46
10.07. FAILURE TO ACT 46
10.08. RESIGNATION OF AGENT 46
10.09. COOPERATION OF LENDERS 47
XI. DEFINITIONS 47
XII. ENTIRE AGREEMENT; AMENDMENTS AND WAIVERS; ACTIONS BY THE LENDERS 65
XIII. BENEFIT OF AGREEMENT; ASSIGNMENTS AND PARTICIPATIONS 67
XIV. MISCELLANEOUS 70
14.01. SURVIVAL 70
14.02. FEES AND EXPENSES; INDEMNITY; ETC. 70
14.03. NOTICE 70
iv
<PAGE>
14.04. GOVERNING LAW 72
14.05. CONSENT TO JURISDICTION; WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL 72
14.06. SEVERABILITY 73
14.07. SECTION HEADINGS, ETC. 73
14.08. SEVERAL NATURE OF LENDERS' OBLIGATIONS 73
14.09. COUNTERPARTS 73
14.10. KNOWLEDGE AND DISCOVERY 73
14.11. AMENDMENT OF OTHER AGREEMENTS 73
14.12. DISCLAIMER OF RELIANCE 73
14.13. ENVIRONMENTAL INDEMNIFICATION 74
14.14. INTEGRATION 74
v
<PAGE>
INDEX OF SCHEDULES
------------------
Schedule 1.01(a) Allocation of Commitments
Schedule 1.01(b) Form of Reducing Revolving Credit Note
Schedule 1.03(a) Form of Loan Request
Schedule 1.03(d) Form of Interest Rate Option Notice
Schedule 3.01(c) Omnibus Officers' Certificate
Schedule 4.01 Opening Balance Sheet
Schedule 4.02 Organization; Qualification
Schedule 4.04 Consents
Schedule 4.06 Proprietary Rights
Schedule 4.07 Litigation
Schedule 4.14 Pension Plans
Schedule 4.15 Projections
Schedule 4.17 Capitalization
Schedule 6.05 Compliance Report
Schedule 7.01 Permitted Indebtedness
Schedule 7.02 Permitted Liens
Schedule 11 Officer's Compliance Certificate: Permitted
Acquisitions
Schedule 13(b)(iii) Form of Assignment and Acceptance
Schedule 13(b)(iv) Form of Notice of Assignment and
Acceptance
<PAGE>
AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT
-------------------------------------
THIS AMENDED AND RESTATED CREDIT AGREEMENT dated as of July 26, 1999, by
and among VOYAGER INFORMATION NETWORKS, INC. (the "Borrower"), a Michigan
--------
corporation that is wholly-owned by Voyager.net, Inc. (f/k/a Voyager Holdings,
Inc.), a Delaware corporation (the "Parent"); the financial institutions which
------
are now, or in accordance with ARTICLE XIII hereafter become, parties hereto by
execution of the signature pages to this Agreement or otherwise (collectively,
the "Lenders" and each individually, a "Lender"); and FLEET NATIONAL BANK, as
------- ------
Agent for the Lenders (in such capacity as Agent, together with its successors
and assigns in such capacity, the "Agent").
-----
RECITALS
--------
A. The Borrower is an Internet service provider with primary operations in
the Midwestern United States.
B. The Borrower, the Agent and the Lenders are parties to that certain
Credit Agreement dated as of September 23, 1998 (as amended by the First
Amendment to Credit Agreement dated as of April 13, 1999, the "Original
--------
Agreement").
- ---------
C. The Borrower desires to (i) obtain funds for Capital Expenditures, to
finance the Borrower's debt service, for future acquisitions and for working
capital purposes, and (ii) amend and restate the Original Agreement to make
certain amendments, modifications and revisions to the terms thereof.
NOW THEREFORE, the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound, and in
consideration of the foregoing and the mutual covenants contained herein, hereby
agree that the Original Agreement be, and hereby is, amended and restated to
read in its entirety (but retaining references to the foregoing Recitals) as
follows:
I. GENERAL TERMS
-------------
Section 1.01. REDUCING REVOLVING FACILITIES.
------------ -----------------------------
(a) (i) On the Closing Date, subject to the terms and conditions contained
in this Agreement, the Lenders agree to establish in favor of the Borrower
reducing revolving credit facilities in the aggregate principal amount of
$60,000,000, allocated among the Lenders as set forth in Schedule 1.01(a)
----------------
(collectively, in either case, as reduced pursuant to Section 1.01(e), the
"Commitments" and, with respect to each Lender's allocation thereof, its
-----------
"Commitment"), which Commitments shall expire on June 30, 2005 (such date, or
----------
such earlier date as the Commitments shall expire or be terminated hereunder,
being referred to herein as the "Maturity Date").
-------------
<PAGE>
(b) The borrowings under the Commitments (such borrowings being referred to
as "Loans") shall be evidenced by those certain Reducing Revolving Credit Notes,
-----
each in the form attached hereto as SCHEDULE 1.01(B), together with any
----------------
additional Reducing Revolving Credit Notes issued to any assignee(s) of the
Commitments under Article XIII or otherwise issued in substitution therefor or
replacement thereof, the "Notes"). The Notes are hereby incorporated by
-----
reference herein and made a part hereof.
(c) From the Closing Date to and including the Maturity Date and within the
limits of the aggregate Commitments, the Borrower may borrow, repay and reborrow
under this Section 1.01. The Notes shall be paid as required in accordance with
SECTION 1.05 in connection with all mandatory and voluntary reductions of the
Commitments.
(d) The Commitments (i) shall be automatically and permanently reduced on
June 30, 2001 and on the last Business Day of each December, March, June and
September thereafter (each such date being referred to as a "Quarterly Date"),
--------------
on each of which dates the Borrower shall repay such amount of the aggregate
Notes as shall cause the aggregate outstanding principal balance thereunder to
be less than or equal to the Commitments, as so reduced, and (ii) shall expire
on the Maturity Date, when all outstanding principal and accrued interest on the
Notes shall be due and payable in full. Such quarterly reductions of the
Commitments shall be in the amounts set forth below, without giving effect to
any other mandatory or optional Commitment reductions and, after giving effect
to such quarterly automatic reductions, the maximum aggregate amount of the
Commitments shall not exceed the levels set forth below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AGGREGATE AMOUNT OF AUTOMATIC
PAYMENT DATE PERMANENT REDUCTION MAXIMUM COMMITMENTS
------------ ------------------- -------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Closing Date $ -0- $60,000,000
June 30, 2001 750,000 59,250,000
September 30, 2001 750,000 58,500,000
December 31, 2001 1,500,000 57,000,000
March 31, 2002 1,500,000 55,500,000
June 30, 2002 1,500,000 54,000,000
September 30, 2002 1,500,000 52,500,000
December 31, 2002 3,000,000 49,500,000
March 31, 2003 3,000,000 46,500,000
June 30, 2003 3,000,000 43,500,000
September 30, 2003 3,000,000 40,500,000
December 31, 2003 4,500,000 36,000,000
March 31, 2004 4,500,000 31,500,000
June 30, 2004 4,500,000 27,000,000
September 30, 2004 4,500,000 22,500,000
December 31, 2004 7,500,000 15,000,000
March 31, 2005 7,500,000 7,500,000
June 30, 2005 7,500,000 $ - 0 -
</TABLE>
2
<PAGE>
(e) Following a request of the Borrower, the Lenders agree to establish,
with the consent of the Required Lenders (which consent may be provided,
withheld or conditioned by the Required Lenders in their sole and absolute
discretion), a reducing revolving credit facility in the aggregate amount of up
to $10,000,000 on terms and conditions substantially similar to the terms hereof
or on such terms and conditions as the Required Lenders may determine, provided,
--------
however, that no Lender is obligated to increase such Lender's Commitment or
- -------
otherwise consent thereto (which consent may be provided, withheld or
conditioned by such Lender in its sole and absolute discretion).
Section 1.02. INTEREST ON THE NOTES .
------------ ---------------------
(A) INTEREST RATE . Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in this
-------------
SECTION 1.02, the Borrower may elect an interest rate for the outstanding
principal balances from time to time of the Notes, or any portion thereof, based
upon either the Base Rate or the applicable LIBOR Rate and determined as of any
date, as set forth in the table below, as follows:
(i) the rate for any Base Rate Loan shall be the Base Rate plus the
Applicable Margin for Base Rate Loans then in effect; and
(ii) the rate for any LIBOR Loan shall be the applicable LIBOR Rate
plus the Applicable Margin for LIBOR Loans in effect on the first day of
the applicable Interest Period.
(B) DETERMINATION OF APPLICABLE MARGIN.
----------------------------------
(i) The Applicable Margin for Base Rate Loans and LIBOR Loans shall be
determined based upon the ratio of (A) Total Funded Debt as of the first
day of such Pricing Period to (B) Annualized Adjusted Operating Cash Flow
for the three months ended on the last day of the month immediately
preceding the first day of such Pricing Period (the "Pricing Ratio"), as
-------------
indicated in the following Table:
3
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATIO OF TOTAL FUNDED DEBT
TO ANNUALIZED ADJUSTED APPLICABLE MARGIN: APPLICABLE MARGIN:
OPERATING CASH FLOW BASE RATE LOANS LIBOR LOANS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Greater than or equal to 1.50% 2.75%
4.00:1.00
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less than 4.00:1.00 but 1.25% 2.50%
greater than or equal to
3.50:1.00
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less than 3.50:1.00 but 1.00% 2.25%
greater than or equal to
3.00:1.00
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less than 3.00:1.00 but .75% 2.00%
greater than or equal to
2.50:1.00
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less than 2.50:1.00 .50% 1.75%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
NOTHING IN THIS SECTION 1.02(B) SHALL BE DEEMED TO CONSTITUTE A WAIVER OF THE
REQUIREMENTS OF SECTION 5.01, DEFAULT UNDER WHICH WILL RESULT IN AN EVENT OF
DEFAULT AND THE IMPOSITION OF THE DEFAULT RATE.
(ii) As used in this SECTION 1.02, the term "Pricing Period" shall
--------------
mean each period commencing on (A) the date as of which the Borrower is
required, under SECTION 6.05 (B) and SECTION 6.05(C), to deliver financial
statements and a Compliance Report indicating the applicable Pricing Ratio
(in each case, a "Compliance Report Delivery Date") and ending on (B) the
next following Compliance Report Delivery Date.
(iii) The determination of the Applicable Margin for any Pricing Period
shall be based on the quarterly financial statements and Compliance Report
required to be delivered on the first date of such Pricing Period, as
provided above. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, in the event of
any discrepancy between the computation based on such financial statements
and Compliance Report and the related audited financial statements
furnished pursuant to SECTION 6.05(A) (the "Audited Financial Statements"),
----------------------------
the computation based upon the Audited Financial Statements shall govern,
retroactive to the first day of the applicable Pricing Period in which such
discrepancy occurred. In the event of a retroactive correction in the
determination of the Applicable Margin in favor of the Borrower, the amount
of interest thereby refundable to the Borrower shall be applied on the date
of such retroactive correction, to prepay interest payable on the Notes.
If the retroactive correction is in favor of the Lenders, the amount of
interest due to the Lenders shall be paid in full to the Agent on the first
Quarterly Date after written notice of such correction is provided to the
Borrower.
4
<PAGE>
(iv) Notwithstanding the foregoing, no reduction of the Applicable
Margin hereunder shall occur (A) until or unless the Compliance Report for
the relevant fiscal period is delivered to the Agent, which Compliance
Report demonstrates the basis for such reduction or (B) during the
existence of any Default.
(v) Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Borrower shall consummate an
Acquisition during any Pricing Period, the Applicable Margin for the period
commencing on the date of such Acquisition and ending on the last day of
such Pricing Period shall be determined based upon the ratio of (A) Total
Funded Debt as of the date of such Acquisition to Annualized Operating Cash
Flow for the three months ended on the month immediately preceding the date
of such Acquisition, as indicated in the table set forth in paragraph (i)
of this Section 1.02(b).
(C) INTEREST PAYMENT DATES. Interest on the Loans shall be payable in
----------------------
arrears, without setoff, deduction or counterclaim, as follows:
(i) Interest on each Base Rate Loan shall be due and payable on the
Quarterly Dates, commencing September 30, 1999, and at maturity, whether by
reason of acceleration, prepayment, payment or otherwise, provided that
interest accrued on any Base Rate Loan that is converted to a LIBOR Loan
shall be paid on the Quarterly Date following the date of such conversion
(or, if accrued on a Base Rate Loan which is so converted on a Quarterly
Date, on such Quarterly Date). The interest rate on Base Rate Loans shall
change on the date of any change in the applicable Base Rate without prior
notice thereof being provided to Borrower.
(ii) Interest on each LIBOR Loan shall be due and payable on the last
day of the Interest Period applicable to such Loan and, if such Interest
Period exceeds three (3) months, every three (3) months after the beginning
of such interest period, until and at maturity, whether by reason of
acceleration, prepayment, payment or otherwise.
(D) COMPUTATIONS. Interest on Base Rate Loans shall be computed on the
basis of the actual number of days elapsed over a 365 or 366-day year, as
applicable. Interest on LIBOR Loans shall be computed on the basis of the
actual number of days elapsed over a 360-day year.
(E) EFFECT OF DEFAULTS, ETC.
------------------------
(i) At all times during the existence of any Event of Default, the
outstanding principal under the Notes and, to the extent permitted by
applicable law, overdue interest, fees, expenses or other amounts payable
hereunder or under the other
5
<PAGE>
Loan Documents shall bear interest at a rate per annum (the "Default Rate")
------------
equal to two (2.00%) above (a), with respect to Base Rate Loans and overdue
interest, fees, expenses and other amounts payable hereunder, the highest
interest rate then applicable to any Base Rate Loans and (b), with respect
to any LIBOR Loans then in effect (and only until the end of the Interest
Period applicable to such LIBOR Loans), the highest interest rate then
applicable to any LIBOR Loans.
(ii) Nothing in this SECTION 1.02(E) shall affect the rights of the
Agent or the Lenders to exercise any rights or remedies under the Loan
Documents or applicable law arising upon the occurrence of an Event of
Default.
Section 1.03. LOAN REQUESTS; TYPE OF LOAN .
------------ ---------------------------
(A) LOAN REQUESTS. Each request by the Borrower for Loans under the
-------------
Commitments shall be made not later than (i) 11:00 A.M. (Boston time) on the
Business Day prior to the proposed Borrowing Date, if such Loans are Base Rate
Loans, or (ii) 11:00 A.M. (Boston time) on the third Business Day prior to the
proposed Borrowing Date, if any of such Loans are LIBOR Loans, by telephonic
notice to the Agent, confirmed no later than 11:00 A.M. (Boston time) on the
next following Business Day by a written Loan Request, in the form of SCHEDULE
--------
1.03(a) (each, a "Loan Request"), signed by an Authorized Officer of the
- ------- ------------
Borrower and indicating (i) the date of such Loans, (ii) whether such Loans
shall be Base Rate Loans or LIBOR Loans and, if so, the Interest Period
therefor, and (iii) the use of proceeds thereof, to the extent any such proceeds
are not being used for working capital purposes. The Agent shall promptly
notify the Lenders of such Loan Request and the information contained therein.
Each Loan Request shall, upon such notification by the Agent to the Lenders, be
irrevocable and binding on the Borrower.
(B) CONVERSION TO A DIFFERENT TYPE OF LOAN. The Borrower may elect from
--------------------------------------
time to time to convert any outstanding Loans to Base Rate Loans or LIBOR Loans,
as the case may be, provided that (i) with respect to any such conversion of
LIBOR Loans to Base Rate Loans, the Borrower shall provide the appropriate
Interest Rate Option Notice by 11:00 A.M. (Boston time) on the date of such
proposed conversion; (ii) with respect to any such conversion of Base Rate Loans
to LIBOR Loans, the Borrower shall provide the appropriate Interest Rate Option
Notice by 11:00 A.M. (Boston time) at least three Business Days prior to the
date of such proposed conversion; (iii) with respect to any such conversion of
LIBOR Loans into Base Rate Loans, such conversion shall only be effected on the
last day of the Interest Period for such LIBOR Loans unless the required
indemnification payments are made under SECTION 1.11; (iv) no Loans may be
converted into LIBOR Loans when any Default has occurred and is continuing; (v)
the Borrower may have no more than five (5) LIBOR Loans outstanding at any time;
(vi) any conversion of less than all of the outstanding Base Rate Loans into
LIBOR Loans shall be in a minimum aggregate principal amount of $500,000 and, if
greater, an integral multiple of $100,000; and (viii) any conversion of less
than all of the outstanding LIBOR Loans into Base Rate Loans shall be in a
minimum aggregate principal amount of $100,000 and, if greater, an integral
multiple of $100,000. The Agent shall promptly notify the Lenders of such
Interest Rate Option Notice and the information contained therein.
6
<PAGE>
(C) CONTINUANCE OF AN INTEREST RATE OPTION. The Borrower may continue any
--------------------------------------
LIBOR Loans as such upon the expiration of the related Interest Period by
providing to the Agent an Interest Rate Option Notice in compliance with the
notice provisions set forth in SECTION 1.03(B); provided that no LIBOR Loans may
--------
be continued when any Default has occurred and is continuing, but shall be
automatically converted to Base Rate Loans on the last day of the first
applicable Interest Period that ends during the continuance of such Default.
Base Rate Loans shall be deemed to continue as such until receipt of an Interest
Rate Option Notice requesting conversion thereof to LIBOR Loans.
(D) FORM OF NOTICE. Each Interest Rate Option Notice shall be
--------------
substantially in the form of SCHEDULE 1.03(d) and shall specify: (i) the
----------------
aggregate principal amount of Loans to be continued or converted; (ii) the
proposed date thereof; (iii) the Interest Period for such LIBOR Loans; and (iv)
whether such Loans shall be LIBOR Loans or Base Rate Loans.
Section 1.04. LOAN DISBURSEMENTS. The Loans shall be made by the
------------ ------------------
Lenders pro rata as provided in SECTION 1.13. Not later than 1:00 P.M. (Boston
time), in the case of LIBOR Loans, or 3:00 P.M. (Boston time), in the case of
Base Rate Loans, on the date specified for any Loans, each Lender shall make
available to the Agent the portion of the Loans to be made by it on such date,
in immediately available funds, for the account of the Borrower. The amount so
received by the Agent shall, subject to the terms and conditions of this
Agreement, be made available to the Borrower by depositing the same in
immediately available funds in the appropriate account or accounts of the
Borrower and by disbursing such funds as indicated in writing in the related
Loan Request furnished prior to or, if applicable, on the date such Loans are
proposed to be made.
Section 1.05. PREPAYMENTS AND TERMINATION OR REDUCTION OF THE COMMITMENTS.
------------ -----------------------------------------------------------
(A) VOLUNTARY REDUCTIONS AND RELATED PREPAYMENTS. At any time prior to the
--------------------------------------------
Maturity Date, as the case may be, upon at least three (3) Business Days'
written notice to the Agent (each, a "Commitment Reduction Notice"), the
---------------------------
Borrower may permanently terminate or permanently reduce any of the Commitments,
without penalty or premium, provided as follows:
--------
(i) any such reduction shall be in an aggregate amount of not less
than $250,000 or, if greater, an integral multiple of $250,000;
(ii) any such reduction shall apply to each Lender's Commitment pro
---
rata as provided in SECTION 1.13;
----
(iii) simultaneously with each such reduction, the Borrower (A) shall
pay to the Agent, for the ratable account of each Lender, any then accrued
unpaid Commitment Fees on the terminated or reduced portion of the
respective Commitments, (B) shall repay such amount, if any, of the
aggregate principal amount of the Notes as shall be required to cause the
outstanding principal balance thereunder to be less than or equal to the
aggregate Commitments after giving effect to such reductions, and (C) shall
pay any indemnification payments due in accordance with SECTION 1.10 in
respect of LIBOR Loans so prepaid.
7
<PAGE>
Each Commitment Reduction Notice shall specify the date fixed for such
termination or reduction, the aggregate principal amount thereof and the
aggregate principal amount of the Notes, if any, required to be repaid hereunder
on such date.
(B) MANDATORY COMMITMENT REDUCTIONS AND PREPAYMENTS; INSURED EVENTS.
---------------------------------------------------------------
(i) Subject to the provisions of SECTION 6.02, within one hundred
eighty (180) days following the receipt by the Borrower or any of the
Subsidiaries of the proceeds of insurance, condemnation award or other
compensation in respect of any Casualty Event (the "Restoration Period")
------------------
(or upon such earlier date following the receipt of such proceeds, as the
Borrower or any Subsidiary shall have determined not to restore, repair or
replace the asset or property affected by such Casualty Event), which
proceeds, have not been applied to the restoration, repair or replacement
of the assets or properties affected by such Casualty Events, the Borrower
shall prepay the Notes and/or permanently reduce the Commitments in the
aggregate amount of such proceeds, all as provided in SECTION 1.05(f).
Nothing in this SECTION 1.05(b) shall be deemed (i) to limit any obligation
of the Companies pursuant to the Security Agreements to remit to the
Collateral Account the proceeds of insurance, condemnation award or other
compensation received in respect of any Casualty Event, (ii) to obligate
the Agent to release any of such proceeds from the Collateral Account to
the Borrower or any Subsidiary during the existence of any Default or (iii)
to require the Borrower or Lenders to apply Insurance Proceeds in the
Collateral Account to prepayment of the Notes pending completion of
repairs, replacements and restoration initiated within the Restoration
Period.
(C) MANDATORY COMMITMENT REDUCTIONS AND PREPAYMENTS; EXCESS CASH FLOW. On
-----------------------------------------------------------------
April 30 of each year, commencing April 30, 2001, the Borrower shall prepay the
Notes and reduce the Commitments, all as provided in SECTION 1.05(f), in an
aggregate amount equal to the percentage of Excess Cash Flow for the immediately
preceding calendar year determined as provided in the following table, which
percentage shall be based upon the ratio of Total Funded Debt as of December 31
of the preceding calendar year to Annualized Operating Cash Flow for the three
months ended on December 31 of the preceding calendar year.
8
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATIO OF TOTAL FUNDED DEBT TO
OPERATING CASH FLOW AS OF PERCENTAGE OF EXCESS
DECEMBER 31 CASH FLOW REQUIRED TO BE
OF PRECEDING YEAR USED FOR PREPAYMENT
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C>
Greater than 3.00:1.00 50%
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Less than or equal to 0%
3.00:1.00
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
(d) MANDATORY COMMITMENT REDUCTIONS AND PREPAYMENTS; DISPOSITIONS OF
----------------------------------------------------------------
ASSETS. Without limiting the obligation of the Borrower under SECTION 7.03 to
- ------
obtain the consent of the Lenders to any Disposition not otherwise permitted
hereunder, the Borrower agrees (i) three (3) Business Days prior to the
occurrence of any disposition of assets or properties by any Company, other than
as permitted under SECTION 7.03, to deliver to the Agent (in sufficient copies
for each Lender) a statement, certified by an Authorized Officer and in
reasonable detail, of the estimated amount of the Net Sale Proceeds of such
Disposition and (ii) that in the event such Disposition is completed, the
Borrower shall prepay the Notes and/or permanently reduce the Commitments in the
amount of such Net Sale Proceeds, as provided in SECTION 1.06(F) and as follows:
(A) on the date of such Disposition, in an aggregate amount equal to
100% of the Net Sale Proceeds of such Disposition received by any Company
on the date of such Disposition; and
(B) thereafter, to the extent any Company shall receive Net Sale
Proceeds under deferred payment arrangements or investments entered into or
received in connection with any Disposition, an amount equal to one hundred
percent (100%) of the aggregate amount of such deferred Net Sale Proceeds,
payable within two (2) Business Days after such Company receives such
funds, in each case reduced until the Commitments and any outstanding Loans
under the Notes are reduced to zero.
(e) MANDATORY COMMITMENT REDUCTIONS AND PREPAYMENTS; EQUITY ISSUANCES.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Upon any issuance of additional Equity Securities of any Company for cash
consideration (other than with respect to the Offering and with respect to
issuances of shares of Parent's common stock under the Plan), the Borrower shall
prepay the Notes and permanently reduce the Commitments in the aggregate amount
equal to the net proceeds, all as provided in SECTION 1.05(f), until the
Commitments and any outstanding Loans under the Notes are reduced to zero.
9
<PAGE>
(F) APPLICATION OF REDUCTIONS OF THE COMMITMENTS AND PREPAYMENTS/
-------------------------------------------------------------
COMMITMENT REDUCTION.
- ---------------------
(i) The prepayment that is to be made hereunder upon the occurrence of
any of the events described in SECTIONS 1.05(a) through 1.05(e) shall be
applied to permanently reduce the Commitments and pay the Notes until the
Commitments are reduced to $0 and are terminated and the Notes are paid in
full; and
(ii) Simultaneously with the termination or reduction of the Commitments
under any of the foregoing provisions of this SECTION 1.05, the Borrower
(A) shall pay to the Agent, for the ratable account of each Lender, any
then accrued unpaid Commitment Fee on the reduced portion of such
Commitments, and (B) shall repay such amount, if any, of the aggregate
principal amount of the Notes as shall cause the balance outstanding
thereunder to be less than or equal to the aggregate Commitments, after
giving effect to such termination or reduction.
(iii) All voluntary and mandatory prepayments of the Notes under the
foregoing provisions of this SECTION 1.05 (A) shall be made without set-
off, deduction or counterclaim, (B) shall be accompanied by any
indemnification payments due in accordance with SECTION 1.10 in respect of
LIBOR Loans and (C) unless otherwise specified in this SECTION 1.05, shall
be applied first, to overdue interest, fees and expenses hereunder and
-----
second, to pay installments of principal of the Notes, in the inverse order
------
of maturity (if applicable), provided, in each case, that (x) payments of
--------
principal, interest, fees and expenses of the Notes shall be applied to the
Lenders' respective Notes pro rata as provided in SECTION 1.13, unless
--- ----
otherwise agreed to by the Lenders, and (y) applications of prepayments to
principal shall be made first to Base Rate Loans and then to LIBOR Loans.
SECTION 1.06. FEES.
------------ ----
(a) The Borrower shall pay to the Agent, for the ratable account of each
Lender, a non-refundable fee (the "Commitment Fee") on the aggregate daily
--------------
unutilized portion of the Commitments, from the Closing Date to and including
the earlier of the termination thereof or the Maturity Date, at the rate of
0.50% per annum computed on the basis of the actual number of days elapsed over
--- -----
a 360-day year), payable quarterly in arrears on each Quarterly Date, commencing
September 30, 1999, without setoff, deduction or counterclaim, with a final
payment on the termination date thereof or, if earlier, the maturity of the
Notes, whether by payment, prepayment, acceleration or otherwise.
(b) The Borrowers shall pay to the Agent and Lenders certain fees specified
in the Term Sheet dated July 1, 1999.
10
<PAGE>
SECTION 1.07. REQUIREMENTS OF LAW .
------------ -------------------
(a) In the event that any Regulatory Change shall:
(i) change the basis of taxation of any amounts payable to any Lender
under this Agreement or the Notes in respect of any Loans, including
without limitation LIBOR Loans (other than taxes imposed on the net income
of such Lender);
(ii) impose or modify any reserve, compulsory loan assessment, special
deposit or similar requirement relating to any extensions of credit or
other assets of, or any deposits with or other liabilities of, any
applicable office of such Lender (including any of such Loans or any
deposits referred to in the definition of "LIBOR Base Rate" in Article XI);
or
(iii) impose any other conditions affecting this Agreement in respect of
Loans, including without limitation LIBOR Loans (or any of such extensions
of credit, assets, deposits or liabilities);
and the result of any of the foregoing shall be to increase such Lender's costs
of making or maintaining any Loans, including without limitation LIBOR Loans or
any Commitment, or to reduce any amount receivable by such Lender hereunder in
respect of any of its LIBOR Loans or any Commitment, in each case only to the
extent that such additional amounts are not included in the LIBOR Base Rate or
Base Rate applicable to such Loans, then the Borrower shall pay on demand to
such Lender, through the Agent, and from time to time as specified by such
Lender, such additional amounts as such Lender shall reasonably determine are
sufficient to compensate such Lender for such increased cost or reduced amount
receivable.
(b) If at any time after the date of this Agreement any Lender shall have
determined that the applicability of any law, rule, regulation or guideline
adopted after the Closing Date pursuant to, or arising after the Closing Date
out of, the July 1988 report of the Basle Committee on Lending Regulations and
Supervisory Practices entitled "International Convergence of Capital Measurement
and Capital Standards", or the adoption or implementation after the Closing Date
of any other Regulatory Change regarding capital adequacy or any change after
the Closing Date in the interpretation or administration thereof by any
Governmental Authority, central bank or comparable agency charged with the
interpretation or administration thereof (whether or not having the force of
law), has or will have the effect of reducing the rate of return on such
Lender's capital or on the capital of such Lender's holding company, if any, as
a consequence of the existence of its obligations hereunder to a level below
that which such Lender or its holding company could have achieved but for such
adoption, change or compliance (taking into consideration such Lender's policies
with respect to capital adequacy) by an amount reasonably deemed by such Lender
to be material, then from time to time following written notice by such Lender
to the Borrower as provided in paragraph (c) of this Section, within fifteen
(15) days after demand by such Lender, the Borrower shall pay to such Lender,
through the Agent, such additional amount or amounts as such Lender shall
reasonably determine will compensate such Lender or such corporation, as the
case may be, for such reduction, provided that to the extent
11
<PAGE>
that any or all of the Borrower's liability under this Section arises following
the date of the adoption of any such Regulatory Change (the "Effective Date"),
such compensation shall be payable only with respect to that portion of such
liability arising after notice of such Regulatory Change is given by such Lender
to the Borrower (unless such notice is given within sixty (60) days after the
Effective Date, in which case such compensation shall be payable in full).
(c) If any Lender becomes entitled to claim any additional amounts pursuant
to this Section, it shall promptly notify the Borrower of the event by reason of
which it has become so entitled. A certificate setting forth in reasonable
detail the computation of any additional amounts payable pursuant to this
Section submitted by such Lender to the Borrower shall be delivered to the
Borrower and the other Lenders promptly after the incurrence of such additional
amounts and shall be presumed correct in the absence of manifest error. The
covenants contained in this Section shall survive the termination of this
Agreement and the payment of the outstanding Notes. No failure on the part of
any Lender to demand compensation under paragraph (a) or (b) above on any one
occasion shall constitute a waiver of its rights to demand compensation on any
other occasion. The protection of this Section shall be available to each
Lender regardless of any possible contention of the invalidity or
inapplicability of any law, regulation or other condition which shall give rise
to any demand by such Lender for compensation thereunder. In the event that any
of the losses or payments for which any Lender or its holding company is
compensated under this SECTION 1.07 are reimbursed or otherwise restored to such
Lender or its holding company for any reason, including the rescission,
nullification or retroactive modification of any such Regulatory Change, such
Lender shall reimburse the Borrower accordingly as soon as reasonably
practicable.
SECTION 1.08. LIMITATIONS ON LIBOR LOANS; ILLEGALITY.
------------ --------------------------------------
(a) Anything herein to the contrary notwithstanding, if, on or prior to the
determination of an interest rate for any LIBOR Loans for any applicable
Interest Period, the Agent shall determine (which determination shall be
conclusive absent manifest error) that:
(i) by reason of any event affecting United States money markets or the
London interbank market, quotations of interest rates for the relevant
deposits are not being provided in the relevant amounts or for the relevant
maturities for purposes of determining the rate of interest for such Loans
under this Agreement; or
(ii) the rates of interest referred to in the definition of "LIBOR Base
----- ----
Rate" in ARTICLE XI, on the basis of which the rate of interest on any
----
LIBOR Loans for such period is determined, do not accurately reflect the
cost to the Lenders of making or maintaining such LIBOR Loans for such
period;
then the Agent shall give the Borrower prompt notice thereof (and shall
thereafter give the Borrower prompt notice of the cessation, if any, of such
condition), and so long as such condition remains in effect, the Lenders shall
be under no obligation to make LIBOR Loans or to convert Base Rate Loans into
LIBOR Loans and the Borrower shall, at its sole discretion, on the last day(s)
of the then current Interest Period(s) for any outstanding LIBOR Loans, either
prepay such LIBOR Loans in accordance with SECTION 1.05 or convert such Loans
into Base Rate Loans in accordance with SECTION 1.03.
12
<PAGE>
(b) Notwithstanding any other provision herein, if for any reason a Lender
shall be unable to make or maintain LIBOR Loans as contemplated by this
Agreement, such Lender shall provide prompt written notice to the Borrower and
(i) such Lender's commitment hereunder to make LIBOR Loans, continue LIBOR Loans
as such and convert Base Rate Loans to LIBOR Loans shall thereupon terminate
(subject to reinstatement by such Lender at any such time as this Section shall
no longer preclude LIBOR lending by such Lender) and (ii) such Lender's Loans
then outstanding as LIBOR Loans, if any, shall be converted automatically to
Base Rate Loans on the respective last days of the then current Interest Periods
with respect to such Loans or within such earlier period as required by law. If
any such conversion of a LIBOR Loan occurs on a day which is not the last day of
the then current Interest Period with respect thereto, and if the reason for
such Lender's inability to make or maintain LIBOR Loans as contemplated by this
Agreement is a Regulatory Change, then the Borrower shall pay to such Lender
such amounts, if any, as may be required pursuant to SECTION 1.10.
SECTION 1.09. TAXES.
------------ -----
(a) All payments made by the Borrower under this Agreement and the Notes
shall be made free and clear of, and without deduction or withholding for or on
account of, any present or future income, stamp or other taxes, levies, imposts,
duties, charges, fees, deductions or withholdings, now or hereafter imposed,
levied, collected, withheld or assessed by any Governmental Authority (all such
taxes, levies, imposts, duties, charges, fees, deductions and withholdings being
hereinafter called "Taxes"); provided, however, that the term "Taxes" shall not
----- -------- -------
include net income taxes, franchise taxes (imposed in lieu of net income taxes)
and general intangibles taxes (such as those imposed by the State of Florida)
imposed on the Agent or any Lender, as the case may be, as a result of a present
or former connection or nexus between the jurisdiction of the government or
taxing authority imposing such tax (or any political subdivision or taxing
authority thereof or therein) and the Agent or such Lender other than that
arising solely from the Agent or such Lender having executed, delivered or
performed its obligations or received a payment under, or enforced, this
Agreement, the Notes or any of the Security Documents. If any Taxes are
required to be withheld from any amounts payable to the Agent or any Lender
hereunder or under the Notes, the amounts so payable to the Agent or such Lender
shall be increased to the extent necessary to yield to the Agent or such Lender
(after payment of all Taxes) interest or any such other amounts payable
hereunder at the rates or in the amounts specified in this Agreement and the
Notes. Whenever any Taxes are payable by the Borrower in respect of this
Agreement or the Notes, as promptly as possible thereafter the Borrower shall
send to the Agent for its own account or for the account of such Lender, as the
case may be, a certified copy of an original official receipt received by the
Borrower showing payment thereof. If the Borrower fails to pay any Taxes when
due to the appropriate taxing authority or fails to remit to the Agent the
required receipts or other required documentary evidence, the Borrower shall
indemnify the Agent and the Lenders for any incremental taxes, interest or
penalties that may become payable by the Agent or any Lender as a result of any
such failure. If, after any
13
<PAGE>
payment of Taxes by the Borrower under this Section, any part of any Tax paid by
the Agent or any Lender is subsequently recovered by the Agent or such Lender,
the Agent or such Lender shall reimburse the Borrower to the extent of the
amount so recovered. A certificate of an officer of the Agent or such Lender
setting forth the amount of such recovery and the basis therefor shall, in the
absence of manifest error, be conclusive. The Agent and the Lenders shall use
reasonable efforts to notify the Borrower of (i) unpaid Taxes, if any, owed by
the Borrower which are subject to this Section and (ii) the attempts by the
Agent and the Lenders, if any, to obtain abatements of any such Taxes and the
receipt by the Agent or the Lenders of any funds in connection therewith. The
agreements in this subsection shall survive the termination of this Agreement
and the payment of the Notes and all other amounts payable hereunder.
(b) Each Lender, if any, that is not incorporated under the laws of the
United States or a state thereof agrees that, prior to the first date as of
which any payment is required to be made to it hereunder, it will deliver to the
Borrower and the Agent (i) two duly completed copies of United States Internal
Revenue Service Form 1001 or 4224 or successor applicable form, as the case may
be, and (ii) an Internal Revenue Service Form W-8 or W-9 or successor applicable
form. Each such Lender also agrees to deliver to the Borrower and the Agent two
further copies of the said Form 1001 or 4224 and Form W-8 or W-9, or successor
applicable forms or other manner of certification, as the case may be, on or
before the date that any such form expires or becomes obsolete or after the
occurrence of any event requiring a change in the most recent form previously
delivered by it to the Borrower, and such extensions or renewals thereof as may
reasonably be requested by the Borrower or the Agent, unless in any such case an
event (including, without limitation, any change in treaty, law or regulation)
has occurred prior to the date on which any such delivery would otherwise be
required which renders all such forms inapplicable or which would prevent such
Lender from duly completing and delivering any such form with respect to it and
such Lender so advises the Borrower and the Agent. Such Lender shall certify
(x) in the case of a Form 1001 or 4224, that it is entitled to receive payments
under this Agreement without deduction or withholding of any United States
federal income taxes and (y) in the case of a Form W-8 or W-9, that it is
entitled to an exemption from United States backup withholding tax.
SECTION 1.10. INDEMNIFICATION. The Borrower shall pay to the Agent,
------------ ---------------
for the account of each Lender, upon the request of such Lender delivered to the
Agent and thereafter delivered by the Agent to the Borrower, such amount or
amounts as shall compensate such Lender for any direct loss, cost or expense
actually incurred by such Lender (as such amount is reasonably determined by
such Lender) as a result of:
(a) any payment or prepayment or conversion of any LIBOR Loan held by such
Lender on a date other than the last day of the Interest Period for such LIBOR
Loan (including without limitation any such payment, prepayment or conversion
required under SECTION 1.03 or 1.05); or
(b) any failure by the Borrower to borrow, convert into or continue a LIBOR
Loan on the date for such borrowing specified in the relevant Loan Request or
Interest Rate Option Notice under SECTION 1.03 or otherwise.
14
<PAGE>
Such indemnification shall include an amount equal to the excess, if any,
of (i) the amount of interest which would have accrued on the amount so prepaid,
or not so borrowed, converted or continued, for the period from the date of such
prepayment or of such failure to borrow, convert or continue to the last day of
such Interest Period (or, in the case of a failure to borrow, convert or
continue, the Interest Period that would have commenced on the date of such
failure) in each case at the applicable rate of interest for such Loans provided
for herein (excluding, however, the Applicable Margin included therein, if any)
over (ii) the amount of interest (as reasonably determined by such Lender) which
would have accrued to such Lender on such amount by placing such amount on
deposit for a comparable period with leading banks in the interbank eurodollar
market. This covenant shall survive the termination of this Agreement and the
payment of the Loans and all other amounts payable hereunder. The determination
by each such Lender of the amount of any such loss or expense, when set forth in
a written notice delivered to the Agent (and thereafter delivered by the Agent
to the Borrower), containing such Lender's calculation thereof in reasonable
detail, shall be presumed correct in the absence of manifest error.
SECTION 1.11. PAYMENTS UNDER THE NOTES. All payments and prepayments
------------ ------------------------
made by the Borrower of principal of, and interest on, the Notes and other sums
and charges payable under this Agreement, including without limitation the
Commitment Fee and any payments under SECTIONS 1.07, 1.09 and 1.10, shall be
made in immediately available funds to the Agent (as specified in SECTION 14.03)
for the accounts of the Lenders as provided in SECTION 1.13 and otherwise herein
or in the Fee Letter, not later than 2:00 P.M. (Boston time), on the date on
which such payment shall become due. The failure by the Borrower to make any
such payment by such hour shall not constitute a default hereunder so long as
payment is received later that day, provided that any such payment made after
2:00 P.M. (Boston time), on such due date shall be deemed to have been made on
the next Business Day for the purpose of calculating interest on amounts
outstanding on the Notes. The Borrower shall, at the time of making each
payment under this Agreement or the Notes, specify to the Agent the Notes or
amounts payable by the Borrower hereunder to which such payment is to be applied
(and in the event that it fails to so specify, or if an Event of Default has
occurred and is continuing, the Agent may distribute such payments in such
manner as the Required Lenders may direct or, absent such direction, as it
determines to be appropriate, subject to the provisions of SECTION 1.13).
Except as otherwise provided in the definition of "Interest Period" with respect
to LIBOR Loans, if any payment hereunder or under the Notes shall be due and
payable on a day that is not a Business Day, such payment shall be deemed due on
the next following Business Day and interest shall be payable at the applicable
rate specified herein through such extension period. The Agent, or any Lender
for whose account any such payment is made, may (but shall not be obligated to)
debit the amount of any such payment which is not made by such time to any
deposit account of the Borrower with the Agent or such Lender, as the case may
be. Each payment received by the Agent under this Agreement or any Note for the
account of a Lender shall be paid promptly to such Lender, in immediately
available funds, for the account of such Lender for the Note in respect to which
such payment is made.
SECTION 1.12. SET-OFF, ETC. The Borrower agrees that, in addition to
------------ ------------
(and without limitation of) any right of set-off, bankers' lien or counterclaim
a Lender may otherwise have,
15
<PAGE>
each Lender shall be entitled, at its option, to offset balances held by it
(other than accounts as to which the Borrower is acting solely as a fiduciary)
for the account of the Borrower at any of its offices, in Dollars or in any
other currency, against any principal of or interest on the Notes held by such
Lender or other fees or charges owed to such Lender hereunder that are not paid
when due (regardless of whether such balances are then due to the Borrower), in
which case it shall promptly notify the Borrower and the Agent thereof, provided
that such Lender's failure to give such notice shall not affect the validity
thereof and (as security for any Indebtedness hereunder) the Borrower hereby
grants to the Agent and the Lenders a continuing security interest in any and
all balances, credit, deposits, accounts or moneys of the Borrower maintained
with the Agent and any Lender now or hereafter (other than accounts as to which
the Borrower is acting solely as a fiduciary). If a Lender shall obtain payment
of any principal, interest or other amounts payable under this Agreement through
the exercise of any right of set-off, banker's lien or counterclaim or
otherwise, it shall promptly purchase from the other Lenders participations in
(or, if and to the extent specified by such Lender, direct interests in) the
Note(s) held by the other Lenders in such amounts, and make such other
adjustments from time to time as shall be equitable, to the end that all the
Lenders shall share the benefit of such payment (net of any expenses which may
be incurred by such Lender in obtaining or preserving such benefit) pro rata in
--- ----
accordance with the unpaid principal amounts of and interest on the Note(s) held
by each of them. To such end, the Lenders shall make appropriate adjustments
among themselves (by the resale of participations sold or otherwise) if such
payment is rescinded or must otherwise be restored. The Borrower agrees that any
Lender or any other Person that purchases a participation (or direct interest)
in the Note(s) held by any or all of the Lenders (each being hereinafter
referred to as a "Participant") may exercise all rights of set-off, bankers'
-----------
lien, counterclaim or similar rights with respect to such participation as fully
as if such Participant were a direct holder of Notes in the amount of such
participation. Nothing contained herein shall be deemed to require any
Participant to exercise any such right or shall affect the right of any
Participant to exercise, and retain the benefits of exercising, any such right
with respect to any indebtedness or obligation of the Borrower, other than the
Borrower's indebtedness and obligations under this Agreement.
SECTION 1.13. PRO RATA TREATMENT; SHARING.
------------- ---------------------------
(a) Except to the extent otherwise provided herein: (i) each borrowing
from the Lenders under the Commitments shall be made from the Lenders, each
payment of the Commitment Fee shall be made to the Lenders and each reduction of
the Commitments shall be applied to the Notes held by the Lenders pro rata
--- ----
according to the amounts of their respective unused Commitments; (ii) without
limiting the generality of clause (i) above, the principal amount of LIBOR Loans
made by each Lender shall be determined on a pro rata basis in accordance with
--- ----
its respective Commitment or the outstanding principal amounts of the Loans owed
to such Lender (in the case of conversions to or continuations of Loans as LIBOR
Loans); (iii) each payment and prepayment of principal of the Notes shall be
made to the Lenders pro rata in accordance with the respective unpaid principal
--- ----
amounts of the respective Notes held by the Lenders; (iv) each payment of
interest on the Notes shall be made for the accounts of the Lenders and each
payment of the Commitment Fee or any other sums and charges payable under this
Agreement (except for fees payable in accordance with the Fee Letters, which are
payable as provided thereunder) shall be made to the Lenders pro rata in
--- ----
accordance with the respective
16
<PAGE>
unpaid principal amounts of, and interest on, the related Loans made by each of
them (calculated, as applicable, for each day of the relevant payment period);
(v) each payment under SECTION 1.07, 1.09 or 1.10 shall be made to each Lender
in the amount required to be paid to such Lender pursuant to such Section for
losses suffered or costs incurred by such Lender; and (vi) each distribution of
cash, property, securities or other value received by any Lender, directly or
indirectly, in respect of the Borrower's Indebtedness hereunder, whether
pursuant to any attachment, garnishment, execution or other proceedings for the
collection thereof or pursuant to any bankruptcy, reorganization, liquidation or
other similar proceeding, after payment of collection and other expenses as
provided herein and in the Security Documents, shall be apportioned among the
Lenders pro rata in accordance with the respective unpaid principal amounts of
and interest on the Notes held by each of them.
(b) Notwithstanding the foregoing, if any Lender (a "Recovering Party")
----------------
shall receive any distribution of the type referenced in SECTION 1.13(a)(vi) (a
"Recovery") in respect thereof, such Recovering Party shall pay to the Agent for
--------
distribution to the Lenders as set forth herein their respective pro rata shares
--- ----
of such Recovery, as set forth herein, unless the Recovering Party is legally
required to return any Recovery, in which case each party receiving a portion of
such Recovery shall return to the Recovering Party its pro rata share of the sum
--- ----
required to be returned without interest. For purposes of this Agreement,
calculations of the amount of the pro rata share of each Lender shall be rounded
--- ----
to the nearest whole dollar.
(c) The Borrower acknowledges and agrees that, if any Recovering Party
shall be obligated to pay to the other Lenders a portion of any Recovery
pursuant to SECTION 1.13(B) and shall make such recovery payment, the Borrower
shall be deemed to have satisfied its obligations in respect of Indebtedness
held by such Recovering Party only to the extent of the Recovery actually
retained by such Recovering Party after giving effect to the pro rata payments
--- ----
by such Recovering Party to the other Lenders. The obligations of the Borrower
in respect of Indebtedness held by each other Lender shall be deemed to have
been satisfied to the extent of the amount of the Recovery distributed to each
such other Lender by the Recovering Party.
SECTION 1.14. NON-RECEIPT OF FUNDS BY THE AGENT. Unless the Agent
------------ ---------------------------------
shall have been notified in writing by a Lender or the Borrower prior to one (1)
Business Day before the time at which such Lender or the Borrower is scheduled
to make payment to the Agent of (in the case of a Lender) the proceeds of a Loan
to be made by it hereunder or (in the case of the Borrower) a payment to the
Agent for the account of any or all of the Lenders hereunder (such payment being
herein referred to as a "Required Payment"), which notice shall be effective
----------------
upon actual receipt, that it does not intend to make such Required Payment to
the Agent, the Agent may (but shall not be required to) assume that the Required
Payment has been made and may (but shall not be required to), in reliance upon
such assumption, make the amount thereof available to the intended recipient(s)
on such date and, if such Lender or the Borrower (as the case may be) has not in
fact made the Required Payment to the Agent, the recipient(s) of such payment
shall, on demand, or with respect to payment received by the Borrower, within
three (3) Business Days after such receipt repay to the Agent for the Agent's
own account the amount so made available together with interest thereon in
respect of each day during the period commencing on the date such amount was so
made available by the Agent until the date the Agent recovers such amount at a
rate per annum equal to (a) the Federal Funds Rate for such day, with respect to
interest paid by such Lender, or (b) the applicable rate provided under SECTION
1.02, with respect to interest paid by the Borrower.
17
<PAGE>
SECTION 1.15. REPLACEMENT OF NOTES. Upon receipt of evidence
------------ --------------------
reasonably satisfactory to the Borrower of the loss, theft, destruction or
mutilation of any Note and (a) in the case of any such loss, theft or
destruction, upon delivery of an indemnity agreement reasonably satisfactory to
the Borrower (without need to post bond or any other security with respect
thereto), or (b) in the case of any such mutilation, upon the surrender of such
Note for cancellation, the Borrower will execute and deliver, in lieu of such
lost, stolen, destroyed, or mutilated Note, a new Note of like tenor.
II. SECURITY; SUBORDINATION; USE OF PROCEEDS
-----------------------------------------
SECTION 2.01. SECURITY FOR THE OBLIGATIONS; SUBORDINATION; ETC.
------------ ------------------------------------------------
(a) The Borrower's obligations hereunder, under the Notes and in respect of
any Rate Hedging Obligations entered into with any of the Lenders or any Hedging
Lenders shall be secured at all times, by:
(i) the unlimited guaranty of the Parent and each Subsidiary of the
Borrower, if any;
(ii) a first priority perfected security interest in and lien upon all
presently owned and hereafter acquired tangible and intangible personal
property and fixtures of each of the Companies (including, without
limitation, and any intercompany notes), subject only to any prior Liens
expressly permitted under this Agreement;
(iii) to the extent requested by the Agent, first Mortgages on all
hereafter acquired real estate owned by each of the Companies, subject only
to any prior Liens expressly permitted under this Agreement, together with
mortgagee's title insurance policies acceptable to the Agent;
(iv) to the extent requested by the Agent, first priority perfected
collateral assignments of or leasehold mortgages on all real estate leases
in which any of the Companies now has or may in the future have an interest
and such third party consents, lien waivers, non-disturbance agreements and
estoppel certificates as the Agent shall reasonably require, together with
mortgagee's title insurance policies acceptable to the Agent;
(v) a first priority perfected collateral assignment and/or pledge of all
of the issued and outstanding Equity Securities of the Companies (except
for the Parent) and all warrants, options and other rights to such Equity
Securities; and
18
<PAGE>
(vi) subject to the provisions of paragraph (b)(vi) of the definition of
"Permitted Acquisition" hereunder, first priority perfected collateral
---------------------
assignments of all such stock and asset purchase agreements, and such other
management agreements, co-location agreements, line access agreements and
other licenses, permits and authorizations to which any of the Companies is
a party as the Agent shall reasonably deem necessary to protect the
interests of the Lenders, together with such third party consents, lien
waivers and estoppel certificates as the Agent shall reasonably require.
(B) SUBORDINATION. All existing and hereafter arising indebtedness and
-------------
other obligations, including, without limitation, any obligations to pay
dividends or to make any other distributions, of each Company to their
respective Affiliates shall be subordinated to the Obligations of the Companies
pursuant to subordination agreements (the "Affiliate Subordination Agreements")
----------------------------------
or other Security Documents satisfactory in form and substance to the Required
Lenders and to the Agent's counsel, in their sole and absolute discretion.
(C) SECURITY DOCUMENTS. All agreements and instruments described or
contemplated in this SECTION 2.01, together with any and all other agreements
and instruments heretofore or hereafter securing the Notes and the Borrower's
obligations hereunder or otherwise executed in connection with this Agreement,
are sometimes hereinafter referred to collectively as the "Security Documents"
------------------
and each individually as a "Security Document". The Borrower agrees to take
-----------------
such action as the Lenders may reasonably request from time to time in order to
cause the Agent and the Lenders to be secured at all times as described in this
Section.
SECTION 2.02. USE OF PROCEEDS; SCHEDULE OF SOURCES AND USES.
------------ ---------------------------------------------
The proceeds of the Loans shall be used by the Borrower (a) to make Capital
Expenditures, (b) to fund its Total Debt Service, (c) to make Permitted
Acquisitions and (d) for working capital.
III. CONDITIONS OF MAKING THE LOANS
------------------------------
SECTION 3.01. CONDITIONS TO THE AGREEMENT. The obligations of the
------------ ---------------------------
Lenders to enter into this Agreement on the Closing Date are subject to the
following conditions:
(A) REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. The representations and warranties of
------------------------------
the Borrower and its Affiliates set forth in this Agreement and in the Loan
Documents shall be true and correct in all material respects on and as of the
date hereof and on the Closing Date and the Borrower shall have performed all
obligations that were to have been performed by it hereunder prior to the
Closing Date.
(B) LOAN DOCUMENTS AND ORGANIZATIONAL DOCUMENTS. On or before the Closing
-------------------------------------------
Date, the Borrower shall have executed and/or delivered to the Agent (or shall
have caused to be executed and delivered to the Agent by the appropriate
Persons), the following:
19
<PAGE>
(i) The Notes;
(ii) All of the Security Documents, including without limitation all
Uniform Commercial Code Financing Statements and Termination Statements and
all lessor consents and waivers, required by the Agent or its counsel in
connection with the Borrower's compliance with the provisions of SECTION
2.01;
(iii) Certified copies of the resolutions of the Board of Directors of
each Company, authorizing the execution and delivery of the Loan Documents
to which it is a party;
(iv) A copy of the certificate or articles of incorporation of each
Company, with any amendments thereto, certified by the appropriate
Secretary of State and by the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary of such
Company;
(v) For each Company, certificates of legal existence and good
standing issued as of a reasonably recent date by such Company's state of
organization or formation and any other state in which such Company is
authorized or qualified to transact business;
(vi) Such Uniform Commercial Code, Federal tax lien and judgment
searches with respect to the Companies as are requested by the Agent, the
results thereof to be satisfactory to the Agent ("Lien Searches");
---- --------
(vii) The Opening Balance Sheet;
(viii) Certificates of insurance evidencing the insurance coverage and
policy provisions required in this Agreement; and
(ix) Such other supporting documents and certificates as the Agent or
the Lenders may reasonably request from time to time.
(C) OFFICER'S CERTIFICATES AS TO COMPLIANCE, ETC. The Borrower shall have
--------------------------------------------
provided to the Agent an officer's certificate, in substantially the form of
SCHEDULE 3.01(c), executed on behalf of the Borrower by an Authorized Officer,
- ----------------
with his or her signature certified as provided therein.
(D) COMPANIES' COUNSEL OPINIONS. The Agent shall have received the
---------------------------
favorable written opinion of general counsel to the Parent and the Borrower,
dated as of the Closing Date, addressed to the Agent and the Lenders and
reasonably satisfactory to the Agent in scope and substance.
(E) THE OFFERING. The Lenders shall have received evidence (i) of the
consummation of the Offering and (ii) that the Borrower has received net equity
proceeds (after reasonable and customary expenses incurred in connection with
the Offering) of not less than $70,000,000 from the Offering. The Borrower
shall have certified to such effect in the certificate referred to in paragraph
(c) above.
20
<PAGE>
(F) NO MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE. Since December 31, 1998, no event or
--------------------------
circumstance shall have occurred that could reasonably be expected to have a
Material Adverse Effect.
(G) LEGAL AND OTHER FEES. As of the Closing Date, all fees owed to the
--------------------
Agent and the Lenders, including documented legal fees and out-of-pocket
expenses incurred through such date shall have been paid in full.
SECTION 3.02. ALL LOANS. The obligations of the Lenders to make any
------------ ---------
Loans or to permit the Conversion are subject to the following conditions:
(a) All warranties and representations set forth in this Agreement shall be
true and correct in all material respects as of the date such Loans are made,
except to the extent they relate specifically to an earlier date or are affected
by transactions occurring after the date hereof and permitted hereunder;
(b) No Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing;
and
(c) After giving effect to such Loans, no event or circumstances shall have
occurred that has had or could reasonable be expected to have a Material Adverse
Effect.
Each telephonic or written request for such Loans shall constitute a
representation to such effect as of the date of such request and as of the date
of such borrowing.
(d) The Agent shall have received a properly completed Loan Request,
together with all such certified financial calculations as the Agent shall
reasonably require to substantiate the current and pro forma certifications of
--- -----
no Default contained therein.
(e) The Agent shall have received such other supporting documents and
certificates as the Agent and the Required Lenders may reasonably request.
SECTION 3.03. LENDER APPROVALS. For purposes of determining compliance
------------ ----------------
with the conditions precedent referred to in SECTIONS 3.01 and 3.02, as of the
date hereof or, with respect to Loans made hereafter, as of the Borrowing Date
of such Loans, each of the Lenders shall be deemed to have consented to,
approved or accepted or be satisfied with each document or other matter which is
the subject of such Lender's consideration under any of the provisions of such
Sections, unless an officer of the Agent responsible for the transactions
contemplated by the Loan Documents shall have received written notice from such
Lender prior to the date hereof or the applicable Borrowing Date, as the case
may be, specifying its objection thereto and such Lender shall have failed to
execute and deliver this Agreement or to make available to the Agent such
Lender's ratable share of such Loans, as the case may be.
21
<PAGE>
IV. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. The Borrower represents and
------------------------------
warrants to the Lenders as set forth below. Such representations and warranties
are, unless otherwise specified, made as of the date hereof and shall survive
the delivery of the Notes and the making of the Loans.
Section 4.01. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. The Borrower has heretofore
------------ --------------------
furnished to the Lenders:
(a) (i) the Borrower's audited balance sheets dated as of December 31, 1998
and the related statements of operations, stockholders' equity and cash flow for
the fiscal year then ended, and (ii) the Borrower's unaudited balance sheet
dated as of June 30, 1999 and the related statements of operations,
stockholders' equity and cash flow for the six months then ended (collectively,
the "Financial Statements"); and
--------------------
(b) the Borrower's balance sheet attached as SCHEDULE 4.01 showing its pro
------------- ---
forma financial condition as of the Closing Date (the "Opening Balance Sheet").
- ----- ---------------------
The Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with GAAP. Since
the respective dates of the most recent Financial Statements, there has been no
material adverse change in the assets, properties, business or condition
(financial or otherwise) of the Borrower. The Companies have no contingent
liabilities or other obligations other than as set forth in the Opening Balance
Sheet. The Opening Balance Sheet fairly represents in all material respects the
Borrower's pro forma financial condition as of the date thereof. The financial
--- -----
projections submitted to the Lenders by the Borrower (including all projections
set forth in the Budget) are believed by the Borrower to be reasonable as of the
date hereof in light of all information presently known by the Borrower.
SECTION 4.02. ORGANIZATION, QUALIFICATION, ETC. Each of the Companies
------------ ---------------------------------
(a) is a corporation, duly organized, validly existing and in good standing
under the laws of its state of incorporation, all as specified in SCHEDULE 4.02,
-------------
(b) has the power and authority to own its properties and to carry on its
business as now being conducted and as presently contemplated, (c) has the power
and authority to execute and deliver, and perform its obligations under, this
Agreement, the Notes and each of the other Loan Documents and (d) is duly
qualified to transact business in the jurisdictions specified in SCHEDULE 4.02
-------------
and in each other jurisdiction where the nature of its activities requires such
qualification, except where the failure to so qualify would not have Material
Adverse Effect. Except as specified on SCHEDULE 4.02, none of the Companies has
-------------
any Subsidiaries.
SECTION 4.03. AUTHORIZATION; COMPLIANCE; ETC. The execution and
------------ -------------------------------
delivery of, and performance by the Companies of their respective obligations
under, this Agreement and the other Loan Documents have been duly authorized by
all requisite corporate action and will not violate any provision of law, any
order, judgment or decree of any court or other agency of government, the
charter documents or by-laws of any corporate Company, or any indenture,
agreement or other instrument to which any Company is a party, or by which any
Company is
22
<PAGE>
bound or result in a breach of, or constitute (with due notice or lapse of time
or both) a default under, or except as may be permitted under this Agreement,
result in the creation or imposition of any lien, charge or encumbrance of any
nature whatsoever upon any of the property or assets of any Company pursuant to,
any such indenture, agreement or instrument that would have a Material Adverse
Effect. Each of the Loan Documents constitutes the valid and binding obligation
of each of the Companies and any of their Affiliates party thereto, enforceable
against such party in accordance with its terms, subject, however to bankruptcy,
insolvency, reorganization, moratorium and similar laws affecting the rights and
remedies of creditors generally or the application of principles of equity,
whether in any action in law or proceeding in equity, and subject to the
availability of the remedy of specific performance or of any other equitable
remedy or relief to enforce any right under any such agreement.
SECTION 4.04. GOVERNMENTAL AND OTHER CONSENTS, ETC. Except for
------------ -------------------------------------
filings and recording required under SECTION 2.01 and the Security Documents and
except as set forth in SCHEDULE 4.04, none of the Companies is required to
-------------
obtain any material consent, approval or authorization from or to file any
declaration or statement with or to give any notice to, any Governmental
Authority or any other Person (including, without limitation, any notices
required under the applicable bulk sales law) in connection with or as a
condition to the execution, delivery or performance of any of the Loan
Documents. Except as set forth in such SCHEDULE 4.04, all consents, approvals
-------------
and authorizations described in such Schedule have been duly granted and are in
full force and effect on the date hereof and all filings described in such
Schedule have been properly and timely made.
SECTION 4.05. COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS AND AGREEMENTS. None of the
------------ -----------------------------------
Companies is in violation of any provision of its corporate charter or by-laws
or any other organizational documents, as the case may be, or of any indenture,
agreement or instrument to which it is a party or by which it is bound or of any
provision of law, the violation of which could have a Material Adverse Effect,
or any order, judgment or decree of any court or other agency of government to
which it is subject.
SECTION 4.06. PROPRIETARY RIGHTS.
------------ ------------------
The Companies possess or have the rights to all trade names, trademarks,
copyrights and other proprietary rights necessary for the operation of the
Companies' businesses, free and clear of any attachments, liens, encumbrances or
adverse claims (except to the extent the absence thereof has not had, and could
not reasonably be expected to have, a Material Adverse Effect), and neither the
present or contemplated activities or products of any of such entities infringe
any such trade names, trademarks, copyrights or other proprietary rights of
others. Each of such trade names, trademarks, copyrights and other rights is in
full force and effect and no material default has occurred and is continuing
thereunder. All such proprietary rights that have been registered, or as to
which registration applications have been submitted, are described on SCHEDULE
--------
4.06.
- ----
SECTION 4.07. LITIGATION. Except as specified in SCHEDULE 4.07, there
------------ ---------- -------------
is no action, suit or proceeding at law or in equity or by or before any
governmental instrumentality or other agency
23
<PAGE>
pending or, to the knowledge of the Borrower, threatened (nor is any basis
therefor known to the Borrower), as of the date hereof (a) that questions the
validity of any of the Loan Documents, or any action taken or to be taken
pursuant hereto or thereto, in a manner or to an extent that would have a
Material Adverse Effect, or (b) against or affecting any Company that, if
adversely determined, either in any case or in the aggregate, would have a
Material Adverse Effect.
SECTION 4.08. MATERIAL AGREEMENTS. In addition to the proprietary
------------
rights described in SECTION 4.06, the Companies possess all other material
contract rights, including co-location agreements, line access agreements,
distribution agreements, subscription agreements, noncompetition agreements and
employment agreements that are reasonably necessary for the operation of the
Companies' businesses. Each of the foregoing rights and agreements is in full
force and effect and no material default has occurred and is continuing
thereunder.
SECTION 4.09. TITLE TO PROPERTIES; CONDITION OF PROPERTIES.
------------ --------------------------------------------
(a) Except for Permitted Liens, the Companies have good title to all of
their properties and assets free and clear of all mortgages, security interests,
restrictions, liens and encumbrances of any kind, including without limitation
liens or encumbrances in respect of unpaid taxes (collectively, "Liens"), except
-----
liens and encumbrances contemplated by and permitted under this Agreement.
(b) None of the Companies owns any fee interest in any real property as of
the date hereof.
(c) Each of the Companies enjoys quiet possession under all leases to which
it is a party as lessee, and all of such leases are valid, subsisting and in
full force and effect. None of such leases contains any provision restricting
the incurrence of indebtedness by the lessee.
Section 4.10. SOLVENCY.
------------ --------
(a) The aggregate amount of the full salable value of the assets and
properties of each Company exceeds the amount that will be required to be paid
on or in respect of such Company's existing debts and other liabilities
(including contingent liabilities) as they mature.
(b) No Company's assets and properties constitute unreasonably small capital
for such Company to carry out its business as now conducted and as proposed to
be conducted, including such Company's capital needs, taking into the account
the particular capital requirements of such Company's business and the projected
capital requirements and capital availability thereof.
(c) The Companies do not have debts beyond their ability to pay such debts
as they mature, taking into account the timing and amounts of cash reasonably
anticipated to be received by each Company and the amounts of cash reasonably
anticipated to be payable on or in respect of each Company's obligations.
24
<PAGE>
(d) The Borrower believes that no reasonably anticipated final judgment in a
pending action or, to its knowledge, any threatened actions for money damages
will be rendered at a time when, or in an amount such that, any Company will be
unable to satisfy such judgment promptly in accordance with its terms (taking
into account the maximum reasonable amount thereof and the earliest reasonable
time at which such judgment might be rendered). The cash available to each
Company, after taking into account all other anticipated uses of cash (including
the payment of all such Company's indebtedness) is anticipated to be sufficient
to pay any such judgment promptly in accordance with their terms.
(e) No Company is contemplating either the filing of a petition by it under
any state or federal bankruptcy or insolvency laws or the liquidating of all or
a substantial portion of its property, and the Borrower has no knowledge of any
Person contemplating the filing of any such petition against any Company.
SECTION 4.11. FULL DISCLOSURE. No statement of fact made by or on
------------ ---------------
behalf of any of the Companies in this Agreement, the Security Documents, the
Registration Statement or in any certificate or schedule furnished to the
Lenders pursuant hereto or thereto contains any untrue statement of a material
fact or omits to state any fact necessary to make statements contained in any
such writing not misleading. There is no fact presently known to the Borrower
that has not been disclosed to the Lenders in writing that has had, or could
reasonably be expected to have, a Material Adverse Effect. The Borrower hereby
confirms to the Agent and each of the Lenders the truth, accuracy and
completeness of the information included in the Registration Statement.
SECTION 4.12. MARGIN STOCK. The Companies do not own or have any
------------ ------------
present intention of acquiring any "margin stock" within the meaning of
Regulation U (12 CFR Part 221), of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve
System (herein called "Margin Stock").
------------
SECTION 4.13. TAX RETURNS. Each of the Companies has filed when due
------------ -----------
all federal, state and local tax and information returns required to be filed,
and has paid or made adequate provision for the payment of all material federal,
state and local taxes, franchise fees, charges and assessments shown thereon.
SECTION 4.14. PENSION PLANS, ETC.
------------ -------------------
(a) Except as described in SCHEDULE 4.14, neither the Borrower nor any
-------------
member of the Controlled Group has any pension, profit sharing or other similar
plan providing for a program of deferred compensation to any employee.
(b) Neither the Borrower nor any member of the Controlled Group has any
material liability (i) under Section 412 of the Code for failure to satisfy the
minimum funding requirements for pension plans, (ii) as the result of the
termination of a defined benefit plan under Title IV of ERISA, (iii) under
Section 4201 of ERISA for withdrawal or partial withdrawal from a multi-employer
plan, or (iv) for participation in a prohibited transaction with an employee
benefit plan as described in Section 406 of ERISA and Section 4975 of the Code.
25
<PAGE>
SECTION 4.15. PROJECTIONS. Attached as SCHEDULE 4.15 are annual
------------ ----------- -------------
projections as of the date hereof of the operation of the Companies' businesses
through [December 31, 2004] (the "Projections"). Such Projections represent the
-----------
Borrower's reasonable estimate of future performance, but should not be
construed as a guarantee of future results.
SECTION 4.16. BROKERS, ETC. None of the Companies is under any
------------ -------------
obligation to pay any broker's fee, finder's fee or commission in connection
with the Loans contemplated by this Agreement.
SECTION 4.17. CAPITALIZATION. Attached as SCHEDULE 4.17 is a
------------ -------------- -------------
description of the equity capital structure of the Companies showing, for each
Company, accurate ownership percentages of the equityholders of record and
accompanied by a statement of authorized and issued Equity Securities for each
Company as of the date hereof. Such SCHEDULE 4.17 also includes as of the date
-------------
hereof a narrative indicating (a) which securities, if any, carry preemptive
rights; (b) whether there are any outstanding subscriptions, warrants or options
to purchase any securities; (c) whether any Company is obligated to redeem or
repurchase any of its securities, and the details of any such committed
redemption or repurchase; and (d) any other agreement, arrangement or plan to
which any Company is a party or of which the Borrower has knowledge that could
directly or indirectly affect the capital structure of the Companies. All such
Equity Securities (i) are validly issued and fully paid and non-assessable and
(ii) are owned of record and beneficially (except that the Borrower makes no
representation or warranty as to the beneficial ownership of the issued and
outstanding Equity Securities of the Parent) as set forth on SCHEDULE 4.17, free
-------------
of any assignment, pledge, lien, security interest, charge, option or other
encumbrance, except for liens and security interests granted to the Agent or the
Lenders or permitted under SECTION 7.02.
Section 4.18. ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE .
------------ ------------------------
(a) All real property leased by the Companies (the "Properties") and their
----------
existing and, to the Borrower's knowledge, prior uses and activities thereon,
including, but not limited to, the use, maintenance and operation of each of the
Properties and all activities of the Borrower in conduct of business related
thereto comply and have at all times complied with all Environmental Laws the
violation of which could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse
Effect.
(b) None of the Companies, and to the Borrower's knowledge, no previous
owner, tenant, occupant or user of any of the Properties or any other Person,
has engaged in or permitted any operations or activities upon any of the
Properties for the purpose of or in any way involving the handling, manufacture,
treatment, storage, use, generation, release, discharge, refining, dumping or
disposal of a material amount of any Hazardous Materials in violation of any
Environmental Law that could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse
Effect.
(c) To the Borrower's knowledge, no Hazardous Material has been or is
currently located in, on, under or about any of the Properties in a manner which
violates any Environmental Law or which requires cleanup or corrective action of
any kind under any Environmental Law that in either case could reasonably be
expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
26
<PAGE>
(d) No notice of violation, lien, complaint, suit, order or other notice or
communication concerning any alleged violation of any Environmental Law in, on,
under or about any of the Properties has been received by any Company or, to the
Borrower's knowledge, any prior owner or occupant of any of the Properties that
could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
(e) The Companies have all material permits and licenses required under any
Environmental Law to be issued to them by any Governmental Authority for
activities on any of the Properties, except to the extent that the absence of
any such permit or license could not reasonably be expected to have a Material
Adverse Effect, and are in material compliance with the terms and conditions of
such permits and licenses except to the extent failure to comply therewith could
not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. To the Borrower's
knowledge, such permits or licenses are in full force and effect.
(f) To the Borrower's knowledge, no portion of any of the Properties has
been listed, designated or identified in the National Priorities List (NPL) or
the CERCLA information system (CERCLIS), both as published by the United States
Environmental Protection Agency, or any similar list of sites published by any
Federal, state or local authority proposed for or requiring cleanup, or remedial
or corrective action under any Environmental Law.
SECTION 4.19. INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT. None of the Companies is an
------------ ----------------------
"investment company" within the meaning of the Investment Company Act of 1940,
as amended, or a "holding company," or a "subsidiary company" of a "holding
company," or an "affiliate" of a "holding company," or of a "subsidiary company"
of a "holding company," within the meaning of the Public Utility Holding Company
Act of 1935, as amended.
SECTION 4.20. LABOR MATTERS. No Company is experiencing any strike,
------------ -------------
labor dispute, slow down or work stoppage due to labor disagreements; to the
knowledge of the Companies, there is no such strike, dispute, slow down or work
stoppage threatened against any Company and none of the Companies is subject to
any collective bargaining or similar arrangements, which, in any case, could
reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
SECTION 4.21. YEAR 2000. The Borrower's billing system is Year 2000
------------ ---------
Compliant. In addition, each of the Companies has reviewed the Year 2000 Risk
and acknowledges the actions necessary to ensure that the Year 2000 Risk will
not have a Material Adverse Effect.
SECTION 4.22. HART-SCOTT RODINO ACT. All filings, if any, under the
------------ ---------------------
Hart-Scott-Rodino Act required in connection with any Acquisition or otherwise
in connection with any Company have been completed and all applicable time
limitations under such Act have expired or been terminated without a request for
future information by the relevant federal authorities under such Act, or in the
event of any such request was made, all applicable time limitations under the
Hart-Scott-Rodino Act have expired without the objection of such federal
authorities.
27
<PAGE>
V. FINANCIAL COVENANTS. The Borrower covenants and agrees that, so
-------------------
long as any Lender has any obligation to extend credit to the Borrower
hereunder, and for so long thereafter as there remains outstanding any portion
of the principal of, or interest on, any Note or any other Obligations, whether
now existing or arising hereafter, the Companies will (on a consolidated basis,
as applicable):
SECTION 5.01. LEVERAGE. Maintain a ratio of (a) Total Funded Debt as of
----------- --------
each Quarterly Date during each period indicated below to (b) Annualized
Operating Cash Flow for the fiscal quarter then ended not exceeding the
following:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MAXIMUM RATIO OF
TOTAL FUNDED DEBT TO
PERIOD ANNUALIZED OPERATING CASH FLOW
------ ------------------------------
<S> <C>
Closing Date through December 31, 1999 3.50:1.00
January 1, 2000 through September 30, 2000 3.25:1.00
October 1, 2000 through June 30, 2001 3.00:1.00
July 1, 2001 and thereafter 2.50:1.00
</TABLE>
SECTION 5.02. FIXED CHARGES. Maintain a ratio of at least that
------------ -------------
indicated below of (a) Annualized Operating Cash Flow for each fiscal quarter
ending on the Quarterly Dates indicated below minus Capital Expenditures made
during the twelve month period ending on the last day of such fiscal quarter to
(b) Fixed Charges for such fiscal quarter multiplied by four (4):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FISCAL QUARTER ENDING MINIMUM FIXED CHARGES RATIO
- --------------------- ---------------------------
<S> <C>
December 31, 1999 through June 30, 2000 1.15:1.00
July 1, 2000 and thereafter 1.25:1.00
</TABLE>
SECTION 5.03. TOTAL INTEREST COVERAGE. For each fiscal quarter
------------ -----------------------
ending on the Quarterly Dates indicated below, maintain a ratio of Pro Forma
Operating Cash Flow for such period to Total Interest Expense for such period
(the "Total Interest Coverage Ratio") not less than the following:
-----------------------------
28
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MINIMUM TOTAL
FISCAL QUARTER ENDING INTEREST COVERAGE
--------------------- -----------------
<S> <C>
June 30, 1999 through December 31, 1999 2.00:1.00
January 1, 2000 through December 31, 2000 2.25:1.00
January 1, 2001 and thereafter 2.50:1.00
</TABLE>
SECTION 5.04. MAXIMUM CHURN. For the fiscal quarter ending on June 30,
------------ -------------
1999 and September 30, 1999, experience average monthly Churn during each period
of not more than 3.00%.
VI. AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS. The Borrower hereby covenants and
---------------------
agrees to and with each of the Lenders that, so long as any Lender has any
obligation to extend credit to the Borrower hereunder, and for so long
thereafter as there remains outstanding any portion of any Obligation, whether
now existing or hereafter arising, each of the Companies shall:
SECTION 6.01. PRESERVATION OF ASSETS; COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS; THIRD PARTY
------------ ---------------------------------------------------------
CONSENTS, ETC.
- -------------
(a) Do or cause to be done all things necessary to preserve, renew and keep
in full force and effect its existence as a corporation, a limited partnership
or limited liability company, as the case may be, all material contract and
other rights, licenses, permits and franchises and comply in every material
respect with all laws and regulations applicable to it and all material
agreements to which it is a party, including, without limitation, management
agreements, co-location agreements, line access agreements, and all agreements
with its equityholders, the violation of which could reasonably be expected to
have a Material Adverse Effect;
(b) at all times maintain, preserve and protect all material trade names
and other proprietary rights; and
(c) assure that all new management agreements, co-location agreements and
line access agreements (including, without limitation, renewals of existing
agreements) may be collaterally assigned to the Lenders as contemplated by
SECTION 2.01.
(d) preserve all the remainder of its material property used or useful in
the conduct of its business and keep the same in good repair, working order and
condition (reasonable wear and tear and damage by fire or other casualty
excepted), and from time to time, make or cause to be made all needful and
proper repairs, renewals, replacements, betterments and improvements thereto, so
that the business carried on in connection therewith may be conducted at all
times in the ordinary course in a manner substantially consistent with past
practices.
29
<PAGE>
SECTION 6.02. INSURANCE.
------------ ---------
(a) Keep all of its insurable properties now or hereafter owned adequately
insured at all times against loss or damage by fire or other casualty to the
extent customary with respect to like properties of companies conducting similar
businesses; maintain public liability, business interruption, liability and
workers' compensation insurance and insurance against claims of libel and
defamation and copyright and other proprietary right infringement, maintain
insurance with respect to its printing and other production facilities and
related equipment in an amount equal to the full replacement cost thereof, in
each case insuring such Company to the extent customary (and as permitted under
applicable law) with respect to companies conducting similar businesses, all by
financially sound and reputable insurers and furnish to the Agent satisfactory
evidence of the same (including certification by an Authorized Officer of timely
renewal of, and timely payment of all insurance premiums payable under, all such
policies, which certification shall be included in the next succeeding
Compliance Report delivered pursuant to SECTION 6.05); notify the Agent of any
material change in the insurance maintained on its properties after the date
hereof and furnish each of the Lenders satisfactory evidence of any such change;
provide that each insurance policy pertaining to any of its insurable properties
shall: (i) name the Agent, on behalf of the Lenders, as loss payee pursuant to
a so-called "standard mortgagee clause" or "Lender's loss payable endorsement",
or as additional insured (as appropriate), (ii) provide that no action of any
Company shall void such policy as to the Agent or the Lenders, and (iii) provide
that the insurer(s) shall notify the Agent of any proposed cancellation of such
policy at least thirty (30) days in advance thereof (unless such proposed
cancellation arises by reason of non-payment of insurance premiums in which case
such notice shall be given at least ten (10) days in advance thereof) and that
the Agent or the Lenders will have the opportunity to correct any deficiencies
justifying such proposed cancellation.
(b) Promptly following the occurrence of any Casualty Event affecting any
asset or property of any Company (whether or not such property constitutes
Collateral) (the "Damaged Property") resulting in Insurance Proceeds aggregating
----------------
$500,000 or more, give prompt notice thereof to the Agent and cause all of such
Insurance Proceeds to be paid to the Agent for deposit into the Collateral
Account, as additional collateral security for the payment of the Obligations,
pending disbursement thereof as hereinafter provided. If, on or before the last
day of the applicable Restoration Period, the Borrower or any Subsidiary shall
not have restored, repaired or replaced the Damaged Property (or, if earlier, on
the date following the deposit of such Insurance Proceeds such Company shall
have determined not to restore, repair or replace the Damaged Property) the
Insurance Proceeds so deposited in the Collateral Account shall be applied in
accordance with and to the extent required in SECTION 1.05(b).
(c) In the event of a Casualty Event affecting any Damaged Property,
whether or not subject to SECTION 6.02(B), and provided that no Event of Default
shall have occurred and be continuing, the Agent or the Lenders will deliver to
the Borrower (for the benefit of such Company) any Insurance Proceeds therefrom,
if the Borrower so elects following notice thereof provided by the Agent,
provided that (i) such Company shall use such proceeds for the repair
- --------
restoration or replacement of the Damaged Property within the applicable
Restoration Period, (ii) the Borrower shall have demonstrated to the reasonable
satisfaction of the Lenders that the
30
<PAGE>
Damaged Property will be repaired or restored to substantially its previous
condition or will be replaced by substantially identical property or assets and
(iii) if the Agent, on behalf of the Lenders, had a security interest in and
lien upon the Damaged Property, the Lenders shall have received, at their
request, a favorable opinion from the Borrower's counsel, in form and substance
reasonably satisfactory to the Agent, as to the perfection of the Agent's
security interest in and lien upon such restored or replaced property or asset
and such evidence satisfactory to the Agent as to the priority of such security
interest and liens. If the Borrower fails to elect the disbursement of such
Insurance Proceeds as provided in the foregoing sentence within thirty (30) days
following receipt of the Agent's notice, the Borrower shall be deemed to have
elected that such Insurance Proceeds be applied to the prepayment of the Loans
and, if the related Casualty Event was subject to SECTION 6.02(b), the permanent
reduction of the Commitments provided in SECTION 1.05.
(d) If the Borrower receives any disbursements of Insurance Proceeds as
contemplated by SECTION 6.02(c), but fails to repair, restore or replace the
Damaged Property within the applicable Restoration Period, as required under
SECTION 6.02(c), then the Borrower shall return all such disbursements to the
Agent for application, together with the balance of any related Insurance
Proceeds not so disbursed, to the prepayment of the Loans and, if the related
Casualty Event was subject to SECTION 6.02(b), the permanent reduction of the
Commitments provided in SECTION 1.06.
(e) The Agent may, if directed by the Required Lenders upon the occurrence
and during the existence of any Default, elect to apply any Insurance Proceeds
paid into the Collateral Account or otherwise received by the Agent pursuant to
this SECTION 6.02 to the replacement, restoration and/or repair of the Damaged
Property, in lieu of effecting the prepayment of the Loans required under
SECTION 1.05(b) or 6.02(a) through (d).
(f) If the Borrower or the Agent elects to replace, restore and/or repair
the Damaged Property as provided in SECTION 6.02(c) OR (e), the related
Insurance Proceeds (and any earnings thereon) held in the Collateral Account
shall be applied to the replacement, restoration and repair of the Damaged
Property and advanced by the Agent in periodic installments upon compliance by
the Borrower with such reasonable conditions to disbursement as may be imposed
by the Agent, including, but not limited to, reasonable retention amounts and
receipt of lien releases and, if a Casualty Event results in the Agent's receipt
of Insurance Proceeds aggregating $100,000 or more, disbursement of such
Insurance Proceeds to the Borrower.
(g) Following the occurrence and the continuance of any Default, the Agent
shall have no obligation to release any proceeds from the Collateral Account to
the Borrower as provided above and all such proceeds shall be subject to the
provisions of the Security Agreements. All Insurance Proceeds remaining in the
Collateral Account after application to the repair, replacement and/or
restoration of Damaged Property pursuant to this Section may, at the option of
the Agent, be applied to the prepayment of the Loans or (if consented to by the
Required Lenders) released to the Borrower.
31
<PAGE>
(h) With respect to any Casualty Event resulting in Insurance Proceeds
aggregating $500,000 or more, the Agent shall be entitled at its option to
participate in any compromise, adjustment or settlement in connection with any
claims for damage or destruction under any policy or policies of insurance, and
the Borrower shall, within five (5) Business Days after request therefor,
reimburse the Agent for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses (including
reasonable attorneys' fees and disbursements) incurred by the Agent in
connection with such participation. None of the Companies shall make any
compromise, adjustment or settlement in connection with any such claim resulting
in Insurance Proceeds aggregating $500,000 or more without the approval of the
Agent.
(i) To the extent, if any, that any improved real property (whether owned
or leased) of the Companies that is mortgaged as required under SECTION 2.01(A)
is situated in a flood zone designated as type "A", "B" or "V" by the U.S.
Department of Housing and Urban Development, obtain and maintain flood insurance
in coverage and amount satisfactory to the Agent.
SECTION 6.03. TAXES, ETC. Pay and discharge or cause to be paid and
--------------------------
discharged all taxes, assessments and governmental charges or levies imposed
upon it or upon its income and profits or upon any of its property, real,
personal or mixed, or upon any part thereof, before the same shall become in
default, as well as all lawful claims for labor, materials and supplies or
otherwise, which, if unpaid, would become a lien or charge upon such properties
or any part thereof; provided that no Company shall be required to pay and
--------
discharge or cause to be paid and discharged any such tax, assessment, charge,
levy or claim so long as the validity thereof shall be contested in good faith
by appropriate proceedings and it shall have set aside on its books adequate
reserves with respect to any such tax, assessment, charge, levy or claim, so
contested; and provided, further that, in any event, payment of any such tax,
assessment, charge, levy or claim shall be made before any of its property shall
be seized or sold in satisfaction thereof.
SECTION 6.04. NOTICE OF PROCEEDINGS, DEFAULTS, ADVERSE CHANGE, ETC.
------------ -----------------------------------------------------
Promptly (and in any event within five (5) days after the discovery by the
Borrower thereof) give written notice to each of the Lenders of (a) any
proceedings instituted or threatened in writing against it by or in any federal,
state or local court or before any commission or other regulatory body, whether
federal, state or local which could reasonably be expected to have a Material
Adverse Effect; (b) any notices of default received by any Company (together
with copies thereof, if requested by any Lender) with respect to (i) any alleged
default under or violation of any of its material licenses, permits or
franchises (including any material agreement to which it is a party, or (ii) any
alleged default with respect to, or acceleration or other action under any
evidence of material Indebtedness of any Company or any mortgage, indenture or
other agreement relating thereto; (c) (i) any notice of any violation or
administrative or judicial complaint or order filed or to be filed against any
Company and/or any real property owned or leased by it alleging any material
violations of any law, ordinance and/or regulation or requiring it to take any
action in connection with the release and/or clean-up of any Hazardous
Materials, or (ii) any notice from any governmental body or other Person
alleging that any Company is or may be liable for costs associated with a
release or clean-up of any Hazardous Materials or any damages resulting from
such release; (d) any event of dissolution; (e) any change in the condition,
financial or otherwise, of any Company which is reasonably likely to have a
Material Adverse Effect; or (f) the occurrence of any Default or the occurrence
of any event which, upon notice or lapse of time or both, would constitute such
a Default.
32
<PAGE>
Section 6.05. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND REPORTS. Furnish to the
------------ --------------------------------
Agent (with multiple copies for each of the Lenders):
(a) Within ninety (90) days after the end of each fiscal year, the
consolidated and consolidating (or, if applicable, combined and combining)
balance sheets and statements of income, stockholders', partners' or members'
equity (as applicable) and cash flows of the Companies, together with supporting
schedules in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Lenders, audited
by an independent certified public accountants of national reputation selected
by the Borrower and reasonably satisfactory to the Lenders (the "Accountants"),
-----------
the opinion to be unqualified, (i) showing the financial condition of the
Borrower and all of its Subsidiaries at the close of such fiscal year and the
results of operations during such year, (ii) containing a statement to the
effect that the Accountants have examined the provisions of this Agreement and
that in the course of their examination they did not become aware of any Event
of Default, or any event which upon notice or lapse of time or both would
constitute an Event of Default, under ARTICLE V or otherwise (or, if such an
event has occurred, a statement explaining its nature and extent) and (iii)
without disclaiming the Accountants' obligation to address the Year 2000 Risk as
it relates to liabilities or contingent liabilities of the Borrower or any of
its Subsidiaries or the failure of any Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries to
take all necessary and appropriate steps to address the Year 2000 Risk;
provided, however, that in issuing such statement, the Accountants shall not be
- --------
required to exceed the scope of normal auditing procedures conducted in
connection with their opinion referred to above;
(b) Within forty-five (45) days after the end of each quarter in each
fiscal year, commencing with the fiscal quarter ending June 30, 1998, the
consolidated (or, if applicable, combined) balance sheets and statements of
income, stockholders', partners' or members' equity (as applicable) and cash
flows of the Companies, together with supporting schedules, setting forth in
each case in comparative form the corresponding figures from the preceding
fiscal period of the same duration, prepared by the Borrower in accordance with
GAAP (except for the absence of notes) and certified by an Authorized Officer,
such balance sheets to be as of the close of such quarter, and such statements
of income, stockholders', equity and cash flow to be for the quarter then ended
and the period from the beginning of the then current fiscal year to the end of
such quarter (in each case subject to normal audit and year-end adjustments) and
to include (i) a comparison of actual results to results for the comparable
period of the preceding fiscal year and projected results set forth in the
Budget for such period and (ii) a profit and loss statement for each product
line and business unit for the quarter then ended and the period from the
beginning of the then current fiscal year to the end of such quarter;
(c) Within thirty (30) days after the end of each month, the consolidated
(or, if applicable, combined) balance sheet and statements of income,
stockholders' equity and cash flow of the Companies, together with supporting
schedules, prepared by the Borrower in accordance with GAAP (except for the
absence of notes) and certified by an Authorized Officer, such balance sheets to
be as of the end of such month and income statements to be for the period from
the beginning of the then current fiscal year to the end of such month (subject
to normal audit and year-end adjustments);
33
<PAGE>
(d) Concurrently with the delivery of any annual financial statements
required by SECTION 6.05(a) and any quarterly financial statements required by
SECTION 6.05(b), a report in the form of SCHEDULE 6.05 attached hereto (or
otherwise in a form satisfactory to the Agent) signed on behalf of the Borrower
by an Authorized Officer (each a "Compliance Report"), setting forth the
-----------------
calculations contemplated in ARTICLE V of this Agreement and certifying as to
the fact that such Person has examined the provisions of this Agreement and that
no Event of Default nor any event which upon notice or lapse of time, or both,
would constitute such an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing;
(e) (i) On or before January 31 of each fiscal year, commencing January 31,
1999, an updated monthly cost budget of the Borrower, including planned Capital
Expenditures and projected borrowings for such fiscal year, with updated
Projections showing financial covenant compliance (collectively, the "Budget"),
------
for the operation of the Companies' businesses during such fiscal year, setting
forth in detail reasonably satisfactory to the Lenders the projected results of
operations of the Companies and stating underlying assumptions, and (ii) within
five (5) days after the effective date thereof, notice of any material changes
or modifications in the Budget (which shall not include changes resulting from
immaterial adjustments to the timing of any proposed borrowings);
(f) Promptly upon receipt or issuance thereof, and in any event within five
(5) Business Days after such receipt, copies of all audit reports submitted to
any Company by its accountants in connection with each yearly, interim or
special audit of the books of any Company made by such accountants, including
any material related correspondence between such accountants and the Borrower's
management;
(g) Within ten (10) Business Days after the receipt or filing thereof by
any Company, copies of (i) any registration statements, prospectuses and any
amendments and supplements thereto, and any regular and periodic reports
(including without limitation reports on Form 10-K, Form 10-Q or Form 8-K), if
any, filed by any Company with any securities exchange or with the United States
Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"); and (ii) any letters of comment
---
or correspondence with respect to filings or compliance matters sent to any
Company by any such securities commission or the SEC in relation to any Company
and its respective affairs; and
(h) As soon as reasonably possible after request therefor, such other
information regarding its operations, assets, business, affairs and financial
condition or regarding any of the Companies as the Agent may reasonably request,
including copies of any and all material agreements to which any Company is a
party from time to time.
SECTION 6.06. INSPECTION. Permit employees, agents and representatives
------------ ----------
of the Lenders to inspect, during normal business hours, its premises, its books
and records (and to make abstracts or reproductions thereof) and such other
facilities and systems of the Borrower, as any Lender may wish to inspect in
connection with the Year 2000 Risk and the Company's efforts to
34
<PAGE>
become Year 2000 Compliant in accordance with SECTION 6.12. In connection with
any such inspections, the Lenders will use reasonable efforts to avoid an
unreasonable disruption of the Companies' businesses and will give reasonable
advance notice thereof (provided, however, that during the existence of a
--------
Default, such notice will be provided only if circumstances reasonably warrant).
SECTION 6.07. ACCOUNTING SYSTEM. Prepare its financial statements in
------------ -----------------
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and maintain a fiscal
year ending December 31 for each of the Companies.
SECTION 6.08. ADDITIONAL ASSURANCES. From time to time hereafter:
------------ ---------------------
(a) execute and deliver or cause to be executed and delivered, such
additional instruments, certificates and documents, and take all such actions,
as the Agent or the Lenders shall reasonably request for the purpose of
implementing or effectuating the provisions of this Agreement and the other Loan
Documents, including without limitation, the execution and delivery to the Agent
of a mortgage or deed of trust or collateral assignment of lease or leasehold
mortgage in form and substance satisfactory to the Agent (in a recordable form
and in such number of copies as the Agent shall have requested) covering any
real property interests acquired (by ownership or lease) by any Company,
together with any necessary consents relating thereto; and
(b) upon the exercise by the Agent or the Lenders of any power, right,
privilege or remedy pursuant to this Agreement or any other Loan Document which
requires any consent, approval, registration, qualification or authorization of
any Governmental Authority, execute and deliver all applications,
certifications, instruments and other documents and papers that the Lenders may
be so required to obtain.
SECTION 6.09. COMPLIANCE WITH ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS.
------------ ----------------------------------
(a) Comply in all material respects with all Environmental Laws and not
generate, store, handle, process, dispose of or otherwise use and not generate,
store, handle, process, dispose of or otherwise use Hazardous Materials in, on,
under or about the Property in a manner that could lead or result in imposition
on any Company or the Agent or any Lender or any of the Properties of any
material liability or lien of any nature whatsoever under any Environmental Law.
(b) Notify the Agent promptly in the event of any spill or other release of
any Hazardous Material in, on, under or about any of the Properties which is
required to be reported to a Governmental Authority under any Environmental Law,
promptly forward to the Agent copies of any notices received by any Company
relating to any alleged violation of any Environmental Law and pay when due any
fine or assessment against the Lenders, any Company or any of the Properties
relating to any Environmental Law, the Borrower or such other Company, unless
payment of the same is being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings
and it shall have set aside on its books adequate reserves with respect thereto.
35
<PAGE>
(c) If at any time it is determined that the operation or use of any of the
Properties violates any applicable Environmental Law or that there is any
Hazardous Material located in, on, under or about the Properties which under any
Environmental Law requires special handling in collection, treatment, storage or
disposal or any other form of cleanup or remedial or corrective action, and such
requirement has been violated then, within thirty (30) days after receipt of
written notice thereof from a Governmental Authority (or such other time period
as may be specified in the notice sent by such Governmental Authority) or from
the Lenders, take, at its sole cost and expense, such actions as may be
necessary to comply in all material respects with any applicable Environmental
Laws, provided, however, that if such compliance cannot reasonably be completed
within such thirty (30) day period, the Borrower shall commence such necessary
action within such thirty (30) day period and shall thereafter diligently and
expeditiously proceed to comply in all material respects with any and all
applicable Environmental Laws. Nothing herein shall prohibit the Borrower from
asserting any good faith defenses against the government in any governmental
demands.
(d) If a lien is filed against any of the Properties by any Governmental
Authority resulting from the need to expend or the actual expending of monies
arising from an action or omission, whether intentional or unintentional, of any
Company or for which any Company is responsible, resulting in the releasing,
spilling, leaking, leaching, pumping, emitting, pouring, emptying or dumping of
any Hazardous Material in violation of an Environmental Law, then, within
thirty (30) days from the date that such Company is first given written notice
that such lien has been placed against the Properties, either (i) pay the claim
and remove the lien or (ii) furnish a cash deposit, bond or such other security
with respect thereto as is reasonably satisfactory in all respects to the
Lenders and is sufficient to effect a complete discharge of such lien on the
Properties.
SECTION 6.10. INTEREST RATE PROTECTION .
------------ ------------------------
(a) Within thirty (30) days after the date on which the aggregate amount of
the Loans exceed $25,000,000, keep in effect or enter into, and, thereafter,
maintain in full force and effect, one or more Rate Hedging Agreements
containing terms and conditions reasonably satisfactory to the Agent and
generally prevailing at such time and sufficient to ensure that at least fifty
percent (50%) of the outstanding principal balance of the Loans is protected at
all times against increases in the all-in interest rate thereon to a per annum
--- -----
rate in excess of ten percent (10%), in each case for a term extending for at
least twenty-four (24) months.
(b) Deliver to the Agent copies of each such Rate Hedging Agreement,
including any and all amendments thereto and substitutions thereof, and such
other documentation relating thereto as the Agent or the Lenders may from time
to time request.
SECTION 6.11. YEAR 2000 COMPLIANCE. Use its best efforts to ensure that
------------ --------------------
each Company remain Year 2000 Compliant. At the request of the Agent, Borrower
will provide the Agent evidence reasonably acceptable to the Agent that each
Company has complied with its obligations under the preceding sentence.
36
<PAGE>
SECTION 6.12. THE OFFERING. In connection with the consummation of the
------------ ------------
Offering, cause the net proceeds thereof (after reasonable and customary
expenses incurred in connection with the Offering) to be used as follows: (i)
first, $70,000,000 shall be contributed to the capital of the Borrower, (A) to
- -----
repay the Notes and the Borrower's obligations under the Original Agreement; (B)
to repay the Subordinated Debt, (C) for Permitted Acquisitions and (D) for
working capital purposes, (ii) second, the balance thereof shall be used to
------
redeem the outstanding shares of the Parent's Preferred Stock, $.01 par value,
and (iii) third, the remaining proceeds shall be contributed to the capital of
-----
the Borrower.
VII. NEGATIVE COVENANTS. The Borrower covenants and agrees that, so
------------------
long as any Lender has any obligation to extend credit to the Borrower
hereunder, and for so long thereafter as there remains outstanding any portion
of any Obligation, whether now existing or arising hereafter, unless the
Required Lenders shall otherwise consent in writing in accordance with the terms
of ARTICLE XII, none of the Companies will, directly or indirectly:
SECTION 7.01. INDEBTEDNESS. Incur, create, assume, become or be liable,
------------ ------------
directly, indirectly or contingently, in any manner with respect to, or permit
to exist, any Indebtedness or liability, except:
(a) Indebtedness of the Borrower to the Lenders hereunder and under the
Notes;
(b) the guaranties of the Subsidiaries required under SECTION 2.01;
(c) any Rate Hedging Obligations incurred in accordance with SECTION 6.11;
(d) Indebtedness existing on the date hereof and described in SCHEDULE
--------
7.01; provided however, that the terms of such indebtedness shall not be
- ---- -------- -------
modified or amended in any material respect, nor shall payment thereof be
extended, except as set forth on such SCHEDULE 7.01, without the prior written
-------------
consent of the Required Lenders;
(e) Indebtedness in respect of endorsements of negotiable instruments for
collection in the ordinary course of business;
(f) Indebtedness of the Companies under Capital Leases and purchase money
Indebtedness relating to the purchase price of real estate and equipment to be
used in the Companies' businesses, in the aggregate principal amount (including
any such amounts set forth on SCHEDULE 7.01 attached hereto) of not more than
-------------
$7,000,000 outstanding at any time; and
(g) loans between the Companies.
Section 7.02. LIENS. Create, incur, assume, suffer or permit to exist
------------ -----
any mortgage, pledge, lien, charge or other encumbrance of any nature whatsoever
on any of its assets or ownership interests, now or hereafter owned, other than
the following ("Permitted Liens"):
---------------
37
<PAGE>
(a) liens securing the payment of taxes, either not yet due or the validity
of which is being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings, and as to
which it shall have set aside on its books adequate reserves;
(b) deposits under workers' compensation, unemployment insurance and social
security laws, or to secure the performance of bids, tenders, contracts (other
than for the repayment of borrowed money) or leases, or to secure statutory
obligations or surety or appeal bonds, or to secure indemnity, performance or
other similar bonds arising in the ordinary course of business;
(c) liens existing on the date hereof and described on SCHEDULE 7.02
-------------
attached hereto;
(d) liens against the Companies imposed by law, such as vendors',
carriers', lessors', warehouser's or mechanics' liens, incurred by it in good
faith in the ordinary course of business;
(e) liens arising out of a prejudgment attachment, a judgment or award
against it with respect to which it shall currently be prosecuting an appeal, a
stay of execution pending such appeal having been secured, except any such lien
arising in connection with a judgment, attachment or proceeding which gives rise
to an Event of Default under paragraph (i) or (j) of ARTICLE VIII;
(f) liens in favor of the Agent or the Lenders securing the Notes, any
intercompany notes assigned to the Agent and the Lenders as collateral therefor
and the other obligations of the Companies to the Lenders hereunder or under
Rate Hedging Obligations entered into with any Lender or any Lender's Affiliate;
(g) liens against the Companies arising under or securing Capital Leases
and liens or mortgages securing purchase money Indebtedness described in SECTION
7.01(f), provided that the obligation secured by any such lien shall not exceed
one hundred percent (100%) of the lesser of cost or fair market value as of the
time of the acquisition of the property covered thereby and that each such lien
or mortgage shall at all times be limited solely to the item or items of
property so acquired; and
(h) restrictions, easements and minor irregularities in title which do not
and will not interfere with the occupation, use and enjoyment by any Company of
such properties and assets in the normal course of its business as presently
conducted or materially impair the value of such properties and assets for the
purpose of such business.
SECTION 7.03. DISPOSITION OF ASSETS; ETC. Sell, lease, transfer or
------------ --------------------------
otherwise dispose of its properties, assets, rights, licenses and franchises to
any Person (including without limitation dispositions in exchange for similar
assets and properties and commonly referred to as "asset swaps") (all of the
foregoing being referred to herein as a "Disposition") in excess of $5,000,000,
-----------
individually or $15,000,000 in the aggregate, and except for Dispositions made
in the ordinary course of business (including the Disposition, without
replacement, of equipment which is obsolete or no longer needed by the Companies
in the conduct of their businesses and the replacement of equipment with other
equipment of at least equal utility and value (provided that the Agent's or the
--------
Lenders' lien upon such proceeds and newly acquired equipment shall have the
same priority as the Agent's or the Lenders' lien upon the replaced equipment
subject to any prior liens permitted by SECTION 7.02(g)).
38
<PAGE>
SECTION 7.04. FUNDAMENTAL CHANGES; ACQUISITIONS; RESTRICTED PAYMENTS .
------------ ------------------------------------------------------
(A) PROHIBITED CHANGES AND TRANSACTIONS.
-----------------------------------
(i) Form any Subsidiary or otherwise change the equity capital
structure or organization of the Companies from that set forth in
SCHEDULE 4.17, (other than (A) a Telecommunications Subsidiary and as
-------------
permitted in connection with a Permitted Acquisition, or (B) changes to
the equity structure of the Parent as a result of issuances under the
Plan) in each case, subject to Borrower's compliance with SECTION 2.01;
(ii) Permit or suffer any amendment of its charter, by-laws or other
organizational documents that could have a Material Adverse Effect (it
being expressly agreed that the inclusion in any such charter documents
of any provision similar to those set forth in Section 102(b)(2) of Title
8 of the Delaware Code is prohibited under this Section);
(iii) Dissolve, liquidate, consolidate with or merge with any
other Person or otherwise effect any Change of Control;
(iv) Acquire any Person or all or any substantial portion of the
ownership interests or assets or properties of any corporation,
partnership, limited liability company or other entity or any other
material assets (in each case, an "Acquisition") other than Permitted
-----------
Acquisitions;
(v) Repurchase any shares of capital stock or partnership, membership
or other ownership interests, other than the repurchase of shares of an
employee upon the termination of employment of such employee in
accordance with the Plan or the applicable employee award under the Plan.
(vi) Issue any additional Equity Securities except for (i) common
stock of the Parent or options therefor issued in accordance with the
Plan; and (ii) Equity Securities issued in connection with the Offering,
subject to SECTION 6.12.
(B) RESTRICTED PAYMENTS. Directly or indirectly declare, order, pay or
-------------------
make any Restricted Payment or set aside any sum or property therefor.
39
<PAGE>
SECTION 7.05. MANAGEMENT. Turn over the day-to-day management of its
------------ ----------
properties, assets, rights, licenses and franchises to any Person other than a
full-time employee of the Companies.
SECTION 7.06. SALE AND LEASEBACK. Enter into any arrangements,
------------ ------------------
directly or indirectly, with any Person whereby it shall sell or transfer any
property, real, personal or mixed, used or useful in its business, whether now
owned or hereafter acquired, and thereafter rent or lease such property.
SECTION 7.07. INVESTMENTS. Except for Permitted Investments, purchase,
------------ -----------
invest in or otherwise acquire or hold securities, including, without
limitation, capital stock and evidences of indebtedness of, or make loans or
advances to, or enter into any arrangement for the purpose of providing funds or
credit to, any other Person (other than existing loans to certain officers and
stockholders as set forth on SCHEDULE 4.17).
-------------
SECTION 7.08. CHANGE IN BUSINESS. Engage, directly or indirectly, in
------------ ------------------
any business other than businesses of the Telecommunications Subsidiary or
otherwise reasonably related to the businesses in which it is currently engaged.
SECTION 7.09. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE. Sell, assign, discount or dispose
------------ -------------------
in any way of any accounts receivable, promissory notes or trade acceptances
held by any Company, with or without recourse, except for collection (including
endorsements) in the ordinary course of business and except the sale back of
accounts receivable in connection with a Permitted Acquisition.
SECTION 7.10. TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES. Except as set forth in
------------ ----------------------------
SCHEDULE 4.17, enter into any transaction, including, without limitation, the
- -------------
purchase, sale or exchange of property or assets or the rendering or accepting
of any service with or to any Affiliate of any Company, except in the ordinary
course of business and pursuant to the reasonable requirements of its business
and upon terms not less favorable to such Company than it could obtain in a
comparable arm's-length transaction with a third party other than such
Affiliate.
SECTION 7.11. AMENDMENT OF CERTAIN AGREEMENTS, ETC. Amend, modify
------------ ------------------------------------
or terminate any material agreement to which any Company is a party, or enter
into any material agreement, in each case, outside of the ordinary course of
business and if the effect thereof would be to increase materially the
obligations of any Company thereunder or to confer additional rights upon the
other parties thereto that could have a Material Adverse Effect.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, none of the Companies shall renew or enter into
any co-location agreement, line access agreement or other material agreements
specified by the Agent without obtaining the written consents of such third
parties necessary to effect the collateral assignment thereof in accordance with
SECTION 2.01.
SECTION 7.12. ERISA. (a) Fail to make contributions to pension plans
------------ -----
required by Section 412 of the Code, (b) fail to make payments required by Title
IV of ERISA as the result of the termination of a single employer pension plan
or withdrawal or partial withdrawal from a multiemployer pension plan, or (c)
fail to correct a prohibited transaction with an employee benefit plan with
respect to which it is liable for the tax imposed by Section 4975 of the Code.
40
<PAGE>
SECTION 7.13. MARGIN STOCK. Except as set forth on SCHEDULE 4.17, use
------------ ------------ -------------
or permit the use of any of the proceeds of the Loans, directly or indirectly,
for the purpose of purchasing or carrying, or for the purpose of reducing or
retiring any indebtedness which was originally incurred to purchase or carry,
any Margin Stock or for any other purpose which might constitute the
transactions contemplated hereby a "purpose credit" within the meaning of
Regulation U (12 CFR Part 221) of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve
System, or cause any Loan, the application of proceeds thereof or this Agreement
to violate Regulation G, Regulation U, Regulation T or Regulation X of the Board
of Governors of the Federal Reserve System or any other regulation of such Board
or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or any rules or regulations
promulgated under such statutes.
SECTION 7.14. NEGATIVE PLEDGES, ETC. Enter into any agreement
------------ ----------------------
(excluding this Agreement or any other Transaction Document) prohibiting (a) any
Company from amending or otherwise modifying this Agreement or any other
Transaction Document, or (b) the creation or assumption of any lien upon the
properties, revenues or assets of any Company, whether now owned or hereafter
acquired.
VIII. DEFAULTS. In each case of happening of any of the following
--------
events (each of which is herein sometimes called an "Event of Default"):
----------------
(a) any representation or warranty made by or on behalf of any Company or
any of its Affiliates in this Agreement or the Security Documents, or in any
report, certificate, financial statement or other instrument furnished in
connection with this Agreement, or the borrowing hereunder, shall prove to be
false or misleading in any material respect when made or, except for those
representations and warranties that are by their terms limited to a specific
time, reconfirmed;
(b) default in the payment or mandatory prepayment of any installment of
the principal of any Note or any payment of any installment of the principal of
any other indebtedness of the Borrower to the Agent, any Lender or any Hedging
Lender, or any payment in respect of any Rate Hedging Obligations entered into
with the Agent or any Hedging Lender, when the same shall become due and
payable, whether at the due date thereof or at a date fixed for prepayment or by
acceleration or otherwise;
(c) default in the payment of any installment of any interest on any Note,
or any premium or fee or any other indebtedness of any Company to the Agent or
any Lender for more than five (5) Business Days after the date when the same
shall become due and payable, whether at the due date thereof or at a date fixed
for prepayment or by acceleration or otherwise;
(d) default in the due observance or performance by, or compliance with,
any Person other than the Agent or any Lender of any covenant or agreement
contained in ARTICLE V, SECTION 6.02, 6.04, 6.06, 6.07, 6.08, 6.09 or 6.11 or
ARTICLE VII (except SECTION 7.10) of this Agreement;
41
<PAGE>
(e) default in the due observance or performance of, or compliance with,
any other covenant, condition or agreement, on the part of any Person other than
the Agent or any Lender to be observed or performed pursuant to the terms of
this Agreement or pursuant to the terms of any Security Document or any Rate
Hedging Obligation entered into with the Agent, any Lender or any Hedging
Lender, which default is not referred to in paragraphs (a) through (d),
inclusive, of this ARTICLE VIII and which default shall continue unremedied for
ten (10) calendar days after the earlier to occur of (i) the Borrower's actual
discovery of such default, or (ii) written notice thereof from the Agent or any
Lender to the Borrower; provided, however, that if any such default cannot be
-------- -------
remedied, then such default shall be deemed to be an Event of Default as of the
date of the occurrence thereof;
(f) any default with respect to any evidence of Indebtedness of any Company
(other than to the Lenders hereunder) for borrowed money, or default under any
agreement giving rise to monetary remedies, in each case which, when aggregated
with all other such defaults of the Companies, exceeds $500,000, if the effect
of such default is to permit the holder of such Indebtedness to accelerate the
maturity of such Indebtedness;
(g) any Company shall (i) discontinue its business, (ii) permit an event of
dissolution to occur, (iii) apply for or consent to the appointment of a
receiver, trustee, custodian or liquidator of it or any of its property, (iv)
admit in writing its inability to pay its debts as they mature, (v) make a
general assignment for the benefit of creditors, (vi) be adjudicated a bankrupt
or insolvent or be the subject of an order for relief under Title 11 of the
United States Code or (vii) file a voluntary petition in bankruptcy, or a
petition or an answer seeking reorganization or an arrangement with creditors or
to take advantage of any bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, readjustment of
debt, dissolution or liquidation law or statute, or an answer admitting the
material allegations of a petition filed against it in any proceeding under any
such law or corporate action shall be taken for the purpose of effecting any of
the foregoing;
(h) there shall be filed against any Company an involuntary petition
seeking reorganization of such company or the appointment of a receiver,
trustee, custodian or liquidator of such company or a substantial part of its
assets, or an involuntary petition under any bankruptcy, reorganization or
insolvency law of any jurisdiction, whether now or hereafter in effect and such
involuntary petition shall not have been dismissed within sixty (60) days
thereof;
(i) final judgment for the payment of money which, when aggregated with all
other outstanding judgments against the Companies, exceeds $250,000 (exclusive
of amounts covered by insurance or actually contributed in cash by third party
obligors with respect to such judgments) shall be rendered against any Company,
and the same shall remain undischarged (unless fully bonded upon terms
satisfactory to the Required Lenders) for a period of thirty (30) consecutive
days, during which execution shall not be effectively stayed;
42
<PAGE>
(j) the occurrence of any attachment of any deposits or other property of
any Company in the hands or possession of the Agent or any of the Lenders, or
the occurrence of any attachment of any other property of any Company in an
amount which, when aggregated with all other attachments against the Companies,
exceeds $250,000 and which shall not be discharged within thirty (30) days of
the date of such attachment;
(k) there shall occur for any reason a Change of Control; or
(l) for any reason (other than the gross negligence of the Agent or the
Lenders, it being nonetheless understood and agreed that the Borrower shall have
the primary responsibility for filing continuation statements under the Uniform
Commercial Code and making other conforming amendments to the Security Documents
to reflect changed circumstances and assure continued compliance therewith and
with SECTION 2.01), any material Security Document shall not be in full force
and effect in all material respects or shall not be enforceable in all material
respects in accordance with its terms, or any security interest(s) or lien(s)
granted pursuant thereto which is, or are in the aggregate, material shall fail
to be perfected, or any party thereto other than the Agent or the Lenders shall
contest the validity of any material lien(s) granted under, or shall disaffirm
its obligations under, any material Security Document;
then and upon every such Event of Default and at any time thereafter during the
continuance of such Event of Default, at the election of the Required Lenders as
provided in ARTICLE XII, the Commitments shall terminate and the Notes and any
and all other Indebtedness of the Borrower to the Lenders shall immediately
become due and payable, both as to principal and interest, without presentment,
demand, prior notice, or protest, all of which are hereby expressly waived,
anything contained herein or in the Notes or other evidence of such indebtedness
to the contrary notwithstanding (except in the case of an Event of Default under
paragraph (g) or (h) of this ARTICLE VIII which, under applicable law, would
result in the automatic acceleration of the Borrower's Indebtedness, in which
event the Commitments shall automatically terminate and such Indebtedness shall
automatically become due and payable).
IX. REMEDIES ON DEFAULT, ETC.
------------------------
(a) GENERAL REMEDIES. In case any one or more Events of Default shall
----------------
occur and be continuing, the Agent and the Lenders may proceed to protect and
enforce their rights by an action at law, suit in equity or other appropriate
proceeding, whether for the specific performance of any agreement contained in
this Agreement, any Security Document, any other Loan Document or the Notes, or
for an injunction against a violation of any of the terms hereof or thereof or
in and of the exercise of any power granted hereby or thereby or by law, all
subject to the provisions of ARTICLE XII. No right conferred upon the Agent or
the Lenders hereby or by any Security Document, other Loan Document or the Notes
shall be exclusive of any other right referred to herein or therein or now or
hereafter available at law, in equity, by statute or otherwise.
43
<PAGE>
(b) CONSENT TO RECEIVER. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing or
-------------------
limiting in any way the rights of the Lenders under the Security Documents or
otherwise under applicable law, at any time after the occurrence, and during the
continuance, of an Event of Default arising under paragraph (b) or (c) of
ARTICLE VIII, or anytime after the acceleration of the Loans, the Agent, at the
direction of the Required Lenders, shall be entitled to apply for and have a
receiver or receiver and manager appointed under state or Federal law of the
United States by a court of competent jurisdiction in any action taken by the
Agent or the Lenders to enforce their rights and remedies hereunder and under
the Security Documents in order to manage, protect, preserve, sell and otherwise
dispose of all or any portion of the Collateral and continue the operation of
the businesses of the Companies, and to collect all revenues and profits thereof
and apply the same to the payment of all expenses and other charges of such
receivership, including the compensation of the receiver, and to the payment of
the Obligations as aforesaid until a sale or other disposition of such
Collateral shall be finally made and consummated. The Borrower (for itself and,
with all due authority, each Subsidiary) hereby irrevocably consents to and
waives any right to object to or otherwise contest the appointment of a receiver
as provided above. The Borrower (for itself and with all due authority, each
Subsidiary) grants such waiver and consent knowingly after having discussed the
implications thereof with counsel, acknowledges that the uncontested right to
have a receiver appointed for the foregoing purposes is considered essential by
the Lenders in connection with the enforcement of their rights and remedies
hereunder and under the Security Documents, and the availability of such
appointment as a remedy under the foregoing circumstances was a material factor
in inducing the Lenders to make (and commit to make) the Loans to the Borrower;
and agrees to enter into any and all stipulations in any legal actions, or
agreements or other instruments in connection with the foregoing and to
cooperate fully with the Agent and the Lenders in connection with the assumption
and exercise of control by the receiver over all or any portion of the
Collateral.
X. THE AGENT.
---------
Section 10.01. APPOINTMENT, POWERS AND IMMUNITIES. Each Lender
------------- ----------------------------------
hereby irrevocably (subject to SECTION 10.08) designates and appoints Fleet
National Bank, which designation and appointment is coupled with an interest, as
the Agent of such Lender under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents, and
each such Lender irrevocably authorizes Fleet National Bank, as the Agent of
such Lender, to take such action on its behalf under the provisions of this
Agreement and the other Loan Documents and to exercise such powers and perform
such duties as are expressly delegated to the Agent by the terms of this
Agreement and the other Loan Documents, together with such other powers as are
reasonably incidental thereto. The Agent (which term as used in this sentence
and in SECTION 10.05 and such first sentence of SECTION 10.06 hereof shall
include reference to its affiliates and its own and such affiliates' officers,
directors, employees and agents) shall not: (a) have any duties or
responsibilities to be a trustee or other fiduciary for any Lender; (b) be
responsible to the Lenders for any recitals, statements, representations or
warranties contained in this Agreement, or in any certificate or other document
referred to or provided for in, or received by either of them under, this
Agreement, or for the value, validity, effectiveness, genuineness,
enforceability, perfection or sufficiency of this Agreement, any Note, any
Security Document or any other document referred to or provided for herein or
for any failure by the Borrower or any other Person to perform any of its
obligations hereunder or thereunder; (c) be required to initiate or conduct any
litigation or collection proceedings hereunder, except to the extent requested
by the Required Lenders; and
44
<PAGE>
(d) be responsible for any action taken or omitted to be taken by it hereunder
or under any other document or instrument referred to or provided for herein or
in connection herewith, except for its own gross negligence or willful
misconduct. The Agent may employ agents and attorneys-in-fact and shall not be
responsible for the negligence or misconduct of any such agents or attorneys-in-
fact it selects with reasonable care. Subject to the foregoing, to ARTICLE XII
and to the provisions of any intercreditor agreement among the Lenders in effect
from time to time, the Agent shall, on behalf of the Lenders, (a) hold and apply
any and all Collateral, and the proceeds thereof, at any time received by it, in
accordance with the provisions of the Security Documents and this Agreement; (b)
exercise any and all rights, powers and remedies of the Lenders under this
Agreement or any of the Security Documents, including, without limitation, the
giving or withholding of any consent or waiver or the entering into of any
amendment; (c) execute, deliver and file UCC Financing Statements, mortgages,
deeds of trust, lease assignments and other such agreements, and possess
instruments on behalf of any or all of the Lenders; and (d) in the event of
acceleration of the Borrower's Indebtedness hereunder, sell or otherwise
liquidate or dispose of any portion of the Collateral held by it and otherwise
exercise the rights of the Lenders hereunder and under the Security Documents.
SECTION 10.02. RELIANCE BY AGENT. The Agent shall be entitled to rely
------------- -----------------
upon any certification, notice or other communication (including any
communication by telephone, telex, telegram or cable) believed by it to be
genuine and correct and to have been signed or sent by or on behalf of the
proper Person or Persons, and upon advice and statements of legal counsel,
independent accountants and other experts selected by the Agent. As to any
matters not expressly provided for by this Agreement, the Agent shall in all
cases be fully protected in acting, or in refraining from acting, hereunder in
accordance with instructions signed by the Required Lenders or the Lenders, as
the case may be, and such instructions and any action taken or failure to act
pursuant thereto shall be binding on the Lenders.
SECTION 10.03. EVENTS OF DEFAULT. The Agent shall not be deemed to
------------- -----------------
have knowledge of the occurrence of an Event of Default (other than the non-
payment of principal of or interest on the Notes) unless such Agent has received
written notice from any Lender or the Borrower specifying such Event of Default
and stating that such notice is a "Notice of Default". In the event that the
Agent receives such a notice of the occurrence of an Event of Default, the Agent
shall give prompt notice thereof to the Lenders (and shall give each Lender
prompt notice of each such non-payment). The Agent shall (subject to SECTION
10.07) take such action with respect to such Event of Default as shall be
directed by the Required Lenders, as provided under ARTICLE XII, provided that,
unless and until the Agent shall have received such directions, the Agent may
(but shall not be obligated to) take such action on behalf of the Lenders, or
refrain from taking such action, with respect to such Event of Default as it
shall deem advisable in the best interest of the Lenders.
SECTION 10.04. RIGHTS AS A LENDER. With respect to its Commitments
------------- ------------------
and the Loans made by the Agent hereunder, the Agent shall have the same rights
and powers hereunder as any other Lenders and may exercise the same as though
its Affiliates were not acting as the Agent. The Agent and its Affiliates may,
without having to account therefor to the Lenders and without giving rise to any
fiduciary or other similar duty to any Lender, accept deposits from, lend money
45
<PAGE>
to and generally engage in any kind of banking, trust or other business with the
Borrower and any of its Affiliates as if it were not acting as an Agent and as
if Agent were not a Lender, and the Agent may accept fees and other
consideration from or on behalf any Company for services in connection with this
Agreement or otherwise without having to account for the same to the Lenders.
SECTION 10.05. INDEMNIFICATION. The Lenders agree to indemnify the
------------- ---------------
Agent (to the extent not reimbursed under SECTION L4.02, but without limiting
the obligations of the Borrower under such SECTION L4.02), ratably in accordance
with the aggregate principal amount of the Notes held by the Lenders (or, if no
such principal or interest is at the time outstanding, ratably in accordance
with their respective Commitments), for any and all liabilities, obligations,
losses, damages, penalties, action, judgments, suits, costs, expenses or
disbursements of any kind and nature whatsoever which may be imposed on,
incurred by or asserted against the Agent in any way relating to or arising out
of this Agreement or any Security Document or any other document contemplated by
or referred to herein or the transactions contemplated by or referred to herein
or therein (including, without limitation, the costs and expenses which the
Borrower is obligated to pay under SECTION 14.02) or the enforcement of any of
the terms of this Agreement or of any Security Document or of any such other
documents, provided that no Lender shall be liable for any of the foregoing to
the extent they arise from the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the
party to be indemnified.
SECTION 10.06. NON-RELIANCE ON AGENT AND OTHER LENDERS. Each
------------- ---------------------------------------
Lender agrees that it has, independently and without reliance on the Agent or
any other Lenders, and based on such documents and information as it has deemed
appropriate, made its own credit analysis of the Companies and its own decision
to enter into this Agreement and that it will, independently and without
reliance upon the Agent or any other Lenders, and based on such documents and
information as it shall deem appropriate at the time, continue to make its own
analysis and decisions in taking or not taking action under this Agreement. The
Agent shall not be required to keep itself informed as to the performance or
observance by the Companies of this Agreement or any other document referred to
or provided for herein or to inspect the properties or books of the Borrower.
Except for notices, reports and other documents and information expressly
required to be furnished to the Lenders by the Agent hereunder, the Agent shall
have no duty or responsibility to provide any Lender with any credit or other
information concerning the affairs, financial condition or businesses of the
Companies, (or any other Affiliates) of the Borrower which may come into the
possession of the Agent or any of its Affiliates. Notwithstanding the
foregoing, the Agent will provide to the Lenders any and all information
reasonably requested by them and reasonably available to the Agent promptly upon
such request.
SECTION 10.07. FAILURE TO ACT. Except for action expressly required
-------------
of the Agent hereunder, the Agent shall in all cases be fully justified in
failing or refusing to act hereunder unless it shall be indemnified to its
satisfaction by the Lenders against any and all liability and expense which may
be incurred by it by reason of taking or continuing to take any such action.
46
<PAGE>
SECTION 10.08. RESIGNATION OF AGENT. Fleet National Bank (or any
------------- --------------------
other Agent hereunder), may resign as the Agent at any time by giving fifteen
(15) days' prior written notice thereof to the Lenders and the Borrower. Any
such resignation shall take effect at the end of such fifteen (15) day period or
upon the earlier appointment of a successor Agent by the Required Lenders as
provided below. Upon any resignation of Fleet National Bank (or any other Agent
hereunder), the Required Lenders shall appoint a successor agent from among the
Lenders or, if such appointment is deemed inadvisable or impractical by the
Required Lenders, another financial institution with a combined capital and
surplus of at least $500,000,000. Upon the acceptance of any appointment as
Agent hereunder by a successor Agent, such successor Agent shall thereupon
succeed to and become vested with all the rights, powers, privileges and duties
of the retiring Agent. After the effective date of the resignation of an Agent
hereunder, the retiring Agent shall be discharged from its duties and
obligations hereunder, provided that the provisions of this ARTICLE X shall
continue in effect for its benefit in respect of any actions taken or omitted to
be taken by it while it was acting as the Agent. In the event that there shall
not be a duly appointed and acting Agent, the Borrower agrees to make each
payment due to the Agent hereunder and under the Notes, if any, directly to each
Lender entitled thereto, pursuant to written instructions provided by the
retiring Agent, and to provide copies of each certificate or other document
required to be furnished to the Agent hereunder, if any, directly to each
Lender.
SECTION 10.09. COOPERATION OF LENDERS. Each Lender shall (a) promptly
------------- ----------------------
notify the other Lenders and the Agent of any Event of Default known to such
Lender under this Agreement and not reasonably believed to have been previously
disclosed to the other Lenders; (b) provide the other Lenders and the Agent with
such information and documentation as such other Lenders or the Agent shall
reasonably request in the performance of their respective duties hereunder,
including, without limitation, all information relative to the outstanding
balance of principal, interest and other sums owed to such Lender by the
Borrower but excluding internally generated reports and analyses and other
customarily confidential materials; and (c) cooperate with the Agent with
respect to any and all collections and/or foreclosure procedures at any time
commenced against the Borrower or otherwise in respect of the Collateral by the
Agent in the name and on behalf of the Lenders.
XI. DEFINITIONS
-----------
As used herein the following terms have the following respective meanings:
ACCOUNTANTS. See SECTION 6.05.
-----------
ACQUISITION. See SECTION 7.04.
-----------
AFFILIATE(S). With respect to any Person, any other Person that would
------------
be considered to be an affiliate of any Company under Rule 144(a) of the
Rules and Regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, as in
effect on the date hereof, if such Company were issuing securities.
AFFILIATE SUBORDINATION AGREEMENTS. See SECTION 2.01.
----------------------------------
AGENT. See the PREAMBLE.
-----
47
<PAGE>
ADJUSTED OPERATING CASH FLOW. For any three month period, the
----------------------------
Operating Cash Flow for such period plus the operating cash flow of the
Telecommunications Subsidiaries. The determination of "operating cash
flow" for any Telecommunications Subsidiary (1) shall be calculated in a
manner consistent in all relevant respects with the method used to
determine Operating Cash Flow hereunder and (2) shall account for only
those items included in the definition of Operating Cash Flow hereunder
that are directly attributable to such Telecommunications Subsidiary or
assets and the operation thereof.
ANNUALIZED OPERATING CASH FLOW. For any three month period, Proforma
------------------------------
Operating Cash Flow for such period multiplied by four (4).
ANNUALIZED ADJUSTED OPERATING CASH FLOW. For any three month period,
---------------------------------------
Adjusted Operating Cash Flow for such period multiplied by four (4).
ASSIGNMENT AND ACCEPTANCE. See Article XIII.
-------------------------
AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. See SECTION 1.02.
----------------------------
AUTHORIZED OFFICER. With respect to any certificate, agreement or other
------------------
document to be executed by or on behalf of any Company, the chairman,
president, chief executive officer, chief operating officer, chief
financial officer, vice president or treasurer of such Company, who shall,
in any event, be an officer duly authorized by all required action of such
Company to execute and deliver such document.
BASE RATE. As of any date, the fluctuating interest rate per annum equal
---------
to the greater of (a) the rate established by Fleet National Bank from time
to time at its office in New York, New York as its "Base Rate" for
commercial loans in United States Dollars, and (b) the Federal Funds Rate
plus .50%; in each case, including any applicable adjustments for reserves
----
or Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation requirements. The Base Rate is
not necessarily intended to be the lowest rate of interest determined by
Fleet National Bank in connection with extensions of credit.
BASE RATE LOANS. Loans bearing interest at a rate determined on the
---------------
basis of the Base Rate.
BORROWER. See the PREAMBLE.
--------
BORROWING DATE. With respect to any Loans requested hereunder, the date
--------------
such Loans are to be made.
BUDGET. See SECTION 6.05.
------
48
<PAGE>
BUSINESS DAY. (a) For all purposes other than as provided in clause (b)
------------
below, any day other than a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday on which
banks in Boston, Massachusetts, and Chicago, Illinois, are open for the
transaction of a substantial part of their commercial banking business; and
(b) with respect to all notices and determinations in connection with, and
payments of principal and interest on, LIBOR Loans, any day that is a
Business Day described in clause (a) and that is also a day for trading by
and between banks in U.S. Dollar deposits in the London interbank market.
CAPITAL EXPENDITURES. For any period, the aggregate amount of payments
--------------------
made by the Companies during such period (including the aggregate amount of
Capital Lease Obligations incurred during such period) for the rental,
lease, purchase, construction or use of any property, the value or cost of
which would, under GAAP, appear on the Borrower's consolidated (or, if
applicable, combined) balance sheet in the category of property, plant and
equipment during such period.
CAPITAL LEASE. Any lease of property (real, personal or mixed) which, in
-------------
accordance with GAAP would be capitalized on the lessee's balance sheet or
for which the amount of the asset and liability thereunder if not so
capitalized should be disclosed in a note to such balance sheet.
Capital Lease Obligations. All obligations of the Companies' to pay rent
-------------------------
or other amounts under a lease of (or other agreement conveying the right
to use) property (real, personal or mixed) to the extent such obligations
are required to be classified and accounted for as a Capital Lease on the
Borrower's balance sheet under GAAP, and, for purposes of this Agreement,
the amount of such obligations shall be the capitalized amount thereof,
determined in accordance with GAAP.
CASUALTY EVENT. Any loss of, or damages to, or any condemnation or
--------------
other taking of any assets or property of the Companies for which any
Company receives insurance proceeds, proceeds of a condemnation award or
other compensation.
CERCLA. The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and
------
Liability Act of 1989 (42 USC 9601, et. seq.).
-- ---
CHANGE OF CONTROL. For any reason, (i) the Equity Investors shall cease to
-----------------
own of record collectively at least 35% of the issued and outstanding
Equity Securities of the Parent, (ii) the Parent shall cease to own of
record and beneficially 100% of the issued and outstanding Equity
Securities of the Borrower, (iii) the Companies shall cease to own of
record and beneficially, directly or indirectly through one or more other
Subsidiaries, all of the issued and outstanding Equity Securities of each
of the Subsidiaries or, (iv) if at any time, Christopher Torto (or, in
--
their absence, persons acceptable to the Required Lenders in its sole
discretion) shall cease to serve in the management capacities in which they
serve as of the date hereof (or on the date the Agent accepts such
successors).
49
<PAGE>
CHURN. For any period, the fraction, expressed as a percentage, (i) the
-----
numerator of which is the number of residential dial-up subscribers to the
internet access services offered by the Companies that cease to be
subscribers during such period (including any such subscribers whose
service has been discontinued for non-payment, but excluding (x) any such
subscribers discontinued in connection with a sale of assets by any of the
Companies outside of the ordinary course of business, (y) any subscribers
that resubscribe to such internet access services during such period and
(z) any subscribers obtained outside of the ordinary course of business in
a Permitted Acquisition whose service is discontinued for any reason during
such period and, as a result thereof, the Companies receive a credit,
refund or other reduction in the purchase price paid or payable with
respect to such Permitted Acquisition), and (ii) the denominator of which
is the number of residential dial-up subscribers to the internet access
services offered by the Companies as of the last day of such period.
CLOSING DATE. The date as of which all of the conditions to this Agreement
------------
have been satisfied or waived.
CLOSING LEVERAGE. See SECTION 3.01.
----------------
CODE. The Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the rules and
----
regulations promulgated thereunder.
COLLATERAL. Collectively, any and all collateral referred to herein and in
----------
the Security Documents.
COLLATERAL ACCOUNT. See SECTION 1(D) of each of the Security Agreements.
------------------
COMMITMENT and COMMITMENTS. See SECTION 1.05.
---------- -----------
COMMITMENT FEE. See SECTION 1.06.
--------------
COMMITMENT REDUCTION NOTICE. See SECTION 1.05.
---------------------------
COMPANIES. Collectively, the Parent and its Subsidiaries, Borrower and its
---------
Subsidiaries, from time to time.
COMPLIANCE REPORT. See SECTION 6.05.
-----------------
COMPLIANCE REPORT DELIVERY DATE. See SECTION 1.02.
-------------------------------
CONSOLIDATED NET INCOME. For any period, the net income of the Borrower
-----------------------
and its Subsidiaries other than any Telecommunications Subsidiary (or, with
respect to Acquisitions, the net income of the entity being acquired or
generated by the assets being acquired in such Acquisitions) from
operations for such period, after deduction of all expenses, taxes and
other proper charges for such period, determined on a consolidated basis in
accordance with GAAP, after eliminating therefrom all extraordinary
nonrecurring gains or losses, including without limitation any gains (or
losses) from any Disposition of any assets.
50
<PAGE>
CONTROLLED GROUP. All trades or businesses (whether or not
----------------
incorporated) under common control that, together with the Borrower, are
treated as a single employer under Section 414(b) or 414(c) of the Code or
Section 40001 of ERISA.
COPYRIGHT OFFICE. The United States Copyright and Trademark Office or
----------------
any other federal government agency which may hereafter perform its
functions.
DAMAGED PROPERTY. See SECTION 6.02.
----------------
DEFAULT. An Event of Default or event or condition that, but for
-------
the requirement that time elapse or notice be given, or both, would
constitute an Event of Default.
DEFAULT RATE. See SECTION 1.03(E).
------------
DISPOSITION. See SECTION 7.03.
-----------
DOLLARS AND $. Lawful money of the United States of America.
-------------
EFFECTIVE DATE. See SECTION 1.07.
--------------
ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS. Any and all Federal, state, local and foreign
------------------
laws, rules or regulations, and any judicial or administrative orders or
decrees, relating to the regulation or protection of human health, safety
or the environment or to emissions, discharges, releases or threatened
releases of pollutants, contaminants, chemicals or toxic or hazardous
substances or wastes into the indoor or outdoor environment, including,
without limitation, ambient air, soil, surface water, ground water,
wetlands, land or subsurface strata, or otherwise relating to the
manufacture, processing, distribution, use, treatment, storage, disposal,
transport or handling of pollutants, contaminants, chemicals or toxic or
hazardous substances or wastes.
ENVIRONMENTAL SITE ASSESSMENT. A "Phase One" or other appropriate site
-----------------------------
assessment performed by an environmental assessment firm of national
reputation satisfactory to the Agent and reflected in a written report
which authorizes the reliance thereon by the Agent and the Lenders.
EQUITY INVESTORS. Media/Communications Partners II Limited
----------------
Partnership, Media/Communications Investors Limited Partnership, Glenn
Friedly, Alan Baird, Michael Heinze, Christopher Torto and Michael
Williams.
EQUITY SECURITIES. Means, as to any Person that is a corporation, the
-----------------
authorized shares of such Person's capital stock, including all classes of
common, preferred, voting and nonvoting capital stock, and, as to any
Person that is not a corporation or an individual, the ownership interests
in such Person, including, without limitation, the right to share in
profits and losses, the right to receive distributions of cash and
property, and the right to receive allocations of items of income, gain,
loss, deduction and credit and similar items from such Person, whether or
not such interests include voting or similar rights entitling the holder
thereof to exercise control over such Person.
51
<PAGE>
ERISA. The Employee Retirement Security Act of 1974, as amended.
-----
EVENT OF DEFAULT. See ARTICLE VIII.
----------------
EXCESS CASH FLOW. For any period, Operating Cash Flow for such period
----------------
less (i) Total Interest Expense for such period and (ii) Capital
Expenditures made during such period.
FEDERAL FUNDS RATE. For any period, a fluctuating interest rate
------------------
per annum (based on a 365 or 366 day year, as the case may be) equal for
each day during such period to the weighted average of the rates of
interest charged on overnight federal funds transactions with member banks
of the Federal Reserve System arranged by Federal funds brokers on such
day, as published for any day which is a Business Day by the Federal
Reserve Bank of New York (or, in the absence of such publication, as
reasonably determined by the Agent).
FIXED CHARGES. For any period of four (4) consecutive fiscal quarters,
-------------
the sum of (a) Total Debt Service for such period, (b) cash income,
franchise or similar taxes paid by any corporate subsidiary of the Borrower
or any Subsidiary and (c) Tax Distributions made by the Borrower during
such period, except to the extent directly attributable to any
Telecommunications Subsidiary or assets and the operation thereof.
FLEET. Fleet National Bank, a national banking association.
-----
FUNDED DEBT. In relation to any Person at any time, all indebtedness
-----------
for borrowed money (including all notes payable and drafts accepted
representing extensions of credit and all obligations evidenced by bonds,
debentures, notes or other similar instruments on which interest charges
are customarily paid) of such Person, all guaranty or other contingent
obligations of such Person in respect of any such Indebtedness of any other
Person, the liquidation value of all preferred stock at such time (other
than any preferred stock that is not redeemable at the option of the
holder), all obligations of such Person under Capital Leases and for the
deferred purchase price of property or services (except, in any event,
trade payables arising in the ordinary course of business and obligations
under leases that do not constitute Capital Leases).
GAAP. Generally accepted accounting principles set forth in the
----
opinions and pronouncements of the Accounting Principles Board of the
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and statements and
pronouncements of the Financial Accounting Standards Board or such other
entity as may be approved by a significant segment of the accounting
profession, as in effect on June 30, 1998, applied on a basis consistent
with (a) the application of the same in prior fiscal periods, except as
otherwise required, and (b) that employed by the Accountants in preparing
the financial statements referred to in SECTION 6.05(A).
52
<PAGE>
GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY. Any nation or government, any state or other
----------------------
political subdivision thereof and any entity exercising any executive,
legislative, judicial, regulatory or administrative functions of, or
pertaining to, government.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. Any petroleum or petroleum products, flammable
-------------------
materials, explosives, radioactive materials, asbestos, urea formaldehyde
foam insulation, and transformers or other equipment that contain
polychlorinated biphenyls, "hazardous substances", "hazardous wastes",
"hazardous materials", "extremely hazardous wastes", "restricted hazardous
wastes", "toxic substances", "toxic pollutants", "contaminants",
"pollutants" or words of similar import under any Environmental Law and any
other chemical or other material or substance, the generation, storage,
transportation, use, disposal, release or location of which is now or
hereafter prohibited, limited or regulated under any Environmental Law.
HEDGING LENDER. Any Lender, or any Affiliate of any Lender, which from
--------------
time to time enters into a Rate Hedging Agreement with the Borrower.
INDEBTEDNESS OR INDEBTEDNESS. As applied to any Person, (a) all
----------------------------
items (except items of capital stock, capital or paid-in surplus or of
retained earnings) which, in accordance with GAAP, would be included in
determining total liabilities as shown on the liability side of a balance
sheet of such Person as at the date as of which Indebtedness is to be
determined, including Capital Lease Obligations, but excluding all deferred
---------
subscription liabilities and Indebtedness with respect to trade obligations
and other normal accruals in the ordinary course of business which are not
more than ninety (90) days in arrears measured from the date of billing,
(b) all indebtedness secured by any mortgage, pledge, lien or conditional
sale or other title retention agreement to which any property or asset
owned or held by such Person is subject, whether or not the indebtedness
secured thereby shall have been assumed; and (c) all indebtedness of others
which such Person has directly or indirectly guaranteed, endorsed
(otherwise than for collection or deposit in the ordinary course of
business), discounted or sold with recourse or agreed (contingently or
otherwise) to purchase or repurchase or otherwise acquire, or in respect of
which such Person has agreed to supply or advance funds (whether by way of
loan, stock or equity purchase, capital contribution, makewell or
otherwise) or otherwise to become directly or indirectly liable.
INSURANCE PROCEEDS. With respect to any Casualty Event, any proceeds of
------------------
insurance, condemnation award or other compensation in respect thereof, net
of reasonable fees and expenses related thereto.
53
<PAGE>
INTEREST EXPENSE. For any period, the aggregate amount (determined on a
----------------
consolidated basis, after eliminating intercompany items, in accordance
with GAAP) of interest, commitment fees and letter of credit fees accrued
(whether or not paid) during such period (including, without limitation,
the interest component of Capital Lease Obligations and the Commitment Fee,
but excluding non-recurring fees payable under the Fee Letters and interest
in respect of overdue trade payables) by the Companies in respect of all
Indebtedness for borrowed money, plus the net amount payable (or minus the
net amount receivable) under Rate Hedging Agreements during such period
(whether or not actually paid or received during such period).
INTEREST PERIOD. With respect to each LIBOR Loan, the period commencing on
---------------
the date such Loan is made or converted from a Base Rate Loan, or the last
day of the immediately preceding Interest Period, as to LIBOR Loans being
continued as such, and ending one (1), three (3) or six (6) months, or, to
the extent available, in the sole discretion of the Agent, nine (9) or
twelve (12) months thereafter, as the Borrower may elect in the applicable
Loan Request or Interest Rate Option Notice, provided that:
(i) any Interest Period (other than an Interest Period determined
pursuant to clause (iv) below) that would otherwise end on a day that is
not a Business Day shall be extended to the next succeeding Business Day
unless such Business Day falls in the next calendar month, in which case
such Interest Period shall end on the immediately preceding Business Day;
(ii) if the Borrower shall fail to give notice as provided in
SECTION 1.03, the Borrower shall be deemed to have requested a conversion
of the affected LIBOR Loan to a Base Rate Loan on the last day of the
then current Interest Period with respect thereto;
(iii) any Interest Period relating to a LIBOR Loan that begins on
the last Business Day of a calendar month (or on a day for which there is
no numerically corresponding day in the calendar month at the end of such
Interest Period) shall, subject to clause (iv) below, end on the last
Business Day of a calendar month;
(iv) any Interest Period related to a LIBOR Loan that would
otherwise end after the final maturity date of the Loans shall end on
such final maturity date;
(v) no Interest Period shall include a principal repayment date
for the Loans unless an aggregate principal amount of Loans at least
equal to the principal amount due on such principal repayment date shall
be Base Rate Loans or LIBOR Loans having Interest Periods ending on or
before such date; and
(vi) notwithstanding clauses (iv) and (v) above, no Interest
Period shall have a duration of less than one (1) month.
54
<PAGE>
INTEREST RATE OPTION NOTICE. A notice given by the Borrower to the Agent
---------------------------
of the Borrower's election to convert Loans to a different type or continue
Loans as the same type, in accordance with SECTION 1.04.
LENDERS. See the PREAMBLE.
-------
LIBOR BASE RATE. With respect to each day during each Interest Period
---------------
pertaining to any LIBOR Loan, the rate per annum determined by the Agent
to be the arithmetic mean (rounded to the nearest l/100th of 1%) of the
offered rates for deposits in Dollars with a term comparable to such
Interest Period that appears on the Telerate British Bankers Assoc.
Interest Settlement Rates Page (as defined below) at approximately 11:00
A.M., London time, on the second full Business Day preceding the first day
of such Interest Period; provided, however, that if there shall at any time
-------- -------
no longer exist a Telerate British Bankers Assoc. Interest Settlement Rates
Page, the term "LIBOR Base Rate" shall mean, with respect to each day
during each Interest Period pertaining to any LIBOR Loan, the rate per
annum equal to the rate at which the Agent is offered Dollar deposits at or
about 10:00 A.M., Boston time, two Business Days prior to the beginning of
such Interest Period in the London interbank deposit market where the
eurodollar and foreign currency and exchange operations in respect of its
LIBOR Loans are then being conducted for delivery on the first day of such
Interest Period for the number of days comprised therein and in an amount
comparable to the amount of its LIBOR Loan to be outstanding during such
Interest Period. As used herein, the "Telerate British Bankers Assoc.
-------------------------------
Interest Settlement Rates Page" means the display designated as Page 3750
------------------------------
on the Telerate System Incorporated Service (or such other page as may
replace such page on such service for the purpose of displaying the rates
at which Dollar deposits are offered by leading banks in the London
interbank deposit market).
LIBOR LOANS. Loans bearing interest at a rate determined on the basis of
-----------
the LIBOR Rate.
LIBOR RATE. With respect to each day during each Interest Period
pertaining to a LIBOR Loan, a rate per annum determined for such day in
accordance with the following formula (rounded upward, if necessary, to the
nearest 1/16th of 1%):
LIBOR Base Rate
---------------
1.00 - LIBOR Reserve Requirements
LIBOR RESERVE REQUIREMENTS. For any day as applied to a LIBOR Loan, the
--------------------------
aggregate (without duplication) of the rates (expressed as a decimal
fraction) of reserve requirements in effect on such day (including without
limitation basic, supplemental, marginal and emergency reserves) under any
regulations of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (or
other Governmental Authority having jurisdiction with respect thereto)
prescribed for eurocurrency funding (currently referred to as "Eurocurrency
Liabilities" in Regulation D of such Board) maintained by a member bank of
the Federal Reserve System; provided, however, that LIBOR Reserve
Requirements shall be calculated without giving effect to any increase of
the rate of reserve applicable to any Lender which is specifically imposed
on such Lender under a memorandum of understanding with a Federal Reserve
Bank.
55
<PAGE>
LIENS. See SECTION 4.09.
-----
LIEN SEARCHES. See SECTION 3.01.
-------------
LOAN DOCUMENTS. This Agreement, the Notes, the Security Documents and all
--------------
other agreements, instruments and certificates contemplated hereby and
thereby, including without limitation any Rate Hedging Agreements entered
into with any of the Lenders or any Hedging Lenders.
LOAN REQUEST. See SECTION 1.03.
------------
LOANS. See SECTION 1.01.
-----
MARGIN STOCK. See SECTION 4.12.
------------
MATERIAL ADVERSE EFFECT. (a) An adverse effect on the validity or
-----------------------
enforceability of this Agreement or any of the other Loan Documents in any
material respect, (b) an adverse effect on the condition (financial or
other), business, results of operations, prospects or properties of the
Companies, taken as a whole, in any material respect, other than any event
or circumstances that are generally applicable to the Internet service
provider industry or to general economic conditions, or (c) an impairment
of the ability of the Companies to fulfill their respective obligations
under this Agreement, the Notes or any other Loan Document to which it is a
party in any material respect.
MATURITY DATE. June 30, 2005.
-------------
MORTGAGES. Collectively, one or more mortgages, deeds of trust, deeds to
---------
secure debt or collateral assignments of leasehold interest, in form and
substance satisfactory to the Agent, to effect a Lien on real property or
leasehold interests in the state where the respective real property to be
covered by such instrument is located, executed by the party that is the
owner or lessee of such real property in favor of the Agent (or, in the
case of a deed of trust, in favor of a trustee for the benefit of the Agent
and the Lender), covering the respective fee or leasehold interest owned by
the such party, as said mortgages, deeds of trust, deeds to secure debt,
leasehold deeds of trust and collateral assignments of leasehold interests
shall be modified and supplemented and in effect from time to time.
NET SALE PROCEEDS. With respect to any Disposition, the aggregate
-----------------
amount of all cash payments received by any Company, directly or
indirectly, in connection with such Disposition, whether at the time
thereof or after such Disposition under deferred payment arrangements or
investments entered into or received in connection with such Disposition,
minus the aggregate amount of any reasonable and customary legal,
accounting, regulatory, title and recording tax expenses, transfer taxes,
commissions and other fees and expenses paid at any time by any Company in
connection with such disposition, and minus any cash income taxes payable
by any Company in connection with such Disposition.
56
<PAGE>
NOTES. See SECTION 1.01.
-----
OBLIGATIONS. The Loans and the other obligations of each of the Companies
-----------
under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents, including without
limitation any and all future loans, advances, debts, liabilities,
obligations, covenants and duties owing by any of the Companies to the
Agent, the Lenders and the Hedging Lenders, or any of them, of any kind or
nature, whether or not evidenced by any note, mortgage or other instrument,
whether arising by reason of an extension of credit, loan, guarantee,
indemnification or in any other manner, whether direct or indirect
(including those acquired by assignment), absolute or contingent, due or to
become due, now existing or hereafter arising and however acquired. The
term "Obligations" also includes, without limitation, all interest,
charges, expenses, fees (including attorneys', accountants', appraisers',
consultants' and other fees) and any other sums chargeable to the Companies
under this Agreement or any other Loan Documents.
OFFERING. The transactions in which the Parent offers and sells to the
--------
public shares of its common stock substantially as described in the
Registration Statement (including, but not limited to the underwriters'
over-allotment option).
OPENING BALANCE SHEET. See SECTION 4.01.
---------------------
OPERATING CASH FLOW. For any fiscal period, Consolidated Net Income for
-------------------
such period, plus, to the extent deducted in the determination of
----
Consolidated Net Income for such period; (a) Total Interest Expense, (b)
depreciation, (c) authorization, (d) taxes in respect of income and profits
expensed during such period and determined on a consolidated basis, (d)
other non-cash expenses, minus (e) extraordinary gains, in each case, for
-----
such period and determined on a consolidated basis, after eliminating
intercompany items, in accordance with GAAP.
ORIGINAL AGREEMENT. See the RECITALS.
------------------
PARENT. See the PREAMBLE.
------
PARTICIPANT. See SECTION 1.12.
-----------
57
<PAGE>
PERMITTED ACQUISITIONS.
----------------------
(a) Any Acquisition by the Borrower that does not result in a
Change of Control, whether such Acquisition is effected by way of the
purchase of assets or Equity Securities, by merger or consolidation of
one or more Subsidiaries or otherwise, of substantially all of the
assets of or Equity Securities issued by Internet service providers or
related businesses located in Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, Indiana,
Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Kentucky, Pennsylvania and West
Virginia the purchase price of which does not exceed $15,000,000 (or
to the extent that the purchase price exceeds $15,000,000, such
Acquisition is funded from proceeds of the Offering), in the case of
each such Acquisition, subject to the satisfaction of the terms and
conditions set forth in (i) through (xi) below and subject to the
Agent's receipt of a completed Officer's Compliance Certificate
"Permitted Acquisitions" in substantially the form of SCHEDULE 11
-----------
hereto duly executed by the Borrower's Chief Executive Officer or
Chief Financial Officer:
(i) If such Acquisition involves the purchase of equity
interests, the same shall be effected in such a manner as to assure
that the acquired entity becomes a wholly owned Subsidiary of the
Borrower;
(ii) No later than (1) five (5) days prior to the
consummation of any such Acquisition or, if earlier, ten (10) business
days after the execution and delivery of the related acquisition
agreement, the Borrower shall have delivered to the Agent (in
sufficient copies for all Lenders) a copy of executed counterparts of
such acquisition agreement, together with all schedules thereto, and
all applicable financial information, including new Projections,
updated to reflect such Acquisition and any related transactions, (2)
promptly following a request therefor, copies of such other
information or documents relating to such Acquisition as the Agent or
any Lender shall have reasonably requested, and (3) promptly following
the consummation of such Acquisition, copies of the material
agreements, instruments and documents executed and delivered at the
closing under such acquisition agreement;
(iii) Neither the Borrower nor any Subsidiary shall, in
connection with any such Acquisition, assume or remain liable with
respect to any indebtedness (including any material tax or ERISA
liability) of the related seller, except (i) to the extent permitted
under this Agreement and (ii) obligations of the seller incurred in
the ordinary course of business and necessary or desirable to the
continued operation of the underlying properties;
(iv) All assets and properties acquired in connection with
any such Acquisition shall be free and clear of any Liens other than
Permitted Liens;
(v) The applicable Sellers shall have consented to the
collateral assignment to the Agent of the Borrower's rights under the
Acquisition Agreement and any other agreements executed thereunder, as
required under SECTION 2.01.
58
<PAGE>
(vi) The applicable third parties shall have consented to
the collateral assignment to the Agent of the Borrower's rights under
the leases, co-location agreements, line access agreements and other
material agreements specified by the Agent as is necessary to effect
the collateral assignment thereof in accordance with SECTION 2.01,
provided, however, (A) if such Acquisition is effected by way of the
-----------------
purchase of assets of or Equity Securities issued by an Internet
service provider with less than 10,000 subscribers, such consents
shall be obtained no later than ninety (90) days after the closing of
such Acquisition; or (B) if such Acquisition is effected by way of the
purchase of assets or Equity Securities issued by an Internet service
provider with more than 10,000 subscribers, (x) all Material Consents
(as defined below) shall be obtained no later than 30 days after the
closing of such Acquisition and (y) all third party consents (other
than Material Consents) shall be obtained no later than 60 days after
the closing of such Acquisition.
For purposes hereof "Material Consents" shall mean (A) third
-----------------
party consents to (x) leases (except for leases covering POPs) and (y)
agreements that provide internet backbone connections and (B) any
other third-party consent deemed to be material in the sole discretion
of the Agent.
(vii) Immediately prior to any such Acquisition and after
giving effect thereto, no Default shall have occurred or be
continuing;
(viii) The Agent shall have received copies of the legal
opinions delivered by Seller(s) pursuant to such Acquisition Agreement
in connection with such Acquisition, and a letter from each Person
delivering an opinion (or authorization within in the opinion)
authorizing reliance thereon by the Agent and the Lenders;
(ix) Without limiting the generality of the foregoing,
after giving effect to such Acquisition (including any Loan therefor)
the Borrower shall be in compliance with the provisions of SECTION 5,
(i) calculated on a pro forma basis as of the end of and for the
--- -----
fiscal period most recently ended prior to the date of such
Acquisition, and (ii) under the Borrower's updated Projections
referred to above. The Borrower shall provide to the Agent a
certificate signed on behalf of the Borrower by its chief financial
officer demonstrating such compliance in reasonable detail;
(x) The Borrower shall have executed and/or delivered to
the Agent (or shall have caused to be executed and delivered to the
Agent by the appropriate Person), the following:
59
<PAGE>
(A) With respect to the assets to be acquired pursuant to
such Acquisition, and the applicable Seller(s), all Uniform Commercial
Code financing statements, termination statements and all security and
pledge agreements, securities pledge agreements, mortgages, deeds of
trusts and related title insurance policies and all other Security
Documents necessary and required by the Agent or its counsel in
connection with the Borrower's compliance with SECTION 2.01;
(B) certified copies of the resolutions of the Borrower
authorizing such Acquisition;
(C) Uniform Commercial Code, tax lien and judgment searches
with respect to the assets to be acquired pursuant to such Acquisition
and the applicable Seller(s) (and their predecessors as owners of such
assets);
(D) updated certificates of insurance evidencing the
additional insurance coverage and policy provisions required in this
Agreement; or
(E) such other supporting documents and certificates as the
Agent or Lenders may request; and
(xi) In connection with an Acquisition involving the purchase or
formation of a new Subsidiary and/or the execution of additional
Security Documents or any other Loan Document, the Agent shall have
received the favorable written opinions, addressed to the Agent and
the Lenders, of the Companies' general counsel and local counsel in
the jurisdictions where the assets subject to such Acquisition are
located (in the case of local counsel opinions, relating to matters
concerning the perfection of security interests in real property owned
or leased by the Borrower or any Subsidiary (and, in the case of
leased real property, with respect to which the Agent requests a
collateral assignment or leasehold mortgage in accordance with SECTION
2.01(A)(IV)), such opinions to be in form and substance satisfactory
to the Agent.
(c) Any other Acquisition approved by the Required Lenders in their
sole and absolute discretion prior to the Borrower making a binding
commitment with respect thereto.
PERMITTED INVESTMENTS. (a) Investments in property to be used by any
---------------------
Company in the ordinary course of business; (b) current assets arising from
the sale of goods and services in the ordinary course of business; (c)
investments (of one year or less) in direct or guaranteed obligations of
the United States, or any agency thereof; (d) investments (of 90 days or
less) in certificates of deposit of the Lenders or any other domestic
commercial bank of recognized standing having capital, surplus and
undivided profits in excess of $100,000,000, membership in the Federal
Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC") and senior debt rated carrying one
----
of the two highest ratings of Standard & Poor's Ratings Service, A Division
of McGraw Hill, Inc., or Moody's Investors Service, Inc. (an
60
<PAGE>
"Approved Institution"); (e) investments (of 90 days or less) in commercial
--------------------
paper given one of the two highest ratings by Standard and Poor's Ratings
Service, A Division of McGraw Hill, Inc., or by Moody's Investors Service,
Inc.; (f) investments redeemable at any time without penalty in money
market instruments placed through the Lenders or Approved Institutions; (g)
repurchase agreements fully collateralized by United States government
securities; (h) deposits fully insured by the FDIC; (i) investments made
prior to and after the date hereof in Subsidiaries, including the formation
and capitalization of new Subsidiaries in connection with and as permitted
under SECTION 7.04; (j) any Permitted Telecommunications Investment; (k)
intercompany loans and advances and otherwise permitted under SECTION 7.01
and (l) short-term relocation and other personal loans to employees and
advances to employees in the ordinary course of business for the payment of
bona fide, properly documented, business expenses to be incurred on behalf
---- ----
of the Companies, provided that the aggregate outstanding amount of all
--------
such loans and advances shall not exceed $50,000 in the aggregate at any
time.
PERMITTED LIENS. See SECTION 7.02.
---------------
PERMITTED TELECOMMUNICATIONS INVESTMENT. Any Acquisition by one or more
---------------------------------------
Telecommunications Subsidiary of the assets or equity of other
telecommunications businesses in accordance with the conditions set forth
in paragraphs (a)(i) through (xi) of the definition of "Permitted
Acquisitions" not to exceed the aggregate amount of $10,000,000 reduced by,
without duplication, (x) the aggregate amount of Capital Expenditures
directly attributable to the Telecommunications Subsidiaries or assets and
the operation thereof and (y) the aggregate losses directly attributable to
the Telecommunications Subsidiaries or assets and the operation thereof.
PERSON OR PERSON. Any individual, corporation, partnership, joint venture,
----------------
trust, business unit, unincorporated organization, or other organization,
whether or not a legal entity, or any government or any agency or political
subdivision thereof.
PLAN. The Voyager.net, Inc. Amended and Restated 1998 Stock Option and
----
Incentive Plan.
PRICING PERIOD. See SECTION 1.02.
--------------
PRICING RATIO. See SECTION 1.02.
-------------
PROFORMA OPERATING CASH FLOW. For any three-month period, Operating Cash
----------------------------
Flow for such period plus pro forma Operating Cash Flow of any Subsidiaries
--- -----
acquired, or generated by any assets acquired, during such period in
Permitted Acquisitions, assuming such Permitted Acquisitions occurred on
the first day of such period. The determination of "Operating Cash Flow"
of any Subsidiary or assets acquired pursuant to a Permitted Acquisition,
(1) shall be calculated in a manner consistent in all relevant respects
with the method used to determine Operating Cash Flow hereunder and (2)
shall account for only those items included in the definition of Operating
Cash Flow hereunder that are directly attributable to such Subsidiary or
assets and the operation thereof.
61
<PAGE>
PROJECTIONS. See SECTION 4.15.
-----------
PROPERTIES. See SECTION 4.18.
----------
QUARTERLY DATES. See SECTION 1.01.
---------------
RATE HEDGING AGREEMENTS. Any written agreements evidencing Rate Hedging
-----------------------
Obligations, including without limitation the LIBOR provisions of this
Agreement.
RATE HEDGING OBLIGATIONS. Any and all obligations of the Borrower, whether
------------------------
direct or indirect and whether absolute or contingent, at any time created,
arising, evidenced or acquired (including all renewals, extensions,
modifications and amendments thereof and all substitutions therefor), in
respect of: (a) any and all agreements, arrangements, devices and
instruments designed or intended to protect at least one of the parties
thereto from the fluctuations of interest rates, exchange rates or forward
rates applicable to such party's assets, liabilities or exchange
transactions, including without limitation dollar-denominated or cross
currency interest rate exchange agreements, forward currency exchange
agreements, interest rate cap or collar protection agreements, forward rate
currency or interest rate options, puts and warrants and so-called "rate
swap" agreements; and (b) any and all cancellations, buy-backs, reversals,
terminations or assignments of any of the foregoing.
RECOVERY. See SECTION 1.13.
--------
RECOVERING PARTY. See SECTION 1.13.
----------------
REGISTRATION STATEMENT. The Parent's registration statement (No. 333-
----------------------
77917) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, relating to the
Offering.
REGULATION D. Regulation D of the Board of Governors of the Federal
------------
Reserve System, as the same may be amended or supplemented from time to
time.
REGULATORY CHANGE. With respect to any Lender, any change after the
-----------------
Closing Date in any law, rule or regulation (including without limitation
Regulation D) of the United States, any state or any other nation or
political subdivision thereof, including without limitation the issuance of
any final regulations or guidelines, or the adoption or making after the
Closing Date (or, if later, the date as of which such Person became a
Lender) of any interpretation, directive or request, applying to a class of
banks in which such Lender is included under any such law, rule or
regulation (whether or not having the force of law and whether or not
failure to comply therewith would be unlawful) by any court or governmental
or monetary authority charged with the interpretation thereof.
62
<PAGE>
RELATED LENDER PARTY. With respect to any Lender, such Lender's parent
--------------------
company and/or any affiliate of such Lender which is at least fifty percent
(50%) owned by such Lender or its parent company or, in the case of any
Lender which is a fund investing in bank loans, any other fund that invests
in bank loans and is managed by the same investment advisor of such Lender
or by a controlled affiliate of such investment advisor.
REMEDIAL WORK. All activities required under any Environmental Law,
-------------
including, without limitation, cleanup design and implementation, removal
activities, investigation, field and laboratory testing and analysis,
monitoring and other remedial and response actions, taken or to be taken,
arising out of or in connection with Hazardous Materials, including without
limitation all activities included within the meaning of the terms
"removal," "remedial action" or "response," as defined in 42 U.S.C. Section
9601(23), (24) and (25).
REQUIRED LENDERS. (a) Lenders holding at least 60% of the aggregate
----------------
amount of the unused Commitments; and thereafter, (b) Lenders holding at
least 60% of the sum of (i) the aggregate outstanding principal amount of
the Loans and (ii) the aggregate amount of the unused Commitments.
REQUIRED PAYMENT. See SECTION 1.14.
----------------
RESTORATION PERIOD. See SECTION 1.05(B).
------------------
RESTRICTED PAYMENT. Any distribution or payment of cash or property, or
------------------
both, directly or indirectly (a) to any Affiliate of any Company or (b) any
equityholder of any Company or any of their Affiliates, in each case for
any reason whatsoever, including without limitation, salaries, loans, debt
repayment, consulting fees, management fees, operating fees, expense
reimbursements and dividends, distributions, put, call or redemption
payments and any other payments in respect of equity interests; provided,
--------
however, that Restricted Payments shall not include any of the following:
------- -----------------
(i) reasonable Transaction Costs, and
(ii) transactions in the ordinary course of the business of the
Companies, provided they comply with the provisions of SECTION 7.10.
SECURITY AGREEMENTS. The Security and Pledge Agreements dated as of
-------------------
the Closing Date or thereafter between (a) the Borrower and the Agent and
(b) each other Company and the Agent, as amended from time to time in
accordance with their respective terms.
SECURITY DOCUMENT(S). See SECTION 2.01.
--------------------
63
<PAGE>
SOLVENT and SOLVENCY. With respect to any Person on a particular date, the
------- --------
condition that on such date, (a) the fair value of the property of such
Person is greater than the total amount of liabilities, including, without
limitation, contingent liabilities, of such Person, (b) the present fair
salable value of the assets of such Person is not less than the amount that
will be required to pay the probable liability of such Person of its debts
as they become absolute and matured, (c) such Person does not intend to,
and does not believe that it will, incur debts or liabilities beyond such
Person's ability to pay as such debts and liabilities mature, and (d) such
Person is not engaged in business or a transaction, and is not about to
engage in business or a transaction, for which such Person's property would
constitute an unreasonably small amount of capital.
SUBORDINATED DEBT. The Indebtedness evidenced by the (i) Borrower's
-----------------
Amended and Restated Subordinated Promissory Note dated September 23, 1998
in the principal amount of $2,101,197 made payable to the order of Horizon
Cablevision I Limited Partnership and (ii) Horizon Telecommunications
Inc.'s Amended and Restated Promissory Note dated September 23, 1998 in the
principal amount of $100,000 made payable to the order of Horizon
Cablevision I Limited Partnership.
SUBSIDIARY. (a) Any corporation, association, joint stock company,
----------
business trust or other similar organization of which more than 50% of the
ordinary voting power for the election of a majority of the members of the
board of directors or other governing body of such entity is held or
controlled by the Borrower; (b) any other such organization the management
of which is directly or indirectly controlled by a Borrower or a Subsidiary
of the Borrower through the exercise of voting power or otherwise; or (c)
any joint venture, association, partnership or other entity in which the
Borrower has a 50% equity interest.
TELECOMMUNICATIONS SUBSIDIARY. A wholly owned Subsidiary formed for the
-----------------------------
sole purpose of making a Permitted Telecommunications Investment.
TAXES. See SECTION 1.09.
-----
THIRD PARTIES. See SECTION 14.02.
-------------
TOTAL DEBT SERVICE. For any period, the aggregate amount (determined on a
------------------
combined or consolidated basis, as appropriate after eliminating
intercompany items, in accordance with GAAP) of principal and premium, if
any, and cash interest required to be paid during such period in respect of
Total Funded Debt. For purposes of this definition, the aggregate amount
of all principal required to be paid in respect of the Loans shall be
limited to Scheduled Principal Payments.
TOTAL FUNDED DEBT. As of any date, Funded Debt of the Companies
-----------------
(excluding the Subordinated Debt) as of such date, determined on a
consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP.
TOTAL INTEREST EXPENSE. For any period, Interest Expense for such period
----------------------
which is payable, or currently paid, in cash.
TOTAL INTEREST COVERAGE RATIO. See SECTION 5.03.
-----------------------------
64
<PAGE>
TRANSACTION COSTS. For any period, nonrecurring out-of-pocket expenses
-----------------
(including attorneys' fees, investment banking fees, broker's fees and
facility fees) accrued by any Company and owing to Persons who are not
Affiliates of the Borrower during such period in connection with the
closing of the transactions under this Agreement, and any other
transactions occurring after the Closing Date which are consented to by the
Required Lenders.
YEAR 2000 COMPLIANT. When used with regard to any Company or any of the
-------------------
Companies' suppliers, vendors and customers, all software, embedded
microchips, and other processing capabilities utilized by, and material to
the business operations or financial condition of, such entity are able to
interpret and manipulate data on and involving all calendar dates
correctly, including in relation to dates on or after January 1, 2000, and
without causing a Material Adverse Effect.
YEAR 2000 RISK. The risk that the computer applications used by any
--------------
Company and its suppliers, vendors and customers may be unable to recognize
and perform without error date-sensitive functions involving certain dates
prior to any date after December 31, 1999.
XII. ENTIRE AGREEMENT; AMENDMENTS AND WAIVERS; ACTIONS BY THE LENDERS.
----------------------------------------------------------------
(a) This Agreement (including the Schedules hereto) and the other Loan
Documents constitute the entire agreement of the parties herein and supersede
any and all prior agreements, written or oral, as to the matters contained
herein, and no modification or waiver of any provision hereof or of the Notes or
any other Loan Document, nor consent to the departure by the Borrower or any
other Person therefrom, shall be effective unless the same is in writing, and
then such waiver or consent shall be effective only in the specific instance,
and for the purpose, for which given. Except as hereafter provided, the consent
of the Required Lenders shall be required and sufficient (i) to amend, with the
consent of the Borrower, any term of this Agreement, the Notes or any other Loan
Document or to waive the observance of any such term (either generally or in a
particular instance or either retroactively or prospectively); (ii) to take or
refrain from taking any action under this Agreement, the Notes, any other Loan
Document or applicable law, including, without limitation, (A) the acceleration
of the payment of the Notes, (B) the termination of the Commitments, (C) the
exercise of the Agent's and the Lenders' remedies hereunder and under the
Security Documents and (D) the giving of any approvals, consents, directions or
instructions required under this Agreement or the Security Documents; provided
--------
that no such amendment, waiver or consent shall, without the prior written
consent of all of the Lenders or the holders of all of the Notes at the time
outstanding,
(1) extend the fixed maturity or reduce the principal amount of, or reduce
the amount or extend the time of payment of any principal of, or interest or
fees on, any Note (including the Applicable Margin but excluding mandatory
unscheduled prepayments of the Notes under SECTIONS 1.05(b)),
65
<PAGE>
(2) increase or extend any Commitment of any Lender or extend the Maturity
Date (it being understood that waivers or modifications of conditions
precedent, covenants, Defaults or Events of Default shall not constitute any
such increase or extension),
(3) release any guaranties or all or substantially all of the Collateral,
unless (x) such release of Collateral is in connection with a Disposition
permitted under SECTION 7.03 or to which any required consent of the
Required Lenders has been given and (y) substantially all of the Net Sale
Proceeds of such sale are used to repay the Borrower's indebtedness to the
Lenders hereunder or otherwise used in a manner permitted hereunder it being
understood that no amendment or modification to the financial definitions in
this Agreement and no waiver or modification of any condition precedent,
covenant or Default shall constitute a reduction of interest or fees for
purposes of this clause (1),
(4) change the percentage referred to in the definition of "Required
Lenders" contained in ARTICLE XI or materially alter the provisions of
SECTION 1.13,
(5) change any other provisions requiring the consent of all of the Lenders
or the Required Lenders
(6) amend the provisions of this ARTICLE XII
(7) consent to the assignment or transfer by the Borrower or any of its
rights and obligations under this Agreement, provided, further that no such
amendment, waiver, consent or other action shall, without the consent of the
Agent, amend, modify or waive any provision of ARTICLE X as the same applies
to the Agent or any other provision of any Loan Documents as same relates to
the rights or obligations of the Agent; or
(8) amend the provisions of or waive an Event of Default under paragraph (l)
of Article VIII;
and provided, further, that neither notice to, nor the consent of the Borrower
-------- -------
shall be required for any modification, amendment or waiver of the provisions of
this ARTICLE XII governing the number of Lenders required to consent to any act
or omission under the Loan Documents or of the definition of "Required Lenders".
(b) Any amendment or waiver effected in accordance with this ARTICLE XII
shall be binding upon each holder of any Note at the time outstanding, each
future holder of any Note and the Borrower. The Lenders' failure to insist
(directly or through the Agent) upon the strict performance of any term,
condition or other provision of this Agreement, any Note, or any of the Security
Documents, or to exercise any right or remedy hereunder or thereunder, shall not
constitute a waiver by the Lenders of any such term, condition or other
provision or default or
66
<PAGE>
Event of Default in connection therewith, nor shall a single or partial exercise
of any such right or remedy preclude any other or future exercise, or the
exercise of any other right or remedy; and any waiver of any such term condition
or other provision or of any such default or Event of Default shall not affect
or alter this Agreement, any Note or any of the Security Documents, and each and
every term, condition and other provision of this Agreement, the Notes and the
Security Documents shall, in such event, continue in full force and effect and
shall be operative with respect to any other then existing or subsequent default
or Event of Default in connection therewith. An Event of Default hereunder and a
default under any Note or under any of the Security Documents shall be deemed to
be continuing unless and until waived in writing by the Required Lenders or all
of the Lenders, as provided in paragraph (a) above.
XIII. BENEFIT OF AGREEMENT; ASSIGNMENTS AND PARTICIPATIONS
----------------------------------------------------
(a) This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the
Borrower, the Lenders and the Agent and their respective successors and assigns,
and all subsequent holders of any of the Notes or any portion hereof.
(b) Each Lender may assign its rights and interests under this Agreement,
the Notes and the Security Documents and/or delegate its obligations hereunder
and thereunder, in whole or in part, and sell participations in the Notes and
the Security Documents as security therefor, provided as follows:
--------
(i) Any such assignment (other than of all of a Lender's Notes and
Commitments) made other than to another Lender or a Related Lender Party
shall reflect an assignment of such assigning Lender's Notes and
Commitments which is in an aggregate principal amount of at least
$5,000,000, and if greater, shall be an integral multiple of $1,000,000.
(ii) Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the
contrary, each Lender may at any time assign all or any portion of its
rights under this Agreement and each of the other Loan Documents,
including, without limitation, the Notes held by such Lender, to a
Federal Reserve Bank (or equivalent thereof in the case of Lenders
chartered outside of the United States); provided that no such assignment
shall release a Lender from any of its obligations and liabilities under
the Loan Documents. Any Federal Reserve Bank (or equivalent thereof)
which receives such an assignment from any Lender may make further
assignments of such rights in accordance with the provisions of this
Section.
67
<PAGE>
(iii) Any assignments and/or delegations made hereunder shall be
pursuant to an instrument of assignment and acceptance (the "Assignment
----------
and Acceptance") substantially in the form of SCHEDULE 13(b)(iii) and the
-------------- ------------------
parties to each such assignment shall execute and deliver to the Agent
for its acceptance the Assignment and Acceptance together with any Note
or Notes subject thereto. Upon such execution and delivery, from and
after the effective date specified in each Assignment and Acceptance,
which effective date shall be at least five (5) Business Days after the
execution thereof, (A) the assignee thereunder shall become a party
hereto and, to the extent provided in such Assignment and Acceptance,
have the rights and obligations of a Lender hereunder with Commitments
and outstanding Loans as set forth therein and (B) the assigning Lender
thereunder shall, to the extent provided in such assignment, be released
from its obligations under this Agreement as to that portion of its
obligation being so assigned and delegated. The Assignment and
Acceptance shall be deemed to amend this Agreement to the extent, and
only to the extent, necessary to reflect the addition of the assignee as
a Lender and the resulting adjustment of Commitments and outstanding
Loans arising from the purchase by and delegation to such assignee of all
or a portion of the rights and obligations of such assigning Lender under
this Agreement.
(iv) Upon its receipt of an Assignment and Acceptance executed by an
assigning Lender and the assignee together with the Note(s) subject to
such assignment and payment by the assignee to the Agent of a
registration and processing fee of $3,000, the Agent shall accept such
Assignment and Acceptance. Promptly upon delivering such Assignment and
Acceptance to the Agent, the assigning Lender shall give notice thereof
to the Borrower and the other Lenders pursuant to a Notice of Assignment
and Acceptance substantially in the form of SCHEDULE 13(b)(iv). Within
------------------
five (5) Business Days after receipt of such notice, the Borrower shall
execute and deliver to the Agent in exchange for such surrendered Note(s)
one or more new Notes payable to the order of such assignee in an amount
equal to the portion of the Commitments assumed, and the Loans purchased,
by such assignee pursuant to such Assignment and Acceptance and one or
more new Notes payable to the order of the assigning Lender in an amount
equal to the portion of the Commitments and outstanding Loans retained by
it hereunder. Each new Note shall be dated the effective date of such
Assignment and Acceptance and shall otherwise be in substantially the
form provided in SECTION 1.01. The canceled Note(s) surrendered by the
assigning Lender shall be returned to the Borrower upon the execution and
delivery of such new Note(s).
(v) Each Lender may sell participations in all or a portion of its
rights and obligations under this Agreement (including, without
limitation, all or a portion of its Commitments and the Notes held by
it); provided, however, that, (A) the selling Lender shall remain
obligated under this Agreement to the extent as it would if it had not
sold such participation, (B) the selling Lender shall remain solely
responsible to the other parties hereto for the performance of such
obligations, (C) at no time shall the selling Lender agree with such
participant to take or refrain from taking
68
<PAGE>
any action hereunder or under any other Loan Document, except that the
selling Lender may agree not to consent, without such participant's
consent, to any of the actions referred to in ARTICLE XII, to the extent
that the same require the consent of each Lender hereunder, (D) all
amounts payable by the Borrower hereunder shall be determined as if such
Lender had not sold such participation and no participant shall be
entitled to receive any greater amount pursuant to this Agreement than
the selling Lender would have been entitled to receive in respect of the
amount of the participation transferred by such Lender to such
participant had no such transfer occurred, and (E) the Borrower, the
Agent and the other Lenders shall continue to deal solely and directly
with the selling Lender in connection with such Lender's rights and
obligations under this Agreement.
(vi) Except for an assignment made to a separately organized branch
or affiliate of a Lender, (x) no assignment referred to above shall be
permitted without prior written consent of the Agent, which consent will
not be unreasonably withheld or delayed and (z) no participation referred
to above shall be sold without providing prior written notice thereof to
the Agent, such notice to include the amount of the participation sold
and the identity of the participant, and an undertaking by the selling
Lender to provide to the Agent such additional information regarding
such, anticipation as to Agent may reasonably request.
(vii) Except during the existence of an Event of Default, no
assignment by a Lender referred to above, other than to a Related Lender
Party and other than under paragraph (b)(ii) of this Section, shall be
permitted without the prior written consent of the Borrower, which
consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed.
(viii) The Borrower may not assign any of its rights or delegate
any of its duties or obligations hereunder.
(ix) Any Lender may, in connection with any assignment or
participation pursuant to this Section, disclose to the assignee or
participant any information relating to any of the Companies furnished to
such Lender by or on behalf of the Borrower and such assignee or
participant shall treat such information as confidential.
69
<PAGE>
XIV. MISCELLANEOUS
-------------
SECTION 14.01. SURVIVAL. This Agreement and all covenants, agreements,
------------- --------
representations and warranties made herein and in the certificates delivered
pursuant hereto, shall survive the making by the Lenders of the Loans and shall
continue in full force and effect so long as any Obligation is outstanding and
unpaid or any Lender has any obligation to advance funds to the Borrower
hereunder.
SECTION 14.02. FEES AND EXPENSES; INDEMNITY; ETC. The Borrower
------------- ---------------------------------
agrees (a) to pay or reimburse the Agent for all its reasonable out-of-pocket
costs and expenses incurred in connection with the development, preparation,
negotiation, interpretation and execution of, and any amendment, supplement or
modification to, this Agreement, the Notes and any other Loan Documents and the
consummation and administration of the transactions contemplated hereby,
including, without limitation, the reasonable fees and disbursements of (i)
counsel to the Agent and (ii) such agents of the Agent not regularly in its
employ, accountants, other auditing services, consultants and appraisers engaged
by or on behalf of the Agent or by the Borrower at the request of the Agent
(collectively, "Third Parties"); (b) to pay or reimburse the Agent for all its
-------------
reasonable costs and expenses incurred in connection with the enforcement or
preservation of any rights under this Agreement, the Notes and any other Loan
Documents, including, without limitation, the reasonable fees and disbursements
of (i) counsel to the Agent and (ii) Third Parties; (c) following the occurrence
of an Event of Default hereunder, to pay or reimburse the Lenders for the
reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel for the respective Lenders engaged
for the preservation or enforcement of such Lender's rights under this Agreement
or any other Loan Documents relating to such Event of Default; (d) to pay,
indemnify, and hold each Lender and the Agent harmless from, any and all
recording and filing fees and any and all liabilities with respect to, or
resulting from any delay in paying, stamp, excise and other taxes, if any, which
may be payable or determined to be payable in connection with the execution and
delivery of, or consummation or administration of any of the transactions
contemplated by, or any amendment, supplement or modification of, or any waiver
or consent under or in respect of, this Agreement, the Notes and any other Loan
Documents; and (e) to pay, indemnify, and hold each Lender and the Agent (and
their respective directors, officers, employees and agents) harmless from and
against any and all other liabilities, obligations, losses, damages, penalties,
actions, judgments, suits, costs, expenses or disbursements of any kind or
nature whatsoever with respect to the execution, delivery, enforcement,
performance and administration of, or any transaction contemplated by, any Loan
Document or the use or proposed use of the proceeds of the Loans or the
refinancing or restructuring of the credit arrangement provided under this
Agreement in the nature of a "work-out" or any proceedings with respect to the
bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, readjustment of debt, dissolution or
liquidation of the Borrower or any other party other than the Lender or Agent to
any Loan Document (all the foregoing in this clause (e), collectively, the
"indemnified liabilities"), provided, that the Borrower shall have no obligation
----------------------- --------
hereunder to the Agent or any Lender with respect to indemnified liabilities
arising from the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the Agent or any such
Lender. The agreements in this Section shall survive repayment of the Notes and
all other amounts payable hereunder.
70
<PAGE>
Section 14.03. NOTICE.
------------- ------
(a) All notices, requests, demands and other communications provided for
hereunder (including without limitation Loan Requests) shall be in writing
(including telecopied communication) and mailed or telecopied or delivered to
the applicable party at the addresses indicated below.
If to the Agent:
Fleet National Bank
One Federal Street
Mail Stop: MAOFD03D
Boston, Massachusetts 02110
Attention: Paula Lang
Telecopy No.: (617) 346-4346
and if to any Lender, at the address set forth on the appropriate signature page
hereto or, with respect to any assignee of the Notes under ARTICLE XIII, at the
address designated by such assignee in a written notice to the other parties
hereto;
in each case (except for routine communications), with a copy to:
Edwards & Angell, LLP
101 Federal Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02110
Telecopy No.: (617) 439-4170
Attention: Leonard Q. Slap, Esquire
If to the Borrower:
Voyager Information Networks, Inc.
4660 South Hagadorn, Suite 320
East Lansing, Michigan 48823
Attention: Christopher Torto
Telecopy No.: (517) 324-8942
with copies (except for routine communications) to:
Goodwin Procter & Hoar LLP
Exchange Place
Boston, Massachusetts 02109
Attention: David F. Dietz, P.C.
Telecopy No.: (617) 523-1231
or, as to each party, at such other address as shall be designated by such
parties in a written notice to the other party complying as to delivery with the
terms of this Section. All such notices, requests, demands and other
communication shall be deemed given upon receipt by the party to whom such
notice is directed.
71
<PAGE>
(b) The address of the Agent for payment hereunder is as follows:
Fleet National Bank, as Agent
One Federal Street
Mail Stop: MAOFD03D
Boston, Massachusetts 02110
Attention: Paula Lang
Telecopy No.: (617) 346-4346
SECTION 14.04. GOVERNING LAW. THIS AGREEMENT AND THE NOTES SHALL
------------- -------------
BE CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH AND GOVERNED BY THE INTERNAL LAWS OF THE
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS (WITHOUT GIVING EFFECT TO ANY CONFLICTS OR CHOICE
OF LAWS PROVISIONS THAT WOULD CAUSE THE APPLICATION OF THE DOMESTIC SUBSTANTIVE
LAWS OF ANY OTHER JURISDICTION).
SECTION 14.05. CONSENT TO JURISDICTION; WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL.
------------- ---------------------------------------------
(A) THE BORROWER TO THE EXTENT THAT IT MAY LAWFULLY DO SO, HEREBY CONSENTS
TO THE NONEXCLUSIVE JURISDICTION OF THE COURTS OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF
MASSACHUSETTS AND THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE OF MASSACHUSETTS, AS
WELL AS TO THE JURISDICTION OF ALL COURTS TO WHICH AN APPEAL MAY BE TAKEN FROM
SUCH COURTS, FOR THE PURPOSE OF ANY SUIT, ACTION OR OTHER PROCEEDING ARISING OUT
OF ANY OF ITS OBLIGATIONS ARISING HEREUNDER OR UNDER THE NOTES OR THE SECURITY
DOCUMENTS OR WITH RESPECT TO THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY, AND EXPRESSLY
WAIVES ANY AND ALL OBJECTIONS IT MAY HAVE AS TO VENUE, INCLUDING, WITHOUT
LIMITATION, THE INCONVENIENCE OF SUCH FORUM, IN ANY OF SUCH COURTS. IN
ADDITION, TO THE EXTENT THAT IT MAY LAWFULLY DO SO, THE BORROWER CONSENTS TO THE
SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PERSONAL SERVICE OR U.S. CERTIFIED OR REGISTERED MAIL,
RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED, ADDRESSED TO SUCH PARTY AT THE ADDRESS PROVIDED
HEREIN. TO THE EXTENT THAT THE BORROWER HAS OR HEREAFTER MAY ACQUIRE ANY
IMMUNITY FROM JURISDICTION OF ANY COURT OR FROM ANY LEGAL PROCESS (WHETHER
THROUGH SERVICE OR NOTICE, ATTACHMENT PRIOR TO JUDGMENT ATTACHMENT IN AID OF
EXECUTION OR OTHERWISE) WITH RESPECT TO ITSELF OR ITS PROPERTY, IT HEREBY
IRREVOCABLY WAIVES SUCH IMMUNITY IN RESPECT OF ITS OBLIGATIONS UNDER THIS
AGREEMENT AND THE OTHER LOAN DOCUMENTS.
(B) WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL. THE BORROWER HEREBY VOLUNTARILY AND IRREVOCABLY
--------------------
WAIVES TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY ACTION BROUGHT ON OR WITH RESPECT TO THIS AGREEMENT,
THE NOTES, THE SECURITY DOCUMENTS OR ANY OTHER AGREEMENTS EXECUTED IN CONNECTION
HEREWITH.
72
<PAGE>
SECTION 14.06. SEVERABILITY. Any provision of this Agreement, the
------------- ------------
Notes or any of the Security Documents which is prohibited or unenforceable in
any jurisdiction shall, as to such jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of
such prohibition or unenforceability without invalidating the remaining
provisions hereof or affecting the validity or enforceability of such provision
in any other jurisdiction.
SECTION 14.07. SECTION HEADINGS, ETC. Any Article and Section
------------- ----------------------
headings in this Agreement are included herein for convenience of reference only
and shall not constitute a part of this Agreement for any other purpose.
Section 14.08. SEVERAL NATURE OF LENDERS' OBLIGATIONS.
------------- --------------------------------------
Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement, the Notes or any of the Security
Documents to the contrary, all obligations of the Lenders hereunder shall be
several and not joint in nature, and in the event any Lender fails to perform
any of its obligations hereunder, the Borrower shall have no recourse against
any other Lender(s) who has (have) performed its (their) obligations hereunder.
The amounts payable at any time hereunder to each Lender shall be a separate and
independent debt, and each Lender shall be entitled to protect and enforce its
rights arising out of this Agreement, subject to the provisions of ARTICLE XII,
and it shall not be necessary for any other Lender to be joined as an additional
party in any proceeding for such purpose.
SECTION 14.09. COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed in several
-------------
counterparts, each of which shall be an original and all of which shall
constitute one and the same Agreement.
SECTION 14.10. KNOWLEDGE AND DISCOVERY. All references in this
------------- -----------------------
Agreement to "knowledge" of, or "discovery" by, the Borrower shall be deemed to
include, without limitation, any such actual knowledge of, or discovery by any
executive officer or the chief financial officer, if any, of the Borrower.
SECTION 14.11. AMENDMENT OF OTHER AGREEMENTS. All references in this
-------------
Agreement to other documents and agreements to which the Lenders are not parties
(including without limitation the Acquisition Agreements) shall be deemed to
refer to such documents and agreements as presently constituted and, except for
any amendments and modifications not prohibited under SECTION 7.11, not as
hereafter amended or modified unless the Required Lenders shall have expressly
consented in writing to such amendment(s) or modification(s).
SECTION 14.12. DISCLAIMER OF RELIANCE. THE BORROWER HAS NOT RELIED ON
------------- ----------------------
ANY ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CONCERNING ANY OF THE TERMS OR CONDITIONS OF THE LOANS,
THE NOTES, THIS AGREEMENT OR ANY OF THE SECURITY DOCUMENTS IN ENTERING INTO THE
SAME. THE BORROWER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT NONE OF THE OFFICERS OF THE
AGENT OR ANY LENDER HAS MADE ANY REPRESENTATIONS THAT ARE INCONSISTENT WITH THE
TERMS AND PROVISIONS OF THIS AGREEMENT, THE NOTES AND THE SECURITY DOCUMENTS,
AND NEITHER THE BORROWER NOR ANY OF ITS AFFILIATES HAS RELIED ON ANY ORAL
PROMISES OR REPRESENTATIONS IN CONNECTION THEREWITH.
73
<PAGE>
SECTION 14.13. ENVIRONMENTAL INDEMNIFICATION. Without limiting the
-------------
generality of SECTION 14.02, in consideration of the execution and delivery of
this Agreement by the Lenders and the making of the Loans, the Borrower hereby
indemnifies, exonerates and holds the Lenders and each of their respective
officers, directors, employees and agents (collectively, the "Indemnified
-----------
Parties") free and harmless from and against any and all actions, causes of
- -------
action, suits, losses, costs, liabilities and damages, and expenses incurred in
connection therewith (irrespective of whether any such Indemnified Party is a
party to the action for which indemnification hereunder is sought), including
reasonable attorneys' fees and disbursements (collectively, the "Indemnified
-----------
Liabilities"), incurred by the Indemnified Parties or any of them as a result
- -----------
of, or arising out of:
(a) any investigation, litigation or proceeding, including, without
limitation, the assertion of any lien, related to any environmental cleanup,
compliance action or release by any Company of any Hazardous Material or any
other matter affecting any of the Properties and relating to the protection of
the environment; or
(b) the presence on or under, or the actual or threatened discharge or
release from, any Property of any Hazardous Material whether or not such
Hazardous Material originates or emanates from such Property or is present or
threatening to affect such Property
(c) personal injury, death or property damage arising under any statutory
or common law tort theory of liability, including without limitation the
maintenance of a nuisance; or
(d) any other environmental condition arising at or affecting any of the
Properties which is limited, prohibited or otherwise regulated by a federal,
state or local agency charged with the enforcement of Environmental Laws.
The foregoing indemnification shall not apply to any such Indemnified
Liabilities arising for the account of a particular Indemnified Party by reason
of the relevant Indemnified Party's negligence or misconduct, and if and to the
extent that the foregoing undertaking may be unenforceable for any reason, the
Borrower agrees to make the maximum contribution to the payment and satisfaction
of each of the Indemnified Liabilities which is permissible under applicable
law. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein contained, the obligations
and liabilities under this Section shall survive and continue in full force and
effect and shall not be terminated, discharged or released in whole or in part
irrespective of whether all the Obligations have been paid in full or the
Commitments have been terminated and irrespective of any foreclosure of any
mortgage, deed of trust or collateral assignment on any real property or
acceptance by any Lender of a deed or assignment in lieu of foreclosure.
SECTION 14.14. INTEGRATION.
------------- -----------
This Agreement constitutes an amendment and restatement of the Original
Agreement in its entirety. The provisions contained herein, shall effective the
Closing Date, be deemed to supersede the terms of the Original Agreement. All
references to the Credit Agreement, Loan
74
<PAGE>
Agreement in any of the Security Agreements, or other Security Documents (in
each case as defined under the Original Agreement) shall after the effective
date hereof refer to the Original Agreement as amended hereby. This Agreement
and the other Loan Documents represent the agreement of the Borrower, the Agent
and the Lenders' with respect to the subject matter hereof, and there are no
promises, undertakings, representations or warranties by Agent or any Lender
relative to the subject matter hereof not expressly set forth or referred to
herein or in the other Loan Documents.
[THE NEXT PAGES ARE THE SIGNATURE PAGES]
75
<PAGE>
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Agent, the Lenders and the Borrower have caused
this Agreement to be duly executed by their duly authorized representatives, as
a sealed instrument, all as of the day and year first above written.
BORROWER:
--------
VOYAGER INFORMATION NETWORKS, INC.
By: /s/ Christopher P. Torto
--------------------------------------------
Title: President and Chief Executive Officer
AGENT:
-----
FLEET NATIONAL BANK
By: /s/ Vincent J. Rivers
---------------------------------------
Title: A.V.P.
LENDERS:
-------
FLEET NATIONAL BANK
By: /s/ Vincent J. Rivers
---------------------------------------
Title: A.V.P.
Lending Office for all Loans:
Fleet National Bank
One Federal Street
Mail Stop: MAOFD03D
Boston, Massachusetts 02110
Attention: Paula Lang
Telecopy No.: (617) 346-4346
76
<PAGE>
Address for Notices:
Fleet National Bank
One Federal Street
Mail Stop: MAOFD03D
Boston, Massachusetts 02110
Attention: Paula Lang
Telecopier No.: (617) 346-4346
FINOVA CAPITAL CORPORATION
By: /s/ Jill Johnston
---------------------------------------
Title: A.V.P.
Address for Notices:
FINOVA Capital Corporation
311 South Wacker Drive
Suite 4400
Chicago, Illinois 60606
Attention: Portfolio Manager
Telecopy No.: (312) 322-3530
and
FINOVA Capital Corporation
1850 N. Central Avenue
Phoenix, Arizona 85004
Attention: Vice President, Law
Telecopy No.: (602) 207-5036
STATE STREET BANK AND TRUST COMPANY
By: /s/ Hamilton H. Wood
---------------------------------------
Title: Vice President
77
<PAGE>
Address for Notices:
State Street Bank and Trust Company
225 Franklin Street
Boston, MA 02110
Attention: Hamilton H. Wood
Telecopy No.: (617) 664-3708
with a copy to:
Peter Palladino, Esquire
Choate, Hall & Stewart
Exchange Place
Boston, MA 02109
CIBC INC.
By: /s/ Laura Horn
---------------------------------------
Title: Executive Director
Address for Notices:
CIBC Inc.
425 Lexington Avenue
8th Floor
New York, NY 10017
Attention: Laura Hom
Telecopy No.: (212) 856-3558
with a copy to:
CIBC Inc.
2 Paces West, Suite 1200
2727 Paces Ferry Road
Atlanta, GA 30339
Attention: Chris Hiott
78
<PAGE>
JOINDER
-------
The undersigned joins in the execution of the foregoing Agreement for the
purpose of agreeing to be bound by the provisions thereof applicable to it.
VOYAGER.NET, INC.
By: /s/ Christopher Torto
---------------------------------------
Title:
79
<PAGE>
Exhibit 10.34
-------------
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
--------------------
This AGREEMENT (the "Agreement") is made as of September 15, 1999 (the
"Effective Date"), by and between Voyager Information Networks, Inc., a Michigan
corporation (the "Employer"), and Anthony Paalz (the "Executive").
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises and covenants
contained herein, the parties hereto agree as follows:
1. Employment. The Employer agrees to employ the Executive and the
----------
Executive agrees to be employed by the Employer on the terms and conditions set
forth in this Agreement.
2. Capacity. Executive shall serve the Employer as the Vice President
--------
of Marketing of the Employer and shall have day-to-day responsibility for the
sales, marketing and customer service aspects of the Employer's business,
reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer, as well as such other
responsibilities as may be specified from time to time by the Chief Operating
Officer of the Company which are materially consistent with the Executive's
position and general area of skills. The Executive shall also serve the
Employer in such other or additional offices as the Executive may be requested
to serve from time to time by the Chief Operating Officer of the Employer.
3. Term. Subject to the provisions of Section 5, the term of employment
----
pursuant to this Agreement (the "Term") shall be for three (3) years commencing
on the date hereof (the "Effective Date") and shall be renewed automatically for
periods of one (1) year commencing on the third anniversary of the Effective
Date and on each subsequent anniversary thereafter, unless either the Executive
or the Employer gives written notice to the other not less than ninety (90) days
prior to the date of any such anniversary of such party's election not to extend
the Term.
4. Compensation and Benefits. The regular compensation and benefits
-------------------------
payable to the Executive under this Agreement shall be as follows:
(a) Salary. For all services rendered by the Executive under this
------
Agreement, the Employer shall pay the Executive a salary (the "Salary") at the
annual rate of One Hundred Seventy Five Thousand Dollars ($175,000), subject to
increase from time to time in the discretion of the Employer. The Salary shall
be payable in periodic installments in accordance with the Employer's usual
practice for its senior Executives, but not less frequently than monthly.
(b) Bonus. The Executive shall be eligible for an annual bonus (the
-----
"Bonus") of up to thirty five percent (35%) of the Salary then in effect as
determined by the Employer.
<PAGE>
In determining the amount of Bonus, if any, the Employer shall consider its
assessment of the Employer's results of operations and the Executive's
individual performance during the relevant period. The Executive shall not be
eligible for other bonus payments under the Employer's bonus pool.
(c) Regular Benefits. The Executive shall also be entitled to
----------------
participate in any employee benefit plans, stock option plans, medical, dental
and vision insurance plans, life insurance plans, disability income plans,
retirement plans, vacation plans, expense reimbursement plans and other benefit
plans which the Employer may from time to time have in effect for all or most of
its senior Executives. Such participation shall be subject to the terms of the
applicable plan documents, generally applicable policies of the Employer,
applicable law and the discretion of the Board of Directors of the Employer (the
"Board of Directors") or any administrative or other committee provided for in
or contemplated by any such plan. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall be
construed to create any obligation on the part of the Employer to establish any
such plan or to maintain the effectiveness of any such plan which may be in
effect from time to time.
(d) Taxation of Payments and Benefits. The Employer shall undertake
---------------------------------
to make deductions, withholdings and tax reports with respect to payments and
benefits under this Agreement to the extent that it reasonably and in good faith
believes that it is required to make such deductions, withholdings and tax
reports. Payments under this Agreement shall be in amounts net of any such
deductions or withholdings. Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed to
require the Employer to make any payments to compensate the Executive for any
adverse tax effect associated with any payments or benefits or for any deduction
or withholding from any payment or benefit.
(e) Exclusivity of Salary and Other Benefits. The Executive shall not
----------------------------------------
be entitled to any payments or benefits other than those provided under this
Agreement.
5. Termination and Termination Benefits. Notwithstanding the provisions
------------------------------------
of Section 3, the Executive's employment under this Agreement shall terminate
under the following circumstances set forth in this Section 5.
(a) Termination by the Employer for Cause. The Executive's employment
-------------------------------------
under this Agreement may be terminated for cause without further liability on
the part of the Employer effective immediately upon written notice to the
Executive by the Employer. Only the following shall constitute "cause" for such
termination:
(i) the conviction of the Executive for a felony or the
conviction of the Executive for any misdemeanor involving moral turpitude,
deceit, dishonesty or fraud which in the reasonable judgment of the Employer is
likely to have a material adverse effect on the Employer;
2
<PAGE>
(ii) failure to perform (other than by reason of disability or
illness) to the reasonable satisfaction of the Employer a substantial portion of
the Executive's duties and responsibilities assigned or delegated under this
Agreement, which failure continues, in the reasonable judgment of the Employer,
for thirty (30) days after written notice from the Board of Directors stating
such failure by the Executive;
(iii) gross negligence, willful misconduct or insubordination
(which insubordination continues for any period of time after the Executive is
notified by the Company of such conduct) of the Executive with respect to the
Employer or any affiliate of the Employer and the Executives duties with respect
thereto;
(iv) material breach by the Executive of any of the Executive's
obligations under this Agreement, which breach is not cured within thirty (30)
days of written notice of such breach from the Employer; or
(v) a breach by the Executive of any provision of the
Confidentiality Agreement (as defined below).
(b) Termination by the Executive. The Executive's employment under
----------------------------
this Agreement may be terminated by the Executive by written notice to the Chief
Executive Officer at least sixty (60) days prior to such termination.
(c) Termination by the Employer Without Cause. Subject to the payment
-----------------------------------------
of Termination Benefits pursuant to Section 5(d), the Executive's employment
under this Agreement may be terminated by the Employer without cause upon
written notice to the Executive from the Employer. Notwithstanding the
foregoing, nothing in this Agreement shall be construed to prevent the Employer
from suspending the Executive with continuation of the Executive's Salary at the
rate then in effect for the purpose of conducting an investigation as to whether
the Executive engaged in conduct which would constitute Cause, provided,
however, that the period of any suspension in order to conduct such
investigation shall not exceed thirty (30) days.
(d) Certain Termination Benefits. Unless otherwise specifically
----------------------------
provided in this Agreement or otherwise required by law, all compensation and
benefits payable to the Executive under this Agreement shall terminate on the
date of termination of the Executive's employment under this Agreement.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event of termination of the Executive's
employment with the Employer pursuant to Sections 5(c) above and upon delivery
by the Executive to the Employer of a separation agreement, including, without
limitation, a general and irrevocable release of claims in favor of the
Employer, in a form acceptable to the Employer, the Employer shall provide to
the Executive the following termination benefits ("Termination Benefits"):
(i) continuation of the Executive's Salary at the rate then in
effect pursuant to Section 4(a); and
3
<PAGE>
(ii) continuation of group health plan benefits to the extent
authorized by and consistent with 29 U.S.C. (S) 1161 et seq. (commonly known as
-- ---
"COBRA"), with the cost of the regular premium for such benefits shared in the
same relative proportion by the Employer and the Executive as in effect on the
date of termination.
The Termination Benefits set forth in (i) and (ii) above shall continue
effective until the first anniversary of the date on which the Employer begins
providing Termination Benefits to the Executive; provided, however, that in the
-------- -------
event the Executive breaches the terms of the Confidentiality Agreement (as
defined below), then all of such Termination Benefits shall immediately cease.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing in this Section 5(d) shall be construed
to affect the Employee's right to receive COBRA continuation entirely at the
Employee's own cost to the extent that the Employee may continue to be entitled
to COBRA continuation after the Employee's right to cost sharing under Section
5(d)(ii) ceases.
(e) Death; Disability. Upon the death of the Employee or the
-----------------
permanent disability (as defined below) of the Employee continuing for a period
of one hundred twenty (120) out of one hundred fifty (150) consecutive days, all
obligations of the Employer under this Agreement shall immediately terminate
other than any obligation of the Employer with respect to earned but unpaid
Salary and benefits contemplated hereby to the extent accrued or vested through
the date of termination. As used herein, the terms "permanent disability" or
"permanently disabled" shall mean the inability of the Employee, by reason of
injury, illness or other similar cause, to perform a major part of his duties
and responsibilities in connection with the conduct of the business and affairs
of the Employer, as determined reasonably and in good faith by the Employer.
The Employer shall use reasonable commercial efforts to obtain and maintain in
effect disability insurance with respect to the Employee providing for
disability payments equivalent to Salary payments that would have been made from
termination due to disability through the date on which Salary obligations
otherwise would have terminated provided such insurance is obtainable on
commercially reasonable terms. Nothing in this Section 5(e) shall be construed
to waive the Employee's rights, if any, under existing law including, without
limitation, the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993, 29 U.S.C. (S) 2601 et seq.
-- ---
and the Americans with Disabilities Act, 42 U.S.C. (S) 12101 et seq.
-- ---
6. Confidential Information and Cooperation.
----------------------------------------
(a) Confidential Information. As of the Effective Date, the Executive
------------------------
shall execute and agrees to be bound by the Employer's Agreement Regarding
Inventions, Confidentiality and Non-Competition attached hereto as Exhibit A
("Confidentiality Agreement").
(b) Litigation and Regulatory Cooperation. During and after the
-------------------------------------
Executive's employment, regardless of reason for termination, the Executive
shall cooperate fully with the
4
<PAGE>
Employer in the defense or prosecution of any claims or actions now in existence
or which may be brought in the future against or on behalf of the Employer which
relate to events or occurrences that transpired while the Executive was employed
by the Employer. The Executive's full cooperation in connection with such claims
or actions shall include, but not be limited to, being available to meet with
counsel to prepare for discovery or trial and to act as a witness on behalf of
the Employer at mutually convenient times. During and after the Executive's
employment, the Executive also shall cooperate fully with the Employer in
connection with any investigation or review of any federal, state or local
regulatory authority as any such investigation or review relates to events or
occurrences that transpired while the Executive was employed by the Employer.
The Employer shall reimburse the Executive for any reasonable out-of-pocket
expenses incurred in connection with the Executive's performance of obligations
pursuant to this Section 6(b).
7. Dispute Resolution. Except as provided below, any dispute arising out
------------------
of or relating to this Agreement, the breach, termination or validity hereof, or
the Executive's employment or termination of employment with the Employer shall
be finally settled by final and binding arbitration conducted expeditiously in
accordance with the National Rules for the Resolution of Employment Disputes
("National Rules") of the American Arbitration Association ("AAA"). The
arbitration shall be governed by the United States Arbitration Act, 9 U.S.C.
(S)(S)1-16, and judgment upon the award rendered by the arbitrators may be
entered by any court having jurisdiction thereof. The place of arbitration
shall be Detroit, Michigan.
Such proceedings shall be administered by the neutral advisor in accordance
with the National Rules as he/she deems appropriate.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, the provisions
of this Section 7 shall not apply with regard to any equitable remedies to which
any party may be entitled hereunder or pursuant to the Confidentiality
Agreement.
Each of the parties hereto (a) hereby irrevocably submits to the
jurisdiction of any United States District Court of competent jurisdiction in
the State of Michigan for the purpose of enforcing the award or decision in any
such proceeding, (b) hereby waives, and agrees not to assert, by way of motion,
as a defense, or otherwise, in any such suit, action or proceeding, any claim
that it is not subject personally to the jurisdiction of the above-named courts,
that its property is exempt or immune from attachment or execution, that the
suit, action or proceeding is brought in an inconvenient forum, that the venue
of the suit, action or proceeding is improper or that this Employment Agreement
or the subject matter hereof may not be enforced in or by such court, and hereby
waives and agrees not to seek any review by any court of any other jurisdiction
which may be called upon to grant an enforcement of the judgment of any such
court. Each of the parties hereto hereby consents to service of process by
registered mail at the address to which notices are to be given. Each of the
parties hereto agrees that its or his submission to jurisdiction and its or his
consent to service of process by mail is made for the express benefit of the
other parties hereto. Final judgment against any party hereto in any such
5
<PAGE>
action, suit or proceeding may be enforced in other jurisdictions by suit,
action or proceeding on the judgment, or in any other manner provided by or
pursuant to the laws of such other jurisdiction.
8. Integration. This Agreement and, to the extent related hereto, the
-----------
Executive's Confidentiality Agreement, constitutes the entire agreement between
the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior
agreements between the parties with respect to any related subject matter.
9. Assignment; Successors and Assigns, etc. Neither the Employer nor the
---------------------------------------
Executive may make any assignment of this Agreement or any interest herein, by
operation of law or otherwise, without the prior written consent of the other
party; provided that the Employer may assign its rights under this Agreement
--------
without the consent of the Executive (a) in the event that the Employer shall
effect a reorganization, consolidate with or merge into any other corporation,
partnership, organization or other entity, or transfer all or substantially all
of its properties or assets or stock to any other corporation, partnership,
organization or other entity or (b) in connection with the granting of a
security interest in this Agreement to its senior lenders. This Agreement shall
inure to the benefit of and be binding upon the Employer and the Executive,
their respective successors, executors, administrators, heirs and permitted
assigns.
10. Enforceability. If any portion or provision of this Agreement
--------------
(including, without limitation, any portion or provision of any section of this
Agreement) shall to any extent be declared illegal or unenforceable by a court
of competent jurisdiction, then the remainder of this Agreement, or the
application of such portion or provision in circumstances other than those as to
which it is so declared illegal or unenforceable, shall not be affected thereby,
and each portion and provision of this Agreement shall be valid and enforceable
to the fullest extent permitted by law.
11. Waiver. No waiver of any provision hereof shall be effective unless
------
made in writing and signed by the waiving party. The failure of any party to
require the performance of any term or obligation of this Agreement, or the
waiver by any party of any breach of this Agreement, shall not prevent any
subsequent enforcement of such term or obligation or be deemed a waiver of any
subsequent breach.
12. Notices. Any notices, requests, demands and other communications
-------
provided for by this Agreement shall be sufficient if in writing and delivered
in person or sent by a nationally recognized overnight courier service or by
registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested, to the
Executive at the last address the Executive has filed in writing with the
Employer or, in the case of the Employer, at its main offices, attention of the
Chief Executive Officer, and shall be effective on the date of delivery in
person or by courier or three (3) days after the date mailed.
6
<PAGE>
13. Amendment. This Agreement may be amended or modified only by a
---------
written instrument signed by the Executive and by a duly authorized
representative of the Employer.
14. Governing Law. This is a Michigan contract and shall be construed
-------------
under and be governed in all respects by the laws of the State of Michigan,
without giving effect to the conflict of laws principles there.
15. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of
------------
counterparts, each of which when so executed and delivered shall be taken to be
an original; but such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same
document.
[End of Text]
7
<PAGE>
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Employment Agreement has been executed by the
Employer, by its duly authorized officer, and by the Executive, as of the
Effective Date.
EMPLOYER:
VOYAGER INFORMATION NETWORKS, INC.
By: /s/ Christopher Torto
----------------------------------------
Name: Christopher Torto
Title: Chief Executive Officer
EXECUTIVE:
/s/ Anthony Paalz
-------------------------------------------
Anthony Paalz
8
<PAGE>
Exhibit 10.35
-------------
VOYAGER INFORMATION NETWORKS, INC.
AGREEMENT
REGARDING INVENTIONS, CONFIDENTIALITY
AND NON-COMPETITION
Employee's Name: Anthony Paalz
Date: September 15, 1999
In consideration of my employment by Voyager Information Networks, Inc.
(the "Company"), I, the above-named Employee, hereby agree with the Company as
follows:
1. Definitions.
-----------
(a) Proprietary Information. As used in this Agreement, "Proprietary
-----------------------
Information" means information which the Company possesses or to which the
Company has rights whether reduced to writing (or in a form from which such
information can be obtained, translated, or derived into reasonably usable
form), or maintained in my mind or memory, which derives independent economic
value from not being readily known to or ascertainable by proper means by others
who can obtain economic value from the disclosure or use of such information,
including, without limitation, financial information, reports, and forecasts;
inventions, improvements and other intellectual property; trade secrets; know-
how; designs, processes or formulae; software; marketing or sales information or
plans; customer lists; and business plans, prospects and opportunities (such as
possible acquisitions or dispositions of businesses or facilities) which have
been discussed or considered by the management of the Company. Confidential
Information includes information developed by me in the course of my employment
by the Company, as well as other information to which I may have access in
connection with my employment. Confidential Information also includes the
confidential information of others with which the Company has a business
relationship.
(b) Inventions and Developments. As used in this Agreement,
---------------------------
"Inventions and Developments" means any and all inventions, developments,
creative works and useful ideas of any description whatsoever, whether or not
patentable. Inventions and Developments include, by way of example and without
limitation, discoveries and improvements which consist of or relate to any form
of Proprietary Information.
(c) Company-Related Inventions and Developments. For purposes of this
-------------------------------------------
Agreement, "Company-Related Inventions and Developments" means all Inventions
and Developments which either (a) relate at the time of conception or
development to the actual or demonstrably anticipated business of the Company or
to its actual or demonstrably anticipated research and development; (b) result
from or relate to any work performed for the Company,
<PAGE>
whether or not during normal business hours; (c) are developed on Company time;
or (d) are developed through the use of the Company's Proprietary Information,
equipment and software, or other facilities or resources.
(d) Company. For purposes of this Agreement, all references to the
-------
"Company" will be deemed to include the Company and its direct or indirect
subsidiaries and affiliates, including, without limitation, Voyager.net, Inc.
(e) Services. For purposes of this Agreement, all references to
--------
"Services" means the development, manufacture or marketing of products, or
performance or marketing of services which are competitive with or similar to
the products or services of the Company, or products or services which the
Company has under development or which are the subject of active planning at any
time during my employment, including without limitation, the provision of
Internet connectivity, web hosting, web development and domain hosting services,
Internet telephony and competitive local exchange carrier services.
(f) Customer. For purposes of this Agreement, all references to
--------
"Customer" means any person or entity who (i) is receiving Services from the
Company on the date of termination of my employment with the Company, (ii)
received Services, directly or indirectly, from the Company or me at any time
during the one (1) year period immediately preceding the date of termination of
my employment with the Company, (iii) I solicited, directly or indirectly, in
whole or in part, on behalf of the Company to provide Services within one (1)
year preceding the termination of my employment, or (iv) anyone solicited,
directly or indirectly, in whole or in part, on behalf of the Company to provide
Services within one (1) year preceding the termination of my employment.
2. Confidentiality. I understand and agree that my employment creates a
---------------
relationship of confidence and trust between me and the Company with respect to
(a) all Proprietary Information, and (b) the confidential information of others
with which the Company has a business relationship. The information referred to
in clauses (a) and (b) of the preceding sentence is referred to in this
Agreement, collectively, as "Confidential Information." At all times, both
during the term of my employment and after its termination, I will keep in
confidence and trust all such Confidential Information, and will not use or
disclose any such Confidential Information without the written consent of the
Company, except as may be necessary in the ordinary course of performing my
duties to the Company. The restrictions set forth in this Section 2 will not
apply to information which is generally known to the public or in the trade,
unless such knowledge results from an unauthorized disclosure by me, but this
exception will not affect the application of any other provision of this
Agreement to such information in accordance with the terms of such provision.
3. Documents, records, etc. All documents, records, apparatus, equipment
-----------------------
and other physical property, whether or not pertaining to Confidential
Information, which are furnished to me by the Company or are produced by me in
connection with my employment
2
<PAGE>
will be and remain the sole property of the Company. I will return to the
Company all such materials and property as and when requested by the Company. In
any event, I will return all such materials and property immediately upon
termination of my employment for any reason. I will not take with me any such
material or property or any copies thereof upon such termination.
4. Ownership of Inventions and Developments. I agree that all Company-
----------------------------------------
Related Inventions and Developments which I conceive or develop, in whole or in
part, either alone or jointly with others, during the term of my employment with
the Company will be the sole property of the Company. The Company will be the
sole owner of all patents, copyrights and other proprietary rights in and with
respect to such Company-Related Inventions and Developments. To the fullest
extent permitted by law, such Company-Related Inventions and Developments will
be deemed works made for hire. I hereby transfer and assign to the Company any
proprietary rights which I may have or acquire in any such Company-Related
Inventions and Developments, and I waive any moral rights or other special
rights which I may have or accrue therein. I agree to execute any documents
and take any actions that may be required to effect and confirm such transfer
and assignment and waiver. The provisions of this Section 4 will apply to all
Company-Related Inventions and Developments which are conceived or developed
during the term of my employment with the Company, whether before or after the
date of this Agreement, and whether or not further development or reduction to
practice may take place after termination of my employment, for which purpose it
will be presumed that any Company-Related Inventions and Developments conceived
by me which are reduced to practice within one year after termination of my
employment were conceived during the term of my employment with the Company
unless I am able to establish a later conception date by clear and convincing
evidence. The provisions of this Section 4 will not apply, however, to any
Inventions and Developments which may be disclosed in a separate Schedule
attached to this Agreement prior to its acceptance by the Company, representing
Inventions and Developments made by me prior to my employment by the Company.
5. Disclosure of Inventions and Developments. I agree promptly to
-----------------------------------------
disclose to the Company, or any persons designated by it, all Company-Related
Inventions and Developments which are or may be subject to the provisions of
Section 4.
6. Obtaining and Enforcing Proprietary Rights. I agree to assist the
------------------------------------------
Company, at the Company's request from time to time and at the Company's
expense, to obtain and enforce patents, copyrights or other proprietary rights
with respect to Company-Related Inventions and Developments in any and all
countries. I will execute all documents reasonably necessary or appropriate for
this purpose. This obligation will survive the termination of my employment,
provided that the Company will compensate me at a reasonable rate after such
termination for time actually spent by me at the Company's request on such
assistance. In the event that the Company is unable for any reason whatsoever
to secure my signature to any document reasonably necessary or appropriate for
any of the foregoing purposes (including renewals, extensions, continuations,
divisions or continuations in part), I hereby irrevocably designate
3
<PAGE>
and appoint the Company and its duly authorized officers and agents as my agents
and attorneys-in-fact to act for me and on my behalf, but only for the purpose
of executing and filing any such document and doing all other lawfully permitted
acts to accomplish the foregoing purposes with the same legal force and effect
as if executed by me.
7. Competitive Activities. During the term of my employment with the
----------------------
Company, and for a period of one (l) year thereafter, regardless of reason for
termination, I will not, directly or indirectly, whether as owner, partner,
shareholder, consultant, agent, employee, co-venturer or otherwise, engage,
participate or invest in any business activity in the Restricted Region with
respect to the Services. The prohibition set forth in this Section 7 shall not
restrict me from owning or holding up to one percent (1%) of the shares of stock
of any company registered or sold on any recognized stock exchange or sold in
the over-the-counter market. I understand and agree that the restrictions set
forth in this Section 7 are intended to protect the Company's reasonable
competitive business interests, its interest in its Proprietary Information and
established and prospective customer relationships and goodwill, and agree that
such restrictions are reasonable and appropriate for this purpose. For purposes
hereof, the "Restricted Region" shall mean any state or location in which the
Company operates and conducts its business or into which the Company directs its
services.
8. Nonsolicitation of Customers. During the term of my employment with
----------------------------
the Company and for one (1) year thereafter, regardless of reason for
termination, I will not, in any capacity, directly or indirectly:
(a) solicit the business or patronage of any Customer for any other
person or entity for the purpose of providing Services;
(b) divert, entice, or otherwise take away from the Company the
business or patronage of any Customer, or attempt to do so;
(c) solicit or induce any Customer to terminate or reduce its
relationship with the Company;
(d) provide or assist with the provision of Services to a Customer
(except in his capacity as an employee of the Company); or
(e) refer a Customer to another provider of Services.
9. Nonsolicitation of Employees. During the term of my employment with
----------------------------
the Company and for one (1) year thereafter, regardless of reason for
termination, I will not:
(a) hire or employ, directly or indirectly through any enterprise with
which I am associated, any current employee or consultant of the
Company or any individual who had been employed by or served as a
consultant to the Company within one (1) year preceding my
termination; or
4
<PAGE>
(b) recruit, solicit or induce (or in any way assist another person or
enterprise in recruiting, soliciting or inducing) any employee or
consultant of the Company to terminate his or her employment or
other relationship with the Company.
10. Acknowledgments. I acknowledge and agree that the restrictions set
---------------
forth in this Agreement are intended to protect the Company's interest in
Confidential Information and its commercial relationships and goodwill (with its
customers, prospective customers, vendors, consultants and employees),
including, without limitation, Confidential Information, commercial
relationships and are reasonable and appropriate for these purposes.
11. Disclosure of Agreement. I will disclose the existence and terms of
-----------------------
this Agreement to any prospective employer, partner, co-venturer, investor or
lender prior to entering into an employment, partnership or other business
relationship with such person or entity.
12. Third-Party Agreements and Rights. I hereby confirm that I am not
---------------------------------
bound by the terms of any agreement with any previous employer or other party
which restricts in any way my use or disclosure of information or my engagement
in any business, except as may be disclosed in a separate Schedule attached to
this Agreement prior to its acceptance by the Company. I have delivered to the
Company true and complete copies of any agreements listed on said Schedule. I
represent to the Company that my execution of this Agreement, my employment with
the Company and the performance of my proposed duties for the Company will not
violate any obligations I may have to any such previous employer or other party.
In my work for the Company, I will not disclose or make use of any information
in violation of any agreements with or rights of any such previous employer or
other party, and I will not bring to the premises of the Company any copies or
other tangible embodiments of non-public information belonging to or obtained
from any such previous employment or other party.
13. Injunction. I agree that it would be difficult to measure any damages
----------
caused to the Company which might result from any breach by me of the promises
set forth in this Agreement, and that in any event money damages would be an
inadequate remedy for any such breach. Accordingly, I agree that if I breach,
or propose to breach, any portion of this Agreement, the Company shall be
entitled, in addition to all other remedies that it may have, to an injunction
or other appropriate equitable relief to restrain any such breach without
showing or proving any actual damage to the Company.
14. Binding Effect. This Agreement will be binding upon me and my heirs,
--------------
executors, administrators and legal representatives and will inure to the
benefit of the Company, any subsidiary of the Company, and its and their
respective successors and assigns.
5
<PAGE>
15. Enforceability. If any portion or provision of this Agreement is to
--------------
any extent declared illegal or unenforceable by a court of competent
jurisdiction, then the remainder of this Agreement, or the application of such
portion or provision in circumstances other than those as to which it is so
declared illegal or unenforceable, will not be affected thereby, and each
portion and provision of this Agreement shall be valid and enforceable to the
fullest extent permitted by law. In the event that any provision of this
Agreement is determined by any court of competent jurisdiction to be
unenforceable by reason of excessive scope as to geographic, temporal or
functional coverage, such provision will be deemed to extend only over the
maximum geographic, temporal and functional scope as to which it may be
enforceable.
16. Entire Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement
----------------
between the Company and myself with respect to the subject matter hereof, and
supersedes all prior representations and agreements with respect to such subject
matter. This Agreement may not be amended, modified or waived except by a
written instrument duly executed by the person against whom enforcement of such
amendment, modification or waiver is sought. The failure of any party to
require the performance of any term or obligation of this Agreement, or the
waiver by any party of any breach of this Agreement, in any particular case will
not prevent any subsequent enforcement of such term or obligation or to be
deemed a waiver of any separate or subsequent breach.
17. Notices. Any notices, requests, demands and other communications
-------
provided for by this Agreement will be sufficient if in writing and delivered in
person or sent by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, to me at the
last address which I have filed in writing with the Company or, in the case of
any notice to the Company, at its main offices, to the attention of its Chief
Executive Officer.
18. Governing Law. This is a Michigan contract and shall be construed
-------------
under and be governed in all respects by the laws of the State of Michigan.
[End of Text]
6
<PAGE>
I UNDERSTAND THAT THIS AGREEMENT AFFECTS IMPORTANT RIGHTS. I HAVE READ IT
CAREFULLY AND AM SATISFIED THAT I UNDERSTAND IT COMPLETELY.
/s/ Anthony Paalz
--------------------------------
Anthony Paalz
Accepted and Agreed to:
VOYAGER INFORMATION
NETWORKS, INC.
By: /s/ Christopher Torto
-----------------------------
Name: Christopher Torto
Title: Chief Executive Officer
Date: September 15, 1999
7
<PAGE>
SCHEDULE OF PRIOR INVENTIONS
----------------------------
Employee Name: Anthony Paalz
Date: September 15, 1999
/s/ Anthony Paalz
---------------------------------
Anthony Paalz
Accepted by:
VOYAGER INFORMATION
NETWORKS, INC.
By: /s/ Christopher Torto
------------------------------
Name: Christopher Torto
Title: Chief Executive Officer
8
<PAGE>
SCHEDULE OF THIRD-PARTY AGREEMENTS
----------------------------------
Employee Name: Anthony Paalz
Date: September 15, 1999
/s/ Anthony Paalz
---------------------------------
Anthony Paalz
Accepted by:
VOYAGER INFORMATION
NETWORKS, INC.
By: /s/ Christopher Torto
------------------------------
Name: Christopher Torto
Title: Chief Executive Officer
9
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<PAGE>
<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM VOYAGER.NET,
INC. FORM 10-Q FOR THE PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1999 AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS
ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> 9-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> DEC-31-1999
<PERIOD-START> JAN-01-1999
<PERIOD-END> SEP-30-1999
<CASH> 17,722
<SECURITIES> 0
<RECEIVABLES> 3,480
<ALLOWANCES> 651
<INVENTORY> 0
<CURRENT-ASSETS> 22,046
<PP&E> 24,442
<DEPRECIATION> 5,218
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 101,221
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES> 15,365
<BONDS> 1,843
0
0
<COMMON> 3
<OTHER-SE> 84,010
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 101,221
<SALES> 31,524
<TOTAL-REVENUES> 32,138
<CGS> 0
<TOTAL-COSTS> 41,249
<OTHER-EXPENSES> 0
<LOSS-PROVISION> 0
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 2,002
<INCOME-PRETAX> (11,113)
<INCOME-TAX> 0
<INCOME-CONTINUING> (11,113)
<DISCONTINUED> 0
<EXTRAORDINARY> 0
<CHANGES> 0
<NET-INCOME> (11,113)
<EPS-BASIC> (0.45)
<EPS-DILUTED> (0.45)
</TABLE>
