<PAGE>
SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION
PROXY STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 14(a) OF
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FILED BY THE REGISTRANT / X /
FILED BY A PARTY OTHER THAN THE REGISTRANT / /
CHECK THE APPROPRIATE BOX:
/ / Preliminary Proxy Statement
/ / Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule
14a-6(e)(2))
/ X / Definitive Proxy Statement
/ / Definitive Additional Materials
/ / Soliciting Material Pursuant to Section 240.14a-119c) or Section
240.14a-12
SOUTHERN UNION COMPANY
----------------------------------------------------------
(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)
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(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)
PAYMENT OF FILING FEE (CHECK THE APPROPRIATE BOX):
/ / No fee required.
/ / Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1)
and 0-11.
1) Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies:
-----------------------------------------------------------------
2) Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies:
-----------------------------------------------------------------
3) Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed
pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (set forth the amount on which
the filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined):
-----------------------------------------------------------------
4) Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction:
-----------------------------------------------------------------
5) Total fee paid:
-----------------------------------------------------------------
/ X / Fee paid previously with preliminary materials.
/ / Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange
Act Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting
fee was paid previously. Identify the previous filing by
registration statement number, or the Form or Schedule and the date
of its filing.
(1) Amount Previously Paid:
(2) Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.:
(3) Filing Party:
(4) Date Filed:
<PAGE>
SOUTHERN
UNION
COMPANY
504 LAVACA STREET, EIGHTH FLOOR
AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701
JULY 12, 2000
Dear Fellow Stockholder:
It is our pleasure to extend to you a cordial invitation to attend a Special
Meeting of the Stockholders of Southern Union Company.
You may have read that your Board of Directors has agreed on mergers with Fall
River Gas Company and Providence Energy Corporation. The enclosed proxy
statement asks for your approval of these mergers and provides you with
detailed information about them. Please read this entire document carefully.
You may obtain additional information about Southern Union Company, Fall River
Gas Company and Providence Energy Corporation from documents filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission.
YOUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS HAS CONCLUDED THAT THE MERGERS ARE IN THE BEST
INTEREST OF SOUTHERN UNION COMPANY'S STOCKHOLDERS AND UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMENDS
THAT YOU VOTE IN FAVOR OF THE MERGERS.
Your vote is important. Whether or not you expect to attend the special
meeting, please vote by telephone or sign and date the enclosed proxy and
return it promptly by mail in the enclosed envelope which requires no postage
if mailed in the United States.
The special meeting will be held in Southern Union Company's offices at Lavaca
Plaza at 504 Lavaca Street, Austin, Texas, beginning at 2:00 p.m. (Central
Time), on August 29, 2000. On behalf of your Board of Directors, thank you for
your continued support and interest in Southern Union Company.
Sincerely,
/s/ GEORGE L. LINDEMANN
-------------------------
George L. Lindemann
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD AND
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
<PAGE>
SOUTHERN UNION COMPANY
504 LAVACA STREET, EIGHTH FLOOR
AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
TO BE HELD AUGUST 29, 2000
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a special meeting of stockholders of Southern
Union Company ("Southern Union") will be held in Southern Union's offices at
Lavaca Plaza, 504 Lavaca Street, Austin, Texas on August 29, 2000, beginning
at 2:00 p.m. (Central Time), for the following purposes:
To approve and adopt, separately and jointly: the Agreement of Merger
between Southern Union Company and Fall River Gas ("Fall River Gas"),
whereby Fall River Gas will merge with and into Southern Union; and the
Agreement and Plan of Merger between Southern Union, GUS Acquisition
Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Southern Union ("GUS") and
Providence Energy Corporation ("ProvEnergy"), whereby GUS will be merged
with and into ProvEnergy with ProvEnergy becoming the surviving
corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of Southern Union, whereupon
ProvEnergy will adopt and effect plans of merger whereby each of North
Attleboro Gas Company, a Massachusetts corporation, and Providence Gas
Company, a Rhode Island corporation, each of which is a subsidiary of
ProvEnergy, will be merged with and into ProvEnergy, and Southern Union
will adopt and effect an agreement and plan of merger whereby ProvEnergy
will be merged into Southern Union;
YOUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS THAT YOU VOTE "FOR" THIS PROPOSAL. The
Board of Directors is not aware of any other business to come before the
special meeting.
The Board of Directors has fixed the close of business on July 3, 2000, as the
record date for the determination of holders of Southern Union Company common
stock entitled to notice of and to vote at the meeting.
Stockholders of record of Southern Union's common stock at the close of
business on July 3, 2000 will be entitled to vote at the Special Meeting or
any adjournment or postponement thereof. A complete list of stockholders of
record entitled to vote at the Special Meeting will be maintained in Southern
Union's office at 504 Lavaca Street, Eighth floor, Austin, Texas 78701, for
ten days prior to the Special Meeting.
Whether you plan to attend the meeting or not, please vote by signing and
dating the enclosed proxy and return it promptly by mail in the enclosed
envelope. No postage is required if mailed in the United States. Should you
attend the Special Meeting in person you may, if you wish, withdraw your proxy
and vote your shares in person.
By order of the Board of Directors,
/s/ DENNIS K. MORGAN
--------------------
Dennis K. Morgan
SECRETARY
Austin, Texas
July 12, 2000
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE MERGERS...............................................1
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION...................................................4
SUMMARY...............................................................................7
The Companies....................................................................7
The Southern Union Special Meeting...............................................7
The Fall River Gas Merger........................................................8
The ProvEnergy Merger...........................................................12
Merger-Related Financing........................................................15
No Statutory Appraisal Rights...................................................15
Recommendation to Southern Union Common Stockholders............................15
Selected Historical and Pro Forma Financial Information.........................16
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS MAY PROVE INACCURATE......................................20
COMPARATIVE DIVIDENDS AND MARKET PRICES..............................................22
Southern Union..................................................................22
Fall River Gas..................................................................23
ProvEnergy......................................................................24
Historical Equivalent Per Share Market Values...................................24
COMPARATIVE PER SHARE DATA...........................................................25
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS..................................................................27
THE SOUTHERN UNION SPECIAL MEETING...................................................28
Purpose, Time and Place.........................................................28
Record Date; Voting Power; Vote Required........................................28
Share Ownership of Management; Management Vote; Voting Agreements...............28
Voting of Proxies...............................................................28
Revocability of Proxies.........................................................29
Solicitation of Proxies.........................................................29
THE FALL RIVER GAS MERGER............................................................30
Southern Union Background of the Fall River Gas Merger..........................30
Southern Union's Reasons for the Fall River Gas Merger..........................31
Recommendation of Southern Union's Board of Directors...........................32
Interests of Fall River Gas Officers and Directors in the Fall
River Gas Merger............................................................32
Certain U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Fall River Gas
Merger......................................................................33
Regulatory Approvals for the Fall River Gas Merger..............................34
Accounting Treatment for the Fall River Gas Merger..............................34
Listing of Southern Union Common Stock..........................................35
Federal Securities Law Consequences.............................................35
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PAGE
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THE PROVENERGY MERGER................................................................36
Southern Union Background of the ProvEnergy Merger..............................36
Southern Union's Reasons for the ProvEnergy Merger..............................37
Recommendation of Southern Union's Board of Directors...........................38
Interests of ProvEnergy Officers and Directors in the ProvEnergy
Merger......................................................................38
Certain Federal Income Tax Consequences of the ProvEnergy Merger................39
Regulatory Approvals for the ProvEnergy Merger..................................39
Accounting Treatment for the ProvEnergy Merger..................................40
MERGER-RELATED FINANCING ............................................................41
NO STATUTORY APPRAISAL RIGHTS........................................................41
THE FALL RIVER GAS MERGER AGREEMENT..................................................42
Structure of the Merger.........................................................42
Closing; Effective Time.........................................................42
Fall River Gas Merger Consideration.............................................42
Representations and Warranties..................................................43
Covenants and Other Agreements..................................................44
Indemnification and Insurance for Fall River Gas Officers and
Directors...................................................................47
No Solicitation by Fall River Gas...............................................47
Conditions to the Completion of the Fall River Gas Merger.......................49
Amendment of the Fall River Gas Merger Agreement................................50
Termination of the Fall River Gas Merger Agreement..............................50
Termination Fees and Expenses...................................................51
THE PROVENERGY MERGER AGREEMENT......................................................52
Structure of the Merger.........................................................52
Closing; Effective Time.........................................................52
ProvEnergy Merger Consideration.................................................53
Providence Gas Preferred Stock..................................................53
Providence Gas Indenture........................................................53
Stock Options and Performance Shares............................................53
Representations and Warranties..................................................53
Covenants and Other Agreements, including Post-Closing Commitments..............55
Indemnification and Insurance for ProvEnergy Officers and Directors.............58
No Solicitation by ProvEnergy...................................................58
Conditions to the Completion of the ProvEnergy Merger...........................59
Amendment of the ProvEnergy Merger Agreement....................................60
Termination of the ProvEnergy Merger Agreement..................................60
Termination Fees and Expenses...................................................61
POSSIBLE EFFECTS OF MERGERS ON SOUTHERN UNION STOCKHOLDER RIGHTS.....................62
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS..........................64
THE COMPANIES........................................................................71
Southern Union Company..........................................................71
Fall River Gas..................................................................72
ProvEnergy......................................................................73
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PAGE
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PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS...............................................................75
Beneficial Owners of More Than 5% of Southern Union's Outstanding
Common Stock................................................................75
Southern Union Management Ownership.............................................76
Beneficial Owners of More Than 5% of Fall River Gas' Common Stock...............77
Fall River Gas Management Ownership.............................................78
ProvEnergy Management Ownership.................................................79
PROPOSALS OF STOCKHOLDERS............................................................80
OTHER MATTERS........................................................................80
EXPERTS..............................................................................80
OTHER BUSINESS.......................................................................81
APPENDIX A Agreement of Merger between Southern Union Company and Fall River
Gas Company
APPENDIX B Voting Agreement between Southern Union Company and Certain Fall
River Gas Company Stockholders
APPENDIX C Agreement of and Plan of Merger between Southern Union Company, GUS
Acquisition Corporation and ProvEnergy Corporation
</TABLE>
iii
<PAGE>
The accompanying proxy, to be mailed to Southern Union stockholders together
with the Notice of Special Meeting and this proxy statement on or about July
12, 2000, is solicited by Southern Union in connection with the special
meeting to be held on August 29, 2000.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE MERGERS
Q: WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO SOUTHERN UNION COMPANY AS A RESULT OF THE FALL RIVER
GAS AND PROVENERGY MERGERS?
A: If the Fall River Gas merger is completed, Fall River Gas will merge into
Southern Union, Fall River Gas' utility operations will become a division
of Southern Union, and Fall River Gas' non-regulated subsidiary will
become a subsidiary of Southern Union. If the ProvEnergy merger is
completed, ProvEnergy and its utility subsidiaries will merge with and
into Southern Union, ProvEnergy's utility operations will become
divisions of Southern Union, and ProvEnergy's non-utility subsidiaries
will become subsidiaries of Southern Union.
Q: WHAT DO I NEED TO DO NOW?
A: You should carefully read and consider the information contained in this
document. You should complete and sign your proxy and return it in the
enclosed envelope as soon as possible so that your shares may be
represented at the special meeting. Failing to vote in person, or by proxy
will have the same effect as a vote against the merger agreements.
Q: WHAT IS THE REQUIRED SOUTHERN UNION STOCKHOLDER VOTE TO APPROVE AND ADOPT
THE MERGER AGREEMENTS?
A: The merger agreements must be approved and adopted by the holders of at
least two-thirds of the outstanding shares of Southern Union common stock
entitled to vote at the special meeting in order to minimize any delay of
regulatory approval of the Fall River Gas merger and the North Attleboro
Gas Company merger (which is a part of the ProvEnergy merger) by the
Massachusetts utility regulatory authority, in accordance with
Massachusetts law. No stockholder vote is required under Southern
Union's organizational documents or Delaware corporation law.
Q: WHO IS ENTITLED TO VOTE?
A: Stockholders as of the close of business on the record date, July 3, 2000,
are entitled to vote at the special meeting. Each share of Southern Union
common stock is entitled to one vote.
Q: HOW DO I VOTE?
A: Sign and date each proxy card you receive and return it in the prepaid
envelope. If you do not mark any selections, your proxy card will be
voted in favor of the proposal. You have the right to revoke your proxy
at any time before the special meeting by (1) notifying Southern Union's
Corporate Secretary, (2) attending the special meeting and voting in
person or (3) returning a later-dated proxy. If you return your signed
proxy card, but do not indicate your voting preferences, the proxy will
be voted FOR the proposal on your behalf.
The Board of Directors is not aware of any matter other than the matters
described above to be presented for action at the special meeting. If a
proposal other than the one listed in the Notice is presented at the
special meeting, your signed proxy card gives authority to George L.
Lindemann and Peter H. Kelley to vote on such matters. They intend to vote
in accordance with their best judgment.
Proxies should NOT be sent by stockholders to Southern Union but to
Fleet Bank, N.A. c/o EquiServe, L.P., Southern Union's Registrar and
Transfer Agent, at 150 Royal Street, Canton, Massachusetts 02021.
Q: IS MY VOTE CONFIDENTIAL?
A: Yes. Proxy cards, ballots and voting tabulations that identify individual
stockholders are confidential. Only the inspectors of election and certain
employees associated with processing proxy cards and counting the vote
have access to your card. Additionally, all comments directed to Southern
Union's management (whether written on the proxy card or elsewhere) will
remain confidential, unless you ask that your name be disclosed.
Q: WHO WILL COUNT THE VOTE?
A: Representatives of Southern Union and its legal counsel, Fleischman and
Walsh, L.L.P., will tabulate the votes and act as inspectors of the
election.
Q: WHAT DOES IT MEAN IF I GET MORE THAN ONE PROXY CARD?
1
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A: It is an indication that your shares are registered differently and are in
more than one account, including your accounts in Southern Union's Direct
Stock Purchase Plan, the executive compensation plans, employee benefit
plans and shares credited to your Savings Plan account held in custody by
the trustee, Wilmington Trust. Sign and return all proxy cards to ensure
that all your shares are voted.
Q: WHAT CONSTITUTES A QUORUM?
A: As of the record date, 49,509,738 shares of the Southern Union common
stock were issued and outstanding. A majority of the outstanding shares,
present or represented by proxy, constitutes a quorum for the transaction
of adopting proposals at the special meeting. If you submit a properly
executed proxy card, then you will be considered part of the quorum. If
you are present or represented by a proxy at the special meeting and you
abstain, your abstention will have the same effect as a vote AGAINST the
proposal to approve the Fall River Gas and ProvEnergy merger agreements.
Broker non-votes will be counted as part of the quorum but will not be
part of the voting power present.
Q: WHO CAN ATTEND THE SPECIAL MEETING?
A: All stockholders as of the record date can attend.
Q: WHEN ARE THE 2000 STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS DUE?
A: In order to be considered for inclusion in the next annual meeting's proxy
statement, stockholder proposals must have been submitted in writing by
June 30, 2000, to Dennis K. Morgan, Corporate Secretary, at Southern Union
Company, 504 Lavaca Street, Eighth Floor, Austin, Texas 78701.
Q: WHO PAYS FOR THIS PROXY SOLICITATION?
A: Southern Union will reimburse brokerage houses and other custodians,
nominees and fiduciaries for their reasonable out-of-pocket expenses for
forwarding proxy and solicitation material to the owners of Southern Union
common stock.
Q: WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE FALL RIVER GAS AND PROVENERGY
MERGERS?
A: You should carefully read and consider the information contained in this
document. You should complete and sign your proxy and return it in the
enclosed envelope as soon as possible so that your shares may be
represented at the special meeting. Failing to vote in person or by proxy
will have the same effect as a vote AGAINST the mergers.
Q: WHAT ARE THE REQUIRED FALL RIVER GAS AND PROVENERGY STOCKHOLDER VOTES TO
APPROVE THE MERGERS?
A: The Fall River Gas merger agreement must be approved by the holders of
two-thirds of shares of Fall River Gas common stock entitled to vote at
Fall River Gas' special meeting of stockholders to be held on August 29,
2000, and the ProvEnergy merger agreement was approved by the holders of a
majority of the shares of ProvEnergy common stock entitled to vote at
ProvEnergy's special meeting held on May 22, 2000.
Q: MUST EITHER OR BOTH MERGERS CLOSE, OR NEITHER CLOSE?
A: We are planning to close the Fall River Gas Merger, the ProvEnergy merger
and another pending merger with Valley Resources, Inc., all at essentially
the same time, but it is possible that we might not. Each of the three
mergers is separate. Any of the three mergers may close whether either (or
both) of the other mergers close. Southern Union plans to close all three
mergers at the same time, but they may close at different times. There is
no assurance that any or all three of the mergers will close.
Q: WHEN ARE THE MERGERS EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED?
A: Southern Union is working as quickly as possible, along with its merger
partners, and hopes to complete both mergers in September 2000.
Q: AM I ENTITLED TO DISSENTERS' RIGHTS?
A: Under Delaware law, you do not have dissenters' rights in connection with
either the Fall River Gas merger or the ProvEnergy merger.
Q: MY SHARES ARE HELD IN "STREET NAME." WILL MY BROKER VOTE MY SHARES ON THE
MERGERS?
A: A broker will vote your shares on the merger agreements only if you
provide your broker with instructions on how to vote. You should follow
the directions provided by your broker(s) regarding how to instruct
brokers to vote the shares.
Q: WHO CAN HELP ANSWER MY QUESTIONS?
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A: If you have any questions about the mergers or if you need additional
copies of this document or the enclosed proxy, you should contact:
George Yankowski
Director of Investor Relations
Southern Union Company
504 Lavaca Street
Austin, Texas 78701
Telephone 512-370-8305.
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WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
We file annual, quarterly and special reports, proxy statements and other
information with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). Any reports,
statements or other information that the companies have filed may be read and
copied at the following locations of the SEC.
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<S> <C> <C>
Public Reference Room New York Regional Office Chicago Regional Center
Room 1024 Suite 100 Citicorp Center
450 Fifth Street, N.W. 7 World Trade Center Suite 1400
Washington, D.C. 20549 New York, New Your 100487 500 West Madison Street
Chicago, Illinois 60661-2511
</TABLE>
You may also obtain copies of this information by mail from the public
reference section of the SEC, 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Room 1024, Washington,
D.C. 20549. Please call the SEC at 1-800-732-0330 for further information on
the public reference rooms. The SEC filings of Southern Union, Fall River Gas,
and ProvEnergy should also be available to the public from commercial
retrieval services and at the Internet web site maintained by the SEC at
http://www.sec.gov.
Materials and information concerning Southern Union and ProvEnergy can be
inspected at the New York Stock Exchange, Inc., 20 Broad Street, 7th Floor,
New York, New York 10005, where Southern Union and ProvEnergy common stock is
listed. In addition, materials and information concerning Fall River Gas can
be inspected at the American Stock Exchange, Inc., The Office of the
Secretary, 86 Trinity Place, 12th Floor, New York, New York 10006, where Fall
River Gas Common Stock is listed.
The SEC allows us to "incorporate by reference" certain information into this
proxy statement. This means that we can disclose important information to you
by referring you to another document filed separately with the SEC. The
information incorporated by reference is considered to be part of this
document, except for any additional information that is superseded by
information contained directly in this document. We incorporate by reference
the documents listed below that were previously filed with the SEC by Southern
Union (SEC File No. 1-06407), Fall River Gas (SEC File No. 1-13517) and
ProvEnergy (SEC File No. 1-10032). These documents contain important
information (including the financial condition) about Southern Union and its
merger partners.
SEC FILINGS REGARDING SOUTHERN UNION (FILE NO. 1-06407)
- Southern Union's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June
30, 1999.
- Southern Union's Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A for the 1999
Annual Meeting of Stockholders filed with the SEC on September 17, 1999.
- Southern Union's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
September 30, 1999.
- Southern Union's Form 8-K, filed with the SEC on October 8, 1999.
- Southern Union's Form 8-K, filed with the SEC on November 18, 1999 (which
incorporates by reference financial information for Pennsylvania
Enterprises, Inc.).
- Southern Union's Forms 8-K (two), filed with the SEC on November 19, 1999.
- Southern Union's Form 8-K, filed with the SEC on December 6, 1999.
- Southern Union's Form 8-K, filed with the SEC on December 30, 1999.
- Southern Union's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
December 31, 1999.
- Southern Union's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March
31, 2000
4
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- Southern Union's Form 8-K filed with the SEC on June 5, 2000 (which
includes certain historical financial information for Pennsylvania
Enterprises, Inc., ProvEnergy and Valley Resources, Inc.).
SEC FILINGS REGARDING FALL RIVER GAS (FILE NO. 1-13517)
- Fall River Gas' Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
September 30, 1999.
- Fall River Gas' Form 8-K, filed with the SEC on October 20, 1999.
- Fall River Gas' Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A for the 1999
Annual Meeting of Stockholders filed with the SEC on December 21, 1999.
- Fall River Gas' Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
December 31, 1999.
- Fall River Gas' Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March
31, 2000.
- Fall River Gas' Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A for a Special
Meeting of stockholders to be held on August 29, 2000, filed with the SEC
on July 7, 2000.
SEC FILINGS REGARDING PROVENERGY (SEC FILE NO. 1-10032)
- ProvEnergy's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
September 30, 1999.
- ProvEnergy's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December
31, 1999.
- ProvEnergy's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31,
2000.
- ProvEnergy's Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A for the 1999 Annual
Meeting of Shareholders filed with the SEC on December 21, 1999.
- ProvEnergy's Form 8-K, filed with the SEC on April 3, 2000.
- ProvEnergy's Definitive Proxy Statement for a Special Meeting of
Shareholders held on May 22, 2000 filed with the SEC on April 10, 2000.
Southern Union, Fall River Gas and ProvEnergy may be required by the SEC to
file other documents pursuant to Section 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 between the time this proxy statement is sent
and the date the Southern Union special meeting is held. These other documents
will be considered to be incorporated by reference in this proxy statement and
to be a part of it from the date they are filed with the SEC.
Southern Union may have sent you some of the documents regarding Southern
Union that are incorporated by reference, but you can obtain any of them
through Southern Union, the SEC or the SEC's Internet web site as previously
described. Likewise, you can obtain the documents regarding Fall River Gas and
ProvEnergy that are incorporated by reference through either Fall River Gas or
ProvEnergy, respectively, or, the SEC or the SEC's Internet web site as
previously described.
5
<PAGE>
Documents incorporated by reference as exhibits to this proxy statement are
available from Southern Union, Fall River Gas and ProvEnergy without charge.
You may obtain documents incorporated by reference in this proxy statement by
requesting them in writing or by telephone from the appropriate company at the
following addresses:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
SOUTHERN UNION COMPANY FALL RIVER GAS COMPANY PROVIDENCE ENERGY
Attention: George Yankowski Attention: Peter H. Thanas CORPORATION
Director of Investor Relations Senior Vice President and Treasurer Attention: Timothy Green
504 Lavaca Street, Eighth Floor 155 North Main Street Investor Relations
Austin, Texas 78701 P.O. Box 911 100 Weybosset Street
(512) 477-5852 Fall River, Massachusetts 02722-0911 Providence, Rhode Island 02903
(508) 675-7811 (401) 272-5040
</TABLE>
All information contained in or incorporated by reference in this proxy
statement with respect to Southern Union has been provided by Southern Union.
All information contained in or incorporated by reference in this proxy
statement with respect to Fall River Gas has been provided by Fall River Gas.
All information contained in and incorporated by reference in this proxy
statement with respect to ProvEnergy has been provided by ProvEnergy. Southern
Union, Fall River Gas and ProvEnergy assume no responsibility for the accuracy
or completeness of the information provided by the other parties.
YOU SHOULD RELY ONLY ON THE INFORMATION CONTAINED OR INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
IN THIS PROXY STATEMENT TO VOTE ON THE MERGER AGREEMENTS. SOUTHERN UNION, FALL
RIVER GAS AND PROVENERGY HAVE NOT AUTHORIZED ANYONE TO PROVIDE YOU WITH
INFORMATION THAT IS DIFFERENT FROM WHAT IS CONTAINED IN THIS PROXY STATEMENT.
THIS PROXY STATEMENT IS DATED JULY 12, 2000. YOU SHOULD NOT ASSUME THAT THE
INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS PROXY STATEMENT IS ACCURATE AS OF ANY DATE OTHER
THAN THAT DATE, AND NEITHER THE MAILING OF THIS PROXY STATEMENT TO
STOCKHOLDERS NOR THE COMPLETION OF THE MERGER SHALL CREATE ANY IMPLICATION TO
THE CONTRARY.
6
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SUMMARY
THIS SUMMARY HIGHLIGHTS SELECTED INFORMATION FROM THIS PROXY STATEMENT AND MAY
NOT CONTAIN ALL OF THE INFORMATION THAT IS IMPORTANT TO YOU. TO UNDERSTAND THE
MERGERS AND FOR A MORE COMPLETE DESCRIPTION OF THE LEGAL TERMS OF THE MERGERS,
YOU SHOULD READ THIS ENTIRE DOCUMENT CAREFULLY AND THE OTHER DOCUMENTS TO
WHICH WE HAVE REFERRED YOU. SEE "WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION" ON PAGE
4. WE HAVE INCLUDED PAGE REFERENCES IN PARENTHESES TO DIRECT YOU TO A MORE
COMPLETE DESCRIPTION OF THE TOPICS PRESENTED IN THIS SUMMARY. ("WE" AND "OUR"
AS USED IN THIS DOCUMENT REFER TO SOUTHERN UNION.)
THE COMPANIES
SOUTHERN UNION (SEE PAGE 71)
Southern Union is a publicly owned international energy company headquartered
in Austin, Texas, that primarily engages in the distribution of natural gas
and is one of the fifteen largest distributors in the nation by customer
count. Southern Union serves more than 1.2 million customers through: its four
natural gas divisions in Texas, Missouri, Pennsylvania, and Florida; its
propane distribution subsidiaries; and its equity ownership in a natural gas
distribution company serving Piedras Negras, Mexico. Through its subsidiaries,
Southern Union also markets natural gas to end users, operates natural gas
pipeline systems, generates and markets electricity, and constructs, maintains
and rehabilitates natural gas distribution pipelines. Southern Union recently
completed a merger with Pennsylvania Enterprises, Inc. ("PEI"), on November 4,
1999 (see "Recent Developments"). On October 4, November 14 and November 30,
1999, Southern Union entered into merger agreements with Fall River Gas,
ProvEnergy and Valley Resources, Inc. ("Valley Resources"), respectively (see
"Recent Developments").
FALL RIVER GAS (SEE PAGE 72)
Fall River Gas is a publicly owned company, headquartered in Fall River,
Massachusetts, that is primarily engaged in the distribution of natural gas.
Fall River Gas provides natural gas to more than 48,000 customers in
southeastern Massachusetts. Through its non-regulated subsidiary, Fall River
Gas markets and rents water heaters, conversion burners and central heating
and air conditioning systems to customers in Fall River Gas' service area.
PROVENERGY (SEE PAGE 73)
ProvEnergy is a distributor and marketer of natural gas, heating oil and
petroleum products, as well as a marketer of electricity and energy services.
ProvEnergy serves approximately 181,000 gas utility customers in Rhode Island
and Massachusetts. Its principal subsidiaries within its regulated operations
include The Providence Gas Company ("Providence Gas") and North Attleboro Gas
Company ("North Attleboro Gas").
THE SOUTHERN UNION SPECIAL MEETING
PURPOSE, TIME AND PLACE
The Southern Union special meeting will be held at 2:00 p.m. (Central Time) on
August 29, 2000, in Southern Union's offices at Lavaca Plaza, 504 Lavaca
Street, Austin, Texas. At the special meeting, holders of Southern Union
common stock will be asked to approve and adopt the Fall River Gas and
ProvEnergy merger agreements.
RECORD DATE; VOTING POWER; VOTE REQUIRED (SEE PAGE 28)
If you owned shares of Southern Union common stock as of the close of business
on July 3, 2000, you are entitled to vote at the special meeting.
On that date, there were 49,509,738 shares of Southern Union common stock
outstanding. Holders of Southern Union common stock will have one vote at the
special meeting for each share of Southern Union common stock they own on that
date.
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As of the close of business on June 30, 2000, directors and executive officers
of Southern Union and members of Chairman Lindemann's family beneficially
owned and were entitled to vote approximately 32% of the shares of Southern
Union outstanding on that date. Each of them has indicated his or her present
intention to vote, or cause to be voted, the Southern Union common stock owned
by him or her for the proposal to approve and adopt the merger agreements.
A majority of the shares of Southern Union common stock outstanding and
entitled to vote on the record date must be present in person or by proxy at
the special meeting or voted by telephone in order for a quorum to be present.
Consummation of the mergers requires the approval of the merger proposal by at
least two-thirds of the shares of Southern Union outstanding and entitled to
vote at the meeting in order to minimize any delay of regulatory approval of
the Fall River Gas merger and the North Attleboro merger (which is a part of
the ProvEnergy merger) by the Massachusetts utility regulatory authority, in
accordance with Massachusetts law. No stockholder vote is required under
Southern Union's organizational documents or Delaware corporation law.
SHARE OWNERSHIP OF MANAGEMENT; MANAGEMENT VOTE; VOTING AGREEMENT
As of the close of business on June 30, 2000, directors and executive officers
of Southern Union and members of Chairman Lindemann's family beneficially
owned and were entitled to vote shares of Southern Union common stock that
represented approximately 32% of the shares of Southern Union entitled to vote
on the merger agreements. Each of them has indicated his or her present
intention to vote, or cause to be voted, the Southern Union common stock owned
by him or her for the approval and adoption of the merger agreements. The
Lindemann family members have given an irrevocable proxy to ProvEnergy with
respect to voting their Southern Union common stock (representing
approximately 27% of shares entitled to vote) for the ProvEnergy merger
agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby. Directors and executive
officers (other than the Lindemanns, who have signed the proxy referred to
above) beneficially owned and were entitled to vote approximately 5% of the
shares of Southern Union common stock entitled to vote on the merger
agreements.
VOTING OF PROXIES
If you hold your shares of Southern Union common stock through a broker or
nominee, you must instruct your broker on how you would like to vote or these
shares will not be voted, although they may be counted as present if your
broker or nominee returns a proxy card without any voting instructions.
Similarly, a properly executed proxy marked "ABSTAIN" will be counted as
present, but will not be counted as a vote cast. ACCORDINGLY, ABSTENTIONS AND
BROKER NON-VOTES WILL HAVE THE EFFECT OF A VOTE "AGAINST" THE PROPOSAL FOR THE
APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE MERGER AGREEMENTS.
THE FALL RIVER GAS MERGER
SUMMARY (SEE PAGE 42)
We are asking you to approve and adopt the merger agreement that provides for
the merger of Fall River Gas into Southern Union. Fall River Gas' utility
operations will become a division of Southern Union, and Fall River Gas'
non-regulated subsidiary will become a subsidiary of Southern Union.
The Fall River Gas merger will become effective following the Fall River Gas
approval of the merger agreement by the stockholders of Fall River Gas and the
satisfaction or waiver of all other conditions to the merger. At this time,
these conditions include certain approvals of the state regulatory commissions
of Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Florida.
The merger agreement between Southern Union and Fall River Gas is attached at
the back of this proxy statement as Appendix A. We encourage you to read the
Fall River Gas merger agreement since it is the legal document that governs
the Fall River Gas merger.
FALL RIVER GAS MERGER CONSIDERATION (SEE PAGE 42)
When the Fall River Gas merger is completed, each share of Fall River Gas
common stock will be canceled. Fall River Gas stockholders will have the
option to elect either cash or Southern Union common stock or a combination of
both in exchange for their shares of Fall River Gas, subject to certain
limitations.
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Each share of Fall River Gas common stock that a Fall River Gas stockholder
elects to exchange for cash will be converted into the right to receive $23.50
in cash unless too many Fall River Gas stockholders elect to receive cash. No
more than 50% of the aggregate consideration paid to all Fall River Gas
stockholders may consist of cash, including cash paid to Fall River Gas
stockholders in lieu of issuing them fractional shares of Southern Union
common stock. If the Fall River Gas stockholders' elections to receive cash
for their shares exceed this cash limitation, the amount of cash paid to each
Fall River Gas stockholder electing cash will be reduced proportionately.
Thus, if too many Fall River Gas stockholders elect to receive cash,
consequently exceeding the cash limitation, a combination of cash and Southern
Union common stock having a deemed value of $23.50 will be delivered to Fall
River Gas stockholders in exchange for each share they elected to be exchanged
for cash.
Each share of Fall River Gas common stock that Fall River Gas stockholders
elect to exchange for Southern Union common stock or do not elect to exchange
for cash (or cannot exchange for cash because too many Fall River Gas
stockholders have elected to exchange for cash as described above), will be
converted into the right to receive that number of whole shares of Southern
Union common stock having a value of $23.50. Southern Union will not issue any
fractional shares of its common stock in the merger. Instead, Fall River Gas
stockholders will get cash for any fractional shares of Southern Union common
stock they would otherwise receive.
Fall River Gas stockholders will be entitled to receive Southern Union common
stock in the merger if:
- they elect to receive Southern Union common stock;
- they elect to receive cash and the Fall River Gas stockholders
exceed the cash limitation;
- they do not indicate a preference as to the type of consideration
they want to receive; or
- they do not properly complete the form of election provided to them by the
company Southern Union has selected to be the paying agent in connection
with the merger.
The exact number of shares of Southern Union common stock a Fall River Gas
stockholder will receive for each share of Fall River Gas common stock that he
or she owns will depend on the average price of Southern Union common stock on
the New York Stock Exchange for the ten trading-day period beginning on the
twelfth trading day and ending on the third trading day before the closing of
the merger (counting from and including the trading day immediately before the
closing).
If the average price of Southern Union's common stock during this ten
trading-day period is:
- Above $19.6875, the number of shares of Southern Union common stock will
be fixed at 1.19365 for each share of Fall River Gas common stock.
- Between $16.875 and $19.6875, the number of shares of Southern Union
common stock will be adjusted so that each share of Fall River Gas' common
stock will be exchanged for Southern Union common stock having a value
equal to $23.50 divided by the average trading price during the period of
time described above.
- Below $16.875, but at least $15.00, the number of shares of Southern Union
common stock will be fixed at 1.39259 for each share of Fall River Gas
common stock.
- Below $15.00, Fall River Gas has the option to terminate the merger
agreement. If Fall River Gas does not terminate the merger agreement, each
Fall River Gas stockholder will receive 1.39259 shares of Southern Union
common stock per share of Fall River Gas common stock.
CERTAIN FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE FALL RIVER GAS MERGER
(SEE PAGE 33)
Southern Union's stockholders will not exchange or otherwise dispose of any
Southern Union common stock in the Fall River Gas merger, so they will
recognize no taxable gain or loss. The Fall River Gas merger will not result
in the recognition of gain or loss to Southern Union or Fall River Gas.
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INTERESTS OF FALL RIVER GAS OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS IN THE FALL RIVER GAS
MERGER (SEE PAGE 32)
Fall River Gas officers and the Fall River Gas board have interests in the
merger that may be different from, or in addition to, the interests of Fall
River Gas stockholders generally. These interests include employment
agreements. In addition, some Fall River Gas executives will become Southern
Union division executives after the merger.
The merger will constitute a "change in control" of Fall River Gas and this
will entitle certain Fall River Gas officers, in accordance with the terms of
their respective employment agreements, to receive lump sum severance benefits
if the officer is terminated without cause or terminates his or her own
employment within thirty-six months after the date the Fall River Gas merger
is completed. On October 4, 1999, these employment agreements were amended.
These amendments will become effective as of the date the Fall River Gas
merger is completed. These amendments provide for payment to Bradford J.
Faxon, Peter H. Thanas and John F. Fanning of $1,000,000, $700,000 and
$300,000, respectively. If Southern Union continues their employment with Fall
River Gas, these payments will be made in equal monthly installments over an
eighteen-month period beginning on the effective date of the merger. These
payments would be offset against any severance payments that may become owed
under any of these agreements.
For six years after the Fall River Gas merger, Southern Union has also agreed
to indemnify, and use its reasonable best efforts to provide liability
insurance for present and former officers and directors of Fall River Gas
against acts and omissions occurring before the merger under certain
circumstances.
REGULATORY APPROVALS FOR THE FALL RIVER GAS MERGER (SEE PAGE 34)
Certain approvals from the state regulatory commissions of Massachusetts,
Pennsylvania and Missouri, as well as the expiration or earlier termination of
the applicable waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust
Improvements Act of 1976 are required in order to complete the merger. On May
11, 2000, the Pennsylvania commission approved the Fall River Gas merger. On
June 28, 2000, the Missouri commission approved the Fall River Gas merger.
Authorization from the state regulatory commissions of Florida and
Pennsylvania for Southern Union to issue debt securities and/or common stock
sufficient to complete the Fall River Gas merger is also required. None of the
other required state approvals have been received as of the date of this proxy
statement. No Texas regulatory approvals are required in connection with the
merger.
Subsequent to the execution of the Fall River Gas merger agreement, the issue
arose as to whether Southern Union was required under Massachusetts law to
obtain the approval of the Fall River Gas transaction by holders of two-thirds
of the outstanding shares of Southern Union common stock in connection with
obtaining the approval of the Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications
and Energy of Southern Union's acquisition of Fall River Gas. In order to
eliminate any uncertainty concerning this issue and to facilitate the closing
of the transaction, Southern Union advised Fall River Gas and the
Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications and Energy that it intends to
seek, and through this proxy statement at the Southern Union special meeting
it is seeking, such stockholder approval.
Southern Union has advised Fall River Gas that George Lindemann, the Chairman
of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Southern Union, and members of his
immediate family have advised Southern Union that they intend to vote all of
the shares of Southern Union common stock that they beneficially own and are
entitled to vote in favor of the approval of the Fall River Gas merger
agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby. As of June 30, 2000,
those Lindemann family members beneficially owned and were entitled to vote
approximately 27% of the shares of Southern Union common stock then
outstanding.
Southern Union has advised Fall River Gas that each of Southern Union's
directors and executive officers has advised Southern Union that they intend
to vote their shares of Southern Union common stock in favor of the approval
of the Fall River Gas merger agreement and the transactions contemplated
thereby. As of June 30, 2000, those directors and executive officers (other
than the Lindemanns), beneficially owned and were entitled to vote
approximately 5% of the shares of Southern Union common stock then
outstanding. Together, Southern Union's directors, executive officers and the
Lindemanns represent a total of approximately 32% of the shares of Southern
Union common stock outstanding as of June 30, 2000.
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CONDITIONS TO THE COMPLETION OF THE FALL RIVER GAS MERGER (SEE PAGE 49)
Completion of the Fall River Gas merger depends on the satisfaction of certain
conditions, including:
- Obtaining the approval of two-thirds of the outstanding shares of Fall
River Gas common stock.
- All required governmental approvals obtained without material adverse
conditions. To facilitate obtaining the approval of the transaction by the
Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications and Energy, Southern Union
is seeking the approval of the transaction by holders of two-thirds of the
outstanding shares of Southern Union common stock.
- No court or administrative order issued to prevent the Fall River Gas
merger.
- Effectiveness of the registration statement in which the Fall River Gas
proxy statement is included.
- Listing on the NYSE of the Southern Union common stock being issued to
Fall River Gas stockholders in connection with the Fall River Gas merger.
- The receipt of certain third-party consents and approvals.
AMENDMENT OF THE FALL RIVER GAS MERGER AGREEMENT (SEE PAGE 50)
Southern Union and Fall River Gas may amend in writing the terms of the Fall
River Gas merger agreement.
TERMINATION OF THE FALL RIVER GAS MERGER AGREEMENT AND TERMINATION FEES AND
EXPENSES (SEE PAGE 50 AND PAGE 51)
Fall River Gas and Southern Union may terminate the Fall River Gas merger
agreement by mutual written consent without completing the Fall River Gas
merger. The Fall River Gas merger agreement may be terminated by either Fall
River Gas or Southern Union in the following instances:
- if less than two-thirds of the Fall River Gas stockholders vote to
approve the merger;
- if a court issues a non-appealable order that prohibits the
consummation of the merger;
- if the merger is not completed by October 15, 2000 (this date may be
extended to February 28, 2001 to obtain certain governmental approvals);
or
- if the other party breaches a warranty, covenant, agreement or
representation contained in the Fall River Gas merger agreement.
Fall River Gas may terminate the merger if the average trading price of
Southern Union common stock used to determine the number of shares of Southern
Union common stock to be received by Fall River Gas stockholders in the merger
is lower than $15.00.
Also, the merger agreement may be terminated by Fall River Gas if it signs an
agreement for a business combination with another party under certain
circumstances. Additionally, Southern Union may terminate the merger if: 1)
the Fall River Gas board or one of its committees withdraws or modifies its
approval or recommendation of approval of the merger agreement to the Fall
River Gas stockholders; or 2) if a third party or group acquires a majority of
Fall River Gas' shares. In any of these events, Fall River Gas may be required
to pay Southern Union a termination fee of $1.5 million.
ACCOUNTING TREATMENT FOR THE FALL RIVER GAS MERGER (SEE PAGE 34)
The Fall River Gas merger will be accounted for using the purchase method of
accounting in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
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COMPARATIVE PER SHARE COMMON STOCK MARKET PRICE INFORMATION (SEE PAGE 25)
Southern Union common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE").
Fall River Gas common stock is listed on the American Stock Exchange. On
October 4, 1999, the date of the Fall River Gas merger agreement, Southern
Union common stock closed at $18.69 and Fall River Gas common stock closed at
$21.00. On October 1, 1999, the last full trading day prior to the public
announcement of the merger, Southern Union common stock closed at $18.75 and
Fall River Gas common stock closed at $20.75. These Southern Union common
stock prices are actual historical trading prices on the stated dates and are
not restated to give effect to any stock dividends distributed.
LISTING OF SOUTHERN UNION COMMON STOCK (SEE PAGE 35)
Southern Union will list the shares of its common stock to be issued in the
Fall River Gas merger on the NYSE.
THE PROVENERGY MERGER
SUMMARY (SEE PAGE 52)
We are asking you to approve and adopt the merger agreement that provides for
the merger of ProvEnergy into Southern Union. Upon completion of the
transactions contemplated by the ProvEnergy merger agreement, ProvEnergy and
each of its two gas utility subsidiaries (Providence Gas, its Rhode Island
utility subsidiary and North Attleboro Gas, its Massachusetts utility
subsidiary) will be merged into Southern Union (together, the "ProvEnergy
merger") and its utility operations will operate as two divisions of Southern
Union with the Rhode Island operations in one division and the Massachusetts
operations in the other division. The ProvEnergy merger will become effective
following the approval of the ProvEnergy merger agreement by the shareholders
of ProvEnergy and the satisfaction or waiver of all other conditions to the
ProvEnergy merger agreement. On May 22, 2000, the shareholders of ProvEnergy
approved the ProvEnergy merger. At this time, conditions to be met include
certain approvals of the state regulatory commissions of Massachusetts and
Rhode Island with respect to certain of the mergers, and Pennsylvania and
Florida with respect to certain related financing matters. Regulatory
approvals required for the mergers have been received from the regulatory
commissions of Missouri and Pennsylvania.
The merger agreement between Southern Union and ProvEnergy is attached at the
back of this proxy statement as Appendix C. We encourage you to read the
ProvEnergy merger agreement since it is the legal document that governs the
ProvEnergy merger.
PROVENERGY MERGER CONSIDERATION (SEE PAGE 53)
When the merger of GUS (Southern Union's acquisition subsidiary) into
ProvEnergy is completed, each share of ProvEnergy common stock will be
cancelled and ProvEnergy shareholders will receive $42.50 in cash for each
share of ProvEnergy common stock they own.
CERTAIN FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE PROVENERGY MERGER (SEE PAGE 39)
Southern Union's stockholders will not exchange or otherwise dispose of any
Southern Union common stock in the ProvEnergy merger, so they will recognize
no taxable gain or loss. The ProvEnergy merger will not result in the
recognition of gain or loss to Southern Union or ProvEnergy.
INTERESTS OF PROVENERGY OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS IN THE PROVENERGY MERGER (SEE
PAGE 38)
Some ProvEnergy directors, officers and executives have interests in the
ProvEnergy merger that may be different from, or in addition to, the interests
of ProvEnergy shareholders generally. These interests include employment
agreements and stock options. In addition, some ProvEnergy executives will
become Southern Union directors or executives after the ProvEnergy merger.
These interests include:
- the Chief Executive Officer of ProvEnergy will be elected to the
board of directors of Southern Union,
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- Mr. James H. Dodge will serve as Chief Executive Officer and
President, and Mr. James DeMetro will serve as Executive Vice
President, Energy Services, of the ProvEnergy and North Attleboro
divisions of Southern Union and all other energy-related businesses
of Southern Union conducted in New England,
- each performance share issuable to employees under a ProvEnergy incentive
plan will be fully earned and converted into a right to receive $42.50 in
cash,
- all stock options will be deemed fully vested and will be converted into a
right to receive a cash payment, and
- Mr. James H. Dodge and Mr. James DeMetro will receive enhanced
compensation and other benefits.
For six years after the ProvEnergy merger, Southern Union has agreed to
indemnify and to use its reasonable best efforts to provide liability
insurance for present and former officers and directors of ProvEnergy against
acts and omissions occurring before the merger under certain circumstances.
REGULATORY APPROVALS FOR THE PROVENERGY MERGER (SEE PAGE 39)
Certain approvals from the state regulatory commissions of Massachusetts,
Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Missouri and Florida, and from the Federal Energy
Regulatory Commission, and the expiration or earlier termination of the
applicable waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements
Act of 1976, are required to complete the ProvEnergy merger. As of the date of
this proxy statement, the Pennsylvania and Missouri commissions' approval of
the ProvEnergy merger are the only required regulatory approvals for the
ProvEnergy merger that have been obtained.
Subsequent to the execution of the ProvEnergy merger agreement, the issue
arose as to whether Southern Union was required under Massachusetts law to
obtain the approval of the ProvEnergy transaction by holders of two-thirds of
the outstanding shares of Southern Union common stock in connection with
obtaining the approval by the Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications
and Energy of Southern Union's acquisition of North Attleboro Gas,
ProvEnergy's Massachusetts utility subsidiary. In order to eliminate any
uncertainty concerning this issue and to facilitate the closing of the
transaction, Southern Union advised ProvEnergy and the Massachusetts
Department of Telecommunications and Energy that it intends to seek, and
through this proxy statement at the Southern Union special meeting it is
seeking, such stockholder approval.
ProvEnergy has received a commitment and an irrevocable proxy from George
Lindemann, the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Southern
Union, and members of his immediate family to vote all of the shares of
Southern Union common stock that they beneficially own and are entitled to
vote in favor of the approval of the ProvEnergy merger agreement and the
transactions contemplated thereby. As of June 30, 2000, those Lindemann family
members beneficially owned and were entitled to vote approximately 27% of the
shares of Southern Union common stock then outstanding.
Southern Union has advised ProvEnergy that each of Southern Union's directors
and executive officers has advised Southern Union that they intend to vote the
shares of Southern Union common stock that they beneficially own and are
entitled to vote in favor of the approval of the ProvEnergy merger agreement
and the transactions contemplated thereby. As of June 30, 2000, those
directors and executive officers (other than the Lindemanns, who have signed
the proxy referred to above) beneficially owned and were entitled to vote
approximately 5% of the shares of Southern Union common stock then
outstanding. Together with the Lindemanns' proxy, this represents a total of
approximately 32% of the shares of Southern Union common stock outstanding as
of June 30, 2000.
CONDITIONS TO THE PROVENERGY MERGER (SEE PAGE 59)
Completion of the ProvEnergy merger depends on the satisfaction of certain
conditions, including the following:
- Obtaining required governmental approvals by final order in such form as
are not, and with no conditions that are, individually or in the
aggregate, reasonably likely to have a ProvEnergy material adverse effect
or a material adverse effect on the business, financial condition or
results of operations of Southern Union, or which would otherwise, in
Southern Union's reasonable determination, be unduly burdensome to
Southern Union in a manner that would, individually or in the aggregate,
be reasonably likely to have a ProvEnergy material adverse effect or a
material adverse effect on the business, financial condition or results
of operations of Southern Union. To facilitate obtaining the approval of
the transaction by the Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications and
Energy, Southern Union is
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seeking the approval of the transaction by holders of two-thirds of the
outstanding shares of Southern Union common stock.
- Obtaining the approval of holders of a majority of the outstanding shares
of ProvEnergy common stock, which was obtained on May 22, 2000.
- Obtaining the consent of holders of at least 80% in aggregate principal
amount of all First Mortgage Bonds of Providence Gas outstanding to each
of the amendments to the Providence Gas Indenture set forth on Schedule
6.1(n) to the ProvEnergy merger agreement.
- The redemption of all of the outstanding shares of Providence Gas
preferred stock, which was completed on March 1, 2000.
- The receipt of certain third party consents and approvals.
AMENDMENT OF THE PROVENERGY MERGER AGREEMENT (SEE PAGE 60)
Southern Union and ProvEnergy may amend in writing the terms of the ProvEnergy
merger agreement.
TERMINATION OF THE PROVENERGY MERGER AGREEMENT AND TERMINATION FEES
AND EXPENSES (SEE PAGE 60 AND PAGE 61)
The ProvEnergy merger agreement can be terminated at any time prior to the
closing:
- by mutual written consent of ProvEnergy and Southern Union,
- by either ProvEnergy or Southern Union if there is a non-appealable court
order prohibiting the consummation of the ProvEnergy merger,
- by either ProvEnergy or Southern Union if there is a breach by the other
party of any representation or warranty, which breach cannot be cured,
except for inaccuracies which would not be reasonably likely to result in
a material adverse effect,
- by ProvEnergy as a result of a superior proposal, provided ProvEnergy has
paid the termination fee,
- by either ProvEnergy or Southern Union if the approval of ProvEnergy
shareholders is not obtained (which approval was obtained on May 22,
2000),
- by Southern Union if the board of directors of ProvEnergy withdraws or
modifies the approval or recommendation of the board in favor of the
merger, approves or recommends (or proposes to do so) certain business
combinations, causes ProvEnergy to enter into a definitive agreement with
respect to certain business combinations, resolves to do any of the
foregoing or fails to redeem all of the outstanding shares of Providence
Gas preferred stock (which redemption was completed on March 1, 2000),
- by Southern Union if a third party or group acquires more than 50% of the
voting power of the outstanding voting securities of ProvEnergy, or
- by either ProvEnergy or Southern Union if the closing has not occurred by
November 15, 2000; provided, that if all conditions to closing have been
fulfilled except for approvals by any governmental body, then the
termination date will be extended until April 1, 2001.
ProvEnergy is required to pay Southern Union a $7.5 million termination fee in
cash if the ProvEnergy merger agreement is terminated under specified
circumstances after a third party makes a proposal to acquire ProvEnergy or if
a third party or group acquires more than 50% of the voting power of the
outstanding voting securities of ProvEnergy.
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ACCOUNTING TREATMENT FOR THE PROVENERGY MERGER (SEE PAGE 40)
The ProvEnergy merger will be accounted for using the purchase method of
accounting in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
MERGER-RELATED FINANCING
Southern Union's management is evaluating various sources and methods of
financing the amount necessary to finance the cash portion of the
consideration to be paid to Fall River Gas stockholders, the all cash
consideration to be paid to ProvEnergy shareholders, the all cash
consideration to be paid to Valley Resources stockholders, and all related
costs and refinancings anticipated in connection with these mergers. Southern
Union could require new financing of up to approximately $600 million to
complete the three pending mergers, if Fall River Gas stockholders choose to
receive the maximum of 50% of the aggregate merger consideration that may be
paid to Fall River Gas stockholders in cash and if all of the approximately
$140 million of existing long-term debt of all three companies being acquired
must be refinanced rather than amended and assumed as planned. Presently,
Southern Union anticipates funding these requirements with bank borrowings;
however, it does not yet have commitments (see page 41).
NO STATUTORY APPRAISAL RIGHTS
Holders of Southern Union common stock who do not vote in favor of the
proposal to approve the Fall River Gas and ProvEnergy mergers will not be
entitled to appraisal rights (see page 41).
RECOMMENDATION TO SOUTHERN UNION COMMON STOCKHOLDERS
The Southern Union board of directors believes that the Fall River Gas and
ProvEnergy mergers are in the best interest of Southern Union stockholders and
recommends that holders of Southern Union common stock vote "FOR" the proposal
to approve and adopt the Fall River Gas and ProvEnergy merger agreements. The
reasons for the board's recommendation are set forth on page 31 for Fall River
Gas and page 37 for ProvEnergy.
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SELECTED HISTORICAL AND PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION
The summary below sets forth selected historical financial and market data and
selected unaudited pro forma combined condensed financial data. The financial
data should be read in conjunction with the documents incorporated by
reference and the historical financial statements and the related notes of
Southern Union, Fall River Gas, ProvEnergy, PEI and Valley Resources
incorporated by reference, and in conjunction with the Unaudited Pro Forma
Combined Condensed Financial Statements and the related notes thereto included
under "Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Financial Statements."
SELECTED HISTORICAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF SOUTHERN UNION
The selected historical financial data of Southern Union have been derived
from the audited historical consolidated financial statements and related
notes of Southern Union for each of the years in the five-year period ended
June 30, 1999 and the unaudited consolidated financial statements for the nine
months ended March 31, 2000 and 1999. The historical data are only a summary,
and you should read them in conjunction with the historical financial
statements and related notes contained in the annual and quarterly reports for
Southern Union, which have been incorporated by reference in this proxy
statement. See "Where You Can Find More Information." Operating results for
the nine months ended March 31, 2000 are not necessarily indicative of the
results that may be expected for the entire fiscal year ending June 30, 2000.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NINE MONTHS ENDED
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, MARCH 31,
-------------------------------------------------------------- -----------------------
1999(a)(b) 1998(a)(b) 1997(a) 1996(a) 1995 2000(c) 1999
----------- ------------ ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Total operating revenues ............. $ 605,231 $ 669,304 $ 717,031 $ 620,391 $ 479,983 $ 669,170 $ 503,543
Earnings from continuing
operations (d) .................... 10,445 12,229 19,032 20,839 16,069 20,547 15,950
Diluted earnings per share (e) ....... 0.31 0.37 0.59 0.65 0.51 0.47 0.47
Total assets ......................... 1,087,348 1,047,764 990,403 964,460 992,597 1,864,971 1,112,825
Common stockholders' equity .......... 301,058 296,834 267,462 245,915 225,664 630,953 312,904
Short-term debt and capital
lease obligation .................. 2,066 1,777 687 615 770 2,169 2,033
Long-term debt and capital lease obli-
gation, excluding current portion . 390,931 406,407 386,157 385,394 462,503 734,320 411,460
Company-obligated mandatorily
redeemable preferred securities
of subsidiary trust ............... 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000
Average customers served ............. 998,476 979,186 955,838 952,934 947,691 1,101,585 996,052
</TABLE>
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(a) Certain Texas and Oklahoma Panhandle distribution operations and Western
Gas Interstate, a former subsidiary of Southern Union, exclusive of the
Del Norte interconnect, were sold on May 1, 1996.
(b) On December 31, 1997, Southern Union acquired Atlantic Utilities
Corporation and Subsidiaries for 755,650 pre-split and pre-stock dividend
shares of common stock valued at $18,041,000 and cash of $4,436,000.
(c) PEI was acquired on November 4, 1999 and was accounted for as a
purchase. PEI's assets are included in the Company's
consolidated balance sheet at March 31, 2000 and its results of
operations have been included in the Company's consolidated
results of operations since November 4, 1999. For these reasons,
the consolidated results of operations of the company for the
periods subsequent to the acquisition are not comparable to the
same periods in prior years.
(d) As of June 30, 1998, Missouri Gas Energy (a division of Southern Union)
wrote off $8,163,000 pre-tax in previously recorded regulatory assets as a
result of announced rate orders and court rulings.
(e) Earnings per share for all periods presented were computed based on the
weighted average number of shares of common stock and common stock
equivalents outstanding during the year adjusted for (i) the 5% stock
dividends distributed on June 30, 2000, August 6, 1999, December 9, 1998,
December 10, 1997, December 10, 1996 and November 27, 1995, and (ii) the
50% stock dividend distributed on July 13, 1998 and the 33 1/3% stock
dividend distributed on March 11, 1996.
16
<PAGE>
SELECTED HISTORICAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF FALL RIVER
GAS
The selected historical financial data of Fall River Gas have been derived
from the audited historical consolidated financial statements and related
notes of Fall River Gas for each of the years in the five-year period ended
September 30, 1999 and the unaudited consolidated financial statements for the
six months ended March 31, 2000 and 1999. The historical data are only a
summary, and you should read them in conjunction with the historical financial
statements and related notes contained in the annual and quarterly reports for
Fall River Gas, which have been incorporated by reference in this proxy
statement. See "Where You Can Find More Information." Operating results for
the six months ended March 31, 2000 are not necessarily indicative of the
results that may be expected for the entire fiscal year ending September 30,
2000.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIX MONTHS ENDED
FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, MARCH 31,
----------------------------------------------- -----------------
1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 2000 1999
------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- -------
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
INCOME STATEMENT DATA:
Gas operating revenues ........... $42,081 $42,671 $45,261 $48,966 $44,418 $31,005 $30,755
Operating expenses ............... 39,365 39,693 42,400 46,624 42,112 28,793 28,311
Operating income ................. 2,716 2,978 2,861 2,342 2,306 2,212 2,444
Net income ....................... 2,100 2,080 1,625 1,424 1,617 1,732 2,084
COMMON STOCK
INFORMATION:
Weighted average number of
shares outstanding in thousands. 2,197 2,146 1,785 1,781 1,781 2,214 2,194
Earnings per share of common
stock .......................... 0.96 0.97 0.91 0.80 0.91 0.78 0.95
Cash dividends per share of
common stock ................... 0.96 0.96 0.96 0.96 0.96 0.48 0.48
CAPITALIZATION AT END
OF PERIOD:
Common shareholders'
investment ..................... 17,584 17,430 12,618 12,637 12,922 19,369 19,076
Long-term debt ................... 19,500 19,500 13,500 13,500 6,500 19,500 19,500
Total capitalization ............. 37,084 36,930 26,118 26,137 19,422 38,869 38,576
TOTAL ASSETS AT END
OF PERIOD: ....................... 55,683 55,639 54,935 53,191 50,957 59,172 56,511
</TABLE>
17
<PAGE>
SELECTED HISTORICAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF PROVENERGY
The selected historical financial data of ProvEnergy have been derived from
the audited historical consolidated financial statements and related notes of
ProvEnergy for each of the years in the five-year period ended September 30,
1999 and the unaudited consolidated finan-cial statements for the six months
ended March 31, 2000 and 1999. The historical data are only a summary, and you
should read them in conjunction with the historical financial statements and
related notes contained in the annual and quarterly reports for ProvEnergy,
which have been incorporated by reference in this proxy statement. See "Where
You Can Find More Information." Operating results for the six months ended
March 31, 2000 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be
expected for the entire fiscal year ending September 30, 2000.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIX MONTHS ENDED
FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, MARCH 31,
---------------------------------------------------- -------------------
1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 2000 1999
-------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ---------
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
INCOME STATEMENT DATA:
Energy revenues ............... $225,029 $222,112 $220,420 $215,152 $183,992 $181,367 $158,435
Operating expenses ............ 204,139 203,450 199,750 194,283 167,551 155,528 132,326
Operating income .............. 20,890 18,662 20,670 20,869 16,441 25,839 26,109
Net income .................... 8,425 6,442 7,831 8,970 6,127 12,122 14,340
COMMON STOCK
INFORMATION:
Weighted basic average number
of shares outstanding in
thousands ................... 6,016 5,920 5,790 5,709 5,624 6,132 5,985
Basic earnings per share of
common stock ................ 1.40 1.09 1.35 1.57 1.09 1.98 2.40
Weighted diluted average number
of shares outstanding in
thousands ................... 6,034 5,930 5,794 5,712 5,625 6,193 5,996
Diluted earnings per share
of common stock ............. 1.40 1.09 1.35 1.57 1.09 1.96 2.39
Cash dividends per share of
common stock ................ 1.08 1.08 1.08 1.08 1.08 0.54 0.54
CAPITALIZATION AT END
OF PERIOD:
Common shareholders'
investment .................. 93,107 88,277 85,661 82,565 78,524 103,238 100,030
Long-term debt ................ 91,321 80,155 72,372 72,456 74,482 88,452 93,061
Total capitalization .......... 187,628 173,232 164,433 163,021 161,006 191,690 196,291
TOTAL ASSETS AT END
OF PERIOD: .................... 298,033 253,388 255,510 250,150 227,127 354,711 305,560
</TABLE>
SELECTED UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED CONDENSED FINANCIAL DATA
The following selected unaudited pro forma combined condensed financial data
presents the combined financial data of Southern Union, Fall River Gas, PEI,
ProvEnergy and Valley Resources including their respective subsidiaries, after
giving effect to Southern Union's merger with each of them. The PEI merger,
completed on November 4, 1999, was, and the Fall River Gas, ProvEnergy and
Valley Resources mergers will be, accounted for as a purchase. The unaudited
pro forma combined condensed financial data also give effect to Southern
Union's issuance of $300 million of senior notes that was completed on
November 3, 1999, in anticipation of the PEI merger, prospective financing for
the pending acquisitions by merger of Fall River Gas, ProvEnergy and Valley
Resources, and the assumpton of certain debt of the acquired companies. All of
these transactions are assumed to be effective for the period indicated in the
following selected unaudited pro forma combined condensed financial data (see
"Recent Developments").
18
<PAGE>
The selected unaudited pro forma combined condensed financial data as of and
for the year ended June 30, 1999, and as of and for the nine months ended
March 31, 2000, were derived from and should be read in conjunction with the
Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Balance Sheet and the Unaudited Pro
Forma Combined Condensed Statement of Operations, including the notes thereto,
which are included in this proxy statement on pages 64 to 70, and other
filings with the SEC by each of Southern Union, PEI, Fall River Gas,
ProvEnergy and Valley Resources. The selected unaudited pro forma combined
condensed financial data should also be read in conjunction with the
historical financial statements and related notes of Southern Union, PEI, Fall
River Gas, ProvEnergy and Valley Resources which are incorporated by reference
(see "Where You Can Find More Information") and are available in the
respective reports these companies have filed with the SEC.
The selected unaudited pro forma combined condensed financial data is
presented for purposes of illustration only in accordance with the assumptions
stated in the notes to the financial information set forth below and is not
necessarily indicative of the operating results or the financial position that
would have occurred if the PEI, Fall River Gas, ProvEnergy and Valley
Resources mergers had all been consummated by the beginning of the period
presented nor is it necessarily indicative of the future operating results or
financial position of the combined enterprise. The selected unaudited pro
forma combined condensed financial data does not contain any adjustments to
reflect cost savings or other synergies that may be a result of the PEI, Fall
River Gas, ProvEnergy and Valley Resources mergers.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NINE MONTHS
YEAR ENDED ENDED
JUNE 30, 1999 MARCH 31, 2000
------------- --------------
(DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S> <C> <C>
Total operating revenues .................................................... $1,185,700 $ 1,024,386
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations (a)(b)(c)......................... (9,768) (2,417)
Diluted earnings (loss) per share (d)(e) .................................... (0.19) (0.05)
Total assets .......................................................................................... 2,682,555
Common stockholders' equity (e) ....................................................................... 656,972
Short-term debt and capital lease obligation (b)(f) ................................................... 6,315
Long-term debt and capital lease obligation, excluding current portion (b) ........................... 1,304,523
Company-obligated mandatorily redeemable preferred securities of subsidiary trust (b) ................. 100,000
</TABLE>
(a) Southern Union incurred pre-tax costs associated with various acquisition
efforts unrelated to the Fall River Gas, PEI, ProvEnergy and Valley
Resources mergers, and litigation costs associated with an unsuccessful
acquisition, of $3,839,000 and $6,664,000 for the year ended June 30, 1999
and the nine-months ended March 31, 2000, respectively.
(b) Funding for the Fall River Gas, ProvEnergy and Valley Resources mergers is
assumed to be provided by bank borrowings at an estimated annual interest
rate of 7.60%. This rate is what Southern Union believes would be obtained
based on current market rates. These proceeds are assumed to be utilized:
to finance the cash portion of the Fall River Gas, ProvEnergy and Valley
Resources mergers and the settlement of any respective stock options; and
to pay a total of approximately $9 million of various professional fees
and change of control agreements expected to be incurred in connection
with the three pending acquisitions. Additionally, long-term debt of $300
million at an annual interest rate of 8.25% was issued on November 3, 1999
in connection with the PEI merger.
(c) In anticipation of the pending and completed acquisitions, the
outstanding PEI and ProvEnergy preferred stock was repurchased prior to
closing of the related merger.
(d) Earnings (loss) per share for both periods presented were computed based
on the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding
during the period adjusted for the Southern Union 5% stock dividends
distributed on June 30, 2000, August 6, 1999 and December 9, 1998, and the
50% stock dividend distributed on July 13, 1998.
(e) The March 31, 2000 information reflects an estimated issuance of Southern
Union common stock to Fall River Gas stockholder s at an exchange ratio of
1.39259 based on an average trading price of $15.7954 for Southern Union
common stock at the average closing price per share for the ten trading
day period ending on the third trading day before June 30, 2000, and
assuming that half the Fall River Gas shares are not exchanged but paid
for in cash.
(f) Represents historical short-term debt and capital lease obligation of
Southern Union, Fall River Gas, ProvEnergy and Valley Resources.
19
<PAGE>
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS MAY PROVE INACCURATE
Southern Union has made forward-looking statements in this document (and in
documents that we have incorporated by reference) that are subject to risks
and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements include the information
concerning possible or assumed future results of operations of Southern Union,
Fall River Gas, ProvEnergy and Valley Resources. Also, when we use words such
as "believes," "expects," "anticipates," "intends," or similar expressions, we
are making forward-looking statements. You should note that many factors, some
of which are discussed elsewhere in this document and in the documents that we
incorporate by reference, could affect the future financial results of
Southern Union, Fall River Gas, ProvEnergy and Valley Resources and could
cause those results to differ materially from those expressed in our
forward-looking statements contained or incorporated by reference in this
document. The factors that could cause actual results to differ materially
from those indicated by such forward-looking statements include the following:
- general economic, financial and business conditions;
- effectiveness of hedging strategies;
- competition in the energy services sector;
- the availability of natural gas and oil;
- development and operating costs;
- the success and costs of advertising and promotional efforts;
- the availability and terms of capital;
- unanticipated environmental liabilities;
- the impacts of unusual items resulting from ongoing evaluations of
business strategies and asset valuations;
- changes in business strategy;
- the timing and extent of changes in commodity prices;
- gas sales volumes;
- weather conditions and other natural phenomena in our service
territories;
- the purchase and implementation of new technologies for enhancing
customer service and/or operating efficiencies;
- impact of relations with labor unions of bargaining-unit employees;
- the receipt of timely and adequate rate relief;
- the outcome of pending and future litigation;
- governmental regulations and proceedings affecting the companies,
including the restructuring of the natural gas industry in Massachusetts,
Rhode Island, Texas, Missouri, Pennsylvania, and Florida;
- the nature and impact of any extraordinary transaction such as any
acquisition or divestiture of a business unit or any assets;
- the risk that the businesses of PEI, Fall River Gas, ProvEnergy, Valley
Resources and any other businesses or investments that Southern Union has
acquired or may acquire may not be successfully integrated with the
businesses of Southern Union.
20
<PAGE>
This list provides only an example of some of the risks, uncertainties and
assumptions that may affect forward-looking statements. If any of these risks
or uncertainties materialize or fail to materialize, as applicable, or if the
underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may differ materially
from those projected in the forward-looking statements.
The nature and impact of any extraordinary transactions such as any
acquisition or divestiture of a business unit or any assets may also cause
actual results to differ materially from estimates or projections contained in
forward-looking statements. Southern Union's strategic plan is to increase the
scale of its operations and the size of its customer base by pursuing and
completing future business combination transactions. Acquisitions may require
substantial additional financial expenditures that will need to be financed
through cash flow from operations or future debt and equity offerings. The
availability and terms of any such financing sources will depend upon various
factors and conditions such as Southern Union's cash flow and earnings, its
resulting capital structure, credit ratings and conditions in financial
capital markets at the time of any such offering. Any future acquisitions and
related financing arrangements or debt assumptions would likely increase its
aggregate indebtedness, and may increase the portion of its total
capitalization represented by debt. Acquisitions and financings will also
affect Southern Union's results due to factors such as its ability to realize
any anticipated benefits from such transactions, successful integration of new
and different operations and businesses, effects of different regional
economic and weather conditions, and the extent of any related debt financing.
Other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from
estimates and projections contained in forward-looking statements are
described in the documents that have been incorporated by reference into this
document. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements,
which speak only as of the date of this proxy statement, or, in the case of
documents incorporated by reference, the dates of those documents.
21
<PAGE>
COMPARATIVE DIVIDENDS AND MARKET PRICES
SOUTHERN UNION
Southern Union common stock is listed and principally traded on the NYSE under
the symbol "SUG." The table below lists the high and low sales prices
(adjusted for any stock dividends and stock splits) of Southern Union common
stock for the calendar periods indicated as reported in THE WALL STREET
JOURNAL as New York Stock Exchange Composite Transactions. The last day of
Southern Union's fiscal year is June 30. Southern Union does not pay its
stockholders a cash dividend. For the last seven years, Southern Union has
distributed an annual 5% stock dividend, and it expects to continue to
distribute an annual 5% stock dividend that can be sold through its Dividend
Sale Plan.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRICE RANGE
-------------------------------
HIGH LOW
---------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
1997
----
First quarter $ 13.36 $ 11.65
Second quarter 13.85 12.06
Third quarter 13.44 11.93
Fourth quarter 14.87 12.48
1998
----
First quarter $ 14.26 $ 13.18
Second quarter 18.79 13.74
Third quarter 19.33 13.50
Fourth quarter 22.22 16.79
1999
----
First quarter $ 22.10 $ 15.76
Second quarter 20.75 16.78
Third quarter 20.66 17.14
Fourth quarter 20.00 16.61
2000
----
First quarter $ 18.15 $ 12.62
Second quarter 17.26 14.41
</TABLE>
22
<PAGE>
FALL RIVER GAS
Fall River Gas common stock is listed and principally traded on the American
Stock Exchange under the symbol "FAL." Prior to October 31, 1997, Fall River
Gas common stock was traded in the over-the-counter market on the OTC Bulletin
Board and quoted under the symbol "FALL." The table below lists the high and
low sales price of and the dividends declared on Fall River Gas common stock
for the calendar periods indicated as reported in THE WALL STREET JOURNAL as
American Stock Exchange Composite Transactions and prior to October 1997 as
reported by the National Quotation Bureau. The last day of Fall River Gas'
fiscal year is September 30.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRICE RANGE
-------------------
HIGH LOW CASH DIVIDENDS
-------- ------- --------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
1997
----
First quarter $ 17.00 $ 16.00 $ 0.24
Second quarter 16.38 12.50 0.24
Third quarter 14.00 12.75 0.24
Fourth quarter 16.63 13.00 0.24
1998
----
First quarter 17.25 14.88 0.24
Second quarter 16.75 14.25 0.24
Third quarter 16.38 14.38 0.24
Fourth quarter 17.50 15.00 0.24
1999
----
First quarter 18.25 16.88 0.24
Second quarter 19.88 17.13 0.24
Third quarter 22.00 18.75 0.24
Fourth quarter 21.94 20.13 0.24
2000
----
First quarter 21.88 19.13 0.24
Second quarter 22.69 20.50 0.24
</TABLE>
23
<PAGE>
PROVENERGY
ProvEnergy's common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the
symbol "PVY." The table below lists the high and low sales prices of and
dividends declared on ProvEnergy common stock for the calendar periods
indicated as reported on the New York Stock Exchange Composite Transactions
Tape, and the dividends declared on the stock. The last day of ProvEnergy's
fiscal year is September 30.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRICE RANGE
-------------------
HIGH LOW CASH DIVIDENDS
------- ------- --------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
1998
----
First quarter $ 21.25 $ 20.50 $ 0.27
Second quarter 21.38 19.50 0.27
Third quarter 21.56 19.19 0.27
Fourth quarter 21.50 19.69 0.27
1999
----
First quarter 22.44 18.38 0.27
Second quarter 27.00 18.00 0.27
Third quarter 30.13 26.06 0.27
Fourth quarter 38.50 27.25 0.27
2000
----
First quarter 38.00 35.88 0.27
Second quarter 42.13 38.00 0.27
</TABLE>
HISTORICAL EQUIVALENT PER SHARE MARKET VALUES
The following table lists the market value of Southern Union common stock (on
an historical basis) and the market value of Fall River Gas common stock (on
an historical and equivalent per share basis): as of July 23, 1999, the day
the executive committee of the board of directors of Fall River Gas authorized
Fall River Gas' representatives to negotiate a merger agreement with Southern
Union based on its indication of interest; as of October 1, 1999, the last
business day preceding the day when Southern Union and Fall River Gas' entered
into the Fall River Gas merger agreement; and as of June 30, 2000, the day
used to determine the estimated exchange ratio used in the Unaudited Pro Forma
Combined Condensed Financial Statements. The equivalent per share values were
based on an exchange ratio valuing Southern Union common stock at the average
closing price per share for the ten trading day period ending on the third
trading day before each respective date.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SOUTHERN UNION FALL RIVER GAS EQUIVALENT
------------------------------- ---------------------------- PER SHARE
DATE HIGH LOW CLOSING HIGH LOW CLOSING VALUE
------------------ ------ ------ ------- ---- ------ ------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
July 23, 1999 $20.50 $20.13 $20.50 $21.00 $20.50 $20.50 $24.15
October 1, 1999 19.00 18.69 18.75 20.86 20.75 20.75 23.32
June 30, 2000 17.13 15.75 15.81 22.25 22.00 22.00 22.02
</TABLE>
24
<PAGE>
The following table presents trading information for ProvEnergy common stock
on November 12, 1999 and June 30, 2000. November 12, 1999 was the last full
trading day before our announcement of the signing of the ProvEnergy merger
agreement. June 30, 2000 was the last practicable trading day for which
information was available before the date of this document.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVENERGY
---------------------------
HIGH LOW CLOSING
------ ------ -------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
November 12, 1999..................................................... $32.88 $32.00 $32.88
June 30, 2000......................................................... 42.00 40.50 40.50
</TABLE>
YOU ARE ENCOURAGED TO OBTAIN CURRENT MARKET QUOTATIONS FOR SOUTHERN UNION
COMMON STOCK, FALL RIVER GAS COMMON STOCK AND PROVENERGY COMMON STOCK.
COMPARATIVE PER SHARE DATA
The following tables list certain unaudited historical per share data of
Southern Union and Fall River Gas and the combined per share data on an
unaudited pro forma basis after giving effect to the PEI, Fall River Gas,
ProvEnergy and Valley Resources mergers assuming the mergers had been in
effect for the period indicated, using the purchase method of accounting for
business combinations and assuming an exchange ratio of 1.39259 shares of
Southern Union common stock for each share of Fall River Gas common stock
based on an average trading price of $15.7954 for Southern Union common stock,
which is the average closing price per share for the ten trading day period
ending on the third trading day before June 30, 2000. This data should be read
in conjunction with the selected financial data and the Unaudited Pro Forma
Combined Condensed Financial Statements and notes thereto included elsewhere
in this proxy statement and the separate historical financial statements of
Southern Union, PEI, Fall River Gas, ProvEnergy and Valley Resources
incorporated in this proxy statement by reference including by reference to a
Southern Union Current Report on Form 8-K. The unaudited pro forma combined
financial data is not necessarily indicative of the operating results or
financial position that would have occurred if the mergers had been
consummated as of the beginning of the periods presented, nor are they
necessarily indicative of the future operating results or financial position
of the combined company.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NINE MONTHS
YEAR ENDED ENDED
JUNE 30, 1999 MARCH 31, 2000
------------- --------------
<S> <C> <C>
SOUTHERN UNION -- HISTORICAL
Earnings per common share:
Basic............................................................................ $ 0.32 $ 0.49
Diluted.......................................................................... 0.31 0.47
Cash dividends declared per share(a) ................................................. -- --
Book value per share at period end ................................................... 9.36 13.06
FALL RIVER GAS - HISTORICAL
Earnings per common share:
Basic............................................................................ $ 0.93 $ 0.71
Diluted.......................................................................... 0.93 0.71
Cash dividends declared per share .................................................... 0.96 0.72
Book value per share at period end ................................................... 8.29 8.74
</TABLE>
------------------------
(a) Southern Union distributes an annual 5% stock dividend.
25
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NINE MONTHS
YEAR ENDED ENDED
JUNE 30, 1999 MARCH 31, 2000
------------- --------------
<S> <C> <C>
SOUTHERN UNION - PRO FORMA (b)
Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic............................................................................ $ (0.19) $ (0.05)
Diluted.......................................................................... (0.19) (0.05)
Cash dividends declared per share(a) ................................................. -- --
Book value per share at period end ................................................... 12.81 11.55
FALL RIVER GAS - EQUIVALENT PRO FORMA
Per share data imputed to existing stockholders(c)(d)
Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic............................................................................ $ (0.27) $ (0.07)
Diluted.......................................................................... (0.27) (0.07)
Cash dividends declared per share .................................................... -- --
Book value per share at period end ................................................... 17.83 16.08
</TABLE>
--------------------------
(a) Southern Union distributes an annual 5% stock dividend.
(b) See "Selected Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Financial Data."
(c) Equivalent pro forma share data are calculated by multiplying the
respective unaudited pro forma combined data by an assumed exchange ratio
of 1.39259 shares of Southern Union common stock for each share of Fall
River Gas common stock. The assumed exchange ratio is based on an average
trading price of $15.7954 for Southern Union common stock, which is the
average closing price per share for the ten trading day period ending on
the third trading day before June 30, 2000.
(d) Pro forma combined cash dividends declared per share represents the
historical stock (not cash) dividend policy of Southern Union for all
periods presented.
26
<PAGE>
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
In addition to the Fall River Gas and ProvEnergy mergers, Southern Union
recently has completed or agreed to the significant acquisitions described
below.
MERGER WITH PENNSYLVANIA ENTERPRISES, INC. Effective November 4, 1999, Southern
Union acquired PEI and its subsidiaries for approximately 17 million shares of
Southern Union common stock and approximately $36 million in cash plus the
assumption of approximately $150 million in debt. PEI's natural gas utility
businesses are being operated as the PG Energy and Honesdale Gas divisions of
Southern Union, which provide service to approximately 154,000 natural gas
customers in northeastern and central Pennsylvania (including the cities of
Wilkes-Barre, Scranton and Williamsport). Through PG Energy Services, Inc., a
PEI subsidiary that Southern Union acquired in the PEI merger, Southern Union
markets electricity and other products and services under the name PG Energy
Power Plus, principally in northeastern and central Pennsylvania. Other
subsidiaries that Southern Union acquired in the PEI merger include PEI Power
Corporation, Keystone Pipeline Services, Inc. (itself a wholly owned subsidiary
of PG Energy Services, Inc.) and Theta Land Corporation. PEI Power Corporation,
an exempt wholesale generator (within the meaning of the Public Utility Holding
Company Act of 1935), generates and sells electricity. Keystone Pipeline
Services, Inc. is engaged primarily in the construction, maintenance and
rehabilitation of natural gas distribution pipelines. Theta Land Corporation
engages in the sale of property for residential and commercial development and
was sold for $12.1 million in January 2000.
MERGER WITH VALLEY RESOURCES, INC. On November 30, 1999, Southern Union, SUG
Acquisition Corporation a Rhode Island corporation and wholly-owned subsidiary
of Southern Union, and Valley Resources (AMEX: "VR") entered into a definitive
merger agreement. The agreement calls for Valley Resources to merge into
Southern Union in a transaction valued at approximately $160 million, including
the assumption of debt. Valley Resources shareholders will receive $25.00 in
cash for each of the approximately 4.98 million shares of Valley Resources
common stock outstanding. Valley Resources, headquartered in Cumberland, Rhode
Island, provides natural gas utility service to more than 64,000 customers
through its subsidiaries, Valley Gas Company and Bristol & Warren Gas Company.
Valley Gas Company's service area covers a 92 square mile area in the Blackstone
Valley Region located in the northeastern portion of Rhode Island that has a
population of approximately 250,000. Bristol & Warren Gas Company's service area
covers approximately 15 square miles in the eastern portion of Rhode Island that
has a population of approximately 35,000. Other Valley Resources subsidiaries
rent and sell gas appliances, sell liquid propane in Rhode Island and nearby
Massachusetts, and distribute as a wholesaler franchised lines to plumbing and
heating contractors. Valley Resources also has a 90% interest in Alternate
Energy Corporation, which sells, installs and designs natural gas conversion
systems and facilities, is an authorized representative of the ONSI fuel cell,
holds patents for a natural gas/diesel co-firing system and for a device to
control the flow of fuel on dual-fuel equipment. Valley Resources shareholders
approved the Valley Resources merger at their special meeting on June 13, 2000.
Southern Union anticipates completing the Valley Resources merger in September
2000 once all remaining conditions are satisfied, including receipt of all
regulatory approvals for the Valley Resources merger.
27
<PAGE>
THE SOUTHERN UNION SPECIAL MEETING
PURPOSE, TIME AND PLACE
The special meeting will be held in Southern Union's offices at Lavaca Plaza,
504 Lavaca Street, Austin, Texas on August 29, 2000, at 2:00 p.m. (Central
Time), for the following purposes:
(1) To approve and adopt the Fall River Gas and ProvEnergy merger
agreements;
(2) To transact such other business as may properly come before the
meeting or any adjournment thereof.
RECORD DATE; VOTING POWER; VOTE REQUIRED
The Southern Union board has fixed the close of business on July 3, 2000 as the
record date for the determination of holders of Southern Union common stock
entitled to notice of and to vote at the special meeting. Southern Union common
stock, of which there were 49,509,738 shares outstanding and entitled to vote on
July 3, 2000, is the only class of securities of Southern Union entitled to vote
at the special meeting. A majority of the shares of Southern Union common stock
issued and outstanding and entitled to vote on the record date must be present
in person or by proxy at the special meeting or voted by telephone in order for
a quorum to be present for purposes of transacting business at the special
meeting.
In the event that a quorum is not present at the special meeting, it is expected
that the meeting will be adjourned or postponed to solicit additional proxies.
Holders of Southern Union common stock as of the record date are each entitled
to one vote per share on the approval and adoption of the merger agreement at
the special meeting. The approval and adoption requires the affirmative vote of
at least two-thirds of the shares of Southern Union common stock outstanding on
the record date. The Southern Union board recommends that Southern Union
stockholders vote "FOR" the proposal to approve and adopt the Fall River Gas and
ProvEnergy merger agreements.
SHARE OWNERSHIP OF MANAGEMENT; MANAGEMENT VOTE; VOTING AGREEMENTS
ProvEnergy has received commitments and irrevocable proxies from George
Lindemann, the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Southern
Union, and members of his immediate family to vote all of the shares of Southern
Union common stock that they beneficially own and are entitled to vote in favor
of the approval of the ProvEnergy merger agreement and the transactions
contemplated thereby. Southern Union has advised Fall River Gas that George
Lindemann, the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Southern
Union, and members of his immediate family have advised Southern Union that they
intend to vote all of the shares of Southern Union common stock that they
beneficially own and are entitled to vote in favor of the approval of the Fall
River Gas merger agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby. As of June
30, 2000, those Lindemann family members beneficially owned and were entitled to
vote approximately 27% of the shares of Southern Union common stock then
outstanding. See "Principal Stockholders -- Beneficial Owners of More Than 5% of
Southern Union's Outstanding Common Stock" for more information.
As of the close of business on June 30, 2000, directors and executive officers
of Southern Union (other than members of the Lindemann family) beneficially
owned and were entitled to vote shares of Southern Union common stock, which
represented approximately 5% of the shares of Southern Union common stock
outstanding on that date. Each of them has indicated his or her present
intention to vote, or cause to be voted, the Southern Union common stock owned
by him or her "FOR" the proposal to approve and adopt the merger agreements at
the special meeting. Together with the Lindemanns' proxy, this represents
approximately 32% of the shares outstanding as of June 30, 2000. See "Principal
Stockholders -- Southern Union Management Ownership" for additional information.
VOTING OF PROXIES
All holders of Southern Union common stock who are entitled to vote and are
represented at the special meeting by properly executed proxies received prior
to or at such meeting and not duly and timely revoked will have their shares
voted at the meeting in accordance with the instructions indicated on the
proxies. If no instructions are indicated, the proxies will be voted "FOR" the
proposal to approve and adopt the Fall River Gas and ProvEnergy merger
agreements.
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If any other matters are properly presented at the special meeting for
consideration, the persons named in the enclosed form of proxy, and acting
thereunder, will have discretion to vote on such matters in accordance with
their best judgment (unless authorization to use such discretion is withheld).
Southern Union is not aware of any matters expected to be presented at the
special meeting other than as described in the Notice of Special Meeting.
REVOCABILITY OF PROXIES
Delaware law provides that a proxy, unless coupled with an interest (for
example, a vote pooling or similar arrangement among holders of Southern Union
common stock, or between Southern Union and holders of Southern Union common
stock, or an unrevoked proxy in favor of an existing or potential creditor of a
holder of Southern Union common stock), is revocable at will by a holder of
Southern Union common stock, notwithstanding any other agreement or provision in
the proxy to the contrary. A holder of Southern Union common stock may revoke a
proxy by giving written notice of revocation to the clerk of Southern Union at
Southern Union's address set forth on page 6 of this proxy statement at any time
before the proxy is voted. Such revocation will be effective upon receipt of the
written notice by the Corporate Secretary of Southern Union.
SOLICITATION OF PROXIES
Southern Union will bear the costs of this solicitation of proxies. In addition
to solicitation by mail, arrangements may be made with brokerage houses and
other custodians, nominees and fiduciaries to send material to their principals,
and Southern Union may reimburse them for their expenses in so doing. To the
extent necessary in order to ensure a sufficient presence of holders of Southern
Union common stock to constitute a quorum, officers and other employees of
Southern Union or designated agents may, without additional remuneration, in
person or by telephone or telegram, request the return of proxies. In addition,
Southern Union has retained InnisFree M&A Incorporated ("InnisFree") for
assistance in the solicitation of proxies. For its services, InnisFree will
receive a fee estimated at $10,000 plus reimbursement for reasonable and
customary out-of-pocket expenses.
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THE FALL RIVER GAS MERGER
THIS SECTION OF THE PROXY STATEMENT, AS WELL AS THE SECTION ENTITLED "THE FALL
RIVER GAS MERGER AGREEMENT," DESCRIBES CERTAIN ASPECTS OF THE PROPOSED MERGER
WITH FALL RIVER GAS. THESE SECTIONS HIGHLIGHT KEY INFORMATION ABOUT THE MERGER
AND THE MERGER AGREEMENT, BUT THEY MAY NOT INCLUDE ALL THE INFORMATION THAT YOU
WOULD LIKE TO KNOW. THE MERGER AGREEMENT BETWEEN FALL RIVER GAS AND SOUTHERN
UNION IS ATTACHED AS APPENDIX A TO THIS PROXY STATEMENT. WE URGE YOU TO READ THE
MERGER AGREEMENT IN ITS ENTIRETY.
SOUTHERN UNION BACKGROUND OF THE FALL RIVER GAS MERGER
For the past several years, Southern Union has pursued acquisition and business
combination opportunities. After the announcement of its merger agreement with
PEI, Southern Union management sought additional opportunities in the
northeastern United States to expand its presence in that region.
On June 21, 1999, Bradford J. Faxon, Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive
Officer and President, Peter H. Thanas Senior Vice President, and Thomas K.
Barry, director of Fall River Gas, met with Thomas F. Karam, President and Chief
Executive Officer of PEI, a Pennsylvania based gas utility holding company that
was then in the initial stages of its merger with Southern Union, and discussed,
in general terms, their respective companies and whether it would be appropriate
to initiate further discussions between representatives of Southern Union and
Fall River Gas regarding a possible business combination. As a follow-up to this
conversation, Mr. Karam sent Mr. Faxon copies of recent Southern Union public
reports.
On July 19, 1999, following several general conversations between Mr. Faxon and
Mr. Karam about the energy industry and the philosophies of their companies, and
the possibility of a strategic relationship between Southern Union and Fall
River Gas, Mr. Karam conveyed Southern Union's proposal to acquire Fall River
Gas, in an all stock transaction, valuing the Fall River Gas stock at $21 per
share. Mr. Faxon communicated the proposal to the executive committee of the
board of directors of Fall River Gas at the executive committee's July 23, 1999
meeting (director Ronald J. Ferris was also in attendance). The committee
concluded that the proposal was too low and instructed Mr. Faxon to seek a
higher proposed price. After Fall River Gas advised Southern Union of this
decision, additional discussions occurred between Mr. Faxon, Mr. Thanas, and Mr.
Karam and Peter H. Kelley, President and Chief Operating Officer of Southern
Union. On July 29, 1999 Southern Union made a revised proposal of $23.50 per
share and Mr. Faxon undertook to seek approval by the Fall River Gas board of
directors. Subsequently, discussions ensued between Messrs. Faxon, Thanas,
counsel for the respective companies and Mr. Karam as well as other
representatives of Southern Union with respect to other proposed terms for a
transaction.
On August 24, 1999, the Southern Union board unanimously approved an all stock
merger agreement with Fall River Gas.
On the morning of September 8, 1999, the board of Fall River Gas met to
consider a merger agreement with Southern Union. At the same time,at Fall
River Gas' request, the American Stock Exchange agreed to suspend trading in
the stock of Fall River Gas while the board and its advisors discussed the
merger. At this meeting, Mr. Kelley, Ronald J. Endres, Southern Union's
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, and Mr. Karam, made a
presentation describing Southern Union, its operations and recent corporate
history, including its 1994 Missouri acquisition and its then pending merger
with PEI, as well as its corporate plan of growth through acquisitions. Mr.
Endres discussed Southern Union's returns to investors and discussed Southern
Union's business vision of enhancing profitability through technological
advances. Mr. Karam summarized the benefits of Southern Union's strategies
and certain benefits of the proposed merger: (1) geographical diversification
and minimum employee disruption; (2) reduction in costs; (3) creation of
additional value through increased size; and (4) establishment of a New
England presence for Southern Union.
After this meeting, Fall River Gas issued a press release stating that it had
received an offer from an undisclosed party for an all stock transaction at
$23.50 per share, and that the board of directors had formed a committee to
help it evaluate the offer. During the next several days, additional
discussions were held among the representatives of Fall River Gas and
Southern Union, while the special committee gathered additional information
regarding Southern Union.
On the morning of September 17, 1999, the Fall River Gas board again met to
consider the proposed merger. After extensive discussion, the board
determined that it lacked sufficient consensus to recommend the merger as
structured. Fall River Gas then issued a press release stating that the board
had rejected the offer.
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On September 27, 1999, the Executive Committee of Southern Union's board
approved a revised offer in order to provide that part of the consideration
Fall River Gas stockholders would receive in connection with the merger could
be cash rather than stock of Southern Union having determined that this
change was in the best interest of Southern Union and its stockholders,
customers and employees.
Following additional conversations between representatives of Southern Union
and Fall River Gas, by letter dated September 28, 1999, Mr. Karam conveyed
Southern Union's willingness to change the structure for its proposed merger
to provide that up to one-half of the consideration could be cash rather than
stock of Southern Union. At its regular meeting on September 30, 1999, Fall
River Gas' board considered the terms of Southern Union's revised offer. Fall
River Gas' counsel discussed various aspects of the merger agreement,
conditions to closing, as well as a likely time schedule. Following the
meeting, Messrs. Faxon and Thanas called representatives of Southern Union to
communicate the board's approval. After the close of business on October 4,
1999, the merger agreement was executed and the merger was publicly announced.
Subsequent to the execution of the merger agreement, the issue arose as to
whether Southern Union was required under Massachusetts law to obtain the
approval of the Fall River Gas merger by holders of two-thirds of the
outstanding shares of Southern Union common stock in connection with
obtaining the approval by the Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications
and Energy. In order to eliminate any uncertainty concerning this issue and
to facilitate the closing of the transaction, Southern Union advised Fall
River Gas and the Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications and Energy
that it would seek, and through this proxy statement at the Southern Union
special meeting it is seeking, such stockholder approval.
SOUTHERN UNION'S REASONS FOR THE FALL RIVER GAS MERGER
In reaching its determination that a merger with Fall River Gas is in the
best interest of Southern Union, and its stockholders, customers and
employees, the Southern Union board of directors, including its Executive
Committee, consulted with and relied upon information and reports prepared or
presented by Southern Union's management and Southern Union's legal advisors.
The following are the material factors considered by the Southern Union
board, including its Executive Committee, in pursuing acquisition
opportunities, generally, which are relevant to their approval of the merger
agreement with Fall River Gas, some of which contained both positive and
negative elements:
- the terms of a proposed form of merger agreement consistent with those
terms described under "The Fall River Gas Merger Agreement";
- the likelihood of receipt of timely and satisfactory regulatory
approvals for the merger;
- the risk that the merger would not be consummated;
- other recent and potential mergers involving utilities in the northeastern
region of the country, particularly PEI, ProvEnergy and Valley Resources;
- the substantial management time and effort that will be required to
consummate all aspects of the recent and prospective mergers, including to
integrate the operations of those companies, and the risks inherent in such
integration;
- other matters described under "Forward-Looking Statements May
Prove Inaccurate"; and
- the results of Southern Union's business investigation of Fall
River Gas and its subsidiary.
The foregoing discussion of the information and factors considered by the
Southern Union board, including its Executive Committee, is not intended to be
all-inclusive. In view of the wide variety of factors considered in connection
with its evaluation of acquisition opportunities, including this proposed
merger, the Southern Union board, including its Executive Committee, did not
find it practicable to, and did not, quantify or otherwise attempt to assign
relative weights to the foregoing factors. Rather, the Southern Union board,
including its Executive Committee, based its decisions on the totality of the
information presented to and considered by it.
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RECOMMENDATION OF SOUTHERN UNION'S BOARD OF DIRECTORS
On May 31, 2000 the Southern Union Board of Directors approved a resolution
recommending that the stockholders of Southern Union approve the Fall River
Gas Company merger at a special meeting of stockholders, due to the merger
being in the best interests of Southern Union, its stockholders, employees
and customers, and the desire to avoid unnecessary delay in the receipt of
certain regulatory approvals as previously explained.
INTERESTS OF FALL RIVER GAS OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS IN THE FALL RIVER
GAS MERGER
In considering the recommendation of the Southern Union board with respect to
approving the Fall River Gas merger, you should be aware that members of Fall
River Gas' management and the Fall River Gas board have the following
interests in the merger that may be different from, or in addition to, the
interests of Fall River Gas stockholders generally and represent conflicts of
interest.
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS, TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT AND CHANGE-IN-CONTROL
ARRANGEMENTS. Effective September 30, 1991, Fall River Gas entered into
employment agreements with its President and Chief Executive Officer,
Bradford J. Faxon and with its Senior Vice President, Treasurer and Chief
Financial Officer, Peter H. Thanas.
Under the terms of these employment agreements, Mr. Faxon is compensated for
his duties as an officer and director, and Mr. Thanas is compensated for his
duties as an officer. The amounts of their respective salaries are determined
from time to time by the board of directors. The term of each employment
agreement was initially five years, subject to earlier termination by an act
of Fall River Gas or the respective officer. Beginning in September 1993 and
annually thereafter, the remaining term of each employment agreement is
automatically extended for an additional one-year period. On November 30,
1998, Fall River Gas entered into a similar employment agreement with John F.
Fanning, a Fall River Gas officer.
These employment agreements provide that if the respective officer is
terminated without cause or terminates his employment as a result of certain
adverse actions by Southern Union, during a period of thirty-six months
following a "change in control" of Fall River Gas, the officer shall receive
a lump sum severance amount and continuation of certain welfare plan
benefits. A "change of control" will be considered to have occurred on the
date the merger is completed.
The lump sum severance payment is an amount equal to three times the annual
(or annualized) compensation paid to the respective officer during the period
as of the date of termination. The maximum value of the severance payments
which may become payable to these three officers in the aggregate under the
terms of their agreements is approximately $1,692,000.
On October 4, 1999, these employment agreements were amended. These
amendments will become effective as of the date the Fall River Gas merger is
completed. These amendments provide for payment to Messrs. Faxon, Thanas and
Fanning of $1,000,000; $700,000 and $300,000, respectively. If Southern Union
continues their employment with Fall River Gas, these payments will be made
in equal monthly installments over an eighteen month period beginning on the
effective date of the merger. These payments would be offset against any
severance payments that may become owed under any of the agreements.
DEFENSE, INDEMNIFICATION AND INSURANCE FOR FALL RIVER GAS OFFICERS AND
DIRECTORS. For a period of six years after the completion of the Fall River
Gas merger, Southern Union has agreed to indemnify and hold harmless the
present and former officers and directors of Fall River Gas and its
subsidiary in respect of acts or omissions occurring prior to the completion
of the merger to the extent provided under Fall River Gas' restated articles
of incorporation and bylaws in effect on the date hereof; PROVIDED, HOWEVER,
that if any claim or claims are asserted or made within such six-year period,
all rights to indemnification in respect of such claims shall continue until
the final disposition of any and all such claims.
For six years after the completion of the Fall River Gas merger, Southern
Union will use its reasonable best efforts to provide officers' and
directors' liability insurance in respect of acts or omissions occurring
prior to the completion of the merger covering each such person currently
covered by Fall River Gas' officers' and directors' liability insurance
policy on terms with respect to coverage and amount no less favorable than
those of such policy in effect on the date hereof; PROVIDED THAT, in
satisfying this obligation, if the annual premiums of such insurance coverage
exceed 200% of the previous year's premiums, Southern Union will be obligated
to obtain a policy with the best coverage available, in the reasonable
judgment of Southern
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Union's board, for a cost not exceeding such amount. See "The Fall River Gas
Merger Agreement -- Indemnification and Insurance for Fall River Gas Officers
and Directors."
CERTAIN U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE FALL RIVER GAS
MERGER
The following discussion is intended only as a summary of the material U.S.
federal income tax consequences of the Fall River Gas merger to Southern
Union, Fall River Gas and Southern Union stockholders and does not purport to
be a complete analysis or description of all potential tax effects of the
Fall River Gas merger. In addition, the discussion does not address all of
the tax consequences that may be relevant to particular taxpayers in light of
their personal circumstances or to taxpayers subject to special tax rules
(for example, insurance companies, financial institutions, dealers in
securities tax-exempt organizations, banks, foreign taxpayers and taxpayers
holding common stock as parts of straddles). No information is provided with
respect to the tax consequences, if any, of the Fall River Gas merger under
applicable foreign, state, local or other tax laws.
The discussion is based upon the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code,
applicable Treasury regulations thereunder, IRS rulings and judicial
decisions, as in effect as of the date of this proxy statement. There can be
no assurance that future legislative, administrative or judicial changes or
interpretations will not affect the accuracy of the statements or conclusions
included in this proxy statement. Any such change could apply retroactively
and could affect the accuracy of such discussion.
Each stockholder of Southern Union is urged to consult such stockholder's own
tax advisor as to the specific tax consequences to such stockholder of the
Fall River Gas merger under U.S. federal, state, local or any other
applicable tax laws.
THIS SUMMARY DOES NOT PURPORT TO BE A COMPREHENSIVE DESCRIPTION OF ALL OF THE
TAX CONSIDERATIONS THAT MAY BE RELEVANT TO A DECISION WHETHER TO APPROVE THE
FALL RIVER GAS MERGER. THIS SUMMARY IS PROVIDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION
PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE LEGAL OR TAX ADVICE.
TAX OPINIONS. The obligation of Southern Union to consummate the Fall River
Gas merger is conditioned on its receipt on the closing date of an opinion
from Hughes Hubbard & Reed LLP, tax counsel to Southern Union, that the
merger will qualify as a reorganization under Section 368(a) of the Internal
Revenue Code (the "Southern Union Tax Opinion"). The obligation of Fall River
Gas to consummate the merger is conditioned on its receipt on the closing
date of an opinion from Rich, May, Bilodeau & Flaherty, P.C., Fall River Gas'
counsel, that the merger will qualify as a reorganization under Section
368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code (the "Fall River Gas Tax Opinion").
Each of the Southern Union Tax Opinion and the Fall River Gas Tax Opinion
will be based on certain representations contained in letters from Southern
Union, Fall River Gas and others delivered for the purpose of the opinions
and will be subject to certain limitations and qualifications similar to
those set forth in this discussion of significant U.S. federal income tax
consequences of the Fall River Gas merger. Each of the Southern Union Tax
Opinion and the Fall River Gas Tax Opinion will be based on certain
assumptions, including that the Fall River Gas merger will be consummated
exactly as described in this proxy statement and in the Fall River Gas merger
agreement.
An opinion of counsel represents only counsel's best judgment and has no
binding effect or official status of any kind; and no assurance can be given
that contrary positions will not be taken by the IRS or by a court
considering the issues. Neither Southern Union nor Fall River Gas has
requested or intends to request a ruling from the IRS with regard to any of
the federal income tax consequences of the Fall River Gas merger.
The discussions below of "CONSEQUENCES TO SOUTHERN UNION STOCKHOLDERS" and
"CONSEQUENCES TO SOUTHERN UNION AND FALL RIVER GAS" assume that the Fall
River Gas merger will qualify as a reorganization under Section 368(a) of the
Internal Revenue Code.
CONSEQUENCES TO SOUTHERN UNION STOCKHOLDERS. Southern Union stockholders will
not exchange or otherwise dispose of their Southern Union common stock in the
Fall River Gas merger. They will therefore realize no taxable gain or loss
whatsoever.
CONSEQUENCES TO SOUTHERN UNION AND FALL RIVER GAS. No gain or loss will be
recognized by Southern Union or Fall River Gas by reason of the Fall River
Gas merger.
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REGULATORY APPROVALS FOR THE FALL RIVER GAS MERGER
The following is a summary of the material regulatory requirements affecting
the Fall River Gas merger. There can be no guarantee if and when any of the
consents or approvals required for the merger will be obtained or as to the
conditions that they may contain. Southern Union and Fall River Gas have
filed for the required approvals from all of the agencies discussed. The
management of Southern Union and Fall River Gas, respectively, believe that
the necessary approvals can be obtained in 2000 and presently expect that
they all will be received by September 2000.
STATE APPROVALS AND RELATED MATTERS. The utility operations of Southern Union
are subject to the regulatory jurisdiction of the Missouri Public Service
Commission ("MPSC"), the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission ("PPUC"), the
Railroad Commission of Texas ("RRC") and various municipalities in Texas
where Southern Union conducts business, and the Florida Public Service
Commission ("FPSC"). On May 11, 2000, the PPUC approved the Fall River Gas
merger. The MPSC approved Fall River Gas merger on June 28, 2000.
Authorization from the FPSC and the PPUC with respect to the securities that
may be issued and debt that may be assumed by Southern Union in connection
with the Fall River Gas merger is also required. None of the other required
state approvals had been received as of the date of this proxy statement. No
RRC or Texas municipality approvals are required in connection with the
merger.
The utility operations of Fall River Gas are subject to the regulatory
jurisdiction of the Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications and Energy
("MDTE") and subsequent to the Fall River Gas merger, those operations,
conducted as a division of Southern Union, will remain subject to MDTE
jurisdiction. Among the key provisions are those addressing rates and
charges, standards of service, and accounting and approval of certain
financing transactions.
Subsequent to the execution of the Fall River Gas merger agreement, the issue
arose as to whether Southern Union was required under Massachusetts law to
obtain the approval of the transaction by holders of two-thirds of the
outstanding shares of Southern Union common stock in connection with
obtaining the approval of the transaction by the MDTE. In order to eliminate
any uncertainty concerning this issue and to facilitate the closing of the
transaction, Southern Union advised Fall River Gas and the MDTE that it
intends to seek, and through this proxy statement at the Southern Union
special meeting it is seeking, such stockholder approval.
Assuming the requisite regulatory approvals are obtained, the combined
company and its utility operations will remain subject to the regulatory
jurisdiction of the MDTE, MPSC, PPUC, RRC and various municipalities in
Texas, and the FPSC. Upon completion of the Valley Resources and ProvEnergy
mergers, the combined company and its utility operations will also be subject
to the regulatory jurisdiction of the Rhode Island Public Utilities
Commission and the Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers.
ANTI-TRUST CONSIDERATIONS. Under the HSR Act, Southern Union and Fall River
Gas cannot complete the Fall River Gas merger until we give notification and
furnish information to the Federal Trade Commission ("FTC") and the Antitrust
Division of the Department of Justice and the specified waiting period
requirements have been satisfied. Southern Union and Fall River Gas filed the
required notification and report forms with the FTC and the Antitrust
Division on March 1, 2000. A request for additional information from the FTC
was received on March 31, 2000, to which Southern Union and Fall River Gas
have responded. At any time before or after the effective time of the Fall
River Gas merger, and notwithstanding that the waiting period has terminated
or the Fall River Gas merger may have been consummated, the FTC, the
Antitrust Division or any state could take any action under the applicable
antitrust or competition laws as it deems necessary or desirable. This action
could include seeking to enjoin the completion of the Fall River Gas merger.
Private parties may also institute legal actions under the antitrust laws
under some circumstances. If the Fall River Gas merger is not consummated
within twelve months after the expiration or earlier termination of the HSR
Act waiting period, Southern Union and Fall River Gas would be required to
submit new filings to the Department of Justice and the FTC, and a new HSR
Act waiting period would have to expire or be earlier terminated before the
merger could be consummated.
ACCOUNTING TREATMENT FOR THE FALL RIVER GAS MERGER
The Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Financial Statements appearing
elsewhere in this proxy statement are based upon certain assumptions, as
described in the pro forma combined condensed financial statements, and are
included for informational purposes only. The Fall River Gas merger will be
accounted for using the purchase method of accounting, in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles. Under the purchase method of
accounting, Southern Union's historical results for periods before the Fall
River Gas merger will remain unchanged. On the closing date, the combined
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company will record Fall River Gas' assets and liabilities of regulated
entities at their historical cost basis, and Fall River Gas' assets and
liabilities of non-regulated entities will be recorded at fair value, with
any excess recorded as additional purchase cost assigned to utility plant.
See "Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Financial Statements."
LISTING OF SOUTHERN UNION COMMON STOCK
It is a condition to the completion of the Fall River Gas merger that the
shares of Southern Union common stock to be issued in connection with the
merger be approved for listing on the NYSE at or before the time the merger
is completed. See "The Fall River Gas Merger Agreement -- Conditions to the
Completion of the Fall River Gas Merger."
FEDERAL SECURITIES LAW CONSEQUENCES
All shares of Southern Union common stock received by Fall River Gas
stockholders in connection with the merger will be freely transferable,
except that shares of Southern Union common stock received by individuals and
entities who are deemed to be "affiliates" (as such term is defined under the
Securities Act) of Fall River Gas before the merger may be resold by them
only in transactions permitted by the resale provisions of Rule 145 under the
Securities Act (or Rule 144 under the Securities Act, in the case of
individuals and entities who become affiliates of Southern Union) or as
otherwise permitted under the Securities Act.
Persons who may be deemed to be affiliates of Southern Union or Fall River
Gas generally include individuals or entities that control, are controlled
by, or are under common control with, Southern Union or Fall River Gas and
may include certain officers and directors of Southern Union or Fall River
Gas as well as principal stockholders of Southern Union or Fall River Gas.
The merger agreement requires Fall River Gas to use commercially reasonable
efforts to cause each of its affiliates to execute and deliver to Southern
Union a letter to the effect that such affiliate will not offer or sell or
otherwise dispose of Southern Union common stock issued to such affiliate in
or pursuant to the Fall River Gas merger in violation of the Securities Act
or the rules and regulations adopted by the SEC thereunder. See "The Fall
River Gas Merger Agreement -- Covenants and Other Agreements -- Certain Other
Covenants and Agreements." The delivery of such agreements is also a
condition to Southern Union's obligation to complete the merger. See "The
Fall River Gas Merger Agreement -- Conditions to the Completion of the Fall
River Gas Merger -- Additional Closing Conditions for Southern Union's
Benefit."
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THE PROVENERGY MERGER
THIS SECTION OF THE PROXY STATEMENT, AS WELL AS THE SECTION ENTITLED "THE
PROVENERGY MERGER AGREEMENT," DESCRIBES CERTAIN ASPECTS OF THE PROPOSED
MERGER WITH PROVENERGY. THESE SECTIONS HIGHLIGHT KEY INFORMATION ABOUT THE
PROVENERGY MERGER AND THE PROVENERGY MERGER AGREEMENT, BUT THEY MAY NOT
INCLUDE ALL THE INFORMATION THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO KNOW. THE MERGER AGREEMENT
BETWEEN PROVENERGY AND SOUTHERN UNION IS ATTACHED AS APPENDIX C TO THIS PROXY
STATEMENT. WE URGE YOU TO READ THE PROVENERGY MERGER AGREEMENT IN ITS
ENTIRETY.
SOUTHERN UNION BACKGROUND OF THE PROVENERGY MERGER
For the past several years, Southern Union has pursued acquisition and
business combination opportunities. After the announcement of its merger
agreement with PEI, Southern Union management sought additional opportunities
in the northeastern United States that could expand its presence in that
region.
In late July, 1999, Mr. Thomas F. Karam, the President and Chief Executive
Officer of PEI, an energy company that had agreed to be acquired by Southern
Union (and was subsequently acquired on November 4, 1999), telephoned Mr.
James Dodge, the Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President of
ProvEnergy, to propose a meeting to discuss Southern Union's interest in
acquiring ProvEnergy. Mr. Dodge and Mr. Karam met in Providence on August 2,
1999 for preliminary discussions. Mr. Dodge, Mr. James DeMetro, the Executive
Vice President of ProvEnergy, Mr. Karam and Mr. Peter H. Kelley, the
President and Chief Operating Officer of Southern Union, met on August 10,
1999 and discussed their respective views of the industry, strategic
directions and management philosophies of each company, and the potential
benefits of a business combination transaction involving the companies. On
September 13, 1999, Mr. Dodge, Mr. DeMetro, and Mr. Kenneth Hogan, the Vice
President and Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of ProvEnergy, met with
Mr. Karam, Mr. Ronald Simms, Chairman of PEI, Mr. Kelley and other members of
Southern Union's senior management in Austin, Texas to continue discussions
about a possible acquisition of ProvEnergy by Southern Union. On September
22, 1999, Mr. Dodge met in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia with George
L. Lindemann, the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of
Southern Union, and Messrs. Karam and Kelley to discuss the prospective
business strategy and management organization of a combined entity.
On September 24, 1999, Southern Union's legal advisor delivered an initial
draft of a merger agreement to ProvEnergy and ProvEnergy's legal advisors.
During the next three weeks there were various meetings and discussions among
representatives of Southern Union and ProvEnergy and their advisors regarding
the transaction structure, the form and amount of the merger consideration,
the management of the combined company and other material terms. During this
time the parties also executed a confidentiality agreement and commenced due
diligence investigations and discussions with respect to each other, and
ProvEnergy retained regulatory counsel.
On October 21, 1999, the ProvEnergy board of directors met to discuss the
current status of the proposed transaction with Southern Union.
During the next three weeks there were numerous meetings and telephone calls
among the senior management and legal advisors of Southern Union and
ProvEnergy and representatives of Salomon Smith Barney, ProvEnergy's
financial advisor, concerning the proposed merger agreement and the proposed
employment agreements between Southern Union and Messrs. Dodge and DeMetro.
During this time the parties completed their due diligence investigations and
it was agreed, among other things, that the merger consideration would be
paid entirely in cash.
On November 10, 1999, the Board of Directors of Southern Union unanimously
approved a merger with ProvEnergy and authorized its Executive Committee to
negotiate the definitive merger agreement.
On November 11, 1999, members of senior management of Southern Union and
ProvEnergy, their respective legal advisors and representatives of Salomon
Smith Barney met in New York City to finalize the terms of the ProvEnergy
merger agreement, the employment agreements and related documentation. The
primary terms discussed were the purchase price, the termination fee and the
conditions to closing. On November 12, 1999, the Executive Committee of
Southern Union unanimously authorized Mr. Kelley and Southern Union's
Executive Vice President, Ronald J. Endres, to enter into a merger agreement
with ProvEnergy for an all cash merger consideration of $42.50 per share.
Thereafter, representatives of Southern
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Union and ProvEnergy continued to finalize the terms of the merger agreement,
the employment agreements and related documentation.
On the evening of November 14, 1999, the ProvEnergy board of directors met
with Messrs. Kelley and Karam in Providence, Rhode Island.
On the morning of November 15, 1999, the ProvEnergy board of directors held a
special meeting to review and consider the proposed transaction with Southern
Union. The ProvEnergy board of directors unanimously determined that it was
in the best interests of ProvEnergy and its shareholders, as well as for the
community, customers and employees of ProvEnergy, for ProvEnergy to merge
with Southern Union and determined that the terms of the merger agreement and
the transactions contemplated thereby were fair to and in the best interests
of ProvEnergy and its shareholders and approved the ProvEnergy merger
agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby. Following the ProvEnergy
board of directors meeting, the merger agreement, the employment agreements
and related documentation were executed and delivered, and the parties issued
a joint press release announcing the transaction.
Subsequent to the execution of the merger agreement, the issue arose as to
whether Southern Union was required under Massachusetts law to obtain the
approval of the ProvEnergy merger by holders of two-thirds of the outstanding
shares of Southern Union common stock in connection with obtaining the
approval by the Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications and Energy of
Southern Union's acquisition of North Attleboro Gas, ProvEnergy's
Massachusetts utility subsidiary. In order to eliminate any uncertainty
concerning this issue and to facilitate the closing of the transaction,
Southern Union advised ProvEnergy and the Massachusetts Department of
Telecommunications and Energy that it intends to seek, and as of the date of
this document it is seeking, such stockholder approval.
SOUTHERN UNION'S REASONS FOR THE PROVENERGY MERGER
In reaching its determination that a merger with ProvEnergy is in the best
interest of Southern Union, its stockholders, customers and employees, the
Southern Union board of directors, including its Executive Committee,
consulted with and relied upon information and reports prepared or presented
by Southern Union's management and Southern Union's legal advisors. The
following are the material factors considered by the Southern Union board,
including its Executive Committee, in pursuing acquisition opportunities,
generally, which are relevant to their approval of a merger agreement with
ProvEnergy, some of which contained both positive and negative elements:
- the terms of a proposed form of merger agreement consistent with those
terms described under "The ProvEnergy Merger Agreement";
- the likelihood of receipt of timely and satisfactory regulatory
approvals for the merger;
- the risk that the merger would not be consummated;
- other recent and potential mergers involving utilities in the northeastern
region of the country, particularly PEI, Fall River Gas and Valley
Resources;
- the substantial management time and effort that will be required to
consummate all aspects of the recent and prospective mergers, including to
integrate the operations of those companies, and the risks inherent in such
integration;
- other matters described under "Forward-Looking Statements May Prove
Inaccurate"; and
- the results of Southern Union's business investigation of
ProvEnergy and its subsidiaries.
The foregoing discussion of the information and factors considered by the
Southern Union board, including its Executive Committee, is not intended to
be all-inclusive. In view of the wide variety of factors considered in
connection with its evaluation of acquisition opportunities, including this
proposed merger, the Southern Union board, including its Executive Committee,
did not find it practicable to, and did not, quantify or otherwise attempt to
assign relative weights to the foregoing factors. Rather, the Southern Union
board, including its Executive Committee, based its decision on the totality
of the information presented to and considered by it.
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RECOMMENDATION OF SOUTHERN UNION'S BOARD OF DIRECTORS
On May 31, 2000, the Southern Union Board of Directors approved a resolution
recommending that the stockholders of Southern Union approve the ProvEnergy
merger at a special meeting of stockholders, due to the merger being in the
best interests of Southern Union, its stockholders, employees and customers,
and the desire to avoid unnecessary delay in the receipt of certain
regulatory approvals as previously explained.
INTERESTS OF PROVENERGY OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS IN THE PROVENERGY
MERGER
In considering the recommendation of the Southern Union board of directors
that you vote for the ProvEnergy approval of the merger agreement, you should
be aware that certain directors and executive officers of ProvEnergy have
interests in the ProvEnergy merger in addition to their interests solely as
ProvEnergy shareholders. These interests may create potential conflicts of
interest.
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS. In connection with the ProvEnergy merger agreement,
Southern Union entered into an employment agreement with Mr. James H. Dodge,
which will become effective upon the consummation of the initial merger of
GUS into ProvEnergy. The employment agreement provides for an initial three
year term, with automatic extensions so that the agreement continuously has a
three year remaining term until Mr. Dodge attains age 62, at which time the
term shall become fixed at three years. The agreement provides Mr. Dodge with
a base salary of $400,000, continues his opportunity to earn an annual
incentive bonus (which must be equal to at least 50% of his base salary), and
enhances his retirement benefits. Mr. Dodge will receive a $1,000,000 bonus
payable at the effective time of the initial merger and two subsequent annual
bonuses of $500,000. If Mr. Dodge's employment is terminated without "cause"
or if Mr. Dodge terminates his employment for "good reason" (as such terms
are defined in the employment agreement), Mr. Dodge will receive payment of
all unpaid bonuses and incentive awards for the remainder of the three year
term, as well as continued provision of company health, life and disability
benefits until Mr. Dodge reaches age 65 (or for three years following his
termination, if later), with post-retirement health benefits provided to Mr.
Dodge and his spouse thereafter.
In connection with the ProvEnergy merger agreement, Southern Union entered
into an amendment to the employment agreement of Mr. James DeMetro, which
will become effective upon the consummation of the initial merger. This
amendment provides Mr. DeMetro with a $500,000 bonus payable at the effective
time of the initial merger, enhances his retirement benefits and expands the
definition of good reason to include the failure to renew his employment
agreement.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS OF SOUTHERN UNION. Immediately after the
effective time of the initial merger on the closing date, Mr. James H. Dodge,
the Chief Executive Officer of ProvEnergy, will be elected to the board of
directors of Southern Union and thereafter will be nominated for reelection,
if necessary, so that he will have a term of at least three years from the
closing date.
In addition, from the effective time of the initial merger until the earlier
of their resignation or removal by the President of Southern Union:
- Mr. James H. Dodge will serve as Chief Executive Officer and
President of the ProvEnergy and North Attleboro divisions of
Southern Union and all other energy-related businesses of Southern
Union conducted in New England, and
- Mr. James DeMetro will serve as Executive Vice President, Energy Services,
of the ProvEnergy and North Attleboro divisions of Southern Union and all
other energy-related businesses of Southern Union conducted in New England.
See "The ProvEnergy Merger Agreement -- Covenants and Other Agreements,
including Post-Closing Commitments -- Employees; Benefits" which sets forth
the positions of other ProvEnergy executives after the initial merger.
DEFENSE, INDEMNIFICATION AND INSURANCE FOR PROVENERGY OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS.
Under the ProvEnergy merger agreement, Southern Union agreed for a period of
six years after the effective time of the initial merger to indemnify and
hold harmless the present and former officers and directors of ProvEnergy and
its subsidiaries in respect of acts or omissions occurring prior to the
effective time to the extent provided under ProvEnergy's articles of
incorporation and bylaws. In addition, subject to specified limitations,
Southern Union agreed to use its reasonable best efforts to provide officers'
and directors' liability insurance for acts and omissions occurring before
the ProvEnergy merger on terms with respect to coverage and
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amount that are no less favorable to the terms in effect on the date of
the ProvEnergy merger agreement. See "The ProvEnergy Merger Agreement --
Indemnification and Insurance for ProvEnergy Officers and Directors."
CERTAIN FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE PROVENERGY MERGER
The following discussion is intended only as a summary of the material U.S.
federal income tax consequences of the ProvEnergy merger to ProvEnergy,
Southern Union and Southern Union stockholders and does not purport to be a
complete analysis or description of all potential tax effects of the merger.
In addition, the discussion does not address all of the tax consequences that
may be relevant to particular taxpayers in light of their personal
circumstances or to taxpayers subject to special tax rules (for example,
insurance companies, financial institutions, dealers in securities,
tax-exempt organizations, banks, foreign taxpayers and taxpayers holding
common stock as parts of straddles). No information is provided with respect
to the tax consequences, if any, of the merger under applicable foreign,
state, local or other tax laws.
The discussion is based upon the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code,
applicable Treasury regulations thereunder, IRS rulings and judicial
decisions, as in effect as the date of this proxy statement. There can be no
assurance that future legislative, administrative or judicial changes or
interpretations will not affect the accuracy of other statements or
conclusions set forth herein. Any such change could apply retroactively and
could affect the accuracy of such discussion.
THIS SUMMARY DOES NOT PURPORT TO BE A COMPREHENSIVE DESCRIPTION OF ALL OF THE
TAX CONSIDERATIONS THAT MAY BE RELEVANT TO A DECISION WHETHER TO APPROVE THE
PROVENERGY MERGER. THIS SUMMARY IS PROVIDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION PURPOSES
ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE LEGAL OR TAX ADVICE.
CONSEQUENCES TO SOUTHERN UNION STOCKHOLDERS. Southern Union stockholders will
not exchange or otherwise dispose of their Southern Union common stock in the
ProvEnergy merger. They will therefore realize no taxable gain or loss
whatsoever.
CONSEQUENCES TO SOUTHERN UNION AND PROVENERGY. No gain or loss will be
recognized by Southern Union or ProvEnergy by reason of the ProvEnergy merger.
REGULATORY APPROVALS FOR THE PROVENERGY MERGER
The following is a summary of the material regulatory requirements affecting
the ProvEnergy merger. There can be no guarantee if and when any of the
consents or approvals required for the ProvEnergy merger will be obtained or
as to the conditions that they may contain. Southern Union and ProvEnergy
have filed for the required approvals from all of the agencies discussed. The
management of Southern Union and ProvEnergy, respectively, believe that the
necessary approvals can be obtained in 2000 and presently expect that they
will all be received by September 2000.
STATE APPROVALS AND RELATED MATTERS. The utility operations of Southern Union
are subject to the regulatory jurisdiction of the MPSC, the PPUC, the RRC and
various municipalities in Texas where Southern Union conducts business, and
the FPSC. The FPSC and PPUC must approve certain related financing
arrangements. The PPUC approved the ProvEnergy merger on May 11, 2000. On
June 28, 2000, the MPSC approved the ProvEnergy merger. No other state
approvals have been received as of the date of this proxy statement. No RRC
or Texas municipality approvals are required in connection with the merger.
The utility operations of ProvEnergy are subject to the jurisdiction of the
Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission ("RIPUC") and the Rhode Island
Division of Public Utilities and Carriers ("RIDPUC"), and the utility
operations of its wholly-owned subsidiary, North Attleboro Gas, are subject
to the jurisdiction of the Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications and
Energy ("MDTE"), with respect to rates and charges, standards of service,
accounting and other matters including certain financing transactions.
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's ("FERC") approval, required to
complete the merger of Southern Union and ProvEnergy, was obtained in June
2000, effective as of the closing date of the merger.
The approvals of the MDTE and if necessary, RIDPUC, are required to complete
the ProvEnergy merger.
Subsequent to the execution of the ProvEnergy merger agreement, the issue
arose as to whether Southern Union was required under Massachusetts law to
obtain the approval of the transaction by holders of two-thirds of the
outstanding shares of Southern Union common stock in connection with
obtaining the approval of the North Attleboro Gas merger by the MDTE.
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In order to eliminate any uncertainty concerning this issue and to facilitate
the closing of the transaction, Southern Union has advised ProvEnergy and the
MDTE that it intends to seek, and through this proxy statement at the
Southern Union special meeting is seeking, such stockholder approval.
Assuming the requisite regulatory approvals are obtained, the combined
company and its utility operations will remain subject to the regulatory
jurisdiction of the MDTE, MPSC, PPUC, RRC and various municipalities in
Texas, the FPSC, RIPUC and RIDPUC.
ANTI-TRUST CONSIDERATIONS. Under the HSR Act, Southern Union and ProvEnergy
cannot complete the ProvEnergy merger until both companies give notification
and furnish information to the FTC and the Antitrust Division of the
Department of Justice and the specified waiting period requirements have been
satisfied. Southern Union and ProvEnergy filed the required notification and
report forms with the FTC and the Antitrust Division on March 1, 2000. A
request for additional information from the FTC was received on March 31,
2000, to which Southern Union and ProvEnergy have responded. At any time
before or after the effective time of the ProvEnergy merger, and
notwithstanding that the waiting period has terminated or the ProvEnergy
merger may have been consummated, the FTC, the Antitrust Division or any
state could take any action under the applicable antitrust or competition
laws as it deems necessary or desirable. This action could include seeking to
enjoin the completion of the ProvEnergy merger. Private parties may also
institute legal actions under the antitrust laws under some circumstances. If
the ProvEnergy merger is not consummated within twelve months after the
expiration or earlier termination of the HSR Act waiting period, Southern
Union and ProvEnergy would be required to submit new filings to the
Department of Justice and the FTC, and a new HSR Act waiting period would
have to expire or be earlier terminated before the merger could be
consummated.
See "The ProvEnergy Merger Agreement -- Conditions to Completion of the
ProvEnergy Merger."
ACCOUNTING TREATMENT FOR THE PROVENERGY MERGER
The Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Financial Statements appearing
elsewhere in this proxy statement are based upon certain assumptions, as
described in the pro forma combined condensed financial statements, and are
included for informational purposes only. The ProvEnergy merger will be
accounted for using the purchase method of accounting, in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles. Under the purchase method of
accounting, Southern Union's historical results for periods before the
ProvEnergy merger will remain unchanged. On the closing date, the combined
company will record ProvEnergy's assets and liabilities of regulated entities
at their historical cost basis and ProvEnergy's assets and liabilities of
non-regulated entities will be recorded at fair value with any excess
recorded as additional purchase cost assigned to utility plant. See
"Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Financial Statements."
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MERGER-RELATED FINANCING
Southern Union's management is evaluating various sources and methods of
financing the amount necessary to fund the cash portion of the consideration
to be paid to Fall River Gas stockholders, the all cash consideration to be
paid to the ProvEnergy and Valley Resources stockholders, and all related
costs and refinancings anticipated in connection with these mergers. Southern
Union's management currently anticipates that substantially all of these
costs will be financed through external sources. Southern Union anticipates
soliciting consents from the holders of the mortgage bonds and debentures of
Fall River Gas, ProvEnergy and Valley Resources to revise or eliminate
certain of their indenture terms, primarily to conform to certain terms in
the indenture for Southern Union's outstanding senior notes.
Southern Union's pending acquisitions of Fall River Gas, ProvEnergy and
Valley Resources would require up to approximately $600 million of new
financing if Fall River Gas shareholders choose to receive the maximum of 50%
of the aggregate merger consideration that may be paid to them in cash and if
all of the approximately $140 million of existing long-term debt of the three
companies being acquired must be refinanced rather than amended and assumed
as planned. Presently, Southern Union expects to be able to amend the terms
of outstanding long-term debt of the three companies being acquired in order
to assume such debt. Southern Union presently plans to fund all other costs
for the three acquisitions with bank borrowings, although it has not yet
received commitments.
After closing the mergers, Southern Union may choose or need to refinance
some portion or all of the bank borrowings that it plans for funding the
pending acquisitions. Sources of future or alternative financing that
Southern Union may consider include commercial and investment banks,
institutional lenders, institutional investors and public securities markets.
The methods of financing that Southern Union may consider include bank lines
of credit, debt and preferred securities of various maturities and terms, and
common stock. Southern Union's management believes that Southern Union will
have access if and when needed to many sources and types of short-term and
long-term capital sources at reasonable rates.
All of these considerations and assumptions relate to the financing required
for the mergers and acquisitions that Southern Union has agreed to consummate
but not completed. As a result of its planned financing and as shown in the
Pro Forma Combined Condensed Financial Statements, the consolidated
capitalization of Southern Union after completion of Southern Union's three
pending mergers is expected to consist of at least 32% common equity,
approximately 5% preferred equity and approximately 63% long-term debt.
NO STATUTORY APPRAISAL RIGHTS
Under Delaware law, you do not have appraisal rights in connection with the Fall
River Gas and ProvEnergy mergers.
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THE FALL RIVER GAS MERGER AGREEMENT
THIS SECTION IS A SUMMARY OF THE MATERIAL TERMS OF THE FALL RIVER GAS MERGER
AGREEMENT, A COPY OF WHICH IS ATTACHED AS APPENDIX A TO THIS DOCUMENT. THE
FOLLOWING DESCRIPTION DOES NOT PURPORT TO BE COMPLETE AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS
ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO THE FALL RIVER GAS MERGER AGREEMENT. YOU SHOULD REFER
TO THE FULL TEXT OF THE FALL RIVER GAS MERGER AGREEMENT FOR DETAILS OF THE
MERGER AND THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT.
STRUCTURE OF THE MERGER
Under the Fall River Gas merger agreement, Fall River Gas will be merged with
and into Southern Union. After the merger, Southern Union will continue as the
surviving corporation. Southern Union's existing charter and bylaws will
remain in effect after the Fall River Gas merger and Southern Union's
management and board of directors will remain the same as a result of the Fall
River Gas merger, except as specifically discussed in this proxy statement.
See "Possible Effects of the Mergers on Southern Union Stockholder Rights."
As a result of the Fall River Gas merger, Fall River Gas will be a division of
Southern Union. Fall River Gas' non-regulated subsidiary will become a
subsidiary of Southern Union.
CLOSING; EFFECTIVE TIME
On the closing date of the Fall River Gas merger, we will file articles of
merger and a certificate of merger with the Secretary of State of the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts in accordance with the Massachusetts General
Laws ("MGL") and a certificate of merger with the Secretary of State of the
State of Delaware in accordance with the Delaware General Corporation Law
("DGCL"). The Fall River Gas merger will become effective upon filing of these
documents. This moment is referred to as the "effective time."
FALL RIVER GAS MERGER CONSIDERATION
Fall River Gas stockholders have the option to elect either cash or Southern
Union common stock or a combination of both in exchange for their shares of
Fall River Gas common stock, subject to certain limitations.
Each share of Fall River Gas common stock that a stockholder elects to
exchange for cash will be converted into the right to receive $23.50 in cash,
unless too many Fall River Gas stockholders elect to receive cash. No more
than 50% of the aggregate consideration paid to all Fall River Gas
stockholders may consist of cash, including cash paid to Fall River Gas
stockholders in lieu of issuing them fractional shares of Southern Union
common stock. If the Fall River Gas stockholders exceed this cash limitation,
the amount of cash paid to each Fall River Gas stockholder electing cash will
be reduced proportionately. Thus, if too many Fall River Gas stockholders
elect to receive cash, consequently exceeding the cash limitation, a
combination of cash and Southern Union common stock having a deemed value of
$23.50 will be delivered to Fall River Gas stockholders in exchange for each
share they selected to be exchanged for cash.
Each share of Fall River Gas common stock that a stockholder elects to
exchange for Southern Union common stock, will be converted into the right to
receive that number of whole shares of Southern Union common stock having a
value of $23.50. Southern Union will not issue any fractional shares of its
common stock in connection with the Fall River Gas merger. Instead, Fall River
Gas stockholders will be given cash for any fractional shares of Southern
Union common stock they would otherwise receive.
The exact number of shares of Southern Union common stock a Fall River Gas
stockholder will receive for each share of Fall River Gas common stock will
depend on the average trading price of Southern Union common stock on the New
York Stock Exchange for the ten trading day period beginning on the twelfth
trading day and ending on the third trading day before the closing of the
merger (counting from and including the trading day immediately preceding the
closing).
If the average price of Southern Union's common stock during this ten trading
day period is:
- Above $19.6875, the number of shares of Southern Union common stock will
be fixed at 1.19365 for each share of Fall River Gas common stock.
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- Between $16.875 and $19.6875, the number of shares of Southern Union
common stock will be adjusted so that each share of Fall River Gas' common
stock will be exchanged for Southern Union common stock having a value
equal to $23.50 divided by the average trading price during the period of
time described above.
- Below $16.875, but at least $15.00, the number of shares of Southern Union
common stock will be fixed at 1.39259 for each share of Fall River Gas
common stock.
- Below $15.00, Fall River Gas has the option to terminate the Fall River
Gas merger agreement. If Fall River Gas does not terminate the merger
agreement, Fall River Gas stockholders will receive 1.39259 shares of
Southern Union common stock per share of Fall River Gas common stock.
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
The Fall River Gas merger agreement contains certain substantially mutual
representations and warranties made by Southern Union and Fall River Gas to
each other, relating to, among other things:
- corporate organization, existence, qualification, standing and power;
- capitalization;
- subsidiaries and investments;
- authorization, execution, delivery, performance and enforceability of the
Fall River Gas merger agreement, and absence of violations, breaches or
defaults under organizational documents, certain agreements and government
orders as a result of execution, delivery and performance of the Fall
River Gas merger agreement;
- governmental approvals and authorizations necessary to complete the Fall
River Gas merger;
- public utility holding company status and regulation as a public utility;
- absence of violations of applicable legal requirements and material
compliance with governmental authorizations;
- legal proceedings;
- documents filed by each of Southern Union and Fall River Gas with the SEC;
- tax matters;
- intellectual property matters;
- disclosure of indebtedness;
- absence of defaults under material contracts;
- employee benefit matters;
- environmental matters;
- absence of material adverse changes since specified balance sheet dates;
- broker's or finder's fees;
- information provided for inclusion in the Fall River proxy statement,
Southern Union's proxy statement and the registration statement; and
- required stockholder votes in connection with the Fall River Gas merger.
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In addition, Fall River Gas has made representations and warranties to
Southern Union relating to:
- title to assets;
- machinery and equipment;
- insurance policies;
- labor and employment matters;
- regulatory proceedings; and
- delivery of a fairness opinion of Legg Mason Wood Walker, Incorporated.
COVENANTS AND OTHER AGREEMENTS
Each of Southern Union and Fall River Gas has undertaken certain covenants and
other agreements in the Fall River Gas merger agreement. The following
summarizes the more significant of these covenants:
INTERIM OPERATIONS. In the Fall River Gas merger agreement, Southern Union and
Fall River Gas have agreed that, except as provided by the Fall River Gas
merger agreement or as consented to by the other party, during the period from
the date of the merger agreement until the effective time, each of Southern
Union and Fall River Gas and its subsidiary will:
- not make or permit any material change in the general nature of its
business;
- maintain its ordinary course of business (for Southern Union, only with
respect to its present operations) in accordance with prudent business
judgment and consistent with past practice and policy, and maintain its
assets in good repair, order and condition, reasonable wear and tear
excepted, subject to retirements in the ordinary course of business;
- preserve its ongoing business and use reasonable efforts to maintain its
goodwill; and
- preserve its franchises, tariffs, certificates of public convenience and
necessity, licenses, authorizations and other governmental rights and
permits.
In addition, except as provided by the Fall River Gas merger agreement or as
consented to by Southern Union, during the period from the date of the merger
agreement until the effective time, Fall River Gas and its subsidiary will:
- not enter into any material transaction or contract other than in the
ordinary course of business;
- not purchase, sell, lease, dispose of or otherwise transfer or subject to
lien, any of its assets other than in the ordinary course of business;
- not hire any new employee unless the employee is a bona fide replacement
for a presently-filled position;
- not file any material applications, petitions, motions, orders, briefs,
settlements or agreements in any material proceeding or related appeal
before a government body;
- not engage in any new or modify any existing material intercompany
transactions, except in the ordinary course of business, involving any
subsidiary of Fall River Gas;
- not voluntarily change in any material respect or terminate any of Fall
River Gas' insurance policies unless equivalent coverage is obtained;
- not make any capital expenditure or capital expenditure commitment;
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- not make any changes in financial policies or practices, or strategic or
operating policies or practices, subject to adjustments in the ordinary
course of business and other deviations (which in the aggregate will not
exceed 5% on an annualized basis during the period from the date the Fall
River Gas merger agreement was signed until the completion of the Fall
River Gas merger);
- comply in all material respects with all applicable legal requirements and
permits;
- not adopt, amend or assume an obligation to contribute to any of Fall
River Gas' employee benefit plans or collective bargaining agreements or
enter into any employment, severance or similar contract or amend any such
existing contracts;
- not grant any increase or change in total compensation, benefits or pay
any bonus to any employees, directors or consultants, except in the
ordinary course of business or in accordance with the terms of any
existing contract, employee benefit plan of Fall River Gas or collective
bargaining agreement;
- not grant or enter into or extend the term of any contract, written or
oral, with respect to continued employment for any employee, officer,
director or consultant;
- not make any loan or advance to any officer, director, stockholder,
employee, individual or entity other than in the ordinary course of
business;
- not terminate any existing, enter into any new, gas purchase, exchange,
storage, supply or transportation contract or renew, extend or negotiate
any existing gas purchase, exchange, storage, supply or transportation
contract that is not terminable within sixty days without penalty;
- not amend its organizational documents; and
- not issue or assume any note, debenture or other evidence of indebtedness
which by its terms does not mature within one year.
FALL RIVER GAS SPECIAL MEETING; SOLICITATION OF PROXIES. Fall River Gas has
agreed:
- to use its reasonable best efforts to solicit from its stockholders
proxies in favor of the Fall River Gas merger;
- to take all steps necessary to duly call, give notice of, convene and hold
a meeting of its stockholders for the purpose of securing the approval and
adoption of the Fall River Gas merger agreement and the consummation of
transactions related to the Fall River Gas merger agreement by its
stockholders;
- to distribute proxy statements to its stockholders in accordance with
applicable federal and state law and its organizational documents; and
- to recommend to its stockholders the approval of the Fall River Gas merger
agreement, subject to the fiduciary duties of its board of directors.
FALL RIVER GAS VOTING AGREEMENT. In connection with the Fall River Gas merger,
Barbara N. Jarabek, as Managing General Partner to The Jarabek Family Limited
Partnership, Ronald J. Ferris, Bradford J. Faxon, Raymond H. Faxon, Cindy L.J.
Audette, Gilbert C. Oliveira, Jr. and Thomas H. Bilodeau entered into a voting
agreement with Southern Union. According to the terms of the voting agreement,
these stockholders agreed: 1) to vote or cause to be voted their shares of
Fall River Gas common stock in favor of the Fall River Gas merger and the
adoption and approval of the Fall River Gas merger agreement, and 2) to grant
Southern Union an irrevocable proxy to vote their shares of Fall River Gas
common stock for the approval and adoption by the Fall River Gas stockholders
of the Fall River Gas merger agreement and the performance of transactions
related to the Fall River Gas merger. As of the special meeting record date,
the number of shares beneficially owned by the Fall River Gas stockholders who
entered the voting agreement and granted this irrevocable proxy represent
approximately 25.6% of the outstanding shares of Fall River Gas common stock
entitled to vote on the approval and adoption of the Fall River Gas merger
agreement and performance of transactions related to the Fall River Gas merger
agreement.
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Of the 572,510 shares of Fall River Gas common stock represented by the
stockholders who are parties to the voting agreement, as of May 31, 2000,
276,800 shares were beneficially owned by executive officers and directors of
Fall River Gas. The voting agreement is attached as Appendix B to this proxy
statement.
EMPLOYEES; BENEFITS. For employees (excluding unionized employees) of Fall
River Gas and its subsidiary, Southern Union has agreed:
- to provide such employees who continue their service with Southern Union
with benefits no less favorable in the aggregate than the benefits
provided under Fall River Gas' benefit plans during the 12 months
immediately following the closing date;
- to recognize, for purposes of eligibility, vesting and benefit accrual
under all benefit plans provided to such employees after the closing date,
the tenure of employment, as recognized by Fall River Gas or of its
subsidiary as of the closing date;
- that all vacation time earned by such employees prior to the closing date
must be taken by the end of the calendar year of the closing date, except
where Fall River Gas or Southern Union requests that an employee forgo his
or her vacation for business-related reasons; and
- to recognize, for purposes of awarding vacation time at the beginning of
each calendar year following the closing date, the tenure of employment,
as recognized by Fall River Gas or of its subsidiary as of the closing
date.
Southern Union has also agreed to assume, at the effective time, all
collective bargaining agreements covering employees of Fall River Gas and its
subsidiary, and to discharge when due any and all liabilities of Fall River
Gas and its subsidiary under the collective bargaining agreements relating to
periods after the effective time.
CERTAIN OTHER COVENANTS AND AGREEMENTS. The Fall River Gas merger agreement
contains certain mutual covenants and other agreements of the parties,
including covenants and other agreements relating to: filings with the SEC;
access to offices, properties, financial statements and other records; use of
reasonable efforts to obtain all necessary consents; approvals and waivers
from governmental bodies and other third parties; and certain further
assurances.
The Fall River Gas merger agreement also contains additional covenants by Fall
River Gas to, except as provided in that agreement:
- permit Southern Union to insert preprinted single-page customer education
materials into billing documentation to be delivered to customers affected
by the Fall River Gas merger agreement;
- not declare or pay or permit its subsidiary to declare or pay any
dividends, or make other distributions in respect of Fall River Gas' or
its subsidiary's capital stock, except for regular dividends on Fall River
Gas common stock;
- not redeem or repurchase or otherwise acquire any shares of its capital
stock or the capital stock of its subsidiary other than in connection with
the administration of employee benefit and dividend reinvestment and
customer stock purchase plans that were in effect on October 4, 1999;
- not split, combine, reclassify, issue or encumber or permit its subsidiary
to split, combine, reclassify, issue or encumber any shares of its capital
stock or securities convertible into any such shares;
- not make any changes or permit its subsidiary to make changes in its
accounting methods, principles or practices except as required by law,
rule, regulation or generally accepted accounting principles;
- identify persons who are "affiliates" of Fall River Gas within the meaning
of Rule 145 under the Securities Act and to use its reasonable efforts to
provide to Southern Union letters from such persons to the effect that
they will not dispose of their shares of Southern Union common stock
received in the Fall River Gas merger except in accordance with the
applicable provisions of Rule 145 or in a transaction exempt from
registration under he Securities Act ("Rule 145 Letters");
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- cooperate and cause its subsidiaries to cooperate with Southern Union's
requests with respect to the refinancing, repurchase, redemption or
repayment of indebtedness of Fall River Gas or its subsidiary as may be
required or that Southern Union may request prior to the merger;
- except in certain instances, not initiate or encourage any inquiry or
proposal about mergers with other parties, sales of substantial assets,
sales of shares representing a majority or greater interest in Fall River
Gas or its subsidiary or other business combinations or, except in certain
instances, negotiate, discuss, approve or recommend any such alternative
acquisition proposal (see "--No Solicitation by Fall River Gas"); and
- obtain consents for the merger from all holders of each series of First
Mortgage Bonds issued and outstanding under the Indenture of First
Mortgages, dated as of December 1, 1952, between Fall River Gas and State
Street Bank and Trust Company ("Fall River Gas Indenture".)
The Fall River Gas merger agreement also contains certain additional covenants
of Southern Union to, except as provided in that agreement:
- use its reasonable best efforts to obtain, prior to the effective date of
the merger agreement, all necessary state securities laws or "blue sky"
permits and approvals and pay all related expenses; and
- cause the shares of Southern Union's common stock required to be reserved
for issuance in connection with the Fall River Gas merger to be listed on
the NYSE.
INDEMNIFICATION AND INSURANCE FOR FALL RIVER GAS OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS
Southern Union agreed for a period of six years after the effective time of
the Fall River Gas merger:
- to indemnify and hold harmless the present and former officers and
directors of Fall River Gas and its subsidiary in respect of acts or
omissions occurring prior to the effective time to the extent provided
under Fall River Gas' articles of incorporation and bylaws, and
- to use its reasonable best efforts to provide officers' and directors'
liability insurance for acts and omissions occurring before the effective
time on terms with respect to coverage and amount that are no less
favorable than the terms in effect on the date of the Fall River Gas
merger agreement, but if the annual premiums are more than 200% of the
previous year's premiums paid by Fall River Gas, Southern Union must
obtain a policy with best coverage available, in the reasonable judgment
of the board of directors of Southern Union, for a cost not exceeding that
amount.
See "The Fall River Gas Merger - Interests of Fall River Gas Officers and
Directors in the Fall River Gas Merger."
NO SOLICITATION BY FALL RIVER GAS
The Fall River Gas merger agreement provides that Fall River Gas must
terminate all existing discussions or negotiations with third parties, if any,
with respect to a "Business Combination," as define below, and that Fall River
Gas may not, and may not authorize or permit its or its subsidiary's officers,
directors, agents, financial advisors, attorneys, accountants or other
representatives to, directly or indirectly:
- solicit, initiate or encourage submission of proposals or offers relating
to, or that could reasonably be expected to lead to, a Business
Combination; or
- participate in any negotiations or discussions regarding, furnish to any
person any information with respect to, or otherwise cooperate, assist,
participate in, facilitate or encourage any effort or attempt by any other
person to do or seek, a Business Combination.
A "Business Combination" is, except as provided in the Fall River Gas merger
agreement:
- a merger, consolidation or other business combination, share exchange,
sale of shares of capital stock, tender offer or exchange offer or similar
transaction involving Fall River Gas or its subsidiary;
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- the acquisition in any manner, directly or indirectly, of a material
interest in any capital stock of, or a material equity interest in a
substantial portion of the assets of, Fall River Gas or of its subsidiary,
including any single or multi-step transaction or series of related
transactions that is structured to permit a third party to acquire
beneficial ownership of a majority or greater equity interest in Fall
River Gas or its subsidiary; or
- the acquisition in any manner, directly or indirectly, of any material
portion of the business or assets (other than immaterial or insubstantial
assets or inventory in the ordinary course of business or assets held for
sale) of Fall River Gas or its subsidiary.
Prior to receiving the approval of the Fall River Gas merger by Fall River Gas
stockholders, if the Fall River Gas board of directors receives an unsolicited
written proposal from a third party with respect to a Business Combination
that the Fall River Gas board of directors determines, in its good faith
judgment, after consulting with its financial advisor and outside counsel,
with customary qualifications, is a "Superior Proposal," which we define
below, Fall River Gas may:
- furnish information to, and negotiate, explore or otherwise engage in
substantive discussions with the third party that submitted the
unsolicited Superior Proposal if the Fall River Gas board determines that
it is reasonably necessary to engage in such discussions in order to
comply with its fiduciary duties under applicable law; and
- take and disclose to Fall River Gas' stockholders a position with respect
to another Business Combination proposal, or amend or withdraw such
position, pursuant to Rule 14d-9 and 14e-2 under the Exchange Act, or make
such disclosure to Fall River Gas' stockholders which in the good faith
judgment of the Fall River Gas board of directors is required by
applicable law, based on the advice of its outside counsel.
A proposed Business Combination is a "Superior Proposal" if it involves at
least 50% of the shares of capital stock or a material portion of the assets
of Fall River Gas and the Fall River Gas board determines, after consulting
with Fall River Gas' financial advisor and outside counsel, that:
- the proposal is financially superior to the Fall River Gas merger; and
- it appears that the party making the proposal is reasonably likely to have
the funds necessary to consummate the Business Combination.
The Fall River Gas merger agreement also prohibits the Fall River Gas board
from withdrawing or modifying, or proposing publicly to withdraw or modify, in
a manner adverse to Southern Union, its approval or recommendation of the
merger agreement or the merger, approving or recommending, or proposing
publicly to approve or recommend, a Business Combination, or causing Fall
River Gas to enter into any letter of intent, agreement in principle,
acquisition agreement or other similar agreement related to any Business
Combination unless the following conditions are satisfied:
- the Fall River Gas board determines, in its good faith judgment, after
consulting with its financial advisor and outside counsel, that an
unsolicited proposal regarding a Business Combination is a Superior
Proposal; and
- the Fall River Gas board determines, in its good faith judgment, after
consulting with its financial advisor and outside counsel, that the
failure to either withdraw or modify its approval or recommendation of the
Fall River Gas merger agreement or the Fall River Gas merger, approve or
recommend a Business Combination, or cause Fall River Gas to enter into
any agreement related to any Business Combination would create a
reasonable possibility of a breach of the fiduciary duties of the Fall
River Gas board under applicable law.
Fall River Gas must promptly notify Southern Union of the receipt of any
alternative acquisition proposal regarding a Business Combination, the
material terms and conditions of any such proposal, the identity of the person
or entity making the proposal and the status and details of any such request
or proposal within one business day of Fall River Gas' receipt of any such
proposal. Fall River Gas is required to use all reasonable efforts to keep
Southern Union informed of the status and details of any such inquiry, offer
or proposal and provide notice, consisting of two days, to Southern Union
prior to the first delivery of non-public information to any such person or
entity. If any such inquiry, offer or proposal is in writing, Fall River Gas
has agreed to promptly deliver to Southern Union a copy of such inquiry, offer
or proposal. If Fall River Gas decides to accept such a Business Combination
proposal and enter into a definitive agreement with respect to such proposal,
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Fall River Gas must give Southern Union notice, consisting of five business
days, of its intent to enter into a definitive agreement. In addition, during
this five-day period, Fall River Gas must give Southern Union an opportunity
to adjust the terms of the Fall River Gas merger agreement so that the parties
can proceed with the Fall River Gas merger and negotiate in good faith with
Southern Union with respect to any such adjustments. Concurrently with the
termination of the Fall River Gas merger agreement in connection with a
Business Combination, Fall River Gas must also pay the required termination
fee (see "-- Termination of the Fall River Gas Merger Agreement" and "--
Termination Fees and Expenses -- Fall River Gas Termination Fee").
Prior to furnishing any non-public information to, entering into negotiations
with or accepting a Superior Proposal from a third party, Fall River Gas will
provide written notice to Southern Union to the effect that it is furnishing
information to or entering into discussions or negotiations with such third
party and receive from such third party an executed confidentiality agreement
containing substantially the same terms and conditions as the confidentiality
agreement between Fall River Gas and Southern Union.
CONDITIONS TO THE COMPLETION OF THE FALL RIVER GAS MERGER
MUTUAL CLOSING CONDITIONS. The obligations of Southern Union and Fall River
Gas to complete the Fall River Gas merger are subject to the satisfaction or,
to the extent legally permissible and permitted by the Fall River Gas merger
agreement, waiver of the following conditions:
- Accuracy as of the closing date of the representations and warranties made
by the other party to the extent specified in the merger agreement.
- Performance in all material respects by the other party of the obligations
required to be performed by it at or before the closing date.
- All governmental approvals required in order to complete the merger having
been obtained without conditions that would be reasonably likely to be
materially adverse to Fall River Gas' or Southern Union's businesses,
operations, properties, financial condition, or results of operations. To
facilitate obtaining the approval of the transaction by the Massachusetts
Department of Telecommunications and Energy, Southern Union is seeking
approval of the transaction by holders of two-thirds of the outstanding
shares of Southern Union common stock.
- No court, administrative agency, governmental body or arbitrator having
issued an order to restrain, enjoin or otherwise prevent the consummation
of the Fall River Gas merger agreement or the merger.
- Southern Union's registration statement on Form S-4, being effective and
not subject to any stop order by the SEC.
- Authorization for listing on the NYSE of the shares of Southern Union
common stock to be issued in the Fall River Gas merger.
ADDITIONAL CLOSING CONDITIONS FOR SOUTHERN UNION'S BENEFIT. Southern Union's
obligation to complete the Fall River Gas merger is subject to the following
additional conditions:
- Receipt of third party consents required to consummate the Fall River Gas
merger, other than any consents which, if not obtained, are not,
individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to result in a
material adverse effect on the business, operations, properties, financial
condition or results of operations of Fall River Gas and its subsidiary
after the closing.
- Receipt of all consents and approvals required, under the terms of any
note, bond or indenture to which Fall River Gas or of its subsidiary is a
party.
- The resignation of each director of Fall River Gas or its subsidiary of
his or her position as a director of Fall River Gas or its subsidiary
effective as of the closing date.
- The receipt by Southern Union on the closing date of an opinion of its
counsel to the effect that the Fall River Gas merger will constitute a
"reorganization" within the meaning of Section 368(a)(1)(A) of the
Internal Revenue Code, and that no gain or loss will be recognized by
Southern Union or Fall River Gas with respect to the merger.
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- Each of the individuals and entities who are "affiliates" of Fall River
Gas within the meaning of Rule 145 have delivered to Southern Union a
Rule 145 Letter.
- Receipt of all consents required and necessary to approve any amendments
requested by Southern Union to the Fall River Gas Indenture, from the
holders of each series of First Mortgage Bonds issued and outstanding
under the Indenture.
ADDITIONAL CLOSING CONDITION FOR FALL RIVER GAS' BENEFIT. Fall River Gas'
obligation to complete the Fall River Gas merger is subject to the additional
condition that on the closing date, Fall River Gas shall have received an
opinion of its counsel to the effect that the merger will be treated for
federal income tax purposes as a "reorganization" within the meaning of
Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue Code, and that no gain or loss will be
recognized for federal income tax purposes by the stockholders of Fall River
Gas upon their receipt of the merger consideration, except that any realized
gain will be recognized to the extent of the amount of cash received.
AMENDMENT OF THE FALL RIVER GAS MERGER AGREEMENT
Fall River Gas and Southern Union may amend in writing the terms of the Fall
River Gas merger agreement before the closing.
TERMINATION OF THE FALL RIVER GAS MERGER AGREEMENT
The Fall River Gas merger agreement may be terminated at any time before the
closing:
- by mutual written consent of Southern Union and Fall River Gas;
- by either Fall River Gas or Southern Union:
- if a court issues a non-appealable order that prohibits the
consummation of the merger; or
- at any time after 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time on October 15, 2000, if
the closing of the Fall River Gas merger has not occurred and the
party asserting its right to terminate is not in material breach
of its representations, warranties, covenants or agreements
contained in the Fall River Gas merger agreement; however, this
date will be extended to February 28, 2001, even though all other
conditions to the closing of the merger have been fulfilled or
are capable of being fulfilled if: (i) all approvals, consents,
opinions, rulings or authorizations of any federal state and
local governmental agencies required in order to consummate the
merger have not been obtained or become a final order or (ii) the
applicable waiting period under the HSR Act relating to the
merger has not expired or been terminated;
- by Southern Union if:
- there is a breach of any representation, warranty, covenant or
agreement of Fall River Gas, where the breach cannot be cured and
would make the representations and warranties of Fall River Gas
substantially inaccurate;
- less than two-thirds of the holders of the outstanding common stock of
Fall River Gas vote to approve the merger and there has not been a
material misrepresentation or a material breach by Southern Union of
any of its covenants, warranties or agreements contained in the Fall
River Gas merger agreement;
- the Fall River Gas board or any committee thereof: (i) withdraws
or modifies, or proposes publicly to withdraw or modify, in a
manner adverse to Southern Union, its approval or recommendation
of the Fall River Gas merger agreement or the merger, (ii)
approves or recommends, or proposes publicly to approve or
recommend, a Business Combination, (iii) causes Fall River Gas to
enter into a definitive agreement related to any Business
Combination or (iv) resolves to take any of the foregoing
actions; or
- a third party, including a group (as defined under the Exchange Act),
acquires securities representing greater than 50% of the voting power
of the outstanding voting securities of Fall River Gas; and
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- by Fall River Gas if:
- there is a breach of any representation, warranty, covenant or
agreement of Southern Union, where the breach cannot be cured and
would make Southern Union's representations and warranties materially
inaccurate;
- (i) Fall River Gas gives Southern Union at least five business days'
notice of its intent to enter into a definitive agreement with
respect to a Business Combination proposal, and during this five-day
period gives Southern Union an opportunity to adjust the terms of the
Fall River Gas merger agreement so that the parties can proceed with
the merger and negotiate in good faith with Southern Union with
respect to any such adjustments, and (ii) Fall River Gas has paid the
required termination fees and (iii) Fall River Gas has entered into a
definitive agreement with respect to a Business Combination proposal;
- less than two-thirds of the holders of Fall River Gas' outstanding
common stock approve the Fall River Gas merger agreement and there has
not been a material misrepresentation or a material breach by Fall
River Gas of any of its covenants, warranties or agreements contained
in the merger agreement; or
- the average trading price of Southern Union common stock as of
the closing date is lower than $15.00. For this purpose,
"average trading price" means the average of the reported closing
prices of Southern Union common stock on the NYSE for the ten
consecutive trading days ending on the third trading day before
the closing date (counting from and including the trading day
immediately before the closing date). The closing price for each
day in question will be the last sale price, regular way, or, if
no sale takes place on that day, the average of the closing bid
and asked prices, regular way.
If the Fall River Gas merger agreement is validly terminated, no provision of
the merger agreement will survive (except for the provisions relating to
expenses, termination fees and miscellaneous provisions of general
application) and termination shall be without any liability on the part of any
party, unless such party is negligent or in willful breach of any provision of
the merger agreement.
TERMINATION FEES AND EXPENSES
PAYMENT OF THE MERGER EXPENSES GENERALLY. Each of Fall River Gas and Southern
Union will pay all costs and expenses of its performance of and compliance
with the Fall River Gas merger agreement except as expressly provided in the
merger agreement and as follows:
- Fall River Gas will pay the costs and expenses (including legal fees and
expenses) in connection with any action, including the filing of any
lawsuit or other legal action, taken by Southern Union to collect the
termination fee payable to Southern Union under the Fall River Gas merger
agreement, together with interest on the amount of any portion of the
unpaid termination fee. This interest will be calculated using an annual
percentage rate of interest equal to the prime rate published in THE WALL
STREET JOURNAL on the date (or preceding business day if this date is not
a business day) the fee was required to be paid, compounded on a daily
basis using a 360-day year;
- Fall River Gas will pay all fees and expenses of counsel for Fall River
Gas;
- Southern Union will pay all real estate transfer taxes and real estate
recording fees, if any, including expenses of counsel associated with real
estate title, transfer and recording issues in connection with the Fall
River Gas merger, and all filing and application fees paid to federal,
state or local government agencies in connection with the merger; and
- Southern Union and Fall River Gas will each pay half of the combined costs
of printing and mailing a proxy statement/ prospectus to Fall River Gas'
stockholders.
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FALL RIVER GAS TERMINATION FEE. Fall River Gas has agreed to pay Southern
Union $1.5 million in cash if:
- Fall River Gas provides Southern Union at least five business days' notice
of its intent to terminate the Fall River Gas merger agreement and has
entered into a definitive agreement with respect to a Business Combination
proposal;
- Southern Union terminates the Fall River Gas merger agreement because the
Fall River Gas board or any committee thereof has (i) withdrawn or
modified, or proposed publicly to withdraw or modify, in a manner adverse
to Southern Union, its approval or recommendation of the Fall River Gas
merger agreement, (ii) approved or recommended, or proposed publicly to
approve or recommend, a Business Combination, (iii) caused Fall River Gas
to enter into a definitive agreement related to any Business Combination;
or
- Southern Union terminates the Fall River Gas merger agreement because a
third party, including a group (as defined under the Exchange Act), has
acquired securities representing greater than 50% of the voting power of
the outstanding voting securities of Fall River Gas.
THE PROVENERGY MERGER AGREEMENT
This section is a summary of the material terms of the ProvEnergy merger
agreement, a copy of which is attached as Appendix C to this document. The
following description does not purport to be complete and is qualified in its
entirety by reference to the merger agreement. You should refer to the full
text of the ProvEnergy merger agreement for details of the ProvEnergy merger
and the terms and conditions of the ProvEnergy merger agreement.
STRUCTURE OF THE MERGER
On the closing date, GUS, a direct, wholly owned subsidiary of Southern Union,
will be merged into ProvEnergy in accordance with the laws of Rhode Island.
ProvEnergy will be the surviving corporation of this initial merger, which we
may refer to as the "surviving corporation."
Immediately after the initial merger, ProvEnergy will adopt an agreement and
plan of merger pursuant to which North Attleboro Gas, a wholly owned utility
subsidiary of ProvEnergy, will merge with and into ProvEnergy on the closing
date, with ProvEnergy being the surviving corporation, by complying with the
requirements of laws of Rhode Island and Massachusetts (the "Attleboro
Merger"). Immediately following the consummation of the Attleboro Merger,
ProvEnergy will adopt an agreement and plan of merger pursuant to which
Providence Gas, another wholly owned utility subsidiary of ProvEnergy, will
merge with and into ProvEnergy on the closing date with ProvEnergy being the
surviving corporation, by complying with the requirements of Rhode Island law
(the "ProvGas Merger"). Immediately following the consummation of the ProvGas
Merger, Southern Union will adopt an agreement and plan of merger pursuant to
which ProvEnergy will merge with and into Southern Union on the closing date,
with Southern Union being the surviving corporation, by complying with the
requirements of Rhode Island and Delaware law (the "final merger"). The
initial merger, the ProvGas Merger, the Attleboro Merger and the final merger,
collectively, are referred to in this proxy statement as the "ProvEnergy
merger."
Southern Union's existing charter and bylaws will remain in effect after the
ProvEnergy merger, and Southern Union's management and board of directors will
remain the same as a result of the ProvEnergy merger, except as otherwise
described in this proxy statement. See "Possible Effects of the Mergers on
Southern Union Stockholder Rights."
As a result of the ProvEnergy merger, ProvEnergy and its two utility
subsidiaries, Providence Gas and North Attleboro Gas, will become two
divisions of Southern Union with the operations of Providence Gas in one
division and the operations of North Attleboro Gas in the other division. The
non-regulated subsidiaries of ProvEnergy will become subsidiaries of Southern
Union.
CLOSING; EFFECTIVE TIME
On the closing date of the ProvEnergy merger, duly executed Articles of Merger
will be filed with the Secretary of State of Rhode Island complying with the
requirements of the Rhode Island Business Corporation Act. The initial merger
will become effective when the Secretary of State of Rhode Island issues a
Certificate of Merger. Immediately after the initial merger, Articles of
Merger for the Attleboro merger will be filed with the State Secretary of
Massachusetts and the Secretary of State of Rhode Island. After the
effectiveness of the Attleboro merger, Articles of Merger for the ProvGas
merger will be
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filed with the Secretary of State of Rhode Island. Immediately after the
effectiveness of the ProvGas merger, Articles of Merger for the final merger
will be filed with the Secretary of State of Rhode Island and Delaware.
PROVENERGY MERGER CONSIDERATION
When the merger of GUS (Southern Union's acquisition subsidiary) into
ProvEnergy is completed, each share of ProvEnergy common stock will be
cancelled and ProvEnergy stockholders will receive $42.50 in cash for each
share of ProvEnergy common stock they own.
PROVIDENCE GAS PREFERRED STOCK
In accordance with the Certificate of Authorization for the 8.70% redeemable
cumulative preferred stock of Providence Gas, which we refer to as Providence
Gas preferred stock, ProvEnergy has caused Providence Gas to:
- redeem 16,000 shares of its preferred stock on February 15, 2000 pursuant
to its sinking fund, and
- redeem 16,000 shares of its preferred stock on March 1, 2000.
No shares of ProvEnergy preferred stock remain outstanding after these
redemptions, as required by the ProvEnergy merger agreement.
PROVIDENCE GAS INDENTURE
ProvEnergy will cause Providence Gas to use its good faith commercially
reasonable efforts to obtain, prior to the effective time of the initial
merger, the consent of the holders of at least 80% in aggregate principal
amount of all First Mortgage Bonds outstanding under the First Mortgage of
Providence Gas, which we refer to as the Providence Gas Indenture, to each of
the amendments to the Providence Gas Indenture set forth on Schedule 6.1(n) to
the ProvEnergy merger agreement. ProvEnergy and its subsidiaries, however,
will not be required to make any payment to any bondholder prior to the
effective time of the initial merger.
If the ProvEnergy merger is not completed, Southern Union and ProvEnergy will
share equally the fees and expenses incurred in connection with obtaining
these consents. If the ProvEnergy merger agreement is terminated because one
party has breached its obligations under the merger agreement, the breaching
party will bear all of the fees and expenses incurred.
STOCK OPTIONS AND PERFORMANCE SHARES
Each ProvEnergy performance share awarded under a ProvEnergy incentive plan at
the effective time of the initial merger will be deemed fully earned and
converted into a right to receive $42.50 in cash.
In addition, each outstanding stock option will be deemed fully vested and
will be converted into a right to receive a cash payment for each share of
ProvEnergy common stock subject to option in an amount equal to the amount by
which $42.50 exceeds the exercise price of such option (if the exercise price
is less than $42.50).
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
PROVENERGY
The ProvEnergy merger agreement contains representations and warranties made
by ProvEnergy to Southern Union, including representations and warranties
relating to:
- organization, existence and qualification;
- capitalization;
- due authorization of the ProvEnergy merger agreement;
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- absence of conflicts between organizational documents, laws and
agreements and the transactions contemplated by the ProvEnergy merger
agreement;
- governmental approvals in connection with the transactions under the
ProvEnergy merger agreement;
- regulation under the Public Utility Holding Company Act and as a public
utility under state laws;
- compliance with all legal requirements and governmental authorizations;
- litigation and regulatory proceedings;
- filings with the SEC and financial statements;
- tax matters;
- intellectual property;
- title to assets and condition of machinery and equipment;
- indebtedness;
- employees and employee benefit plans;
- material contracts and insurance;
- environmental matters;
- the absence of material adverse changes since September 30, 1999;
- brokers and finder fees with respect to the ProvEnergy merger;
- stock rights agreement;
- board of directors approval and required shareholder vote; and
- receipt of fairness opinions.
SOUTHERN UNION AND GUS
The ProvEnergy merger agreement contains representations and warranties made
by Southern Union and GUS to ProvEnergy, including representations and
warranties relating to:
- organization, existence and qualification;
- due authorization of the ProvEnergy merger agreement;
- absence of conflicts between organizational documents, laws and
agreements and the transactions contemplated by the ProvEnergy merger
agreement;
- governmental approvals in connection with the transactions under the
ProvEnergy merger agreement;
- regulation under the Public Utility Holding Company Act and as a public
utility under state laws;
- litigation; and
- brokers with respect to the ProvEnergy merger agreement.
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All representations and warranties made by ProvEnergy, Southern Union and GUS
expire at the effective time of the initial merger.
COVENANTS AND OTHER AGREEMENTS, INCLUDING POST-CLOSING COMMITMENTS
INTERIM OPERATIONS. ProvEnergy has agreed that, prior to the closing of the
ProvEnergy merger, except as otherwise permitted by the ProvEnergy merger
agreement or consented to by Southern Union, which consent will not be
unreasonably withheld or delayed, it and its subsidiaries will:
- not make or permit any material change in the general nature of its
business;
- maintain its ordinary course of business in accordance with prudent
business judgment and consistent with past practice and policy, and
maintain consistent with its ordinary course of business its assets in
good repair, order and condition, reasonable wear and tear excepted,
subject to retirement in the ordinary course of business;
- use reasonable efforts to preserve itself as an ongoing business and to
maintain its goodwill;
- preserve all franchises, tariffs, certificates of public convenience and
necessity, licenses, authorizations, and other governmental rights and
permits;
- not enter into any material transaction or material contract other than in
the ordinary course of business;
- not purchase, sell, lease, dispose of or otherwise transfer, or subject to
a lien, any of its assets other than in the ordinary course of business;
- not hire new employees other than in the ordinary course of business;
- not file any material applications, petitions, motions, orders, briefs,
settlements or agreements in any material proceeding before any
governmental body without, to the extent reasonably practicable,
consulting Southern Union;
- not engage in or modify, except in the ordinary course of business, any
material intercompany transactions;
- not voluntarily change in any material respect or terminate any insurance
policies presently in effect unless equivalent coverage is obtained;
- not make any capital expenditures except budgeted expenditures;
- not make any changes in financial policies or practices;
- comply in all material respects with all applicable material legal
requirements and permits, other than those contested in good faith;
- not adopt, amend or assume an obligation to contribute to any benefit plan
or collective bargaining agreement or enter into or extend the term of any
employment, consulting, severance or similar contract, or amend existing
contracts to increase amounts payable or benefits provided thereunder;
- not grant an increase or change in total compensation or benefits, or pay
any bonus to any employee, except in the ordinary course of business or as
required by the terms of any existing contract;
- not make any loan or advance to any officer, director, stockholder,
employee or other person other than in the ordinary course of business;
- not terminate any existing gas purchase, exchange or transportation
contract necessary to supply firm gas at all city gate delivery points or
enter into any new contract for the supply, transportation, storage or
exchange of gas, other than in the ordinary course of business;
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- not amend its organizational documents; and
- not issue or assume any note, debenture or other evidence of indebtedness,
other than as specified under the ProvEnergy merger agreement.
The foregoing covenants are subject to certain specified exceptions, including
that Providence Gas may take any commercially reasonable action that
ProvEnergy determines in good faith, after consulting with Southern Union,
should be taken by Providence Gas in order to obtain the consent to the
proposed amendments to the Providence Gas Indenture.
Southern Union has consented to not restricting the ability of ProvEnergy to:
- enter into any gas supply contract in the ordinary course of business,
except if the term of the proposed contract is longer than three years, in
which case ProvEnergy must consult in good faith with Southern Union, and
- acquire non-regulated businesses, provided that the acquisitions are
consistent with ProvEnergy's business plan and the purchase price of all
acquisitions does not exceed $15,000,000 in the aggregate.
PROVENERGY SPECIAL MEETING; SOLICITATION OF PROXIES. Subject to the fiduciary
duties of the board of directors, ProvEnergy agreed to recommend to its
shareholders the approval of the ProvEnergy merger agreement and the
transactions contemplated thereby. On May 22, 2000, the stockholders of
ProvEnergy approved the terms of the ProvEnergy merger.
DIVIDENDS. ProvEnergy agreed that it will not declare any dividends on its
capital stock, or permit its subsidiaries to declare any dividend in capital
stock, other than quarterly dividends not to exceed $1.08 per share per fiscal
year on ProvEnergy's common stock and cumulative cash distributions on the
preferred stock of Providence Gas at an annual rate of $8.70 per share.
GOVERNMENTAL APPROVALS AND THIRD PARTY CONSENTS. ProvEnergy and Southern Union
each agreed to use its commercially reasonable best efforts at its sole
expense to obtain all necessary consents, approvals and waivers required in
connection with the transactions contemplated by the ProvEnergy merger
agreement.
EMPLOYEES; BENEFITS. Southern Union has agreed that following the effective
time of the initial merger it will assume and maintain for their respective
terms all employment and change in control agreements of ProvEnergy in effect
as of that time. In addition, simultaneously with the execution of the
ProvEnergy merger agreement, Southern Union entered into an employment
agreement with Mr. James Dodge and an amendment to the existing employment
agreement with Mr. James DeMetro, both of which will become effective as of
the effective time of the initial merger. See the summary of employment
agreements above under "The ProvEnergy Merger -- Interests of ProvEnergy
Officers and Directors in the ProvEnergy Merger".
Southern Union has agreed that, during the 24 month period immediately
following the closing date, it will:
- maintain base salary levels, bonus opportunity levels and overall employee
benefits, with specified exceptions, that are no less favorable in the
aggregate than those currently provided,
- maintain all qualified and non-qualified defined benefit pension plans
without adverse amendment, except as may be required by law or to comply
with tax qualification nondiscrimination rules, and
- provide severance benefits on a basis no less favorable than would
otherwise be provided to employees under the applicable ProvEnergy
severance plan.
For the 24 months immediately following the above period, Southern Union has
agreed to maintain base salary levels, bonus opportunity levels and overall
employee benefits that are appropriate for the market given Southern Union's
financial circumstances, the industry in which it operates and regulatory
considerations.
Southern Union also agreed:
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- to recognize the tenure of employment of all employees with ProvEnergy and
its subsidiaries for purposes of eligibility, vesting and accrual of
benefits under all benefit plans to be provided by Southern Union,
- to recognize employees' tenure of employment for purposes of awarding
vacation time,
- to allow each employee to carry forward all accrued sick leave,
- to allow each employee who satisfies the eligibility criteria used by
Southern Union for similarly situated employees to be immediately eligible
for awards in the Southern Union Long-Term Incentive Stock Option Plan,
and
- to provide, for a period of 5 years from the closing date, retiree health
benefits substantially comparable to coverage under the current ProvEnergy
retiree medical plan to current retirees and their dependents and to
active employees and their dependents who retire within 5 years of the
closing and satisfy the plan's eligibility requirements.
Southern Union agreed that from the effective time of the initial merger until
the earlier of their resignation or removal by the President of Southern Union:
- James H. Dodge will serve as Chief Executive Officer and President of the
ProvEnergy and North Attleboro Gas divisions of Southern Union and all
other energy-related businesses of Southern Union conducted in New
England, and
- James DeMetro will serve as Executive Vice President, Energy Services, of
the ProvEnergy and North Attleboro Gas divisions of Southern Union and all
other energy-related businesses of Southern Union conducted in New
England.
Southern Union also agreed that specified individuals will serve the
ProvEnergy divisions of Southern Union from the effective time of the initial
merger until the earlier of their resignation or removal by Southern Union.
Currently, those individuals are listed below and will serve in the following
capacities:
- Kenneth W. Hogan as Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and
Treasurer,
- Susann G. Mark as Vice President and General Counsel,
- James A. Grasso as Vice President, Public Government Affairs,
- Gerald A. Yurkevicz as Vice President, Business Development and
Marketing,
- Royalynne Hourihan as Vice President, Human Resources,
- Timothy S. Lyons as Vice President, Marketing and Regulatory Affairs,
- Robert W. Owens as Senior Vice President, Gas Distribution,
- Peter J. Gill as Vice President, Information Technology,
- James M. Stephens as President of Providence Energy Services, and
- George Mason as Vice President of Providence Energy Oil.
CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS. Southern Union agreed to continue making
ProvEnergy's annual charitable contributions for three years after the initial
merger in an aggregate amount of not less than $175,000 per year.
CORPORATE OFFICES. For at least three years after the effective time of the
initial merger, Southern Union will:
- operate ProvEnergy's operations in Rhode Island and Massachusetts as
separate divisions of Southern Union,
- maintain the principal executive offices of ProvEnergy in Rhode Island,
and
- maintain the principal executive offices of ProvEnergy as the
principal executive offices of Southern Union's energy-related businesses
conducted in New England; provided, however, that Southern Union will not
be required to maintain these Rhode Island offices as the principal
executive offices for all of Southern Union's energy-related businesses
conducted in New England if Mr. James Dodge ceases to be the Chief
Executive Officer of the ProvEnergy division of Southern Union.
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INDEMNIFICATON AND INSURANCE FOR PROVENERGY OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS
Southern Union agreed for a period of six years after the effective time of
the ProvEnergy merger:
- to indemnify and hold harmless the present and former officers and
directors of ProvEnergy and its subsidiaries in respect of acts or
omissions occurring prior to the effective time to the extent provided
under ProvEnergy's articles of incorporation and bylaws, and
- to use its reasonable best efforts to provide officers' and directors'
liability insurance for acts and omissions occurring before the effective
time on terms with respect to coverage and amount that are no less
favorable than the terms in effect on the date of the ProvEnergy merger
agreement, but if the annual premiums are more than 200% of the previous
year's premiums paid by ProvEnergy, Southern Union must obtain a policy
with best coverage available, in the reasonable judgment of the board of
directors of Southern Union, for a cost not exceeding that amount.
See "The ProvEnergy Merger -- Interests of ProvEnergy Officers and Directors
in the ProvEnergy Merger."
NO SOLICITATION BY PROVENERGY
In the ProvEnergy merger agreement, ProvEnergy agreed that neither it, nor its
subsidiaries, nor any of its officers, directors, agents, financial advisors,
attorneys, accountants or other representatives will, directly or indirectly,
- solicit, initiate or encourage the submission of proposals or offers from
any person relating to, or that could reasonably be expected to lead to, a
business combination,
- participate in any negotiations or substantive discussions regarding any
business combination,
- furnish to any person any information with respect to a business
combination, or
- otherwise cooperate in any way with, or assist or participate in,
facilitate or encourage, any effort or any attempt by any third party to do
or seek a business combination.
Prior to the approval of the ProvEnergy merger agreement by ProvEnergy's
shareholders, which was obtained on May 22, 2000, ProvEnergy was permitted to,
in response to an unsolicited written proposal from a third party which the
board of directors determined, in its good faith judgment, after consultation
with and the receipt of the advice of its financial advisor and outside
counsel with customary qualifications, was a superior proposal,
- furnish information to, negotiate, explore or otherwise engage in
substantive discussions with such third party, provided ProvEnergy's board
of directors determined, in its good faith judgment after consultation
with its financial advisors and outside counsel, that it was reasonably
necessary in order to comply with its fiduciary duties under applicable
law, and
- take and disclose to ProvEnergy's shareholders a position with respect to
another business combination or make such disclosure to ProvEnergy
shareholders which in the good faith judgment of Providence Energy's board
of directors, based on advice of its outside counsel, was required by
applicable law.
When we refer to a "superior proposal," we mean
- a merger, consolidation, or other business combination, share exchange,
sale of a minimum of 2% of the outstanding shares of capital stock, tender
offer or exchange offer or similar transaction involving ProvEnergy or any
of its subsidiaries,
- an acquisition in any manner, directly or indirectly, of a material
interest in any capital stock of, or a material equity interest in a
substantial portion of the assets of ProvEnergy or any of its
subsidiaries, or
- the acquisition in any manner, directly or indirectly, of a material
portion of the business or assets of ProvEnergy and its subsidiaries which
involves at least 50% of the capital stock or a material portion of the
assets of ProvEnergy and that
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- ProvEnergy's board of directors determines, after consulting with
ProvEnergy's financial advisors and outside counsel, is financially
superior to the transactions contemplated by the ProvEnergy merger
agreement, and
- it appears that the party making the proposal is reasonably likely to
have the funds to complete the business combination.
In addition, ProvEnergy has agreed that before providing any non-public
information to any third party, or entering into negotiations with any third
party or accepting a superior proposal, ProvEnergy must:
- provide written notice to Southern Union to the effect that it is
furnishing information to or entering into discussions or negotiations
with the third party, and
- receive an executed confidentiality agreement from that third party
containing substantially the same terms and conditions as the
confidentiality agreement between ProvEnergy and Southern Union.
ProvEnergy has also agreed to terminate any existing solicitation, initiation,
encouragement, activity, discussion or negotiations with any parties conducted
before the date of the ProvEnergy merger agreement with respect to any
business combination.
CONDITIONS TO THE COMPLETION OF THE PROVENERGY MERGER
ProvEnergy and Southern Union may complete the ProvEnergy merger only if each
of the following conditions is met:
- the holders of a majority of the shares of ProvEnergy common stock
entitled to vote approve the ProvEnergy merger agreement, which approval
was obtained on May 22, 2000,
- all required governmental approvals are obtained by final order in such
form as are not, and with no conditions that are, individually or in the
aggregate, reasonably likely to have a ProvEnergy material adverse effect
or a material adverse effect on the business, financial condition or
results of operations of Southern Union, or which would otherwise, in
Southern Union's reasonable determination, be unduly burdensome to
Southern Union in a manner that would, individually or in the aggregate,
be reasonably likely to have a ProvEnergy material adverse effect or a
material adverse effect on the business, financial condition or results
of operations of Southern Union. Subsequent to the execution of the
ProvEnergy merger agreement, the issue arose as to whether Southern Union
was required under Massachusetts law to obtain the approval of the North
Attleboro merger by holders of two-thirds of the outstanding shares of
Southern Union common stock in connection with obtaining the approval of
the North Attleboro merger by the MDTE. In order to eliminate any
uncertainty concerning this issue and to facilitate the closing of the
transaction, Southern Union has advised ProvEnergy and the MDTE that it
intends to seek such approval,
- the holders of at least 80% in aggregate principal amount of all First
Mortgage Bonds outstanding consent to each of amendments to the Providence
Gas Indenture specified in the ProvEnergy merger agreement,
- the necessary third party consents to the ProvEnergy merger agreement are
obtained to the reasonable satisfaction of Southern Union, except for
those which, if not obtained, are not, individually or in the aggregate,
reasonably likely to result in a ProvEnergy material adverse effect after
the closing,
- ProvEnergy has caused the redemption of all of the outstanding shares of
Providence Gas preferred stock in accordance with the organizational
documents of Providence Gas, which redemption was completed on March 1,
2000,
- the waiting period applicable to the merger under the Hart-Scott-Rodino
Antitrust Improvement Act of 1976 terminates or expires,
- the representations and warranties of the other party in the ProvEnergy
merger agreement are accurate in all respects as of the date of the
ProvEnergy merger agreement and as of the closing date, except for such
inaccuracies, without regard to any materiality qualifications, which,
individually or in the aggregate, would not be reasonably likely to result
in a material adverse effect,
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- the other party has performed or complied with its covenants, agreements
and conditions under the ProvEnergy merger agreement in all material
respects,
- Letters of Tax Good Standing for ProvEnergy and Providence Gas are
obtained from the Rhode Island Department of Taxation,
- each party delivers an executed certificate of an authorized officer,
dated the closing date, stating that all warranties and conditions have
been satisfied,
- there are no orders which operate to restrain, enjoin or otherwise
prevent the completion of the ProvEnergy merger,
- all directors who have options outstanding under the 1989 Non-Employee
Director Stock Option Plan consent to the conversion of their options into
a right to receive a cash payment as described above in "-- Stock Options
and Performance Shares,"
- each director of ProvEnergy and its subsidiaries, whose resignation is
requested by Southern Union, will resign such directorship as of the
closing date of the merger.
When we say "material adverse effect" above, we mean a material adverse effect
- on the business, financial condition or results of operations of a party
and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole, or
- on the ability of a party and its subsidiaries to complete the ProvEnergy
merger in accordance with the ProvEnergy merger agreement.
AMENDMENT OF THE PROVENERGY MERGER AGREEMENT
ProvEnergy and Southern Union may amend in writing the terms of the ProvEnergy
merger agreement before the closing.
TERMINATION OF THE PROVENERGY MERGER AGREEMENT
The ProvEnergy merger agreement can be terminated at any time prior to the
closing of the ProvEnergy merger under the conditions specified below.
- Either party may terminate the ProvEnergy merger agreement at any time by
mutual written consent.
- Either party may also terminate the ProvEnergy merger agreement if:
- there is a non-appealable court order prohibiting the completion of
the mergers in accordance with the ProvEnergy merger agreement,
- there is a breach by the other party of any representation or
warranty, which breach cannot be cured, except for inaccuracies which
would not be reasonably likely to result in a material adverse effect,
- the approval of ProvEnergy shareholders is not obtained, or
- the closing of the ProvEnergy merger does not occur before November
15, 2000; provided, that if all conditions to closing have been
fulfilled except for approvals by any governmental body, then this
termination date will be extended until April 1, 2001.
- ProvEnergy may terminate the ProvEnergy merger agreement if, prior to the
special meeting, the board of directors has entered into a definitive
agreement with respect to a business combination proposal; provided that:
- ProvEnergy responded to an unsolicited business combination proposal,
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- the board of directors determines, in its good faith judgment, after
consultation with and the receipt of advice from its financial advisor
and outside legal counsel with customary qualifications, that the
business combination proposal is a superior proposal and that failure
to do so would create a reasonable possibility of a breach of the
board's fiduciary duties,
- before terminating the ProvEnergy merger agreement, ProvEnergy
complies with specified notice and waiting periods, which give
Southern Union an opportunity to negotiate with ProvEnergy to adjust
the terms of the ProvEnergy merger agreement, and
- ProvEnergy has paid Southern Union the $7.5 million termination fee
described below under "--Termination Fees and Expenses."
- Southern Union may terminate the ProvEnergy merger agreement if:
- the board of directors of ProvEnergy:
(i) withdraws or modifies, or proposes publicly to withdraw or
modify, in a manner adverse to Southern Union, the approval
or recommendation of the board in favor of the ProvEnergy
merger agreement,
(ii) approves or recommends, or proposes publicly to approve
or recommend, a business combination with a third party,
(iii) causes ProvEnergy to enter into a definitive agreement
related to any business combination, or
(iv) resolves to take any of the actions specified above, or
- if a third party or group acquires more than 50% of the voting power
of the outstanding voting securities of ProvEnergy, or
- if ProvEnergy had failed to cause the redemption of all of the
outstanding shares of Providence Gas preferred stock.
TERMINATION FEES AND EXPENSES
The ProvEnergy merger agreement obligates ProvEnergy to pay Southern Union a
termination fee of $7.5 million in cash if:
- ProvEnergy terminates the ProvEnergy merger agreement because it has
entered into a definitive agreement resulting from a superior proposal, as
described in the third bullet point above under "-- Termination of the
ProvEnergy Merger Agreement," or
- Southern Union terminates the ProvEnergy merger agreement for the reasons
specified in the last bullet point above under "-- Termination of the
ProvEnergy Merger Agreement."
The ProvEnergy merger agreement provides that each of the parties will pay all
costs and expenses incurred in connection with its performance of and
compliance with the merger agreement, except as expressly contemplated by the
merger agreement.
In addition, the ProvEnergy merger agreement specifies that Southern Union
will pay all real estate transfer taxes and real estate recording fees, if
any, including expenses of counsel associated with real estate title, transfer
and recording issues in connection with the ProvEnergy merger and all filing
and application fees paid to governmental bodies in connection with the
merger. ProvEnergy will pay the costs of printing and mailing its proxy
statement to ProvEnergy shareholders.
POSSIBLE EFFECTS OF THE MERGERS ON
SOUTHERN UNION STOCKHOLDER RIGHTS
Southern Union is a Delaware corporation. The rights of a holder of Southern
Union common stock are presently governed by Southern Union's restated
certificate of incorporation and bylaws and the Delaware General Corporation
Law ("DGCL").
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Fall River Gas and North Attleboro Gas, a utility subsidiary of ProvEnergy,
are Massachusetts corporations. Chapter 164 of the Massachusetts General Laws
("MGL, Chapter 164") provides that the rights of stockholders of Massachusetts
gas utility companies, which Southern Union may be deemed to be because of the
mergers, are also governed by certain provisions of MGL, Chapter 164, as well
as certain provisions of MGL, Chapter 156B (Massachusetts' general business
corporation statute).
Even though Southern Union will continue to exist as a Delaware corporation
following the mergers and Southern Union's restated certificate of
incorporation and bylaws will survive rather than those of Fall River Gas or
North Attleboro Gas, there are certain areas where the provisions of MGL,
Chapter 164, differ from those of the DGCL with respect to certain corporate
governance matters, including, more specifically, with regard to requirements
for stockholder approval in certain instances. While Southern Union believes
that following the merger, the provisions of the DGCL should take precedence
with regard to these areas where differences exist, it is uncertain whether in
any or all of these instances, the corporate affairs, including the rights of
stockholders to vote on certain matters, of the combined company may be
subject to some or all of the corporate governance provisions of MGL, Chapter
164, which are applicable to Massachusetts gas utility companies subject to
that Chapter. Neither the MDTE, which regulates Massachusetts gas distribution
companies, nor the Courts of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, have
determined whether under MGL, Chapter 164, a utility that distributes gas to
customers within Massachusetts but is not incorporated under Massachusetts law
is subject to all or any portions of MGL, Chapter 164's corporate governance
provisions that would otherwise pertain to a gas distribution company
incorporated domestically in Massachusetts. Following the mergers, Southern
Union intends to work with its legal advisors and Massachusetts regulatory
authorities to address and resolve any uncertainties if and as they arise, and
may, if necessary, work with others to obtain legislative relief or
clarification.
The provisions of the MGL, Chapter 164, that could be applicable to Southern
Union after the Fall River Gas and North Attleboro Gas mergers are in relation
to Southern Union stockholder rights as follows:
A merger of, consolidation of, or sale or purchase of all or substantially all
corporate properties involving companies, one or both of which are subject to
MGL, Chapter 164 by virtue of conducting utility operations in the State of
Massachusetts must be approved by each such company by at least two-thirds of
the shares entitled to vote thereon. Presently, under Delaware law and
Southern Union's Certificate of Incorporation such a transaction in which
Southern Union is the surviving entity would not require stockholder approval,
other than majority stockholder approval for a merger that results in the
issuance by Southern Union of shares of common stock pursuant to the plan of
merger or upon the conversion of securities of the merging entity that exceed
20% of the shares of Southern Union common stock outstanding prior to the
merger; or a sale or other disposition by Southern Union of all or
substantially all of its assets. Since these provisions would not likely
affect Southern Union's ability to make acquisitions outside Massachusetts in
which Southern Union is the surviving entity, Southern Union does not believe
this provision will adversely affect its growth strategy. To the extent that
this provision might increase the vote of Southern Union stockholders required
for another company to acquire Southern Union, this provision could deter
third parties' interest in proposing to acquire Southern Union. The proposal
to merge with Fall River Gas and ProvEnergy has been prompted by business and
financial considerations and not by the threat of any hostile takeover attempt
(nor is the Southern Union board of directors currently aware of any such
attempts directed at Southern Union), but, stockholders should be aware that
approval of the proposal could facilitate future efforts, if any, by Southern
Union to deter or prevent changes in control of the company, including
transactions in which the stockholders might otherwise receive a premium for
their shares over the then-current market prices.
A gas company or other corporation subject to the MGL, Chapter 164, may enter
into a mortgage of, or issue a bond in which a lien is placed on, all or
substantially all of the assets of the company essentially only with the
approval by a vote of a majority of its stockholders entitled to vote thereon.
Presently, Southern Union's board has the discretion to take the foregoing
actions without stockholder approval.
Directors of gas companies subject to MGL, Chapter 164, Section 4, who vote
for, and officers who knowingly participate in, any loan of any assets of a
company to any of its officers or directors are jointly and severally liable
for any portion of the loan which is not repaid. This provision does not apply
if the loan is approved or ratified as a loan which is reasonably expected to
benefit the company by either a majority of the directors who are not direct
or indirect recipients of the loan, or by stockholders who are not direct or
indirect recipients of the loan and hold a majority of the shares entitled to
vote for directors. Under Delaware law, a contract or transaction between a
corporation and an interested director or officer is not void or voidable if
(i) either the interest of the officer or the director was disclosed at the
time it was approved or the contract or transaction is fair to the
corporation, and (ii) the contract or transaction is approved by a majority of
the disinterested
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board of directors, a committee of the board comprised of disinterested
directors or a vote of the stockholders. Delaware law does not state that
directors who vote for, or officers who participate in, a loan of corporate
assets to a director or officer are personally liable for any portion of the
loan that is not repaid, although this result could occur if such director or
officer was proven to have breached his duty of loyalty through his actions in
approving such transaction.
This summary does not purport to be a complete discussion of, and is qualified
in its entirety by reference to, the DGCL and the MGL, as well as the restated
certificate of incorporation and bylaws of Southern Union.
In addition, a company operating as a utility in either Massachusetts or Rhode
Island cannot issue a stock dividend without approval from the MDTE or the
RIDPUC, whichever is applicable. Because we have a policy of declaring and
distributing an annual 5% stock dividend, we intend to seek approval for our
dividend policy from both of these agencies after the mergers are completed.
We will seek such approvals before we declare and distribute the first such
anticipated dividend after the anticipated closing of the pending mergers,
which would be the 2001 stock dividend.
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UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The following Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Financial Statements
present the combined financial data of Southern Union, PEI, Fall River Gas,
ProvEnergy and Valley Resources, including their respective subsidiaries,
after giving effect to Southern Union's merger with each of them. The PEI
merger, completed on November 4, 1999, was, and the Fall River Gas, ProvEnergy
and Valley Resources mergers will be, accounted for as a purchase. The
Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Financial Statements also give effect
to Southern Union's issuance of $300 million of senior notes that was
completed on November 3, 1999, in anticipation of the PEI merger, prospective
financing for the pending acquisitions by merger of Fall River Gas, ProvEnergy
and Valley Resources, and the assumption of certain debt of the acquired
companies.
The Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Balance Sheet as of March 31, 2000,
gives effect to the previously identified acquisitions and financing
transactions as if they had occurred on that date. The Unaudited Pro Forma
Combined Condensed Statements of Operations for the year ended June 30, 1999,
and the nine months ended March 31, 2000, give effect to the previously
identified acquisitions and financing transactions as if they had occurred on
July 1, 1998, and July 1, 1999, respectively, which are the beginning dates
for such periods.
The fiscal year of Southern Union ends on June 30. The fiscal year of PEI
ended on December 31. The fiscal years of Fall River Gas and ProvEnergy end on
September 30. The fiscal year of Valley Resources ends on August 31.
Accordingly, the Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Balance Sheet as of
March 31, 2000, is derived from the March 31, 2000, balance sheets for each of
Southern Union, Fall River Gas and ProvEnergy, and the February 29, 2000,
balance sheet of Valley Resources. Also, the Unaudited Pro Forma Combined
Condensed Statements of Operations for the year ended June 30, 1999, and the
nine months ended March 31, 2000, have been prepared using comparable
financial statement periods of PEI, Fall River Gas and ProvEnergy, and the
results of operations for the twelve-month period ended May 31, 1999 and the
nine-month period ended February 29, 2000 of Valley Resources. The foregoing
financial statements have all been incorporated by reference to previous
filings with the SEC made by Southern Union or such other company. The
following Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Financial Statements have
been prepared from, and should be read in conjunction with, those historical
financial statements and related notes thereto of Southern Union, PEI, Fall
River Gas, ProvEnergy and Valley Resources. See "Where You Can Find More
Information."
The historical financial statements of the acquired companies that appear in
or were used for the Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Financial
Statements include or required certain reclassifications to conform to
Southern Union's presentation. These reclassifications have no impact on net
income or total stockholders' equity.
The pro forma adjustments reflect an estimated additional purchase cost
assigned to utility plant based on the historical cost of the regulated assets
and liabilities of the acquired companies and an estimate of the fair value of
the non-regulated assets and liabilities of the acquired companies, plus
estimated acquisition costs for the pending transactions. The estimate of the
fair value of the non-regulated assets are preliminary and may be revised to
reflect independent appraisals, which have not been completed.
The Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Financial Statements are based on
the assumption that upon completion of the Fall River Gas merger each Fall
River Gas stockholder will receive, in exchange for each share of Fall River
Gas common stock he or she owns, a combination of Southern Union common stock
and/or cash worth in the aggregate $23.50; the cash consideration is limited
to 50% of the aggregate consideration paid to all Fall River Gas stockholders.
The following pro forma adjustments reflect a payment of 50% cash and 50%
Southern Union common stock for each share of Fall River Gas common stock.
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The following Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed Financial Statements are
presented in accordance with the assumptions set forth below for purposes of
illustration only and are not necessarily indicative of the financial position
or operating results that would have occurred if the previously identified
acquisitions and financing transactions had been consummated on the date as of
which, or at the beginning of the periods for which, they are being given
effect nor are they necessarily indicative of the future operating results or
financial position of the combined enterprise. The Unaudited Pro Forma
Combined Condensed Financial Statements do not contain any adjustments to
reflect cost savings or other synergies anticipated as a result of the
mergers. The weighted average shares of common stock and common stock
equivalents outstanding have been adjusted for the 5% stock dividend
distributed on June 30, 2000. Operating results for the nine months ended
March 31, 2000 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be
expected for the entire fiscal year ending June 30, 2000.
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UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEET
MARCH 31, 2000
ASSETS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
HISTORICAL
--------------------------------------------------
SOUTHERN FALL RIVER PROVIDENCE VALLEY
UNION GAS ENERGY RESOURCES
COMPANY (1) COMPANY CORPORATION INC. (2)
------------ ----------- ------------ -----------
(THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Property, plant and equipment ............................ $ 1,582,405 $ 63,101 $ 347,969 $ 88,317
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization ........... (497,227) (23,934) (128,546) (35,543)
----------- --------- ---------- ---------
1,085,178 39,167 219,423 52,774
Additional purchase cost assigned to utility plant, net .. 378,085 -- -- --
----------- --------- ---------- ---------
Net property, plant and equipment ..................... 1,463,263 39,167 219,423 52,774
Current assets ........................................... 216,529 13,395 75,911 25,305
Deferred charges ......................................... 160,154 370 42,140 23,674
Investment securities .................................... 15,587 -- 13,568 1,701
Real estate and other .................................... 9,438 4,240 3,669 5,425
----------- --------- ---------- ---------
Total ................................................. $ 1,864,971 $ 57,172 $ 354,711 $ 108,879
=========== ========= ========== =========
<CAPTION>
PRO FORMA
-----------------------------
ADJUSTMENTS COMBINED
----------- ------------
<S> <C> <C>
Property, plant and equipment ............................ $ -- $ 2,081,792
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization ........... -- (685,250)
----------- -----------
-- 1,396,542
Additional purchase cost assigned to utility plant, net .. 293,040 (A) 671,125
----------- -----------
Net property, plant and equipment ..................... 293,040 2,067,667
Current assets ........................................... 2,503 (B) 333,643
Deferred charges ......................................... 1,279 (C) 222,617
Investment securities .................................... -- 30,856
Real estate and other .................................... -- 22,772
----------- -----------
Total ................................................. $ 296,822 $ 2,682,555
=========== ===========
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
Common stockholders' equity .............................. $ 630,953 $ 19,369 $ 103,238 $ 36,590
Company-obligated mandatorily redeemable preferred
securities of subsidiary trust ........................ 100,000 -- -- --
Long-term debt and capital lease obligation .............. 734,320 19,500 88,452 32,251
----------- --------- ---------- ---------
Total capitalization .................................. 1,465,273 38,869 191,690 68,841
Current liabilities ...................................... 160,956 10,200 127,955 21,935
Deferred credits and other ............................... 112,581 3,570 10,626 4,494
Accumulated deferred income taxes ........................ 126,161 4,533 24,440 13,609
Commitments and contingencies ............................
----------- --------- ---------- ---------
Total ................................................. $ 1,864,971 $ 57,172 $ 354,711 $ 108,879
=========== ========= ========== =========
Common stockholders' equity .............................. $ (159,197)(D) $ 656,972
26,019 (E)
Company-obligated mandatorily redeemable preferred
securities of subsidiary trust ........................ -- 100,000
Long-term debt and capital lease obligation .............. 430,000 (F) 1,304,523
----------- -----------
Total capitalization .................................. 296,822 2,061,495
Current liabilities ...................................... -- 321,046
Deferred credits and other ............................... -- 131,271
Accumulated deferred income taxes ........................ -- 168,743
Commitments and contingencies ............................
----------- -----------
Total ................................................. $ 296,822 $ 2,682.555
=========== ===========
</TABLE>
-------------------
(1) Amounts include Pennsylvania Enterprises, Inc.
(2) Amounts presented are as of February 29, 2000.
66
<PAGE>
See accompanying notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed
Financial Statements.
67
<PAGE>
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED CONDENSED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1999
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
HISTORICAL
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SOUTHERN PENNSYLVANIA FALL RIVER PROVIDENCE VALLEY
UNION ENTERPRISES GAS ENERGY RESOURCES
COMPANY INC. COMPANY CORPORATION INC. (1)
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
(THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS, EXCEPT SHARES AND PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Operating revenues ........................... $ 605,231 $ 233,605 $ 42,967 $ 223,095 $ 80,802
Cost of gas and other energy ................. 342,301 145,319 23,291 118,746 45,528
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Operating margin .......................... 262,930 88,286 19,676 104,349 35,274
Operating expenses:
Operating, maintenance and general ........ 109,693 36,696 12,659 53,233 19,168
Depreciation and amortization ............. 41,855 10,291 2,118 16,451 3,361
Taxes, other than on income ............... 46,535 12,415 1,528 14,210 4,124
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total operating expenses ................ 198,083 59,402 16,305 83,894 26,653
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Net operating revenues .................. 64,847 28,884 3,371 20,455 8,621
Other income (expenses):
Interest .................................. (35,999) (11,395) (1,647) (8,350) (3,027)
Dividends on preferred securities ......... (9,480) -- -- -- --
Other, net ................................ (1,814) 1,173 1,561 1,036 324
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total other expenses, net ............... (47,293) (10,222) (86) (7,314) (2,703)
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Earnings (loss) before income taxes
(benefit) ................................. 17,554 18,662 3,285 13,141 5,918
Federal and state income taxes (benefit) ..... 7,109 7,090 1,247 4,448 1,635
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Net earnings (loss) before preferred stock
dividend requirements ..................... 10,445 11,572 2,038 8,693 4,283
Preferred stock dividend requirements ........ -- (653) -- (382) --
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Net earnings (loss) available for common
stock .................................... $ 10,445 $ 10,919 $ 2,038 $ 8,311 $ 4,283
=========== =========== =========== =========== ===========
Net earnings (loss) per share:
Basic ..................................... $ 0.32
===========
Diluted ................................... $ 0.31
===========
Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic ..................................... 32,437,516
===========
Diluted ................................... 34,217,262
===========
<CAPTION>
PRO FORMA
-----------------------------
ADJUSTMENTS COMBINED
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Operating revenues ........................... $ -- $ 1,185,700
Cost of gas and other energy ................. -- 675,185
----------- -----------
Operating margin .......................... -- 510,515
Operating expenses:
Operating, maintenance and general ........ -- 231,449
Depreciation and amortization ............. 13,628 (G) 87,704
Taxes, other than on income ............... -- 78,812
----------- -----------
Total operating expenses ................ 13,628 397,965
----------- -----------
Net operating revenues .................. (13,628) 112,550
Other income (expenses):
Interest .................................. (58,939)(H) (111,451)
7,906 (I)
Dividends on preferred securities ......... -- (9,480)
Other, net ................................ -- 2,280
----------- -----------
Total other expenses, net ............... (51,033) (118,651)
----------- -----------
Earnings (loss) before income taxes
(benefit) ................................. (64,661) (6,101)
Federal and state income taxes (benefit) ..... (17,862)(J) 3,667
----------- -----------
Net earnings (loss) before preferred stock
dividend requirements ..................... (46,799) (9,768)
Preferred stock dividend requirements ........ 1,035 (K) --
----------- -----------
Net earnings (loss) available for common
stock .................................... $ (45,764) $ (9,768)
=========== ===========
Net earnings (loss) per share:
Basic ..................................... $ (0.19)
===========
Diluted ................................... $ (0.19)
===========
Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic ..................................... 18,095,204 (L) 50,532,720
=========== ===========
Diluted .............................. 16,315,458 (L) 50,532,720
=========== ===========
</TABLE>
------------------
(1) Amounts presented are for twelve months ended May 31, 1999.
68
<PAGE>
See accompanying notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed
Financial Statements.
69
<PAGE>
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED CONDENSED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2000
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
HISTORICAL
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SOUTHERN PENNSYLVANIA FALL RIVER PROVIDENCE VALLEY
UNION ENTERPRISES GAS ENERGY RESOURCES
COMPANY INC. COMPANY CORPORATION INC. (2)
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
(THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS, EXCEPT SHARES AND PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Operating revenues ............................... $ 669,170 $ 48,486 $ 34,422 $ 209,407 $ 62,901
Cost of gas and other energy ..................... 402,182 30,342 18,998 121,734 37,384
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Operating margin .............................. 266,988 18,144 15,424 87,673 25,517
Operating expenses:
Operating, maintenance and general ............ 98,647 14,116 9,750 41,753 14,595
Depreciation and amortization ................. 39,539 3,549 1,719 14,134 2,661
Taxes, other than on income ................... 43,195 2,629 1,196 11,796 3,098
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total operating expenses .................... 181,381 20,294 12,665 67,683 20,354
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Net operating revenues ...................... 85,607 (2,150) 2,759 19,990 5,163
Other income (expenses):
Interest ...................................... (36,603) (3,935) (1,240) (7,708) (2,339)
Dividends on preferred securities ............. (7,110) -- -- -- --
Other, net .................................... (5,527) (2,351) 1,104 (1,270) (171)
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total other expenses, net ................... (49,240) (6,286) (136) (8,978) (2,510)
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Earnings (loss) before income taxes
(benefit) ..................................... 36,367 (8,436) 2,623 11,012 2,653
Federal and state income taxes (benefit) ........ 15,820 (3,206) 1,058 4,214 901
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Net earnings (loss) before preferred stock
dividend requirements ......................... 20,547 (5,230) 1,565 6,798 1,752
Preferred stock dividend requirements ............ -- (68) -- (215) --
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Net earnings (loss) available for common stock ... $ 20,547 $ (5,298) $ 1,565 $ 6,583 $ 1,752
=========== =========== =========== =========== ===========
Net earnings (loss) per share:
Basic ......................................... $ 0.49
===========
Diluted ....................................... $ 0.47
===========
Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic ......................................... 41,688,408
===========
Diluted ....................................... 43,733,332
===========
<CAPTION>
PRO FORMA
---------------------------
ADJUSTMENTS COMBINED
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Operating revenues ............................... $ -- $ 1,024,386
Cost of gas and other energy ..................... -- 610,640
----------- -----------
Operating margin .............................. -- 413,746
Operating expenses:
Operating, maintenance and general ............ -- 178,861
Depreciation and amortization ................. 7,595 (G) 69,197
Taxes, other than on income ................... -- 61,914
----------- -----------
Total operating expenses .................... 7,595 309,972
----------- -----------
Net operating revenues ...................... (7,595) 103,774
Other income (expenses):
Interest ...................................... (33,796)(M) (82,985)
2,636 (I)
Dividends on preferred securities ............. -- (7,110)
Other, net .................................... -- (8,215)
----------- -----------
Total other expenses, net ................... (31,160) (98,310)
----------- -----------
Earnings (loss) before income taxes
(benefit) ..................................... (38,755) 5,464
Federal and state income taxes (benefit) ........ (10,906)(J) 7,881
----------- -----------
Net earnings (loss) before preferred stock
dividend requirements ......................... (27,849) (2,417)
Preferred stock dividend requirements ............ 283 (K) --
----------- -----------
Net earnings (loss) available for common stock ... $ (27,566) $ (2,417)
=========== ===========
Net earnings (loss) per share:
Basic ......................................... $ (0.05)
===========
Diluted ....................................... $ (0.05)
===========
Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic ......................................... 8,714,151 (N) 50,402,559
=========== ===========
Diluted ....................................... 6,669,227 (N) 50,402,559
=========== ===========
</TABLE>
-----------------
(1) Amounts presented are for four months ended October 31, 1999 (five months
ended March 31, 2000 are included in Southern Union's amounts).
(2) Amounts presented are for nine months ended February 29, 2000.
70
<PAGE>
See accompanying notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Condensed
Financial Statements.
71
<PAGE>
NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
ADJUSTMENTS TO THE UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED CONDENSED BALANCE
SHEET
(A) Reflects the estimated excess of the purchase price and other transaction
costs over the historical cost of the regulated net assets and the
estimated fair value of the non-regulated net assets of Fall River Gas,
ProvEnergy, and Valley Resources, collectively "the pending
acquisitions."
(B) Reflects excess cash after application of the net proceeds from the
merger financing of the pending acquisitions. See Note (F).
(C) Reflects the capitalization of estimated costs associated with the bank
borrowings as more specifically described in Note (F) to be incurred in
connection with the pending acquisitions. These financing costs are
amortized on a straight-line basis over the life of the bank borrowings.
(D) Reflects the elimination of common stockholders' equity of Fall River
Gas, ProvEnergy, and Valley Resources.
(E) Reflects the issuance of Southern Union common stock to Fall River Gas
stockholders. See Notes (L) and (N).
(F) Reflects bank borrowings at an estimated annual interest rate of 7.60%,
which Southern Union believes would be obtained based on current market
rates. The bank borrowings are assumed to be utilized: to finance the
cash portion of the purchase of Fall River Gas, ProvEnergy, and Valley
Resources and the settlement of any respective stock options; and to pay
various professional fees and change of control agreements expected to be
incurred in connection with the pending acquisitions estimated to total
$9 million. See Notes (H) and (M).
ADJUSTMENTS TO THE UNAUDITED PRO FORMA COMBINED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF
OPERATIONS
(G) Reflects amortization of the estimated excess purchase price over the
historical cost of the regulated net assets and the estimated fair value
of the non-regulated net assets of PEI, Fall River Gas, ProvEnergy, and
Valley Resources on a straight-line basis over a 40-year period based on
the estimated useful lives of these assets. The pro forma adjustment
for the nine-month period ended March 31, 2000 reflects only four months
of amortization of additional purchase cost related to the acquisition
of PEI, as five months of actual are included in Southern Union's
historical balances due to the closing of this merger on November 4,
1999.
(H) Reflects interest expense on bank borrowings for the pending acquisitions
at an estimated annual interest rate of 7.60%, which Southern Union
believes would be obtained based on current market rates, and interest
expense on the $300 million of long-term debt at 8.25% issued on November
3, 1999 in connection with the PEI merger. The bank borrowings and long-
term debt are assumed to be utilized: to finance the cash portion of the
purchase of PEI, Fall River Gas, ProvEnergy and Valley Resources and the
settlement of any respective stock options; to refinance certain debt of
PEI and Southern Union; to fund PEI's Director Retirement Plan, Director
Deferred Compensation Plan and supplemental retirement benefits and the
payments for severance benefits for certain PEI executives; and to pay
various professional fees and change of control agreements expected to
be incurred in connection with all mergers estimated to total $12
million. For every 1/8 percent change in the interest rate assumed for
the bank borrowings, expense for the 12-month period would change by
approximately $550,000. The rate on the $300 million issued for PEI is
fixed at 8.25%, so no variation in the rate for this long-term debt was
calculated.
(I) Reflects the elimination of historical interest expense of PEI as a
result of refinancing certain debt in connection with the PEI merger. See
Notes (H) and (M).
(J) Reflects the income tax consequences at the federal statutory rate of the
pro forma adjustments after excluding nondeductible goodwill
amortization.
(K) Reflects the elimination of preferred stock dividend requirement due to
the repurchase of all outstanding PEI and ProvEnergy preferred stock
prior to the closing of the mergers for PEI and ProvEnergy.
72
<PAGE>
(L) Reflects the issuance of 16,713,735 pre-stock dividend shares of Southern
Union stock for the purchase of PEI. Also reflects the estimated issuance
of 1,541,867 shares of Southern Union stock for the purchase of Fall
River Gas, based on an average trading price of $15.7954 for the ten
trading-day period ending on the third trading day before June 30, 2000
and an exchange ratio of 1.39259. The actual exchange ratio for the Fall
River Gas merger will be based upon the average closing price per share
for Southern Union common stock for the ten trading day period ending on
the third full trading day the day the merger is completed. The exchange
ratio will not be lower than 1.19365 nor greater than 1.39259. Due to
the loss position resulting from the pro forma adjustments, the diluted
shares outstanding were adjusted for 1,779,747 shares of common stock
equivalents that had been included in Southern Union's historical
amounts.
(M) Reflects interest expense on bank borrowings for the pending acquisitions
at an estimated annual interest rate of 7.60%, which Southern Union
believes would be obtained based on current market rates, and interest
expense on the $300 million of long-term debt at 8.25% issued on November
3, 1999 in connection with the PEI merger. The non-PEI merger-related
long-term debt is assumed to be utilized: to finance the cash portion of
the purchase of Fall River Gas, ProvEnergy, and Valley Resources; and the
settlement of any respective stock options; and to pay various
professional fees and change of control agreements incurred in connection
with the three pending mergers estimated to total $9 million. The pro
forma adjustment for the nine-month period ended March 31, 2000 reflects
only four months of interest expense related to the $300 million of
long-term debt issued for the acquisition of PEI, as five months of
actual are included in Southern Union's historical balances due to the
closing of this merger on November 4, 1999. For every 1/8 percent change
in the interest rate assumed for the bank borrowings, expense for the
nine-month period would change by approximately $400,000. The rate on
the $300 million issued for PEI is fixed at 8.25%, so no variation in
the rate for this long-term debt was calculated.
(N) Reflects the issuance of 16,713,735 pre-stock dividend shares of Southern
Union stock for the purchase of PEI. Also reflects the estimated issuance
of 1,541,867 shares of Southern Union stock for the purchase of Fall
River Gas, based on an average trading price of $15.7954 for the ten
trading-day period ending on the third trading day before June 30, 2000
and an exchange ratio of 1.39259. The actual exchange ratio for the Fall
River Gas merger will be based upon the average closing price per share
for Southern Union common stock for the ten trading day period ending on
the third full trading day prior to the day the merger is completed. The
exchange ratio will not be lower than 1.19365 nor greater than 1.39259.
Due to the loss position resulting from the pro forma adjustments, the
diluted shares outstanding were adjusted for 2,044,899 shares of common
stock equivalents that had been included in Southern Union's historical
amounts.
73
<PAGE>
THE COMPANIES
SOUTHERN UNION COMPANY
The following briefly describes the business of Southern Union. Additional
information regarding Southern Union is contained in its filings with the SEC
pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. See "Where You Can Find More
Information" on page 4.
GENERAL
Southern Union was incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware in
1932 and is one of the fifteen largest gas utilities in the United States, as
measured by number of customers. Southern Union's principal line of business
is the distribution of natural gas as a public utility through Southern Union
Gas, Missouri Gas Energy ("MGE"), PG Energy and Atlantic Utilities, doing
business as South Florida Natural Gas ("SFNG"), each of which is a division of
Southern Union.
Southern Union Gas, headquartered in Austin, Texas, serves approximately
523,000 customers in Texas (including the cities of Austin, El Paso,
Brownsville, Galveston, Harlingen, McAllen and Port Arthur). MGE,
headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, serves approximately 491,000 customers
in central and western Missouri (including the cities of Kansas City, St.
Joseph, Joplin and Monett). PG Energy, headquartered in Wilkes-Barre,
Pennsylvania, serves approximately 154,000 customers in northeastern and
central Pennsylvania (including the cities of Wilkes-Barre, Scranton and
Williamsport). SFNG, headquartered in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, serves
approximately 5,000 customers in central Florida (including the cities of New
Smyrna Beach and Edgewater and areas of Volusia County, Florida). The diverse
geographic area of Southern Union's natural gas distribution systems reduces
the sensitivity of Southern Union's operations to weather risk and local
economic conditions.
Subsidiaries of Southern Union have been established to support and expand
natural gas and other energy sales and to capitalize on Southern Union's
energy expertise. These subsidiaries market natural gas and electricity to end
users, operate natural gas pipeline systems, generate electricity, distribute
propane, and sell commercial gas air conditioning and other gas-fired
engine-driven applications. By providing "one-stop shopping," Southern Union
can serve its various customers' specific energy needs, which encompass
substantially all of the natural gas distribution and sales businesses from
natural gas sales to specialized energy consulting services. Southern Union
distributes propane to 11,000, 1,800 and 1,100 customers in Texas,
Pennsylvania and Florida, respectively. Through PG Energy Services, Inc.,
Southern Union markets electricity and other products and services under the
name PG Energy Power Plus, principally in northeastern and central
Pennsylvania. Through PEI Power Corporation, an exempt wholesale generator
(within the meaning of the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935),
Southern Union generates and sells electricity in northeastern and central
Pennsylvania. Through Keystone Pipeline Services, Inc. (a wholly owned
subsidiary of PG Energy Services, Inc.), Southern Union is engaged primarily
in the construction, maintenance and rehabilitation of natural gas
distribution pipelines. Additionally, certain subsidiaries own or hold
interests in real estate and other assets.
Southern Union is a sales and market-driven energy company, whose management
is committed to achieving profitable growth of its utility businesses in an
increasingly competitive business environment. Southern Union's strategies for
achieving these objectives reflect Southern Union's commitment to its core gas
utility business.
ACQUISITIONS
Southern Union has a goal of selected growth and expansion, primarily in the
utilities industry. To that extent, Southern Union intends to consider, when
appropriate, and if financially practicable to pursue, the acquisition of
other utility distribution or transmission businesses. The nature and location
of any such properties, the structure of any such acquisitions and the method
of financing any such expansion or growth will be determined by Southern
Union's management and the Southern Union board of directors. These
acquisitions, including the proposed mergers with Fall River Gas and
ProvEnergy, require substantial additional financing through future debt, and
possibly future equity offerings. The availability and terms of any such
financing sources will depend upon various factors and conditions, such as
Southern Union's cash flow and earnings, its resulting capital structure,
credit ratings and conditions in financial capital markets at the time of any
such offering. In addition to the Fall River Gas and ProvEnergy mergers that
are the subject of the Southern Union Special Meeting and this proxy
statement, Southern Union has recently completed or agreed to two other
significant mergers that are summarized below.
74
<PAGE>
MERGER WITH PEI
Effective November 4, 1999, Southern Union acquired PEI and its subsidiaries
for approximately 17 million shares of Southern Union common stock and
approximately $36 million in cash plus the assumption of approximately $150
million in debt. PEI's natural gas utility businesses are being operated as PG
Energy, a division of Southern Union, which provides service to approximately
154,000 natural gas customers in northeastern and central Pennsylvania
(including the cities of Wilkes-Barre, Scranton and Williamsport). Through the
acquisition of PEI, Southern Union acquired and now operates a subsidiary that
markets electricity and other products and services under the name PG Energy
Power Plus, principally in northeastern and central Pennsylvania. Other
subsidiaries that Southern Union acquired in the PEI merger engage in various
non-regulated activities, including the construction, maintenance and
rehabilitation of natural gas distribution pipelines.
PENDING MERGER WITH VALLEY RESOURCES
On November 30, 1999, Southern Union, SUG Acquisition Corporation, a Rhode
Island corporation and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Southern Union, and Valley
Resources (AMEX: VR) entered into a definitive merger agreement. The agreement
calls for Valley Resources to merge into Southern Union in a transaction
valued at approximately $160 million, including the assumption of debt. Valley
Resources shareholders will receive $25.00 in cash for each of the
approximately 4.98 million shares of Valley Resources common stock
outstanding. Valley Resources principally provides natural gas utility service
to more than 64,000 customers through its subsidiaries, Valley Gas Company and
Bristol & Warren Gas Company, in the Blackstone Valley Region located in
northeastern and eastern Rhode Island. Southern Union anticipates completing
the Valley Resources merger in September 2000 after all remaining conditions
are satisfied, including receipt of all regulatory approvals for the Valley
Resources merger. Valley Resources stockholders approved the Valley Resources
merger at their special meeting on June 13, 2000.
FALL RIVER GAS
The following briefly describes the business of Fall River Gas. Additional
information regarding Fall River Gas is contained in its filing with the SEC.
See "Where You Can Find More Information" on page 4.
GENERAL
Fall River Gas was organized as a Massachusetts corporation on September 25,
1880 and is an investor-owned public utility company that sells, distributes
and transports natural gas (mixed with propane and liquefied natural gas
during winter months) at retail through a pipeline distribution system
throughout its 50 square mile service territory in the City of Fall River and
the towns of Somerset, Swansea and Westport, all located within the
southeastern portion of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. This area has a
population of approximately 140,000. The principal markets served by Fall
River Gas are (1) residential customers using gas for heating, cooking and
water heating, (2) industrial customers using gas for processing items such as
textile and metal goods, (3) commercial customers using gas for cooking and
heating, and (4) federal and state housing projects using gas for heating,
cooking and water heating.
Fall River Gas is engaged in only one line of business as described above, and
in activities incidental to this business. Fall River Gas has one wholly-owned
subsidiary, Fall River Gas Appliance Company, Inc. (the "Appliance Company"),
a Massachusetts corporation, which rents water heaters and conversion burners
(primarily for residential use) in Fall River Gas' gas service area. Earnings
from the Appliance Company are primarily the result of revenues from the
rental of water heaters and conversion burners. The Appliance Company also
derives revenues from the sale of central heating and air-conditioning systems
and water heaters.
Fall River Gas' distribution system consist of approximately 635 miles of gas
mains ranging in size from 2 to 36 inches in diameter, approximately 29,000
services and approximately 50,000 active gas meters, together with related
facilities and equipment. In the preceding sentence, a "service" means a pipe
connecting a gas main with piping to a customer's premises. The gas utility
subsidiaries have regulating and metering facilities at 3 points of delivery
from Algonquin Gas Transmission Company. Fall River Gas presently believes
that these regulating and metering facilities are adequate for receiving gas
into their distribution systems from the interstate gas pipeline.
75
<PAGE>
As of May 1, 2000, Fall River Gas provided service to approximately 48,000
natural gas customers.
Fall River Gas and its subsidiary employed approximately 175 persons as of May
1, 2000.
PROVENERGY
The following briefly describes the business of ProvEnergy. Additional
information regarding ProvEnergy is contained in its filings with the SEC. See
"Where You Can Find More Information" on page 4.
REGULATED BUSINESSES
ProvEnergy is the parent of two wholly owned natural gas distribution
utilities, Providence Gas and North Attleboro Gas, which we refer to
collectively as the gas utility subsidiaries. Providence Gas, founded in 1847,
is Rhode Island's largest natural gas distributor and serves approximately
168,000 customers in Providence, Newport and 23 other cities and towns in
Rhode Island. North Attleboro Gas serves approximately 6,000 customers in
North Attleboro and Plainville, Massachusetts, towns adjacent to the
northeastern Rhode Island border. The total natural gas service territory of
the gas companies encompasses 760 square miles and has a population of
approximately 850,000.
NON-REGULATED BUSINESSES
ProvEnergy is also the parent of ProvEnergy Oil Enterprises, Inc., which
operates an oil distribution business through its subsidiary, ProvEnergy
Fuels, Inc. ("ProvEnergy Fuels"). ProvEnergy Fuels operates this business
under several trade names, which were among the assets of oil distribution
businesses acquired by ProvEnergy Fuels during the past three years, namely,
Super Service Oil (acquired in 1997), Keenan Oil (acquired in 1999) and
Consumers Oil (acquired in January, 2000). These acquisitions, as well as five
smaller acquisitions completed between 1997 and 1999, are part of ProvEnergy's
strategic plan to strengthen its position in the energy industry. Currently,
the oil business serves over 14,000 residential and commercial customers in
Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
ProvEnergy uses its wholly owned subsidiary, Providence Energy Services, Inc.,
to market natural gas and energy services to and as the vehicle to grow its
natural gas, oil, and electricity businesses with retail accounts in New
England.
Also, in July 1998, ProvEnergy and ERI Services, Inc. formed a joint venture,
Capital Center Energy Company, LLC., which is owned 50 percent by ProvEnergy's
subsidiary, ProvEnergy Power Company, LLC, and 50 percent by ERI Services'
subsidiary, ERI Providence, LLC. A wholly owned subsidiary of Capital Center
Energy Company, LLC, DownCity Energy Company, LLC, was selected as the
exclusive electric, heat and air conditioning and related service provider for
most of the Providence Place Mall for the next thirty years.
OPERATIONS OF PROVENERGY'S GAS UTILITY SUBSIDIARIES
CUSTOMERS
The gas utility subsidiaries have approximately 174,000 customers, of which
approximately 90% are residential and 10% are commercial and industrial.
GAS SERVICE
The gas services provided by the gas utility subsidiaries can be grouped into
four categories: firm sales, firm transportation, non-firm sales and non-firm
transportation. Firm service is provided to those residential, commercial and
industrial customers that use natural gas throughout the year. Non-firm
service is provided to those commercial and industrial customers that do not
require assured gas service because they can utilize an alternative fuel or
otherwise operate without gas service. The transportation service of the gas
utility subsidiaries transports to some customers gas owned by those customers
or by third parties selling gas to those customers.
Firm Sales. In the recent year, the gas utility subsidiaries distributed
approximately 57% of firm sales to residential customers and 43% of firm sales
to commercial and industrial customers. Firm sales represent the highest
percentage of operating margin and represent the core of the gas utility
subsidiaries' business.
76
<PAGE>
Non-Firm. Non-firm customers consist of two types: seasonal customers that
typically use gas only during the non-winter months and dual-fuel customers
that contract for gas service on a year round basis, but agree to service
interruption during certain peak periods. By retaining the right to interrupt
service to non-firm customers, the gas utility subsidiaries can balance daily
demand from firm customers with available gas supply and pipeline capacity.
Non-firm customers may interrupt their gas service, as well, when it is more
economical to utilize an alternative fuel. Accordingly, the amount of the gas
utility subsidiaries' non-firm sales fluctuates depending upon the relative
price of natural gas to alternative fuels.
Non-firm sales produce substantially less margin to the gas utility
subsidiaries than firm sales as a result of the more competitive nature of
non-firm sales. Service rates charged to dual-fuel customers are based on the
price that the customer would otherwise pay for its alternative fuel.
Transportation Service. ProvEnergy provides both firm and non-firm
transportation of gas. Margin from the firm transportation of gas by certain
large customers is likely to represent an increasing percentage of the gas
utility subsidiaries' future total margin as a result of the continuing
developments affecting the natural gas industry. In general, these
developments now allow customers to buy gas directly from the
producer-supplier rather than solely from the local gas distribution company.
Customer-owned gas is transported to the customer's premises through a
combination of interstate pipelines and the gas utility subsidiaries'
distribution systems.
For a given quantity of gas, the gas utility subsidiaries' margin from firm
transportation service is comparable to the margin from firm sales. Margin
from non-firm transportation service is less than the margin from firm sales,
but is generally comparable to the margin from interruptible sales, depending
on the price of alternative fuels. To the extent that the gas utility
subsidiaries' existing customers buy gas directly from producer-suppliers, the
gas utility subsidiaries' revenue will decrease, although firm margin will not
be materially impacted.
GAS DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS
ProvEnergy's gas utility subsidiaries' distribution systems consist of
approximately 2,400 miles of gas mains ranging in size from 2 to 36 inches in
diameter, approximately 146,000 services and approximately 173,000 active gas
meters, together with related facilities and equipment. In the preceding
sentence, a "service" means a pipe connecting a gas main with piping to a
customer's premises. The gas utility subsidiaries have regulating and metering
facilities at nine points of delivery from Algonquin Gas Transmission Company
and one point of delivery from Tennessee Gas Pipeline Company. The gas utility
subsidiaries presently believe that these regulating and metering facilities
are adequate for receiving gas into their distribution systems from these
interstate gas pipelines.
EMPLOYEES
ProvEnergy has approximately 643 full-time employees. Approximately 271 of
distribution and customer service employees of Providence Gas are covered by a
collective bargaining agreement with Local 12431-01 of the United Steelworkers
of America, which became effective on January 21, 1999. Approximately 83
employees of Providence Gas are covered by a collective bargaining agreement
with Local 12431-02 of the United Steelworkers of America, which became
effective on June 1, 1999.
77
<PAGE>
PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS
BENEFICIAL OWNERS OF MORE THAN 5% OF SOUTHERN UNION'S OUTSTANDING COMMON STOCK
The following table shows, as of June 30, 2000, any person who is known by
Southern Union to be the beneficial owner individually or collectively of more
than five percent of the outstanding Southern Union common stock.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AMOUNT AND NATURE OF
BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP PERCENT
NUMBER OF SHARES OF
NAME AND ADDRESS OF BENEFICIAL OWNER BENEFICIALLY OWNED (1) CLASS
------------------------------------ ---------------------- -------
<S> <C> <C>
George L. and Frayada B. Lindemann 5,320,998 (2)(3) 10.63%
767 Fifth Avenue, 50th Floor
New York, New York 10153
Adam M. Lindemann 2,893,420 (3)(4) 5.84%
767 Fifth Avenue, 50th Floor
New York, New York 10153
George Lindemann, Jr. 2,897,599 (3)(5) 5.85%
11950 Maidstone Drive
Wellington, Florida 33414
Sloan N. Lindemann 2,896,544 (3) 5.85%
767 Fifth Avenue, 50th Floor
New York, New York 10153
Bass Reporting Persons 3,145,661 (6) 6.35%
201 Main Street
Fort Worth, Texas 76102
Baron Capital Group, 5,773,537 (7) 11.66%
767 Fifth Avenue, 49th Floor
New York, New York 10153
</TABLE>
(1) Includes options to acquire shares of Southern Union common stock that are
exercisable within 60 days of June 30, 2000.
(2) Includes: 2,180,560 shares owned by SUG 1 L.P. in which Mr. Lindemann is
the sole general partner; 2,578,242 shares owned by SUG 2 L.P. in which
Mr. Lindemann's wife, Dr. F.B. Lindemann, is the sole general partner;
14,441 vested shares held through the Southern Union Supplemental
Deferred Compensation Plan (the "Supplemental Plan") for Mr. Lindemann;
9,653 vested shares held by the 401(k) Southern Union Savings Plan (the
"401(k) Plan") for Mr. Lindemann; and 538,102 shares of Southern Union
common stock Mr. Lindemann is entitled to purchase upon the exercise of
stock options exerciseable presently or within 60 days of June 30, 2000
pursuant to the Southern Union 1992 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the "1992
Plan"). Substantially all shares beneficially held by Mr. and Dr.
Lindemann and their three children (Adam M., George, Jr., and Sloan N.)
(together, the "Lindemann Family") have been pledged to Activated
Communications Limited Partnership ("Activated"). Activated, which is
owned and managed by or for the benefit of the Lindemann Family, provided
the funds used to purchase certain of such shares. Mr. Lindemann is the
Chairman of the Board and President, and, Dr. Lindemann and Adam
Lindemann are each a director of the sole general partner of Activated.
(3) This information regarding direct share ownership by members of the
Lindemann Family generally was obtained from and is reported herein in
reliance upon a Schedule 13D (as amended through April 19, 2000) as
adjusted for any stock dividends and splits since the date of such report
filed by George L. Lindemann, Adam M. Lindemann, Sloan N. Lindemann, SUG 1
L.P., SUG 2 L.P., and SUG 3 L.P. In addition, information regarding share
ownership by George L. Lindemann (including shares beneficially owned by
his wife, Dr. F.B. Lindemann) and Adam M. Lindemann reflects information
derived from their respective reports on Form 4 and Form 5 under the
Exchange Act filed to date. Each member of the Lindemann Family disclaims
beneficial ownership of any shares owned by any other member of the
Lindemann Family. Accordingly, with respect to each member of the
Lindemann Family, the above table reflects only individual share ownership
except that the shares beneficially held by Dr. F. B. Lindemann are
reflected as owned by George L. Lindemann, as explained in Note (2).
(4) Includes 4,431 vested shares pursuant to the Southern Union Directors'
Deferred Compensation Plan (the "Directors' Plan").
(5) These shares are owned by SUG 3 L.P. in which George Lindemann Jr. is the
sole general partner.
(6) The information set forth in the table above with respect to the Bass
reporting persons and the information in this note were obtained from and
are reported herein in reliance upon a Schedule 13G filed by: Sid R. Bass
Management Trust, 820 Management Trust, Bass Enterprises Production
Company, the Bass Foundation, and the Lee and Ramona Bass Foundation
(collectively, the "Bass Reporting Persons"), on November 3, 1999 (as
adjusted for any stock dividends since the date of such report). Because
of their relationships with certain of these persons, Sid R. Bass, Perry
M. Bass and Lee M. Bass may be considered controlling persons with respect
to certain of the Bass Reporting Persons, all as described in said
Schedule 13G.
(7) This information regarding share ownership by Baron Capital Group, ("BCG")
was obtained from and is reported herein in reliance upon a Schedule 13G,
as amended through June 29, 2000 (the "Baron Filing") filed by BCG, BAMCO,
("BAMCO"), Baron Capital Management, ("BCM"), Baron Asset Fund ("BAF") and
Ronald Baron (collectively, the "Baron Filing Group"). Pursuant to the
Baron Filing, the members of the Baron Filing Group own beneficially and
have shared power to vote or direct the vote of and to dispose or direct
the disposition of the following number of shares of Southern Union common
stock: BCG--5,773,537 shares; BAMCO--4,282,250 shares; BCM--1,491,287
shares; BAF--2,870,000 shares; and Mr. Baron--5,773,537 shares. The
members of the Baron Filing Group disclaim beneficial ownership in each
other's shares.
78
<PAGE>
SOUTHERN UNION MANAGEMENT OWNERSHIP
The following table shows the number of shares of Southern Union common stock,
beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, as of June 30, 2000, by individual
directors and named executive officers, and all directors and named executive
officers as a group, who held such positions as of the Southern Union record
date. Unless otherwise specified, shares are beneficially owned directly by
the director or officer.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AMOUNT AND NATURE OF
BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP PERCENT
NUMBER OF SHARES OF
NAME OF BENEFICIAL OWNER BENEFICIALLY OWNED (1) CLASS
------------------------ ---------------------- -------
<S> <C> <C>
George L. Lindemann 5,320,998 (2)(3) 10.63%
Adam M. Lindemann 2,893,420 (3)(4) 5.84%
John E. Brennan 692,375 (5) 1.39%
Frank W. Denius 67,480 (6) *
Aaron I. Fleischman 564,302 (7) 1.14%
Kurt A. Gitter, M.D 194,229 (8) *
Thomas F. Karam 660,759 (9) 1.32%
Peter H. Kelley 554,825 (10) 1.11%
Roger J. Pearson 42,446 (11) *
George Rountree, III 63,502 (12) *
Ronald W. Simms 630,346 (13) 1.27%
Dan K. Wassong 59,471 (14) *
Steve W. Cattron 12,758 (15) *
Ronald J. Endres 379,070 (16) *
David J. Kvapil 59,001 (17) *
Dennis K. Morgan 80,805 (18) *
David W. Stevens 89,791 (19) *
All directors and officers as a group (17 persons) 12,971,583 (20) 26.20%
</TABLE>
--------------
* Less than one percent.
(1) Includes options to acquire shares of Southern Union common stock that are
exercisable presently or within 60 days of June 30, 2000.
(2) For a description of the shares of Southern Union common stock
beneficially owned by Mr. George L. Lindemann and included in the above
table, see note (2) to the table set forth in "--Beneficial Owners of
More Than 5% of Southern Union's Outstanding Securities."
(3) For information regarding beneficial share ownership by members of the
Lindemann Family, see note (3) to the table set forth in "--Beneficial
Owners of More Than 5% of Southern Union's Outstanding Securities."
(4) For a description of the shares of Southern Union common stock
beneficially owned by Mr. Adam M. Lindemann and included in the above
table, see note (4) to the table set forth in "--Beneficial Owners of
More Than 5% of Southern Union's Outstanding Securities."
(5) Of these shares, 5,079 vested shares are held by the 401(k) Plan; 6,284
vested shares are held through the Supplemental Plan; 4,993 shares are
owned by his wife; 211,806 are held in two separate trusts for the benefit
of members of his family; 56,010 are held in an irrevocable trust under
the Southern Union Executive Deferred Stock Plan (the "Stock Plan"); and
247,506 represent shares that Mr. Brennan is entitled to purchase upon the
exercise of stock options exercisable presently or within 60 days of June
30, 2000 pursuant to the 1992 Plan.
(6) Includes: 955 shares owned by his wife; 44,017 shares that The Effie and
Wofford Cain Foundation (the "Foundation"), in which Mr. Denius is a
director, owns; and 8,360 vested shares pursuant to the Directors' Plan.
Mr. Denius disclaims beneficial ownership of those shares held by the
Foundation since he does not have a pecuniary interest in or control of
the Foundation's assets.
(7) Includes: 105,531 shares that Fleischman and Walsh, L.L.P., in which Mr.
Fleischman is Senior Partner, is entitled to purchase upon exercise of a
Warrant exercisable presently or within 60 days of June 30, 2000 ; 13,737
vested shares pursuant to the Directors' Plan; 112,215 shares owned by the
Fleischman and Walsh 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan for which Mr. Fleischman
is a trustee and a beneficiary; and 22,204 shares owned by the Aaron I.
Fleischman Foundation for which Mr. Fleischman is the sole trustee. Mr.
Fleischman disclaims beneficial ownership of those shares held by the
Fleischman and Walsh 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan, to the extent that he
does not have a pecuniary interest, and those shares held by the Aaron I.
Fleischman Foundation.
(8) Includes 6,829 vested shares pursuant to the Directors' Plan.
(9) Includes: 89,983 shares held by various entities through which Mr. Karam
has voting power; 21,703 shares held in the name of Lakeside Drive
Association, in which Mr. Karam's wife has an interest; 2,619 vested
shares held by the Southern Union Pennsylvania Division Employees'
Savings Plan for Mr. Karam; 1,160 vested shares held through the
Supplemental Plan; and 474,784 shares of Southern Union common stock Mr.
Karam is entitled to purchase upon the exercise of stock options
exercisable presently or within 60 days of June 30, 2000.
(10) Includes 309,913 shares that Mr. Kelley is entitled to purchase upon the
exercise of stock options exercisable presently or within 60 days of June
30, 2000 pursuant to the 1992 Plan. Such number also includes:35,306
shares held in the Stock Plan; 22,818 vested shares held by the 401(k)
Plan; 3,708 shares held through the Southern Union Company Direct Stock
Purchase Plan; and 38,332 vested shares held through the Supplemental
Plan.
(11) Includes 3,082 shares held by Mr. Pearson as Custodian (pursuant to the
Uniform Gifts to Minors Act) for his children; and 4,998 vested shares
pursuant to the Directors' Plan.
(12) Includes 1,444 shares owned by his wife and 16,032 vested shares allocated
to Mr. Rountree pursuant to the Directors' Plan. Also includes 3,150
shares owned by the Rountree & Seagle Profit Sharing Plan & Trust for
which Mr. Rountree is a co-trustee and co-administrator. Mr. Rountree
disclaims beneficial ownership of shares held by such plan to the extent
that he has no pecuniary interest.
(13) Includes: 149,364 shares owned by Mr. Simms's wife; 178,796 shares for
which Mr. Simms has voting power; and 59,348 shares of Southern Union
common stock Mr. Simms is entitled to purchase upon the exercise of stock
options exercisable presently or within 60 days of June 30, 2000.
(14) Includes 6,362 vested shares pursuant to the Directors' Plan.
(15) Includes 2,187 vested shares held through the Supplemental Plan, 153
vested shares held by the 401(k) Plan and 10,418 shares Mr. Cattron is
entitled to purchase upon the exercise of stock options exercisable
presently or within 60 days of June 30, 2000 pursuant to the 1992 Plan.
79
<PAGE>
(16) Includes 253,526 shares Mr. Endres is entitled to purchase upon the
exercise of stock options exercisable presently or within 60 days of June
30, 2000 pursuant to the 1992 Plan. Such number also includes: 12,776
vested shares held through the 401(k) Plan; 23,228 vested shares held
through the Supplemental Plan; and 315 shares owned by Mr. Endres's
children.
(17) Includes 34,779 shares that Mr. Kvapil is entitled to purchase upon the
exercise of stock options exercisable presently or within 60 days of June
30, 2000 pursuant to the1992 Plan. Such number also includes 11,571 vested
shares held through the Supplemental Plan; 4,248 vested shares held by the
401(k) Plan; and 3,804 shares held through the Southern Union Company
Direct Stock Purchase Plan.
(18) Includes 60,182 shares Mr. Morgan is entitled to purchase upon the
exercise of stock options presently or within 60 days of June 30, 2000
pursuant to the 1992 Plan. Such number also includes 4,664 vested shares
held through the 401(k) Plan and 12,678 vested shares held through the
Supplemental Plan.
(19) Includes 58,430 shares that Mr. Stevens is entitled to purchase upon the
exercise of stock options exercisable presently or within 60 days of June
30, 2000 pursuant to the 1992 Plan. Such number also includes: 12,722
vested shares held by the 401(k) Plan; 1,825 vested shares held through
the Southern Union Company Direct Stock Purchase Plan and 14,061 vested
shares held through the Supplemental Plan.
(20) Excludes options granted pursuant to the 1992 Plan to acquire shares of
Southern Union common stock that are not presently exercisable or do not
become exercisable within 60 days of June 30, 2000. Includes vested shares
held through certain Southern Union benefit and deferred savings plans for
which certain executive officers and directors may be deemed beneficial
owners, but excludes shares which have not vested under the terms of such
plans. Also, includes 606,005 shares held by a "Rabbi Trust" known as the
Trust for Miscellaneous Southern Union Company Deferred Compensation
Arrangements ("Rabbi Trust"). The shares are held as a part of Southern
Union's efforts to provide funding for a portion of the future liability
under the Southern Union Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan ("SERP").
Any assets held for the benefit of the SERP are held in the Rabbi Trust.
Southern Union management directly or indirectly controls the investment
of any assets, and the voting of any securities, held for the SERP.
BENEFICIAL OWNERS OF MORE THAN 5% OF FALL RIVER GAS' COMMON STOCK
At the close of business on May 31, 2000, directors and officers of Fall River
Gas beneficially owned and were entitled to vote approximately 297,877 shares
of Fall River Gas common stock, which represented approximately 13.3% of the
shares of Fall River Gas common stock outstanding on that date. Each of them
has indicated his or her present intention to vote, or cause to be voted, the
Fall River Gas common stock owned by him or her for the proposal to approve
and adopt the merger agreement. Ronald J. Ferris and Barabara N. Jarabek, as
Managing General Partner to The Jarabek Family Limited Partnership, entered
into a voting agreement with Southern Union along with certain other
stockholders of Fall River Gas, each of whom own less than 5% of the common
stock of Fall River Gas. Under the terms of the voting agreement, they have
agreed to vote or cause to be voted the Fall River Gas common stock owned by
them for the approval and adoption of the merger agreement and they have
granted Southern Union an irrevocable proxy to vote the shares of Fall River
Gas common stock owned by them (see "The Fall River Gas Merger
Agreement--Covenants and Other Agreements-Fall River Gas Voting Agreement").
No person or group owns of record or is known by Fall River Gas to own
beneficially more than 5% of Fall River Gas' outstanding common stock, other
than as set forth in the following table.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SHARES OF COMMON
STOCK BENEFICIALLY PERCENT
NAME AND ADDRESS OF OWNED AS OF OF
BENEFICIAL OWNER MAY 31, 2000 CLASS
---------------- ------------------ -------
<S> <C> <C>
Ronald J. Ferris 145,059 Shares (1) 6.6%
75 GAR Highway
Swansea, Massachusetts
Barbara N. Jarabek 295,710 Shares (2) 13.2%
103 South Washington Drive
Sarasota, Florida
</TABLE>
-----------------------
(1) Includes 5,852 shares owned jointly with Dale Ferris; 4,000 shares owned
jointly with children of Mr. Ferris; 36,990 shares owned by Lee's River
Realty, Inc., 3,926 shares held in trusts for the children of Mr. Ferris;
and 53,594 shares owned by the Swansea Lounge, Inc. Pension Trust for
which Mr. Ferris is a co-trustee. Mr. Ferris has shared voting and
investment power with respect to all shares beneficially owned by him
except for 40,697 shares owned directly and of record by him, with
respect to which he has sole voting and investment power. Mr. Ferris
disclaims beneficial ownership with respect to the 3,926 shares held in
trust for his children and the 53,594 shares owned by the Swansea Lounge,
Inc. Pension Trust.
(2) Consists of shares held in The Jarabek Family Limited Partnership for
which Barbara N. Jarabek is Managing General Partner, and with respect to
which Mrs. Jarabek possesses sole power to vote and sole investment power.
80
<PAGE>
FALL RIVER GAS MANAGEMENT OWNERSHIP
The following table shows the number of shares of Fall River Gas common stock,
beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, as of May 31, 2000, by individual
directors and officers, and all directors and officers as a group, who held
such positions as of May 31, 2000. Unless otherwise specified, shares are
beneficially owned directly by the director or officer. Bradford J. Faxon,
Raymond H. Faxon, Ronald J. Ferris, Cindy L.J. Audette, Thomas H. Bilodeau and
Gilbert C. Oliveira, Jr., each has entered a voting agreement with Southern
Union. Under the terms of the voting agreement, each has agreed to vote or
cause to be voted the Fall River Gas common stock owned by him or her for the
approval and adoption of the merger agreement and each has granted Southern
Union an irrevocable proxy to vote the shares of Fall River Gas common stock
owned by them (see "The Merger Agreement Covenants and Other Agreements --
Fall River Gas Voting Agreement").
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AMOUNT AND NATURE OF
BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP PERCENT
NUMBER OF SHARES OF
NAME OF BENEFICIAL OWNER BENEFICIALLY OWNED CLASS
------------------------ -------------------- -------
<S> <C> <C>
Bradford J. Faxon 40,306 (1) 1.7%
Raymond H. Faxon 57,370 (2) 2.6%
Ronald J. Ferris 145,059 (3) 6.5%
Cindy L.J. Audette 13,190 (4) *
Jack R. McCormick 4,901 *
Donald R. Patnode 1,750 *
Thomas K. Barry 2,200 *
Thomas H. Bilodeau 9,006 (5) *
Gilbert C. Oliveira, Jr. 12,530 (6) *
Peter H. Thanas 6,125 (7) *
Robert J. Pollock 5,140 *
All directors and officers as a group (13 persons) 297,877 13.3%
</TABLE>
--------------------------------
* Less than one percent.
(1) Includes 4,952 shares held as custodian for Bradford J. Faxon's children.
(2) Comprised of 57,370 shares held in trust, for which Raymond H. Faxon is a
trustee.
(3) Includes 5,852 shares owned jointly with Dale Ferris, 4,000 shares owned
jointly with children of Mr. Ferris, 36,990 shares owned by Lee's River
Realty, Inc., 3,926 shares held in trusts for the children of Mr. Ferris,
and 53,594 shares owned by the Swansea Lounge, Inc. Pension Trust for
which Mr. Ferris is a co-trustee. Mr. Ferris has shared voting and
investment power with respect to all shares beneficially owned by him
except for 40,697 shares owned directly and of record by him, with
respect to which he has sole voting and investment power. Mr. Ferris
disclaims beneficial ownership with respect to the 3,926 shares held in
trust for his children and the 53,594 shares owned by the Swansea Lounge,
Inc. Pension Trust.
(4) Includes 660 shares held jointly with spouse (with shared voting and
investment power).
(5) Includes 7,746 shares held in trust for Thomas H. Bilodeau's children.
(6) Comprised of 9,529 shares held by Mr. Oliveira's spouse as custodian for a
minor child of Mr. Oliveira.
(7) Includes 2,528 shares held jointly with spouse (with shared voting and
investment power), 671 shares held as custodian for Mr. Thanas' minor son
and 671 shares held as custodian for Mr. Thanas' minor daughter (with sole
voting and investment power).
81
<PAGE>
PROVENERGY MANAGEMENT OWNERSHIP
On May 31, 2000, to the best of ProvEnergy's knowledge, no person (including
any "Group," as that term is used in Section 13(d)(3) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934) was the beneficial owner of more than five percent of
ProvEnergy's outstanding common stock, $1.00 par value (there being no other
voting securities of ProvEnergy outstanding).
The following table reflects as of May 31, 2000, the beneficial ownership of
shares of common stock of ProvEnergy (ignoring fractional shares) by directors
and executive officers of ProvEnergy (all shares being owned directly, except
as otherwise noted):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MANAGEMENT AND DIRECTORS STOCK OWNERSHIP TABLE AS OF MAY 31, 2000
SHARES BENEFICIALLY OWNED*
-------------------------------
NAME OF INDIVIDUAL OR ISSUED SHARES SUBJECT
IDENTIFICATION OF GROUP SHARES TO OPTIONS**
----------------------- ---------- --------------
<S> <C> <C>
Gilbert R. Bodell, Jr............................ 3,367 (1) 5,632
James DeMetro.................................... 8,400 3,000
James H. Dodge................................... 15,339 (2) 15,000
James A. Grasso.................................. 3,613 none
John H. Howland.................................. 679 3,327
Douglas H. Johnson............................... 769 3,651
William Kreykes.................................. 723 915
Paul F. Levy..................................... 1,761 (3) none
Romolo A. Marsella............................... 735 3,242
Robert W. Owens.................................. 7,263 (4) 5,000
M. Anne Szostak.................................. 836 1,650
Kenneth W. Washburn.............................. 1,975 6,116
W. Edward Wood................................... 1,133 1,580
Gerald A. Yurkevicz.............................. 1,799 none
All Directors and Executive Officers as a Group.. 57,284 (5) 49,113
</TABLE>
-------------------
* The beneficial ownership of shares of directors and executive officers of
ProvEnergy (including shares subject to options) in no individual case
exceeded one percent of the outstanding common stock of ProvEnergy. Such
ownership represented in the aggregate approximately one percent of the
outstanding common stock.
** To the extent exercisable within 60 days.
(1) Includes 888 shares held by Mr. Bodell's wife.
(2) Includes 4,676 shares held by Mr. Dodge's wife.
(3) Includes 550 shares held in Trust by Mr. Levy's mother.
(4) Includes 672 shares held by Mr. Owens' wife as custodian for
their children.
(5) Includes 43,783 shares held directly, and 13,501 shares held indirectly.
82
<PAGE>
PROPOSALS OF STOCKHOLDERS
In order to be considered for inclusion in the proxy statement for Southern
Union's next annual meeting of stockholders expected to be held in November
2000, stockholder proposals must have been submitted in writing by June 30,
2000, to Dennis K. Morgan, Corporate Secretary, at Southern Union Company, 504
Lavaca Street, Eighth Floor, Austin, Texas 78701.
OTHER MATTERS
Except for the matters set forth above, the board of directors knows of no
other matters which may be presented to the special meeting of stockholders,
but if any other matters properly come before such meeting, it is the
intention of the persons named in the accompanying form of proxy to vote such
proxies in accordance with their judgment.
EXPERTS
The consolidated financial statements of Southern Union included in its Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the years ended June 30, 1999, 1998 and 1997, have
been incorporated in this proxy statement by reference and have been so
incorporated in reliance on the report of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP,
independent accountants, given on the authority of said firm as experts in
auditing and accounting.
The consolidated financial statements of PEI for the years ended December 31,
1998 and 1997 included in PEI's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
December 31, 1998, and incorporated in this proxy statement by reference, have
been so incorporated in reliance on the report of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP,
independent accountants, given on the authority of said firm as experts in
auditing and accounting.
The consolidated financial statements and schedules of PEI for the year ended
December 31, 1996 included in PEI's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year
ended December 31, 1998, and incorporated in this proxy statement by
reference, were audited by Arthur Andersen LLP, independent public
accountants, as indicated in their report with respect thereto, and are
incorporated by reference herein in reliance upon the authority of said firm
as experts in giving said report.
The consolidated financial statements and schedules of Fall River Gas
incorporated by reference in this proxy statement have been audited by Arthur
Andersen LLP, independent public accountants, as indicated in their reports
with respect thereto, and are included herein in reliance upon the authority
of said firm as experts in giving said reports.
The consolidated financial statements and schedules of ProvEnergy incorporated
by reference in this proxy statement have been audited by Arthur Andersen LLP,
independent public accountants, as indicated in their reports with respect
thereto, and are included herein in reliance upon the authority of said firm
as experts in giving said reports.
The consolidated financial statements of Valley Resources for the years ended
August 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997 included in Southern Union's Form 8-K filed on
June 5, 2000, have been incorporated in this proxy statement by reference to
Southern Union's Current Report on Form 8-K in reliance on the report of Grant
Thornton LLP, independent accountants, given on the authority of said firm as
experts in auditing and accounting.
83
<PAGE>
OTHER BUSINESS
The Southern Union board of directors does not intend to bring any other
business before the Southern Union special meeting, and, so far as is known to
the Fall River Gas board, no other business is to be brought before the meeting.
It is intended that proxies, in the form enclosed, will be voted in regards to
any business that may properly come before the meeting in accordance with the
judgment of the persons voting such proxies.
PLEASE DATE, SIGN AND RETURN THE ENCLOSED PROXY.
By Order of the Board of Directors,
/s/ DENNIS K. MORGAN
--------------------
Dennis K. Morgan
SECRETARY
Austin, Texas
July 12, 2000
84
<PAGE>
APPENDIX A
AGREEMENT OF MERGER
BETWEEN
SOUTHERN UNION COMPANY
AND
FALL RIVER GAS COMPANY
DATED AS OF OCTOBER 4, 1999
A-i
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE
----
<S> <C>
ARTICLE 1 DEFINITIONS.....................................................................................1
Section 1.1 Certain Defined Terms...........................................................................1
Section 1.2 Other Defined Terms.............................................................................5
ARTICLE II THE MERGER; OTHER TRANSACTIONS..................................................................6
Section 2.1 The Merger......................................................................................6
Section 2.2 Effective Time of the Merger....................................................................6
Section 2.3 Closing.........................................................................................7
Section 2.4 Certificate of Incorporation; Bylaws............................................................7
Section 2.5 Directors and Officers..........................................................................7
ARTICLE III CONVERSION OF SHARES............................................................................7
Section 3.1 Effect of the Merger............................................................................7
Section 3.2 Exchange of FAL Common Stock Certificates.......................................................8
Section 3.3 Dissenting Shares..............................................................................10
ARTICLE IV REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF SUG..........................................................10
Section 4.1 Organization, Existence and Qualification......................................................10
Section 4.2 Capitalization.................................................................................10
Section 4.3 Subsidiaries; Investments......................................................................10
Section 4.4 Authority Relative to this Agreement and Binding Effect........................................10
Section 4.5 Governmental Approvals.........................................................................11
Section 4.6 Public Utility Holding Company Status; Regulation as a Public Utility..........................11
Section 4.7 Compliance with Legal Requirements; Governmental Authorizations................................11
Section 4.8 Legal Proceedings; Orders......................................................................11
Section 4.9 SEC Documents..................................................................................11
Section 4.10 Taxes..........................................................................................12
Section 4.11 Intellectual Property..........................................................................12
Section 4.12 Contracts......................................................................................12
Section 4.13 Indebtedness...................................................................................12
Section 4.14 Employee Benefit Plans.........................................................................13
Section 4.15 Environmental Matters..........................................................................14
Section 4.16 No Material Adverse Change.....................................................................14
Section 4.17 Brokers........................................................................................14
Section 4.18 Proxy Statement; Registration Statement........................................................14
Section 4.19 No Vote Required...............................................................................15
Section 4.20 Disclaimer of Representations and Warranties...................................................15
ARTICLE V REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF FAL..........................................................15
Section 5.1 Organization, Existence and Qualification......................................................15
Section 5.2 Capitalization.................................................................................15
Section 5.3 Subsidiaries; Investments......................................................................16
Section 5.4 Authority Relative to this Agreement and Binding Effect........................................16
Section 5.5 Governmental Approvals.........................................................................16
Section 5.6 Public Utility Holding Company Status; Regulation as a Public Utility..........................16
Section 5.7 Compliance with Legal Requirements; Governmental Authorizations................................16
Section 5.8 Legal Proceedings; Orders......................................................................17
Section 5.9 SEC Documents..................................................................................17
Section 5.10 Taxes..........................................................................................17
Section 5.11 Intellectual Property..........................................................................17
Section 5.12 Title to Assets................................................................................18
Section 5.13 Indebtedness...................................................................................18
Section 5.14 Machinery and Equipment........................................................................18
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Section 5.15 Applicable Contracts...........................................................................18
Section 5.16 Insurance......................................................................................18
Section 5.17 Employees......................................................................................18
Section 5.18 Employee Benefit Plans.........................................................................19
Section 5.19 Environmental Matters..........................................................................20
Section 5.20 No Material Adverse Change.....................................................................21
Section 5.21 Brokers........................................................................................21
Section 5.22 Regulatory Proceedings.........................................................................21
Section 5.23 Proxy Statement; Registration Statement........................................................21
Section 5.24 Vote Required..................................................................................21
Section 5.25 Opinion of Financial Advisor...................................................................21
Section 5.26 Disclaimer of Representations and Warranties...................................................22
ARTICLE VI COVENANTS......................................................................................22
Section 6.1 Covenants of FAL...............................................................................22
(a) Conduct of the Business Prior to the Closing Date..............................................22
(b) Customer Notifications.........................................................................23
(c) Access to the Acquired Companies' Offices, Properties and Records; Updating Information........23
(d) Governmental Approvals; Third Party Consents...................................................24
(e) Dividends......................................................................................24
(f) Issuance of Securities.........................................................................24
(g) Accounting.....................................................................................24
(h) No Shopping....................................................................................25
(i) Solicitation of Proxies; FAL Proxy Statement...................................................26
(j) FAL Stockholders' Approval.....................................................................26
(k) Rule 145 Letters...............................................................................26
(l) Financing Activities...........................................................................26
(m) FAL Disclosure Schedule........................................................................27
(n) FAL Bondholders' Consent.......................................................................27
Section 6.2 Covenants of SUG...............................................................................27
(a) Governmental Approvals; Third Party Consents...................................................27
(b) Employees; Benefits............................................................................27
(c) Blue Sky Permits...............................................................................27
(d) Listing Application............................................................................27
(e) Collective Bargaining Agreements...............................................................27
(f) SUG Disclosure Schedule........................................................................28
(g) Conduct of the Business Prior to the Closing Date..............................................28
(h) Access to SUG's Offices, Properties and Records; Updating Information..........................28
Section 6.3 Additional Agreements..........................................................................28
(a) The Registration Statement and the FAL Proxy Statement.........................................28
(b) Further Assurances.............................................................................29
(c) Financial Statements to be Provided............................................................29
ARTICLE VII CONDITIONS.....................................................................................29
Section 7.1 Conditions to SUG's Obligation to Effect the Merger............................................29
(a) Representations and Warranties True as of the Closing Date.....................................29
(b) Compliance with Agreements.....................................................................29
(c) Certificate....................................................................................30
(d) Governmental Approvals.........................................................................30
(e) Third Party Consents...........................................................................30
(f) Injunctions....................................................................................30
(g) Resignations...................................................................................30
(h) Opinion of Tax Counsel.........................................................................30
(i) FAL Stockholders' Approval.....................................................................30
(j) Appraisal Rights...............................................................................30
(k) Rule 145 Letters...............................................................................30
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(l) Registration Statement.....................................................................30
(m) Listing of SUG Common Stock................................................................30
(n) FAL Bondholders' Consent...................................................................30
Section 7.2 Conditions to FAL's Obligations to Effect the Merger.......................................31
(a) Representations and Warranties True as of the Closing Date.................................31
(b) Compliance with Agreements.................................................................31
(c) Certificate................................................................................31
(d) Governmental Approvals.....................................................................31
(e) Injunctions................................................................................31
(f) Opinion of Counsel.........................................................................31
(g) FAL Stockholders' Approval.................................................................31
(h) Registration Statement.....................................................................31
(i) Listing of SUG Common Stock................................................................31
ARTICLE VIII TERMINATION................................................................................31
Section 8.1 Termination Rights.........................................................................31
Section 8.2 Effect of Termination......................................................................32
Section 8.3 Termination Fee; Expenses..................................................................33
(a) Termination Fee............................................................................33
(b) Expenses...................................................................................33
ARTICLE IX INDEMNIFICATION; REMEDIES..................................................................33
Section 9.1 Directors' and Officers' Indemnification...................................................33
(a) Indemnification and Insurance..............................................................33
(b) Successors.................................................................................33
(c) Survival of Indemnification................................................................33
Section 9.2 Representations and Warranties.............................................................33
ARTICLE X GENERAL PROVISIONS.........................................................................34
Section 10.1 Expenses...................................................................................34
Section 10.2 Notices....................................................................................34
Section 10.3 Assignment.................................................................................35
Section 10.4 Successor Bound............................................................................35
Section 10.5 Governing Law; Forum; Consent to Jurisdiction..............................................35
Section 10.6 Waiver of Trial By Jury....................................................................35
Section 10.7 Cooperation; Further Documents.............................................................35
Section 10.8 Construction of Agreement..................................................................36
Section 10.9 Publicity; Organizational and Operational Announcements....................................36
Section 10.10 Waiver.....................................................................................36
Section 10.11 Parties in Interest........................................................................36
Section 10.12 Specific Performance.......................................................................36
Section 10.13 Section and Paragraph Headings.............................................................36
Section 10.14 Amendment..................................................................................36
Section 10.15 Entire Agreement...........................................................................36
Section 10.16 Counterparts...............................................................................36
</TABLE>
Disclosure Schedules:
---------------------
FAL Disclosure Schedule
SUG Disclosure Schedule
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AGREEMENT OF MERGER
This AGREEMENT OF MERGER (this "Agreement") is made as of the 4th day of
October, 1999, by and between SOUTHERN UNION COMPANY, a Delaware corporation
("SUG"), and FALL RIVER GAS COMPANY, a Massachusetts corporation ("FAL").
RECITALS
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of each of SUG and FAL has approved and deems
it advisable and in the best interests of their respective stockholders to
consummate the merger of FAL with and into SUG upon the terms and subject to
the conditions set forth herein; and
WHEREAS, in furtherance thereof, the Board of Directors of each of SUG and FAL
has approved this Agreement and the merger of FAL with and into SUG, with SUG
being the surviving corporation (the "Merger");
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and the mutual covenants and
agreements herein contained, and intending to be legally bound hereby, SUG and
FAL hereby agree as follows:
ARTICLE I
DEFINITIONS
SECTION 1.1 CERTAIN DEFINED TERMS. For purposes of this Agreement, the
following terms have the meanings specified or referred to in this Article I
(such definitions to be equally applicable to both the singular and plural
forms of the terms defined):
"ACQUIRED COMPANIES"--FAL and its Subsidiaries, collectively, and each,
an "Acquired Company."
"AFFILIATE"--with respect to any Person, any other Person that directly,
or through one or more intermediaries, controls or is controlled by or is
under common control with such first Person. As used in this definition,
"control" (including with correlative meanings, "controlled by" and "under
common control with") shall mean possession, directly or indirectly, of
power to direct or cause the direction of management or policies (whether
through ownership of securities or partnership or other ownership
interests, by contract or otherwise).
"APPLICABLE CONTRACT""--any Contract (a) under which any Acquired Company
has any rights, (b) under which any Acquired Company has any obligation or
liability, or (c) by which any Acquired Company or any of the assets owned
or used by it is bound.
"AVERAGE TRADING PRICE"--of SUG Common Stock, as of any date, will equal
the average of the reported closing market prices of such stock for the
ten consecutive trading days ending on the third trading day prior to
such date (counting from and including the trading day immediately
preceding such date). The closing market price for each day in question
will be the last sale price, regular way or, if no such sale takes place
on such day, the average of the closing bid and asked prices, regular
way, in either case as reported in the principal consolidated transaction
reporting system of the principal national securities exchange on which
SUG Common Stock is listed or admitted to trading.
"CERCLA"--the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation
and Liability Act of 1980, as amended.
"CLOSING DATE"--the date on which the Closing actually takes place.
"CONTRACT"--any agreement, contract, document, instrument, obligation,
promise or undertaking (whether written or oral) that is legally binding.
"DGCL"--the Delaware General Corporation Law.
"ENCUMBRANCE"--any charge, adverse claim, lien, mortgage, pledge, security
interest or other encumbrance.
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"ENVIRONMENT"--soil, land surface or subsurface strata, surface waters
(including navigable waters, ocean waters, streams, ponds, drainage
basins, and wetlands), groundwaters, drinking water supply, stream
sediments, ambient air (including indoor air), plant and animal life, and
any other environmental medium or natural resource.
"ENVIRONMENTAL LAW"--any Legal Requirement that requires or relates to:
(a) advising appropriate authorities, employees, and the public of
intended or actual releases of pollutants or hazardous substances
or materials, violations of discharge limits, or other
prohibitions and of the commencements of activities, such as
resource extraction or construction, that could have significant
impact on the Environment;
(b) preventing or reducing to acceptable levels the release of
pollutants or hazardous substances or materials into the
Environment;
(c) reducing the quantities, preventing the release, or minimizing
the hazardous characteristics of wastes that are generated;
(d) reducing to acceptable levels the risks inherent in the
transportation of hazardous substances, pollutants, oil, or other
potentially harmful; or
(e) making responsible parties pay private parties, or groups of
them, for damages done to their health or the Environment, or
permitting self-appointed representatives of the public interest
to recover for injuries done to public assets or for damages to
natural resources.
"ERISA"--the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended,
or any successor law, and regulations and rules issued pursuant to that
act or any successor law.
"EXCHANGE ACT"--the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or any
successor law, and regulations and rules issued by the SEC pursuant to
that act or any successor law.
"FACILITIES"--any real property, leaseholds, or other interests currently
or formerly owned or operated by any Acquired Company and any buildings,
plants, structures, or equipment (including motor vehicles, tank cars, and
rolling stock) currently or formerly owned or operated by any Acquired
Company.
"FAL BALANCE SHEET"--the audited consolidated balance sheet of the
Acquired Companies at September 30, 1998 (including the notes thereto),
provided by FAL to SUG as part of the FAL Financial Statements.
"FAL COMMON STOCK"--the common stock, par value $.83 1/3 per share, of
FAL.
"FAL DISCLOSURE SCHEDULE"--the disclosure schedule delivered by FAL to SUG
concurrently with the execution and delivery of this Agreement.
"FAL MATERIAL ADVERSE EFFECT"--a material adverse effect (i) on the
business, operations, financial condition or results of operations of FAL
and its Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, or (ii) on the ability of FAL and
its Subsidiaries to consummate the Merger in accordance with this
Agreement.
"FAL PERMITTED LIENS"--Encumbrances securing Taxes, assessments,
governmental charges or levies, or the claims of materialmen, mechanics,
carriers and like persons, all of which are not yet due and payable or
which are being contested in good faith; Encumbrances (other than any
Encumbrance imposed by ERISA) incurred on deposits made in the Ordinary
Course of Business in connection with worker's compensation, unemployment
insurance or other types of social security; the Encumbrances created by
the Indenture of First Mortgage, dated as of December 1, 1952, between FAL
and State Street Bank and Trust Company, successor in interest to the
First National Bank of Boston, successor by merger to Old Colony Trust
Company, as Trustee, as amended or supplemented from time to time; in the
case of leased real property, Encumbrances (not attributable to an Acquired
Company as lessee) affecting the landlord's (and any
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underlying landlord's) interest in any leased real property; and such
other Encumbrances which are not, individually or in the aggregate,
reasonably likely to have a FAL Material Adverse Effect.
"FINAL ORDER"--an action by a Governmental Body as to which: (a) no request
for stay of the action is pending, no such stay is in effect and if any
time period is permitted by statute or regulation for filing any request
for such stay, such time period has passed; (b) no petition for rehearing,
reconsideration or application for review of the action is pending and the
time for filing any such petition or application has passed; (c) such
Governmental Body does not have the action under reconsideration on its own
motion and the time in which such reconsideration is permitted has passed;
and (d) no appeal to a court, or a request for stay by a court of the
Governmental Body's action is pending or in effect and the deadline for
filing any such appeal or request has passed.
"GAAP"--generally accepted United States accounting principles,
applied on a consistent basis.
"GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORIZATION"--any approval, consent, license, franchise,
certificate of public convenience and necessity, permit, waiver or other
authorization issued, granted, given, or otherwise made available by or
under the authority of any Governmental Body or pursuant to any Legal
Requirement.
"GOVERNMENTAL BODY"--any:
(a) nation, state, county, city, town, village, district or other
jurisdiction of any nature;
(b) federal, state, county, local, municipal or other
government;
(c) governmental or quasi-governmental authority of any nature
(including any governmental agency, branch, department, official
or entity and any court or other tribunal); or
(d) body exercising, or entitled to exercise, any administrative,
executive, judicial, legislative, police, regulatory or taxing
authority or power of any nature.
"HAZARDOUS ACTIVITY"--the distribution, generation, handling, importing,
management, manufacturing, processing, production, refinement, Release,
storage, transfer, transportation, treatment, or use (including any
withdrawal or other use of groundwater) of Hazardous Materials in, on,
under, about, or from the Facilities or any part thereof into the
Environment, any other act, business, operation, or thing that increases
the danger, or risk of danger, or poses an unreasonable risk of harm to
persons or property on or off the Facilities, or that may affect the value
of the Facilities or the Acquired Companies.
"HAZARDOUS MATERIALS"--any waste or other substance that is listed,
defined, designated, or classified as, or otherwise determined to be,
hazardous, radioactive, or toxic or a pollutant or a contaminant under or
pursuant to any Environmental Law, including any admixture or solution
thereof, and specifically including petroleum and all derivatives thereof
or synthetic substitutes therefor and asbestos or asbestos-containing
materials.
"HSR ACT"--the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as
amended, or any successor law, and regulations and rules issued by the U.S.
Department of Justice or the Federal Trade Commission pursuant to that act
or any successor law.
"IRC"--the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
"IRS"--the Internal Revenue Service or any successor agency.
"KNOWLEDGE"--an individual will be deemed to have "Knowledge" of a
particular fact or other matter if such individual is actually aware of
such fact or other matter. A Person (other than an individual) will be
deemed to have "Knowledge" of a particular fact or other matter if any
individual who is serving as a director or officer of such Person or any
material Subsidiary of it or other management employee with direct
responsibility for such particular fact or other matter of such Person or
any material Subsidiary of it (or in any similar capacity) has actual
knowledge of such fact or other matter.
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"LEGAL REQUIREMENT"--any federal, state, county, local, municipal, foreign,
international, multinational, or other administrative order, constitution,
law, ordinance, principle of common law, regulation, rule, tariff,
franchise agreement, statute or treaty.
"MATERIAL CONTRACT"--a Contract involving a total commitment by or to any
party thereto of at least $65,000 on an annual basis or at least $250,000
on its remaining term which cannot be terminated on no more than sixty (60)
days' notice without penalty or additional cost to the Acquired Company as
the terminating party.
"MBCL"--the Massachusetts Business Corporation Law.
"ORDER"--any award, decision, decree, injunction, judgment, order, writ,
ruling, subpoena, or verdict entered, issued, made, or rendered by any
court, administrative agency, or other Governmental Body or by any
arbitrator.
"ORDINARY COURSE OF BUSINESS"--an action taken by a Person will be deemed
to have been taken in the "Ordinary Course of Business" only if:
(a) such action and authorization therefor is consistent with the past
practices of such Person and is taken in the ordinary course of
the normal day-to-day operations of such Person; and
(b) such action is not required by law to be authorized by the board
of directors (or similar authority) of such Person or of such
Person's parent company (if any).
"ORGANIZATIONAL DOCUMENTS"--(a) the articles or certificate of
incorporation or organization and the bylaws of a corporation; (b) the
partnership agreement and any statement of partnership of a general
partnership; (c) the limited partnership agreement and the certificate of
limited partnership of a limited partnership; (d) the certificate of
formation and the members, operating or similar agreement of a limited
liability company; (e) any charter or similar document adopted or filed in
connection with the creation, formation or organization of a Person; and
(f) any amendment to any of the foregoing.
"PERSON"--any individual, corporation (including any non-profit
corporation), general or limited partnership, limited liability company,
joint venture, estate, trust, association, organization, labor union,
organized group of persons, entity of any other type, or Governmental Body.
"PROCEEDING"--any action, arbitration, hearing, litigation or suit (whether
civil, criminal, administrative, investigative, or informal) commenced,
brought, conducted, or heard by or before, or otherwise involving, any
Governmental Body or arbitrator.
"PUHCA"--the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935, as amended, or any
successor law, and regulations and rules issued by the SEC pursuant to that
act or any successor law.
"RELATED DOCUMENTS"--any Contract provided for in this Agreement to be
entered into by one or more of the parties hereto or their respective
Subsidiaries in connection with the Merger.
"RELEASE"--any spilling, leaking, emitting, discharging, depositing,
escaping, leaching, dumping, or other releasing into the Environment,
whether intentional or unintentional.
"REPRESENTATIVE"--with respect to a particular Person, any director,
officer, employee, agent, consultant, advisor, or other representative of
such Person, including legal counsel, accountants, and financial advisors.
"SEC"--the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or any
successor agency.
"SECURITIES ACT"--the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any successor
law, and regulations and rules issued by the SEC pursuant to that act or
any successor law.
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"SUBSIDIARY"--with respect to any Person (the "Owner"), any Person of which
securities or other interests having the power to elect a majority of that
other Person's board of directors or similar governing body, or otherwise
having the power to direct the business and policies of that corporation or
other Person (other than securities or other interests having such power
only upon the happening of a contingency that has not occurred) are held by
the Owner or one or more of its Subsidiaries; when used without reference
to a particular Person, "Subsidiary" means a Subsidiary of FAL.
"SUG BALANCE SHEET"--the audited consolidated balance sheet of SUG at June
30, 1999 (including the notes thereto), provided by SUG to FAL as part of
the SUG Financial Statements.
"SUG COMMON STOCK"--the common stock, par value $1.00 per share, of SUG.
"SUG DISCLOSURE SCHEDULE"--the disclosure schedule delivered by SUG to FAL
concurrently with the execution and delivery of this Agreement.
"SUG MATERIAL ADVERSE EFFECT"--a material adverse effect (i) on the
business, operations, financial condition or results of operations of SUG
and its Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, or (ii) on the ability of SUG to
consummate the Merger in accordance with this Agreement.
"TAX"--any tax (including any income tax, capital gains tax, value-added
tax, sales and use tax, franchise tax, payroll tax, withholding tax or
property tax), levy, assessment, tariff, duty (including any customs duty),
deficiency, franchise fee or payment, payroll tax, utility tax, gross
receipts tax or other fee or payment, and any related charge or amount
(including any fine, penalty, interest or addition to tax), imposed,
assessed or collected by or under the authority of any Governmental Body or
payable pursuant to any tax-sharing agreement or any other Contract
relating to the sharing or payment of any such tax, levy, assessment,
tariff, duty, deficiency or fee.
"TAX RETURN"--any return (including any information return), report,
statement, schedule, notice, form, or other document or information filed
with or submitted to, or required to be filed with or submitted to, any
Governmental Body in connection with the determination, assessment,
collection, or payment of any Tax or in connection with the administration,
implementation, or enforcement of or compliance with any Legal Requirement
relating to any Tax.
"THREATENED"--a claim, Proceeding, dispute, action, or other matter will be
deemed to have been "Threatened" if any demand or statement has been made
(orally or in writing) or any notice has been given (orally or in writing),
or if any other event has occurred or any other circumstance exists, that
would lead a director, officer or management employee of a comparable gas
distribution company to conclude that such a claim, Proceeding, dispute,
action, or other matter is likely to be asserted, commenced, taken or
otherwise pursued in the future.
SECTION 1.2 OTHER DEFINED TERMS. In addition to the terms defined in Section
1.1, certain other terms are defined elsewhere in this Agreement as indicated
below and, whenever such terms are used in this Agreement, they shall have
their respective defined meanings.
TERM SECTION
---- -------
Agreement Introductory Paragraph
Business Combination 6.1(h)(4)
Cash Consideration 3.1(a)
Cash Election 3.1(b)
Cash Election Number 3.1(b)
Cash Election Shares 3.1(c)
Cash Fraction 3.1(c)
Certificates 3.2(c)
Closing 2.3
Confidentiality Agreement 6.1(c)(1)
Dissenting Shares 3.3
Effective Time 2.2
Election Deadline 3.2(b)
Employees 6.2(b)
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Exchange Ratio 3.1(a)
FAL Introductory Paragraph
FAL Benefit Plans 5.18(a)
FAL Commonly Controlled Entity 5.18(e)
FAL Financial Statements 5.9
FAL Meeting 6.1(j)(1)
FAL Proxy Statement 4.18
FAL SEC Documents 5.9
FAL Stockholders' Approval 5.24
Form of Election 3.2(b)
Indemnified Parties 9.1(a)
Initial Termination Date 8.1(k)
Maximum Value 3.1(a)
Merger Recitals
Merger Consideration 3.1(a)
Minimum Value 3.1(a)
NYSE 3.1(e)
Paying Agent 3.2(a)
PBGC 4.14(b)
PEI 4.2
PEI Merger Agreement 4.2
Registration Statement 4.18
Rule 145 Affiliates 6.1(k)
Rule 145 Letters 6.1(k)
Stock Consideration 3.1(a)
SUG Introductory Paragraph
SUG Benefit Plans 4.14(a)
SUG Commonly Controlled Entity 4.14(d)
SUG Financial Statements 4.9
SUG SEC Documents 4.9
Superior Proposal 6.1(h)(4)
Surviving Corporation 2.1
Third Party Beneficiary 10.11
Total Consideration 3.1(e)
ARTICLE II
THE MERGER; OTHER TRANSACTIONS
SECTION 2.1 THE MERGER. Upon the terms and subject to the conditions of this
Agreement, at the Effective Time, FAL will be merged with and into SUG in
accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware and the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts. SUG will be the surviving corporation in the Merger (the
"Surviving Corporation") and will continue its corporate existence under the
laws of the State of Delaware. The Merger will have the effect as provided in
the applicable provisions of the DGCL and the MBCL. Without limiting the
generality of the foregoing, upon the Merger, all the rights, privileges,
immunities, powers and franchises of FAL and SUG will vest in the Surviving
Corporation and all obligations, duties, debts and liabilities of FAL and SUG
will be the obligations, duties, debts and liabilities of the Surviving
Corporation.
SECTION 2.2 EFFECTIVE TIME OF THE MERGER. On the Closing Date, with respect to
the Merger, (i) a duly executed certificate of merger complying with the
requirements of the DGCL will be executed and filed with the Secretary of
State of the State of Delaware and (ii) duly executed articles of merger
complying with the requirements of the MBCL will be filed with the Secretary
of State of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The Merger will become
effective upon filing the certificate of merger with the Secretary of State of
the State of Delaware and the articles of merger with the Secretary of State
of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (the "Effective Time").
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SECTION 2.3 CLOSING. Unless this Agreement has been terminated and the
transactions contemplated herein have been abandoned pursuant to Article VIII
hereof, the closing of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (the
"Closing") will take place at 10:00 a.m., Eastern Time, on the Closing Date to
be specified by the parties, which shall be no later than the tenth business
day after satisfaction or waiver of all of the conditions set forth in Article
VII hereof (other than Sections 7.1(a), 7.1(b), 7.1(c), 7.1(f), 7.1(g),
7.1(h), 7.1(k), 7.1(l), 7.2(a), 7.2(b), 7.2(c), 7.2(e), 7.2(f) and 7.2(h),
which shall be satisfied or waived on the Closing Date) at the offices of
Hughes Hubbard & Reed LLP, New York, counsel to SUG, unless another date or
place is agreed to in writing by the parties hereto.
SECTION 2.4 CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION; BYLAWS. Pursuant to the Merger, the
Restated Certificate of Incorporation of SUG, as in effect immediately prior
to the Effective Time, shall be the Certificate of Incorporation of the
Surviving Corporation until thereafter amended as provided by law and (ii) the
bylaws of SUG as in effect immediately prior to the Effective Time, shall be
the bylaws of the Surviving Corporation until thereafter amended as provided
by law.
SECTION 2.5 DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS. The directors and officers of SUG
immediately prior to the Effective Time will be the directors and officers of
the Surviving Corporation, each to hold office in accordance with the
Certificate of Incorporation and bylaws of the Surviving Corporation.
ARTICLE III
CONVERSION OF SHARES
SECTION 3.1 EFFECT OF THE MERGER. As of the Effective Time, by virtue of the
Merger and without any action on the part of the holders of any shares of FAL
Common Stock:
(a) Each issued and outstanding share of FAL Common Stock (other than
Dissenting Shares) will be converted into the right of each holder
thereof to receive (i) that number of fully paid and nonassessable
shares of SUG Common Stock (the "Stock Consideration") equal to $23.50
divided by the Exchange Ratio rounded to the nearest hundred-thousandth
or (ii) upon a valid Cash Election as provided in Section 3.1(b),
$23.50 in cash (the "Cash Consideration"), subject to the limitations
set forth in Section 3.1(b), 3.1(c), and 3.1(e). In the case of the
consideration to be received by the holders of FAL Common Stock in the
aggregate, "Merger Consideration" shall mean the Cash Consideration
together with the Stock Consideration. In the case of the consideration
to be received by an individual holder of FAL Common Stock, "Merger
Consideration" shall mean the Cash Consideration and/or the Stock
Consideration to be received by such holder, as the case may be.
"Exchange Ratio" shall mean the Average Trading Price of SUG Common Stock as
of the Closing Date. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Exchange Ratio as
calculated pursuant to the preceding sentence and without regard to this
sentence (i) is less than the Minimum Value, then the Exchange Ratio will be
equal to the "Minimum Value," or (ii) is greater than the "Maximum Value,"
then the Exchange Ratio will be equal to the "Maximum Value." "Minimum Value"
will be $16.875 and "Maximum Value" will be $19.6875.
(b) Subject to the immediately following sentence and to Section 3.1(c) and
3.1(e), each record holder of shares of FAL Common Stock immediately
prior to the Effective Time shall be entitled to elect to receive cash
for all or any part of such shares of FAL Common Stock (a "Cash
Election"). Notwithstanding the foregoing, the aggregate number of
shares of FAL Common Stock that may be converted into the right to
receive cash consideration shall not exceed the Cash Election Number.
To the extent not covered by a properly given Cash Election, all shares
of FAL Common Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the
Effective Time shall, except as provided in Section 3.1(g), be
converted solely into shares of SUG Common Stock.
"Cash Election Number" shall equal, subject to reduction pursuant to Section
3.1(e), the amount by which (i) 50% of the number of shares of FAL Common
Stock outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time, exceeds (ii) the
sum of (a) the number of shares of FAL Common Stock to be exchanged for cash
in lieu of fractional shares pursuant to Section 3.1(g), and (b) the number of
Dissenting Shares.
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(c) If the aggregate number of shares of FAL Common Stock covered by Cash
Elections (the "Cash Election Shares") exceeds the Cash Election
Number, each Cash Election Share shall be converted into (i) the right
to receive an amount in cash, without interest, equal to the product of
(a) $23.50 and (b) a fraction (the "Cash Fraction"), the numerator of
which shall be the Cash Election Number and the denominator of which
shall be the total number of Cash Election Shares, and (ii) a number of
shares of SUG Common Stock equal to the product of (a) $23.50 divided
by the Exchange Ratio and (b) a fraction equal to one minus the Cash
Fraction.
(d) SUG will make all computations to give effect to this Section 3.1.
(e) If, after having made the calculation under Section 3.1(b), the value
of the SUG Common Stock (excluding fractional shares to be paid in cash)
to be issued in the Merger, valued at the lesser of the Average Trading
Price as of the Closing Date and the closing price of SUG Common Stock
on the last trading day before the Closing Date (or, if determined to
be more appropriate to ensure the status of the Merger as a
reorganization under Section 368(a)(1)(A) of the IRC, the trading price
as of the time of the Closing), as reported on the New York Stock
Exchange ("NYSE"), is less than 50% of the total consideration to be
paid in exchange for the shares of FAL Common Stock (including, without
limitation, the amount of cash to be paid in lieu of fractional shares
and treating any Dissenting Shares as having been exchanged for the
Cash Consideration) (the "Total Consideration"), then the Cash Election
Number shall be reduced to the extent necessary so that the value of
the SUG Common Stock to be issued in the Merger (as determined above)
is 50% of the Total Consideration.
(f) Each holder of FAL Common Stock shall surrender all such holder's
certificates formerly representing ownership of FAL Common Stock in the
manner provided in Section 3.2. All such shares of FAL Common Stock,
when so converted, shall no longer be outstanding and shall be canceled
and automatically converted into the right to receive the Merger
Consideration (and cash in lieu of fractional shares) therefor upon the
surrender of such certificate in accordance with Section 3.2. Any
payment made pursuant to this Section 3.1 shall be made net of
applicable withholding taxes to the extent such withholding is required
by law.
(g) No fractional share of SUG Common Stock shall be issued in connection
with the Merger. Each holder of shares of FAL Common Stock shall be
entitled to receive in lieu of any fractional share of SUG Common Stock
to which such holder otherwise would have been entitled pursuant to
this Section 3.1 (after taking into account all shares of FAL Common
Stock then held of record by such holder) a cash payment in an amount
equal to the product of (i) the fractional interest of a share of SUG
Common Stock to which such holder otherwise would have been entitled
and (ii) the closing price of a share of SUG Common Stock on the NYSE
on the trading day immediately prior to the Effective Time. Payment of
such amounts shall be made by SUG.
SECTION 3.2 EXCHANGE OF FAL COMMON STOCK CERTIFICATES.
(a) SUG's registrar and transfer agent, or such other bank or trust company
as may be selected by SUG and be reasonably acceptable to FAL, will act
as paying agent ("Paying Agent") for the holders of FAL Common Stock in
connection with the Merger, pursuant to an agreement providing for the
matters set forth in this Section 3.2 and such other matters as may be
appropriate and the terms of which shall be reasonably satisfactory to
SUG and FAL.
(b) (i) Not fewer than 15 business days prior to the Closing Date, SUG will
cause the Paying Agent to mail a form of election (the "Form of
Election") to holders of record of shares of FAL Common Stock (as of a
record date as close as practicable to the date of mailing). In
addition, the Paying Agent will use its reasonable efforts to make the
Form of Election available to the Persons who become stockholders of
FAL during the period between such record date and the Election
Deadline. Any election to receive Cash Consideration contemplated by
Section 3.1(b) will have been properly made only if the Paying Agent
shall have received at its designated office or offices, by 4:00 p.m.,
Eastern Time, on the third business day prior to the Closing Date (the
"Election Deadline"), a Form of Election properly completed, as set
forth in such Form of Election. An election may be revoked only by
written notice received by the Paying Agent prior to the Election
Deadline. In addition, all elections shall automatically be revoked if
the Paying Agent is notified by SUG and FAL that the Merger has been
abandoned. SUG shall have the discretion, which it may delegate in
whole or in part to the Paying Agent, to determine whether Forms of
Election have been properly completed, signed and submitted or revoked
pursuant to this Section 3.2(b), and to disregard
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immaterial defects in Forms of Election. The decision of SUG (or the
Paying Agent, as the case may be) in such matters shall be conclusive
and binding.
(c) At the Effective Time of the Merger, SUG will instruct the Paying Agent
to promptly, and in any event not later than three (3) business days
following the Effective Time, mail (and to make available for
collection by hand) to each holder of record of a certificate or
certificates, which immediately prior to the Effective Time represented
outstanding shares of FAL Common Stock (the "Certificates"), whose
shares of FAL Common Stock were converted pursuant to Section 3.1(a)
into the right to receive the Merger Consideration (and cash in lieu of
fractional shares) (i) a letter of transmittal (which shall specify
that delivery shall be effected, and risk of loss and title to the
Certificates shall pass, only upon delivery of the Certificates to the
Paying Agent and shall be in such form and have such other provisions
as SUG may reasonably specify) and (ii) instructions (which shall
provide that at the election of the surrendering holder Certificates
may be surrendered, and payment therefor collected, by hand delivery)
for use in effecting the surrender of the Certificates in exchange for
payment of the Merger Consideration (and cash in lieu of fractional
shares). Upon surrender of a Certificate for cancellation to the Paying
Agent or to such other agent or agents as may be appointed by SUG,
together with such letter of transmittal, duly executed, the holder of
such Certificate shall be entitled to receive in exchange therefor the
Merger Consideration for each share of FAL Common Stock formerly
represented by such Certificate (and cash in lieu of fractional
shares), to be mailed (or made available for collection by hand if so
elected by the surrendering holder) within three (3) business days of
receipt thereof, and the Certificate so surrendered shall forthwith be
canceled. If payment of the Merger Consideration (and cash in lieu of
fractional shares) is to be made to a Person other than the
Person in whose name the surrendered Certificate is registered, it
shall be a condition of payment that the Certificate so surrendered
shall be properly endorsed or shall be otherwise in proper form for
transfer and that the Person requesting such payment shall have paid
any transfer and other Taxes required by reason of the payment of the
Merger Consideration (and cash in lieu of fractional shares) to a
Person other than the registered holder of the Certificate surrendered
or shall have established to the satisfaction of the Surviving
Corporation that such Tax either has been paid or is not applicable.
Until surrendered as contemplated by this Section 3.2, each Certificate
(other than Certificates representing FAL Common Stock held by SUG or
Dissenting Shares) shall be deemed at any time after the Effective Time
to represent only the right to receive the Merger Consideration (and
cash in lieu of fractional shares) as contemplated by this Section 3.2.
(d) In the event any Certificate shall have been lost, stolen or destroyed,
upon the making of an affidavit of that fact by the Person claiming
such Certificate to be lost, stolen or destroyed, the Paying Agent will
issue in exchange for such lost, stolen or destroyed Certificate the
Merger Consideration (and cash in lieu of fractional shares)
deliverable in respect thereof as determined in accordance with this
Article III, PROVIDED THAT the Person to whom the Merger Consideration
(and cash in lieu of fractional shares) is paid shall, as a condition
precedent to the payment thereof, give the Paying Agent a bond in such
sum as it may ordinarily require and indemnify the Surviving
Corporation in a manner satisfactory to it against any claim that may
be made against the Surviving Corporation with respect to the
Certificate claimed to have been lost, stolen or destroyed.
(e) After the Effective Time, the stock transfer books of FAL shall be
closed and there shall be no transfers on the stock transfer books of
the Surviving Corporation of shares of FAL Common Stock that were
outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time. If, after the
Effective Time, Certificates are presented to the Surviving
Corporation, they shall be canceled and exchanged for the Merger
Consideration (and cash in lieu of fractional shares) as provided in
this Article III.
(f) The Surviving Corporation shall not be liable to any holder of FAL
Common Stock for Merger Consideration (and cash in lieu of fractional
shares) delivered to a public official pursuant to any applicable
abandonment, escheat or similar law. Any amounts remaining unclaimed by
holders of any such shares of FAL Common Stock seven years after the
Effective Time (or such earlier date immediately prior to the time at
which such amounts would otherwise escheat to or become property of any
Governmental Body) shall, to the extent permitted by applicable law,
become the property of the Surviving Corporation, free and clear of any
claims or interest of any such holders or their successors, assigns or
personal representatives previously entitled thereto.
SECTION 3.3 DISSENTING SHARES. Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement
to the contrary, the shares of any holder of FAL Common Stock who has demanded
and perfected appraisal rights for such shares in accordance with the MBCL and
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who, as of the Effective Time, has not effectively withdrawn or lost such
appraisal rights ("Dissenting Shares"), shall not be converted into or
represent a right to receive the Merger Consideration (and cash in lieu of
fractional shares) pursuant to Section 3.1, but the holder thereof shall only
be entitled to such rights as are granted by the MBCL. Notwithstanding the
foregoing, if any holder of shares of FAL Common Stock who demands appraisal
of such shares under the MBCL shall effectively withdraw the request for
appraisal or lose the right to appraisal, then, as of the later of the
Effective Time and the occurrence of such event, such holder's shares shall
automatically be converted into and represent only the right to receive the
Merger Consideration and cash in lieu of fractional shares, without interest
thereon, upon surrender of the certificate representing such shares. FAL shall
give SUG prompt notice of any demands received by FAL for appraisal of FAL
Common Stock, and, prior to the Effective Time, SUG shall have the right to
participate in all negotiations and proceedings with respect to such demands.
Prior to the Effective Time, FAL shall not, except with the prior written
consent of SUG, make any payment with respect to or offer to settle, any such
demands.
ARTICLE IV
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF SUG
SUG, as to SUG and its Subsidiaries, represents and warrants to FAL that:
SECTION 4.1 ORGANIZATION, EXISTENCE AND QUALIFICATION. SUG is a corporation
duly incorporated, validly existing, and in good standing under the laws of
the State of Delaware, with full corporate power and authority to conduct its
business as it is now being conducted, to own or use the properties and assets
that it purports to own or use, to perform its obligations under all Contracts
to which it is a party, and to execute and deliver this Agreement. SUG is duly
qualified to do business as a foreign corporation and is in good standing
under the laws of each state or other jurisdiction in which either the
ownership or use of the properties owned or used by it, or the nature of the
business conducted by it, requires such qualification as a foreign corporation
except for such failures to be so qualified or in good standing as are not,
individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a SUG Material
Adverse Effect.
SECTION 4.2 CAPITALIZATION. As of the date of this Agreement, the authorized
capital stock of SUG consists of (i) 50,000,000 shares of SUG Common Stock, of
which 31,288,321 shares were issued and 31,236,696 were outstanding on
September 30, 1999, and (ii) 1,500,000 shares of Cumulative Preferred Stock,
no par value, none of which are issued or outstanding. The issued and
outstanding shares of SUG Common Stock have been validly issued and are fully
paid and nonassessable. The shares of SUG Common Stock to be issued as the
Merger Consideration have been duly authorized and when issued and delivered
in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, will have been validly issued
and will be fully paid and nonassessable and the issuance thereof is not
subject to any preemptive or other similar right. Except as specifically
described in the SUG SEC Documents delivered to FAL prior to the date of this
Agreement, as of the date of this Agreement, no shares of SUG Common Stock are
held, in treasury or otherwise, by SUG or any of its Subsidiaries and except
as set forth in Section 4.2 of the SUG Disclosure Schedule, as of the date of
this Agreement, there are no outstanding (i) securities convertible into SUG
Common Stock or other capital stock of SUG or any of its material
Subsidiaries, (ii) warrants or options to purchase SUG Common Stock or other
securities of SUG or any of its material Subsidiaries or (iii) commitments to
issue shares of SUG Common Stock (other than pursuant to the Merger and other
than pursuant to the Agreement of Merger, dated as of June 7, 1999 (the "PEI
Merger Agreement"), by and between SUG and Pennsylvania Enterprises, Inc.
("PEI")) or other securities of SUG or any of its material Subsidiaries.
SECTION 4.3 SUBSIDIARIES; INVESTMENTS. Except as set forth in Section 4.3 of
the SUG Disclosure Schedule, as of the date of this Agreement, SUG has no
Subsidiaries or investments in any Person except for marketable securities
reflected in the SUG SEC Documents delivered to FAL prior to the date of this
Agreement, and SUG is the registered owner and holder of all of the issued and
outstanding shares of capital stock of its Subsidiaries and has good title to
such shares. The outstanding capital stock of each material Subsidiary of SUG
has been validly issued and is fully paid and nonassessable.
SECTION 4.4 AUTHORITY RELATIVE TO THIS AGREEMENT AND BINDING EFFECT. The
execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the Related
Documents by SUG have been duly authorized by all requisite corporate action.
The execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the Related
Documents by SUG will not result in a violation or breach of any term or
provision of, constitute a default, or require a consent, approval or
notification, or accelerate the performance required under, the Organizational
Documents of SUG, any indenture, mortgage, deed of trust, security agreement,
loan
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agreement, or other Contract to which SUG is a party or by which its assets
are bound, or violate any Order, with such exceptions as are not, individually
or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a SUG Material Adverse Effect.
This Agreement constitutes and the Related Documents to be executed by SUG
when executed and delivered will constitute valid and binding obligations of
SUG, enforceable against SUG in accordance with their terms, except as
enforceability may be limited by (i) bankruptcy or similar laws from time to
time in effect affecting the enforcement of creditors' rights generally or
(ii) the availability of equitable remedies generally.
SECTION 4.5 GOVERNMENTAL APPROVALS. Except as set forth in Section 4.5 of the
SUG Disclosure Schedule and as required by the HSR Act, no approval or
authorization of any Governmental Body with respect to performance under this
Agreement or the Related Documents by SUG is required to be obtained by SUG in
connection with the execution and delivery by SUG of this Agreement or the
Related Documents or the consummation by SUG of the transactions contemplated
hereby or thereby, the failure to obtain which are, individually or in the
aggregate, reasonably likely to have a SUG Material Adverse Effect.
SECTION 4.6 PUBLIC UTILITY HOLDING COMPANY STATUS; REGULATION AS A PUBLIC
UTILITY. SUG is a "gas utility company" (as such term is defined in PUHCA).
SUG indirectly owns a minority interest in a "foreign utility company" (as
such term is defined in PUHCA) that is exempt from, and is deemed not to be a
public utility company for purposes of, PUHCA pursuant to Section 33 thereof
with respect to which SUG has filed with the SEC a Form U-57 notification of
foreign utility company status. Except as stated above in this Section 4.6,
neither SUG nor any of its Subsidiaries is a "holding company," a "subsidiary
company," a "public utility company" or an "affiliate" of a "public utility
company," or a "holding company" within the meaning of such terms in PUHCA.
SECTION 4.7 COMPLIANCE WITH LEGAL REQUIREMENTS; GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORIZATIONS.
(a) Except as set forth in Section 4.7 of the SUG Disclosure Schedule or
specifically described in the SUG SEC Documents delivered to FAL prior
to the date of this Agreement, and subject to Section 4.15 of this
Agreement, to the Knowledge of SUG, SUG is not in violation of any
Legal Requirement that is applicable to it, to the conduct or operation
of its business, or to the ownership or use of any of its assets, other
than such violations, if any, which are not, individually or in the
aggregate, reasonably likely to have a SUG Material Adverse Effect.
(b) The SUG SEC Documents delivered to FAL prior to the date of this
Agreement accurately describe all material regulation of SUG that
relates to the utility business of SUG as of the date of this
Agreement. Except as set forth in Section 4.7 of the SUG Disclosure
Schedule, SUG has, and is in material compliance with, all material
Governmental Authorizations necessary to conduct its business and to
own, operate and use all of its assets as currently conducted.
SECTION 4.8 LEGAL PROCEEDINGS; ORDERS. Except as set forth in Section 4.8 of the
SUG Disclosure Schedule or as specifically described in the SUG SEC Documents
delivered to FAL prior to the date of this Agreement, there is no pending
Proceeding:
(1) that has been commenced by or against, or that otherwise relates to,
SUG or, if the merger with PEI is consummated, PEI, that is reasonably
likely to have a SUG Material Adverse Effect; or
(2) as of the date of this Agreement, that challenges, or that may have the
effect of preventing, delaying, making illegal, or otherwise
interfering with, the Merger or any of the transactions contemplated
hereby.
To the Knowledge of SUG, no such Proceedings, audits or investigations have
been Threatened that are, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely
to have a SUG Material Adverse Effect. As of the date of this Agreement, SUG
is not subject to any Orders that are, individually or in the aggregate,
reasonably likely to have a SUG Material Adverse Effect.
SECTION 4.9 SEC DOCUMENTS. SUG has made (and, with respect to such documents
filed after the date hereof through the Closing Date, will make) available to
FAL a true and complete copy of each report, schedule, registration statement
(other than on Form S-8), and definitive proxy statement filed by SUG with the
SEC since September 16, 1999 and through the Closing Date in substantially the
form filed with the SEC (the "SUG SEC Documents"). As of their respective
dates, the SUG SEC Documents, including without limitation any financial
statements or schedules included therein, complied (or will
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comply), in all material respects with the requirements of the Securities Act
or the Exchange Act, as the case may be, and the rules and regulations of the
SEC thereunder applicable to such SUG SEC Documents, and did not (or will not)
contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material
fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements
therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not
misleading. The audited consolidated financial statements and unaudited
interim financial statements of SUG included in the SUG SEC Documents
(collectively, the "SUG Financial Statements") were (or will be) prepared in
accordance with GAAP applied on a consistent basis (except as may be indicated
therein or in the notes thereto and except with respect to unaudited
statements as permitted by Form 10-Q) and fairly present (or will fairly
present) in all material respects the financial position of SUG as of the
respective dates thereof or the results of operations and cash flows for the
respective periods then ended, as the case may be, subject, in the case of
unaudited interim financial statements, to normal, recurring adjustments which
are not material in the aggregate.
SECTION 4.10 TAXES. Except as set forth in Section 4.10 of the SUG
Disclosure Schedule:
(a) SUG and its Subsidiaries have timely filed all United States federal,
state and local income Tax Returns required to be filed by or with
respect to them or requests for extensions to file such Tax Returns
have been timely filed, granted and have not expired, and SUG and its
Subsidiaries have timely paid and discharged all Taxes due in
connection with or with respect to the periods or transactions covered
by such Tax Returns and have paid all other Taxes as are due or made
adequate provision therefor in accordance with GAAP except where the
failures to so file, pay or discharge are not, individually or in the
aggregate, reasonably likely to have a SUG Material Adverse Effect. As
of the date of this Agreement, there are no pending audits or other
examinations relating to any Tax matters. There are no Tax liens on any
assets of SUG or its Subsidiaries. As of the date of this Agreement,
SUG and its Subsidiaries have not granted any waiver of any statute of
limitations with respect to, or any extension of a period for the
assessment of, any Tax. The accruals and reserves (including deferred
taxes) reflected in the SUG Balance Sheet are in all material respects
adequate to cover all material Taxes accruable through the date thereof
(including interest and penalties, if any, thereon and Taxes being
contested) in accordance with GAAP.
(b) Neither SUG nor any of its Subsidiaries is obligated under any Contract
with respect to industrial development bonds or other obligations with
respect to which the excludability from gross income of the holder for
federal or state income tax purposes could be affected by the Merger or
any of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
(c) SUG has no present plan or intention after the Merger to (i) sell or
otherwise dispose of any of the assets of the Surviving Corporation,
including the assets of FAL acquired pursuant to the Merger, except for
dispositions made in the ordinary course of business or to a
corporation controlled by the Surviving Corporation within the meaning
of Section 368(a)(2)(C) of the IRC, or (ii) reacquire any of the SUG
Common Stock included in the Merger Consideration, other than
repurchases in the open market pursuant to stock repurchase plans
undertaken for reasons unrelated to the transactions contemplated by
this Agreement.
SECTION 4.11 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY. SUG has no Knowledge of (i) any
infringement or claimed infringement by it of any patent rights or copyrights
of others or (ii) any infringement of the patent or patent license rights,
trademarks or copyrights owned by or under license to it, except for any such
infringements of the type described in clause (i) or (ii) that are not,
individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a SUG Material
Adverse Effect.
SECTION 4.12 CONTRACTS. Except as described in Section 4.12 of the SUG
Disclosure Schedule or as specifically described in the SUG SEC Documents
delivered to FAL prior to the date of this Agreement, and with such exceptions
as are not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a SUG
Material Adverse Effect, all of SUG's Contracts are in full force and effect
and neither SUG nor, to the Knowledge of SUG, any other party thereto is in
default thereunder nor has any event occurred or is any event occurring that,
with notice or the passage of time or otherwise, is reasonably likely to give
rise to an event of default thereunder by any party thereto.
SECTION 4.13 INDEBTEDNESS. All outstanding principal amounts of indebtedness
for borrowed money of SUG as of October 1, 1999 are set forth in Section 4.13
of the SUG Disclosure Schedule.
SECTION 4.14 EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS.
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(a) Except as set forth in Section 4.14 of the SUG Disclosure Schedule,
each of the SUG Benefit Plans has been operated and administered in all
material respects in accordance with its governing documents and
applicable federal and state laws (including, but not limited to, ERISA
and the IRC). For purposes of this Agreement, "SUG Benefit Plans" shall
mean all employee retirement, welfare, stock option, stock ownership,
deferred compensation, bonus or other benefit plans, agreements,
practices, policies, programs, or arrangements that are applicable to
any employee, director or consultant of SUG or its Subsidiaries or
maintained by or contributed to by SUG or its Subsidiaries.
(b) Except as set forth in Section 4.14 of the SUG Disclosure Schedule, as
to any SUG Benefit Plan subject to Title IV of ERISA, there is no event
or condition which presents the material risk of plan termination, no
accumulated funding deficiency, whether or not waived, within the
meaning of Section 302 of ERISA or Section 412 of the IRC has been
incurred for which any liability is outstanding, no reportable event
within the meaning of Section 4043 of ERISA (for which the notice
requirements of Regulation Section 4043 promulgated by the Pension
Benefit Guaranty Corporation ("PBGC") have not been waived) has
occurred within the last six years, no notice of intent to terminate
the SUG Benefit Plan has been given under Section 4041 of ERISA, no
proceeding has been instituted under Section 4042 of ERISA to terminate
the SUG Benefit Plan, there has been no termination or partial
termination of the SUG Benefit Plan within the meaning of Section
411(d)(3) of the IRC within the last six years, except with respect to
the conversion of the retirement income plan to a cash balance plan for
which full vesting was granted with respect to affected employees, no
event described in Sections 4062 or 4063 of ERISA has occurred, all
PBGC premiums have been timely paid and no liability to the PBGC has
been incurred, except for PBGC premiums not yet due.
(c) Except as set forth in Section 4.14 of the SUG Disclosure Schedule,
each trust funding a SUG Benefit Plan, which trust is intended to be
exempt from federal income taxation pursuant to Section 501(c)(9) of
the IRC, satisfies the requirements of such section and has, whenever
required by law, received a favorable determination letter from the IRS
regarding such exempt status, and to the Knowledge of SUG has not,
since receipt of the most recent favorable determination letter, been
amended or operated in any way which would adversely affect such exempt
status.
(d) Except as set forth in Section 4.14 of the SUG Disclosure Schedule,
with respect to any SUG Benefit Plan or any other "employee benefit
plan" as defined in Section 3(3) of ERISA which is established,
sponsored, maintained or contributed to, or has been established,
sponsored, maintained or contributed to or, to the Knowledge of SUG,
with respect to any such plan which has been established, sponsored,
maintained or contributed to within six years prior to the Closing
Date, by SUG or its Subsidiaries or any corporation, trade, business or
entity under common control or being a part of an affiliated service
group with SUG, within the meaning of Section 414(b), (c) or (m) of the
IRC or Section 4001 of ERISA ("SUG Commonly Controlled Entity"), (i) no
withdrawal liability, within the meaning of Section 4201 of ERISA, has
been incurred, which withdrawal liability has not been satisfied and no
such with drawal liability is reasonably expected to be incurred, (ii)
no liability under Title IV of ERISA (including, but not limited to,
liability to the PBGC) has been incurred by SUG or any SUG Commonly
Controlled Entity, which liability has not been satisfied (other than
for PBGC premiums not yet due), (iii) no accumulated funding
deficiency, whether or not waived, within the meaning of Section 302 of
ERISA or Section 412 of the IRC has been incurred for which any
liability is outstanding, (iv) there has been no failure to make any
contribution (including installments) to such plan required by Section
302 of ERISA and Section 412 of the IRC which has resulted in a lien
under Section 302 of ERISA or Section 412 of the IRC and for which any
liability is currently outstanding, (v) to the Knowledge of SUG, no
action, omission or transaction has occurred with respect to any such
plan or any other SUG Benefit Plan which could subject SUG or the plan
or trust forming a part thereof to a material civil liability or
penalty under ERISA or other applicable laws, or a material Tax under
the IRC, (vi) any such plan which is a Group Health Plan has complied
in all material respects with the provisions of Sections 601-608 of
ERISA and Section 4980B of the IRC, (vii) there are no pending or, to
the Knowledge of SUG, Threatened claims by or on behalf of any such
plan or any other SUG Benefit Plan, by any employees, former employees
or plan beneficiaries covered by such plan or otherwise by or on behalf
of any person involving any such plan (other than routine non-contested
claims for benefits) which could result in a material liability to SUG
and its Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, and (viii) neither SUG nor any
SUG Commonly Controlled Entity has engaged in, or is a successor or
parent corporation to any entity or person that has engaged in, a
transaction described in Section 4069 of ERISA.
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(e) The execution and delivery of this Agreement and the consummation of
the transactions contemplated hereby will not (i) increase the amount
of benefits otherwise payable under any SUG Benefit Plan, (ii) result
in the acceleration of the time of eligibility to participate in any
SUG Benefit Plan, or of any payment, exercisability, funding or vesting
of any benefit under any SUG Benefit Plan, (iii) result in payment
becoming due or with respect to any current or former employee,
director or consultant, or (iv) result in any payment becoming due in
the event of a termination of employment or service of any employee,
director or consultant.
(f) SUG is not a party to any Contract nor has it established any policy or
practice, which would require SUG to make a payment or provide any
other form of compensation or benefit to any Person performing (or who
within the past twelve months performed) services for SUG during or
upon termination of such services which would not be payable or
provided in the absence of the consummation of the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement.
(g) Except as would affect unionized employees and/or retirees who are
covered by bargaining agreements, if any, and as otherwise set forth in
Section 4.14 of the SUG Disclosure Schedule, each SUG Benefit Plan
which is an "employee welfare benefit plan," as such term is defined in
Section 3(1) of ERISA, may be unilaterally amended or terminated in its
entirety without any liability being incurred by SUG or any Affiliate
of SUG, except as to benefits accrued thereunder prior to such
amendment or termination.
(h) As of the date of this Agreement, SUG has not contributed nor been
obligated to contribute to any "multi-employer plan" within the meaning
of Section 3(37) of ERISA within the last six years and has no
outstanding liability with respect to any such plan.
SECTION 4.15 ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS. Except as set forth in Section 4.15 of the
SUG Disclosure Schedule or as specifically described in the SUG SEC Documents
delivered to FAL prior to the date of this Agreement, and with such other
exceptions as are not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to
have a SUG Material Adverse Effect:
(a) To the Knowledge of SUG, SUG and any Person for whose conduct SUG is
reasonably likely to be held responsible, is currently and at all times
has been, in material compliance with any Environmental Law. SUG has
not received any Order, notice, or other communication from (i) any
Governmental Body or private citizen acting in the public interest, or
(ii) the current or prior owner or operator of any Facilities, of any
violation or failure to comply with any Environmental Law, or of any
obligation to undertake or bear the cost of any environmental cleanup,
or with respect to any property or Facility at which Hazardous
Materials generated by SUG or any other Person for whose conduct SUG
may be held responsible were transported for disposal; and
(b) There are no pending or, to the Knowledge of SUG, Threatened claims or
Encumbrances arising under or pursuant to any Environmental Law with
respect to or affecting any of the Facilities or any other properties
and assets (whether real, personal, or mixed) in which SUG has or had a
direct or indirect interest (including by ownership or use).
SECTION 4.16 NO MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE. Except as described in the SUG SEC
Documents that have been provided to FAL prior to the date of this Agreement,
since the date of the SUG Balance Sheet, there has not been any SUG Material
Adverse Effect, and no events have occurred or circumstances exist that are,
individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a SUG Material
Adverse Effect, except that any SUG Material Adverse Effect that results from
or relates to (a) general business or economic conditions, (b) conditions
generally affecting the industries in which SUG competes or (c) the
announcement of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement shall be
disregarded.
SECTION 4.17 BROKERS. SUG is not a party to, or in any way obligated under any
Contract, and there are no outstanding claims against SUG, for the payment of
any broker's or finder's fees in connection with the origin, negotiation,
execution or performance of this Agreement.
SECTION 4.18 PROXY STATEMENT; REGISTRATION STATEMENT. None of the information
supplied or to be supplied to FAL by or on behalf of SUG for inclusion in the
proxy statement, in definitive form, relating to the FAL Meeting to be held in
connection with the Merger (the "FAL Proxy Statement"), or supplied by or on
behalf of SUG in the Registration Statement on Form S-4 (and any amendments
thereto) to be filed by SUG with the SEC pursuant to the Securities Act to
register the shares of SUG Common Stock constituting the Stock Consideration
(the "Registration Statement") will, in the case of the
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Registration Statement, at the effective time of the Registration Statement,
at any time the Registration Statement is amended or supplemented, at the date
the FAL Proxy Statement is first mailed to FAL's stockholders, at any time the
FAL Proxy Statement is amended or supplemented, at the time of the FAL Meeting
and at the Effective Time, and in the case of the FAL Proxy Statement, at the
date the FAL Proxy Statement is first mailed to FAL's stockholders, at any
time the FAL Proxy Statement is amended or supplemented and at the time of the
FAL Meeting (giving effect to any documents incorporated by reference
therein), contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any
material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the
statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which they are made,
not misleading. The Registration Statement will comply as to form and in
substance in all material respects with the applicable provisions of the
Securities Act and the rules and regulations thereunder.
SECTION 4.19 NO VOTE REQUIRED. No vote of the holders of any class or series
of the capital stock of SUG is required to approve this Agreement and the
Merger.
SECTION 4.20 DISCLAIMER OF REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. EXCEPT FOR THE
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES CONTAINED IN THIS ARTICLE IV, SUG MAKES NO
OTHER REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AND SUG HEREBY
DISCLAIMS ANY SUCH OTHER REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES, WHETHER BY SUG, ANY
SUBSIDIARY OF SUG, OR ANY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES,
AGENTS OR REPRESENTATIVES, OR ANY OTHER PERSON, WITH RESPECT TO THIS AGREEMENT
AND THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY, NOTWITHSTANDING THE DELIVERY OR
DISCLOSURE TO FAL OR ANY OF ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, AGENTS OR
REPRESENTATIVES, OR ANY OTHER PERSON, OF ANY DOCUMENTATION OR OTHER
INFORMATION BY SUG, ANY SUBSIDIARY OF SUG, OR ANY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE
DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, AGENTS OR REPRESENTATIVES, OR ANY OTHER
PERSON, WITH RESPECT TO ANY OF THE FOREGOING.
ARTICLE V
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF FAL.
FAL, as to the Acquired Companies, represents and warrants to SUG as follows:
SECTION 5.1 ORGANIZATION, EXISTENCE AND QUALIFICATION.
(a) Each Acquired Company is a corporation duly incorporated, validly
existing, and in good standing under the laws of its state of
incorporation or organization, with full corporate power and authority
to conduct its business as it is now being conducted, to own or use the
properties and assets that it purports to own or use, and to perform
all its obligations under all Applicable Contracts. Section 5.1(a) of
the FAL Disclosure Schedule sets forth the name of each Acquired
Company, the state or jurisdiction of its incorporation or
organization, and each state or jurisdiction where such Acquired
Company is duly qualified as a foreign corporation. Each Acquired
Company is duly qualified to do business as a foreign corporation and
is in good standing under the laws of each state or other jurisdiction
in which either the ownership or use of the properties owned or used by
it, or the nature of the business conducted by it, requires such
qualification as a foreign corporation except for such failures to be
so qualified or in good standing as are not, individually or in the
aggregate, reasonably likely to have a FAL Material Adverse Effect.
(b) FAL has delivered to SUG copies of the Organizational Documents, as
currently in effect, of each Acquired Company.
SECTION 5.2 CAPITALIZATION. The capital stock of FAL consists of 2,951,334
shares of FAL Common Stock, of which 2,220,086 shares are issued and
outstanding. The issued and outstanding shares of FAL Common Stock have been
validly issued and are fully paid and nonassessable. Except as specifically
described in the FAL SEC Documents delivered to SUG prior to the date of this
Agreement, no shares of FAL Common Stock are held, in treasury or otherwise,
by FAL or any of its Subsidiaries and there are no outstanding (i) securities
convertible into FAL Common Stock or other capital stock of FAL or any of its
Subsidiaries, (ii) warrants or options to purchase FAL Common Stock or other
securities of FAL or any of its Subsidiaries or (iii) other commitments to
issue shares of FAL Common Stock or other securities of FAL or any of its
Subsidiaries.
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SECTION 5.3 SUBSIDIARIES; INVESTMENTS. Except as set forth in Section 5.3 of
the FAL Disclosure Schedule, FAL has no Subsidiaries or investments in any
Person (except for marketable securities disclosed to SUG prior to the date of
this Agreement) and FAL is the registered owner and holder of all of the
issued and outstanding shares of capital stock of its Subsidiaries and has
good title to such shares. The outstanding capital stock of each Subsidiary
has been validly issued and is fully paid and nonassessable. All such capital
stock owned by any Acquired Company is free and clear of any Encumbrance
(except for any Encumbrance disclosed in the FAL SEC Documents delivered to
SUG prior to the date of this Agreement, or created or incurred by this
Agreement in favor of SUG, or imposed by federal or state securities laws).
SECTION 5.4 AUTHORITY RELATIVE TO THIS AGREEMENT AND BINDING EFFECT. The
execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the Related
Documents by FAL have been duly authorized by all requisite corporate action,
except, as of the date of this Agreement, for the FAL Stockholders' Approval.
Except as set forth in Section 5.4 of the FAL Disclosure Schedule, the
execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the Related
Documents by FAL will not result in a violation or breach of any term or
provision of, or constitute a default, require a consent, approval or
notification, or accelerate the performance required under, the Organizational
Documents of any of the Acquired Companies, any indenture, mortgage, deed of
trust, security agreement, loan agreement, or other Applicable Contract to
which any of the Acquired Companies is a party or by which its assets are
bound, or violate any Order, with such exceptions as are not, individually or
in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a FAL Material Adverse Effect.
This Agreement constitutes and the Related Documents to be executed by any of
the Acquired Companies when executed and delivered will constitute valid and
binding obligations of such Acquired Company, enforceable against such
Acquired Company in accordance with their terms, except as enforceability may
be limited by (i) bankruptcy or similar laws from time to time in effect
affecting the enforcement of creditors' rights generally or (ii) the
availability of equitable remedies generally.
SECTION 5.5 GOVERNMENTAL APPROVALS. Except as set forth in Section 5.5 of the
FAL Disclosure Schedule and as required by the HSR Act, no approval or
authorization of any Governmental Body with respect to performance under this
Agreement or the Related Documents by any Acquired Company is required to be
obtained by FAL in connection with the execution and delivery by FAL of this
Agreement or the Related Documents or the consummation by the Acquired
Companies of the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby, the failure to
obtain which are, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have
a FAL Material Adverse Effect.
SECTION 5.6 PUBLIC UTILITY HOLDING COMPANY STATUS; REGULATION AS A PUBLIC
UTILITY. None of the Acquired Companies is a "holding company," a "subsidiary
company," a "public utility company," or an "affiliate" of a "public utility
company" or a "holding company" within the meaning of such terms in PUHCA.
SECTION 5.7 COMPLIANCE WITH LEGAL REQUIREMENTS; GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORIZATIONS.
(a) Except as set forth in Section 5.7(a) of the FAL Disclosure Schedule or
as specifically described in the FAL SEC Documents delivered to SUG
prior to the date of this Agreement, and subject to Section 5.19 of
this Agreement, to the Knowledge of any Acquired Company, no Acquired
Company is in violation of any Legal Requirement that is applicable to
it, to the conduct or operation of its business, or to the ownership or
use of any of its assets, other than such violations, if any, which are
not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a FAL
Material Adverse Effect.
(b) The FAL SEC Documents delivered to SUG prior to the date of this
Agreement accurately describe all material regulation of each Acquired
Company that relates to the utility business of any Acquired Company.
Except as set forth on Section 5.7(a) of the FAL Disclosure Schedule,
each Acquired Company has, and is in material compliance with, all
material Governmental Authorizations necessary to conduct its business
and to own, operate and use all of its assets as currently conducted.
SECTION 5.8 LEGAL PROCEEDINGS; ORDERS. Except as set forth in Section 5.8 of
the FAL Disclosure Schedule or as specifically described in the FAL SEC
Documents delivered to SUG prior to the date of this Agreement, there is no
pending Proceeding:
(1) that has been commenced by or against, or that otherwise relates to,
any Acquired Company that is reasonably likely to have a FAL Material
Adverse Effect; or
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(2) as of the date of this Agreement, that challenges, or that may have the
effect of preventing, delaying, making illegal, or otherwise
interfering with, the Merger or any of the transactions contemplated
hereby.
To the Knowledge of FAL, except as set forth in Section 5.8 of the FAL
Disclosure Schedule, as of the date of this Agreement, no such Proceedings,
audits or investigations have been Threatened that are, individually or in the
aggregate, reasonably likely to have a FAL Material Adverse Effect. As of the
date of this Agreement, none of the Acquired Companies is subject to any
Orders that are, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a
FAL Material Adverse Effect.
SECTION 5.9 SEC DOCUMENTS. FAL has made (and, with respect to such documents
filed after the date hereof through the Closing Date, will make) available to
SUG a true and complete copy of each report, schedule, registration statement
(other than on Form S-8), and definitive proxy statement filed by FAL with the
SEC since September 30, 1998 through the Closing Date in substantially the
form filed with the SEC (the "FAL SEC Documents"). As of their respective
dates, the FAL SEC Documents, including without limitation any financial
statements or schedules included therein, complied (or will comply), in all
material respects with the requirements of the Securities Act or the Exchange
Act, as the case may be, and the rules and regulations of the SEC thereunder
applicable to such FAL SEC Documents, and did not (or will not) contain any
untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required
to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein, in light of
the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading. The audited
consolidated financial statements and unaudited interim financial statements
of FAL included in the FAL SEC Documents (collectively, the "FAL Financial
Statements") were (or will be) prepared in accordance with GAAP (except as may
be indicated therein or in the notes thereto and except with respect to
unaudited statements as permitted by Form 10-Q) and fairly present (or will
fairly present) in all material respects the financial position of FAL and its
Subsidiaries, as of the respective dates thereof or the results of operations
and cash flows for the respective periods then ended, as the case may be,
subject, in the case of unaudited interim financial statements, to normal,
recurring adjustments which are not material in the aggregate.
SECTION 5.10 TAXES. Except as set forth in Section 5.10 of the FAL
Disclosure Schedule:
(a) The Acquired Companies have timely filed all United States federal,
state and local income Tax Returns required to be filed by or with
respect to them or requests for extensions to file such Tax Returns
have been timely filed, granted and have not expired, and the Acquired
Companies have timely paid and discharged all Taxes due in connection
with or with respect to the periods or transactions covered by such Tax
Returns and have paid all other Taxes as are due or made adequate
provision therefor in accordance with GAAP except where failures to so
file, pay or discharge are not, individually or in the aggregate,
reasonably likely to have a FAL Material Adverse Effect. There are no
pending audits or other examinations relating to any Tax matters. There
are no Tax liens on any assets of the Acquired Companies. As of the
date of this Agreement, none of the Acquired Companies has granted any
waiver of any statute of limitations with respect to, or any extension
of a period for the assessment of, any Tax. The accruals and reserves
(including deferred taxes) reflected in the FAL Balance Sheet are in
all material respects adequate to cover all material Taxes accruable
through the date thereof (including interest and penalties, if any,
thereon and Taxes being contested) in accordance with GAAP.
(b) None of the Acquired Companies is obligated under any Applicable
Contract with respect to industrial development bonds or other
obligations with respect to which the excludability from gross income
of the holder for federal or state income tax purposes could be
affected by the Merger or any of the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement.
SECTION 5.11 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY. No Acquired Company has any Knowledge of
(i) any infringement or claimed infringement by any Acquired Company of any
patent rights or copyrights of others or (ii) any infringement of the patent
or patent license rights, trademarks or copyrights owned by or under license
to any Acquired Company, except for any such infringements of the type
described in clause (i) or (ii) that are not, individually or in the
aggregate, reasonably likely to have a FAL Material Adverse Effect.
SECTION 5.12 TITLE TO ASSETS. Except (i) as set forth in Section 5.12 of the
FAL Disclosure Schedule, (ii) as specifically described in the FAL SEC
Documents delivered to SUG prior to the date of this Agreement, (iii) as set
forth in Section 5.19 of this Agreement or (iv) as set forth in Section 5.19
of the FAL Disclosure Schedule, none of the Acquired Companies' assets are
subject to any Encumbrance other than FAL Permitted Liens.
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SECTION 5.13 INDEBTEDNESS. All outstanding principal amounts of indebtedness
for borrowed money of the Acquired Companies as of October 4, 1999 are set
forth in Section 5.13 of the FAL Disclosure Schedule.
SECTION 5.14 MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT. Except for normal wear and tear, and
with such exceptions as are not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably
likely to have a FAL Material Adverse Effect, the machinery and equipment of
the Acquired Companies necessary for the conduct by the Acquired Companies of
their respective businesses as presently conducted are in good operating
condition and in a state of reasonable maintenance and repair.
SECTION 5.15 APPLICABLE CONTRACTS. Set forth in Section 5.15(a) of the FAL
Disclosure Schedule is a list as the date hereof of all Applicable Contracts
to which any Acquired Company is a party involving a total commitment by or to
any party thereto of more than $65,000 on an annual basis or more than
$250,000 on its remaining term which cannot be terminated on no more than
sixty (60) days' notice without penalty or additional cost to the Acquired
Company as the terminating party. Except as specifically described in the FAL
SEC Documents delivered to SUG prior to the date of this Agreement, and with
such exceptions as are not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably
likely to have a FAL Material Adverse Effect, all Applicable Contracts of the
Acquired Companies are in full force and effect and no Acquired Company nor,
to the Knowledge of FAL, any other party thereto is in default thereunder nor
has any event occurred or is any event occurring that with notice or the
passage of time or otherwise, is reasonably likely to give rise to an event of
default thereunder by any party thereto.
SECTION 5.16 INSURANCE. Section 5.16(a) of the FAL Disclosure Schedule sets
forth a list of all policies of insurance held by the Acquired Companies as of
the date of this Agreement. Since June 30, 1994, the assets and the business
of the Acquired Companies have been continuously insured with what FAL
believes are reputable insurers against all risks and in such amounts normally
insured against by companies of the same type and in the same line of business
as any of the Acquired Companies. As of the date of this Agreement, no notice
of cancellation, non-renewal or material increase in premiums has been
received by any of the Acquired Companies with respect to such policies, and
no Acquired Company has Knowledge of any fact or circumstance that could
reasonably be expected to form the basis for any cancellation, non-renewal or
material increase in premiums, except for such cancellations, non-renewals and
increases which are not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely
to have a FAL Material Adverse Effect. None of the Acquired Companies is in
default with respect to any provision contained in any such policy or binder
nor has there been any failure to give notice or to present any claim relating
to the business or the assets of the Acquired Companies under any such policy
or binder in a timely fashion or in the manner or detail required by the
policy or binder, except for such defaults or failures which are not,
individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a FAL Material
Adverse Effect. As of the date of this Agreement, there are no outstanding
unpaid premiums (except premiums not yet due and payable), and no notice of
cancellation or renewal with respect to, or disallowance of any claim under,
any such policy or binder has been received by the Acquired Companies as of
the date hereof, except for such non-payments of premiums, cancellations,
renewals or disallowances which are not, individually or in the aggregate,
reasonably likely to have a FAL Material Adverse Effect.
SECTION 5.17 EMPLOYEES. Section 5.17(a) of the FAL Disclosure Schedule sets
forth a list as of no more than thirty (30) days prior to the date of this
Agreement of all the present officers and employees of the Acquired Companies,
indicating each employee's base salary or wage rate and identifying those who
are union employees and those who are part-time employees. Except as set forth
in Section 5.17(b) of the FAL Disclosure Schedule, as of the date of this
Agreement, no labor union or other collective bargaining unit has been
certified or recognized by any of the Acquired Companies, and, to the
Knowledge of the Acquired Companies, as of the date of this Agreement, there
are no elections, organizing drives or material controversies pending or
Threatened between any of the Acquired Companies and any labor union or other
collective bargaining unit representing any of the Acquired Companies'
employees. There is no pending or, to the Knowledge of FAL, Threatened labor
practice complaint, arbitration, labor strike or other material labor dispute
(excluding grievances) involving any of the Acquired Companies which are,
individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a FAL Material
Adverse Effect. Except for collective bargaining agreements or as set forth in
Section 5.17(c) of the FAL Disclosure Schedule, none of the Acquired Companies
is a party to any employment agreement with any employee pertaining to any of
the Acquired Companies.
SECTION 5.18 EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS.
(a) Each of the FAL Benefit Plans has been operated and administered in all
material respects in accordance with its governing documents and
applicable federal and state laws (including, but not limited to, ERISA
and the IRC). For
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purposes of this Agreement, "FAL Benefit Plans" shall mean all employee
retirement, welfare, stock option, stock ownership, deferred
compensation, bonus or other benefit plans, agreements, practices,
policies, programs, or arrangements, that are applicable to any
employee, any employee, director or consultant of the Acquired
Companies or maintained by or contributed to by any of the Acquired
Companies.
(b) As to any FAL Benefit Plan subject to Title IV of ERISA, there is no
event or condition which presents the material risk of plan
termination, no accumulated funding deficiency, whether or not waived,
within the meaning of Section 302 of ERISA or Section 412 of the IRC
has been incurred for which any liability is outstanding, no reportable
event within the meaning of Section 4043 of ERISA (for which the notice
requirements of Regulation Section 4043 promulgated by the PBGC have
not been waived) has occurred within the last six years, no notice of
intent to terminate the FAL Benefit Plan has been given under Section
4041 of ERISA, no proceeding has been instituted under Section 4042 of
ERISA to terminate the FAL Benefit Plan, there has been no termination
or partial termination of the FAL Benefit Plan within the meaning of
Section 411(d)(3) of the IRC within the last six years, no event
described in Sections 4062 or 4063 of ERISA has occurred, all PBGC
premiums have been timely paid and no liability to the PBGC has been
incurred, except for PBGC premiums not yet due.
(c) There is no matter pending (other than qualification determination
applications and filings and other required periodic filings) with
respect to any of the FAL Benefit Plans before the IRS, the Department
of Labor, the PBGC or in or before any other governmental authority.
(d) Each trust funding a FAL Benefit Plan, which trust is intended to be
exempt from federal income taxation pursuant to Section 501(c)(9) of
the IRC, satisfies the requirements of such section and has received a
favorable determination letter from the IRS regarding such exempt
status and to the Knowledge of any Acquired Company has not, since
receipt of the most recent favorable determination letter, been amended
or operated in any way which would adversely affect such exempt status.
(e) With respect to any FAL Benefit Plan or any other "employee benefit
plan" as defined in Section 3(3) of ERISA which is established,
sponsored, maintained or contributed to, or to the Knowledge of the
Acquired Companies, with respect to any such plan which has been
established, sponsored, maintained or contributed to within six years
prior to the Closing Date, by the Acquired Companies or any
corporation, trade, business or entity under common control or being a
part of an affiliated service group with any of the Acquired Companies,
within the meaning of Section 414(b), (c) or (m) of the IRC or Section
4001 of ERISA ("FAL Commonly Controlled Entity"), (i) no withdrawal
liability, within the meaning of Section 4201 of ERISA, has been
incurred, which withdrawal liability has not been satisfied and no such
withdrawal liability is reasonably expected to be incurred, (ii) no
liability under Title IV of ERISA (including, but not limited to,
liability to the PBGC) has been incurred by the Acquired Companies or
any FAL Commonly Controlled Entity, which liability has not been
satisfied (other than for PBGC premiums not yet due), (iii) no
accumulated funding deficiency, whether or not waived, within the
meaning of Section 302 of ERISA or Section 412 of the IRC has been
incurred for which any liability is outstanding, (iv) there has been no
failure to make any contribution (including installments) to such plan
required by Section 302 of ERISA and Section 412 of the IRC which has
resulted in a lien under Section 302 of ERISA or Section 412 of the IRC
and for which any liability is currently outstanding, (v) to the
Knowledge of any Acquired Company, no action, omission or transaction
has occurred with respect to any such plan or any other FAL Benefit
Plan which could subject any of the Acquired Companies, the plan or
trust forming a part thereof, or SUG to a material civil liability or
penalty under ERISA or other applicable laws, or a material Tax under
the IRC, (vi) any such plan which is a Group Health Plan has complied
in all material respects with the provisions of Sections 601-608 of
ERISA and Section 4980B of the IRC, (vii) there are no pending or, to
the Knowledge of any Acquired Company, Threatened claims by or on
behalf of any such plan or any other FAL Benefit Plan, by any
employees, former employees or plan beneficiaries covered by such plan
or otherwise by or on behalf of any person involving any such plan
(other than routine non-contested claims for benefits) which could
result in a material liability to the Acquired Companies taken as a
whole, and (viii) neither the Acquired Companies nor any FAL Commonly
Controlled Entity has engaged in, or is a successor or parent
corporation to any entity or person that has engaged in, a transaction
described in Section 4069 of ERISA.
(f) The execution and delivery of this Agreement and the consummation of
the transactions contemplated hereby will not (i) increase the amount
of benefits otherwise payable under any FAL Benefit Plan, (ii) result
in the acceleration
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of the time of eligibility to participate in any FAL Benefit Plan, or
any payment, exercisability, funding or vesting of any benefit under
any FAL Benefit Plan, (iii) result in any payment becoming due to or
with respect to any current or former employee, director or consultant,
or (iv) result in any payment becoming due in the event of a
termination of employment or service of any employee, director or
consultant.
(g) None of the Acquired Companies is a party to any Applicable Contract
nor has it established any policy or practice, which would require it
or SUG to make a payment or provide any other form of compensation or
benefit to any Person performing (or who within the past twelve months
performed) services for any of the Acquired Companies during or upon
termination of such services which would not be payable or provided in
the absence of the consummation of the transactions contemplated by
this Agreement.
(h) Except as would affect unionized employees and/or retirees who had been
unionized employees, each FAL Benefit Plan which is an "employee
welfare benefit plan," as such term is defined in Section 3(1) of
ERISA, may be unilaterally amended or terminated in its entirety
without any liability being incurred by any of the Acquired Companies,
SUG or any Affiliate of SUG, except as to benefits accrued thereunder
prior to such amendment or termination.
(i) None of the Acquired Companies has contributed nor been obligated to
contribute to any "multi-employer plan" within the meaning of Section
3(37) of ERISA within the last six years, and none of the Acquired
Companies has any outstanding liability with respect to any such plan.
(j) Section 5.18(j) of the FAL Disclosure Schedule contains a true and
complete list of each FAL Benefit Plan, and any management, employment,
deferred compensation, severance (including any payment, right or
benefit resulting from a change in control), bonus, or other contract
for personal services with any current or former officer, director or
employee, any consulting contract with any person who prior to entering
this such contract was a director or officer or owner of 5% or more of
the stock of any Acquired Company or family member of any such
director, officer or stockholder, or any plan, agreement, arrangement
or understanding similar to any of the foregoing. There are no
outstanding options to purchase FAL capital stock or other securities.
FAL has provided to SUG a complete and correct copy of each FAL Benefit
Plan (or written summary of any unwritten FAL Benefit Plan), and with
respect to each FAL Benefit Plan, the current summary plan description,
related trust agreements, related insurance contracts, the latest IRS
determination letter, the last three annual reports on Form 5500 series
(including all required schedules), and the most recent actuarial
report and annual financial statements.
SECTION 5.19 ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS. Except as set forth in Section 5.19 of the
FAL Disclosure Schedule or as specifically described in the FAL SEC Documents
delivered to SUG prior to the date of this Agreement, and with such other
exceptions as are not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to
have a FAL Material Adverse Effect:
(a) To the Knowledge of any Acquired Company, no Facility owned or operated
by any Acquired Company is currently, or was at any time, listed on the
National Priorities List promulgated under CERCLA, or on any comparable
state list, and no Acquired Company has received any written
notification of potential or actual liability or a written request for
information from any Person under or relating to CERCLA or any
comparable Legal Requirement with respect to any Acquired Company or
the Facilities;
(b) To the Knowledge of any Acquired Company, each Acquired Company and any
Person for whose conduct any Acquired Company is reasonably likely to
be held responsible, is currently and at all times has been, in
material compliance with any Environmental Law. No Acquired Company has
received any Order, notice, or other communication from (i) any
Governmental Body or private citizen acting in the public interest, or
(ii) the current or prior owner or operator of any Facilities, of any
violation or failure to comply with any Environmental Law, or of any
obligation to undertake or bear the cost of any environmental cleanup,
or with respect to any property or Facility at which Hazardous
Materials generated by any Acquired Company were transported for
disposal;
(c) There are no pending or, to the Knowledge of any Acquired Company,
Threatened claims arising under or pursuant to any Environmental Law
with respect to or affecting any of the Facilities or any other
properties and assets (whether real, personal, or mixed) in which any
Acquired Company has or had a direct or indirect interest (including by
ownership or use); and
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(d) FAL has delivered or made available to SUG true and complete copies and
results of any environmental site assessments, studies, analyses, tests
or monitoring possessed by any Acquired Company of which any Acquired
Company has Knowledge pertaining to Hazardous Materials or Hazardous
Activities in, on or under the Facilities, or concerning compliance by
any Acquired Company or any other Person for whose conduct any
Acquired Company is reasonably likely to be held responsible, with
Environmental Laws.
SECTION 5.20 NO MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE. Since the date of the FAL Balance
Sheet, except as specifically described in the FAL SEC Documents delivered to
SUG prior to the date of this Agreement, there has not been any FAL Material
Adverse Effect, and no events have occurred or circumstances exist that are,
individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a FAL Material
Adverse Effect, except that any FAL Material Adverse Effect that results from
or relates to (a) general business or economic conditions, (b) conditions
generally affecting the industries in which the Acquired Companies compete or
(c) the announcement of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement shall
be disregarded.
SECTION 5.21 BROKERS. No Acquired Company is a party to, or in any way
obligated under any Applicable Contract, and there are no outstanding claims
against any Acquired Company, for the payment of any broker's or finder's fees
in connection with the origin, negotiation, execution or performance of this
Agreement.
SECTION 5.22 REGULATORY PROCEEDINGS. Except as set forth in Section 5.22 of
the FAL Disclosure Schedule, other than purchase gas adjustment provisions,
none of FAL or its Subsidiaries all or part of whose rates or services are
regulated by a Governmental Body (a) has rates that have been or are being
collected subject to refund, pending final resolution of any rate proceeding
pending before a Governmental Body or on appeal to the courts, or (b) is a
party to any rate proceeding before a Governmental Body that are, individually
or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to result in any Orders having a FAL
Material Adverse Effect.
SECTION 5.23 PROXY STATEMENT; REGISTRATION STATEMENT. None of the information
supplied or to be supplied by or on behalf of the Acquired Companies in either
the FAL Proxy Statement or supplied or to be supplied by the Acquired
Companies to SUG for inclusion in the Registration Statement, will, in the
case of the Registration Statement, at the effective time of the Registration
Statement, at any time the Registration Statement is amended or supplemented,
at the date the FAL Proxy Statement is first mailed to FAL's stockholders, at
any time the FAL Proxy Statement is amended or supplemented, at the time of
the FAL Meeting and at the Effective Time, and in the case of the FAL Proxy
Statement, at the date the FAL Proxy Statement is first mailed to FAL's
stockholders, at any time the FAL Proxy Statement is amended or supplemented
and at the time of the FAL Meeting (giving effect to any documents
incorporated by reference therein), contain any untrue statement of a material
fact or omit to state any material fact required to be stated therein or
necessary in order to make the statements therein, in light of the
circumstances under which they are made, not misleading. The FAL Proxy
Statement will comply as to form and in substance in all material respects
with the applicable provisions of the Exchange Act and the rules and
regulations thereunder.
SECTION 5.24 VOTE REQUIRED. Other than the approval of the Merger by the
holders of two thirds of the outstanding shares of FAL Common Stock entitled
to vote on the question (the "FAL Stockholders' Approval"), no vote of the
holders of any class or series of the capital stock of any Acquired Company is
required to approve this Agreement and the Merger.
SECTION 5.25 OPINION OF FINANCIAL ADVISOR. FAL has provided SUG a copy of the
opinion of Legg Mason Wood Walker, Incorporated, dated as of the date hereof,
with respect to the merger consideration to be received by the holders of FAL
Common Stock pursuant to the transactions contemplated by this agreement.
SECTION 5.26 DISCLAIMER OF REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. EXCEPT FOR THE
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES CONTAINED IN THIS ARTICLE V, FAL MAKES NO OTHER
REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AND FAL HEREBY DISCLAIMS
ANY SUCH OTHER REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES, WHETHER BY FAL, ANY SUBSIDIARY
OF FAL, OR ANY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, AGENTS OR
REPRESENTATIVES, OR ANY OTHER PERSON, WITH RESPECT TO THIS AGREEMENT AND THE
TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY, NOTWITHSTANDING THE DELIVERY OR DISCLOSURE
TO SUG OR ANY OF ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, AGENTS OR
REPRESENTATIVES, OR ANY OTHER PERSON, OF ANY DOCUMENTATION OR OTHER
INFORMATION BY FAL, ANY SUBSIDIARY OF FAL, OR ANY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE
DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, AGENTS OR REPRESENTATIVES, OR ANY OTHER
PERSON, WITH RESPECT TO ANY OF THE FOREGOING.
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ARTICLE VI
COVENANTS
SECTION 6.1 COVENANTS OF FAL. FAL agrees to observe and perform the following
covenants and agreements:
(a) CONDUCT OF THE BUSINESS PRIOR TO THE CLOSING DATE. With respect to the
Acquired Companies, except (i) as contemplated in this Agreement, (ii)
as required by law or regulation, or (iii) as otherwise expressly
consented to in writing by SUG which consent shall not be unreasonably
withheld or delayed, prior to the Closing, FAL will cause each
Acquired Company to:
(1) Not make or permit any material change in the general
nature of its business;
(2) Maintain its Ordinary Course of Business in accordance with
prudent business judgment and consistent with past practice
and policy, and maintain its assets in good operating
repair, order and condition, reasonable wear and tear
excepted, subject to retirements in the Ordinary Course of
Business;
(3) Preserve the Acquired Company as an ongoing business and
use reasonable efforts to maintain the goodwill associated
with the Acquired Company;
(4) Preserve all of the Acquired Companies' franchises,
tariffs, certificates of public convenience and necessity,
licenses, authorizations and other governmental rights and
permits;
(5) Not enter into any material transaction or Material
Contract;
(6) Not purchase, sell, lease, dispose of or otherwise transfer
or make any contract for the purchase, sale, lease,
disposition or transfer of, or subject to lien, any of the
assets of the Acquired Company other than in the Ordinary
Course of Business;
(7) Not hire any new employee unless such employee is a bona
fide replacement for a presently-filled position with the
Acquired Company as of the date hereof;
(8) Not file any material applications, petitions, motions,
orders, briefs, settlement or agreements in any material
Proceeding before any Governmental Body which involves any
Acquired Company, and appeals related thereto;
(9) Not engage in or modify, except in the Ordinary Course of
Business, any material intercompany transactions involving
any other Acquired Company;
(10) Not voluntarily change in any material respect or terminate
any insurance policies disclosed on Section 5.16(a) of the
FAL Disclosure Schedule that presently are in effect unless
equivalent coverage is obtained;
(11) Except as disclosed or specifically contemplated in this
Agreement or in Section 6.1(a)(11) of the FAL Disclosure
Schedule, and with respect to budgeted expenditures known
and specifically disclosed in writing to SUG, subject to
adjustments in the Ordinary Course of Business and other
deviations (which in the aggregate shall not exceed 5% on
an annualized basis during the period from the date of
this Agreement until the Closing Date), not make any
capital expenditure or capital expenditure commitment;
(12) Not make any changes in financial policies or practices, or
strategic or operating policies or practices, in each case
which involve any Acquired Company;
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(13) Comply in all material respects with all applicable
material Legal Requirements and permits, including without
limitation those relating to the filing of reports and the
payment of Taxes due to be paid prior to the Closing, other
than those contested in good faith;
(14) Not adopt, amend (other than amendments that reduce the
amounts payable by SUG or any of its Subsidiaries or
amendments required by law) or assume an obligation to
contribute to any FAL Benefit Plan or collective bargaining
agreement or enter into any employment, consulting,
severance or similar Contract with any Person (including
without limitation, contracts with management of any
Acquired Company or any of its Affiliates that might
require payments be made upon consummation of the
transactions contemplated hereby) or amend any such
existing contracts;
(15) Except in the Ordinary Course of Business or as required by
the terms of any existing Contract, FAL Benefit Plan or
collective bargaining agreement, not grant any increase or
change in total compensation, benefits or pay any bonus to
any employee, director or consultant;
(16) Not grant or enter into or extend the term of any Contract
with respect to continued employment or service for any
employee, officer, director or consultant;
(17) Not make any loan or advance to any Person other than to
any officer, director, stockholder or employee in the
Ordinary Course of Business;
(18) Not terminate any existing gas purchase, exchange or
transportation contract necessary to supply firm gas at
all city gate delivery points or enter into any new
contract for the supply, transportation, storage or
exchange of gas with respect to the Acquired Companies'
regulated gas distribution operations or renew or
extend or negotiate any existing contract providing for
the same where such contract is not terminable within
sixty (60) days without penalty;
(19) Not amend any of its Organizational Documents; and
(20) Subject to Section 6.1(l), not issue or assume any
note, debenture or other evidence of indebtedness which
by its terms does not mature within one year from the
date of execution or issuance thereof, unless otherwise
redeemable or subject to prepayment at any time at the
option of the Acquired Company on not more than thirty
(30) days notice without penalty for such redemption or
prepayment.
(b) CUSTOMER NOTIFICATIONS. At any time and from time to time reasonably
requested by SUG prior to the Closing Date, each Acquired Company will
permit SUG at FAL's expense to insert preprinted single-page customer
education materials into billing documentation to be delivered to
customers affected by this Agreement; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that FAL has
reviewed in advance and consented to the content of such materials,
which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. Other
means of notifying customers may be employed by either party,
at the expense of the initiating party, but in no event shall any
notification be initiated without the prior consent of the other party
(which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed).
(c) ACCESS TO THE ACQUIRED COMPANIES' OFFICES, PROPERTIES AND
RECORDS; UPDATING INFORMATION.
(1) From and after the date hereof and until the Closing
Date, the Acquired Companies shall permit SUG and its
Representatives to have, on reasonable notice and at
reasonable times, reasonable access to such of the
offices, properties and employees of the Acquired
Companies, and shall disclose, and make available to SUG
and its Representatives all books, papers and records to
the extent that they relate to the ownership, operation,
obligations and liabilities of or pertaining to the
Acquired Companies, their businesses, assets and
liabilities. Without limiting the application of the
Confidentiality Agreement dated October 4, 1999 between
FAL and SUG (the "Confidentiality Agreement"), all
documents or information furnished by the Acquired
Companies hereunder shall be subject to the
Confidentiality Agreement.
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(2) FAL will notify SUG as promptly as practicable of any
significant change in the Ordinary Course of Business or
operation of any of the Acquired Companies and of any
material complaints, investigations or hearings (or
communications indicating that the same may be
contemplated) by any Governmental Body, or the institution
or overt threat or settlement of any material Proceeding
involving or affecting any of the Acquired Companies or
the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and shall
use reasonable efforts to keep SUG fully informed of such
events and permit SUG's Representatives access to all
materials prepared in connection therewith, consistent
with any applicable Legal Requirement or Contract.
(3) As promptly as practicable after SUG's request, FAL will
furnish such financial and operating data and other
information pertaining to the Acquired Companies and their
businesses and assets as SUG may reasonably request;
PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that nothing herein will obligate any
of the Acquired Companies to take actions that would
unreasonably disrupt its Ordinary Course of Business or
violate the terms of any Legal Requirement or Contract to
which the Acquired Company is a party or to which any of
its assets is subject in providing such information, or to
incur any costs with respect to SUG's external auditors
(or the Acquired Companies' external auditors in the event
a report by such auditors is requested by SUG) providing
accounting services with respect to issuing an auditor's
report required by or for SUG.
(d) GOVERNMENTAL APPROVALS; THIRD PARTY CONSENTS. FAL will use its
reasonable best efforts to obtain all necessary consents, approvals
and waivers from any Person required in connection with the
transactions contemplated hereby under any license, lease, permit or
Contract applicable to the Acquired Companies, including, without
limitation, the approvals of those Governmental Bodies and the
consents of those third parties listed in Section 5.4 and Section 5.5
of the FAL Disclosure Schedule and as required by the HSR Act.
(e) DIVIDENDS. FAL shall not, nor shall it permit any of its Subsidiaries
to: (i) declare or pay any dividends on or make other distributions in
respect of any of its or their capital stock other than (A) dividends
by a wholly-owned Subsidiary to FAL or another wholly-owned
Subsidiary, or (B) regular quarterly dividends on FAL Common Stock
with usual record and payment dates that do not exceed the current
rate of $0.96 per fiscal year; (ii) split, combine or reclassify any
of its capital stock or the capital stock of any Subsidiary or issue
or authorize or propose the issuance of any other securities in
respect of, or in substitution for, shares of its capital stock or
the capital stock of any Subsidiary; or (iii) redeem, repurchase or
otherwise acquire any shares of its capital stock or the capital
stock of any Subsidiary other than redemptions, repurchases and other
acquisitions of shares of capital stock in connection with the
administration of employee benefit and dividend reinvestment and
customer stock purchase plans as in effect on the date hereof in the
ordinary course of the operation of such plans consistent with past
practice.
(f) ISSUANCE OF SECURITIES. FAL shall not, nor shall it permit any of its
Subsidiaries to, issue, agree to issue, deliver, sell, award, pledge,
dispose of or otherwise encumber or authorize or propose the issuance,
delivery, sale, award, pledge, disposal or other encumbrance of, any
shares of its or their capital stock of any class or any securities
convertible into or exchangeable for, or any rights, warrants or
options to acquire, any such shares or convertible or exchangeable
securities, other than as provided for in the FAL Benefit Plans, and
its dividend reinvestment plan in effect as of the date hereof.
(g) ACCOUNTING. FAL shall not, nor shall it permit any of its Subsidiaries
to, make any changes in their accounting methods, principles or
practices except as required by law, rule, regulation or GAAP.
(h) NO SHOPPING.
(1) FAL shall not, and shall not authorize or permit any of its
(or any of its Subsidiaries') officers, directors, agents,
financial advisors, attorneys, accountants or other
Representatives to, directly or indirectly, solicit,
initiate or encourage submission of proposals or offers
from any Person relating to, or that could reasonably be
expected to lead to, a Business Combination or participate
in any negotiations or discussions regarding, or furnish
to any other Person any information with respect to, or
otherwise cooperate in any way with, or assist or
participate in, facilitate or encourage, any effort or
attempt by any other Person to do or seek a Business
Combination; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that, prior to the FAL
Stockholders'
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Approval, FAL may, in response to an unsolicited written
proposal from a third party with respect to a Business
Combination that FAL's Board of Directors determines, in
its good faith judgment, after consultation with and the
receipt of the advice of its financial advisor and outside
counsel with customary qualifications, is a Superior
Proposal, (i) furnish information to, and negotiate,
explore or otherwise engage in substantive discussions
with such third party, only if FAL's Board of Directors
determines, in its good faith judgment after consultation
with its financial advisors and outside legal counsel,
that it is reasonably necessary in order to comply with
its fiduciary duties under applicable law and (ii) take
and disclose to FAL's stockholders a position with respect
to another Business Combination proposal, or amend or
withdraw such position, pursuant to Rule 14d-9 and 14e-2
under the Exchange Act, or make such disclosure to FAL's
stockholders which in the good faith judgment of FAL's
Board of Directors is required by applicable law, based on
the advice of its outside counsel. Prior to furnishing any
non-public information to, entering into negotiations with
or accepting a Superior Proposal from such third party,
FAL will (i) provide written notice to SUG to the effect
that it is furnishing information to or entering into
discussions or negotiations with such third party and (ii)
receive from such third party an executed confidentiality
agreement containing substantially the same terms and
conditions as the Confidentiality Agreement. FAL will
immediately cease and cause to be terminated any existing
solicitation, initiation, encouragement, activity,
discussion or negotiations with any parties conducted
heretofore by FAL or any of its representatives with
respect to any Business Combination.
(2) Except as expressly permitted by this Section 6.1(h),
neither the FAL Board of Directors nor any committee
thereof may, (i) withdraw or modify, or propose publicly
to withdraw or modify, in a manner adverse to SUG, the
approval or recommendation by such Board of Directors or
such committee of the Merger or this Agreement, (ii)
approve or recommend, or propose publicly to approve or
recommend, a Business Combination or (iii) cause FAL to
enter into any letter of intent, agreement in principle,
acquisition agreement or other similar agreement related
to any Business Combination. Notwithstanding the
foregoing, prior to the time at which the FAL
Stockholders' Approval has been obtained, in response to
an unsolicited Business Combination proposal from a third
party, if FAL's Board of Directors determines, in its good
faith judgment, after consultation with and the receipt of
the advice of its financial advisor and outside counsel
with customary qualifications, that such proposal is a
Superior Proposal and that failure to do any of the
actions set forth in clauses (i), (ii) or (iii) above
would create a reasonable possibility of a breach of the
fiduciary duties of FAL's Board of Directors under
applicable law, FAL's Board of Directors may (i) withdraw
or modify its approval or recommendation of the Merger or
this Agreement, approve or recommend a Business
Combination or cause FAL to enter into a Business
Combination and (ii) negotiate with a third party with
respect to such Business Combination proposal and, subject
to FAL having paid to SUG the fees described in Section
8.3(a) hereof and having entered into a definitive
agreement with respect to such Business Combination
proposal, terminate this Agreement; PROVIDED, HOWEVER,
that prior to entering into a definitive agreement with
respect to a Business Combination proposal, FAL shall give
SUG at least five (5) day's notice thereof, and shall
cause its Representatives to, negotiate with SUG to make
such adjustments in the terms and conditions of this
Agreement as would enable FAL to proceed with the
transactions contemplated herein on such adjusted terms;
PROVIDED, FURTHER, that if FAL and SUG are unable to reach
an agreement on such adjustments within five (5) days
after such notice from FAL, FAL may enter into such
definitive agreement, subject to the provisions of Article
VIII.
(3) FAL shall notify SUG orally and in writing of any such
inquiries, offers or proposals (including, without
limitation, the material terms and conditions of any such
offer or proposal and the identity of the Person making
it), within one business day of the receipt thereof, shall
use all reasonable efforts to keep SUG informed of the
status and details of any such inquiry, offer or proposal
and shall give SUG two (2) days advance notice of the
first delivery of non-public information to such Person.
If any such inquiry, offer or proposal is in writing, FAL
shall promptly deliver to SUG a copy of such inquiry,
offer or proposal.
(4) For purposes of this Agreement, (i) "Business Combination"
means (other than the transactions contemplated or
permitted by this Agreement) (A) a merger, consolidation or
other business combination, share exchange, sale of shares
of capital stock, tender offer or exchange offer or similar
transaction involving FAL or any of its Subsidiaries, (B)
acquisition in any manner, directly or indirectly, of a
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material interest in any capital stock of, or a material
equity interest in a substantial portion of the assets of,
FAL or any of its Subsidiaries, including any single or
multi-step transaction or series of related transactions
that is structured to permit a third party to acquire
beneficial ownership of a majority or greater equity
interest in FAL or any of its Subsidiaries, or (C) the
acquisition in any manner, directly or indirectly, of any
material portion of the business or assets (other than
immaterial or insubstantial assets or inventory in the
Ordinary Course of Business) of FAL or any of its
Subsidiaries and (ii) "Superior Proposal" means a proposed
Business Combination involving at least 50% of the shares
of capital stock or a material portion of the assets of
FAL that FAL's Board of Directors determines, after
consulting with FAL's financial advisors and outside
counsel, is financially superior to the transactions
contemplated hereby and it appears that the party making
the proposal is reasonably likely to have the funds
necessary to consummate the Business Combination.
(i) SOLICITATION OF PROXIES; FAL PROXY STATEMENT. Subject to Section
6.1(h), FAL shall use its reasonable best efforts to solicit from
its stockholders proxies in favor of the Merger and shall take
all other action necessary or, in the reasonable opinion of SUG,
advisable to secure the FAL Stockholders' Approval.
(j) FAL STOCKHOLDERS' APPROVAL.
(1) Subject to the provisions of Section 6.1(h) and Section
6.1(j)(2), FAL shall, as soon as reasonably practicable
after the date hereof (i) take all steps necessary to
duly call, give notice of, convene and hold a meeting of
its stockholders (including all adjournments thereof,
the "FAL Meeting") for the purpose of securing the FAL
Stockholders' Approval, (ii) distribute to its
stockholders the FAL Proxy Statement in accordance with
applicable federal and state law and with its
Organizational Documents, (iii) subject to the fiduciary
duties of its Board of Directors, recommend to its
stockholders the approval and adoption of this Agreement
and the transactions contemplated hereby and (iv)
cooperate and consult with SUG with respect to each of
the foregoing matters.
(2) The FAL Meeting for the purpose of securing the FAL
Stockholders' Approval, including any adjournments thereof,
will be held on such date or dates as FAL and SUG mutually
determine.
(k) RULE 145 LETTERS. FAL shall promptly identify to SUG all
officers and directors of any Acquired Company and any other
persons who are "affiliates" within the meaning of such term as
used in Rule 145 under the Securities Act ("Rule 145
Affiliates"), and FAL shall use its reasonable efforts to
provide to SUG undertakings from such persons ("Rule 145
Letters") to the effect that no disposition of shares of SUG
Common Stock received in the Merger will be made by such persons
except within the limits and in accordance with the applicable
provisions of said Rule 145, as amended from time to time, or
except in a transaction which, in the opinion of legal counsel
satisfactory to SUG, is exempt from registration under the
Securities Act.
(l) FINANCING ACTIVITIES. FAL shall, and shall cause its
Subsidiaries to, cooperate, to the fullest extent commercially
reasonable and practicable, with SUG's requests with respect to
refinancing by the Acquired Companies of the current maturities
of any of their indebtedness, and any repurchase, redemption or
prepayment by any of the Acquired Companies of any of its
indebtedness that may be required prior to or because of the
Merger or that SUG may request that the Acquired Companies
effect prior to the Merger, so as to permit SUG to have the
maximum opportunity to refinance, on or promptly after the
Closing Date without any penalty except as may be due pursuant
to the terms of the Acquired Companies' indebtedness as in
effect on the date of this Agreement, any of the Acquired
Companies' indebtedness outstanding on the Closing Date;
PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that no Acquired Company shall be required to
consummate prior to the Effective Time any such refinancing,
repurchase, redemption or repayment requested by SUG.
(m) FAL DISCLOSURE SCHEDULE. On the date hereof, FAL has delivered
to SUG the FAL Disclosure Schedule, accompanied by a certificate
signed by an executive officer of FAL stating the FAL Disclosure
Schedule is being delivered pursuant to this Section 6.1(m). The
FAL Disclosure Schedule constitutes an integral part of this
Agreement and modifies the representations, warranties,
covenants or agreements of FAL contained herein to the extent
that such representations, warranties, covenants or agreements
expressly refer to the FAL Disclosure Schedule.
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(n) FAL BONDHOLDERS' CONSENT. FAL shall use its reasonable
best efforts to obtain consents from all holders of each series
of First Mortgage Bonds issued and outstanding under the
Indenture of First Mortgage, dated as of December 1, 1952,
between FAL and State Street Bank and Trust Company, successor
in interest to the First National Bank of Boston, successor by
merger to Old Colony Trust Company, as Trustee, as amended or
supplemented from time to time, to such amendments to such
Indenture as requested by SUG.
SECTION 6.2 COVENANTS OF SUG. SUG agrees to observe and perform the following
covenants and agreements:
(a) GOVERNMENTAL APPROVALS; THIRD PARTY CONSENTS. SUG will use its
reasonable best efforts at SUG's sole expense to obtain all necessary
consents, approvals and waivers from any Person required in connection
with the transactions contemplated hereby under any license, lease,
permit, Contract or agreement applicable to SUG, including, without
limitation, the approvals of those Governmental Bodies and the
consents of those third parties listed in Section 4.5 of the SUG
Disclosure Schedule and as required by the HSR Act.
(b) EMPLOYEES; BENEFITS. With respect to the employees (excluding
unionized employees) listed in Section 5.17(a) of the FAL Disclosure
Schedule (or their successors employed pursuant to Section 6.1(a)(7)
above) (the "Employees"), except as otherwise specified herein, SUG
agrees as follows:
(1) During the 12 months immediately following the Closing
Date, to make available to the Employees who continue
their service with the Surviving Corporation or any
Subsidiary of the Surviving Corporation employee benefit
plans or arrangements that are no less favorable, in the
aggregate, than the FAL Benefit Plans listed in Section
5.18(j) of the FAL Disclosure Schedule offered to the
Employees immediately prior to the date of this
Agreement.
(2) For purposes of eligibility, vesting and benefit accrual
under all benefit plans provided to the Employees after the
Closing Date, SUG will recognize the tenure of employment,
as recognized by the Acquired Companies as of the Closing
Date.
(3) All vacation time earned by the Employees prior to the
Closing Date must be taken by the end of the calendar
year in which the Closing Date occurs, except where the
Employee is requested by FAL or SUG to forego their
vacation for business-related reasons. For purposes of
awarding vacation time at the beginning of each calendar
year following the Closing Date, SUG will recognize the
tenure of employment, as recognized by the Acquired
Company as of the Closing Date.
(c) BLUE SKY PERMITS. SUG shall use its reasonable best efforts to obtain,
prior to the effective date of the Registration Statement, all
necessary state securities laws or "blue sky" permits and approvals
required to carry out the transactions contemplated by the Agreement,
and will pay all expenses incident thereto.
(d) LISTING APPLICATION. Prior to the Closing, SUG shall cause the shares
of SUG Common Stock constituting the Stock Consideration to be listed
on the NYSE, subject to official notice of issuance thereof.
(e) COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENTS. At the Effective Time, SUG agrees to
assume all collective bargaining agreements covering employees of any
Acquired Company, and shall discharge when due any and all liabilities
of any Acquired Company under such collective bargaining agreements
relating to periods after the Effective Time.
(f) SUG DISCLOSURE SCHEDULE. On the date hereof, SUG has delivered to FAL
the SUG Disclosure Schedule, accompanied by a certificate signed by an
executive officer of SUG stating that the SUG Disclosure Schedule is
being delivered pursuant to this Section 6.2(f). The SUG Disclosure
Schedule constitutes an integral part of this Agreement and modifies
the representations, warranties, covenants or agreements of SUG
contained herein to the extent that such representations, warranties,
covenants or agreements expressly refer to the SUG Disclosure
Schedule.
(g) CONDUCT OF THE BUSINESS PRIOR TO THE CLOSING DATE. Except (i) as
contemplated in this Agreement, (ii) in connection with the
transactions contemplated by the PEI Merger Agreement, (iii) as
required by law or regulation or (iv) as otherwise expressly consented
to in writing by FAL which consent will not be unreasonably withheld or
delayed, prior to the Closing, SUG will:
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(1) Not make or permit any material change in the general
nature of its business;
(2) Maintain its present operations in the Ordinary Course of
Business in accordance with prudent business judgment and
consistent with past practice and policy, and maintain its
assets in good repair, order and condition, reasonable wear
and tear excepted, subject to retirements in the Ordinary
Course of Business;
(3) Preserve SUG as an ongoing business and use reasonable
efforts to maintain the goodwill associated with SUG; and
(4) Preserve all of SUG's franchises, tariffs, certificates of
public convenience and necessity, licenses, authorizations
and other governmental rights and permits.
(h) ACCESS TO SUG'S OFFICES, PROPERTIES AND RECORDS; UPDATING INFORMATION.
(1) From and after the date hereof and until the Closing Date,
SUG and its Subsidiaries shall permit FAL and its
Representatives to have, on reasonable notice and at
reasonable times, reasonable access to such of the
offices, properties and employees of SUG and its
Subsidiaries, and shall disclose, and make available to
FAL and its Representatives all books, papers and records
to the extent that they relate to the ownership,
operation, obligations and liabilities of or pertaining to
SUG, its Subsidiaries and their respective businesses and
assets. Without limiting the application of the
Confidentiality Agreement, all documents or information
furnished by SUG and its Subsidiaries hereunder shall be
subject to the Confidentiality Agreement.
(2) SUG will notify FAL as promptly as practicable of any
significant change in the Ordinary Course of Business or
operation of SUG or any of its Subsidiaries and of any
material complaints, investigations or hearings (or
communications indicating that the same may be
contemplated) by any Governmental Body, or the institution
or overt threat or settlement of any material Proceeding
involving or affecting SUG or any of its Subsidiaries or
the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and shall
use reasonable efforts to keep FAL fully informed of such
events and permit FAL's Representatives access to all
materials prepared in connection therewith consistent with
any applicable Legal Requirement or Contract.
SECTION 6.3 ADDITIONAL AGREEMENTS.
(a) THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT AND THE FAL PROXY STATEMENT. As soon as
practicable after the date hereof, FAL and SUG shall take such
reasonable steps as are necessary for the prompt preparation and
filing with the SEC of (i) the FAL Proxy Statement by FAL and (ii)
the Registration Statement, which will include certain information
contained in the FAL Proxy Statement, by SUG. The foregoing shall
include without limitation: (i) obtaining and furnishing the
information required to be included therein, (ii) after consultation
between FAL and SUG, responding promptly to any comments made by the
SEC with respect to the FAL Proxy Statement and the Registration
Statement and any amendments and preliminary version thereof and
(iii) causing the Registration Statement to become effective, and the
FAL Proxy Statement to be mailed to FAL's stockholders at the
earliest practicable date. FAL agrees, as to information with respect
to FAL, its officers, directors, stockholders and Subsidiaries
contained in the Registration Statement and the FAL Proxy Statement,
and SUG agrees, as to information with respect to SUG, its officers,
directors, stockholders and Subsidiaries contained in the
Registration Statement and the FAL Proxy Statement, that such
information, in the case of the FAL Proxy Statement at the time of
the mailing of the FAL Proxy Statement and (as then amended or
supplemented) at the time of the FAL Meeting, or in the case of the
Registration Statement at the time of the mailing of the FAL Proxy
Statement (as then amended or supplemented), at the time of the FAL
Meeting and at the effective time of the Registration Statement, will
not contain any untrue statement of material fact required to be
stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein,
in light of the circumstances under which they are made, not
misleading. No representation, warranty, covenant or agreement is
made by or on behalf of FAL with respect to information supplied by
any other Person for inclusion in the FAL Proxy Statement or the
Registration Statement. No representation, warranty, covenant or
agreement is made by or on behalf of SUG with respect to information
supplied by any other Person for inclusion in the FAL Proxy Statement
or the Registration Statement. No filing of, or amendment or
supplement to, the FAL Proxy Statement or the Registration
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Statement shall be made by any party hereto without providing the
other party with the opportunity to review and comment thereon
(except for any ongoing SEC reporting required of SUG or FAL that
will be incorporated by reference). If at any time prior to the
Effective Time any information relating to any party hereto or any of
their respective officers, directors, stockholders or Subsidiaries,
should be discovered by any party hereto which should be set forth in
an amendment or supplement to the FAL Proxy Statement or the
Registration Statement so that the FAL Proxy Statement or the
Registration Statement would not include any untrue statement of a
material fact or omit to state any material fact necessary to make
the statements therein, in light of the circumstances under which
they were made, not misleading, the party which discovers such
information shall promptly notify the other party hereto and an
appropriate amendment or supplement describing such information shall
be promptly prepared, filed with the SEC and, to the extent required
by law, disseminated to the stockholders of FAL, as may be necessary.
(b) FURTHER ASSURANCES. Each of SUG and FAL agrees, and FAL agrees to
cause its Subsidiaries, to take all such reasonable and lawful action
as may be necessary or appropriate in order to effectuate the Merger
in accordance with this Agreement as promptly as possible. If, at any
time after the Effective Time, any such further action is necessary
or desirable to carry out the purpose of this Agreement and to vest
the Surviving Corporation with full right, title and possession to
all assets, property, rights, privileges, powers and franchises of
the Acquired Companies, the officers and directors of the Surviving
Corporation will be fully authorized to take, and will take, all such
lawful and necessary action.
(c) FINANCIAL STATEMENTS TO BE PROVIDED. Upon SUG's request, FAL shall (i)
provide to SUG audited and unaudited financial statements required to
be included in the proxy statements and the registration statement
contemplated by the PEI Merger Agreement and (ii) cause its
independent accountants to deliver to SUG and PEI the required
consents in connection therewith.
ARTICLE VII
CONDITIONS
SECTION 7.1 CONDITIONS TO SUG'S OBLIGATION TO EFFECT THE MERGER. The obligation
of SUG to effect the transactions contemplated by this Agreement shall be
subject to fulfillment at or prior to the Closing of the following conditions:
(a) REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES TRUE AS OF THE CLOSING DATE. FAL's
representations and warranties in this Agreement shall have been
accurate in all material respects as of the date of this Agreement
and shall be accurate in all material respects as of the Closing Date
as if made on the Closing Date; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that any such
representation or warranty that is qualified by any standard of
materiality (including, but not limited to, FAL Material Adverse
Effect) shall have then been, and shall then be, accurate in all
respects.
(b) COMPLIANCE WITH AGREEMENTS. The covenants, agreements and conditions
required by this Agreement to be performed and complied with by any of
the Acquired Companies shall have been performed and complied with in
all material respects prior to or at the Closing Date.
(c) CERTIFICATE. FAL shall execute and deliver to SUG a certificate of an
authorized officer of FAL, dated the Closing Date, stating that the
conditions specified in Sections 7.1(a) and 7.1(b) of this Agreement
applicable to the Acquired Companies have been satisfied.
(d) GOVERNMENTAL APPROVALS. All approvals, consents, opinions or rulings
of all Governmental Bodies required in order to consummate the
transactions contemplated hereby shall have been obtained by Final
Order in such form as is, and with no conditions that are,
individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a FAL
Material Adverse Effect or a material adverse effect on the business,
operations, properties, financial condition or results of operations
of the Surviving Corporation, or which would otherwise, in the
reasonable determination of SUG, be unduly burdensome to the
Surviving Corporation or any of its Affiliates. In addition, and
without limitation of the condition set forth in the immediately
preceding sentence, the Massachusetts Department of
Telecommunications and Energy shall have resolved, by means of a
Final Order, the manner in which the Surviving Corporation as a whole
and its operating division in Massachusetts will be regulated under
Chapter 164 of the Massachusetts General
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Laws, and such resolution shall be acceptable to SUG in its sole
discretion. The applicable waiting period under the HSR Act with
respect to the transactions contemplated hereby shall have expired or
have been terminated.
(e) THIRD PARTY CONSENTS. Each of the consents required under Section 5.4
of this Agreement shall have been obtained to the reasonable
satisfaction of SUG, other than any such consents which, if not
obtained, are not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably
likely to result in a FAL Material Adverse Effect after the Closing.
In addition, all consents and approvals required, under the terms of
any note, bond or indenture listed in Section 5.4 of the FAL
Disclosure Schedule to which any of the Acquired Companies is a
party, shall have been obtained.
(f) INJUNCTIONS. On the Closing Date, there shall be no Orders which
operate to restrain, enjoin or otherwise prevent the consummation of
this Agreement or the Merger.
(g) RESIGNATIONS. Each director of each Acquired Company shall resign any
position as a director of an Acquired Company effective as of the
Closing Date in accordance with such Acquired Company's Organizational
Documents and applicable provisions of the MBCL; PROVIDED, HOWEVER,
that such resignations shall not cause the termination of any such
Person's employment as an employee of an Acquired Company or reduce
any such employee's then current level of compensation.
(h) OPINION OF TAX COUNSEL. On the Closing Date, SUG shall have received
from Hughes Hubbard & Reed LLP, counsel to SUG, an opinion to the
effect that the Merger will constitute a "reorganization" within the
meaning of IRC Section 368(a)(1)(A), and that no gain or loss will be
recognized by SUG or FAL with respect to the Merger.
(i) FAL STOCKHOLDERS' APPROVAL. The FAL Stockholders' Approval shall have
been obtained.
(j) APPRAISAL RIGHTS. Demand for payment for shares and appraisal thereof
by stockholders of FAL in accordance with the MBCL with respect to the
Merger shall not equal or exceed 5 percent of the shares of FAL Common
Stock entitled to vote on the Merger.
(k) RULE 145 LETTERS. Each Rule 145 Affiliate shall have executed and
delivered to SUG a Rule 145 Letter, in form and substance reasonably
satisfactory to SUG and its counsel.
(l) REGISTRATION STATEMENT. The Registration Statement shall have become
effective, no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the
Registration Statement shall have been issued and no proceedings for
that purpose shall have been initiated or threatened by the SEC.
(m) LISTING OF SUG COMMON STOCK. The shares of SUG Common Stock
constituting the Stock Consideration shall have been authorized for
listing, upon official notice of issuance, on the NYSE.
(n) FAL BONDHOLDERS' CONSENT. All holders of each series of First Mortgage
Bonds issued and outstanding under the Indenture of First Mortgage,
dated as of December 1, 1952, between FAL and State Street Bank and
Trust Company, successor in interest to the First National Bank of
Boston, successor by merger to Old Colony Trust Company, as Trustee,
as amended or supplemented from time to time, shall have consented to
such amendments to such Indenture as requested by SUG.
SECTION 7.2 CONDITIONS TO FAL'S OBLIGATIONS TO EFFECT THE MERGER. The
obligation of FAL to effect the transactions contemplated by this Agreement
shall be subject to fulfillment at or prior to the Closing of the following
conditions:
(a) REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES TRUE AS OF THE CLOSING DATE. SUG's
representations and warranties in this Agreement shall have been
accurate in all material respects as of the date of this Agreement and
shall be accurate in all material respects as of the Closing Date as
if made on the Closing Date; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that any such
representation or warranty that is qualified by any standard of
materiality (including, but not limited to, SUG Material Adverse
Effect) shall have then been, and shall then be, accurate in all
respects.
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(b) COMPLIANCE WITH AGREEMENTS. The covenants, agreements and conditions
required by this Agreement to be performed and complied with by SUG
shall have been performed and complied with in all material respects
prior to or at the Closing Date.
(c) CERTIFICATE. SUG shall execute and deliver to FAL a certificate of an
authorized officer of SUG, dated the Closing Date, stating that the
conditions specified in Sections 7.2(a) and 7.2(b) of this Agreement
applicable to SUG have been satisfied.
(d) GOVERNMENTAL APPROVALS. All approvals, consents, opinions or rulings
of all Governmental Bodies required in order to consummate the
transactions contemplated hereby shall have been obtained by Final
Order in such form as is, and with no conditions that are, individually
or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a material adverse
effect on the business, operations, properties, financial condition or
results of operations of the Surviving Corporation. The applicable
waiting period under the HSR Act with respect to the transactions
contemplated hereby shall have expired or have been terminated.
(e) INJUNCTIONS. On the Closing Date, there shall be no Orders which
operate to restrain, enjoin or otherwise prevent the consummation of
this Agreement or the Merger.
(f) OPINION OF COUNSEL. On the Closing Date, FAL shall have received from
Rich, May, Bilodeau & Flaherty, P.C., counsel to FAL, an opinion to
the effect that the Merger will be treated for federal income tax
purposes as a "reorganization" within the meaning of IRC Section
368(a), and that no gain or loss will be recognized for federal
income tax purposes by the stockholders of FAL who receive SUG Common
Stock in the Merger upon their receipt of the Merger Consideration,
except that any realized gain will be recognized to the extent of the
amount of cash received (including cash in lieu of the fractional
shares).
(g) FAL STOCKHOLDERS' APPROVAL. The FAL Stockholders' Approval shall have
been obtained.
(h) REGISTRATION STATEMENT. The Registration Statement shall have become
effective, no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the
Registration Statement shall have been issued and no proceedings for
that purpose shall have been initiated or threatened by the SEC.
(i) LISTING OF SUG COMMON STOCK. The shares of SUG Common Stock
constituting the Stock Consideration shall have been authorized for
listing, upon official notice of issuance, on the NYSE.
ARTICLE VIII
TERMINATION
SECTION 8.1 TERMINATION RIGHTS. This Agreement may be terminated in its
entirety at any time prior to the Closing:
(a) By the mutual written consent of SUG and FAL;
(b) By FAL, on the one hand, or SUG, on the other hand, in writing if
there shall be in effect a non-appealable order of a court of
competent jurisdiction prohibiting the consummation of the Merger
in accordance with this Agreement;
(c) By FAL, by written notice to SUG, if there is a breach of any
representation, warranty, covenant or agreement of SUG, which breach
cannot be cured and would cause the conditions set forth in Section
7.2(a) or (b) to be incapable of being satisfied;
(d) By SUG, by written notice to FAL, if there is a breach of any
representation, warranty, covenant or agreement of FAL, which breach
cannot be cured and would cause the conditions set forth in Section
7.1(a) or (b) to be incapable of being satisfied;
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(e) By FAL, by written notice to SUG in accordance with Section 6.1(h)(2);
PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that the termination described in this clause (e)
shall not be effective unless and until FAL shall have paid SUG the
fee described in Section 8.3(a) and FAL has substantially
contemporaneously entered into a definitive agreement with respect to
the proposed Business Combination;
(f) By FAL, by written notice to SUG, if the FAL Stockholders' Approval is
not obtained at the FAL Meeting or by SUG, by written notice to FAL,
if the FAL Stockholders' Approval is not obtained at the FAL Meeting;
PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that there has not been a material misrepresentation
or a material breach of covenant, warranty or agreement contained
herein on the part of the party asserting its right to terminate
pursuant to this Section 8.1(f);
(g) By SUG, by written notice to FAL, if the Board of Directors of FAL or
any committee thereof (i) withdraws or modifies, or proposes publicly
to withdraw or modify, in a manner adverse to SUG, the approval or
recommendation by the Board of Directors or such committee of the
Merger or this Agreement, (ii) approves or recommends, or proposes
publicly to approve or recommend, a Business Combination, (iii) causes
FAL to enter into a definitive agreement related to any Business
Combination or (iv) resolves to take any of the actions specified in
clause (i), (ii) and (iii) above;
(h) By SUG, by written notice to FAL, if a third party, including a group
(as defined under the Exchange Act) acquires securities representing
greater than 50% of the voting power of the outstanding voting
securities of FAL; or
(i) By FAL, by written notice to SUG, if the Average Trading Price of the
SUG Common Stock as of the Closing is lower than $15.00.
(j) By either party in writing at any time after 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time,
on October 15, 2000 (the "Initial Termination Date"), if the Closing
has not occurred prior thereto; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that the right to
terminate this Agreement under this Section 8.1(j) will not be
available to any party that is in material breach of its
representations, warranties, covenants or agreements contained
herein; and PROVIDED, FURTHER, that if on the Initial Termination
Date (i) the conditions to closing set forth in Sections 7.1(d) and
7.2(d) shall not have been fulfilled or (ii) any approval or
authorization of any Governmental Body required in connection with
the consummation of the Merger shall have not been obtained and such
approval or authorizations shall not have become a Final Order, but
all other conditions to Closing shall be fulfilled or shall be
capable of being fulfilled, then the Initial Termination Date will be
extended to February 28, 2001.
SECTION 8.2 EFFECT OF TERMINATION. If this Agreement is terminated pursuant to
Section 8.1, this Agreement shall be of no further force and effect and there
shall be no further liability hereunder on the part of any party or its
Affiliates, directors, officers, stockholders, agents or other
Representatives; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that (i) any fee payable under Section
8.3(a) is paid to SUG and (ii) no such termination shall relieve any party of
liability for any claims, damages or losses suffered by the other party as a
result of the negligent or willful failure of a party to perform any
obligations required to be performed by it hereunder on or prior to the date
of termination. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, the
provisions of Section 8.2, Sections 10.1 through 10.6 and Sections 10.8
through 10.11 of this Agreement shall survive any termination of this
Agreement.
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SECTION 8.3 TERMINATION FEE; EXPENSES.
(a) TERMINATION FEE. If this Agreement is terminated pursuant to Section
8.1(e), 8.1(g) or 8.1(h), then FAL shall pay to SUG promptly (but not
later than five business days after notice is received from FAL) an
amount equal to $1.5 million in cash.
(b) EXPENSES. The parties agree that the agreements contained in this
Section 8.3 are an integral part of the transactions contemplated by
this Agreement and constitute liquidated damages and not a penalty.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Section
8.3, if FAL fails to pay promptly to SUG the fee due under Section
8.3(a), in addition to any amounts paid or payable pursuant to
Section 8.3(a), FAL shall pay the costs and expenses (including legal
fees and expenses) in connection with any action, including the
filing of any lawsuit or other legal action, taken to collect
payment, together with interest on the amount of any unpaid fee
calculated using an annual percentage rate of interest equal to the
prime rate published in the WALL STREET JOURNAL on the date (or
preceding business day if such date is not a business day) such fee
was required to be paid, compounded on a daily basis using a 360-day
year.
ARTICLE IX
INDEMNIFICATION; REMEDIES
SECTION 9.1 DIRECTORS' AND OFFICERS' INDEMNIFICATION.
(a) INDEMNIFICATION AND INSURANCE. For a period of six years after the
Effective Time, the Surviving Corporation will indemnify and hold
harmless the present and former officers and directors of FAL and its
Subsidiaries (the "Indemnified Parties") in respect of acts or
omissions occurring prior to the Effective Time to the extent provided
under FAL's articles of organization and bylaws in effect on the date
hereof; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that if any claim or claims are asserted or
made within such six-year period, all rights to indemnification in
respect of such claims shall continue until the final disposition of
any and all such claims. For six years after the Effective Time, the
Surviving Corporation will use its reasonable best efforts to provide
officers' and directors' liability insurance in respect of acts or
omissions occurring prior to the Effective Time covering each such
person currently covered by FAL's officers' and directors' liability
insurance policy on terms with respect to coverage and amount no less
favorable than those of such policy in effect on the date hereof;
PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that in satisfying its obligation under this
Section, if the annual premiums of such insurance coverage exceed 200%
of the previous year's premiums, the Surviving Corporation will be
obligated to obtain a policy with the best coverage available, in the
reasonable judgment of the Board of Directors of the Surviving
Corporation for a cost not exceeding such amount.
(b) SUCCESSORS. In the event the Surviving Corporation or any of its
successors or assigns (i) consolidates with or merges into any other
Person and is not the continuing or surviving corporation or entity
of such consolidation or merger or (ii) transfers all or
substantially all of its properties and assets to any Person, then
and in either such case, proper provisions must be made so that the
successors and assigns of the Surviving Corporation will assume the
obligations set forth in this Section 9.1.
(c) SURVIVAL OF INDEMNIFICATION. To the fullest extent permitted by law,
from and after the Effective Time, all rights to indemnification as
of the date hereof in favor of the employees, agents, directors and
officers of any Acquired Company with respect to their activities as
such prior to the Effective Time, as provided in their respective
Organizational Documents in effect on the date hereof, or otherwise
in effect on the date hereof, will survive the Merger and will
continue in full force and effect except for amendments to make
changes permitted by law that would enhance the rights of past or
present officers and directors to indemnification or advancement of
expenses in respect of acts or omissions occurring prior to the
Effective Time for a period of not less than six years from the
Effective Time (or, in the case of matters occurring prior to the
Effective Time which have not been resolved prior to the sixth
anniversary of the Effective Time, until such matters are finally
resolved).
SECTION 9.2 REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. Each and every representation and
warranty of either party shall expire at, and be terminated and extinguished
with, the Effective Time.
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ARTICLE X
GENERAL PROVISIONS
SECTION 10.1 EXPENSES. Each of the parties will pay all costs and expenses of
its performance of and compliance with this Agreement, except (i) as provided
in Section 8.3 and as expressly provided otherwise herein, (ii) FAL shall pay
all fees and expenses of counsel for FAL, (iii) SUG will pay all real estate
transfer taxes and real estate recording fees, if any, including expenses of
counsel associated with real estate title, transfer and recording issues in
connection with the Merger, and all filing and application fees paid to
Governmental Bodies in connection with the Merger and (iv) SUG and FAL will
each pay half of the combined costs of printing and mailing to the FAL
stockholders the prospectus that is a part of the Registration Statement and
the FAL Proxy Statement.
SECTION 10.2 NOTICES. All notices, requests and other communications hereunder
shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been given upon receipt if
either (a) personally delivered, (b) sent by prepaid first class mail, and
registered or certified and a return receipt requested or (c) by facsimile
telecopier with completed transmission acknowledged:
if to SUG, to:
Southern Union Company
504 Lavaca Street, Suite 800
Austin, Texas 78701
Attention: Peter H. Kelley
President and Chief Operating Officer
Telecopier: (512) 477-3879
with a copy to:
Pennsylvania Enterprises, Inc.
One PEI Center
Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania 18711-0601
Attention: Thomas F. Karam
President and Chief Executive Officer
Telecopier: (570) 829-8900
and:
Hughes Hubbard & Reed LLP
One Battery Park Plaza
New York, New York 10004
Attention: Garett J. Albert
Telecopier: (212) 422-4726
if to FAL, to:
Fall River Gas Company
155 North Main Street
Fall River, Massachusetts 02722
Attention: Bradford J. Faxon
President and Chief Executive Officer
Telecopier: (508) 675-7811
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with a copy to:
Rich, May, Bilodeau & Flaherty, P.C.
176 Federal Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02110
Attention: Eric J. Krathwohl
Telecopier: (617) 556-3889
or at such other address or number as shall be given in writing by a party to
the other parties.
SECTION 10.3 ASSIGNMENT.This Agreement may not be assigned by any party hereto
without the prior written consent of the other parties hereto. Any assignment
in violation of the terms of this Agreement shall be null and void AB INITIO.
SECTION 10.4 SUCCESSOR BOUND. Subject to the provisions of Section 10.3, this
Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto
and their respective successors and permitted assigns.
SECTION 10.5 GOVERNING LAW; FORUM; CONSENT TO JURISDICTION. This Agreement
shall be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of the State of
New York except to the extent that the terms and consummation of the Merger
are subject to the DGCL or the MBCL in which case such laws shall govern. Each
party to this Agreement hereby irrevocably and unconditionally (i) consents to
submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the federal courts of the Southern
District of New York in the county of New York and the borough of Manhattan
and the jurisdiction of the federal courts of the District of Massachusetts in
the county of Suffolk and the city of Boston for any proceeding arising in
connection with this Agreement (and each such party agrees not to commence any
such proceeding, except in such courts), (ii) to the extent such party is not
a resident of the State of New York or the Commonwealth of Massachusetts,
agrees to appoint agents in the State of New York and the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts as such party's agents for acceptance of legal process in any
such proceeding against such party with the same legal force and validity as
if served upon such party personally within the State of New York or the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, respectively, and to notify promptly each other
party hereto of the name and address of each such agent, (iii) waives any
objection to the laying of venue of any such proceeding in the federal courts
of the Southern District of New York in the county of New York and the borough
of Manhattan or the federal courts of the District of Massachusetts in the
county of Suffolk and the city of Boston, and (iv) waives, and agrees not to
plead or to make, any claim that any such proceeding brought in any federal
court of the Southern District of New York or the District of Massachusetts
has been brought in an improper or otherwise inconvenient forum.
SECTION 10.6 WAIVER OF TRIAL BY JURY. EACH PARTY TO THIS AGREEMENT HEREBY
WAIVES TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY ACTION OR PROCEEDING TO WHICH ANY SUCH PARTY MAY
BE A PARTY ARISING OUT OF OR IN ANY WAY PERTAINING TO (i) THIS AGREEMENT, (ii)
THE MERGER, (iii) THE CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT OR (iv) ANY RELATED DOCUMENTS.
IT IS AGREED AND UNDERSTOOD THAT THIS WAIVER CONSTITUTES A WAIVER OF TRIAL BY
JURY OF ALL CLAIMS AGAINST ALL PARTIES WHO ARE PARTIES TO THIS AGREEMENT. THIS
WAIVER IS KNOWINGLY, WILLINGLY AND VOLUNTARILY MADE BY EACH PARTY HERETO, AND
EACH SUCH PARTY HEREBY REPRESENTS AND WARRANTS THAT NO REPRESENTATIONS OF FACT
OR OPINION HAVE BEEN MADE BY ANY PERSON TO INDUCE THIS WAIVER OR TRIAL BY JURY
OR TO IN ANY WAY MODIFY OR NULLIFY ITS EFFECT. EACH PARTY TO THIS AGREEMENT
FURTHER REPRESENTS AND WARRANTS THAT EACH SUCH PARTY HAS BEEN REPRESENTED IN
THE SIGNING OF THIS AGREEMENT AND IN THE MAKING OF THIS WAIVER BY INDEPENDENT
LEGAL COUNSEL, SELECTED OF EACH SUCH PARTY'S OWN FREE WILL, AND THAT EACH SUCH
PARTY HAS HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO DISCUSS THIS WAIVER WITH COUNSEL.
SECTION 10.7 COOPERATION; FURTHER DOCUMENTS.
(a) Each of the parties hereto agrees to use its reasonable best efforts
to take or cause to be taken all action, and to do or cause to be done
all things necessary, proper or advisable under applicable laws,
regulations or otherwise, to consummate and to make effective the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including, without
limitation, the timely performance of all actions and things
contemplated by this Agreement to be taken or done by each of the
parties hereto.
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(b) Each party shall cooperate with the other party in such other party's
discharge of the obligations hereunder, which shall include making
reasonably available to the other party such of its personnel as have
relevant information, with respect thereto.
SECTION 10.8 CONSTRUCTION OF AGREEMENT. The terms and provisions of this
Agreement represent the results of negotiations between the parties hereto and
their Representatives, each of which has been represented by counsel of its
own choosing, and neither of which has acted under duress or compulsion,
whether legal, economic or otherwise. Accordingly, the terms and provisions of
this Agreement shall be interpreted and construed in accordance with their
usual and customary meanings, and FAL and SUG hereby waive the application in
connection with the interpretation and construction of this Agreement of any
rule of law to the effect that ambiguous or conflicting terms or provisions
contained in this Agreement shall be interpreted or construed against the
party whose attorney prepared the executed draft or any earlier draft of this
Agreement.
SECTION 10.9 PUBLICITY; ORGANIZATIONAL AND OPERATIONAL ANNOUNCEMENTS. No party
hereto shall issue, make or cause the publication of any press release or
other announcement with respect to this Agreement or the transactions
contemplated hereby, or otherwise make any disclosures relating thereto,
without the consent of the other party, such consent not to be unreasonably
withheld or delayed; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that such consent shall not be
required where such release or announcement is required by applicable law or
the rules or regulations of a securities exchange, in which event the party so
required to issue such release or announcement shall endeavor, wherever
possible, to furnish an advance copy of the proposed release to the other
party.
SECTION 10.10 WAIVER. Except as otherwise expressly provided in this
Agreement, neither the failure nor any delay on the part of any party to
exercise any right, power or privilege hereunder shall operate as a waiver
thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise or waiver of any such right,
power or privilege preclude any other or further exercise thereof, or the
exercise of any other right, power or privilege available to each party at law
or in equity.
SECTION 10.11 PARTIES IN INTEREST. This Agreement (including the documents and
instruments referred to herein) is not intended to confer upon any Person,
other than the parties hereto and their successors and permitted assigns, any
rights or remedies hereunder, except that the parties hereto agree and
acknowledge that the agreements and covenants contained in Section 9.1 are
intended for the direct and irrevocable benefit of the Indemnified Parties
described therein and their respective heirs or legal representatives (each
such director or Indemnified Party, a "Third Party Beneficiary"), and that
each such Third Party Beneficiary, although not a party to this Agreement,
shall be and is a direct and irrevocable third party beneficiary of such
agreements and covenants and shall have the right to enforce such agreements
and covenants against the Surviving Corporation in all respects fully and to
the same extent as if such Third Party Beneficiary were a party hereto.
SECTION 10.12 SPECIFIC PERFORMANCE. The parties hereto agree that irreparable
damage would occur to a party in the event that any of the provisions of this
Agreement were not performed in accordance with their specific terms or were
otherwise breached. It is accordingly agreed that any party shall be entitled
to an injunction or injunctions to prevent breaches of this agreement by any
other party and to enforce specifically, to the fullest extent available, the
terms and provisions hereof, including each party's obligation to close, in
any court of the United States or any state having jurisdiction, this being in
addition to any other right or remedy to which any party is entitled at law or
in equity.
SECTION 10.13 SECTION AND PARAGRAPH HEADINGS. The section and paragraph
headings in this Agreement are for reference purposes only and shall not
affect in any way the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement.
SECTION 10.14 AMENDMENT. This Agreement may be amended only by an instrument
in writing executed by the parties hereto.
SECTION 10.15 ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement, the exhibits, annexes and
schedules hereto and the documents specifically referred to herein and the
Confidentiality Agreement constitute the entire agreement, understanding,
representations and warranties of the parties hereto with respect to the
subject matter hereof.
SECTION 10.16 COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed in one or more
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which
together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed and delivered this Agreement as
of the date first written above.
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<PAGE>
SOUTHERN UNION COMPANY
By: /s/ RONALD J. ENDRES
--------------------
Name: Ronald J. Endres
Title: Executive Vice President
FALL RIVER GAS COMPANY
By: /s/ BRADFORD J. FAXON
---------------------
Name: Bradford J. Faxon
Title: President and Chief Executive Officer
By: /s/ PETER H. THANAS
-------------------
Name: Peter H. Thanas
Title: Senior Vice President and Treasurer
A-37
<PAGE>
APPENDIX B
VOTING AGREEMENT
VOTING AGREEMENT, dated this 4th day of October, 1999, by and between SOUTHERN
UNION COMPANY, a Delaware corporation ("SUG"), and The Jarabek Family Limited
Partnership, Ronald J. Ferris, Bradford J. Faxon, Raymond H. Faxon, Cindy L.J.
Audette, Gilbert C. Oliveira, Jr. and Thomas H. Bilodeau (each a "Stockholder"
and collectively the "Stockholders").
RECITALS:
WHEREAS, the Stockholders currently beneficially own (as such term is used
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and
regulations issued thereunder) the shares of common stock, par value $.83 per
share ("Shares"), of Fall River Gas Company, a Massachusetts corporation
("FAL") shown on Schedule A.
WHEREAS, as a condition of entering into the Agreement of Merger, made as of
the date hereof, by and between SUG and FAL (the "Merger Agreement"), SUG has
requested that the Stockholders agree, and the Stockholders have agreed (i) to
enter into a voting agreement and (ii) to give SUG an irrevocable proxy,
coupled with an interest, to vote the Shares held by the Stockholders, in each
case as more fully set forth herein.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements set
forth herein, the parties hereby agree as follows:
1. AGREEMENT TO VOTE SHARES. Each Stockholder agrees during the term of this
Agreement to vote, or cause to be voted, the Shares shown opposite the
Stockholder's name on Schedule A hereto and any other Shares acquired
after the date hereof, in person or by proxy, in favor of the Merger, the
adoption and approval of the Merger Agreement and the approval of the
transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement at every meeting of the
stockholders of FAL at which such matters are considered and at every
adjournment thereof.
2. GRANT OF IRREVOCABLE PROXY. Each Stockholder hereby grants to SUG an
irrevocable proxy, which proxy is coupled with an interest because of the
consideration recited herein, to exercise, at any time and from time to
time, all rights and powers of the Stockholder with respect to the Shares
shown opposite the Stockholder's name on Schedule A hereto to vote, give
approvals, and receive and waive notices of meetings for the purpose of
securing the approval and adoption by the stockholders of FAL of the
Merger Agreement and the consummation of the transactions contemplated
thereby and to prevent any action that would prevent or hinder in any
material respect such approval or consummation. By giving this proxy each
Stockholder hereby revokes any other proxy granted by the Stockholder to
vote any of the Shares in a manner inconsistent with the foregoing grant.
The power and authority hereby conferred shall not be terminated by any
act of the Stockholder or by operation of law, by the dissolution of, by
lack of appropriate power or authority, or by the occurrence of any other
event or events and shall be binding upon all its successors and assigns.
If after the execution of this Agreement the Stockholder shall dissolve,
cease to have appropriate power or authority, or if any other such event
or events shall occur, SUG is nevertheless authorized and directed to
vote the Shares in accordance with the terms of this Agreement as if such
dissolution, lack of appropriate power or authority or other event or
events had not occurred and regardless of notice thereof.
3. NO OTHER GRANT OF PROXY. Each Stockholder will not, directly or
indirectly, grant any proxies or powers of attorney with respect to the
Shares shown opposite the Stockholder's name on Schedule A hereto or
acquired after the date hereof to any person in connection with its vote,
consent or other approval sought, in favor of the Merger (as defined in
the Merger Agreement), the adoption and approval of the Merger Agreement
and the approval of the transactions contemplated by the Merger
Agreement, other than as set forth in Sections 1 and 2 hereof.
4. TRANSFERS. Each Stockholder will not, nor will such Stockholder permit
any entity under such Stockholder's control to, sell, transfer, pledge,
assign or otherwise dispose of (including by gift) (collectively,
"Transfer"), or consent to any
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Transfer of, any Shares or any interest therein or enter into any
contract, option or other agreement or arrangement (including any profit
sharing or other derivative arrangement) with respect to the Transfer of,
any Shares or any interest therein to any person, unless prior to any
such Transfer the transferee of such Shares agrees to be subject to the
provisions of this Agreement.
5. NO SOLICITATION. Until the Merger is consummated or the Merger Agreement
is terminated in accordance with its terms, each Stockholder shall not,
nor shall it permit any investment banker, attorney or other advisor or
representative of such Stockholder to, directly or indirectly through
another person, solicit, initiate, encourage or otherwise facilitate any
takeover proposal.
6. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF THE STOCKHOLDERS. Each Stockholder as to
such Stockholder hereby represents and warrants to, and covenants with,
SUG as follows:
(a) The Stockholder beneficially owns with power to vote the number of
Shares shown opposite the Stockholder's name on Schedule A free and
clear of any and all claims, liens, charges, encumbrances, covenants,
conditions, restrictions, voting trust arrangements, options and
adverse claims or rights whatsoever, except as granted hereby or as
would have no adverse effect on this Agreement and/or the proxy
granted hereby. The Stockholder does not own of record or
beneficially any shares of capital stock of FAL or other securities
representing or convertible into shares of capital stock of FAL
except as set forth in the preceding sentence, Shares purchased after
the date hereof which shall become subject to this Agreement and the
proxy granted hereby, and Shares which any of them may have the right
to purchase upon exercise of options or warrants;
(b) The Stockholder has the full right, power and authority to enter into
this Agreement and to grant an irrevocable proxy to SUG with respect
to the Shares; there are no options, warrants, calls, commitments or
agreements of any nature whatsoever pursuant to which any person will
have the right to purchase or otherwise acquire the Shares owned by
the Stockholder except as would, if exercised, require such purchaser
or acquiror to abide by this Agreement and the proxy granted hereby
with respect thereto; except as provided in this Agreement, the
Stockholder has not granted or agreed to grant any proxy or entered
into any voting trust, vote pooling or other agreement with respect
to the right to vote or give consents or approval of any kind as to
the Shares which proxy, trust, pooling or other agreement remains in
effect as of the date hereof and is in conflict with this Agreement
or the proxy granted hereby;
(c) The Stockholder is not a party to, subject to or bound by any
agreement or judgment, order, writ, prohibition, injunction or decree
of any court or other governmental body that would prevent the
execution, delivery or performance of this Agreement by the
Stockholder or the exercise of proxy rights by SUG with respect to the
Shares;
(d) This Agreement has been duly and validly executed and delivered by the
Stockholder and constitutes a legal, valid and binding obligation of
the Stockholder, enforceable in accordance with its terms, subject
only to (i) the effect of bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or
moratorium laws or other laws generally affecting the enforceability
of creditors' rights and (ii) general equitable principles which may
limit the right to obtain specific performance or other equitable
remedies; and
(e) The Stockholder will take all commercially reasonable action necessary
in order that its representations and warranties set forth in this
Agreement shall remain true and correct.
7. STOCKHOLDERS' COVENANTS. Each Stockholder shall not enter into any voting
trust agreement, give any proxy or other right to vote the Shares or take
any action that would limit the rights of any holder of the Shares to
exercise fully the right to vote such Shares that would be in conflict
with this Agreement or the proxy granted hereby.
8. SEVERABILITY. If any term, provision, covenant or restriction of this
Agreement is held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, void
or unenforceable, the remainder of the terms, provisions, covenants and
restrictions of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect and
shall in no way be affected, impaired or invalidated.
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9. ASSIGNMENT. This Agreement shall not be assigned or delegated by any
party hereto, except that SUG may transfer its rights hereunder to any
wholly-owned subsidiary of SUG, and except that any assignment of any of
the Shares by any Stockholder shall require that such Shares remain
subject to this Agreement and the proxy granted hereby. This Agreement
shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of SUG and its successors
and assigns and shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the
Stockholders and their permitted successors and any permitted assigns.
10. SPECIFIC PERFORMANCE. The parties hereto acknowledge that damages would
be an inadequate remedy for a breach of this Agreement and that the
obligations of the parties hereto shall be specifically enforceable. In
addition to any other legal or equitable remedies to which SUG would be
entitled, in the event of a breach or a threatened breach of this
Agreement by any Stockholder, SUG shall have the right to obtain
equitable relief, including (but not limited to) an injunction or order
of specific performance of the terms hereof from a court of competent
jurisdiction.
11. AMENDMENTS. This Agreement may not be modified, amended, altered or
supplemented except upon the execution and delivery of a written agreement
executed by all of the parties hereto.
12. NOTICES. All notices, requests, claims, demands and other communications
hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed given if delivered
personally, by cable, telegram or telex, or mailed by a party hereto by
registered or certified mail (return receipt requested) or by a
nationally recognized overnight mail deliver service, to the other party
at the following addresses (or such other address for a party as shall be
specified by like notice):
if to SUG: Southern Union Company
504 Lavaca Street, Suite 800
Austin, Texas 78701
Attention: Peter H. Kelley
President and Chief
Operating Officer
Fax Number: (512) 477-3879
with a copy to:
Pennsylvania Enterprises, Inc.
One PEI Center
Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania 18711-0601
Attn: Thomas F. Karam
President and Chief
Executive Officer
Fax Number: (570) 829-8900
and:
Hughes Hubbard & Reed LLP
One Battery Park Plaza
New York, New York 10004
Attn: Garett J. Albert, Esq.
Fax Number: (212) 422-4726
if to any Stockholder, to such Stockholder:
c/o Fall River Gas Company
155 North Main Street
Fall River, Massachusetts 02722
Fax Number: (508) 675-7811
with a copy to:
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Rich, May, Bilodeau & Flaherty, P.C.
176 Federal Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02110
Attn: Eric J. Krathwohl, Esq.
Fax Number: (617) 556-3889
Any party may change its address for notice by notice so given.
13. GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed in
accordance with, the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts regardless
of the laws that might otherwise govern under applicable principles of
conflicts of laws.
14. COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each
of which shall be an original, but all of which together shall constitute
one and the same agreement.
15. TERM. This Agreement shall terminate, and the proxy granted herein shall
cease to be irrevocable, upon the consummation of the Merger in accordance
with and as defined in the Merger Agreement or such other expiration or
termination of the Merger Agreement in accordance with its terms, and
thereafter this Agreement shall be of no further force or effect and there
shall be no liability on the part of any party with respect thereto except
nothing herein will relieve any party from liability for any prior breach
hereof.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, SUG has caused this Agreement to be duly executed, and each
Stockholder has duly executed this Agreement, on the day and year first above
written.
SOUTHERN UNION COMPANY
By: /s/ RONALD J. ENDRES
--------------------
Name: Ronald J. Endres
Title: Executive Vice President
THE JARABEK FAMILY LIMITED PARTNERSHIP
/s/ BARBARA N. JARABEK
----------------------
Barbara N. Jarabek, General Partner
/s/ RONALD J. FERRIS
--------------------
Ronald J. Ferris
/s/ BRADFORD J. FAXON
---------------------
Bradford J. Faxon
/s/ RAYMOND H. FAXON
--------------------
Raymond H. Faxon
/s/ CINDY L.J. AUDETTE
----------------------
Cindy L.J. Audette
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/s/ GILBERT C. OLIVEIRA, JR.
----------------------------
Gilbert C. Oliveira, Jr.
/s/ THOMAS H. BILODEAU
----------------------
Thomas H. Bilodeau
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SCHEDULE A
Stockholder Number of Shares
----------- ----------------
The Jarabek Family Limited Partnership 295,710
Ronald J. Ferris 145,059
Bradford J. Faxon 40,306
Raymond H. Faxon 57,370
Cindy L.J. Audette 13,190
Gilbert C. Oliveira, Jr. 12,539
Thomas H. Bilodeau 9,006
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APPENDIX C
AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER
AMONG
SOUTHERN UNION COMPANY,
GUS ACQUISITION CORPORATION
AND
PROVIDENCE ENERGY CORPORATION
DATED AS OF NOVEMBER 15, 1999
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE
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<S> <C> <C>
ARTICLE I DEFINITIONS.........................................................................................1
Section 1.1 Certain Defined Terms...............................................................................1
Section 1.2 Other Defined Terms.................................................................................6
ARTICLE II THE MERGER; OTHER TRANSACTIONS......................................................................6
Section 2.1 The Merger..........................................................................................6
Section 2.2 Effective Time of the Merger........................................................................7
Section 2.3 Closing.............................................................................................7
Section 2.4 Articles of Incorporation; Bylaws...................................................................7
Section 2.5 Directors and Officers..............................................................................7
Section 2.6 Other Transactions..................................................................................7
Section 2.7 Certificate of Incorporation; Bylaws................................................................7
Section 2.8 Directors and Officers..............................................................................7
ARTICLE III CONVERSION OF SHARES................................................................................8
Section 3.1 Effect of the Merger................................................................................8
Section 3.2 Exchange of PVY Common Stock Certificates...........................................................8
Section 3.3 PVY Options; PVY Performance Shares.................................................................9
ARTICLE IV REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF SUG..............................................................10
Section 4.1 Organization, Existence and Qualification..........................................................10
Section 4.2 Authority Relative to this Agreement and Binding Effect............................................10
Section 4.3 Governmental Approvals.............................................................................10
Section 4.4 Public Utility Holding Company Status; Regulation as a Public Utility..............................11
Section 4.5 Legal Proceedings; Orders..........................................................................11
Section 4.6 Brokers............................................................................................11
Section 4.7 Disclaimer of Representations and Warranties.......................................................11
ARTICLE V REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF PVY..............................................................11
Section 5.1 Organization, Existence and Qualification..........................................................11
Section 5.2 Capitalization.....................................................................................12
Section 5.3 Subsidiaries; Investments..........................................................................12
Section 5.4 Authority Relative to this Agreement and Binding Effect............................................12
Section 5.5 Governmental Approvals.............................................................................12
Section 5.6 Public Utility Holding Company Status; Regulation as a Public Utility..............................12
Section 5.7 Compliance with Legal Requirements; Governmental Authorizations....................................13
Section 5.8 Legal Proceedings; Orders..........................................................................13
Section 5.9 SEC Documents......................................................................................13
Section 5.10 Taxes..............................................................................................14
Section 5.11 Intellectual Property..............................................................................14
Section 5.12 Title to Assets....................................................................................14
Section 5.13 Indebtedness.......................................................................................14
Section 5.14 Machinery and Equipment............................................................................14
Section 5.15 Contracts..........................................................................................14
Section 5.16 Insurance..........................................................................................14
Section 5.17 Employees..........................................................................................15
Section 5.18 Employee Benefit Plans.............................................................................15
Section 5.19 Environmental Matters..............................................................................17
Section 5.20 No Material Adverse Change.........................................................................17
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Section 5.21 Brokers............................................................................................17
Section 5.22 PVY Stock Rights Agreement.........................................................................17
Section 5.23 Regulatory Proceedings.............................................................................17
Section 5.24 Vote Required......................................................................................18
Section 5.25 Opinion of Financial Advisor.......................................................................18
Section 5.26 Disclaimer of Representations and Warranties.......................................................18
ARTICLE VI COVENANTS..........................................................................................18
Section 6.1 Covenants of PVY...................................................................................18
(a) Conduct of the Business Prior to the Closing Date..................................................18
(b) Customer Notifications.............................................................................20
(c) Access to the Acquired Companies' Offices, Properties and Records; Updating Information............20
(d) Governmental Approvals; Third Party Consents.......................................................21
(e) Dividends..........................................................................................21
(f) Issuance of Securities.............................................................................21
(g) Accounting.........................................................................................21
(h) No Shopping........................................................................................21
(i) Solicitation of Proxies............................................................................23
(j) PVY Shareholders' Approval.........................................................................23
(k) Financing Activities...............................................................................23
(l) PVY Disclosure Schedule............................................................................23
(m) Redemption of ProvGas Preferred Stock..............................................................23
(n) Amendment of ProvGas Indenture.....................................................................23
Section 6.2 Covenants of SUG...................................................................................24
(a) Governmental Approvals; Third Party Consents.......................................................24
(b) Employees; Benefits................................................................................24
(c) WARN...............................................................................................25
d) Directors..........................................................................................25
(e) Officers of PVY Division of SUG....................................................................25
(f) Charitable Contributions...........................................................................26
(g) Corporate Offices..................................................................................26
(h) Collective Bargaining Agreements...................................................................26
(i) SUG Disclosure Schedule............................................................................26
Section 6.3 Additional Agreements..............................................................................26
(a) The Proxy Statement................................................................................26
(b) Further Assurances.................................................................................27
(c) Financial Statements to be Provided................................................................27
ARTICLE VII CONDITIONS.........................................................................................27
Section 7.1 Conditions to SUG's Obligation to Effect the Merger................................................27
(a) Representations and Warranties True as of the Closing Date.........................................28
(b) Compliance with Agreements.........................................................................28
(c) Certificate........................................................................................28
(d) Governmental Approvals.............................................................................28
(e) Third Party Consents...............................................................................28
(f) Injunctions........................................................................................28
(g) Resignations.......................................................................................28
(h) Shareholder Approvals..............................................................................28
(i) Tax Good Standing..................................................................................28
(j) Conversion of Options..............................................................................28
Section 7.2 Conditions to PVY's Obligations to Effect the Mergers..............................................28
(a) Representations and Warranties True as of the Closing Date.........................................28
(b) Compliance with Agreements.........................................................................29
(c) Certificate........................................................................................29
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(d) Governmental Approvals.............................................................................29
(e) Injunctions........................................................................................29
(f) Shareholder Approvals..............................................................................29
ARTICLE VIII TERMINATION........................................................................................29
Section 8.1 Termination Rights.................................................................................29
Section 8.2 Effect of Termination..............................................................................30
Section 8.3 Termination Fee; Expenses..........................................................................30
(a) Termination Fee....................................................................................30
(b) Expenses...........................................................................................30
ARTICLE IX INDEMNIFICATION; REMEDIES..........................................................................30
Section 9.1 Directors' and Officer's Indemnification...........................................................30
(a) Indemnification and Insurance......................................................................30
(b) Successors.........................................................................................31
(c) Survival of Indemnification........................................................................31
Section 9.2 Representations and Warranties.....................................................................31
ARTICLE X GENERAL PROVISIONS.................................................................................31
Section 10.1 Expenses...........................................................................................31
Section 10.2 Notices............................................................................................31
Section 10.3 Assignment.........................................................................................32
Section 10.4 Successor Bound....................................................................................32
Section 10.5 Governing Law; Forum; Consent to Jurisdiction......................................................32
Section 10.6 Waiver of Trial By Jury............................................................................32
Section 10.7 Cooperation; Further Documents.....................................................................33
Section 10.8 Construction of Agreement..........................................................................33
Section 10.9 Publicity; Organizational and Operational Announcements............................................33
Section 10.10 Waiver.............................................................................................33
Section 10.11 Parties in Interest................................................................................33
Section 10.12 Specific Performance...............................................................................33
Section 10.13 Section and Paragraph Headings.....................................................................33
Section 10.14 Amendment..........................................................................................34
Section 10.15 Entire Agreement...................................................................................34
Section 10.16 Counterparts.......................................................................................34
SCHEDULES:
PVY Disclosure Schedule
SUG Disclosure Schedule
Schedule 6.1(n)
</TABLE>
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AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER
This AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER (this "Agreement") is made as of the 15th day
of November, 1999, among SOUTHERN UNION COMPANY, a Delaware corporation ("SUG"),
GUS ACQUISITION CORPORATION, a Rhode Island corporation and a wholly-owned
subsidiary of SUG ("Newco"), and PROVIDENCE ENERGY CORPORATION, a Rhode Island
corporation ("PVY").
RECITALS
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of each of SUG, Newco and PVY has approved and
deems it advisable and in the best interests of their respective shareholders to
consummate the merger of Newco with and into PVY upon the terms and subject to
the conditions set forth herein; and
WHEREAS, in furtherance thereof, the Board of Directors of each of SUG, Newco
and PVY has approved this Agreement and the merger (the "Merger") of Newco with
and into PVY, with PVY being the surviving corporation in the Merger;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and the mutual covenants and
agreements herein contained, and intending to be legally bound hereby, SUG,
Newco and PVY hereby agree as follows:
ARTICLE I
DEFINITIONS
SECTION 1.1 CERTAIN DEFINED TERMS. For purposes of this Agreement, the following
terms have the meanings specified or referred to in this Article I (such
definitions to be equally applicable to both the singular and plural forms of
the terms defined):
"ACQUIRED COMPANIES"--PVY and its Subsidiaries, collectively, and each, an
"Acquired Company."
"AFFILIATE"--with respect to any Person, any other Person that directly, or
through one or more intermediaries, controls or is controlled by or is
under common control with such first Person. As used in this definition,
"control" (including with correlative meanings, "controlled by" and "under
common control with") shall mean possession, directly or indirectly, of
power to direct or cause the direction of management or policies (whether
through ownership of securities or partnership or other ownership
interests, by contract or otherwise).
"APPLICABLE CONTRACT"--any Contract (a) under which any Acquired Company
has any rights, (b) under which any Acquired Company has any obligation or
liability, or (c) by which any Acquired Company or any of the assets owned
or used by it is bound.
"CERCLA"--the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and
Liability Act of 1980, as amended.
"CLOSING DATE"--the date on which the Closing actually takes place.
"CONTRACT"--any agreement, contract, document, instrument, obligation,
promise or undertaking (whether written or oral) that is legally binding.
"DGCL"--the Delaware General Corporation Law.
"ENCUMBRANCE"--any charge, adverse claim, lien, mortgage, pledge, security
interest or other encumbrance.
"ENVIRONMENT"--soil, land surface or subsurface strata, surface waters
(including navigable waters, ocean waters, streams, ponds, drainage basins,
and wetlands), groundwaters, drinking water supply, stream sediments,
ambient air (including indoor air), plant and animal life, and any other
environmental medium or natural resource.
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"ENVIRONMENTAL LAW"--any applicable Legal Requirement that requires or
relates to:
(a) advising appropriate authorities, employees, and the public
of intended or actual releases of pollutants or hazardous
substances or materials, violations of discharge limits, or
other prohibitions and of the commencements of activities, such
as resource extraction or construction, that could have
significant impact on the Environment;
(b) preventing or reducing to acceptable levels the release of
pollutants or hazardous substances or materials into the
Environment;
(c) reducing the quantities, preventing the release, or minimizing the
hazardous characteristics of wastes that are generated;
(d) reducing to acceptable levels the risks inherent in the
transportation of hazardous substances, pollutants, oil, or other
potentially harmful substances; or
(e) making responsible parties pay private parties, or groups of them,
for damages done to their health by reason of Releases of
Hazardous Materials or to the Environment, or permitting
self-appointed representatives of the public interest to recover
for injuries done to public assets or for damages to natural
resources.
"ERISA"--the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended,
or any successor law, and regulations and rules issued pursuant to that act
or any successor law.
"EXCHANGE ACT"--the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or any
successor law, and regulations and rules issued by the SEC pursuant to that
act or any successor law.
"FACILITIES"--any real property, leaseholds, or other interests currently
or formerly owned or operated by any Acquired Company and any buildings,
plants, structures, or equipment (including motor vehicles, tank cars, and
rolling stock) currently or formerly owned or operated by any Acquired
Company.
"FERC"--the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission or any successor agency.
"FINAL ORDER"--an action by the relevant Governmental Body that has not
been reversed, stayed, enjoined, set aside, annulled or suspended, with
respect to which any waiting period prescribed by law before the
transactions contemplated hereby may be consummated has expired, and as to
which all conditions to the consummation of such transactions prescribed by
law, regulation or order have been satisfied.
"GAAP"--generally accepted United States accounting principles, applied on
a consistent basis.
"GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORIZATION"--any approval, consent, license, franchise,
certificate of public convenience and necessity, permit, waiver or other
authorization issued, granted, given, or otherwise made available by or
under the authority of any Governmental Body or pursuant to any Legal
Requirement.
"GOVERNMENTAL BODY"--any:
(a) nation, state, county, city, town, village, district or other
jurisdiction of any nature;
(b) federal, state, county, local, municipal or other government;
(c) governmental or quasi-governmental authority of any nature
(including any governmental agency, branch, department, official
or entity and any court or other tribunal); or
(d) body exercising, or entitled to exercise, any administrative,
executive, judicial, legislative, police, regulatory or taxing
authority or power of any nature.
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"HAZARDOUS ACTIVITY"--the distribution, generation, handling, importing,
management, manufacturing, processing, production, refinement, Release,
storage, transfer, transportation, treatment, or use (including any
withdrawal or other use of groundwater) of Hazardous Materials in, on,
under, about, or from the Facilities or any part thereof into the
Environment, any other act, business, operation, or thing that unreasonably
increases the danger, or risk of danger, or poses an unreasonable risk of
harm to persons or property on or off the Facilities in any material
respect.
"HAZARDOUS MATERIALS"--any waste or other substance that is listed,
defined, designated, or classified as, or otherwise determined to be,
hazardous, radioactive, or toxic or a pollutant or a contaminant under or
pursuant to any Environmental Law, including any admixture or solution
thereof, and specifically including petroleum and all derivatives thereof
or synthetic substitutes therefor and asbestos or asbestos-containing
materials.
"HSR ACT"--the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as
amended, or any successor law, and regulations and rules issued by the U.S.
Department of Justice or the Federal Trade Commission pursuant to that act
or any successor law.
"IRC"--the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
"IRS"--the Internal Revenue Service or any successor agency.
"KNOWLEDGE"--an individual will be deemed to have "Knowledge" of a
particular fact or other matter if such individual is actually aware of
such fact or other matter. A Person (other than an individual) will be
deemed to have "Knowledge" of a particular fact or other matter if any
individual who is serving as a director or officer of such Person or any
material Subsidiary of it or other employee listed in Section 1.1 of the
PVY Disclosure Schedule has actual knowledge of such fact or other matter.
"LEGAL REQUIREMENT"--any federal, state, county, local, municipal, foreign,
international, multinational, or other administrative order, constitution,
law, ordinance, principle of common law, regulation, rule, tariff,
franchise agreement, statute or treaty.
"MATERIAL CONTRACT"--a Contract involving a total commitment by or to any
party thereto of at least $125,000 on an annual basis or at least $500,000
on its remaining term which cannot be terminated on less than sixty (60)
days' notice, without penalty or additional cost to the Acquired Company as
the terminating party.
"ORDER"--any award, decision, decree, injunction, judgment, order, writ,
ruling, subpoena, or verdict entered, issued, made, or rendered by any
court, administrative agency, or other Governmental Body or by any
arbitrator.
"ORDINARY COURSE OF BUSINESS"--an action taken by a Person will be deemed
to have been taken in the "Ordinary Course of Business" only if:
(a) such action and authorization therefor is consistent with the past
practices of such Person and is taken in the ordinary course of
the normal day-to-day operations of such Person; and
(b) such action is not required by law to be authorized by the board
of directors (or similar authority) of such Person or of such
Person's parent company (if any).
"ORGANIZATIONAL DOCUMENTS"--(a) the articles or certificate of
incorporation or organization and the bylaws of a corporation; (b) the
partnership agreement and any statement of partnership of a general
partnership; (c) the limited partnership agreement and the certificate of
limited partnership of a limited partnership; (d) the certificate of
formation and the members, operating or similar agreement of a limited
liability company; (e) any charter or similar document adopted or filed in
connection with the creation, formation or organization of a Person; and
(f) any amendment to any of the foregoing.
"PBGC"--the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation.
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"PERSON"--any individual, corporation (including any non-profit
corporation), general or limited partnership, limited liability company,
joint venture, estate, trust, association, organization, labor union,
organized group of persons, entity of any other type, or Governmental Body.
"PROCEEDING"--any action, arbitration, hearing, litigation or suit (whether
civil, criminal, administrative, investigative, or informal) commenced,
brought, conducted, or heard by or before, or otherwise involving, any
Governmental Body or arbitrator.
"PROVGAS PREFERRED STOCK"--the 8.70% redeemable cumulative preferred stock,
par value $100.00 per share, of ProvGas.
"PUHCA"--the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935, as amended, or any
successor law, and regulations and rules issued by the SEC pursuant to that
act or any successor law.
"PVY AUDITED FINANCIALS"--the PVY Balance Sheet, the audited consolidated
statement of income of the Acquired Companies for the year ended September
30, 1999, the audited consolidated statement of cash flows of the Acquired
Companies for the year ended September 30, 1999, the consolidated
statements of capitalization of the Acquired Companies at September 30,
1999, the consolidated statements of changes in common stockholders'
investment of the Acquired Companies for the year ended September 30, 1999
(in each case, including the notes thereto), collectively.
"PVY BALANCE SHEET"--the audited consolidated balance sheet of the Acquired
Companies at September 30, 1999 (including the notes thereto), provided by
PVY to SUG as part of the PVY Financial Statements.
"PVY BENEFIT PLANS"--all employee retirement, welfare, stock option, stock
ownership, deferred compensation, bonus or other benefit plans, agreements,
practices, policies, programs, or arrangements, that are applicable to any
employee, director or consultant of the Acquired Companies or maintained by
or contributed to by any of the Acquired Companies.
"PVY COMMON STOCK"--the common stock, par value $1.00 per share, of PVY.
"PVY DISCLOSURE SCHEDULE"--the disclosure schedule delivered by PVY to SUG
concurrently with the execution and delivery of this Agreement.
"PVY MATERIAL ADVERSE EFFECT"--a material adverse effect (i) on the
business, financial condition or results of operations of PVY and its
Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, or (ii) on the ability of PVY and its
Subsidiaries to consummate the Mergers in accordance with this Agreement.
"PVY PEIP"--the Providence Energy Corporation 1992 Performance and Equity
Incentive Plan.
"PVY PERFORMANCE SHARE"--a phantom share awarded under and subject to the
terms of the PVY Performance Share Plan and having a value equal to the
fair market value of a share of PVY Common Stock.
"PVY PERFORMANCE SHARE PLAN"--the Providence Energy Corporation Performance
Share Plan.
"PVY PERMITTED LIENS"--Encumbrances securing Taxes, assessments,
governmental charges or levies, or the claims of materialmen, mechanics,
carriers and like persons, all of which are not yet due and payable or
which are being contested in good faith; Encumbrances (other than any
Encumbrance imposed by ERISA) incurred on deposits made in the Ordinary
Course of Business in connection with worker's compensation, unemployment
insurance or other types of social security; the Encumbrances created by
and the Encumbrances permitted under the Indenture dated as of January 1,
1922 between ProvGas and State Street Bank and Trust Company (successor to
Rhode Island Hospital Trust Company), as Trustee, as amended or
supplemented from time to time (the "ProvGas Indenture"); in the case of
leased real property, Encumbrances (not attributable to an Acquired Company
as lessee) affecting the landlord's (and any underlying landlord's)
interest in any leased real property; Encumbrances in respect of judgments
or awards with respect to which PVY or one of its Subsidiaries shall in
good faith currently be prosecuting an appeal or other proceeding for
review and with respect to which PVY or such Subsidiary shall have secured
a stay of execution pending such appeal or such proceeding for review;
PROVIDED that PVY or such Subsidiary shall have set aside on its books
adequate reserves with
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respect thereto; and such other Encumbrances which are not, individually or
in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a PVY Material Adverse Effect.
"PVY RESTRICTED STOCK"--the shares of PVY Common Stock granted under and
subject to the terms of the PVY PEIP.
"RELATED DOCUMENTS"--any Contract provided for in this Agreement to be
entered into by one or more of the parties hereto or their respective
Subsidiaries in connection with the Mergers.
"RELEASE"--any spilling, leaking, emitting, discharging, depositing,
escaping, leaching, dumping, or other releasing into the Environment,
whether intentional or unintentional.
"REPRESENTATIVE"--with respect to a particular Person, any director,
officer, employee, agent, consultant, advisor, or other representative of
such Person, including legal counsel, accountants, and financial advisors.
"RIBCA"--the Rhode Island Business Corporation Act.
"SEC"--the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or any
successor agency.
"SECURITIES ACT"--the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any successor
law, and regulations and rules issued by the SEC pursuant to that act or
any successor law.
"SUBSIDIARY"--with respect to any Person (the "Owner"), any Person of which
securities or other interests having the power to elect a majority of that
other Person's board of directors or similar governing body, or otherwise
having the power to direct the business and policies of that corporation or
other Person (other than securities or other interests having such power
only upon the happening of a contingency that has not occurred) are held by
the Owner or one or more of its Subsidiaries; when used without reference
to a particular Person, "Subsidiary" means a Subsidiary of PVY.
"SUG DISCLOSURE SCHEDULE"--the disclosure schedule delivered by SUG to PVY
concurrently with the execution and delivery of this Agreement.
"SUG MATERIAL ADVERSE EFFECT"--a material adverse effect (i) on the
business, financial condition or results of operations of SUG and its
Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, or (ii) on the ability of SUG and Newco to
consummate the Mergers in accordance with this Agreement.
"RELATED DOCUMENTS"--any Contract provided for in this Agreement to be
entered into by one or more of the parties hereto or their respective
Subsidiaries in connection with the Mergers.
"TAX"--any tax (including any income tax, capital gains tax, value-added
tax, sales and use tax, transfer tax, franchise tax, payroll tax,
withholding tax or property tax), levy, assessment, tariff, duty (including
any customs duty), deficiency, franchise fee or payment, payroll tax,
utility tax, gross receipts tax or other fee or payment, and any related
charge or amount (including any fine, penalty, interest or addition to
tax), imposed, assessed or collected by or under the authority of any
Governmental Body or payable pursuant to any tax-sharing agreement or any
other Contract relating to the sharing or payment of any such tax, levy,
assessment, tariff, duty, deficiency or fee.
"TAX RETURN"--any return (including any information return), report,
statement, schedule, notice, form, or other document or information filed
with or submitted to, or required to be filed with or submitted to, any
Governmental Body in connection with the determination, assessment,
collection, or payment of any Tax or in connection with the administration,
implementation, or enforcement of or compliance with any Legal Requirement
relating to any Tax, including any amendment thereto.
"THREATENED"--a claim, Proceeding, dispute, action, or other matter will be
deemed to have been "Threatened" if any demand or statement has been made
(orally or in writing) or any notice has been given (orally or in writing)
or if any other event has occurred or any other circumstance exists, that
would lead a director or officer of a comparable gas distribution company
to conclude that such a claim, Proceeding, dispute, action, or other matter
is likely to be asserted, commenced, taken or otherwise pursued in the
future.
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SECTION 1.2 OTHER DEFINED TERMS. In addition to the terms defined in Section
1.1, certain other terms are defined elsewhere in this Agreement as indicated
below and, whenever such terms are used in this Agreement, they shall have
their respective defined meanings.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TERM SECTION
---- -------
<S> <C>
Acquired Company Option Plans 3.3
Agreement Introductory Paragraph
Attleboro 2.6
Attleboro Merger 2.6
Business Combination 6.1(h)(4)
Certificates 3.2(b)
Closing 2.3
Confidentiality Agreement 6.1(c)(1)
Effective Time 2.2
Employees 6.2(b)
Final Surviving Corporation 2.6
Indemnified Parties 9.1(a)
Initial Termination Date 8.1(i)
MBCL 2.6
Merger Recitals
Merger Consideration 3.1(a)
Mergers 2.6
Newco Introductory Paragraph
Owner 1.1
Paying Agent 3.2(a)
ProvGas 2.6
ProvGas Indenture 1.1
ProvGas Merger 2.6
Proxy Statement 6.3(a)
PVY Introductory Paragraph
PVY Commonly Controlled Entity 5.18(a)(4)
PVY Financial Statements 5.9
PVY Meeting 6.1(j)(1)
PVY Merger 2.6
PVY Options 3.3
PVY Rights 3.1(a)
PVY SEC Documents 5.9
PVY Shareholders' Approval 5.24
PVY Stock Rights Agreements 3.1(a)
SUG Introductory Paragraph
Superior Proposal 6.1(h)(4)
Surviving Corporation 2.1
Third Party Beneficiary 10.11
WARN 6.2(c)
</TABLE>
ARTICLE II
THE MERGER; OTHER TRANSACTIONS
SECTION 2.1 THE MERGER. Upon the terms and subject to the conditions of this
Agreement, at the Effective Time, Newco will be merged with and into PVY in
accordance with the laws of the State of Rhode Island. As a result of the
Merger, the separate corporate existence of Newco shall cease and PVY will be
the surviving corporation in the Merger (the "Surviving Corporation") and will
continue its corporate existence under the laws of the State of Rhode Island.
The Merger will have
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the effect as provided in the applicable provisions of the RIBCA. Without
limiting the generality of the foregoing, upon the Merger, all the property,
rights, privileges, immunities, powers and franchises of Newco and PVY will
vest in the Surviving Corporation and all obligations, duties, debts and
liabilities of PVY and Newco will be the obligations, duties, debts and
liabilities of the Surviving Corporation.
SECTION 2.2 EFFECTIVE TIME OF THE MERGER. On the Closing Date, with respect to
the Merger, a duly executed Articles of Merger complying with the requirements
of the RIBCA will be filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Rhode
Island. The Merger will become effective upon the issuance of a certificate of
merger by the Secretary of State of the State of Rhode Island (the "Effective
Time").
SECTION 2.3 CLOSING. Unless this Agreement has been terminated and the
transactions contemplated herein have been abandoned pursuant to Article VIII
hereof, the closing of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (the
"Closing") will take place at 10:00 a.m., Eastern Time, on the Closing Date to
be specified by the parties, which shall be no later than the tenth business
day after satisfaction or, if permissible, waiver of all of the conditions set
forth in Article VII hereof (other than Sections 7.1(a), 7.1(b), 7.1(c),
7.1(f), 7.1(g), 7.2(a), 7.2(b), 7.2(c) and 7.2(e), which shall be satisfied or
waived on the Closing Date) at the offices of Hughes Hubbard & Reed LLP, New
York, counsel to SUG, unless another date or place is agreed to in writing by
the parties hereto.
SECTION 2.4 ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION; BYLAWS. Pursuant to the Merger, (i) the
Articles of Incorporation of the Surviving Corporation shall be amended and
restated at and as of the Effective Time to be identical to the Articles of
Incorporation of Newco, as in effect immediately prior to the Effective Time,
until thereafter amended as provided by law, except that Article 1 of the
Articles of Incorporation shall be changed so that the name of the Surviving
Corporation shall be Providence Energy Corporation and (ii) the Bylaws of the
Surviving Corporation shall be amended and restated at and as of the Effective
Time to be identical to the Bylaws of Newco, as in effect immediately prior to
the Effective Time, until thereafter amended as provided by law, except that
the Bylaws shall be changed so that the name of the Surviving Corporation
shall be Providence Energy Corporation.
SECTION 2.5 DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS. The directors and officers of PVY
immediately prior to the Effective Time will be the directors and officers of
the Surviving Corporation, each to hold office in accordance with the Articles
of Incorporation and Bylaws of the Surviving Corporation.
SECTION 2.6 OTHER TRANSACTIONS. Immediately after the Effective Time, PVY
shall adopt an agreement and plan of merger pursuant to which North Attleboro
Gas Company ("Attleboro"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of PVY, shall merge with
and into PVY on the Closing Date, with PVY being the surviving corporation, by
complying with the requirements of the Massachusetts Business Corporation Law
("MBCL") and the RIBCA (the "Attleboro Merger"). Immediately following the
consummation of the Attleboro Merger, PVY shall adopt an agreement and plan of
merger pursuant to which Providence Gas Company ("ProvGas"), a wholly-owned
Subsidiary of PVY, shall merge with and into PVY on the Closing Date, with PVY
being the surviving corporation, by complying with the requirements of the
RIBCA (the "ProvGas Merger"). Immediately following the consummation of the
ProvGas Merger, SUG shall adopt an agreement and plan of merger pursuant to
which PVY shall merge with and into SUG on the Closing Date, with SUG being
the surviving corporation (the "Final Surviving Corporation"), by complying
with the requirements of the RIBCA and the DGCL (the "PVY Merger"). The
Merger, the ProvGas Merger, the Attleboro Merger and the PVY Merger shall
hereinafter be referred to collectively as the "Mergers."
SECTION 2.7 CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION; BYLAWS. Pursuant to the PVY Merger,
the Restated Certificate of Incorporation of SUG, as in effect immediately
prior to the Effective Time, shall be the Certificate of Incorporation of the
Final Surviving Corporation until thereafter amended as provided by law and
(ii) the Bylaws of SUG as in effect immediately prior to the Effective Time,
shall be the Bylaws of the Final Surviving Corporation until thereafter
amended as provided by law.
SECTION 2.8 DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS. The directors and officers of SUG
immediately prior to the Effective Time will be the directors and officers of
SUG after consummation of the PVY Merger, each to hold office in accordance
with the Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws of the Final Surviving
Corporation; provided that, immediately after the consummation of the Merger,
the Chief Executive Officer of PVY immediately prior to the Effective Time
will be elected or appointed as a member of the Board of Directors of SUG.
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ARTICLE III
CONVERSION OF SHARES
SECTION 3.1 EFFECT OF THE MERGER. As of the Effective Time, by virtue of the
Merger and without any action on the part of the holders of any shares of PVY
Common Stock and/or any shares of PVY Restricted Stock, all of which shall
become fully vested immediately prior to the Effective Time:
(a) Each issued and outstanding share of PVY Common Stock (which shall be
deemed to include (i) each issued and outstanding share of PVY
Restricted Stock and (ii) each related associated stock purchase right
(collectively, the "PVY Rights") issued pursuant to the Stock Rights
Agreement, dated as of July 23, 1998 between PVY and The Bank of New
York, as Rights Agent (the "PVY Stock Rights Agreement"), which will be
terminated at the Effective Time (any reference in this Agreement to
PVY Common Stock will be deemed to include the associated PVY Rights
and all PVY Restricted Stock)), will be converted into the right of
each holder thereof to receive $42.50 in cash (the "Merger
Consideration").
(b) Each holder of PVY Common Stock shall surrender all such holder's
certificates formerly representing ownership of PVY Common Stock in the
manner provided in Section 3.2. All such shares of PVY Common Stock,
when so converted, shall no longer be outstanding and shall be canceled
and automatically converted into the right to receive the Merger
Consideration therefor upon the surrender of such certificate in
accordance with Section 3.2. Any payment made pursuant to this Section
3.1 shall be made net of applicable withholding taxes to the extent
such withholding is required by law.
(c) Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the contrary, each
share of PVY Common Stock held in the treasury of PVY immediately prior
to the Effective Time shall be canceled and extinguished without
conversion thereof.
(d) Each share of common stock, par value $1.00 per share, of Newco issued
and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time shall be
converted into and become one share of common stock, par value $1.00
per share, of the Surviving Corporation.
SECTION 3.2 EXCHANGE OF PVY COMMON STOCK CERTIFICATES.
(a) SUG's registrar and transfer agent, or such other bank or trust company
which has a net capital of not less than $100,000,000, as may be
selected by SUG and be reasonably acceptable to PVY, will act as paying
agent ("Paying Agent") for the holders of PVY Common Stock in
connection with the Merger, pursuant to an agreement providing for the
matters set forth in this Section 3.2 and such other matters as may be
appropriate and the terms of which shall be reasonably satisfactory to
SUG and PVY, to receive the consideration to which holders of PVY
Common Stock become entitled pursuant to Section 3.1. Contemporaneous
with the Effective Time, SUG will deposit in trust with the Paying
Agent, for the benefit of holders of PVY Common Stock, the cash
necessary to pay the aggregate Merger Consideration as contemplated by
Section 3.1(a) with respect to each share of PVY Common Stock.
(b) At the Effective Time of the Merger, SUG will irrevocably instruct the
Paying Agent to promptly, and in any event not later than eight (8)
business days following the Effective Time, mail (and to make available
for collection by hand) to each holder of record of a certificate or
certificates, which immediately prior to the Effective Time represented
outstanding shares of PVY Common Stock (the "Certificates"), whose
shares of PVY Common Stock were converted pursuant to Section 3.1(a)
into the right to receive the Merger Consideration (i) a letter of
transmittal (which shall specify that delivery shall be effected, and
risk of loss and title to the Certificates shall pass, only upon
delivery of the Certificates to the Paying Agent and shall be in such
form and have such other provisions as SUG may reasonably specify) and
(ii) instructions (which shall provide that at the election of the
surrendering holder Certificates may be surrendered, and payment
therefor collected, by hand delivery) for use in effecting the
surrender of the Certificates in exchange for payment of the Merger
Consideration. Upon surrender of a Certificate for cancellation to the
Paying Agent or to such other agent or agents as may be appointed by
SUG, together with such letter of transmittal, duly executed, the
holder of such Certificate shall be entitled to receive in exchange
therefor the Merger Consideration for each share of PVY Common Stock
formerly represented by such Certificate, to be mailed
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(or made available for collection by hand if so elected by the
surrendering holder) within eight (8) business days of receipt
thereof, and the Certificate so surrendered shall forthwith be
canceled. If payment of the Merger Consideration is to be made to a
Person other than the Person in whose name the surrendered Certificate
is registered, it shall be a condition of payment that the Certificate
so surrendered shall be properly endorsed or shall be otherwise in
proper form for transfer and that the Person requesting such payment
shall have paid any transfer and other Taxes required by reason of the
payment of the Merger Consideration to a Person other than the
registered holder of the Certificate surrendered or shall have
established to the satisfaction of SUG that such Tax either has been
paid or is not applicable. Until surrendered as contemplated by this
Section 3.2, each Certificate (other than Certificates representing
PVY Common Stock held by SUG) shall be deemed at any time after the
Effective Time to represent only the right to receive the Merger
Consideration as contemplated by this Section 3.2.
(c) The Paying Agent shall invest the funds representing the aggregate
Merger Consideration, as directed by SUG, in (i) direct obligations of
the United States of America (ii) obligations for which the full faith
and credit of the United States of America is pledged to provide for
the payment of principal and interest or (iii) commercial paper rated
the highest quality by either Moody's Investors Service, Inc. or
Standard and Poor's Ratings Services, a division of The McGraw Hill
Companies, Inc.; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that, notwithstanding anything to
the contrary in this Agreement, if the Paying Agent is not able or
refuses to so invest such funds, SUG may deposit such funds in trust
with another bank or trust company which has a net capital of not less
than $100,000,000, as may be selected by SUG and be reasonably
acceptable to PVY, so long as the Paying Agent is allowed to draw on
such funds to the extent required to pay the Merger Consideration. Any
net earnings with respect to such funds shall be the property of and
paid over to SUG as and when requested by SUG.
(d) In the event any Certificate shall have been lost, stolen or destroyed,
upon the making of an affidavit of that fact by the Person claiming
such Certificate to be lost, stolen or destroyed, the Paying Agent will
issue in exchange for such lost, stolen or destroyed Certificate the
Merger Consideration deliverable in respect thereof as determined in
accordance with this Article III; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that the Person to
whom the Merger Consideration is paid shall, if required by SUG, as a
condition precedent to the payment thereof, give the Paying Agent a
bond in such sum as it may ordinarily require and indemnify SUG in a
manner satisfactory to it against any claim that may be made against
SUG with respect to the Certificate claimed to have been lost, stolen
or destroyed.
(e) After the Effective Time, the stock transfer books of PVY shall be
closed and there shall be no transfers on the stock transfer books of
the Surviving Corporation of shares of PVY Common Stock that were
outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time. If, after the
Effective Time, Certificates are presented to SUG, they shall be
canceled and exchanged for the Merger Consideration as provided in this
Article III.
(f) Any portion of the funds held by the Paying Agent that remain
undistributed to the former shareholders of PVY for eighteen (18)
months after the Effective Time shall be delivered by the Paying Agent,
which shall thereafter act as the Paying Agent, and any former
shareholders of PVY who have not complied with this Article III prior
to eighteen (18) months after the Effective Time shall thereafter look
only as a general creditor to SUG for payment of their claim for the
Merger Consideration.
(g) Neither the Surviving Corporation nor SUG shall be liable to any holder
of PVY Common Stock for Merger Consideration delivered to a public
official pursuant to any applicable abandonment, escheat or similar
law. Any amounts remaining unclaimed by holders of any such shares of
PVY Common Stock five years after the Effective Time (or such earlier
date immediately prior to the time at which such amounts would
otherwise escheat to or become property of any Governmental Body)
shall, to the extent permitted by applicable law, become the property
of SUG, free and clear of any claims or interest of any such holders or
their successors, assigns or personal representatives previously
entitled thereto.
SECTION 3.3 PVY OPTIONS; PVY PERFORMANCE SHARES.
(a) Each outstanding option to purchase shares of PVY Common Stock or other
similar interest (collectively, the "PVY Options") granted under any
stock option plans or under any other plan or arrangement of any
Acquired Company (the "Acquired Company Option Plans"), together with
the applicable exercise prices, are disclosed in Section 3.3(a) of the
PVY Disclosure Schedule. Each PVY Option that is outstanding at the
Effective Time shall be deemed fully
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vested and shall be converted at the Effective Time into a right to
receive in respect thereof a cash payment in an amount equal to the
product of (x) the amount by which (i) the Merger Consideration
exceeds (ii) the exercise price of such PVY Option (if less than (i))
and (y) the number of shares of PVY Common Stock subject thereto. Such
cash payment (net of applicable withholding taxes) shall be made on
the Closing Date or as promptly thereafter as reasonably practicable.
(b) Each outstanding award of PVY Performance Shares as determined pursuant
to the PVY Performance Share Plan, is disclosed in Section 3.3(b) of
the PVY Disclosure Schedule. Copies of the PVY Performance Share Plan
and the agreements entered into pursuant to the PVY Performance Share
Plan, which set forth the applicable performance measures and target
opportunities, have been provided to SUG prior to the date of this
Agreement. In accordance with the terms of the PVY Performance Share
Plan, the target opportunities for each outstanding award of PVY
Performance Shares outstanding at the Effective Time shall be deemed
fully earned for the entire "Performance Periods" (as such term is
defined in the PVY Performance Share Plan). Each PVY Performance Share
outstanding at the Effective Time shall be canceled and automatically
converted into a right to receive a cash payment in an amount equal to
the Merger Consideration. Any payment made pursuant to this Section
3.3(b) shall be made net of applicable withholding taxes to the extent
such withholding is required by law, and shall be made on the Closing
Date or as promptly thereafter as reasonably practicable.
ARTICLE IV
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF SUG
SUG, as to SUG and Newco, represents and warrants to PVY that:
SECTION 4.1 ORGANIZATION, EXISTENCE AND QUALIFICATION. SUG is a corporation
duly incorporated, validly existing, and in good standing under the laws of
the State of Delaware, with full corporate power and authority, and has been
duly authorized by all necessary approvals and orders of the Florida,
Missouri, Pennsylvania and Texas regulatory authorities and the Federal Energy
Regulatory Commission (the "FERC"), to conduct its business as it is now being
conducted, to own or use the properties and assets that it purports to own or
use, to perform its obligations under all Contracts to which it is a party,
and to execute and deliver this Agreement. Newco is a corporation duly
incorporated, validly existing, and in good standing under the laws of the
State of Rhode Island, with full corporate power and authority, to conduct its
business as it is now being conducted, to own or use the properties and assets
that it purports to own or use, to perform its obligations under all Contracts
to which it is a party, and to execute and deliver this Agreement. Each of SUG
and Newco is duly qualified to do business as a foreign corporation and is in
good standing under the laws of each state or other jurisdiction in which
either the ownership or use of the properties owned or used by it, or the
nature of the business conducted by it, requires such qualification as a
foreign corporation except for such failures to be so qualified or in good
standing as are not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to
have a SUG Material Adverse Effect.
SECTION 4.2 AUTHORITY RELATIVE TO THIS AGREEMENT AND BINDING EFFECT. The
execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the Related
Documents by each of SUG and Newco have been duly authorized by all requisite
corporate action. The execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement
and the Related Documents by SUG and Newco will not result in a violation or
breach of any term or provision of, or constitute a default, or require a
consent, approval or notification, or accelerate the performance required
under, the Organizational Documents of SUG or Newco, as the case may be, any
indenture, mortgage, deed of trust, security agreement, loan agreement, or
other Contract to which SUG or Newco is a party or by which its assets are
bound, or violate any Order, with such exceptions as are not, individually or
in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a SUG Material Adverse Effect.
This Agreement constitutes and the Related Documents to be executed by SUG and
Newco when executed and delivered will constitute valid and legally binding
obligations of SUG and Newco, enforceable against SUG and Newco in accordance
with their terms, except as enforceability may be limited by (i) bankruptcy or
similar laws from time to time in effect affecting the enforcement of
creditors' rights generally or (ii) the availability of equitable remedies
generally.
SECTION 4.3 GOVERNMENTAL APPROVALS. Except as set forth in Section 4.3 of the
SUG Disclosure Schedule and as required by the HSR Act, as of the date of this
Agreement, no approval or authorization of any Governmental Body with respect
to performance under this Agreement or the Related Documents by SUG and Newco
is required to be obtained by SUG and
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Newco in connection with the execution and delivery by SUG and Newco of this
Agreement or the Related Documents or the consummation by SUG and Newco of the
transactions contemplated hereby or thereby, the failure to obtain which are,
individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a SUG Material
Adverse Effect.
SECTION 4.4 PUBLIC UTILITY HOLDING COMPANY STATUS; REGULATION AS A PUBLIC
UTILITY. SUG is a "gas utility company" and a "public utility company" (as
such terms are defined in PUHCA). SUG indirectly owns a minority interest in a
"foreign utility company" (as such term is defined in PUHCA) that is exempt
from, and is deemed not to be a public utility company for purposes of, PUHCA
pursuant to Section 33 thereof with respect to which SUG has filed with the
SEC a Form U-57 notification of foreign utility company status. Except as
stated above in this Section 4.4 and with respect to their relationship with
SUG, neither SUG nor any of its Subsidiaries is a "holding company," a
"subsidiary company," a "public utility company" or an "affiliate" of a
"public utility company," or a "holding company" within the meaning of such
terms in PUHCA. As of the date of this Agreement, SUG is subject to regulation
as a public utility or public service company (or similar designation) in the
states of Florida, Missouri, Texas and Pennsylvania. Except as stated in the
preceding sentence, as of the date of this Agreement, neither SUG nor its
"affiliates" (as such term is defined in PUHCA) are subject to regulation as a
public utility or public service company (or similar designation) in any other
state.
SECTION 4.5 LEGAL PROCEEDINGS; ORDERS. Except as specifically described in a
report, schedule, registration statement or definitive proxy statement filed
by SUG with the SEC since September 1, 1999 and delivered to PVY prior to the
date of this Agreement, as of the date of this Agreement, there is no pending
Proceeding that challenges, or that may have the effect of preventing,
delaying, making illegal, or otherwise interfering with, the Mergers or any of
the transactions contemplated hereby.
SECTION 4.6 BROKERS. Neither SUG nor Newco is a party to, or in any way
obligated under any Contract, and there are no outstanding claims against SUG
or Newco, for the payment of any broker's or finder's fees in connection with
the origin, negotiation, execution or performance of this Agreement.
SECTION 4.7 DISCLAIMER OF REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. EXCEPT FOR THE
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES CONTAINED IN THIS ARTICLE IV, SUG MAKES NO
OTHER REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AND SUG HEREBY
DISCLAIMS ANY SUCH OTHER REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES, WHETHER BY SUG, ANY
SUBSIDIARY OF SUG, OR ANY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES,
AGENTS OR REPRESENTATIVES, OR ANY OTHER PERSON, WITH RESPECT TO THIS AGREEMENT
AND THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY, NOTWITHSTANDING THE DELIVERY OR
DISCLOSURE TO PVY OR ANY OF ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, AGENTS OR
REPRESENTATIVES, OR ANY OTHER PERSON, OF ANY DOCUMENTATION OR OTHER
INFORMATION BY SUG, ANY SUBSIDIARY OF SUG, OR ANY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE
DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, AGENTS OR REPRESENTATIVES, OR ANY OTHER
PERSON, WITH RESPECT TO ANY OF THE FOREGOING.
ARTICLE V
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF PVY
PVY, as to the Acquired Companies, represents and warrants to SUG as follows:
SECTION 5.1 ORGANIZATION, EXISTENCE AND QUALIFICATION.
(a) Each Acquired Company is a corporation duly incorporated, validly
existing, and in good standing under the laws of its state of
incorporation, with full corporate power and authority and has been
duly authorized by all necessary approvals and orders of the Rhode
Island, Massachusetts and all other relevant state regulatory
authorities and the FERC to conduct its business as it is now being
conducted, to own or use the properties and assets that it purports to
own or use, and to perform all its obligations under Applicable
Contracts. Section 5.1(a) of the PVY Disclosure Schedule sets forth the
name of each Acquired Company, the state or jurisdiction of its
incorporation or organization, and for each state or jurisdiction where
such Acquired Company is duly qualified as a foreign corporation. Each
Acquired Company is duly qualified to do business as a foreign
corporation and is in good standing under the laws of each state or
other jurisdiction in which either the ownership or use of the
properties owned or used by it, or
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the nature of the business conducted by it, requires such qualification
as a foreign corporation except for such failures to be so qualified or
in good standing as are not, individually or in the aggregate,
reasonably likely to have a PVY Material Adverse Effect.
(b) PVY has delivered to SUG copies of the Organizational Documents, as
currently in effect, of each Acquired Company.
SECTION 5.2 CAPITALIZATION. The capital stock of PVY consists of 20,000,000
shares of PVY Common Stock, of which 6,096,485 shares were issued and
outstanding on October 31, 1999. Such shares include 28,620 shares of PVY
Restricted Stock. ProvGas is authorized to issue 80,000 shares of ProvGas
Preferred Stock, of which 32,000 shares were issued and outstanding on October
31, 1999. The issued and outstanding shares of PVY Common Stock and ProvGas
Preferred Stock have been validly issued and are fully paid and nonassessable.
Except as specifically described in the PVY SEC Documents delivered to SUG
prior to the date of this Agreement or as set forth in Section 3.3(a) of the
PVY Disclosure Schedule, no shares of PVY Common Stock or ProvGas Preferred
Stock are held, in treasury or otherwise, by PVY or any of its Subsidiaries
and there are no outstanding (i) securities convertible into PVY Common Stock,
ProvGas Preferred Stock or other capital stock of PVY or any of its
Subsidiaries, (ii) warrants or options to purchase PVY Common Stock or other
securities of PVY or any of its Subsidiaries or (iii) other commitments to
issue shares of PVY Common Stock, ProvGas Preferred Stock or other securities
of PVY or any of its Subsidiaries. There are no voting trusts, proxies or
other agreements, commitments or understandings of any character to which PVY
or any of its Subsidiaries is a party or by which PVY or any of its
Subsidiaries is bound with respect to the voting of any shares of capital
stock of PVY or with respect to the registration of the offering, sale or
delivery of any shares of capital stock of PVY under the Securities Act or
otherwise.
SECTION 5.3 SUBSIDIARIES; INVESTMENTS. Except as set forth in Section 5.3 of
the PVY Disclosure Schedule, PVY has no Subsidiaries or investments in any
Person (except for marketable securities disclosed to SUG prior to the date of
this Agreement) and, except for the issued and outstanding ProvGas Preferred
Stock, PVY is the registered owner and holder of all of the issued and
outstanding shares of capital stock of its Subsidiaries and has good title to
such shares. The outstanding capital stock of each Subsidiary has been duly
authorized, validly issued and is fully paid and nonassessable. All such
capital stock owned by any Acquired Company is free and clear of any
Encumbrance (except for any Encumbrance disclosed in the PVY SEC Documents
delivered to SUG prior to the date of this Agreement, or created or incurred
by this Agreement in favor of SUG, or imposed by federal or state securities
laws).
SECTION 5.4 AUTHORITY RELATIVE TO THIS AGREEMENT AND BINDING EFFECT. The
execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the Related
Documents by PVY have been duly authorized by all requisite corporate action,
except, as of the date of this Agreement, for the PVY Shareholders' Approval.
Except as set forth in Section 5.4 of the PVY Disclosure Schedule, the
execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the Related
Documents by PVY will not require a consent, approval or notification, will
not result in a violation or breach of any term or provision of, or constitute
a default or accelerate the performance required under, the Organizational
Documents of any of the Acquired Companies, any indenture, mortgage, deed of
trust, security agreement, loan agreement, or other Applicable Contract to
which any of the Acquired Companies is a party or by which its assets are
bound, or violate any Order, with such exceptions as are not, individually or
in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a PVY Material Adverse Effect.
This Agreement constitutes and the Related Documents to be executed by any of
the Acquired Companies when executed and delivered will constitute valid and
legally binding obligations of such Acquired Company, enforceable against such
Acquired Company in accordance with their terms, except as enforceability may
be limited by (i) bankruptcy or similar laws from time to time in effect
affecting the enforcement of creditors' rights generally or (ii) the
availability of equitable remedies generally.
SECTION 5.5 GOVERNMENTAL APPROVALS. Except as set forth in Section 5.5 of the
PVY Disclosure Schedule and as required by the HSR Act, no approval or
authorization of any Governmental Body with respect to performance under this
Agreement or the Related Documents by any Acquired Company is required to be
obtained by any Acquired Company in connection with the execution and delivery
by PVY of this Agreement or the Related Documents or the consummation by the
Acquired Companies of the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby, the
failure to obtain which are, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably
likely to have a PVY Material Adverse Effect.
SECTION 5.6 PUBLIC UTILITY HOLDING COMPANY STATUS; REGULATION AS A PUBLIC
UTILITY. PVY is a "holding company" (as such term is defined in PUHCA) exempt
from all provisions of PUHCA (except Section 9(a)(2) thereof) pursuant to
Section 3(a) of PUHCA, and has received no adverse notice from the SEC with
respect to the validity of its exempt status.
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ProvGas and Attleboro are both "public utility companies" (as such term is
defined in PUHCA). Each of ProvGas and Attleboro is a "subsidiary company" of
PVY, and an "affiliate" of the other and of PVY (as such terms are defined in
PUHCA). Except as set forth above in this Section 5.6 and with respect to
their relationship to PVY, ProvGas and Attleboro, none of the Acquired
Companies is a "holding company," a "subsidiary company," a "public utility
company," or an "affiliate" of a "public utility company" or a "holding
company," as such terms are defined in PUHCA. ProvGas is subject to regulation
as a public utility or public service company (or similar designation) in the
state of Rhode Island and Attleboro is subject to regulation as a public
utility or public service company (or similar designation) in the state of
Massachusetts. Except as stated in the preceding sentence, neither PVY and nor
its "affiliates" (as such term is defined in PUHCA) are subject to regulation
as a public utility or public service company (or similar designation) in any
other state.
SECTION 5.7 COMPLIANCE WITH LEGAL REQUIREMENTS; GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORIZATIONS.
(a) Except as set forth in Section 5.7(a) of the PVY Disclosure Schedule or
as specifically described in the PVY SEC Documents delivered to SUG
prior to the date of this Agreement, and subject to Section 5.19 of
this Agreement, to the Knowledge of any Acquired Company, no Acquired
Company is in violation of any Legal Requirement that is applicable to
it, to the conduct or operation of its business, or to the ownership or
use of any of its assets, other than such violations, if any, which are
not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a PVY
Material Adverse Effect.
(b) The PVY SEC Documents delivered to SUG prior to the date of this
Agreement accurately describe all material regulation of each Acquired
Company that relates to the utility business of any Acquired Company.
Except as set forth on Section 5.7(a) of the PVY Disclosure Schedule,
each Acquired Company has and is in material compliance with all
material Governmental Authorizations necessary to conduct its business
and to own, operate and use all of its assets as currently conducted.
SECTION 5.8 LEGAL PROCEEDINGS; ORDERS. Except as set forth in Section 5.8 of
the PVY Disclosure Schedule or as specifically described in the PVY SEC
Documents delivered to SUG prior to the date of this Agreement, there is no
pending Proceeding:
(1) that has been commenced by or against, or that otherwise relates to,
any Acquired Company that is reasonably likely to have a PVY Material
Adverse Effect; or
(2) as of the date of this Agreement, that challenges, or that may have the
effect of preventing, delaying, making illegal, or otherwise
interfering with, the Mergers or any of the transactions contemplated
hereby.
To the Knowledge of PVY, except as set forth in Section 5.8 of the PVY
Disclosure Schedule, as of the date of this Agreement, no such Proceedings,
audits or investigations have been Threatened that are, individually or in the
aggregate, reasonably likely to have a PVY Material Adverse Effect. As of the
date of this Agreement, none of the Acquired Companies is subject to any
Orders that are, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a
PVY Material Adverse Effect.
SECTION 5.9 SEC DOCUMENTS. PVY has made (and, with respect to such documents
filed after the date hereof through the Closing Date, will make) available to
SUG a true and complete copy of (i) each report, schedule, registration
statement (other than on Form S-8), and definitive proxy statement filed by
PVY or ProvGas with the SEC since September 30, 1998 through the Closing Date
in substantially the form filed with the SEC (the "PVY SEC Documents") and
(ii) the PVY Audited Financials. As of their respective dates, the PVY SEC
Documents, including without limitation any financial statements or schedules
included therein, complied (or will comply), in all material respects with the
requirements of the Securities Act or the Exchange Act, as the case may be,
and the rules and regulations of the SEC thereunder applicable to such PVY SEC
Documents, and did not (or will not) contain any untrue statement of a
material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein
or necessary to make the statements therein, in light of the circumstances
under which they were made, not misleading. The audited consolidated financial
statements and unaudited interim financial statements of PVY and ProvGas
included in the PVY SEC Documents and the PVY Audited Financials
(collectively, the "PVY Financial Statements") were (or will be) prepared in
accordance with GAAP (except as may be indicated therein or in the notes
thereto and except with respect to unaudited statements as permitted by Form
10-Q) and fairly present (or will fairly present) in all material respects the
financial position of PVY and its Subsidiaries, or ProvGas, as the case may
be, as of the respective dates
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thereof or the results of operations and cash flows for the respective periods
then ended, as the case may be, subject, in the case of unaudited interim
financial statements, to normal adjustments which are not material in the
aggregate.
SECTION 5.10 TAXES. Except as set forth in Section 5.10 of the PVY
Disclosure Schedule:
(a) The Acquired Companies have timely filed all United States federal,
state and local income Tax Returns required to be filed by or with
respect to them or requests for extensions to file such Tax Returns
have been timely filed, granted and have not expired, and the Acquired
Companies have timely paid and discharged all Taxes due in connection
with or with respect to the periods or transactions covered by such Tax
Returns and have paid all other Taxes as are due or made adequate
provision therefor in accordance with GAAP except where failures to so
file, pay or discharge are not, individually or in the aggregate,
reasonably likely to have a PVY Material Adverse Effect. There are no
pending audits or other examinations relating to any Tax matters. There
are no Tax liens on any assets of the Acquired Companies. As of the
date of this Agreement, none of the Acquired Companies has granted any
waiver of any statute of limitations with respect to, or any extension
of a period for the assessment of, any Tax. The accruals and reserves
(including deferred taxes) reflected in the PVY Balance Sheet are in
all material respects adequate to cover all material Taxes accruable
through the date thereof (including interest and penalties, if any,
thereon and Taxes being contested) in accordance with GAAP.
(b) None of the Acquired Companies is obligated under any Applicable
Contract with respect to industrial development bonds or other
obligations with respect to which the excludability from gross income
of the holder for federal or state income tax purposes could be
affected by the Merger or any of the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement.
SECTION 5.11 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY. Except as set forth in Section 5.11 of the
PVY Disclosure Schedule, no Acquired Company has any Knowledge of (i) any
infringement or claimed infringement by any Acquired Company of any patent
rights or copyrights of others or (ii) any infringement of the patent or
patent license rights, trademarks or copyrights owned by or under license to
any Acquired Company, except for any such infringements of the type described
in clause (i) or (ii) that are not, individually or in the aggregate,
reasonably likely to have a PVY Material Adverse Effect.
SECTION 5.12 TITLE TO ASSETS. Except (i) as specifically described in the PVY
SEC Documents delivered to SUG prior to the date of this Agreement, (ii) as
set forth in Section 5.19 of this Agreement or (iii) as set forth in Section
5.19 of the PVY Disclosure Schedule, none of the Acquired Companies' assets
are subject to any Encumbrance other than PVY Permitted Liens.
SECTION 5.13 INDEBTEDNESS. All outstanding principal amounts of indebtedness
for borrowed money of the Acquired Companies as of October 30, 1999 are set
forth in Section 5.13 of the PVY Disclosure Schedule.
SECTION 5.14 MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT. Except for normal wear and tear, and
with such other exceptions as are not, individually or in the aggregate,
reasonably likely to have a PVY Material Adverse Effect, the machinery and
equipment of the Acquired Companies necessary for the conduct by the Acquired
Companies of their respective businesses as presently conducted are in
operating condition and in a state of reasonable maintenance and repair.
SECTION 5.15 CONTRACTS. Set forth in Section 5.15(a) of the PVY Disclosure
Schedule is a list as the date hereof of all Applicable Contracts which are
Material Contracts. Except as described in Section 5.15(b) of the PVY
Disclosure Schedule or as specifically described in the PVY SEC Documents
delivered to SUG prior to the date of this Agreement, and with such exceptions
as are not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a PVY
Material Adverse Effect, all Applicable Contracts of the Acquired Companies
are in full force and effect and no Acquired Company nor, to the Knowledge of
PVY, any other party thereto is in default thereunder nor has any event
occurred or is any event occurring that with notice or the passage of time or
otherwise, is reasonably likely to give rise to an event of default thereunder
by any party thereto.
SECTION 5.16 INSURANCE. Section 5.16(a) of the PVY Disclosure Schedule sets
forth a list of all policies of insurance held by the Acquired Companies as of
the date of this Agreement. Except as set forth in Section 5.16(b) of the PVY
Disclosure Schedule, since September 30, 1994, the assets and the business of
the Acquired Companies have been continuously insured with what PVY reasonably
believes are reputable insurers against all risks and in such amounts normally
insured against by companies of the same type and in the same line of business
as any of the Acquired Companies. As of the date of this
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Agreement, no notice of cancellation, non-renewal or material increase in
premiums has been received by any of the Acquired Companies with respect to
such policies, and no Acquired Company has Knowledge of any fact or
circumstance that could reasonably be expected to form the basis for any
cancellation, non-renewal or material increase in premiums, except for such
cancellations, non-renewals and increases which are not, individually or in
the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a PVY Material Adverse Effect. None
of the Acquired Companies is in default with respect to any provision
contained in any such policy or binder nor has there been any failure to give
notice or to present any claim relating to the business or the assets of the
Acquired Companies under any such policy or binder in a timely fashion or in
the manner or detail required by the policy or binder, except for such
defaults or failures which are not, individually or in the aggregate,
reasonably likely to have a PVY Material Adverse Effect. As of the date of
this Agreement, there are no outstanding unpaid premiums (except premiums not
yet due and payable), and no notice of cancellation or renewal with respect
to, or disallowance of any claim under, any such policy or binder has been
received by the Acquired Companies as of the date hereof, except for such
non-payments of premiums, cancellations, renewals or disallowances which are
not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a PVY
Material Adverse Effect.
SECTION 5.17 EMPLOYEES. PVY has made available to SUG prior to the date hereof
a list as of no more than thirty (30) days prior to the date of this Agreement
of all the then present officers and employees of the Acquired Companies,
indicating each employee's base salary or wage rate and identifying those who
are union employees and those who are part-time employees. Except as set forth
in Section 5.17(a) of the PVY Disclosure Schedule, as of the date of this
Agreement, no labor union or other collective bargaining unit has been
certified or recognized by any of the Acquired Companies, and, to the
Knowledge of the Acquired Companies, as of the date of this Agreement, there
are no elections, organizing drives or material controversies pending or
Threatened between any of the Acquired Companies and any labor union or other
collective bargaining unit representing any of the Acquired Companies'
employees. There is no pending or, to the Knowledge of PVY, Threatened labor
practice complaint, arbitration, labor strike or other labor dispute
(excluding grievances) involving any of the Acquired Companies which are,
individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a PVY Material
Adverse Effect. Except for collective bargaining agreements that have been
provided to SUG prior to the date of this Agreement or as set forth in Section
5.17(b) of the PVY Disclosure Schedule, as of the date of this Agreement, none
of the Acquired Companies is a party to any employment agreement with any
employee pertaining to any of the Acquired Companies.
SECTION 5.18 EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS.
(a) Except as would not, individually or in the aggregate, result in a
PVY Material Adverse Effect:
(1) Each of the PVY Benefit Plans has been operated and
administered in all respects in accordance with its governing
documents and applicable federal and state laws (including,
but not limited to, ERISA and the IRC).
(2) As to any PVY Benefit Plan subject to Title IV of ERISA, (i)
there is no event or condition which presents the risk of plan
termination, (ii) no reportable event within the meaning of
Section 4043 of ERISA (for which the notice requirements of
Regulation Section4043 promulgated by the PBGC have not been
waived) has occurred within the last six years, (iii) no
notice of intent to terminate the PVY Benefit Plan has been
given under Section 4041 of ERISA, (iv) no proceeding has been
instituted under Section 4042 of ERISA to terminate the PVY
Benefit Plan, (v) there has been no termination or partial
termination of the PVY Benefit Plan within the meaning of
Section 411(d)(3) of the IRC within the last six years, (vi)
no event described in Sections 4062 or 4063 of ERISA has
occurred, and (vii) all PBGC premiums have been timely paid
and no liability to the PBGC has been incurred, except for
PBGC premiums not yet due.
(3) Each trust funding a PVY Benefit Plan, which trust is intended
to be exempt from federal income taxation pursuant to Section
501(c)(9) of the IRC, satisfies the requirements of such
section and has received a favorable determination letter from
the IRS regarding such exempt status and has not, since
receipt of the most recent favorable determination letter,
been amended or operated in any way which would adversely
affect such exempt status.
(4) With respect to any PVY Benefit Plan or any other "employee
benefit plan" as defined in Section 3(3) of ERISA which is
established, sponsored, maintained or contributed to, or with
respect to any such plan which has been established,
sponsored, maintained or contributed to within six years prior
to the Closing
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Date, by the Acquired Companies or any corporation, trade,
business or entity under common control or being a part of an
affiliated service group with any of the Acquired Companies,
within the meaning of Section 414(b), (c) or (m) of the IRC
or Section 4001 of ERISA ("PVY Commonly Controlled Entity"),
(i) no withdrawal liability, within the meaning of Section
4201 of ERISA, has been incurred, which withdrawal liability
has not been satisfied and no such withdrawal liability is
reasonably expected to be incurred, (ii) no liability under
Title IV of ERISA (including, but not limited to, liability
to the PBGC) has been incurred by the Acquired Companies or
any PVY Commonly Controlled Entity, which liability has not
been satisfied (other than for PBGC premiums not yet due),
(iii) no accumulated funding deficiency, whether or not
waived, within the meaning of Section 302 of ERISA or Section
412 of the IRC has been incurred for which any liability is
outstanding, (iv) there has been no failure to make any
contribution (including installments) to such plan required
by Section 302 of ERISA and Section 412 of the IRC which has
resulted in a lien under Section 302 of ERISA or Section 412
of the IRC and for which any liability is currently
outstanding, (v) no action, omission or transaction has
occurred with respect to any such plan or any other PVY
Benefit Plan which could subject any of the Acquired
Companies, the plan or trust forming a part thereof, or SUG
to a civil liability or penalty under ERISA or other
applicable laws, or a Tax under the IRC, (vi) any such plan
which is a Group Health Plan has complied in all respects
with the provisions of Sections 601-608 of ERISA and Section
4980B of the IRC, (vii) there are no pending or Threatened
claims by or on behalf of any such plan or any other PVY
Benefit Plan, by any employees, former employees or plan
beneficiaries covered by such plan or otherwise by or on
behalf of any person involving any such plan (other than
routine non-contested claims for benefits) which could result
in a liability to the Acquired Companies taken as a whole and
(viii) neither the Acquired Companies nor any PVY Commonly
Controlled Entity has engaged in, or is a successor or parent
corporation to any entity or person that has engaged in, a
transaction described in Section 4069 of ERISA.
(5) There is no matter pending (other than qualification
determination applications and filings and other required
periodic filings) with respect to any of the PVY Benefit Plans
before the IRS, the Department of Labor, the PBGC or in or
before any other Governmental Body.
(b) Except as set forth in Section 5.18(b) of the PVY Disclosure Schedule,
the execution and delivery of this Agreement and the consummation of
the transactions contemplated hereby will not (i) increase the amount
of benefits otherwise payable under any PVY Benefit Plan, (ii) result
in the acceleration of the time of eligibility to participate in any
PVY Benefit Plan, or any payment, exercisability, funding or vesting of
any benefit under any PVY Benefit Plan, (iii) result in any payment
becoming due to or with respect to any current or former employee,
director or consultant, or (iv) result in any payment becoming due in
the event of a termination of employment or service of any employee,
director or consultant.
(c) Except as set forth in Section 5.18(c) of the PVY Disclosure Schedule,
none of the Acquired Companies is a party to any Contract nor has it
established any policy or practice, which would require it or SUG to
make a payment or provide any other form of compensation or benefit to
any Person performing (or who within the past twelve months performed)
services for any of the Acquired Companies during or upon termination
of such services which would not be payable or provided in the absence
of the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
(d) Section 5.18(d) of the PVY Disclosure Schedule contains a true and
complete list of each PVY Benefit Plan, all Acquired Company Option
Plans and any management, employment, deferred compensation, severance
(including any payment, right or benefit resulting from a change in
control), bonus, or other contract for personal services with any
current or former officer, director or employee, any consulting
contract with any person who prior to entering such contract was a
director or officer of any Acquired Company or any plan, agreement,
arrangement or understanding similar to any of the foregoing. Except as
set forth in Section 5.18(d) of the PVY Disclosure Schedule, there are
no outstanding options to purchase capital stock or other securities of
PVY or any of its Subsidiaries. PVY has provided to SUG a complete and
correct copy of each PVY Benefit Plan (or written summary of any
unwritten PVY Benefit Plan), and with respect to each PVY Benefit Plan,
the current summary plan description, related trust agreements, related
insurance contracts, the latest IRS determination letter, the last
three annual reports on Form 5500 series (including all required
schedules), and the most recent actuarial report and annual financial
statements.
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(e) None of the Acquired Companies has contributed or been obligated to
contribute to any "multi-employer plan" within the meaning of Section
3(37) of ERISA within the last six years. None of the Acquired
Companies has any outstanding liability with respect to any such plan
which, individually or in the aggregate with the events or conditions
described in Section 5.18(a), is reasonably likely to result in a PVY
Material Adverse Effect.
SECTION 5.19 ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS. Except as set forth in Section 5.19 of the
PVY Disclosure Schedule or as specifically described in the PVY SEC Documents
delivered to SUG prior to the date of this Agreement, and with such other
exceptions as are not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to
have a PVY Material Adverse Effect:
(a) To the Knowledge of any Acquired Company, no Facility owned or operated
by any Acquired Company is currently, or was at any time, listed on the
National Priorities List promulgated under CERCLA, or on any comparable
state list, and no Acquired Company has received any written
notification of potential or actual liability or a written request for
information from any Person under or relating to CERCLA or any
comparable Legal Requirement with respect to any Acquired Company or
the Facilities;
(b) To the Knowledge of any Acquired Company, each Acquired Company and any
Person for whose conduct any Acquired Company is reasonably likely to
be held responsible, is currently and at all times has been, in
material compliance with any Environmental Law. No Acquired Company has
received any Order, written notice, or other written communication from
(i) any Governmental Body or private citizen acting in the public
interest, or (ii) the current or prior owner or operator of any
Facilities, of any violation or failure to comply with any
Environmental Law, or of any obligation to undertake or bear the cost
of any environmental cleanup, or seeking information regarding prior
disposal at or with respect to potential liability regarding any
property or Facility at which Hazardous Materials generated by any
Acquired Company were transported for disposal;
(c) There are no pending or, to the Knowledge of any of the Acquired
Companies, Threatened claims arising under or pursuant to any
Environmental Law with respect to or affecting any of the Facilities or
any other properties and assets (whether real, personal, or mixed) in
which any Acquired Company has or had a direct or indirect interest
(including by ownership or use); and
(d) PVY has delivered or made available to SUG true and complete copies and
results of any environmental site assessments, studies, analyses, tests
or monitoring possessed by any Acquired Company of which any Acquired
Company has Knowledge pertaining to Hazardous Materials or Hazardous
Activities in, on or under the Facilities, or concerning compliance by
any Acquired Company or any other Person for whose conduct any Acquired
Company is reasonably likely to be held responsible, with Environmental
Laws.
SECTION 5.20 NO MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE. Since the date of the PVY Balance
Sheet, except as specifically described in the PVY SEC Documents delivered to
SUG prior to the date of this Agreement, there has not been any PVY Material
Adverse Effect, and no events have occurred or circumstances exist that are,
individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a PVY Material
Adverse Effect, except that any PVY Material Adverse Effect that results from
or relates to (a) general business or economic conditions, (b) conditions
generally affecting the industries in which the Acquired Companies compete or
(c) the announcement and consummation of the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement shall be disregarded.
SECTION 5.21 BROKERS. Except as set forth in Section 5.21 of the PVY
Disclosure Schedule, no Acquired Company is a party to, or in any way
obligated under any Applicable Contract, and there are no outstanding claims
against any Acquired Company, for the payment of any broker's or finder's fees
in connection with the origin, negotiation, execution or performance of this
Agreement.
SECTION 5.22 PVY STOCK RIGHTS AGREEMENT. Prior to the date of this Agreement,
PVY has delivered to SUG a true and complete copy of the PVY Stock Rights
Agreement. The consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement
will not result in the triggering of any right or entitlement of the holders
of the PVY Common Stock or other PVY securities under the PVY Stock Rights
Agreement. Neither PVY nor any of its Subsidiaries is a party to any agreement
similar to the PVY Stock Rights Agreement.
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SECTION 5.23 REGULATORY PROCEEDINGS. Except as set forth in Section 5.23 of
the PVY Disclosure Schedule or in the PVY SEC Documents delivered to SUG prior
to the date of this Agreement, other than purchase gas adjustment provisions,
none of PVY or its Subsidiaries all or part of whose rates or services are
regulated by a Governmental Body (a) has rates that have been or are being
collected subject to refund, pending final resolution of any rate proceeding
pending before a Governmental Body or on appeal to the courts, or (b) is a
party to any rate proceeding before a Governmental Body that are, individually
or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to result in any Orders having a PVY
Material Adverse Effect.
SECTION 5.24 VOTE REQUIRED. Other than the approval of the Merger by the
holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of PVY Common Stock (the "PVY
Shareholders' Approval"), no vote of the holders of any class or series of the
capital stock of any Acquired Company is required to approve this Agreement
and the Mergers. The consent of the holders of 80% in aggregate principal
amount of all First Mortgage Bonds outstanding under the ProvGas Indenture to
each of the amendments to the ProvGas Indenture described on Schedule 6.1(n)
hereto is the only consent required to adopt such amendments.
SECTION 5.25 OPINION OF FINANCIAL ADVISOR. The Board of Directors of PVY has
received the opinion of Salomon Smith Barney Inc., dated as of the date
hereof, to the effect that, as of such date, the Merger Consideration is fair
from a financial point of view, to the holders of PVY Common Stock. PVY will
provide a copy of such opinion to SUG.
SECTION 5.26 DISCLAIMER OF REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. EXCEPT FOR THE
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES CONTAINED IN THIS ARTICLE V, PVY MAKES NO OTHER
REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AND PVY HEREBY DISCLAIMS
ANY SUCH OTHER REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES, WHETHER BY PVY, ANY SUBSIDIARY
OF PVY, OR ANY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, AGENTS OR
REPRESENTATIVES, OR ANY OTHER PERSON, WITH RESPECT TO THIS AGREEMENT AND THE
TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY, NOTWITHSTANDING THE DELIVERY OR DISCLOSURE
TO SUG OR ANY OF ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, AGENTS OR
REPRESENTATIVES, OR ANY OTHER PERSON, OF ANY DOCUMENTATION OR OTHER
INFORMATION BY PVY, ANY SUBSIDIARY OF PVY, OR ANY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE
DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, AGENTS OR REPRESENTATIVES, OR ANY OTHER
PERSON, WITH RESPECT TO ANY OF THE FOREGOING.
ARTICLE VI
COVENANTS
SECTION 6.1 COVENANTS OF PVY. PVY agrees to observe and perform the following
covenants and agreements:
(a) CONDUCT OF THE BUSINESS PRIOR TO THE CLOSING DATE. With respect to the
Acquired Companies, except (i) as contemplated in this Agreement, (ii)
as required by law or regulation, (iii) as set forth in the PVY capital
budget, a written copy of which has been provided to SUG by letter
dated November 15, 1999, which letter refers to this Agreement, (iv)
for any redemption of First Mortgage Bonds outstanding under the
ProvGas Indenture that is required to be made by the terms thereof on
the date of any such redemption (such redemption to be made in
accordance with the applicable mandatory redemption provisions of such
Indenture), (v) for any commercially reasonable action that PVY
determines in good faith, after consulting with SUG, should be taken by
ProvGas in order to satisfy the condition set forth in the second
sentence of Section 7.1(e), or (vi) as otherwise expressly consented to
in writing by SUG, which consent will not be unreasonably withheld or
delayed, prior to the Closing, PVY will cause each Acquired Company to:
(1) Not make or permit any material change in the general nature
of its business;
(2) Maintain its Ordinary Course of Business in accordance with
prudent business judgment and consistent with past practice
and policy, and maintain consistent with its Ordinary Course
of Business its assets in good repair, order and condition,
reasonable wear and tear excepted, subject to retirements in
the Ordinary Course of Business;
(3) Use reasonable efforts to preserve the Acquired Company as an
ongoing business and maintain the goodwill associated with
the Acquired Company;
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(4) Preserve all of the Acquired Companies' franchises, tariffs,
certificates of public convenience and necessity, licenses,
authorizations and other governmental rights and permits;
(5) Not enter into any material transaction or Material Contract
other than in the Ordinary Course of Business;
(6) Not purchase, sell, lease, dispose of or otherwise transfer
or make any contract for the purchase, sale, lease,
disposition or transfer of, or subject to lien, any of the
assets of the Acquired Company other than in the Ordinary
Course of Business;
(7) Not hire any new employees except in the Ordinary Course of
Business (and in no event hire, for any calendar month, a
number of new employees greater than the average monthly
number of new employees hired by the Acquired Company over
the prior 12 calendar months);
(8) Not file any material applications, petitions, motions,
orders, briefs, settlement or agreements in any material
Proceeding before any Governmental Body which involves any
Acquired Company, and appeals related thereto without, to the
extent reasonably practicable, consulting SUG; PROVIDED,
HOWEVER, that if such Proceeding is reasonably likely to have
a PVY Material Adverse Effect, PVY shall not make any such
filing without the consent of SUG, which consent shall not be
unreasonably withheld or delayed.
(9) Not engage in or modify, except in the Ordinary Course of
Business, any material intercompany transactions involving
any other Acquired Company;
(10) Not voluntarily change in any material respect or terminate
any insurance policies disclosed on Section 5.16(a) of the
PVY Disclosure Schedule that presently are in effect unless
equivalent coverage is obtained;
(11) Except as disclosed or specifically contemplated in this
Agreement and except with respect to budgeted expenditures
known and specifically disclosed in writing to SUG, subject
to adjustments in the Ordinary Course of Business and other
deviations (which in the aggregate shall not exceed 5% on an
annualized basis during the period from the date of this
Agreement until the Closing Date), not make any capital
expenditure or capital expenditure commitment;
(12) Not make any changes in financial policies or practices, or
strategic or operating policies or practices, in each case
which involve any Acquired Company;
(13) Comply in all material respects with all applicable material
Legal Requirements and permits, including without limitation
those relating to the filing of reports and the payment of
Taxes due to be paid prior to the Closing, other than those
contested in good faith;
(14) Not adopt, amend (other than amendments that reduce the
amounts payable by SUG or any of its Subsidiaries or
amendments required by law) or assume an obligation to
contribute to any PVY Benefit Plan or collective bargaining
agreement or enter into any employment, consulting, severance
or similar Contract with any Person (including without
limitation, contracts with management of any Acquired Company
or any of its Affiliates that might require payments be made
upon consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby) or
amend any such existing contracts to increase any amounts
payable thereunder or benefits provided thereunder;
(15) Except in the Ordinary Course of Business or as required by
the terms of any existing Contract, PVY Benefit Plan or
collective bargaining agreement, not grant any increase or
change in total compensation, benefits or pay any bonus to
any employee, director or consultant;
(16) Not grant or enter into or extend the term of any Contract
with respect to continued employment or service for any
employee, officer, director or consultant;
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(17) Not make any loan or advance to any officer, director,
stockholder, employee or any other Person other than in the
Ordinary Course of Business;
(18) Not terminate any existing gas purchase, exchange or
transportation contract necessary to supply firm gas at all
city gate delivery points or enter into any new contract for
the supply, transportation, storage or exchange of gas with
respect to the Acquired Companies' regulated gas distribution
operations or renew or extend or negotiate any existing
contract providing for the same where such contract is not
terminable within sixty (60) days without penalty other than
in the Ordinary Course of Business;
(19) Not amend any of its Organizational Documents; and
(20) Subject to Section 6.1(k), not issue or assume any note,
debenture or other evidence of indebtedness which by its
terms does not mature within two years from the date of
execution or issuance thereof, unless otherwise redeemable or
subject to prepayment at any time at the option of the
Acquired Company on not more than thirty (30) days' notice
without penalty for such redemption or prepayment.
(b) CUSTOMER NOTIFICATIONS. At any time and from time to time reasonably
requested by SUG prior to the Closing Date, each Acquired Company will
permit SUG at SUG's expense to insert preprinted single-page customer
education materials into billing documentation to be delivered to
customers affected by this Agreement; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that PVY has
reviewed in advance and consented to the content of such materials,
which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. Other
means of notifying customers may be employed by either party, at the
expense of the initiating party, but in no event shall any notification
be initiated without the prior consent of the other party (which
consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed).
(c) ACCESS TO THE ACQUIRED COMPANIES' OFFICES, PROPERTIES AND RECORDS;
UPDATING INFORMATION.
(1) From and after the date hereof and until the Closing Date,
the Acquired Companies shall permit SUG and its
Representatives to have, on reasonable notice and at
reasonable times, reasonable access to such of the offices,
properties and employees of the Acquired Companies in a
manner that will not unreasonably disrupt the operations of
the Acquired Companies or their relationship with their
customers, suppliers or employees, and shall disclose, and
make available to SUG and its Representatives in a manner
that will not unreasonably disrupt the operations of the
Acquired Companies or their relationship with their
customers, suppliers or employees, all books, papers and
records (other than confidentiality agreements related to a
possible sale of PVY entered into prior to the date of this
Agreement) to the extent that they relate to the ownership,
operation, obligations and liabilities of or pertaining to
the Acquired Companies, their businesses, assets and
liabilities. Without limiting the application of the
Confidentiality Agreement dated October 6, 1999 between PVY
and SUG (the "Confidentiality Agreement"), all documents or
information furnished by the Acquired Companies hereunder
shall be subject to the Confidentiality Agreement.
(2) PVY will notify SUG as promptly as practicable of any
significant change in the Ordinary Course of Business or
operation of any of the Acquired Companies and of any
material complaints, investigations or hearings (or
communications indicating that the same may be contemplated)
by any Governmental Body, or the institution or overt threat
or settlement of any material Proceeding involving or
affecting any of the Acquired Companies or the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement, and shall use reasonable
efforts to keep SUG fully informed of such events and permit
SUG's Representatives access to all materials prepared in
connection therewith, consistent with any applicable Legal
Requirement or Contract.
(3) As promptly as practicable after SUG's request, PVY will
furnish such financial and operating data and other
information pertaining to the Acquired Companies and their
businesses and assets as SUG may reasonably request;
PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that nothing herein will obligate any of
the Acquired Companies to take actions that would
unreasonably disrupt its Ordinary Course of Business or
violate the terms of any Legal Requirement or Contract to
which the Acquired Company is a party or to which any of its
assets is subject in providing such information, or to incur
any costs with respect to SUG's external
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auditors (or the Acquired Companies' external auditors in the
event a report by such auditors is requested by SUG)
providing accounting services with respect to issuing an
auditor's report required by or for SUG.
(d) GOVERNMENTAL APPROVALS; THIRD PARTY CONSENTS. PVY will use its
commercially reasonable best efforts at PVY's sole expense (except as
provided otherwise in the last sentence of Section 6.1(n)) to obtain
all necessary consents, approvals and waivers from any Person required
in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby under any
license, lease, permit or Contract applicable to the Acquired
Companies, including, without limitation, the Letters of Tax Good
Standing referred to in Section 7.1(i), the approvals of those
Governmental Bodies and the consents of those third parties listed in
Section 5.4 and Section 5.5 of the PVY Disclosure Schedule and as
required by the HSR Act.
(e) DIVIDENDS. PVY shall not, nor shall it permit any of its Subsidiaries
to: (i) declare or pay any dividends on or make other distributions in
respect of any of its or their capital stock other than (A) dividends
by a wholly-owned Subsidiary to PVY or another wholly-owned Subsidiary,
(B) dividends by a less than wholly-owned Subsidiary consistent with
past practice, (C) regular quarterly dividends on PVY Common Stock with
usual record and payment dates that do not exceed the current rate of
$1.08 per fiscal year, or (D) regular cumulative cash distributions on
the ProvGas Preferred Stock not to exceed an annual rate of $8.70 per
share; (ii) split, combine or reclassify any capital stock or the
capital stock of any Subsidiary or issue or authorize or propose the
issuance of any other securities in respect of, or in substitution for,
shares of capital stock or the capital stock of any Subsidiary; or
(iii) redeem, repurchase or otherwise acquire any shares of its capital
stock or the capital stock of any Subsidiary other than (A)
redemptions, repurchases and other acquisitions of shares of capital
stock in connection with the administration of employee benefit and
dividend reinvestment and customer stock purchase plans as in effect on
the date hereof in the ordinary course of the operation of such plans
consistent with past practice, (B) intercompany acquisitions of capital
stock, (C) the redemption of the ProvGas Preferred Stock as
contemplated herein or (D) as set forth in Section 6.1(k) of this
Agreement.
(f) ISSUANCE OF SECURITIES. PVY shall not, nor shall it permit any of its
Subsidiaries to, issue, agree to issue, deliver, sell, award, pledge,
dispose of or otherwise encumber or authorize or propose the issuance,
delivery, sale, award, pledge, disposal or other encumbrance of, any
shares of its or their capital stock of any class or any securities
convertible into or exchangeable for, or any rights, warrants or
options to acquire, any such shares or convertible or exchangeable
securities, other than the issuance of shares of PVY Common Stock
pursuant to (i) outstanding grants or awards made prior to the date of
this Agreement under the PVY Benefit Plans and Acquired Company Option
Plans and (ii) any dividend reinvestment plan of PVY in effect as of
the date hereof.
(g) ACCOUNTING. PVY shall not, nor shall it permit any of its Subsidiaries
to, make any changes in their accounting methods, principles or
practices except as required by law, rule, regulation or GAAP. Prior to
the Closing, PVY shall comply with the then current accounting rules
for costs deferred for Y2K.
(h) NO SHOPPING.
(1) PVY shall not, and shall not authorize or permit any of its
(or any of its Subsidiaries') officers, directors, agents,
financial advisors, attorneys, accountants or other
Representatives to, directly or indirectly, solicit, initiate
or encourage submission of proposals or offers from any
Person relating to, or that could reasonably be expected to
lead to, a Business Combination or participate in any
negotiations or substantive discussions regarding, or furnish
to any other Person any information with respect to, or
otherwise cooperate in any way with, or assist or participate
in, facilitate or encourage, any effort or attempt by any
other Person to do or seek a Business Combination; PROVIDED,
HOWEVER, that, prior to the PVY Shareholders' Approval, PVY
may, in response to an unsolicited written proposal from a
third party with respect to a Business Combination that PVY's
Board of Directors determines, in its good faith judgment,
after consultation with and the receipt of the advice of its
financial advisor and outside counsel with customary
qualifications, is a Superior Proposal, (i) furnish
information to, and negotiate, explore or otherwise engage in
substantive discussions with such third party, only if PVY's
Board of Directors determines, in its good faith judgment
after consultation with its financial advisors and outside
legal counsel, that it is reasonably necessary in order to
comply with its fiduciary duties under applicable law and
(ii) take and disclose to PVY's shareholders a position with
respect to another Business Combination
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proposal, or amend or withdraw such position, pursuant to
Rule 14d-9 and 14e-2 under the Exchange Act, or make such
disclosure to PVY's shareholders which in the good faith
judgment of PVY's Board of Directors, based on the advice of
its outside counsel, is required by applicable law. Prior to
furnishing any non-public information to, entering into
negotiations with or accepting a Superior Proposal from such
third party, PVY will (i) provide written notice to SUG to
the effect that it is furnishing information to or entering
into discussions or negotiations with such third party and
(ii) receive from such third party an executed
confidentiality agreement containing substantially the same
terms and conditions as the Confidentiality Agreement. PVY
will immediately cease and cause to be terminated any
existing solicitation, initiation, encouragement, activity,
discussion or negotiations with any parties conducted
heretofore by PVY or any of its representatives with respect
to any Business Combination.
(2) Except as expressly permitted by this Section 6.1(h), neither
the PVY Board of Directors nor any committee thereof may, (i)
withdraw or modify, or propose publicly to withdraw or
modify, in a manner adverse to SUG, the approval or
recommendation by such Board of Directors or such committee
of the Merger or this Agreement, (ii) approve or recommend,
or propose publicly to approve or recommend, a Business
Combination or (iii) cause PVY to enter into any letter of
intent, agreement in principle, acquisition agreement or
other similar agreement related to any Business Combination.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, prior to the time at which the
PVY Shareholders' Approval has been obtained, in response to
an unsolicited Business Combination proposal from a third
party, if PVY's Board of Directors determines, in its good
faith judgment, after consultation with and the receipt of
the advice of its financial advisor and outside counsel with
customary qualifications, that such proposal is a Superior
Proposal and that failure to do any of the actions set forth
in clauses (i), (ii) or (iii) above would create a reasonable
possibility of a breach of the fiduciary duties of PVY's
Board of Directors under applicable law, PVY's Board of
Directors may withdraw or modify its approval or
recommendation of the Merger or this Agreement, approve or
recommend a Business Combination or cause PVY to enter into a
Business Combination or an agreement related to a Business
Combination and, subject to PVY having paid to SUG the fees
described in Section 8.3(a) hereof and having entered into a
definitive agreement with respect to such Business
Combination proposal, terminate this Agreement; PROVIDED,
HOWEVER, that prior to entering into a definitive agreement
with respect to a Business Combination proposal, PVY shall
give SUG at least two (2) business days' notice thereof, and
shall cause its Representatives to, negotiate with SUG to
make such adjustments in the terms and conditions of this
Agreement as would enable PVY to proceed with the
transactions contemplated herein on such adjusted terms;
PROVIDED, FURTHER, that if PVY and SUG are unable to reach an
agreement on such adjustments within two (2) business days
after such notice from PVY, PVY may enter into such
definitive agreement, subject to the provisions of Article
VIII.
(3) PVY shall notify SUG orally and in writing of any such
inquiries, offers or proposals (including the material terms
and conditions of any such offer or proposal and the identity
of the Person making it), within two business days of the
receipt thereof, shall use all reasonable efforts to keep SUG
informed of the status and revised material terms and
conditions of any such inquiry, offer or proposal and shall
give SUG one (1) day's advance notice of the first delivery
of non-public information to such Person. If any such
inquiry, offer or proposal is in writing, PVY shall promptly
deliver to SUG a copy of such inquiry, offer or proposal.
(4) For purposes of this Agreement, (i) "Business Combination"
means (other than the transactions contemplated or permitted
by this Agreement) (A) a merger, consolidation or other
business combination, share exchange, sale of a minimum of 2%
of the outstanding shares of capital stock, tender offer or
exchange offer or similar transaction involving PVY or any of
its Subsidiaries, (B) acquisition in any manner, directly or
indirectly, of a material interest in any capital stock of,
or a material equity interest in a substantial portion of the
assets of, PVY or any of its Subsidiaries, including any
single or multi-step transaction or series of related
transactions that is structured to permit a third party to
acquire beneficial ownership of a majority or greater equity
interest in PVY or any of its Subsidiaries, or (C) the
acquisition in any manner, directly or indirectly, of any
material portion of the business or assets (other than
inventory in the Ordinary Course of Business) of PVY or any
of its Subsidiaries and (ii) "Superior Proposal" means a
proposed Business Combination involving at least 50% of the
shares of capital stock or a material portion of the assets
of PVY that PVY's Board of Directors determines, after
consulting with PVY's
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financial advisors and outside counsel, is financially
superior to the transactions contemplated hereby and it
appears that the party making the proposal is reasonably
likely to have the funds necessary to consummate the Business
Combination.
(i) SOLICITATION OF PROXIES. Subject to Section 6.1(h), PVY shall use its
reasonable best efforts to solicit from its shareholders proxies in
favor of the Merger and shall take all other action necessary to secure
the PVY Shareholders' Approval. PVY shall cause ProvGas and Attleboro
to approve the ProvGas Merger and the Attleboro Merger.
(j) PVY SHAREHOLDERS' APPROVAL.
(1) Subject to the provisions of Section 6.1(h) and Section
6.1(j)(2), PVY shall, as soon as reasonably practicable after
the date hereof (i) take all steps necessary to duly call,
give notice of, convene and hold a meeting of its
shareholders (including all adjournments thereof, the "PVY
Meeting") for the purpose of securing the PVY Shareholders'
Approval, (ii) distribute to its shareholders the Proxy
Statement in accordance with applicable federal and state law
and with its Organizational Documents, (iii) subject to the
fiduciary duties of its Board of Directors, recommend to its
shareholders the approval of this Agreement and the
transactions contemplated hereby and (iv) cooperate and
consult with SUG with respect to each of the foregoing
matters.
(2) The PVY Meeting for the purpose of securing the PVY
Shareholders' Approval, including any adjournments thereof,
will be held on such date or dates as PVY and SUG mutually
determine.
(k) FINANCING ACTIVITIES. PVY shall, and shall cause its Subsidiaries to,
cooperate, to the fullest extent commercially reasonable and
practicable, with SUG's requests with respect to refinancing by the
Acquired Companies of the current maturities of any of their
indebtedness, and any repurchase, redemption or prepayment by any of
the Acquired Companies of any of its indebtedness or preferred stock
that may be required because of the Mergers or that SUG may request
that the Acquired Companies effect, so as to permit SUG to have the
maximum opportunity to refinance, on or promptly after the Closing Date
without any penalty except as may be due pursuant to the terms of the
Acquired Companies' indebtedness and preferred stock as in effect on
the date of this Agreement, any of the Acquired Companies' indebtedness
or preferred stock outstanding on the Closing Date; PROVIDED, HOWEVER,
that, except as provided in Section 6.1(m), no Acquired Company shall
be required to consummate prior to the Effective Time any such
refinancing, repurchase, redemption or repayment requested by SUG.
(l) PVY DISCLOSURE SCHEDULE. On the date hereof, PVY has delivered to SUG
the PVY Disclosure Schedule, accompanied by a certificate signed by an
executive officer of PVY stating the PVY Disclosure Schedule is being
delivered pursuant to this Section 6.1(l). The PVY Disclosure Schedule
constitutes an integral part of this Agreement and modifies the
representations, warranties, covenants or agreements of PVY contained
herein to the extent that such representations, warranties, covenants
or agreements expressly refer to the PVY Disclosure Schedule; provided
that (i) terms used in the PVY Disclosure Schedule, unless otherwise
defined, shall have the meanings, if any, ascribed to them in this
Agreement, (ii) information provided in one section of the PVY
Disclosure Schedule shall suffice, without repetition or
cross-reference, as a disclosure of such information in any other
relevant section of the PVY Disclosure Schedule if the disclosure in
the first section is sufficient on its face without further inquiry to
reasonably inform SUG of the information required to be disclosed in
such other sections of the PVY Disclosure Schedule in order to avoid a
breach under the counterpart sections of this Agreement and (iii) the
inclusion of any item in the PVY Disclosure Schedule shall not
establish any threshold of materiality.
(m) REDEMPTION OF PROVGAS PREFERRED STOCK. PVY shall cause ProvGas (i) to
redeem 16,000 shares of ProvGas Preferred Stock on February 15, 2000
pursuant to Section 4 of the Certificate of Authorization for the
ProvGas Preferred Stock, and (ii) to redeem the remaining 16,000 shares
of ProvGas Preferred Stock on March 1, 2000 pursuant to Section 4 of
such Certificate of Authorization.
(n) AMENDMENT OF PROVGAS INDENTURE. PVY shall cause ProvGas to use its good
faith commercially reasonable efforts to obtain prior to the Effective
Time the consent of holders of at least 80% in aggregate principal
amount of all First Mortgage Bonds outstanding under the ProvGas
Indenture to each of the amendments to the ProvGas Indenture described
on Schedule 6.1(n) hereto; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that PVY and its
Subsidiaries shall not be required to make
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any payment to any holder of First Mortgage Bonds prior to the
Effective Time, other than such payments that are required to be made
under the ProvGas Indenture, which payments ProvGas shall make as
required under the ProvGas Indenture. If this Agreement is terminated
and the Mergers do not occur, (i) within 30 days after the termination
of this Agreement, PVY shall provide SUG with a schedule showing the
reasonable out-of-pocket fees and reasonable out-of-pocket expenses,
including fees and expenses of a solicitation agent, an information
agent, and legal fees and expenses, incurred by or on behalf of PVY
and ProvGas in connection with complying with the covenant set forth
in the preceding sentence (excluding payments made to holders of the
First Mortgage Bonds), (ii) within 30 days after the termination of
this Agreement, SUG shall provide PVY with a schedule showing the
reasonable out-of-pocket fees and reasonable out-of-pocket expenses,
including legal fees and expenses, incurred by or on behalf of SUG in
connection with the solicitation of consents described in the
preceding sentence (excluding payments made to holders of the First
Mortgage Bonds), (iii) if PVY's fees and expenses, as set forth on the
schedule provided by PVY pursuant hereto, exceed SUG's fees and
expenses, as set forth on the schedule provided by SUG pursuant
hereto, SUG shall pay PVY 50% of such excess within 60 days after the
termination of this Agreement, and (iv) if SUG's fees and expenses, as
set forth on the schedule provided by SUG pursuant hereto, exceed
PVY's fees and expenses, as set forth on the schedule provided by PVY
pursuant hereto, PVY shall pay SUG 50% of such excess within 60 days
after the termination of this Agreement; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that if
this Agreement is terminated based on the breach by any party of its
obligations under this Agreement, such breaching party shall bear its
own such fees and expenses and shall pay the non-breaching party the
fees and expenses, as set forth on the applicable schedule provided in
accordance with this section by the non-breaching party, within 60
days after the termination of this Agreement.
SECTION 6.2 COVENANTS OF SUG. SUG agrees to observe and perform the following
covenants and agreements:
(a) GOVERNMENTAL APPROVALS; THIRD PARTY CONSENTS. SUG will use its
commercially reasonable best efforts at SUG's sole expense to obtain
all necessary consents, approvals and waivers from any Person required
in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby under any
license, lease, permit, Contract or agreement applicable to SUG,
including, without limitation, the approvals of those Governmental
Bodies listed in Section 4.3 of the SUG Disclosure Schedule and as
required by the HSR Act.
(b) EMPLOYEES; BENEFITS. With respect to the employees of the Acquired
Companies (excluding unionized employees) (the "Employees"), except as
otherwise specified herein, SUG agrees as follows:
(1) To assume and maintain for their term all employment and
change in control agreements of PVY in effect as of the
Effective Time;
(2) During the 24 months immediately following the Closing Date,
to maintain for the Employees who continue their service with
SUG or any Subsidiary of SUG base salary levels, bonus
opportunity levels and overall employee benefits (other than
the 1989 Stock Option Plan, the 1989 Non-Employee Director
Stock Option Plan, the Non-Employee Director Stock Plan, the
1998 Performance Share Plan, the Restricted Stock Incentive
Plan and the Employee Stock Purchase Plan, all of which shall
be terminated as of the Closing Date) that are no less
favorable in the aggregate than those currently provided to
Employees generally, except for any changes made to comply
with applicable law or tax qualification nondiscrimination
rules; provided, however, that (i) during such 24-month
period, all PVY qualified and non-qualified defined benefit
pension plans shall be maintained without adverse amendment
or modification, except for any changes made to comply with
applicable law or, in the case of the PVY tax-qualified
defined benefit plan, tax qualification nondiscrimination
rules; and (ii), with respect to any severance from
employment occurring during such 24-month period, to provide
severance benefits to such Employees on a basis no less
favorable than would otherwise be provided to such Employees
under the applicable severance pay plans of PVY as in effect
on the date of this Agreement. After the 24 months
immediately following the Closing Date, SUG agrees to
maintain during the next 24-month period, for Employees who
continue their service with SUG or any Subsidiary of SUG,
base salary levels, bonus opportunity and overall employee
benefits that are appropriate for the market given SUG's
financial circumstances, the industry in which it operates,
and regulatory considerations. Nothing in this Agreement
shall restrict, limit or interfere with the ability (after
the Closing Date) of SUG to terminate, amend or
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replace any particular agreement, plan or program, or
terminate the employment of any person, provided that the
requirements of this Section 6.2(b)(2) are otherwise
satisfied.
(3) For purposes of eligibility, vesting and benefit accrual
under all benefit plans provided to the Employees after the
Closing Date, SUG will recognize the tenure of employment, as
recognized by the Acquired Companies as of the Closing Date.
(4) All vacation time earned by the Employees prior to the
Closing Date must be taken by the end of the calendar year in
which the Closing Date occurs, except where the Employee is
requested by PVY or SUG to forego their vacation for
business-related reasons. For purposes of awarding vacation
time at the beginning of each calendar year following the
Closing Date, SUG will recognize the tenure of employment, as
recognized by the Acquired Company as of the Closing Date.
(5) SUG will permit each of the Employees to carry forward all
days of sick leave accrued prior to the Closing Date.
(6) Effective immediately following the Closing Date, each
Employee who satisfies the eligibility criteria used by SUG
for similarly situated employees of SUG shall be eligible for
awards under SUG's Long-Term Incentive Stock Option Plan. SUG
represents that, as of the date of this Agreement, such plan
is the only plan in which SUG employees actively participate
which provides benefits in the form of SUG capital stock,
other than the SUG Employee Stock Purchase Plan or SUG
tax-qualified or supplemental retirement plans.
(7) For a five (5) year period from the Closing Date, SUG agrees
to provide retiree medical plan coverage which is
substantially comparable to the coverage under the PVY
retiree medical plan as of the date hereof, subject to SUG's
right to adjust copayment and cost sharing provisions (which
may be continued in the same proportions to the PVY-provided
portions of cost) to any former Employee (and his or her
eligible dependents) who is currently receiving such benefits
thereunder, or any active Employee (and his or her eligible
dependents) who would be eligible for such benefits if he or
she retired on the Closing Date (or who, within five (5)
years of the Closing Date, retires and is eligible to receive
benefits thereunder).
(c) WARN. Neither SUG nor any Acquired Company shall, at any time prior to
90 days after the Effective Time, effectuate a "plant closing" or "mass
layoff," as those terms are defined in the Worker Adjustment and
Retraining Notification Act of 1988, as amended ("WARN"), affecting in
whole or in part any site of employment, facility, operating unit or
employee without complying with the notice requirements and other
provisions of WARN.
(d) DIRECTORS. Immediately after the Effective Time on the Closing Date,
the Chief Executive Officer of PVY immediately prior to the Effective
Time shall be elected to the Board of Directors of SUG, and thereafter
nominated and recommended for reelection if necessary such that such
individual shall have a term of at least three years from the Closing
Date, and such individual shall hold office in accordance with the
Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws of SUG; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that
if such individual is also an officer or employee of SUG, such
individual shall be required to resign as a director of SUG if he
resigns or is terminated as an officer or employee of SUG.
(e) OFFICERS OF PVY DIVISION OF SUG.
(1) From the Effective Time until the earlier of their
resignation or removal by the President of SUG, (i) Mr. James
Dodge shall serve as Chief Executive Officer and President
and (ii) James DeMetro shall serve as Executive Vice
President, Energy Services, in each case, of the PVY Division
of SUG and all other energy-related businesses of SUG
conducted in New England.
(2) From the Effective Time until the earlier of their
resignation or removal by SUG, the following individuals
shall serve the PVY Division of SUG in the following
capacities:
Kenneth Hogan as Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
and Treasurer
Susann G. Mark as Vice President and General Counsel
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James A. Grasso as Vice President, Public Government
Affairs
Gerald A. Yurkevicz as Vice President, Business Development
and Marketing
Royalynne Hourihan as Vice President, Human Resources
Timothy S. Lyons as Vice President, Marketing and
Regulatory Affairs
Robert W. Owens as Senior Vice President, Gas Distribution
Peter J. Gill as Vice President, Information Technology
James M. Stephens as President of Providence Energy
Services
Paul E. O'Keefe as General Manager of Providence Energy Oil
George Mason as Vice President of Providence Energy Oil
The provisions of this Section 6.2(e) are subject to the
specific terms of the employment contracts referred to in
Section 6.2(b)(1), and the duties and responsibilities
attributable to the positions referred to in Section 6.2(e)
shall be as set forth in such contracts.
(f) CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS. SUG will maintain PVY's charitable
contributions for at least the calendar year in which the Effective
Time occurs and the next two calendar years thereafter at no less than
$175,000, which PVY represents is the current year budget for the
fiscal year ending September 30, 2000.
(g) CORPORATE OFFICES. For at least three years after the Effective Time,
SUG will operate the Acquired Companies' operations in Rhode Island and
Massachusetts as a separate division of SUG. For at least three years
after the Effective Time, SUG will maintain the principal executive
offices of the Acquired Companies in Rhode Island and, for at least
three years after the Effective Time, SUG will maintain such Rhode
Island offices as the principal executive offices for all of SUG's
energy-related businesses conducted in New England; PROVIDED, HOWEVER,
that SUG will not be required to maintain such Rhode Island offices as
the principal executive offices for all of SUG's energy-related
businesses conducted in New England if Mr. James Dodge ceases to be the
Chief Executive Officer of the PVY Division of SUG.
(h) COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENTS. At the Effective Time, SUG agrees to
assume all collective bargaining agreements covering employees of any
Acquired Company, and shall discharge when due any and all liabilities
of any Acquired Company under such collective bargaining agreements
relating to periods after the Effective Time.
(i) SUG DISCLOSURE SCHEDULE. On the date hereof, SUG has delivered to PVY
the SUG Disclosure Schedule, accompanied by a certificate signed by an
executive officer of SUG stating that the SUG Disclosure Schedule is
being delivered pursuant to this Section 6.2(i). The SUG Disclosure
Schedule constitutes an integral part of this Agreement and modifies
the representations, warranties, covenants or agreements of SUG
contained herein to the extent that such representations, warranties,
covenants or agreements expressly refer to the SUG Disclosure Schedule;
provided that (i) terms used in the SUG Disclosure Schedule, unless
otherwise defined, shall have the meanings, if any, ascribed to them in
this Agreement, (ii) information provided in one section of the SUG
Disclosure Schedule shall suffice, without repetition or
cross-reference, as a disclosure of such information in any other
relevant section of the SUG Disclosure Schedule if the disclosure in
the first section is sufficient on its face without further inquiry to
reasonably inform PVY of the information required to be disclosed in
such other sections of the SUG Disclosure Schedule in order to avoid a
breach under the counterpart sections of this Agreement and (iii) the
inclusion of any item in the SUG Disclosure Schedule shall not
establish any threshold of materiality.
SECTION 6.3 ADDITIONAL AGREEMENTS.
(a) THE PROXY STATEMENT. As soon as practicable after the date hereof, PVY
shall take such reasonable steps as are necessary for the prompt
preparation and filing with the SEC of a proxy statement relating to
the PVY Meeting (together with any amendments thereto or supplements
thereto, the "Proxy Statement"). Each of SUG and PVY shall furnish all
information concerning it, its officers and directors, and the holders
of its capital stock as the other may reasonably request in connection
with the preparation and filing of the Proxy Statement. PVY will use
all commercially reasonable efforts to cause the Proxy Statement to be
cleared by the SEC as promptly as practicable after filing and as
promptly as practicable after such clearance, PVY shall mail the Proxy
Statement to its stockholders entitled to notice of and to vote at the
PVY Meeting. As promptly as practical after consultation between SUG
and PVY, PVY shall respond to any comments made by the SEC with respect
to the Proxy Statement.
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(ii) The information supplied by PVY for inclusion or
incorporation by reference in the Proxy Statement shall not,
at the date of the mailing of the Proxy Statement (or any
supplement thereto) and at the time of the PVY Meeting,
contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to
state any material fact required to be stated therein or
necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the
light of the circumstances under which they were made, not
misleading. If at any time prior to PVY Meeting any event or
circumstance relating to PVY or any of its Subsidiaries, or
its or their respective officers or directors, should be
discovered by PVY that should be set forth in a supplement to
the Proxy Statement, PVY shall promptly inform SUG. All
documents that PVY is responsible for filing with the SEC in
connection with the transactions contemplated herein shall
comply as to form in all material respects with the
applicable requirements of the Securities Act and the
regulations thereunder and the Exchange Act and the
regulations thereunder.
(iii)The information supplied by SUG for inclusion or
incorporation by reference in the Proxy Statement shall not,
at the date of the mailing of the Proxy Statement (or any
supplement thereto), at the time of the PVY Meeting, contain
any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any
material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in
order to make the statements therein, in the light of the
circumstances under which they are made, not misleading. If
at any time prior to the PVY Meeting any event or
circumstance relating to SUG or any of its Subsidiaries, or
to their respective officers or directors, should be
discovered by SUG that should be set forth in a supplement to
the Proxy Statement, SUG shall promptly inform PVY.
(iv) No representation, warranty, covenant or agreement is made by
or on behalf of PVY with respect to information supplied by
any other Person for inclusion in the Proxy Statement. No
representation, warranty, covenant or agreement is made by or
on behalf of SUG with respect to information supplied by any
other Person for inclusion in the Proxy Statement. No filing
of, or amendment or supplement to, the Proxy Statement shall
be made by PVY without providing SUG with the opportunity to
review and comment thereon (except for any ongoing SEC
reporting required of PVY or ProvGas that will be
incorporated by reference). If at any time prior to the PVY
Meeting any information relating to any party hereto or any
of their respective officers, directors, shareholders or
Subsidiaries, should be discovered by any party hereto which
should be set forth in an amendment or supplement to the
Proxy Statement so that the Proxy Statement would not include
any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any
material fact necessary to make the statements therein, in
light of the circumstances under which they were made, not
misleading, the party which discovers such information shall
promptly notify the other party hereto and an appropriate
amendment or supplement describing such information shall be
promptly prepared, filed with the SEC and, to the extent
required by law, disseminated to the shareholders of PVY.
(b) FURTHER ASSURANCES. Each of SUG and PVY agrees, and PVY agrees to cause
its Subsidiaries, to take all such reasonable and lawful action as may
be necessary or appropriate in order to effectuate the Mergers in
accordance with this Agreement as promptly as possible. If, at any time
after the Effective Time, any such further action is necessary or
desirable to carry out the purpose of this Agreement and to vest SUG
with full right, title and possession to all assets, property, rights,
privileges, powers and franchises of the Acquired Companies, the
officers and directors of SUG will be fully authorized to take, and
will take, all such lawful and necessary action.
(c) FINANCIAL STATEMENTS TO BE PROVIDED. Upon SUG's request, PVY shall (i)
provide to SUG audited and unaudited financial statements required to
be included in the proxy statements and the registration statement
contemplated by the Agreement of Merger, dated as of October 4, 1999,
by and between SUG and Fall River Gas Company and (ii) cause its
independent accountants to deliver to SUG and Fall River Gas Company
the required consents in connection therewith.
ARTICLE VII
CONDITIONS
SECTION 7.1 CONDITIONS TO SUG'S OBLIGATION TO EFFECT THE MERGER. The obligations
of SUG and Newco to effect the
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transactions contemplated by this Agreement shall be subject to fulfillment at
or prior to the Closing of the following conditions:
(a) REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES TRUE AS OF THE CLOSING DATE. PVY's
representations and warranties in this Agreement shall have been
accurate in all respects as of the date of this Agreement and shall be
accurate in all respects as of the Closing Date as if made on the
Closing Date, except for such inaccuracies (without regard to any
materiality qualifications contained therein) which, individually and
in the aggregate, would not be reasonably likely to result in a PVY
Material Adverse Effect.
(b) COMPLIANCE WITH AGREEMENTS. The covenants, agreements and conditions
required by this Agreement to be performed and complied with by any of
the Acquired Companies shall have been performed and complied with in
all material respects prior to or at the Closing Date.
(c) CERTIFICATE. PVY shall execute and deliver to SUG a certificate of an
authorized officer of PVY, dated the Closing Date, stating that the
conditions specified in Sections 7.1(a) and 7.1(b) of this Agreement
have been satisfied.
(d) GOVERNMENTAL APPROVALS. All approvals, consents, opinions or rulings of
all Governmental Bodies required in order to consummate the
transactions contemplated hereby shall have been obtained by Final
Order in such form as are not, and with no conditions that are,
individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely to have a PVY
Material Adverse Effect or a material adverse effect on the business,
financial condition or results of operations of SUG, or which would
otherwise, in the reasonable determination of SUG, be unduly burdensome
to SUG in a manner that would be, individually or in the aggregate,
reasonably likely to have a PVY Material Adverse Effect or a material
adverse effect on the business, financial condition or results of
operations of SUG. The applicable waiting period under the HSR Act with
respect to the transactions contemplated hereby shall have expired or
have been terminated.
(e) THIRD PARTY CONSENTS. Each of the consents required under Section 5.4
of this Agreement shall have been obtained to the reasonable
satisfaction of SUG, other than any such consents which, if not
obtained, are not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably likely
to result in a PVY Material Adverse Effect after the Closing. In
addition, the consent of the holders of at least 80% in aggregate
principal amount of all First Mortgage Bonds outstanding under the
ProvGas Indenture to each of the amendments to the ProvGas Indenture
described on Schedule 6.1(n) hereto shall have been obtained.
(f) INJUNCTIONS. On the Closing Date, there shall be no Orders which
operate to restrain, enjoin or otherwise prevent the consummation of
this Agreement or the Mergers.
(g) RESIGNATIONS. Each director of each Acquired Company shall, if
requested by SUG, resign any position as a director of an Acquired
Company effective as of the Closing Date in accordance with such
Acquired Company's Organizational Documents and applicable provisions
of the RIBCA or MBCL, as the case may be; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that such
resignations shall not cause the termination of any such Person's
employment as an employee of an Acquired Company or reduce any such
employee's then current level of compensation.
(h) SHAREHOLDER APPROVALS. The PVY Shareholders' Approval shall have been
obtained, and all of the outstanding shares of the ProvGas Preferred
Stock shall have been redeemed in accordance with the Organizational
Documents of ProvGas.
(i) TAX GOOD STANDING. Letters of Tax Good Standing shall have been
obtained for PVY and ProvGas from the Rhode Island Department of
Taxation.
(j) CONVERSION OF OPTIONS. All directors who have options outstanding under
the 1989 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan shall have consented
to the conversion of such options into a right to receive in respect
thereof a cash payment on the basis set forth in Section 3.3.
SECTION 7.2 CONDITIONS TO PVY'S OBLIGATIONS TO EFFECT THE MERGERS. The
obligation of PVY to effect the transactions contemplated by this Agreement
shall be subject to fulfillment at or prior to the Closing of the following
conditions:
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(a) REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES TRUE AS OF THE CLOSING DATE. SUG's
representations and warranties in this Agreement shall have been
accurate in all respects as of the date of this Agreement and shall be
accurate in all respects as of the Closing Date as if made on the
Closing Date, except for such inaccuracies (without regard to any
materiality qualifications contained herein) which, individually and in
the aggregate, would not be reasonably likely to result in a SUG
Material Adverse Effect.
(b) COMPLIANCE WITH AGREEMENTS. The covenants, agreements and conditions
required by this Agreement to be performed and complied with by SUG
shall have been performed and complied with in all material respects
prior to or at the Closing Date.
(c) CERTIFICATE. SUG shall execute and deliver to PVY a certificate of an
authorized officer of SUG, dated the Closing Date, stating that the
conditions specified in Sections 7.2(a) and 7.2(b) of this Agreement
have been satisfied.
(d) GOVERNMENTAL APPROVALS. All approvals, consents, opinions or rulings of
all Governmental Bodies required in order to consummate the
transactions contemplated hereby shall have been obtained by Final
Order. The applicable waiting period under the HSR Act with respect to
the transactions contemplated hereby shall have expired or have been
terminated.
(e) INJUNCTIONS. On the Closing Date, there shall be no Orders which
operate to restrain, enjoin or otherwise prevent the consummation of
this Agreement or the Mergers.
(f) SHAREHOLDER APPROVALS. The PVY Shareholders' Approval shall have been
obtained.
ARTICLE VIII
TERMINATION
SECTION 8.1 TERMINATION RIGHTS. This Agreement may be terminated in its
entirety at any time prior to the Closing:
(a) By the mutual written consent of SUG and PVY;
(b) By PVY, on the one hand, or SUG, on the other hand, in writing if there
shall be in effect a non-appealable order of a court of competent
jurisdiction prohibiting the consummation of the Mergers in accordance
with this Agreement;
(c) By PVY, by written notice to SUG, if there is a breach of any
representation or warranty of SUG, which breach cannot be cured and
would cause the conditions set forth in Section 7.2(a) to be incapable
of being satisfied;
(d) By SUG, by written notice to PVY, if there is a breach of any
representation or warranty of PVY, which breach cannot be cured and
would cause the conditions set forth in Section 7.1(a) to be incapable
of being satisfied;
(e) By PVY, by written notice to SUG in accordance with Section 6.1(h)(2);
PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that the termination described in this clause (e)
shall not be effective unless and until PVY shall have paid SUG the fee
described in Section 8.3(a) and PVY has substantially contemporaneously
entered into a definitive agreement with respect to the proposed
Business Combination;
(f) By PVY, by written notice to SUG, if the PVY Shareholders' Approval is
not obtained at the PVY Meeting upon the taking of such vote including
all adjournments, or by SUG, by written notice to PVY, if the PVY
Shareholders' Approval is not obtained at the PVY Meeting upon the
taking of such vote including all adjournments;
(g) By SUG, by written notice to PVY, if the Board of Directors of PVY or
any committee thereof (i) withdraws or modifies, or proposes publicly
to withdraw or modify, in a manner adverse to SUG, the approval or
recommendation by the Board of Directors or such committee of the
Merger or this Agreement, (ii) approves or recommends, or proposes
publicly to approve or recommend, a Business Combination, (iii) causes
PVY to enter into a definitive agreement related to any Business
Combination, (iv) resolves to take any of the actions specified in
clause (i), (ii)
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and (iii) above or (v) fails to cause ProvGas to redeem all of the
outstanding shares of ProvGas Preferred Stock as provided in Section
6.1(m);
(h) By SUG, by written notice to PVY, if a third party, including a group
(as defined under the Exchange Act), acquires securities representing
greater than 50% of the voting power of the outstanding voting
securities of PVY; or
(i) By either party in writing at any time after 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time on
November 15, 2000 (the "Initial Termination Date"), if the Closing has
not occurred prior thereto; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that the right to
terminate this Agreement under this Section 8.1(i) will not be
available to any party that is in material breach of its
representations, warranties, covenants or agreements contained herein;
and PROVIDED, FURTHER, that if on the Initial Termination Date (i) the
conditions to closing set forth in Sections 7.1(d) and 7.2(d) shall not
have been fulfilled or (ii) any approval or authorization of any
Governmental Body required in connection with the consummation of the
Mergers shall have not been obtained and such approval or
authorizations shall not have become a Final Order, but all other
conditions to Closing shall be fulfilled or shall be capable of being
fulfilled, then the Initial Termination Date will be extended to April
1, 2001.
SECTION 8.2 EFFECT OF TERMINATION. If this Agreement is terminated pursuant to
Section 8.1, this Agreement shall be of no further force and effect and there
shall be no further liability hereunder on the part of any party or its
Affiliates, directors, officers, shareholders, agents or other Representatives;
PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that (i) any fee payable under Section 8.3(a) is paid to SUG
and (ii) no such termination shall relieve any party of liability for any
claims, damages or losses suffered by the other party as a result of the
negligent or willful failure of a party to perform any obligations required to
be performed by it hereunder on or prior to the date of termination.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, the provisions of
Section 8.2, Sections 10.1 through 10.6 and Sections 10.8 through 10.11 of this
Agreement shall survive any termination of this Agreement.
SECTION 8.3 TERMINATION FEE; EXPENSES.
(a) TERMINATION FEE. If this Agreement is terminated pursuant to Section
8.1(e), 8.1(g) or 8.1(h), then PVY shall pay to SUG promptly (but not
later than five business days after notice is received from PVY) an
amount equal to $7.5 million in cash.
(b) EXPENSES. The parties agree that the agreements contained in this
Section 8.3 are an integral part of the transactions contemplated by
this Agreement and constitute liquidated damages and not a penalty.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Section 8.3,
if PVY fails to pay promptly to SUG the fee due under Section 8.3(a),
in addition to any amounts paid or payable pursuant to Section 8.3(a),
PVY shall pay the costs and expenses (including legal fees and
expenses) in connection with any action, including the filing of any
lawsuit or other legal action, taken to collect payment, together with
interest on the amount of any unpaid fee calculated using an annual
percentage rate of interest equal to the prime rate published in THE
WALL STREET JOURNAL on the date (or preceding business day if such date
is not a business day) such fee was required to be paid, compounded on
a daily basis using a 360-day year.
ARTICLE IX
INDEMNIFICATION; REMEDIES
SECTION 9.1 DIRECTORS' AND OFFICER'S INDEMNIFICATION.
(a) INDEMNIFICATION AND INSURANCE. For a period of six years after the
Effective Time, SUG will indemnify and hold harmless the present and
former officers and directors of PVY and its Subsidiaries (the
"Indemnified Parties") in respect of acts or omissions occurring prior
to the Effective Time to the extent provided under PVY's articles of
incorporation and bylaws in effect on the date hereof; PROVIDED,
HOWEVER, that if any claim or claims are asserted or made within such
six-year period, all rights to indemnification in respect of such
claims shall continue until the final disposition of any and all such
claims. For six years after the Effective Time, SUG will use its
reasonable best efforts to provide officers' and directors' liability
insurance in respect of acts or omissions occurring prior to the
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Effective Time covering each such person currently covered by PVY's
officers' and directors' liability insurance policy on terms with
respect to coverage and amount no less favorable than those of such
policy in effect on the date hereof; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that in
satisfying its obligation under this Section, if the annual premiums of
such insurance coverage exceed 200% of the previous year's premiums,
SUG will be obligated to obtain a policy with the best coverage
available, in the reasonable judgment of the Board of Directors of SUG,
for a cost not exceeding such amount.
(b) SUCCESSORS. In the event SUG or any of its successors or assigns (i)
consolidates with or merges into any other Person and is not the
continuing or surviving corporation or entity of such consolidation or
merger or (ii) transfers all or substantially all of its properties and
assets to any Person, then and in either such case, proper provisions
must be made so that the successors and assigns of SUG will assume the
obligations set forth in this Section 9.1.
(c) SURVIVAL OF INDEMNIFICATION. To the fullest extent permitted by law,
from and after the Effective Time, all rights to indemnification as of
the date hereof in favor of the employees, agents, directors and
officers of any Acquired Company with respect to their activities as
such prior to the Effective Time, as provided in their respective
Organizational Documents in effect on the date hereof, or otherwise in
effect on the date hereof, will survive the Mergers and will continue
in full force and effect except for amendments to make changes
permitted by law that would enhance the rights of past or present
officers and directors to indemnification or advancement of expenses in
respect of acts or omissions occurring prior to the Effective Time. for
a period of not less than six years from the Effective Time (or, in the
case of matters occurring prior to the Effective Time which have not
been resolved prior to the sixth anniversary of the Effective Time,
until such matters are finally resolved).
SECTION 9.2 REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. Each and every representation and
warranty of either party shall expire at, and be terminated and extinguished
with, the Effective Time.
ARTICLE X
GENERAL PROVISIONS
SECTION 10.1 EXPENSES. Each of the parties will pay all costs and expenses of
its performance of and compliance with this Agreement, except (i) as provided in
the last sentence of Section 6.1(n) or Section 8.3 and as expressly provided
otherwise herein, (ii) PVY shall pay all fees and expenses of counsel for PVY,
(iii) SUG shall pay all fees and expenses of counsel for SUG and Newco, (iv) SUG
will pay all real estate transfer taxes and real estate recording fees, if any,
including expenses of counsel associated with real estate title, transfer and
recording issues in connection with the Mergers, and all filing and application
fees paid to Governmental Bodies in connection with the Mergers and (v) PVY will
pay all of the costs of printing and mailing the Proxy Statement to the PVY
stockholders.
SECTION 10.2 NOTICES. All notices, requests and other communications hereunder
shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been given upon receipt if
either (a) personally delivered, (b) sent by prepaid first class mail, and
registered or certified and a return receipt requested or (c) by facsimile
telecopier with completed transmission acknowledged:
if to SUG or to Newco, to:
Southern Union Company
504 Lavaca Street, Suite 800
Austin, Texas 78701
Attention: Peter H. Kelley
President and Chief Operating Officer
Telecopier: (512) 477-3879
with a copy to:
Hughes Hubbard & Reed LLP
One Battery Park Plaza
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New York, New York 10004
Attention: Garett J. Albert
Telecopier: (212) 422-4726
if to PVY, to:
Providence Energy Corporation
100 Weybosset Street
Providence, Rhode Island 02903
Attention: James H. Dodge
Chairman, President and CEO
Telecopier: (401) 421-4887
with a copy to:
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett
425 Lexington Avenue
New York, New York 10017
Attention: Peter J. Gordon
Telecopier: (212) 455-2502
or at such other address or number as shall be given in writing by a party to
the other parties.
SECTION 10.3 ASSIGNMENT. This Agreement may not be assigned by any party hereto
without the prior written consent of the other parties hereto. Any assignment in
violation of the terms of this Agreement shall be null and void AB INITIO.
SECTION 10.4 SUCCESSOR BOUND. Subject to the provisions of Section 10.3, this
Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto
and their respective successors and permitted assigns.
SECTION 10.5 GOVERNING LAW; FORUM; CONSENT TO JURISDICTION. This Agreement shall
be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of the State of New
York except to the extent that the terms and consummation of the Mergers are
subject to the DGCL, the RIBCA or the MBCL, in which case such laws shall
govern. Each party to this Agreement hereby irrevocably and unconditionally (i)
consents to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the federal courts of the
Southern District of New York in the county of New York and the borough of
Manhattan for any proceeding arising in connection with this Agreement (and each
such party agrees not to commence any such proceeding, except in such courts),
(ii) to the extent such party is not a resident of the State of New York, agrees
to appoint an agent in the State of New York as such party's agent for
acceptance of legal process in any such proceeding against such party with the
same legal force and validity as if served upon such party personally within the
State of New York, and to notify promptly each other party hereto of the name
and address of such agent, (iii) waives any objection to the laying of venue of
any such proceeding in the federal courts of the Southern District of New York
in the county of New York and the borough of Manhattan, and (iv) waives, and
agrees not to plead or to make, any claim that any such proceeding brought in
any federal court of the Southern District of New York has been brought in an
improper or otherwise inconvenient forum.
SECTION 10.6 WAIVER OF TRIAL BY JURY. EACH PARTY TO THIS AGREEMENT HEREBY WAIVES
TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY ACTION OR PROCEEDING TO WHICH ANY SUCH PARTY MAY BE A PARTY
ARISING OUT OF OR IN ANY WAY PERTAINING TO (i) THIS AGREEMENT, (ii) THE MERGERS,
(iii) THE CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT OR (iv) ANY RELATED DOCUMENTS. IT IS AGREED
AND UNDERSTOOD THAT THIS WAIVER CONSTITUTES A WAIVER OF TRIAL BY JURY OF ALL
CLAIMS AGAINST ALL PARTIES WHO ARE PARTIES TO THIS AGREEMENT. THIS WAIVER IS
KNOWINGLY, WILLINGLY AND VOLUNTARILY MADE BY EACH PARTY HERETO, AND EACH SUCH
PARTY HEREBY REPRESENTS AND WARRANTS THAT NO REPRESENTATIONS OF FACT OR OPINION
HAVE BEEN MADE BY ANY PERSON TO INDUCE THIS WAIVER OR TRIAL BY JURY OR TO IN ANY
WAY MODIFY OR NULLIFY ITS EFFECT. EACH PARTY TO THIS AGREEMENT FURTHER
REPRESENTS AND WARRANTS THAT EACH SUCH PARTY HAS BEEN REPRESENTED IN THE SIGNING
OF THIS AGREEMENT AND IN THE MAKING OF THIS WAIVER BY INDEPENDENT LEGAL COUNSEL,
SELECTED OF EACH SUCH PARTY'S OWN FREE
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WILL, AND THAT EACH SUCH PARTY HAS HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO DISCUSS THIS WAIVER
WITH COUNSEL.
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SECTION 10.7 COOPERATION; FURTHER DOCUMENTS.
(a) Each of the parties hereto agrees to use its reasonable best efforts to
take or cause to be taken all action, and to do or cause to be done all
things necessary, proper or advisable under applicable laws,
regulations or otherwise, to consummate and to make effective the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including, without
limitation, the timely performance of all actions and things
contemplated by this Agreement to be taken or done by each of the
parties hereto.
(b) Each party shall cooperate with the other party in such other party's
discharge of the obligations hereunder, which shall include making
reasonably available to the other party such of its books and records
as contain, and such of its personnel as have, relevant information,
with respect thereto.
SECTION 10.8 CONSTRUCTION OF AGREEMENT. The terms and provisions of this
Agreement represent the results of negotiations between the parties and their
Representatives, each of which has been represented by counsel of its own
choosing, and neither of which has acted under duress or compulsion, whether
legal, economic or otherwise. Accordingly, the terms and provisions of this
Agreement shall be interpreted and construed in accordance with their usual and
customary meanings, and each of the parties hereto hereby waives the application
in connection with the interpretation and construction of this Agreement of any
rule of law to the effect that ambiguous or conflicting terms or provisions
contained in this Agreement shall be interpreted or construed against the party
whose attorney prepared the executed draft or any earlier draft of this
Agreement.
SECTION 10.9 PUBLICITY; ORGANIZATIONAL AND OPERATIONAL ANNOUNCEMENTS. No party
hereto shall issue, make or cause the publication of any press release or other
announcement with respect to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated
hereby, or otherwise make any disclosures relating thereto, without the consent
of the other parties, such consent not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed;
PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that such consent shall not be required where such release or
announcement is required by applicable law or the rules or regulations of a
securities exchange, in which event the party so required to issue such release
or announcement shall endeavor, wherever possible, to furnish an advance copy of
the proposed release to the other parties.
SECTION 10.10 WAIVER. Except as otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement,
neither the failure nor any delay on the part of any party to exercise any
right, power or privilege hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall
any single or partial exercise or waiver of any such right, power or privilege
preclude any other or further exercise thereof, or the exercise of any other
right, power or privilege available to each party at law or in equity.
SECTION 10.11 PARTIES IN INTEREST. This Agreement (including the documents and
instruments referred to herein) is not intended to confer upon any Person, other
than the parties hereto and their successors and permitted assigns, any rights
or remedies hereunder, except that the parties hereto agree and acknowledge that
the agreements and covenants contained in Section 6.2(d) are intended for the
direct and irrevocable benefit of the director of PVY specified therein, and
that the agreements and covenants contained in Section 9.1 are intended for the
direct and irrevocable benefit of the Indemnified Parties described therein and
their respective heirs or legal representatives (such director or Indemnified
Party, a "Third Party Beneficiary"), and that each such Third Party Beneficiary,
although not a party to this Agreement, shall be and is a direct and irrevocable
third party beneficiary of such agreements and covenants and shall have the
right to enforce such agreements and covenants against SUG in all respects fully
and to the same extent as if such Third Party Beneficiary were a party hereto.
SECTION 10.12 SPECIFIC PERFORMANCE. The parties hereto agree that irreparable
damage would occur to a party in the event that any of the provisions of this
Agreement were not performed in accordance with their specific terms or were
otherwise breached. It is accordingly agreed that any party shall be entitled to
an injunction or injunctions to prevent breaches of this agreement by any other
party and to enforce specifically, to the fullest extent available, the terms
and provisions hereof, including each party's obligation to close, in any court
of the United States or any state having jurisdiction, this being in addition to
any other right or remedy to which any party is entitled at law or in equity.
SECTION 10.13 SECTION AND PARAGRAPH HEADINGS. The section and paragraph headings
in this Agreement are for reference purposes only and shall not affect in any
way the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement.
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SECTION 10.14 AMENDMENT. This Agreement may be amended only by an instrument
in writing executed by the parties hereto.
SECTION 10.15 ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement, the exhibits, annexes and
schedules hereto and the documents specifically referred to herein and the
Confidentiality Agreement constitute the entire agreement, understanding,
representations and warranties of the parties hereto with respect to the subject
matter hereof and supersede all prior agreements with respect thereto.
SECTION 10.16 COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed in one or more
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which
together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
[SIGNATURES APPEAR ON FOLLOWING PAGE]
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed and delivered this Agreement as of
the date first written above.
SOUTHERN UNION COMPANY
By: /S/ PETER H. KELLEY
Name: Peter H. Kelley
Title: President and Chief Operating Officer
GUS ACQUISITION CORPORATION
By: /S/ PETER H. KELLEY
Name: Peter H. Kelley
Title: President
PROVIDENCE ENERGY CORPORATION
By: /S/ JAMES H. DODGE
Name: James H. Dodge
Title: Chief Executive Officer
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THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF
SOUTHERN UNION COMPANY
FOR THE AUGUST 29, 2000
SPECIAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
The undersigned hereby appoints George L. Lindemann and Peter H. Kelley, or
either of them, with power of substitution in each, proxies for the
undersigned, to represent the undersigned and to vote all the Common Stock of
the Company which the undesigned would be entitled to vote, as fully as the
undersigned could vote and act if personally present, at the Special Meeting
of Stockholders to be held on August 29, 2000 at 2:00 p.m., Central Time, in
Southern Union's offices at Lavaca Plaza, 504 Lavaca Street, Austin, Texas or
at any adjournment or postponement thereof.
The Proxies are authorized to vote in their discretion upon all matters
properly brought before the meeting, including any matter of which Management
was not aware a reasonable time before the solicitation of this proxy. The
Board of directors recommends a vote "FOR" each proposal.
CONTINUED AND TO BE SIGNED ON REVERSE SIDE
[SEE REVERSE SIDE] [SEE REVERSE SIDE]
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DETACH HERE
[X] Please mark votes as in this example.
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1. To approve and adopt, separately and jointly: the Agreement of Merger
between Southern Union Company and Fall River Gas ("Fall River Gas"),
whereby Fall River Gas will merge with and into Southern Union; and the
Agreement and Plan of Merger between Southern Union, GUS Acquisition
Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Southern Union ("GUS") and
Providence Energy Corporation ("ProvEnergy"), whereby GUS will be merged
with and into ProvEnergy with ProvEnergy becoming the surviving corporation
and a wholly owned subsidiary of Southern Union, whereupon ProvEnergy will
adopt and effect plans of merger whereby each of North Attleboro Gas
Company, a Massachusetts corporation and Providence Gas Company, a Rhode
Island corporation, each of which is a subsidiary of ProvEnergy, will be
merged with and into ProvEnergy, and Southern Union will adopt and effect
an agreement and plan of merger whereby ProvEnergy will be merged into
Southern Union.
FOR AGAINST ABSTAIN MARK HERE FOR ADDRESS CHANGE / /
/ / / / / / AND NOTE AT LEFT
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SIGNATURE DATE
Please return your signed proxy at once in the enclosed envelope which
requires no postage if mailed in the United States, even though you expect to
attend the meeting in person.
Please date and sign below. If joint account, each owner should sign. When
signing in a representative capacity, please give title. Please sign here
exactly as name appears to the left.
