RVM INDUSTRIES INC
10-Q, 1997-11-14
TRUCK TRAILERS
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<PAGE>   1
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

                             Washington, D.C., 20549

                                    FORM 10-Q

                QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)

                     OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Quarter ended September 30, 1997                         Commission File
                                                                 No. 0-1709
                                                                 ---------------


                              RVM INDUSTRIES, INC.
             ------------------------------------------------------
             (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)


          Delaware                                          31-1515410
 ------------------------------                        ----------------------
(State or other jurisdiction of                          (I.R.S. Employer
 incorporation or organization)                        Identification Number)


753 W. Waterloo Road,  Akron, OH                             44314-1519
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Address of principal executive offices)                              (Zip Code)


Registrant's telephone number, including area code:  (330) 753-4545.


P.O. Box 10002, 861 E. Tallmadge Ave., Akron, OH                   44310
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              (Former name, former address and former fiscal year,
                          if changed from last report)


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days.

                                      Yes    X         No
                                           -----          -----

The number of shares outstanding of the issuer's classes of common stock as of
November 13 1997 is:

                                      Common stock shares 1,936,755
                                      -----------------------------


<PAGE>   2



                              RVM INDUSTRIES, INC.

                           CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      1997
                                                         -----------------------------

         ASSETS                                          September 30       March 31
                                                         -------------     -----------

<S>                                                       <C>              <C>        
Current assets:
    Cash and cash equivalents                             $   537,664      $   468,572

    Receivables:
         Trade, net of allowance for doubtful
              accounts of $150,000 and $112,000
              in September and March                        7,372,452        6,506,008

         Related party                                        283,364          120,008

    Inventories                                            10,592,082        8,677,160
              (Excess of replacement or current cost
              over stated values was $1,996,000
              and $1,955,000 in September and March)


    Deferred income taxes                                     453,950          413,500

    Other current assets                                      184,712          211,648
                                                          -----------      -----------

              Total current assets                         19,424,224       16,396,896

Property, plant and equipment, net                         20,080,717       19,021,289

Funds held by trustees for capital expenditures             2,627,615        2,762,242

Other assets                                                  364,069          386,948
                                                          -----------      -----------

              Total assets                                $42,496,625      $38,567,375
                                                          ===========      ===========
</TABLE>







        See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.

                                        2

<PAGE>   3



                              RVM INDUSTRIES, INC.

                     CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS, Continued


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                           1997
                                                                 ----------------------------

    LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY                         September 30       March 31
                                                                 ------------      ----------

<S>                                                              <C>              <C>        
Current liabilities:
   Note payable - bank                                           $         0      $ 3,581,881
   Accounts payable - trade                                        7,711,200        6,151,924
                    - related parties                                772,445          382,338
    Accrued expenses and liabilities:
         Compensation                                                685,493          695,384
         Product warranty                                            550,000          540,000
         Income taxes                                                111,928           94,750
         Other                                                       844,363          987,843
    Current portion of long-term debt:
                       - other                                     1,265,116        1,579,982
                       - related parties                             604,650          201,549
                                                                 -----------      -----------

              Total current liabilities                           12,545,195       14,215,651

Long-term debt                                                     7,681,968        7,880,369
Note payable  - bank                                              11,407,361        6,358,179
Notes payable - related parties                                    3,426,350        3,829,451
Deferred income taxes                                                588,000          227,500
                                                                 -----------      -----------

              Total liabilities                                   35,648,874       32,511,150
                                                                 -----------      -----------

Commitments and contingent liabilities

Shareholders' equity:
    Common stock, $.01 par value; authorized shares,
         3,000,000; issued 1,936,755 shares at September 30
         and 1,934,255 shares at March 31                             19,368           19,343
    Additional capital                                             4,783,344        4,985,020
    Retained earnings                                              2,045,039        1,051,862
                                                                 -----------      -----------

              Total shareholders' equity                           6,847,751        6,056,225
                                                                 -----------      -----------

              Total liabilities and shareholders' equity         $42,496,625      $38,567,375
                                                                 ===========      ===========
</TABLE>

        See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.


                                        3

<PAGE>   4



                              RVM INDUSTRIES, INC.
           CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND RETAINED EARNINGS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     Six Months Ended September 30
                                                    -------------------------------

                                                        1997               1996
                                                    ------------       ------------

<S>                                                 <C>                <C>         
Net sales                                           $ 39,660,285       $ 31,275,771

Cost of sales                                         33,904,408         27,393,796
                                                    ------------       ------------

     Gross profit                                      5,755,877          3,881,975

Selling, general and administrative expenses           3,026,900          2,725,908
                                                    ------------       ------------

     Income from operations                            2,728,977          1,156,067

Other income                                              43,270             37,889
Interest expense                                        (755,559)          (602,017)
Loss on disposal of equipment                             (1,729)           (83,979)
                                                    ------------       ------------

     Income before income taxes and cumulative
          effect of accounting change                  2,014,959            507,960

Provision for income taxes                             1,021,782            293,400
                                                    ------------       ------------

     Income before cumulative effect of
          accounting change                              993,177            214,560

Cumulative effect of accounting change                   211,651                  0
                                                    ------------       ------------

          Net income                                     781,526            214,560

Reclassification of undistributed net
      loss of S-corporations                             211,651            294,557
Treasury stock retired                                         0            (20,674)
Retained earnings, beginning of period                 1,051,862            180,458
                                                    ------------       ------------

Retained earnings, end of period                    $  2,045,039       $    668,901
                                                    ============       ============

Pro forma income data:
     Net income as reported                         $    781,526       $    214,560
     Pro forma income tax benefit                         77,691            108,986
     Cumulative effect of accounting change              211,651                  0
                                                    ------------       ------------
     Pro forma net income                           $  1,070,868       $    323,546
                                                    ============       ============

Pro forma net income
          per common share                          $        .55       $        .17
                                                    ============       ============
</TABLE>

        See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.

                                        4

<PAGE>   5



                              RVM INDUSTRIES, INC.
           CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND RETAINED EARNINGS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  Three Months Ended September 30
                                                  -------------------------------

                                                      1997                1996
                                                  ------------       ------------

<S>                                               <C>                <C>         
Net sales                                         $ 20,794,869       $ 15,329,290

Cost of sales                                       18,076,341         13,373,252
                                                  ------------       ------------

     Gross profit                                    2,718,528          1,956,038

Selling, general and administrative expenses         1,503,189          1,311,225
                                                  ------------       ------------

     Income from operations                          1,215,339            644,813

Other income                                            20,870             16,935
Interest expense                                      (386,470)          (290,000)
Loss on disposal of equipment                           (1,729)           (83,979)
                                                  ------------       ------------

     Income before income taxes                        848,010            287,769

Provision for income taxes                             315,884            159,200
                                                  ------------       ------------

     Net income                                        532,126            128,569

Reclassification of undistributed net
      loss of S-Corporations                                 0            153,819
Treasury stock retired                                       0            (20,674)
Retained earnings, beginning of period               1,512,913            407,187
                                                  ------------       ------------

Retained earnings, end of period                  $  2,045,039       $    668,901
                                                  ============       ============

Pro forma income data:
     Net income as reported                       $    532,126       $    128,569
     Pro forma income tax benefit                            0             56,913
                                                  ------------       ------------
     Pro forma net income                         $    532,126       $    185,482
                                                  ============       ============


Pro forma net income
          per common share                        $        .27       $        .10
                                                  ============       ============
</TABLE>

        See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.


                                        5

<PAGE>   6



                              RVM INDUSTRIES, INC.
                      CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                            Six Months Ended September 30
                                                                            -----------------------------

                                                                                1997             1996
                                                                            -----------       -----------


<S>                                                                         <C>               <C>        
Cash flows from operating activities:
   Net Income ........................................................      $   781,526       $   214,560
   Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided
       from (used for) operating activities:
   Depreciation and amortization .....................................          741,931           697,892
   Deferred income taxes .............................................          320,050            20,000
   Increase (decrease) on accrued product warranty ...................           10,000           (20,000)
   Increase (decrease) in allowance for doubtful accounts ............           38,000            70,000
   Cumulative effect of accounting change ............................          205,244                 0
   Loss on disposal of equipment .....................................            1,729            83,979
   Increase (decrease) in cash from changes in:
      Receivables ....................................................       (1,067,800)         (297,640)
      Inventories ....................................................       (1,914,922)          536,644
      Other assets ...................................................           29,788            88,768
      Accounts payable ...............................................        1,949,383          (654,306)
      Refundable and accrued income taxes ............................           17,178           191,900
      Accrued expenses and other current liabilities .................         (153,371)         (282,185)
                                                                            -----------       -----------

      Net cash provided from (used for) operating activities .........          958,736           649,612
                                                                            -----------       -----------

Cash flows from investing activities:
   Capital expenditures ..............................................       (1,988,305)       (2,162,916)
   Investment of proceeds and income from long-term debt with trustees          (67,924)          (73,358)
   Sale of investments and release of funds held by trustees .........          202,551         1,856,333
   Proceeds from disposal of equipment ...............................                0            18,166
                                                                            -----------       -----------

      Net cash provided from (used for) investing activities .........       (1,853,678)         (361,775)
                                                                            -----------       -----------

Cash flows from financing activities:
   Payments on long-term debt ........................................         (513,267)       (1,407,435)
   Proceeds from (payments on) notes payable - bank, net .............        1,467,301        (1,544,263)
   Proceeds from notes and accounts payable to related parties .......                0         2,718,447
   Proceeds from exercise of stock options ...........................           10,000                 0
   Purchase of treasury stock ........................................                0           (37,076)
                                                                            -----------       -----------

      Net cash provided from (used for) financing activities .........          964,034          (270,327)
                                                                            -----------       -----------

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents .................           69,092            17,510
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year .......................          468,572           471,161
                                                                            -----------       -----------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period ...........................      $   537,664       $   488,671
                                                                            ===========       ===========
</TABLE>

        See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.


                                        6

<PAGE>   7



                              RVM INDUSTRIES, INC.
                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                   ------------------------------------------


1.       The information in this report reflects all adjustments which are, in
         the opinion of management, necessary for a fair statement of the
         results for the interim periods presented for RVM Industries, Inc.
         ("the Company"). All adjustments other than those described in this
         report are, in the opinion of management, of a normal and recurring
         nature. These consolidated financial statements include the accounts of
         RVM's wholly owned subsidiaries: Ravens, Inc. ("Ravens"), Albex
         Aluminum, Inc. ("Albex") and Signs and Blanks, Inc. ("SABI"). All
         significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been
         eliminated. Certain amounts in the financial statements were
         reclassified to conform to the 1997 presentation.

2.       Earnings per common share are based on net income divided by the
         weighted average number of common and common stock equivalent shares
         outstanding. Loss per common share is based on net loss divided by the
         weighted average number of common shares outstanding. The weighted
         average number of common shares outstanding was 1,935,000 in 1997 and
         1,943,525 in 1996.

3.       Inventories consist of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     September 30, 1997           March 31, 1997
                                                     ------------------           --------------

<S>                                                          <C>                      <C>       
               Raw materials                                 $6,046,277               $5,314,901
               Work in process                                1,193,563                  430,650
               Finished goods                                 3,352,242                2,931,609
                                                             ----------               ----------
                                                            $10,592,082               $8,677,160
                                                            ===========               ==========
</TABLE>

         The reserve to reduce the carrying value of inventories from current
         cost to the LIFO basis amounted to approximately $1,996,000 at
         September 30 and $1,955,000 at March 31.

4.       On April 1, 1997, Albex and SABI changed their fiscal year ends from
         December 31 to March 31 to conform with the March 31 year ends of RVM
         and Ravens. $211,651 is the cumulative effect of this accounting change
         and is equivalent to the net loss for Albex and SABI for the quarter
         ended March 31, 1997. If the fiscal year ends had changed effective
         April 1, 1996, net income for the six months ended September 30, 1996
         would have decreased by $97,796. RVM's net income for the six months
         ended September 30, 1997 includes a net loss of $258,077 for Albex and
         SABI compared to a net loss of $294,557 for the six months ended
         September 30, 1996. Albex and SABI were S-corporations until March 31,
         1997. The undistributed net loss was reclassified from accumulated
         deficit to additional capital.




                                        7

<PAGE>   8



              NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, Continued
                                   ----------

5.      Business Segment Information:


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  Ravens          Albex            SABI         Eliminations    Consolidated
                                                  ------          -----            ----         ------------    ------------
<S>                                             <C>            <C>              <C>             <C>              <C>        
       Six months ended September 30, 1997
       -----------------------------------
       Sales to customers                       $23,751,782    $  9,838,816     $ 6,069,687                      $39,660,285
       Intersegment sales                                 0       3,310,275            (141)    $ (3,310,134)              0
                                                -----------    ------------     -----------     ------------     -----------

          Net sales                             $23,751,782    $ 13,149,091     $ 6,069,546     $ (3,310,134)    $39,660,285
                                                ===========    ============     ===========     ============     ===========

       Income (loss) from operations            $ 2,249,834    $     57,679     $   445,196     $    (23,732)    $ 2,728,977

       Six months ended September 30, 1996
       -----------------------------------
       Sales to customers                       $21,472,202    $  3,734,446     $ 6,069,123                      $31,275,771
       Intersegment sales                                 0       2,355,739           1,836     $ (2,357,575)              0
                                                -----------    ------------     -----------     ------------     -----------

          Net sales                             $21,472,202    $  6,090,185     $ 6,070,959     $ (2,357,575)    $31,275,771
                                                ===========    ============     ===========     ============     ===========

       Income (loss) from operations            $ 1,154,245    $   (376,958)    $   369,044     $      9,736     $ 1,156,067






       Three months ended September 30, 1997
       -------------------------------------
       Sales to customers                       $11,021,774    $  6,643,612     $ 3,129,483                      $20,794,869
       Intersegment sales                                 0       1,350,188               0     $ (1,350,188)              0
                                                -----------    ------------     -----------     ------------     -----------

           Net sales                            $11,021,774    $  7,993,800     $ 3,129,483     $ (1,350,188)    $20,794,869
                                                ===========    ============     ===========     ============     ===========

       Income (loss) from operations            $   931,466    $     75,496     $   200,041     $      8,336     $ 1,215,339


       Three months ended September 30, 1996
       -------------------------------------
       Sales to customers                       $10,399,398    $  1,862,900     $ 3,066,992                      $15,329,290
       Intersegment sales                                 0       1,163,075           1,733     $ (1,164,808)              0
                                                -----------    ------------     -----------     ------------     -----------

          Net sales                             $10,399,398    $  3,025,975     $ 3,068,725     $ (1,164,808)    $15,329,290
                                                ===========    ============     ===========     ============     ===========

       Income (loss) from operations            $   649,488    $   (231,061)    $   214,960     $     11,426     $   644,813
</TABLE>





                                        8

<PAGE>   9




                              RVM INDUSTRIES, INC.

                     MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                  FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
                               SEPTEMBER 30, 1997


                     MATERIAL CHANGES IN FINANCIAL CONDITION

Cash from operating and financing activities was used mainly for capital
expenditures on Albex's aluminum billet casting facility in the six months ended
September 30, 1997. Working capital increased to $6,879,029 at September 30 from
$2,181,245 at March 31 due mainly to replacing short-term bank financing with
long-term financing. Accounts receivable-trade, inventories, and accounts
payable - trade increased mainly due to a higher level of sales in August and
September 1997 than in February and March 1997.

On September 30, 1997, the Company entered into a line of credit agreement with
FirstMerit Bank, N.A. ("FM") replacing the existing agreements. The agreement
provides for borrowings up to $15,000,000 based on eligible accounts receivable
and inventories and expires on August 31, 1999. Interest is at FM's prime rate
minus 1/4%. The agreement is collateralized by accounts receivable, inventory
and equipment.

On September 30, 1997, the Company and FM also entered into a $5,000,000 term
loan agreement for the financing of certain existing and to be acquired fixed
assets. Interest is at FM's prime rate. Repayment terms are interest only for
two years and principal plus interest for seven years. The Company borrowed
$1,800,000 under this agreement subsequent to September 30, 1997.

Jacob Pollock provided a $2,500,000 guarantee on the above loan agreements.

The Company could have borrowed approximately $1,373,000 more than the amount
owed FM at September 30, 1997. This amount is in addition to the $1,800,000
borrowing described above. Although no assurances are possible, the Company
believes that its cash resources, credit arrangements, and internally generated
funds will be sufficient to meet its operating and capital expenditure
requirements for existing operations and to service its debt in the next 12
months and foreseeable future. Cautionary statements: Demand for the Company's
products is subject to changes in general economic conditions and in the
specific markets in which the Company competes. The Company's liquidity could be
adversely affected if Albex is not successful in completing the casting facility
and generating sufficient sales of billet.

The Company's sales order backlog for new trailers was approximately $4,500,000
and $5,700,000 at September 30 and May 31, 1997, respectively. Sales orders
received in October and November exceed the average monthly sales recorded in
the six months ended September 30, 1997.



                                       9
<PAGE>   10



                    MATERIAL CHANGES IN RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

               Six Months Ended September 30, 1997 Compared to the
               ---------------------------------------------------
                       Six Months Ended September 30, 1996
                       -----------------------------------


Net sales increased 26.8% mainly due to increased volume of aluminum extrusion
sales by Albex. The gross profit margin increased to 14.5% from 12.4% due to
improvements at all of the subsidiaries. Ravens benefitted from higher sales and
the closure of the utility trailer division which generated losses in the prior
year. Albex increased sales and operating efficiencies in 1997 compared to 1996
when its production facility was relocated from Elizabeth, West Virginia to
Canton, Ohio. SABI increased its gross profit on the same level of sales by
concentrating on more profitable customers and lowering costs. Selling, general
and administrative expenses decreased to 7.6% from 8.7% of net sales as net
sales increased at a greater rate than selling, general and administrative
expenses. Interest expense increased mainly due to more debt outstanding during
the period ended September 30, 1997 versus the period ended September 30, 1996.

The provision for income taxes includes $261,000 for the establishment of
deferred income tax assets and liabilities as of April 1, 1997 when Albex and
SABI converted from S-corporations to C-corporations. The pro forma income tax
benefit is the amount that would have been recorded if Albex and SABI had been
taxed as C-corporations, based on the tax laws in effect during those periods.
See Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements for an explanation of the
cumulative effect of accounting change.


              Three Months Ended September 30,1997 Compared to the
              ----------------------------------------------------
                      Three Months Ended September 30, 1996
                      -------------------------------------

Net sales increased 35.7% mainly due to increased volume of aluminum extrusion
sales by Albex. The gross profit margin increased to 13.1% from 12.8% due to the
same reasons described for the six month period. Selling, general and
administrative expenses decreased to 7.2% from 8.6% of net sales as net sales
increased at a greater rate than selling, general and administrative expenses.
Interest expense increased mainly due to more debt outstanding during the period
ended September 30, 1997 versus the period ended September 30, 1996.




                                       10

<PAGE>   11




PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 4.  Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

     An annual meeting of shareholders was held on September 10, 1997 at which
     time the Board of Directors as previously reported were re-elected or
     continued unexpired terms. Jacob Pollock, holding 1,685,803 shares
     representing 87.16% of the outstanding shares voted for the nominee.
     1,725,803 affirmative votes were cast for the nominee and no negative votes
     were cast.


Item 6.  Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

    (a) Exhibits:

        Exhibit No.                  Item
        -----------                  ----

        10(i)             Loan Agreement and Promissory Note dated September 30,
                          1997 between the Registrant and FirstMerit Bank, N.A.


        10(ii)            Business Loan Agreement and Promissory Note dated
                          September 30, 1997 between the Registrant and 
                          FirstMerit Bank, N.A.



        10(iii)           Commercial Guaranty dated September 30, 1997 between
                          Jacob Pollock and FirstMerit Bank, N.A.


        27                Financial Data Schedule



     (b) Reports on Form 8-K:

              No reports on Form 8-K were filed during the three months ended
September 30,1997.




                                       11

<PAGE>   12





                                   SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

                                            RVM INDUSTRIES, INC.
                                            --------------------
                                            (Registrant)



                                            By: /S/John J. Stitz
                                                ----------------------------
                                                     John J. Stitz
                                                     Chief Financial Officer


Date:  November 14, 1997



                                       12




<PAGE>   1
                                                                   Exhibit 10(i)

                                 LOAN AGREEMENT
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ----------------------- ------------------- -------------------- ---------------- ----------- ------------------------- 
      PRINCIPAL             LOAN DATE            MATURITY            LOAN NO         CALL            COLLATERAL         
<S>                         <C>                 <C>                  <C>             <C>                <C>  
     15,000,000.00          09-30-1997          08-31-1999                                              UCC             
- ----------------------- ------------------- -------------------- ---------------- ----------- ------------------------- 

- -------------------- ----------------- ---------------- 
      ACCOUNT            OFFICER          INITIALS      
<S>                        <C>                          
                           JVC                          
- -------------------- ----------------- ---------------- 
References in the shaded area are for Lender's use only and do not limit the applicability of this document to any particular loan 
or term.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

<S>                                                            <C>      
Borrower:  RVM Industries, Inc.; Ravens, Inc.; Signs           Lender:  FirstMerit Bank, N.A.
           and Blanks, Inc.; Albex Aluminum, Inc.                       Asset Based Lending
           753 W. Waterloo Rd.                                          106 South Main Street
           Akron, OH 44314                                              Akron, OH 44308

- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

THIS LOAN AGREEMENT BETWEEN RVM INDUSTRIES, INC.; RAVENS, INC.; SIGNS AND
BLANKS, INC.; ALBEX ALUMINUM, INC. ("BORROWER") AND FIRSTMERIT BANK, N.A.
("LENDER") IS MADE AND EXECUTED ON THE FOLLOWING TERMS AND CONDITIONS. BORROWER
HAS RECEIVED PRIOR COMMERCIAL LOANS FROM LENDER OR HAS APPLIED TO LENDER FOR A
COMMERCIAL LOAN OR LOANS AND OTHER FINANCIAL ACCOMMODATIONS, INCLUDING THOSE
WHICH MAY BE DESCRIBED ON ANY EXHIBIT OR SCHEDULE ATTACHED TO THIS AGREEMENT ALL
SUCH LOANS AND FINANCIAL ACCOMMODATIONS, TOGETHER WITH ALL FUTURE LOANS AND
FINANCIAL ACCOMMODATIONS FROM LENDER TO BORROWER, ARE REFERRED TO IN THIS
AGREEMENT INDIVIDUALLY AS THE "LOAN" AND COLLECTIVELY AS THE "LOANS." BORROWER
UNDERSTANDS AND AGREES THAT: (A) IN GRANTING, RENEWING, OR EXTENDING ANY LOAN,
LENDER IS RELYING UPON BORROWER'S REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES, AND AGREEMENTS,
AS SET FORTH IN THIS AGREEMENT; (B) THE GRANTING, RENEWING, OR EXTENDING OF ANY
LOAN BY LENDER AT ALL TIMES SHALL BE SUBJECT TO LENDER'S SOLE JUDGMENT AND
DISCRETION; AND (C) ALL SUCH LOANS SHALL BE AND SHALL REMAIN SUBJECT TO THE
FOLLOWING TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THIS AGREEMENT.

TERM. This Agreement shall be effective as of SEPTEMBER 30, 1997, and shall
continue thereafter until all Indebtedness of Borrower to Lender has been
performed in full or until AUGUST 31, 1999, whichever is later.

DEFINITIONS. The following words shall have the following meanings when used in
this Agreement. Terms not otherwise defined in this Agreement shall have the
meanings attributed to such terms in the Uniform Commercial Code. All references
to dollar amounts shall mean amounts in lawful money of the United States of
America.

     AGREEMENT. The word "Agreement" means this Loan Agreement, as this Loan
     Agreement may be amended or modified from time to time, together with all
     exhibits and schedules attached to this Loan Agreement from time to time.

     ACCOUNT. The word "Account" means a trade account, account receivable, or
     other right to payment for goods sold or services rendered owing to
     Borrower (or to a third party grantor acceptable to Lender).

     ACCOUNT DEBTOR. The words "Account Debtor" mean the person or entity
     obligated upon an Account. 

     ADVANCE. The word "Advance" means a disbursement of Loan funds under this
     Agreement. 

     BORROWER. The word "Borrower" means RVM Industries, Inc.; Ravens, Inc.;
     Signs and Blanks, Inc.; Albex Aluminum, Inc., The word "Borrower" also
     includes, as applicable, all subsidiaries and affiliates of Borrower as
     provided below in the paragraph tied "Subsidiaries and Affiliates." 

     BORROWING BASE. The words "Borrowing Base" mean as determined by Lender
     from time to time the lesser of (a) $15,000,000.00; or (b) the sum of (I)
     82.000% of the aggregate amount of Eligible Accounts, plus (ii) 70.OOO"A of
     the aggregate amount of Eligible Ravens Sheet & Plate and Albex Ingot,
     Billet & Scrap inventory, plus (iii) 65.000% of the aggregate amount of
     Eigible Signs and Blanks Raw Material and Albex Material/Extrusions
     Inventory, plus (iv) 80.000% of the aggregate amount of Eligible Ravens
     Finished Goods Inventory, plus (v) 55.000% of the aggregate amount of
     Eligible Signs and Blanks Finished Goods Inventory, plus (vi) 50.000% of
     the aggregate amount of Eligible Ravens Raw Material Inventory with a
     maximum advance of $9,000,000.00 against Inventory; minus $375,000.00 at
     9/30/97, $412,500.00 at 10/31/97, $450,000.00 at 11/30/97, $37,500.00 at
     12/30/97 (provided the Kent IRB 12/97 payment is made), $75,000.00 at
     1/31/98, $112,500.00 at 2/28/98, $150,000.00 at 3/31/98, $187,500.00 at
     4/30/98, $225,000.00 at 5/31/98, $262,500.00 at 6/30/98, $300,000.00 at
     7/31/98, $337,500.00 at 8/31/98, $375,000.00 at 9/30/98, $412,500.00 at
     10/31/98, $450,000.00 at 11/30/98, $37,500.00 at 12/31/98 (provided the
     Kent IRB 12/98 payment is made), $75,000.00 at 1/31/99, $112,500.00 at
     2/28/99, $150,000.00 at 3/31/99, $187,500.00 at 4/30/99, $225,000.00 at
     5/31/99, $262,500.00 at 6/30/99, $300,000.00 at 7/31/99, and $337,500.00 at
     8/31/99.

     BUSINESS DAY. The words "Business Day" mean a day on which commercial banks
     are open for business in the State of Ohio. 
  
     CERCLA. The word "CERCLA" means the Comprehensive Environmental Response,
     Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980, as amended.

     CASH FLOW. The words "Cash Flow" mean net income after taxes, and exclusive
     of extraordinary gains and income, plus depreciation and amortization,
     adjust for all other non-cash items affecting income.

     COLLATERAL. The word "Collateral" means and includes without limitation all
     property and assets granted as collateral security for a Loan, whether real
     or personal property, whether granted directly or indirectly, whether
     granted now or in the future, and whether granted in the form of a security
     interest, mortgage, deed of trust, assignment, pledge, chattel mortgage,
     chattel trust, factor's lien, equipment trust, conditional sale, trust
     receipt, lien, charge, lien or title retention contract, lease or
     consignment intended as a security device, or any other security or lien
     interest whatsoever, whether created by law, contract, or otherwise. The
     word "Collateral" includes without limitation all collateral described
     below in the section titled "COLLATERAL."

     DEBT. The word "Debt" means all of Borrower's liabilities excluding
     Subordinated Debt.

     ELIGIBLE ACCOUNTS. The words "Eligible Accounts" mean, at any time, all of
     Borrower's Accounts which contain selling terms and conditions acceptable
     to Lender. The net amount of any Eligible Account against which Borrower
     may borrow shall exclude all returns, discounts, credits, and offsets of
     any nature. Unless otherwise agreed to by Lender in witting, Eligible
     Accounts do not include:

          (a) Accounts with respect to which the Account Debtor is an officer,
          an employee or agent of Borrower.

          (b) Accounts with respect to which the Account Debtor is a subsidiary
          of, or affiliated with or related to Borrower or its shareholders,
          officers, or directors.

          (c) Accounts with respect to which goods are placed on consignment,
          guaranteed sale, or other terms by reason of which the payment by the
          Account Debtor may be conditional.

          (d) Accounts with respect to which the Account Debtor is not a
          resident of the United States, except to the extent such Accounts are
          supported by insurance, bonds or other assurances satisfactory to
          Lender.

          (e) Accounts with respect to which Borrower is or may become liable to
          the Account Debtor for goods sold or services rendered by the Account
          Debtor to Borrower.

          (f) Accounts which are subject to dispute, counterclaim, or setoff.

          (g) Accounts with respect to which the goods have not been shipped or
          delivered, or the services have not been rendered, to the Account of

<PAGE>   2

09-30-1997                         LOAN AGREEMENT                         PAGE 2
LOAN NO                             (CONTINUED)
================================================================================
          Debtor. 

          (h) Accounts with respect to which Lender, in its sole discretion,
          deems the creditworthiness or financial condition of the Account
          Debtor to be unsatisfactory.

          (i) Accounts of any Account Debtor who has filed or has had filed
          against it a petition in bankruptcy or an application for relief under
          any provision of any state or federal bankruptcy, insolvency, or
          debtor-in-relief acts; or who has had appointed a trustee, custodian,
          or receiver for the assets of such Account Debtor; or who has made an
          assignment for the benefit of creditors or has become insolvent or
          falls generally to pay its debts (including its payrolls) as such
          debts become due.

          (j) Accounts with respect to which the Account Debtor is the United
          States government or any department or agency of the United States.

          (k) Accounts which have not been paid in full within 90 days from the
          invoice date.

          (l) Accounts having 50% or more of their total balance outstanding
          more than 90 days from invoice date.

     ELIGIBLE INVENTORY. The words "Eligible Inventory" mean, at any time, all
     of Borrower's Inventory as defined below except:

          (a) Inventory which is not owned by Borrower free and clear of all
          security interests, liens, encumbrances, and claims of third parties.

          (b) Inventory which Lender, in its sole discretion, deems to be
          obsolete, unsalable, damaged, defective, or unfit for further
          processing. 

     ERISA. The word "ERISA" means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act
     of 1974, as amended. 

     EVENT OF DEFAULT. The words "Event of Default" mean and include without
     limitation any of the Events of Default set forth below in the section
     titled "EVENTS OF DEFAULT."

     EXPIRATION DATE. The words "Expiration Date" mean the earlier of August 31,
     1999 or the date of termination of Lender's commitment to lend under this
     Agreement.

     GRANTOR. The word "Grantor" means and includes without limitation each and
     all of the persons or entities granting a Security Interest in any
     Collateral for the Indebtedness, including without limitation all Borrowers
     granting such a Security Interest.

     GUARANTOR. The word "Guarantor" means and includes without limitation each
     and all of the guarantors, sureties, and accommodation parties in
     connection with any Indebtedness.

     INDEBTEDNESS. The word "Indebtedness" means and includes without limitation
     all Loans, together with all other obligations, debts and liabilities of
     Borrower to Lender, or any one or more of them, as well as all claims by
     Lender against Borrower, or any one or more of them; whether now or
     hereafter existing, voluntary or involuntary, due or not due, absolute or
     contingent liquidated or unliquidated; whether Borrower may be liable
     individually or jointly with others; whether Borrower may be obligated as a
     guarantor, surety, or otherwise; whether recovery upon such Indebtedness
     may be or hereafter may become barred by any statute of limitations; and
     whether such Indebtedness may be or hereafter may become otherwise
     unenforceable.

     INVENTORY. The word "Inventory" means all of Borrower's raw materials, work
     in process, finished goods, merchandise, parts and supplies, of every kind
     and description, and goods held for sale or lease or furnished under
     contracts of service in which Borrower now has or hereafter acquires any
     right, whether held by Borrower or others, and all documents of title,
     warehouse receipts, bills of lading, and all other documents of every type
     covering all or any part of the foregoing. Inventory includes inventory
     temporarily out of Borrower's custody or possession and all returns on
     Accounts.

     LENDER. The word "Lender" means FirstMerit Bank, N.A., its successors and
     assigns.

     LINE OF CREDIT. The words "Line of Credit" mean the credit facility
     described in the Section titled "LINE OF CREDIT" below.

     LIQUID ASSETS. The words "Liquid Assets" mean Borrower's cash on hand plus
     Borrower's readily marketable securities.

     LOAN. The word "Loan" or "Loans" means and includes without limitation any
     and all commercial loans and financial accommodations from Lender to
     Borrower, whether now or hereafter existing, and however evidenced,
     including without limitation those loans and financial accommodations
     described herein or described on any exhibit or schedule attached to this
     Agreement from time to time.

     NOTE. The word "Note" means and includes without limitation Borrower's
     promissory note or notes, if any, evidencing Borrower's Loan obligations in
     favor of Lender, as well as any substitute, replacement or refinancing note
     or notes therefor.

     PERMITTED LIENS. The words "Permitted Liens" mean: (a) liens and security
     interests securing Indebtedness owed by Borrower to Lender; (b) liens for
     taxes, assessments, or similar charges either not yet due or being
     contested in good faith; (c) liens of materialmen, mechanics, warehousemen,
     or carriers, or other like liens arising in the ordinary course of business
     and securing obligations which are not yet delinquent; (d) purchase money
     liens or purchase money security interests upon or in any property acquired
     or held by Borrower in the ordinary course of business to secure
     indebtedness outstanding on the date of this Agreement or permitted to be
     incurred under the paragraph of this Agreement titled "Indebtedness and
     Liens"; (e) liens and security interests which, as of the date of this
     Agreement, have been disclosed to and approved by the Lender in writing;
     and (f) those liens and security interests which in the aggregate
     constitute an immaterial and insignificant monetary amount with respect to
     the net value of Borrower's assets.

     RELATED DOCUMENTS. The words "Related Documents" mean and include without
     limitation all promissory notes, credit agreements, loan agreements,
     environmental agreements, guaranties, security agreements, mortgages, deeds
     of trust, and all other instruments, agreements and documents, whether now
     or hereafter existing, executed in connection with the Indebtedness.

     SECURITY AGREEMENT. The words "Security Agreement" mean and include without
     limitation any agreements, promises, covenants, arrangements,
     understandings or other agreements, whether created by law, contract, or
     otherwise, evidencing, governing, representing, or creating a Security
     Interest.

     SECURITY INTEREST. The words "Security Interest" mean and include without
     limitation any type of collateral security, whether in the form of a lien,
     charge, mortgage, deed of trust, assignment, pledge, chattel mortgage,
     chattel trust, factor's lien, equipment trust, conditional sale, trust
     receipt, lien or title retention contract, lease or consignment intended as
     a security device, or any other security or lien interest whatsoever,
     whether created by law, contract, or otherwise.

     SARA. The word "SARA" means the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization
     Act of 1986 as now or hereafter amended.

     SUBORDINATED DEBT. The words "Subordinated Debt" mean indebtedness and
     liabilities of Borrower which have been subordinated by written agreement
     to indebtedness owed by Borrower to Lender in form and substance acceptable
     to Lender.

     TANGIBLE NET WORTH. The words "Tangible Net Worth" mean Borrower's total
     assets excluding all intangible assets (i.e., goodwill, trademarks,
     patents, copyrights, organizational expenses, and similar intangible items,
     but including leaseholds and leasehold improvements) less total Debt.

     WORKING CAPITAL. The words "Working Capital" mean Borrower's current
     assets, excluding prepaid expenses, less Borrower's current liabilities.


<PAGE>   3

09-30-1997                         LOAN AGREEMENT                         PAGE 3
LOAN NO                             (CONTINUED)
================================================================================

LINE OF CREDIT. Lender agrees to make Advances to Borrower from time to time
from the date of this Agreement to the Expiration Date, provided the aggregate
amount of such Advances outstanding at any time does not exceed the Borrowing
Base. Within the foregoing limits, Borrower may borrow, partially or wholly
prepay, and reborrow under this Agreement as follows.

     CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO EACH ADVANCE. Lender's obligation to make any
     Advance to or for the account of Borrower under this Agreement is subject
     to the following conditions precedent, with all documents, instruments,
     opinions, reports, and other items required under this Agreement to be in
     form and substance satisfactory to Lender:

          (a) Lender shall have received evidence that this Agreement and all
          Related Documents have been duly authorized, executed, and delivered
          by Borrower to Lender.

          (b) Lender shall have received such opinions of counsel, supplemental
          opinions, and documents as Lender may request.

          (c) The security interests in the Collateral shall have been duly
          authorized, created, and perfected with first lien priority and shall
          be in full force and effect.

          (d) All guaranties required by Lender for the Line of Credit shall
          have been executed by each Guarantor, delivered to Lender, and be in
          full force and effect.

          (e) Lender, at its option and for its sole benefit, shall have
          conducted an audit of Borrower's Accounts, Inventory, books, records,
          and operations, and Lender shall be satisfied as to their condition.

          (f) Borrower shall have paid to Lender all fees, costs, and expenses
          specified in this Agreement and the Related Documents as are then due
          and payable, including without limitation the following loan fees: A
          $7,500.00 CLOSING FEE AND A $1,400.00 QUARTERLY SERVICING FEE FOR
          RAVENS, INC., A $1,750.00 QUARTERLY SERVICING FEE FOR ALBEX ALUMINUM,
          INC. AND A $350.00 QUARTERLY SERVICING FEE FOR SIGNS AND BLANKS, INC.,
          ALL DUE AT 10/1/97, AND QUARTERLY THEREAFTER.

          (g) There shall not exist at the time of any Advance a condition which
          would constitute an Event of Default under this Agreement, and
          Borrower shall have delivered to Lender the compliance certificate
          called for in the paragraph below titled "Compliance Certificate."

     MAKING LOAN ADVANCES. Advances under the Line of Credit may be requested
     orally by authorized persons. Lender may, but need not, require that all
     oral requests be confirmed in writing. Each Advance shall be conclusively
     deemed to have been made at the request of and for the benefit of Borrower
     (a) when credited to any deposit account of Borrower maintained with Lender
     or (b) when advanced in accordance with the instructions of an authorized
     person. Lender, at its option, may set a cutoff time, after which all
     requests for Advances will be treated as having been requested on the next
     succeeding Business Day.

     MANDATORY LOAN REPAYMENTS. If at any time the aggregate principal amount of
     the outstanding Advances shall exceed the applicable Borrowing Base,
     Borrower, immediately upon written or oral notice from Lender, shall pay to
     Lender an amount equal to the difference between the outstanding principal
     balance of the Advances and the Borrowing Base. On the Expiration Date,
     Borrower shall pay to Lender in full the aggregate unpaid principal amount
     of all Advances then outstanding and all accrued unpaid interest, together
     with all other applicable fees, costs and charges, if any, not yet paid.

     LOAN ACCOUNT. Lender shall maintain on its books a record of account in
     which Lender shall make entries for each Advance and such other debits and
     credits as shall be appropriate in connection with the credit facility.
     Lender shall provide Borrower with periodic statements of Borrower's
     account, which statements shall be considered to be correct and
     conclusively binding on Borrower unless Borrower notifies Lender to the
     contrary within thirty (30) days after Borrower's receipt of any such
     statement which Borrower deems to be incorrect.

COLLATERAL. To secure payment of the Line of Credit and performance of all other
Loans, obligations and duties owed by Borrower to Lender, Borrower (and others,
if required) shall grant to Lender Security Interests in such property and
assets as Lender may require (the "Collateral"), including without limitation
Borrower's present and future Accounts, general intangibles, and Inventory.
Lender's Security Interests in the Collateral shall be continuing liens and
shall include the proceeds and products of the Collateral, including without
limitation the proceeds of any insurance. With respect to the Collateral,
Borrower agrees and represents and warrants to Lender:

     PERFECTION OF SECURITY INTERESTS. Borrower agrees to execute such financing
     statements and to take whatever other actions are requested by Lender to
     perfect and continue Lender's Security Interests in the Collateral. Upon
     request of Lender, Borrower will deliver to Lender any and all of the
     documents evidencing or constituting the Collateral, and Borrower will note
     Lender's interest upon any and all chattel paper if not delivered to Lender
     for possession by Lender. Contemporaneous with the execution of this
     Agreement, Borrower will execute one or more UCC financing statements and
     any similar statements as may be required by applicable law, and will file
     such financing statements and all such similar statements in the
     appropriate location or locations. Borrower hereby appoints Lender as its
     irrevocable attorney-in-fact for the purpose of executing any documents
     necessary to perfect or to continue any Security Interest. Lender may at
     any time, and without further authorization from Borrower, file a carbon,
     photograph, facsimile, or other reproduction of any financing statement for
     use as a financing statement Borrower will reimburse Lender for all
     expenses for the perfection, termination, and the continuation of the
     perfection of Lender's security interest in the Collateral. Borrower
     promptly will notify Lender of any change in Borrower's name including any
     change to the assumed business names of Borrower. Borrower also promptly
     will notify Lender of any change in Borrower's Social Security Number or
     Employer Identification Number. Borrower further agrees to notify Lender in
     writing prior to any change in address or location of Borrower's principal
     governance office or should Borrower merge or consolidate with any other
     entity.

     COLLATERAL RECORDS. Borrower does now, and at all times hereafter shall,
     keep correct and accurate records of the Collateral, all of which records
     shall be available to Lender or Lender's representative upon demand for
     inspection and copying at any reasonable time. With respect to the
     Accounts, Borrower agrees to keep and maintain such records as Lender may
     require, including without limitation information concerning Eligible
     Accounts and Account balances and agings. With respect to the Inventory.
     Borrower agrees to keep and maintain such records as Lender may require,
     including without limitation information concerning Eligible Inventory and
     records itemizing and describing the kind, type, quality, and quantity of
     Inventory, Borrower's Inventory costs and selling prices, and the dally
     withdrawals and additions to Inventory.

     COLLATERAL SCHEDULES. Concurrently with the execution and delivery of this
     Agreement. Borrower shall execute and deliver to Lender schedules of
     Accounts and Inventory and Eligible Accounts and Eligible Inventory, in
     form and substance satisfactory to the Lender. Thereafter and at such
     frequency as Lender shall require, Borrower shall execute and deliver to
     Lender such supplemental schedules of Eligible Accounts and Eligible
     Inventory and such other matters and information relating to the Accounts
     and Inventory as Lender may request.

     REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES CONCERNING ACCOUNTS. With respect to the
     Accounts, Borrower represents and warrants to Lender: (a) Each Account
     represented by Borrower to be an Eligible Account for purposes of this
     Agreement conforms to the requirements of the definition of an Eligible
     Account; (b) All Account information listed on schedules delivered to
     Lender will be true and correct, subject to immaterial variance; and (c)
     Lender, its assigns, or agents shall have the right at any time and at
     Borrower's expense to inspect, examine, and audit Borrower's records and to
     confirm with Account Debtors the accuracy of such Accounts.

     REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES CONCERNING INVENTORY. With respect to the
     Inventory, Borrower represents and warrants to Lender: (a) All Inventory
     represented by Borrower to be Eligible Inventory for purposes of this
     Agreement conforms to the requirements of the definition of Eligible

<PAGE>   4

09-30-1997                         LOAN AGREEMENT                         PAGE 4
LOAN NO                             (CONTINUED)
================================================================================

     Inventory; (b) All Inventory values listed on schedules delivered to Lender
     will be true and correct, subject to immaterial variance; (c) The value of
     the inventory will be determined on a consistent accounting basis; (d)
     Except for trailers or as agreed to the contrary by Lender in writing, all
     Eligible Inventory is now and at all times hereafter will be in Borrower's
     physical possession and shall not be held by others on consignment, sale on
     approval, or sale or return; (e) Except as reflected in the Inventory
     schedules delivered to Lender, all Eligible inventory is now and at all
     times hereafter will be of good and merchantable qualify, free from
     defects; (f) Eligible inventory is not now and will not at any time
     hereafter be stored with a bailee, warehouseman, or similar party without
     Lender's prior written consent, and, in such event, Borrower will
     concurrently at the time of bailment cause any such bailee, warehouseman,
     or similar party to issue and deliver to Lender, in form acceptable to
     Lender, warehouse receipts in Lender's name evidencing the storage of
     Inventory; and (g) Lender, its assigns, or agents shall have the right at
     any time and at Borrower's expense to inspect and examine the inventory and
     to check and test the same as to quality, quantity, value, and condition.

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. Borrower represents and warrants to Lender, as
of the date of this Agreement, as of the date of each disbursement of Loan
proceeds, as of the date of any renewal, extension or modification of any Loan,
and at all times any Indebtedness exists:

     ORGANIZATION. Borrower is a corporation which is duly organized, validly
     existing, and in good standing under the laws of the State of Delaware and
     is validly existing and in good standing in all states in which Borrower is
     doing business. Borrower has the full power and authority to own its
     properties and to transact the businesses in which it is presently engaged
     or presently proposes to engage. Borrower also is duly qualified as a
     foreign corporation and is in good standing in all states in which the
     failure to so qualify would have a material adverse effect on its
     businesses or financial condition.

     AUTHORIZATION. The execution, delivery, and performance of this Agreement
     and all Related Documents by Borrower, to the extent to be executed,
     delivered or performed by Borrower, have been duly authorized by all
     necessary action by Borrower; do not require the consent or approval of any
     other person, regulatory authority or governmental body; and do not
     conflict with, result in a violation of, or constitute a default under (a)
     any provision of its articles of incorporation or organization, or bylaws
     or code of regulations, or any agreement or other instrument binding upon
     Borrower or (b) any law, governmental regulation, court decree, or order
     applicable to Borrower.

     FINANCIAL INFORMATION. Each financial statement of Borrower supplied to
     Lender truly and completely disclosed Borrower's financial condition as of
     the date of the statement, and there has been no material adverse change in
     Borrower's financial condition subsequent to the date of the most recent
     financial statement supplied to Lender. Borrower has no material contingent
     obligations except as disclosed in such financial statements.

     LEGAL EFFECT. This Agreement constitutes, and any instrument or agreement
     required hereunder to be given by Borrower when delivered will constitute,
     legal, valid and binding obligations of Borrower enforceable against
     Borrower in accordance with their respective terms.

     PROPERTIES. Except for Permitted Liens, Borrower owns and has good title to
     all of Borrower's properties free and clear of all Security Interests, and
     has not executed any security documents or financing statements relating to
     such properties. All of Borrower's properties are titled in Borrower's
     legal name, and Borrower has not used, or filed a financing statement
     under, any other name for at least the last five (5) years.

     HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES. The terms "hazardous waste," "hazardous substance,"
     "disposal," "release," and "threatened release," as used in this Agreement,
     shall have the same meanings as set forth in the "CERCLA," "SARA," the
     Hazardous Materials Transportation Act, 49 U.S.C. Section 1801, et seq.,
     the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, 42 U.S.C. Section 6901, et
     seq., or other applicable state or Federal laws, rules, or regulations
     adopted pursuant to any of the foregoing. Except as disclosed to and
     acknowledged by Lender in writing, Borrower represents and warrants that:
     (a) During the period of Borrower's ownership of the properties, there has
     been no use, generation, manufacture, storage, treatment, disposal, release
     or threatened release of any hazardous waste or substance by any person on,
     under, about or from any of the properties. (b) Borrower has no knowledge
     of, or reason to believe that there has been (i) any use, generation,
     manufacture, storage, treatment, disposal, release, or threatened release
     of any hazardous waste or substance on, under, about or from the properties
     by any prior owners or occupants of any of the properties, or (ii) any
     actual or threatened litigation or claims of any kind by any person
     relating to such matters. (c) Neither Borrower nor any tenant, contractor,
     agent or other authorized user of any of the properties shall use,
     generate, manufacture, store, treat, dispose of, or release any hazardous
     waste or substance on, under, about or from any of the properties; and any
     such activity shall be conducted in compliance with all applicable federal,
     state, and local laws, regulations, and ordinances, including without
     limitation those laws, regulations and ordinances described above. Borrower
     authorizes Lender and its agents to enter upon the properties to make such
     inspections and tests as Lender may deem appropriate to determine
     compliance of the properties with this section of the Agreement Any
     inspections or tests made by Lender shall be at Borrower's expense and for
     Lender's purposes only and shall not be construed to create any
     responsibility or liability on the part of Lender to Borrower or to any
     other person. The representations and warranties contained herein are based
     on Borrower's due diligence in investigating the properties for hazardous
     waste and hazardous substances. Borrower hereby (a) releases and waives any
     future claims against Lender for indemnity or contribution in the event
     Borrower becomes liable for cleanup or other costs under any such laws, and
     (b) agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Lender against any and all
     claims, losses, liabilities, damages, penalties, and expenses which Lender
     may directly or indirectly sustain or suffer resulting from a breach of
     this section of the Agreement or as a consequence of any use, generation,
     manufacture, storage, disposal, release or threatened release occurring
     prior to Borrower's ownership or interest in the properties, whether or not
     the same was or should have been known to Borrower. The provisions of this
     section of the Agreement, including the obligation to indemnify, shall
     survive the payment of the Indebtedness and the termination or expiration
     of this Agreement and shall not be affected by Lender's acquisition of any
     interest in any of the properties, whether by foreclosure or otherwise.

     LITIGATION AND CLAIMS. No litigation, claim, investigation, administrative
     proceeding or similar action (including those for unpaid taxes) against
     Borrower is pending or threatened, and no other event has occurred which
     may materially adversely affect Borrower's financial condition or
     properties, other than litigation, claims, or other events, if any, that
     have been disclosed to and acknowledged by Lender in writing.

     TAXES. To the best of Borrower's knowledge, all tax returns and reports of
     Borrower that are or were required to be filed, have been filed, and all
     taxes, assessments and other governmental charges have been paid in full,
     except those presently being or to be contested by Borrower in good faith
     in the ordinary course of business and for which adequate reserves have
     been provided.

     LIEN PRIORITY. Unless otherwise previously disclosed to Lender in writing,
     Borrower has not entered into or granted any Security Agreements, or
     permitted the filing or attachment of any Security Interests on or
     affecting any of the Collateral directly or indirectly securing repayment
     of Borrower's Loan and Note, that would be prior or that may in any way be
     superior to Lender's Security Interests and rights in and to such
     Collateral.

     BINDING EFFECT. This Agreement, the Note, all Security Agreements directly
     or indirectly securing repayment of Borrower's Loan and Note and all of the
     Related Documents are binding upon Borrower as well as upon Borrower's
     successors, representatives and assigns, and are legally enforceable in
     accordance with their respective terms.

     COMMERCIAL PURPOSES. Borrower intends to use the Loan proceeds solely for
     business or commercial related purposes.

     EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS. Each employee benefit plan as to which Borrower may
     have any liability complies in all material respects with all applicable
     requirements of law and regulations, and (i) no Reportable Event nor
     Prohibited Transaction (as defined in ERISA) has occurred with respect to
     any such plan, (ii) Borrower has not withdrawn from any such plan or
     initiated steps to do so, (iii) no steps have been taken to terminate any
     such plan, and (iv) there are no unfunded liabilities other than those
     previously disclosed to Lender in writing.

     LOCATION OF BORROWER'S OFFICES AND RECORDS. Borrower's place of business,
     or Borrower's Chief executive office, it Borrower has more than one

<PAGE>   5

09-30-1997                         LOAN AGREEMENT                         PAGE 5
LOAN NO                             (CONTINUED)
================================================================================


     place of business, is located at 753 W. Waterloo Rd., Akron, OH 44314.
     Unless Borrower has designated otherwise in writing this location is also
     the office or offices where Borrower keeps its records concerning the
     Collateral.

     INFORMATION. All information heretofore or contemporaneously herewith
     furnished by Borrower to Lender for the purposes of or in connection with
     this Agreement or any transaction contemplated hereby is, and all
     information hereafter furnished by or on behalf of Borrower to Lender will
     be, true and accurate in every material respect on the date as of which
     such information is dated or certified; and none of such information is or
     will be incomplete by omitting to state any material fact necessary to make
     such information not misleading.

     SURVIVAL OF REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. Borrower understands and agrees
     that Lender, without independent investigation, is relying upon the above
     representations and warranties in extending Loan Advances to Borrower.
     Borrower further agrees that the foregoing representations and warranties
     shall be continuing in nature and shall remain in full force and effect
     until such time as Borrower's Indebtedness shall be paid in full, or until
     this Agreement shall be terminated in the manner provided above, whichever
     is the last to occur.

     AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS. Borrower covenants and agrees with Lender that,
     while this Agreement is In effect, Borrower will:

     LITIGATION. Promptly inform Lender in writing of (a) all material adverse
     changes in Borrower's financial condition, and (b) all existing and all
     threatened litigation, claims, investigations, administrative proceedings
     or similar actions affecting Borrower or any Guarantor which could
     materially affect the financial condition of Borrower or the financial
     condition of any Guarantor.

     FINANCIAL RECORDS. Maintain its books and records in accordance with
     generally accepted accounting principles, applied on a consistent basis,
     and permit Lender to examine and audit Borrower's books and records at all
     reasonable times.

     FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. Furnish Lender with, as soon as available, but in no
     event later than ninety (90) days after the end of each fiscal year,
     Borrower's consolidated balance sheet and income statement for the year
     ended, audited by a certified public accountant satisfactory to Lender,
     and, as soon as available, but in no event later than thirty (30) days
     after the end of each month, Borrower's consolidated balance sheet and
     profit and loss statement for the period ended, prepared and certified as
     correct to the best knowledge and belief by Borrower's chief financial
     officer or other officer or person acceptable to Lender. All financial
     reports required to be provided under this Agreement shall be prepared in
     accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, applied on a
     consistent basis, and certified by Borrower as being true and correct.

     ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. Furnish such additional information and statements,
     lists of assets and liabilities aging of receivables and payables,
     inventory schedules, budgets, forecasts, tax returns and other reports with
     respect to Borrower's financial condition and business operations as Lender
     may request from time to time.

     FINANCIAL COVENANTS AND RATIOS. Comply with the following covenants and
     ratios: 

          TANGIBLE NET WORTH. Maintain a minimum consolidated tangible net worth
          of not less that $10,300,000.00 including Subordinated Debt due from
          Albex Aluminum, Inc. to Jacob Pollock and Signs and Blanks, Inc. to J.
          Pollock & Company. This covenant is to be tested quarterly.

          CASH FLOW REQUIREMENTS. Maintain Cash Flow at not less than the
          following level: 1.2 TIMES THE CONSOLIDATED SUM OF CURRENT MATURITIES
          OF LONG-TERM DEBT PAID, PLUS DIVIDENDS, PLUS CAPITAL EXPENDITURES NOT
          FUNDED BY TERM DEBT OR UNDER THE KENT IRB. THIS COVENANT IS TO BE
          TESTED QUARTERLY USING THE ACCUMULATED TOTAL OF THE PREVIOUS FOUR
          QUARTERS, EXCEPT FOR ALBEX ALUMINUM, INC. AND SIGNS AND BLANKS
          QUARTERS, THEREAFTER. Except as provided above, all computations made
          to determine compliance with the requirements contained in this Inc.,
          one quarter shall be used at September 30, 1997, two quarters at
          December ,31, 1997, three quarters at March 31, 1998 and four
          paragraph shall be made in accordance with generally accepted
          accounting principles, applied on a consistent basis, and certified by
          Borrower as being true and correct.

          INSURANCE. Maintain fire and other risk insurance, public liability
          insurance, and such other insurance as Lender may require with respect
          to Borrower's properties and operations, in form, amounts, coverages
          and with insurance companies reasonably acceptable to Lender.
          Borrower, upon request of Lender, will deliver to Lender from time to
          time the policies or certificates of insurance in form satisfactory to
          Lender, including stipulations that coverages will not be cancelled or
          diminished without at least ten (10) days' prior written notice to
          Lender. Each insurance policy also shall include an endorsement
          providing that coverage in favor of Lender will not be impaired in any
          way by any act, omission or default of Borrower or any other person.
          In connection with all policies covering assets in which Lender holds
          or is offered a security interest for the Loans, Borrower will provide
          Lender with such loss payable or other endorsements as Lender may
          require.

     INSURANCE REPORTS. Furnish to Lender, upon request of Lender, reports on
     each existing insurance policy showing such information as Lender may
     reasonably request, including without limitation the following: (a) the
     name of the insurer; (b) the risks insured; (c) the amount of the policy;
     (d) the properties insured; (e) the then current property values on the
     basis of which insurance has been obtained, and the manner of determining
     those values; and (f) the expiration date of the policy. In addition, upon
     request of Lender (however not more often than annually), Borrower will
     have an independent appraiser satisfactory to Lender determine, as
     applicable, the actual cash value or replacement cost of any Collateral.
     The cost of such appraisal shall be paid by Borrower.

     GUARANTIES. Prior to disbursement of any Loan proceeds, furnish executed
     guaranties of the Loans in favor of Lender, executed by the guarantor named
     below, on Lender's forms, and in the amount and under the conditions
     spelled cut in those guaranties. 

                         GUARANTOR                          AMOUNT 
                         ---------                          ------ 
                         JACOB POLLOCK               $2,500,000.00

     OTHER AGREEMENTS. Comply with all terms and conditions of all other
     agreements, whether now or hereafter existing, between Borrower and any
     other party and notify Lender immediately in writing of any default in
     connection with any other such agreements. 

     LOAN PROCEEDS. Use all Loan proceeds solely for Borrower's business
     operations, unless specifically consented to the contrary by Lender in
     writing.

     TAXES, CHARGES AND LIENS. Pay and discharge when due all of its
     indebtedness and obligations, including without limitation all assessments,
     taxes, governmental charges, levies and liens, of every kind and nature,
     imposed upon Borrower or its properties, income, or profits, prior to the
     date on which penalties would attach, and all lawful claims that, if
     unpaid, might become a lien or charge upon any of Borrower's properties,
     income, or profits. Provided however, Borrower will not be required to pay
     and discharge any such assessment, tax, charge, levy, lien or claim so long
     as (a) the legality of the same shall be contested in good faith by
     appropriate proceedings, and (b) Borrower shall have established on its
     books adequate reserves with respect to such contested assessment, tax,
     charge, levy, lien, or claim in accordance with generally accepted
     accounting practices. Borrower, upon demand of Lender, will furnish to
     Lender evidence of payment of the assessments, taxes, charges, levies,
     liens and claims and will authorize the appropriate governmental official
     to deliver to Lender at any time a written statement of any assessments,
     taxes, charges, levies, liens and claims against Borrower's properties,
     income, or profits.

     PERFORMANCE. Perform and comply with all terms, conditions, and provisions
     set forth in this Agreement and in the Related Documents in a timely
     manner, and promptly notify Lender If Borrower learns of the occurrence of
     any event which constitutes an Event of Default under this Agreement or
     under any of the Related Documents.

     OPERATIONS. Maintain executive and management personnel with substantially
     the same qualifications and experience as the present executive and
     management personnel; conduct its business affairs 

<PAGE>   6

09-30-1997                         LOAN AGREEMENT                         PAGE 6
LOAN NO                             (CONTINUED)
================================================================================

     in a reasonable and prudent manner and in compliance with all applicable
     federal, state and municipal laws, ordinances, rules and regulations
     respecting its properties, charters, businesses and operations, including
     without limitation, compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act and
     with all minimum funding standards and other requirements of ERISA and
     other laws applicable to Borrower's employee benefit plans.

     INSPECTION. Permit employees or agents of Lender at any reasonable time to
     inspect any and all Collateral for the Loan or Loans and Borrower's other
     properties and to examine or audit Borrower's books, accounts, and records
     and to make copies and memoranda of Borrower's books, accounts, and
     records. If Borrower now or at any time hereafter maintains any records
     (including without limitation computer generated records and computer
     software programs for the generation of such records) in the possession of
     a third party, Borrower, upon request of Lender, shall notify such party to
     permit Lender free access to such records at all reasonable times and to
     provide Lender with copies of any records it may request, all at Borrower's
     expense.

     COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATE. Unless waived in writing by Lender, provide Lender
     at least annually and at the time of each disbursement of Loan proceeds
     with a certificate executed by Borrower's chief financial officer, or other
     officer or person acceptable to Lender, certifying that the representations
     and warranties set forth in this Agreement are true and correct as of the
     date of the certificate and further certifying that, as of the date of the
     certificate, no Event of Default exists under this Agreement.

     ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND REPORTS. Borrower shall comply in all respects
     with all environmental protection federal, state and local laws, statutes,
     regulations and ordinances; not cause or permit to exist, as a result of an
     intentional or unintentional action or omission on its part or on the part
     of any third party, on property owned and/or occupied by Borrower, any
     environmental activity where damage may result to the environment, unless
     such environmental activity is pursuant to and in compliance with the
     conditions of a permit issued by the appropriate federal, state or local
     governmental authorities; shall furnish to Lender promptly and in any event
     within thirty (30) days after receipt thereof a copy of any notice,
     summons, lien, citation, directive, letter or other communication from any
     governmental agency or instrumentality concerning any intentional or
     unintentional action or omission on Borrower's part in connection with any
     environmental activity whether or not there is damage to the environment
     and/or other natural resources.

     ADDITIONAL ASSURANCES. Make, execute and deliver to Lender such promissory
     notes, mortgages, deeds of trust, security agreements, financing
     statements, instruments, documents and other agreements as Lender or its
     attorneys may reasonably request to evidence and secure the Loans and to
     perfect all Security Interests.

NEGATIVE COVENANTS. Borrower covenants and agrees with Lender that while this
Agreement is in effect, Borrower shall not, without the prior written consent of
Lender:

     INDEBTEDNESS AND LIENS. (a) Except for trade debt incurred in the normal
     course of business and indebtedness to Lender contemplated by this
     Agreement, create, incur or assume indebtedness for borrowed money,
     including capital leases, (b) except as allowed as a Permitted Lien, sell,
     transfer, mortgage, assign, pledge, lease, grant a security interest in, or
     encumber any of Borrower's assets, or (c) sell with recourse any of
     Borrower's accounts, except to Lender.

     CONTINUITY OF OPERATIONS. (a) Engage in any business activities
     substantially different than those in which Borrower is presently engaged,
     (b) cease operations, liquidate, merge, transfer, acquire or consolidate
     with any other entity, change ownership, change its name, dissolve or
     transfer or sell Collateral out of the ordinary course of business, (c) pay
     any dividends on Borrower's stock (other than dividends payable in its
     stock), provided, however that notwithstanding the foregoing, but only so
     long as no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing or would result
     from the payment of dividends, if Borrower is a "Subchapter S Corporation"
     (as defined in the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended), Borrower may
     pay cash dividends on its stock to its shareholders from time to time in
     amounts necessary to enable the shareholders to pay income taxes and make
     estimated income tax payments to satisfy their liabilities under federal
     and state law which arise solely from their status as Shareholders of a
     Subchapter S Corporation because of their ownership of shares of stock of
     Borrower, or (d) purchase or retire any of Borrower's outstanding shares or
     alter or amend Borrower's capital structure.

     LOANS, ACQUISITIONS AND GUARANTIES. (a) Loan, invest in or advance money or
     assets, (b) purchase, create or acquire any interest in any other
     enterprise or entity, or (c) incur any obligation as surety or guarantor
     other than in the ordinary course of business.

CESSATION OF ADVANCES. If Lender has made any commitment to make any Loan to
Borrower, whether under this Agreement or under any other agreement, Lender
shall have no obligation to make Loan Advances or to disburse Loan proceeds if:
(a) Borrower or any Guarantor is in default under the terms of this Agreement or
any of the Related Documents or any other agreement that Borrower or any
Guarantor has with Lender; (b) Borrower or any Guarantor becomes insolvent,
files a petition in bankruptcy or similar proceedings, or is adjudged a
bankrupt; (c) there occurs a material adverse change in Borrower's financial
condition, in the financial condition of any Guarantor, or in the value of any
Collateral securing any Loan; (d) any Guarantor seeks, claims or otherwise
attempts to limit, modify or revoke such Guarantor's guaranty of the Loan or any
other loan with Lender.

EVENTS OF DEFAULT. Each of the following shall constitute an Event of Default
under this Agreement:

     DEFAULT ON INDEBTEDNESS. Failure of Borrower to make any payment when due
     on the Loans.

     OTHER DEFAULTS. Failure of Borrower or any Grantor to comply with or to
     perform when due any other term, obligation, covenant or condition
     contained in this Agreement or in any of the Related Documents, or failure
     of Borrower to comply with or to perform any other term, obligation,
     covenant or condition contained in any other agreement between Lender and
     Borrower.

     DEFAULT IN FAVOR OF THIRD PARTIES. Should Borrower or any Grantor default
     under any loan, extension of credit, security agreement, purchase or sales
     agreement, or any other agreement, in favor of any other creditor or person
     that may materially affect any of Borrower's property or Borrower's or any
     Grantor's ability to repay the Loans or perform their respective
     obligations under this Agreement or any of the Related Documents. 

     FALSE STATEMENTS. Any warranty, representation or statement made or
     furnished to Lender by or on behalf of Borrower or any Grantor under this
     Agreement or the Related Documents is false or misleading in any material
     respect at the time made or furnished, or becomes false or misleading at
     any time thereafter.

     DEFECTIVE COLLATERALIZATION. This Agreement or any of the Related Documents
     ceases to be in full force and effect (including failure of any Security
     Agreement to create a valid and perfected Security Interest) at any time
     and for any reason.

     INSOLVENCY. The dissolution or termination of Borrower's existence as a
     going business, the insolvency of Borrower, the appointment of a receiver
     for any part of Borrower's property, any assignment for the benefit of
     creditors, any type of creditor workout, or the commencement of any
     proceeding under any bankruptcy or insolvency laws by or against Borrower.

     CREDITOR OR FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS. Commencement of foreclosure or
     forfeiture proceedings, whether by judicial proceeding, self-help,
     repossession or any other method, by any creditor of Borrower, any creditor
     of any Grantor against any collateral securing the Indebtedness, or by any
     governmental agency. This includes a garnishment, attachment, or levy on or
     of any of Borrower's deposit accounts with Lender. However, this Event of
     Default shall not apply if there is a good faith dispute by Borrower or
     Grantor, as the case may be, as to the validity or reasonableness of the
     claim which is the basis of the creditor or forfeiture proceeding, and if
     Borrower or Grantor gives Lender written notice of the creditor or

<PAGE>   7

09-30-1997                         LOAN AGREEMENT                         PAGE 7
LOAN NO                             (CONTINUED)
================================================================================

     forfeiture proceeding and furnishes reserves or a surety bond for the
     creditor or forfeiture proceeding satisfactory to Lender.

     EVENTS AFFECTING GUARANTOR. Any of the preceding events occurs with respect
     to any Guarantor of any of the Indebtedness or any Guarantor dies or
     becomes incompetent, or revokes or disputes the validity of, or liability
     under, any Guaranty of the Indebtedness. Lender, at its option, may, but
     shall not be required to, permit the Guarantor's estate to assume
     unconditionally the obligations arising under the guaranty in a manner
     satisfactory to Lender, and, in doing so, cure the Event of Default. 

     CHANGE IN OWNERSHIP. The failure of Jacob Pollock, or the trustee(s) of the
     trust(s) for the benefit of Jacob Pollock's family, or the executor of
     Jacob Pollock's estate to own at least 51% of the voting securities of the
     Borrower.

     ADVERSE CHANGE. A material adverse change occurs in Borrower's financial
     condition, or Lender believes the prospect of payment or performance of the
     Indebtedness is impaired.

     RIGHT TO CURE. If any default other than a Default on Indebtedness, is
     curable and if Borrower or Grantor, as the case may be, has not been given
     a notice of a similar default within the preceding twelve (12) months, it
     may be cured (and no Event of Default will have occurred) if Borrower or
     Grantor as the case may be after receiving written notice from Lender
     demanding cure of such default: (a) cures the default within fifteen (15)
     days or (b) It the cure requires more than fifteen (15) days immediately
     initiates steps which Lender deems in Lender's sole discretion to be
     sufficient to cure the default and thereafter continues and completes all
     reasonable and necessary steps sufficient to produce compliance as soon as
     reasonably practical.

EFFECT OF AN EVENT OF DEFAULT. If any Event of Default shall occur, except where
otherwise provided in this Agreement or the Related Documents, all commitments
and obligations of Lender under this Agreement or the Related Documents or any
other agreement immediately will terminate (including any obligation to make
Loan Advances or disbursements), and, at Lender's option, all Indebtedness
immediately will become due and payable, all without notice of any kind to
Borrower, except that in the case of an Event of Default of the type described
in the "Insolvency" subsection above, such acceleration shall be automatic and
not optional. In addition, Lender shall have all the rights and remedies
provided in the Related Documents or available at law, in equity, or
otherwise. Except as may be prohibited by applicable law, all of Lender's rights
and remedies shall be cumulative and may be exercised singularly or
concurrently. Election by Lender to pursue any remedy shall not exclude pursuit
of any other remedy, and an election to make expenditures or to take action to
perform an obligation of Borrower or of any Grantor shall not affect Lender's
right to declare a default and to exercise its rights and remedies. 

MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS. The following miscellaneous provisions are a part of
this Agreement: 

     AMENDMENTS. This Agreement, together with any Related Documents,
     constitutes the entire understanding and agreement of the parties as to the
     matters set forth in this Agreement. No alteration of or amendment to this
     Agreement shall be effective unless given in writing and signed by the
     party or parties sought to be charged or bound by the alteration or
     amendment.

     APPLICABLE LAW. THIS AGREEMENT HAS BEEN DELIVERED TO LENDER AND ACCEPTED BY
     LENDER IN THE STATE OF OHIO. IF THERE IS A LAWSUIT, BORROWER AGREES UPON
     LENDER'S REQUEST TO SUBMIT TO THE JURISDICTION OF THE COURTS OF SUMMIT
     COUNTY, THE STATE OF OHIO. THIS AGREEMERRT SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND
     CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF OHIO.

     CAPTION HEADINGS. Caption headings in this Agreement are for convenience
     purposes only and are not to be used to interpret or define the provisions
     of this Agreement. 

     MULTIPLE PARTIES; CORPORATE AUTHORITY. All obligations of Borrower under
     this Agreement shall be joint and several, and all references to Borrower
     shall mean each and every Borrower. This means that each of the persons
     signing below is responsible for ALL obligations in this Agreement.

     CONSENT TO LOAN PARTICIPATION. Borrower agrees and consents to Lender's
     sale or transfer, whether now or later, of one or more participation
     interests in the Loans to one or more purchasers, whether related or
     unrelated to Lender. Lender may provide, without any limitation whatsoever,
     to any one or more purchasers, or potential purchasers, any information or
     knowledge Lender may have about Borrower or about any other matter relating
     to the Loan, and Borrower hereby waives any rights to privacy it may have
     with respect to such matters. Borrower additionally waives any and all
     notices of sale of participation interests, as well as all notices of any
     repurchase of such participation interests. Borrower also agrees that the
     purchasers of any such participation interests will be considered as the
     absolute owners of such interests in the Loans and will have all the rights
     granted under the participation agreement or agreements governing the sale
     of such participation interests. Borrower further waives all rights of
     offset or counterclaim that it may have now or later against Lender or
     against any purchaser of such a participation interest and unconditionally
     agrees that either Lender or such purchaser may enforce Borrower's
     obligation under the Loans irrespective of the failure or insolvency of any
     holder of any interest in the Loans. Borrower further agrees that the
     purchaser of any such participation interests may enforce its interests
     irrespective of any personal claims or defenses that Borrower may have
     against Lender. 

     COSTS AND EXPENSES. Borrower agrees to pay upon demand all of Lender's
     expenses, including without limitation attorneys' fees, incurred in
     connection with the preparation, execution, enforcement, modification and
     collection of this Agreement or in connection with the Loans made pursuant
     to this Agreement. Lender may pay someone else to help collect the Loans
     and to enforce this Agreement, and Borrower will pay that amount. This
     includes, subject to any limits under applicable law, Lender's attorneys'
     fees and Lender's legal expenses, whether or not there is a lawsuit,
     including attorneys' fees for bankruptcy proceedings (including efforts to
     modify or vacate any automatic stay or injunction), appeals, and any
     anticipated post-judgment collection services. Borrower also will pay any
     court costs, in addition to all other sums provided by law.

     NOTICES. All notices required to be given under this Agreement shall be
     given in writing, may be sent by telefacsimile, and shall be effective when
     actually delivered or when deposited with a nationally recognized overnight
     courier or deposited in the United States mail, first class, postage
     prepaid, addressed to the party to whom the notice is to be given at the
     address shown above. Any party may change its address for notices under
     this Agreement by giving formal written notice to the other parties,
     specifying that the purpose of the notice is to change the party's address.
     To the extent permitted by applicable law, if there is more than one
     Borrower, notice to any Borrower will constitute notice to all Borrowers.
     For notice purposes, Borrower will keep Lender informed at all times of
     Borrower's current address(es).

     SEVERABILITY. If a court of competent jurisdiction finds any provision of
     this Agreement to be invalid or unenforceable as to any person or
     circumstance, such finding shall not render that provision invalid or
     unenforceable as to any other persons or circumstances. If feasible, any
     such offending provision shall be deemed to be modified to be within the
     limits of enforceability or validity; however, if the offending provision
     cannot be so modified, it shall be stricken and all other provisions of
     this Agreement in all other respects shall remain valid and enforceable.

     SUBSIDIARIES AND AFFILIATES OF BORROWER. To the extent the context of any
     provisions of this Agreement makes it appropriate, including without
     limitation any representation, warranty or covenant, the word "Borrower" as
     used herein shall include all subsidiaries and affiliates of Borrower.
     Notwithstanding the foregoing however, under no circumstances shall this
     Agreement be construed to require Lender to make any Loan or other
     financial accommodation to any subsidiary or affiliate of Borrower.

     SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS. All covenants and agreements contained by or on
     behalf of Borrower shall bind its successors and assigns and shall inure to
     the benefit of Lender, its successors and assigns. Borrower shall not,
     however, have the right to assign its rights under this Agreement or any
     interest therein, without the prior written consent of Lender.

     SURVIVAL. All warranties, representations, and covenants made by Borrower
     in this Agreement or in any certificate or other instrument delivered by

<PAGE>   8

09-30-1997                         LOAN AGREEMENT                         PAGE 8
LOAN NO                             (CONTINUED)
================================================================================

     Borrower to Lender under this Agreement shall be considered to have been
     relied upon by Lender and will survive the making of the Loan and delivery
     to Lender of the Related Documents, regardless of any investigation made by
     Lender or on Lender's behalf.

     TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE. Time is of the essence in the performance of this
     Agreement.

     WAIVER. Lender shall not be deemed to have waived any rights under this
     Agreement unless such waiver is given in writing and signed by Lender. No
     delay or omission on the part of Lender in exercising any right shall
     operate as a waiver of such right or any other right. A waiver by Lender of
     a provision of this Agreement shall not prejudice or constitute a waiver
     of Lender's right otherwise to demand strict compliance with that provision
     or any other provision of this Agreement. No prior waiver by Lender, nor
     any course of dealing between Lender and Borrower, or between Lender and
     any Grantor, shall constitute a waiver of any of Lender's rights or of any
     obligations of Borrower or of any Grantor as to any future transactions.
     Whenever the consent of Lender is required under this Agreement, the
     granting of such consent by Lender in any instance shall not constitute
     continuing consent in subsequent instances where such consent is required,
     and in all cases such consent may be granted or withheld in the sole
     discretion of Lender.


BORROWER ACKNOWLEDGES HAVING READ ALL THE PROVISIONS OF THIS LOAN AGREEMENT, AND
BORROWER AGREES TO ITS TERMS. THIS AGREEMENT IS DATED AS OF SEPTEMBER 30, 1997.

BORROWER:

RVM INDUSTRIES INC; RAVENS, INC.; SIGNS AND BLANKS INC.; ALBEX ALUMINUM, INC.

BY:
    -----------------------------------------------------

    JACOB POLLOCK, CHAIRMAN, CEO, TREASURER OF RVM INDUSTRIES, INC.

BY:
    -----------------------------------------------------
    RICHARD D. POLLOCK, PRESIDENT, COO OF RVM INDUSTRIES, INC.

BY: /s/ JOHN J. STITZ
    -----------------------------------------------------
    JOHN J. STITZ, VICE PRESIDENT, CFO OF RVM INDUSTRIES, INC.

BY: 
    -----------------------------------------------------
    JACOB POLLOCK, CHAIRMAN, CEO TREASURER OF RAVENS, INC.

BY: /s/ JOHN J. STITZ
    -----------------------------------------------------
    JOHN J. STITZ, VICE PRESIDENT, CFO OF RAVENS, INC.

BY:
    -----------------------------------------------------
    JACOB POLLOCK, CEO OF SIGNS AND BLANKS, INC.

BY:
    -----------------------------------------------------
    RICHARD D. POLLOCK, TREASURER OF SIGNS AND BLANKS, INC.

BY: /s/ JOHN J. STITZ
    -----------------------------------------------------
    JOHN J. STITZ, VICE PRESIDENT OF SIGNS AND BLANKS, INC.

BY:
    -----------------------------------------------------
    JACOB POLLOCK, CEO OF ALBEX ALUMINUM, INC.

BY:
    -----------------------------------------------------
    RICHARD D. POLLOCK, TREASURER OF ALBEX ALUMINUM, INC.

BY: /s/ JOHN J. STITZ
    -----------------------------------------------------
    JOHN J. STITZ, VICE PRESIDENT OF ALBEX ALUMINUM INC.


LENDER:

FIRSTMERIT BANK, N.A.


BY: /s/ James V. Cannella
    -----------------------------------------------------
    AUTHORIZED OFFICER

================================================================================
<PAGE>   9
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<CAPTION>
================================================================================================================
<S>              <C>            <C>           <C>          <C>       <C>         <C>        <C>       <C>
  PRINCIPAL       LOAN DATE      MATURITY      LOAN NO     CALL      COILATERAI   ACCOUNT    OFFICER  INITIALS
$15,000,000.00   09-30-1997     08-31-1999                               UCC                   JVC
================================================================================================================
</TABLE>
References in the shaded area are for Lender's use only and do not limit the
applicability of this document to any particular loan or item.
<TABLE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                        <C>
Borrower:  RVM Industries, Inc.; Ravens, Inc.; Signs and   Lender:  FirstMerit Bank, N.A.
           Blanks, Inc.; Albex Aluminum, Inc.;                     Asset Based Lending
           753 W. Waterloo Rd.;                                     106 South Main Street
           Akron, OH 44314                                          Akron, OH 44308
===========================================================================================

PRINCIPAL AMOUNT: $15,000,000.00  INITIAL RATE: 8.250%  DATE OF NOTE: SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
</TABLE>


PROMISE TO PAY. RVM Industries, Inc.; Ravens, Inc.; Signs and Blanks, Inc.;
Albex Aluminum, Inc. ("Borrower") promises to pay to FirstMerit Bank, N.A.
("Lender"), or order, in lawful money of the United States of America, the
principal amount of Fifteen Million & 00/100 Dollars ($15,000,000.00) or so much
as may be outstanding, together with interest on the unpaid outstanding
principal balance of each advance. Interest shall be calculated from the date of
each advance until repayment of each advance.

PAYMENT. Borrower will pay this loan in one payment of all outstanding principal
plus all accrued unpaid interest on August 31, 1999. In addition, Borrower wIll
pay regular monthly payments of accrued unpaid interest beginning October
31,1997, and all subsequent Interest payments are due on the same day of each
month after that. Interest on this Note is computed on a 365/360 simple interest
basis; that is, by applying the ratio of the annual interest rate over a year of
380 days, multiplied by the outstanding principal balance, multiplied by the
actual number of days the principal balance is outstanding. Borrower will pay
Lender at Lender's address shown above or at such other place as Lender may
designate in writing. Unless otherwise agreed or required by applicable law,
payments will be applied first to accrued unpaid interest, then to principal,
and any remaining amount to any unpaid collection costs and late charges.

VARIABLE INTEREST RATE. The interest rate on this Note is subject to change from
time to time based on changes in an index which is Lender's Prime Rate (the
"Index"). This is the rate Lender charges, or would charge, on 90-day unsecured
loans to the most creditworthy corporate customers. This rate may or may not be
the lowest rate available from Lender at any given time. Lender will tell
Borrower the current Index rate upon Borrower's request. Borrower understands
that Lender may make loans based on other rates as well. The interest rate
change will not occur more often than each day as prime changes. THE INDEX
CURRENTLY IS 8.500% PER ANNUM. THE INTEREST RATE TO BE APPLIED TO THE UNPAID
PRINCIPAL BALANCE OF THIS NOTE WILL BE AT A RATE OF 0.250 PERCENTAGE POINTS
UNDER THE INDEX, RESULTING IN AN INITIAL RATE OF 8.250% PER ANNUM. NOTICE:
Under no circumstances will the interest rate on this Note be more than the
maximum rate allowed by applicable law.

PREPAYMENT. Borrower may pay without penalty all or a portion of the amount owed
earlier than it is due. Early payments will not, unless agreed to by Lender in
writing, relieve Borrower of Borrower's obligation to continue to make payments
of accrued unpaid interest Rather, they will reduce the principal balance due.

LATE CHARGE. If a payment is 10 DAYS OR MORE LATE, Borrower will be charged
5.00% OF THE UNPAID PORTION OF THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED PAYMENT OR $35.00,
WHICHEVER IS GREATER.

DEFAULT. Borrower will be in default if any of the following happens: (a)
Borrower falls to make any payment when due. (b) Borrower breaks any promise
Borrower has made to Lender, or Borrower fails to comply with or to perform when
due any other term, obligation, covenant, or condition contained in this Note or
any agreement related to this Note, or in any other agreement or loan Borrower
has with Lender. (c) Borrower defaults under any loan, extension of credit,
security agreement, purchase or sales agreement, or any other agreement, in
favor of any other creditor or person that may materially affect any of
Borrower's property or Borrower's ability to repay this Note or perform
Borrower's obligations under this Note or any of the Related Documents. (d) Any
representation or statement made or furnished to Lender by Borrower or on
Borrowers behalf is false or misleading in any material respect either now or at
the time made or furnished. (e) Borrower becomes insolvent, a receiver is
appointed for any part of Borrower's property, Borrower makes an assignment for
the benefit of creditors, or any proceeding is commenced either by Borrower or
against Borrower under any bankruptcy or insolvency laws. (f) Any creditor tries
to take any of Borrower's property on or in which Lender has a lien or security
interest. This includes a garnishment of any of Borrower's accounts with Lender.
(g) Any guarantor dies or any of the other events described in this default
section occurs with respect to any guarantor of this Note. (h) A material
adverse change occurs in Borrower's financial condition or Lender believes the
prospect of payment or performance of the Indebtedness is impaired.

If any default, other than a default in payment, is curable and if Borrower has
not been given a notice of a breach of the same provision of this Note within
the preceding twelve (12) months, it may be cured (and no event of default will
have occurred) if Borrower, after receiving written notice from Lender demanding
cure of such default: (a) cures the default within fifteen (15) days; or (b) if
the cure requires more than fifteen (15) days, immediately initiates steps which
Lender deems in Lender's sole discretion to be sufficient to cure the default
and thereafter continues and completes all reasonable and necessary steps
sufficient to produce compliance as soon as reasonably practical.

LENDER'S RIGHTS. Upon default, Lender may declare the entire unpaid principal
balance on this Note and all accrued unpaid interest immediately due, without
notice, and then Borrower will pay that amount. Lender may hire or pay someone
else to help collect this Note if Borrower does not pay. Borrower also will pay
Lender that amount. This includes, subject to any limits under applicable law,
Lender's attorneys' lees and Lender's legal expenses whether or not there is a
lawsuit, including attorneys' fees and legal expenses for bankruptcy proceedings
(including efforts to modify or vacate any automatic stay or injunction),
appeals, and any anticipated post-judgment collection services. If not
prohibited by applicable law, Borrower also will pay any court costs, in
addition to all other sums provided by law. THIS NOTE HAS BEEN DELIVERED TO
LENDER AND ACCEPTED BY LENDER IN THE STATE OF OHIO. IF THERE IS A LAWSUIT,
BORROWER AGREES UPON LENDER'S REQUEST TO SUBMIT TO THE JURISDICTION OF THE
COURTS OF SUMMIT COUNTY, THE STATE OF OHIO. THIS NOTE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND
CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF OHIO.

CONFESSION OF JUDGMENT. Borrower hereby irrevocably authorizes and empowers any
attorney-at-law, including an attorney hired by Lender, to appear in any court
of record and to confess judgment against Borrower for the unpaid amount of this
Note as evidenced by an affidavit signed by an officer of Lender setting forth
the amount then due, plus attorneys' fees as provided in this Note, plus costs
of suit, and to release all errors, and waive all rights of appeal. If a copy of
this Note, verified by an affidavit, shall have been filed in the proceeding, it
will not be necessary to file the original as a warrant of attorney. Borrower
waives the right to any stay of execution and the benefit of all exemption laws
now or hereafter in effect. No single exercise of the foregoing warrant and
power to confess judgment will be deemed to exhaust the power, whether or not
any such exercise shall be held by any court to be invalid, voidable, or void;
but the power will continue undiminished and may be exercised from time to time
as Lender may elect until all amounts owing on this Note have been paid in full.
Borrower waives any conflict of interest that an attorney hired by Lender may
have in acting on behalf of Borrower in confessing judgment against Borrower
while such attorney is retained by Lender. Borrower expressly consents to such
attorney acting for Borrower in confessing judgment.

DISHONORED ITEM FEE. Borrower will pay a fee to Lender of $22.00 if Borrower
makes a payment on Borrower's loan and the check or preauthorized charge with
which Borrower pays is later dishonored.

LINE OF CREDIT. This Note evidences a revolving line of credit. Advances under
this Note may be requested orally by Borrower or by an authorized person. Lender
may, but need not, require that all oral requests be confirmed in writing. All
communications, instructions, or directions by telephone or

<PAGE>   10

09-30-1997                    PROMISSORY NOTE                            PAGE 2
LOAN NO                         (Continued)

otherwise to Lender are to be directed to Lender's office shown above. The
following party or parties are authorized to request advances under the line of
credit until Lender receives from Borrower at Lender's address shown above
written notice of revocation of their authority: JACOB POLLOCK,; RICHARD D.
POLLOCK,; JOHN J. STITZ; THE FOLLOWING PARTY OR PARTIES ARE AUTHORIZED TO
REQUEST ADVANCES ON THE LINE OF CREDIT ON BEHALF OF THE COMPANY SPECIFICALLY
LISTED NEXT TO THEIR NAMES UNTIL LENDER RECEIVES FROM BORROWER, AT LENDER'S
ADDRESS SHOWN ABOVE, WRITTEN NOTICE OF REVOCATION OF THEIR AUTHORITY; LINDA
DEPRATO, (ALL); KATHY BEAN, (ALL); STEVE MCDEVLIT, (ALL); CAROL CUTLER, (SIGNS
AND BLANKS, INC.); THOMAS GARVEY, (ALBEX ALUMINUM, INC.); AND JAYSHREE SHAH,
(RAVENS, INC.). Borrower agrees to be liable for all sums either: (a) advanced
in accordance with the instructions of an authorized person or (b) credited to
any of Borrower's accounts with Lender. The unpaid principal balance owing on
this Note at any time may be evidenced by endorsements on this Note or by
Lender's internal records, including daily computer print-outs. Lender will have
no obligation to advance funds under this Note if: (a) Borrower or any guarantor
is in default under the terms of this Note or any agreement that Borrower or any
guarantor has with Lender, including any agreement made in connection with the
signing of this Note; (b) Borrower or any guarantor ceases doing business or is
insolvent; (c) any guarantor seeks, claims or otherwise attempts to limit,
modify or revoke such guarantor's guarantee of this Note or any other loan with
Lender; (d) Borrower has applied funds provided pursuant to this Note for
purposes other than those authorized by Lender.


FEE PROVISION. Upon receipt of billing from Lender, I agree to pay a loan fee of
$n/a and a document preparation fee of $n/a.

GENERAL PROVISIONS. If any part of this Note cannot be enforced, this fact will
not affect the rest of the Note. In particular, this section means (among other
things) that Borrower does not agree or intend to pay, and Lender does not agree
or intend to contract for, charge, collect, take, reserve or receive
(collectively referred to herein as "charge or collect"), any amount in the
nature of interest or in the nature of a fee for this loan, which would in any
way or event (including demand, prepayment, or acceleration) cause Lender to
charge or collect more for this loan than the maximum Lender would be permitted
to charge or collect by federal law or the law of the State of Ohio (as
applicable). Any such excess interest or unauthorized fee shall, instead of
anything stated to the contrary, be applied first to reduce the principal
balance of this loan, and when the principal has been paid in full, be refunded
to Borrower. Lender may delay or forgo enforcing any of its rights or remedies
under this Note without losing them. Borrower and any other person who signs,
guarantees or endorses this Note, to the extent allowed by law, waive
presentment, demand for payment, protest and notice of dishonor. Upon any change
in the terms of this Note, and unless otherwise expressly stated in witting, no
party who signs this Note, whether as maker, guarantor, accommodation maker or
endorser, shall be released from liability. All such parties agree that Lender
may renew or extend (repeatedly and for any length of time) this loan, or
release any party or guarantor or collateral; or impair, fall to realize upon or
perfect Lender's security interest in the collateral; and take any other action
deemed necessary by Lender without the consent of or notice to anyone. All such
parties also agree that Lender may modify this loan without the consent of or
notice to anyone other than the party with whom the modification is made.

<PAGE>   11


09-30-1997                    PROMISSORY NOTE                           PAGE 3 
LOAN NO                          (CONTINUED)
===============================================================================

PRIOR TO SIGNING THIS NOTE, BORROWER READ AND UNDERSTOOD ALL THE PROVISIONS OF
THIS NOTE, INCLUDING THE VARIABLE INTEREST RATE PROVISIONS. BORROWER AGREES
TO THE TERMS OF THE NOTE AND ACKNOWLEDGES RECEIPT OF A COMPLETED COPY OF THE
NOTE.


NOTICE: FOR THIS NOTICE "YOU" MEANS THE BORROWER AND "HIS" MEANS LENDER.

WARNING - BY SIGNING THIS PAPER YOU GIVE UP YOUR RIGHT TO NOTICE AND COURT
TRIAL. IF YOU DO NOT PAY ON TIME A COURT JUDGMENT MAY BE TAKEN AGAINST YOU
WITHOUT YOUR PRIOR KNOWLEDGE AND THE POWERS OF A COURT CAN BE USED TO COLLECT
FROM YOU REGARDLESS OF ANY CLAIMS YOU MAY HAVE AGAINST THE CREDITOR WHETHER FOR
RETURNED GOODS, FAULTY GOODS, FAILURE ON HIS PART TO COMPLY WITH THE AGREEMENT,
OR ANY OTHER CAUSE.

BORROWER:

RVM Industries, Inc.; Ravens, Inc.; Signs and Blanks, Inc.; Albex Aluminum, Inc.

BY: 
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   JACOB POLLOCK, CHAIRMAN, CEO, TREASURER OF RVM INDUSTRIES, INC.

BY: 
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   RICHARD D. POLLOCK, PRESIDENT, COO OF RVM INDUSTRIES, INC.

BY: /s/ John J. Stitz
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   JOHN J. STITZ, VICE PRESIDENT, CFO OF RVM INDUSTRIES INC.

BY: 
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   JACOB POLLOCK, CHAIRMAN, CEO, TREASURER OF RAVENS, INC.

BY: /s/ John J. Stitz
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   JOHN J. STITZ, VICE PRESIDENT, CFO OF RAVENS, INC.

BY: 
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   JACOB POLLOCK, CEO OF SIGNS AND BLANKS, INC.

BY: 
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   RICHARD D. POLLOCK, TREASURER OF SIGNS AND BLANKS, INC.


BY: /s/ J. Stitz
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   J. STITZ, VICE PRESIDENT OF SIGNS AND BLANKS, INC.


BY: 
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   JACOB POLLOCK, CEO OF ALBEX ALUMINUM, INC.

BY: 
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   RICHARD D. POLLOCK, TREASURER OF ALBEX ALUMINUM, INC.

BY: /s/ John J. Stitz
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   JOHN J. STITZ, VICE PRESIDENT OF ALBEX ALUMINUM, INC.

===============================================================================


<PAGE>   1
                                                                  Exhibit 10(ii)

                            BUSINESS LOAN AGREEMENT
<TABLE>
=================================================================================================
<S>            <C>         <C>        <C>        <C>    <C>          <C>       <C>       <C>
  PRINCIPAL    LOAN DATE   MATURITY   LOAN NO.   CALL   COLLATERAL   ACCOUNT   OFFICER   INITIALS
$5,000,000.00  09-30-1997   09-30-2006                     UCC                    JVC
=================================================================================================
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
References in the shaded area are for Lender's use only and do not  limit the 
applicability of this document to any particular loan or item.
=================================================================================================

<S>        <C>                                          <C>        <C>
BORROWER:  RVM INDUSTRIES, INC.; RAVENS, INC.; SIGNS    Lender:    FIRSTMERIT BANK, N.A.
           AND BLANKS, INC.; ALBEX ALUMINUM, INC.                  ASSET BASED LENDING
           753 W. WATERLOO RD.                                     106 SOUTH MAIN STREET
           AKRON, OH 44314                                         AKRON, OH 44308
=================================================================================================
</TABLE>


THIS BUSINESS LOAN AGREEMENT between RVM Industries, Inc.; Ravens, Inc.;
Signs and Blanks, Inc.; Albex Aluminum, Inc. ("Borrower") and FirstMerit Bank,
N.A. ("Lender") is made and executed on the following terms and conditions.
Borrower has received prior commercial loans from Lender or has applied to
Lender for a commercial loan or loans and other financial accommodations,
including those which may be described on any exhibit or schedule attached to
this Agreement. All such loans and financial accommodations, together with all
future loans and financial accommodations from Lender to Borrower, are referred
to in this Agreement individually as the "Loan" and collectively as the
"Loans." Borrower understands and agrees that: (a) in granting, renewing, or
extending any Loan, Lender is relying upon Borrower's representations,
warranties, and agreements, as set forth in this Agreement; (b) the granting,
renewing, or extending of any Loan by Lender at all times, shall be subject to
Lender's sole judgment and discretion; and (c) all such Loans shall be and shall
remain subject to the following terms and conditions of this Agreement.

TERM. This Agreement shall be effective as of September 30, 1997, and shall
continue thereafter until all Indebtedness of Borrower to Lender has been
performed in full and the parties terminate this Agreement in writing.

DEFINITIONS. The following words shall have the following meanings when used in
this Agreement. Terms not otherwise defined in this Agreement shall have the
meanings attributed to such terms in the Uniform Commercial Code. All references
to dollar amounts shall mean amounts in lawful money of the United States of
America.

     AGREEMENT. The word "Agreement" means this Business Loan Agreement, as this
     Business Loan Agreement may be amended or modified from time to time,
     together with all exhibits and schedules attached to this Business Loan
     Agreement from time to time.

     BORROWER. The word "Borrower" means RVM Industries, Inc.; Ravens, Inc.;
     Signs and Blanks, Inc.; Albex Aluminum, Inc.. The word "Borrower" also
     includes, as applicable, all subsidiaries and affiliates of Borrower as
     provided below in the paragraph titled "Subsidiaries and Affiliates."

     CERCLA. The word "CERCLA" means the Comprehensive Environmental Response,
     Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980, as amended.

     CASH FLOW. The words "Cash Flow" mean net income after taxes, and exclusive
     of extraordinary gains and income, plus depreciation and amortization,
     adjusted for all other non-cash items affecting income.

     COLLATERAL. The word "Collateral" means and includes without limitation all
     property and assets granted as collateral security for a Loan, whether real
     or personal property, whether granted directly or indirectly, whether
     granted now or in the future, and whether granted in the form of a
     security interest, mortgage, deed of trust, assignment, pledge, chattel
     mortgage, chattel trust, factor's lien, equipment trust, conditional sale,
     trust receipt, lien, charge, lien or title retention contract, lease or
     consignment intended as a security device, or any other security or lien
     interest whatsoever, whether created by law, contract, or otherwise.

     DEBT The word "Debt" means all of Borrower's liabilities excluding
     Subordinated Debt.

     ERISA. The word "ERISA" means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act
     of 1974, as amended.

     EVENT OF DEFAULT. The words "Event of Default" mean and include without
     limitation any of the Events of Default set forth below in the section
     titled "EVENTS OF DEFAULT."

     GRANTOR. The word "Grantor" means and includes without limitation each and
     all of the persons or entities granting a Security Interest in any
     Collateral for the Indebtedness, including without limitation all
     Borrowers granting such a Security Interest.

     GUARANTOR. The word "Guarantor" means and includes without limitation each
     and all of the guarantors, sureties, and accommodation parties in
     connection with any Indebtedness.

     INDEBTEDNESS. The word "Indebtedness" means and includes without
     limitation all Loans, together with all other obligations, debts and
     liabilities of Borrower to Lender, or any one or more of them, as well as
     all claims by Lender against Borrower, or any one or more of them; whether
     now or hereafter existing, voluntary or involuntary, due or not due,
     absolute or contingent, liquidated or unliquidated; whether Borrower may be
     liable individually or jointly with others; whether Borrower may be
     obligated as a guarantor, surety, or otherwise; whether recovery upon such
     Indebtedness may be or hereafter may become barred by any statute of
     limitations; and whether such Indebtedness may be or hereafter may become
     otherwise unenforceable.

     LENDER. The word "Lender" means FirstMerit Bank, N.A., its successors and
     assigns.

     LIQUID ASSETS. The words "Liquid Assets" mean Borrower's cash on hand plus
     Borrower's readily marketable securities.

     LOAN. The word "Loan" or "Loans" means and includes without limitation any
     and all commercial loans and financial accommodations from Lender to
     Borrower, whether now or hereafter existing, and however evidenced,
     including without limitation those loans and financial accommodations
     described herein or described on any exhibit or schedule attached to this
     Agreement from time to time.

     NOTE. The word "Note" means and includes without limitation Borrower's
     promissory note or notes, if any, evidencing Borrower's Loan obligations in
     favor of Lender, as well as any substitute, replacement or refinancing note
     or notes therefor.

     PERMITTED LIENS. The words "Permitted Liens" mean: (a) liens and security
     interests securing Indebtedness owed by Borrower to Lender; (b) liens for
     taxes, assessments, or similar charges either not yet due or being
     contested in good faith; (c) liens of materialmen, mechanics, warehousemen,
     or carriers, or other like liens arising in the ordinary course of business
     and securing obligations which are not yet delinquent; (d) purchase money
     liens or purchase money security interests upon or in any property acquired
     or held by Borrower in the ordinary course of business to secure
     indebtedness outstanding on the date of this Agreement or permitted to be
     incurred under the paragraph of this Agreement titled "Indebtedness and
     Liens"; (e) liens and security interests which, as of the date of this
     Agreement, have been disclosed to and approved by the Lender in writing;
     and (f) those liens and security interests which in the aggregate
     constitute an immaterial and insignificant monetary amount with respect to
     the net value of Borrower's assets.

     RELATED DOCUMENTS. The words "Related Documents" mean and include without
     limitation all promissory notes, credit agreements, loan agreements,
     environmental agreements, guaranties, security agreements, mortgages, deeds
     of trust, and all other instruments, agreements and documents, whether now
     or hereafter existing, executed in connection with the Indebtedness.

     SECURITY AGREEMENT. The words "Security Agreement" mean and include without
     limitation any agreements, promises, covenants, arrangements, 
<PAGE>   2

09-30-1997                     BUSINESS LOAN AGREEMENT                   Page 2 
Loan No                           (Continued)

================================================================================
understandings or other agreements, whether created by law, contract, or
otherwise, evidencing, governing, representing, or creating a Security Interest.

SECURITY INTEREST. The words "Security Interest" mean and include without
limitation any type of collateral security, whether in the form of a lien,
charge, mortgage, deed of trust, assignment, pledge, chattel mortgage, chattel
trust, factor's lien, equipment trust, conditional sale, trust receipt, lien or
title retention contract, lease or consignment intended as a security device, or
any other security or lien interest whatsoever, whether created by law,
contract, or otherwise.

SARA. The word "SARA" means the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of
1986 as now or hereafter amended.

SUBORDINATED DEBT. The words "Subordinated Debt" mean indebtedness and
liabilities of Borrower which have been subordinated by written agreement to
indebtedness owed by Borrower to Lender in form and substance acceptable to
Lender.

TANGIBLE NET WORTH. The words "Tangible Net Worth" mean Borrower's total assets
excluding all intangible assets (i.e., goodwill, trademarks, patents,
copyrights, organizational expenses, and similar intangible items, but including
leaseholds and leasehold improvements) less total Debt.

WORKING CAPITAL. The words "Working Capital" mean Borrower's current assets,
excluding prepaid expenses, less Borrower's current liabilities.

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO EACH ADVANCE. Lender's obligation to make the initial
Loan Advance and each subsequent Loan Advance under this Agreement shall be
subject to the fulfillment to Lender's satisfaction of all of the conditions set
forth in this Agreement and in the Related Documents.

     LOAN DOCUMENTS. Borrower shall provide to Lender in form satisfactory to
     Lender the following documents for the Loan: (a) the Note, (b) Security
     Agreements granting to Lender security interests in the Collateral, (c)
     Financing Statements perfecting Lender's Security Interests; (d) evidence
     of insurance as required below; and (e) any other documents required under
     this Agreement or by Lender or its counsel.

     BORROWER'S, AUTHORIZATION. Borrower shall have provided in form and
     substance satisfactory to Lender properly certified resolutions, duly
     authorizing the execution and delivery of this Agreement, the Note and the
     Related Documents, and such other authorizations and other documents and
     instruments as Lender or its counsel, in their sole discretion, may
     require.

     PAYMENT OF FEES AND EXPENSES. Borrower shall have paid to Lender all fees,
     charges, and other expenses which are then due and payable as specified in
     this Agreement or any Related Document.

     REPRESENTATIONS, AND WARRANTIES. The representations and warranties set
     forth in this Agreement, in the Related Documents, and in any document or
     certificate delivered to Lender under this Agreement are true and correct.

     NO EVENT OF DEFAULT. There shall not exist at the time of any advance a
     condition which would constitute an Event of Default under this
     Agreement.

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. Borrower represents and warrants to Lender, as
of the date of this Agreement, as of the date of each disbursement of Loan
proceeds, as of the date of any renewal, extension or modification of any Loan,
and at all times any Indebtedness exists:

     ORGANIZATION. Borrower is a corporation which is duly organized, validly
     existing, and in good standing under the laws of the State of Delaware and
     is validly existing and in good standing in all states in which Borrower is
     doing business. Borrower has the full power and authority to own its
     properties and to transact the businesses in which it is presently engaged
     or presently proposes to engage. Borrower also is duly qualified as a
     foreign corporation and is in good standing in all states in which the
     failure to so qualify would have a material adverse effect on its
     businesses or financial condition.

     AUTHORIZATION. The execution, delivery, and performance of this Agreement
     and all Related Documents by Borrower, to the extent to be executed,
     delivered or performed by Borrower, have been duly authorized by all
     necessary action by Borrower; do not require the consent or approval of any
     other person, regulatory authority or governmental body; and do not
     conflict with, result in a violation of, or constitute a default under (a)
     any provision of its articles of incorporation or organization, or bylaws
     or code of regulations, or any agreement or other instrument binding upon
     Borrower or (b) any law, governmental regulation, court decree, or order
     applicable to Borrower.

     FINANCIAL INFORMATION. Each financial statement of Borrower supplied to
     Lender truly and completely disclosed Borrower's financial condition as of
     the date of the statement, and there has been no material adverse change in
     Borrower's financial condition subsequent to the date of the most recent
     financial statement supplied to Lender. Borrower has no material contingent
     obligations except as disclosed in such financial statements.

     LEGAL EFFECT. This Agreement constitutes, and any instrument or agreement
     required hereunder to be given by Borrower when delivered will constitute,
     legal, valid and binding obligations of Borrower enforceable against
     Borrower in accordance with their respective terms.

     PROPERTIES. Except as contemplated by this Agreement or as previously
     disclosed in Borrower's financial statements or in writing to Lender and as
     accepted by Lender, and except for property tax liens for taxes not
     presently due and payable, Borrower owns and has good title to all of
     Borrower's properties free and clear of all Security Interests, and has not
     executed any security documents or financing statements relating to such
     properties. All of Borrower's properties are titled in Borrower's legal
     name, and Borrower has not used, or filed a financing statement under, any
     other name for at least the last five (5) years.

     HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES; The terms "hazardous waste," "hazardous substance,"
     "disposal," "release," and "threatened release," as used in this Agreement,
     shall have the same meanings as set forth in the "CERCLA," "SARA," the
     Hazardous Materials Transportation Act, 49 U.S.C. Section 1801, et seq.,
     the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, 42 U.S.C. Section 6901, et
     seq., or other applicable state or Federal laws, rules, or regulations
     adopted pursuant to any of the foregoing. Except as disclosed to and
     acknowledged by Lender in writing, Borrower represents and warrants that:
     (a) During the period of Borrower's ownership of the properties, there has
     been no use, generation, manufacture, storage, treatment, disposal, release
     or threatened release of any hazardous waste or substance by any person on,
     under, about or from any of the properties. (b) Borrower has no knowledge
     of, or reason to believe that there has been (i) any use, generation,
     manufacture, storage, treatment, disposal, release, or threatened release
     of any hazardous waste or substance on, under, about or from the properties
     by any prior owners or occupants of any of the properties, or (ii) any
     actual or threatened litigation or claims of any kind by any person
     relating to such matters. (c) Neither Borrower nor any tenant, contractor,
     agent or other authorized user of any of the properties shall use,
     generate, manufacture, store, treat, dispose of, or release any hazardous
     waste or substance on, under, about or from any of the properties; and any
     such activity shall be conducted in compliance with all applicable federal,
     state, and local laws, regulations, and ordinances, including without
     limitation those laws, regulations and ordinances described above. Borrower
     authorizes Lender and its agents to enter upon the properties to make such
     inspections and tests as Lender may deem appropriate to determine
     compliance of the properties with this section of the Agreement. Any
     inspections or tests made by Lender shall be at Borrower's expense and for
     Lender's purposes only and shall not be construed to create any
     responsibility or liability on the part of Lender to Borrower or to any
     other person. The representations and warranties contained herein are based
     on Borrower's due diligence in investigating the properties for hazardous
     waste and hazardous substances. Borrower hereby (a) releases and waives any
     future claims against Lender for indemnity or contribution in the event
     Borrower becomes liable for cleanup or other costs under any such laws, and
     (b) agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Lender against any and all
     claims, losses, liabilities, damages, penalties, and expenses which Lender
     may directly or indirectly sustain or suffer resulting from a breach of
     this section of the Agreement or as a consequence of any use, generation,
     manufacture, storage, disposal, release or threatened release occurring
     prior to Borrower's ownership or interest in the properties, whether or not
     the same was 
<PAGE>   3

09-30-1997                    BUSINESS LOAN AGREEMENT                    Page 3 
Loan No                            (Continued)
===============================================================================

     or should have been known to Borrower. The provisions of this section of
     the Agreement, including the obligation to indemnify, shall survive the
     payment of the Indebtedness and the termination or expiration of this
     Agreement and shall not be affected by Lender's acquisition of any interest
     in any of the properties, whether by foreclosure or otherwise.

     LITIGATION AND CLAIMS. No litigation, claim, investigation, administrative
     proceeding or similar action (including those for unpaid taxes) against
     Borrower is pending or threatened, and no other event has occurred which
     may materially adversely affect Borrower's financial condition or
     properties, other than litigation, claims, or other events, if any, that
     have been disclosed to and acknowledged by Lender in writing.

     TAXES. To the best of Borrower's knowledge, all tax returns and reports of
     Borrower that are or were required to be filed, have been filed, and all
     taxes, assessments and other governmental charges have been paid in full,
     except those presently being or to be contested by Borrower in good faith
     in the ordinary course of business and for which adequate reserves have
     been provided.

     LIEN PRIORITY. Unless otherwise previously disclosed to Lender in writing,
     Borrower has not entered into or granted any Security Agreements, or
     permitted the filing or attachment of any Security Interests on or
     affecting any of the Collateral directly or indirectly securing repayment
     of Borrower's Loan and Note, that would be prior or that may in any way be
     superior to Lender's Security Interests and rights in and to such
     Collateral. 

     BINDING EFFECT. This Agreement, the Note, all Security Agreements directly
     or indirectly securing repayment of Borrower's Loan and Note and all of
     the Related Documents are binding upon Borrower as well as upon Borrower's
     successors, representatives and assigns, and are legally enforceable in
     accordance with their respective terms.

     COMMERCIAL PURPOSES. Borrower intends to use the Loan proceeds solely for
     business or commercial related purposes.

     EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS. Each employee benefit plan as to which Borrower may
     have any liability complies in all material respects with all applicable
     requirements of law and regulations, and (i) no Reportable Event nor
     Prohibited Transaction (as defined in ERISA) has occurred with respect to
     any such plan, (ii) Borrower has not withdrawn from any such plan or
     initiated steps to do so, (iii) no steps have been taken to terminate any
     such plan, and (iv) there are no unfunded liabilities other than those
     previously disclosed to Lender in writing.

     LOCATION OF BORROWER'S OFFICES AND RECORDS. Borrower's place of business,
     or Borrower's Chief executive office, if Borrower has more than one place
     of business, is located at 753 W. Waterloo Rd., Akron, OH 44314. Unless
     Borrower has designated otherwise in writing this location is also the
     office or offices where Borrower keeps its records concerning the
     Collateral.

     INFORMATION. All information heretofore or contemporaneously herewith
     furnished by Borrower to Lender for the purposes of or in connection with
     this Agreement or any transaction contemplated hereby is, and all
     information hereafter furnished by or on behalf of Borrower to Lender will
     be, true and accurate in every material respect on the date as of which
     such information is dated or certified; and none of such information is or
     will be incomplete by omitting to state any material fact necessary to make
     such information not misleading.

     SURVIVAL OF REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. Borrower understands and agrees
     that Lender, without independent investigation, is relying upon the above
     representations and warranties in extending Loan Advances to Borrower.
     Borrower further agrees that the foregoing representations and warranties
     shall be continuing in nature and shall remain in full force and effect
     until such time as Borrower's Indebtedness shall be paid in full, or until
     this Agreement shall be terminated in the manner provided above, whichever
     is the last to occur.

AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS. Borrower covenants and agrees with Lender that, while
this Agreement is in effect, Borrower will:

     LITIGATION. Promptly inform Lender in writing of (a) all material adverse
     changes in Borrower's financial condition, and (b) all existing and all
     threatened litigation, claims, investigations, administrative proceedings
     or similar actions affecting Borrower or any Guarantor which could
     materially affect the financial condition of Borrower or the financial
     condition of any Guarantor.

     FINANCIAL RECORDS. Maintain its books and records in accordance with
     generally accepted accounting principles, applied on a consistent basis,
     and permit Lender to examine and audit Borrower's books and records at all
     reasonable times.

     FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. Furnish Lender with, as soon as available, but in no
     event later than ninety (90) days after the end of each fiscal year,
     Borrower's balance sheet and income statement for the year ended, audited
     by a certified public accountant satisfactory to Lender, and, as soon as   
     available, but in no event later than thirty (30) days after the end
     of  each month, Borrower's balance sheet and profit and loss statement for
     the period ended, prepared and certified as correct to the best knowledge
     and belief by Borrower's chief financial officer or other officer or
     person acceptable to Lender. All financial reports required to be provided
     under this Agreement shall be prepared in accordance with generally
     accepted accounting principles, applied on a consistent basis, and
     certified by Borrower as being true and correct.

     ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. Furnish such additional information and statements,
     lists of assets and liabilities agings of receivables and payables,
     inventory schedules, budgets, forecasts, tax returns, and other reports
     with respect to Borrower's financial condition and business operations as
     Lender may request from time to time.

     FINANCIAL COVENANTS AND RATIOS. Comply with the following covenants and
     ratios:


          TANGIBLE NET WORTH. Maintain a minimum Tangible Net Worth of not less
          than $10,300,000.00, including Subordinated Debt due from Albex
          Aluminum, Inc. to Jacob Pollock and Signs and Blanks, Inc. to J.
          Pollock & Company. This covenant is tested quarterly.

          CASH FLOW REQUIREMENTS. Maintain Cash Flow at not less than the
          following level: 1.2 times the consolidated sum of current maturities 
          of long-term debt, plus dividends, plus capital expenditures not
          funded by term debt or under the Kent IRB. This covenant is to be
          tested quarterly using the accumulated total of the previous four
          quarters, except that for Albex, Inc. and Signs and Blanks, Inc., one
          quarter shall be used at September 30, 1997, two quarters at December
          31, 1997, three quarters at March 31, 1998 and four quarters,
          thereafter. Except as provided above, all computations made to
          determine compliance with the requirements contained in this
          paragraph shall be made in accordance with generally accepted
          accounting principles, applied on a consistent basis, and certified
          by Borrower as being true and correct.

          INSURANCE. Maintain fire and other risk insurance, public liability
          insurance, and such other insurance as Lender may require with respect
          to Borrower's properties and operations, in form, amounts, coverages
          and with insurance companies reasonably acceptable to Lender.
          Borrower, upon request of Lender, will deliver to Lender from time to
          time the policies or certificates of insurance in form satisfactory to
          Lender, including stipulations that coverages will not be cancelled or
          diminished without at least ten (10) days' prior written notice to
          Lender. Each insurance policy also shall include an endorsement
          providing that coverage in favor of Lender will not be impaired in any
          way by any act, omission or default of Borrower or any other person.
          In connection with all policies covering assets in which Lender holds
          or is offered a security interest for the Loans, Borrower will provide
          Lender with such loss payable or other endorsements as Lender may
          require.

INSURANCE REPORTS. Furnish to Lender, upon request of Lender, reports on each
existing insurance policy showing such information as Lender may reasonably
request, including without limitation the following: (a) the name of the
insurer; (b) the risks insured: (c) the amount of the policy; (d) the properties
insured; (e) the then current property values on the basis of which insurance
has been obtained, and the manner of determining those values; and (f) the
expiration date of the policy. In addition, upon request of Lender (however not
more often than annually), Borrower will have an independent appraiser
satisfactory to Lender determine, as applicable, the actual cash value or
replacement cost of any Collateral. The cost of such appraisal shall be paid by
Borrower, 
<PAGE>   4


09-30-1997                        BUSINESS LOAN AGREEMENT                Page 4 
Loan No                              (Continued)
================================================================================

     OTHER AGREEMENTS. Comply with all terms and conditions of all other
     agreements, whether now or hereafter existing, between Borrower and any
     other party and notify Lender immediately in writing of any default in
     connection with any other such agreements.

     LOAN FEES AND CHARGES. In addition to all other agreed upon fees and
     charges, pay the following: .500% on funded portion of loan secured by
     equipment; 1.000% on funded portion of loan secured by real estate,
     and .250% documentation fee on portion secured by real estate.

     LOAN PROCEEDS. Use all Loan proceeds solely for Borrower's business
     operations, unless specifically consented to the contrary by Lender in
     writing.

     TAXES, CHARGES AND LIENS. Pay and discharge when due all of its
     indebtedness and obligations, including without limitation all assessments,
     taxes, governmental charges, levies and liens, of every kind and nature,
     imposed upon Borrower or its properties, income, or profits, prior to the
     date on which penalties would attach, and all lawful claims that, if
     unpaid, might become a lien or charge upon any of Borrower's properties,
     income, or profits. Provided however, Borrower will not be required to pay
     and discharge any such assessment, tax, charge, levy, lien or claim so long
     as (a) the legality of the same shall be contested in good faith by
     appropriate proceedings, and (b) Borrower shall have established on its
     books adequate reserves with respect to such contested assessment, tax,
     charge, levy, lien, or claim in accordance with generally accepted
     accounting practices. Borrower, upon demand of Lender, will furnish to
     Lender evidence of payment of the assessments, taxes, charges, levies,
     liens and claims and will authorize the appropriate governmental official
     to deliver to Lender at any time a written statement of any assessments,
     taxes, charges, levies, liens and claims against Borrower's properties,
     income, or profits.

     PERFORMANCE. Perform and comply with all terms, conditions, and provisions
     set forth in this Agreement and in the Related Documents in a timely
     manner, and promptly notify Lender if Borrower learns of the occurrence of
     any event which constitutes an Event of Default under this Agreement or
     under any of the Related Documents.

     OPERATIONS. Maintain executive and management personnel with substantially
     the same qualifications and experience as the present executive and
     management personnel; conduct its business affairs in a reasonable and
     prudent manner and in compliance with all applicable federal, state and
     municipal laws, ordinances, rules and regulations respecting its
     properties, charters, businesses and operations, including without
     limitation, compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act and with
     all minimum funding standards and other requirements of ERISA and other
     laws applicable to Borrower's employee benefit plans.

     INSPECTION. Permit employees or agents of Lender at any reasonable time to
     inspect any and all Collateral for the Loan or Loans and Borrower's other
     properties and to examine or audit Borrower's books, accounts, and records
     and to make copies and memoranda of Borrower's books, accounts, and
     records. If Borrower now or at any time hereafter maintains any records
     (including without limitation computer generated records and computer
     software programs for the generation of such records) in the possession of
     a third party, Borrower, upon request of Lender, shall notify such party to
     permit Lender free access to such records at all reasonable times and to
     provide Lender with copies of any records it may request, all at Borrower's
     expense.

     COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATE. Unless waived in writing by Lender, provide Lender
     at least annually and at the time of each disbursement of Loan proceeds
     with a certificate executed by Borrower's chief financial officer, or other
     officer or person acceptable to Lender, certifying that the representations
     and warranties set forth in this Agreement are true and correct as of the
     date of the certificate and further certifying that, as of the date of the
     certificate, no Event of Default exists under this Agreement.

     ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND REPORTS. Borrower shall comply in all respects
     with all environmental protection federal, state and local laws, statutes,
     regulations and ordinances; not cause or permit to exist, as a result of an
     intentional or unintentional action or omission on its part or on the part
     of any third party, on property owned and/or occupied by Borrower, any
     environmental activity where damage may result to the environment, unless
     such environmental activity is pursuant to and in compliance with the
     conditions of a permit issued by the appropriate federal, state or local
     governmental authorities; shall furnish to Lender promptly and in any event
     within thirty (30) days after receipt thereof a copy of any notice,
     summons, lien, citation, directive, letter or other communication from any
     governmental agency or instrumentality concerning any intentional or
     unintentional action or omission on Borrower's part in connection with any
     environmental activity whether or not there is damage to the environment
     and/or other natural resources.

     ADDITIONAL ASSURANCES. Make, execute and deliver to Lender such promissory
     notes, mortgages, deeds of trust, security agreements, financing
     statements, instruments, documents and other agreements as Lender or its
     attorneys may reasonably request to evidence and secure the Loans and to
     perfect all Security Interests.

NEGATIVE COVENANTS. Borrower covenants and agrees with Lender that while this
Agreement is in effect, Borrower shall not, without the prior written consent of
Lender:

     INDEBTEDNESS AND LIENS. (a) Except for trade debt incurred in the normal
     course of business and indebtedness to Lender contemplated by this
     Agreement, create, incur or assume indebtedness for borrowed money,
     including capital leases, (b) except as allowed as a Permitted Lien, sell,
     transfer, mortgage, assign, pledge, lease, grant a security interest in, or
     encumber any of Borrower's assets, or (c) sell with recourse any of
     Borrower's accounts, except to Lender.

     CONTINUITY OF OPERATIONS. (a) Engage in any business activities
     substantially different than those in which Borrower is presently engaged,
     (b) cease operations, liquidate, merge, transfer, acquire or consolidate
     with any other entity, change ownership, change its name, dissolve or
     transfer or sell Collateral out of the ordinary course of business, (c) pay
     any dividends on Borrower's stock (other than dividends payable in its
     stock), provided, however that notwithstanding the foregoing, but only so
     long as no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing or would result
     from the payment of dividends, if Borrower is a "Subchapter S Corporation"
     (as defined in the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended), Borrower may
     pay cash dividends on its stock to its shareholders from time to time in
     amounts necessary to enable the shareholders to pay income taxes and make
     estimated income tax payments to satisfy their liabilities under federal
     and state law which arise solely from their status as Shareholders of a
     Subchapter S Corporation because of their ownership of shares of stock of
     Borrower, or (d) purchase or retire any of Borrower's outstanding shares or
     alter or amend Borrower's capital structure.

     LOANS, ACQUISITIONS AND GUARANTIES. (a) Loan, invest in or advance money or
     assets, (b) purchase, create or acquire any interest in any other
     enterprise or entity, or (c) incur any obligation as surety or guarantor
     other than in the ordinary course of business.

CESSATION OF ADVANCES. If Lender has made any commitment to make any Loan to
Borrower, whether under this Agreement or under any other agreement, Lender
shall have no obligation to make Loan Advances or to disburse Loan proceeds if:
(a) Borrower or any Guarantor is in default under the terms of this Agreement or
any of the Related Documents or any other agreement that Borrower or any
Guarantor has with Lender: (b) Borrower or any Guarantor becomes insolvent,
files a petition in bankruptcy or similar proceedings, or is adjudged a
bankrupt; (c) there occurs a material adverse change in Borrower's financial
condition, in the financial condition of any Guarantor, or in the value of any
Collateral securing any Loan; (d) any Guarantor seeks, claims or otherwise
attempts to limit, modify or revoke such Guarantor's guaranty of the Loan or any
other loan with Lender; or


ADVANCES. Each time Borrower requests an advance under the Note, Borrower must
provide in writing to Lender the following: (1) the amount requested, (2) the
purpose of such advance, and (3) an invoice noting the date and purchase price
of equipment (if new equipment is being purchased); an appraisal (at orderly
liquidation value - sale within six months) of the equipment if Borrower is
requesting an advance on existing

<PAGE>   5



09-30-1997                         BUSINESS LOAN AGREEMENT               Page 5
Loan No                               (Continued)
===============================================================================

equipment; or a fair market value appraisal on real estate if Borrower is
requesting an advance on real estate. Lender will advance up to 80% of the cost
of equipment (if newly purchased); 80% of the orderly liquidation value (sale
within six months) of existing equipment; and 75% of the fair market value of
real estate.

EVENTS OF DEFAULT. Each of the following shall constitute an Event of Default
under this Agreement:

     DEFAULT ON INDEBTEDNESS. Failure of Borrower to make any payment when due
     on the Loans.

     OTHER DEFAULTS. Failure of Borrower or any Grantor to comply with or to
     perform when due any other term, obligation, covenant or condition
     contained in this Agreement or in any of the Related Documents, or failure
     of Borrower to comply with or to perform any other term, obligation,
     covenant or condition contained in any other agreement between Lender and
     Borrower.

     DEFAULT IN FAVOR OF THIRD PARTIES. Should Borrower or any Grantor default
     under any loan, extension of credit, security agreement, purchase or sales
     agreement, or any other agreement, in favor of any other creditor or person
     that may materially affect any of Borrower's property or Borrower's or any
     Grantor's ability to repay the Loans or perform their respective
     obligations under this Agreement or any of the Related Documents.

     FALSE STATEMENTS. Any warranty, representation or statement made or 
     furnished to Lender by or on behalf of Borrower or any Grantor under this
     Agreement or the Related Documents is false or misleading in any material
     respect at the time made or furnished, or becomes false or misleading at
     any time thereafter.

     DEFECTIVE COLLATERALIZATION. This Agreement or any of the Related Documents
     ceases to be in full force and effect (including failure of any Security
     Agreement to create a valid and perfected Security Interest) at any time
     and for any reason. 


     INSOLVENCY. The dissolution or termination of Borrower's existence as a
     going business, the insolvency of Borrower, the appointment of a receiver
     for any part of Borrower's property, any assignment for the benefit of
     creditors, any type of creditor workout, or the commencement of any
     proceeding under any bankruptcy or insolvency laws by or against Borrower.

     CREDITOR OR FORFEITURE PROCEEDINGS. Commencement of foreclosure or
     forfeiture proceedings, whether by judicial proceeding, self-help,
     repossession or any other method, by any creditor of Borrower, any creditor
     of any Grantor against any collateral securing the Indebtedness, or by any
     governmental agency. This includes a garnishment, attachment, or levy on or
     of any of Borrower's deposit accounts with Lender. However, this Event of
     Default shall not apply if there is a good faith dispute by Borrower or
     Grantor, as the case may be, as to the validity or reasonableness of the
     claim which is the basis of the creditor or forfeiture proceeding, and if
     Borrower or Grantor gives Lender written notice of the creditor or
     forfeiture proceeding and furnishes reserves or a surety bond for the
     creditor or forfeiture proceeding satisfactory to Lender.

     EVENTS AFFECTING GUARANTOR. Any of the preceding events occurs with respect
     to any Guarantor of any of the Indebtedness or any Guarantor dies or
     becomes incompetent, or revokes or disputes the validity of, or liability
     under, any Guaranty of the Indebtedness. Lender, at its option, may, but
     shall not be required to, permit the Guarantor's estate to assume
     unconditionally the obligations arising under the guaranty in a manner
     satisfactory to Lender and in doing so cure the Event of Default.

     CHANGE IN OWNERSHIP. The Failure of Jacob Pollock, or the trustee(s) of the
     trust(s) for the benefit of Jacob Pollock's family, or the executor of 
     Jacob Pollock's estate to own at least 51% of the voting securities of the
     Borrower. 

     ADVERSE CHANGE. A material adverse change occurs in Borrower's financial
     condition, or Lender believes the prospect of payment or performance of the
     Indebtedness is impaired.

     RIGHT TO CURE. If any default other than a Default on Indebtedness, is
     curable and if Borrower or Grantor, as the case may be, has not been given
     a notice of a similar default within the preceding twelve (12) months, it
     may be cured (and no Event of Default will have occurred) if Borrower or
     Grantor, as the case may be, after receiving written notice from Lender
     demanding cure of such default: (a) cures the default within fifteen (15)
     days; or (b) if the cure requires more than fifteen (15) days, immediately
     initiates steps which Lender deems in Lender's sole discretion to be
     sufficient to cure the default and thereafter continues and completes all
     reasonable and necessary steps sufficient to produce compliance as soon as
     reasonably practical. 

EFFECT OF AN EVENT OF DEFAULT. If any Event of Default shall occur, except where
otherwise provided in this Agreement or the Related Documents, all commitments
and obligations of Lender under this Agreement or the Related Documents or any
other agreement immediately will terminate (including any obligation to make
Loan Advances or disbursements), and, at Lender's option, all Indebtedness
immediately will become due term payable, all without notice of any kind to
Borrower, except that in the case of an Event of Default of the type described
in the "Insolvency" subsection above, such acceleration shall be automatic and
not optional. In addition, Lender shall have all the rights and remedies
provided in the Related Documents or available at law, in equity, or otherwise.
Except as may be prohibited by applicable law, all of Lender's rights and
remedies shall be cumulative and may be exercised singularly or concurrently.
Election by Lender to pursue any remedy shall not exclude pursuit of any other
remedy, and an election to make expenditures or to take action to perform an
obligation of Borrower or of any Grantor shall not affect Lender's right to
declare a default and to exercise its rights and remedies.

MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS. The following miscellaneous provisions are a part of
this Agreement:

     AMENDMENTS. This Agreement, together with any Related Documents,
     constitutes the entire understanding and agreement of the parties as to the
     matters set forth in this Agreement. No alteration of or amendment to this
     Agreement shall be effective unless given in writing and signed by the
     party or parties sought to be charged or bound by the alteration or
     amendment.

     APPLICABLE LAW. THIS AGREEMENT HAS BEEN DELIVERED TO LENDER AND ACCEPTED BY
     LENDER IN THE STATE OF OHIO. IF THERE IS A LAWSUIT, BORROWER AGREES UPON
     LENDER'S REQUEST TO SUBMIT TO THE JURISDICTION OF THE COURTS OF SUMMIT
     COUNTY, THE STATE OF OHIO. LENDER AND BORROWER HEREBY WAIVE THE RIGHT TO
     ANY JURY TRIAL IN ANY ACTION, PROCEEDING, OR COUNTERCLAIM BROUGHT BY EITHER
     LENDER OR BORROWER AGAINST THE OTHER. THIS AGREEMENT SHALL BE GOVERNED BY
     AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF OHIO.

     CAPTION HEADINGS. Caption Headings in this Agreement are for convenience
     purposes only and are not to be used to interpret or define the provisions
     of this Agreement.

     MULTIPLE PARTIES; CORPORATE AUTHORITY. All obligations of Borrower under
     this Agreement shall be joint and several, and all references to Borrower
     shall mean each and every Borrower. This means that each of the persons
     signing below is responsible for ALL obligations in this Agreement.

     CONSENT TO LOAN PARTICIPATION. Borrower agrees and consents to Lender's
     sale or transfer, whether now or later, of one or more participation
     interests in the Loans to one or more purchasers, whether related or
     unrelated to Lender. Lender may provide, without any limitation whatsoever,
     to any one or more purchasers, or potential purchasers, any information or
     knowledge Lender may have about Borrower or about any other matter relating
     to the Loan, and Borrower hereby waives any rights to privacy it may have
     with respect to such matters. Borrower additionally waives any and all
     notices of sale of participation interests, as well as all notices of any
     repurchase of such participation interests. Borrower also agrees that the
     purchasers of any such participation interests will be considered as the
     absolute owners of such interests in the Loans and will have all the rights
     granted under the participation agreement or agreements governing the sale
     of such participation interests. Borrower further waives all rights of
     offset or counterclaim that it may have now or later against Lender or
     against any purchaser of such a participation interest and
<PAGE>   6


09-30-1997                      BUSINESS LOAN AGREEMENT                  Page 6 
Loan No                              (Continued)

unconditionally agrees that either Lender or such purchaser may enforce
Borrower's obligation under the Loans irrespective of the failure or insolvency
of any holder of any interest in the Loans. Borrower further agrees that the
purchaser of any such participation interests may enforce its interests
irrespective of any personal claims or defenses that Borrower may have against
Lender.

COSTS AND EXPENSES. Borrower agrees to pay upon demand all of Lender's expenses,
including without limitation attorneys' fees, incurred in connection with the
preparation, execution, enforcement, modification and collection of this
Agreement or in connection with the Loans made pursuant to this Agreement.
Lender may pay someone else to help collect the Loans and to enforce this
Agreement, and Borrower will pay that amount. This includes, subject to any
limits under applicable law, Lender's attorneys' fees and Lender's legal
expenses, whether or not there is a lawsuit, including attorneys' fees for
bankruptcy proceedings (including efforts to modify or vacate any automatic stay
or injunction), appeals, and any anticipated post-judgment collection services.
Borrower also will pay any court costs, in addition to all other sums provided
by law.

NOTICES. All notices required to be given under this Agreement shall be given in
writing, may be sent by telefacsimile, and shall be effective when actually
delivered or when deposited with a nationally recognized overnight courier or
deposited in the United States mail, first class, postage prepaid, addressed to
the party to whom the notice is to be given at the address shown above. Any
party may change its address for notices under this Agreement by giving formal
written notice to the other parties, specifying that the purpose of the notice
is to change the party's address. To the extent permitted by applicable law, if
there is more than one Borrower, notice to any Borrower will constitute notice
to all Borrowers. For notice purposes, Borrower will keep Lender informed at all
times of Borrower's current address(es).

SEVERABILITY. If a court of competent jurisdiction finds any provision of this
Agreement to be invalid or unenforceable as to any person or circumstance, such
finding shall not render that provision invalid or unenforceable as to any other
persons or circumstances. If feasible, any such offending provision shall be
deemed to be modified to be within the limits of enforceability or validity;
however, if the offending provision cannot be so modified, it shall be stricken
and all other provisions of this Agreement in all other respects shall remain
valid and enforceable. 

SUBSIDIARIES AND AFFILIATES OF BORROWER. To the extent the context of any
provisions of this Agreement makes it appropriate, including without limitation
any representation, warranty or covenant, the word "Borrower" as used herein
shall include all subsidiaries and affiliates of Borrower. Notwithstanding the
foregoing however, under no circumstances shall this Agreement be construed to
require Lender to make any Loan or other financial accommodation to any
subsidiary or affiliate of Borrower.

SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS. All covenants and agreements contained by or on behalf
of Borrower shall bind its successors and assigns and shall inure to the benefit
of Lender, its successors and assigns. Borrower shall not, however, have the
right to assign its rights under this Agreement or any interest therein, without
the prior written consent of Lender.

SURVIVAL. All warranties, representations, and covenants made by Borrower in
this Agreement or in any certificate or other instrument delivered by Borrower
to Lender under this Agreement shall be considered to have been relied upon by
Lender and will survive the making of the Loan and delivery to Lender of the
Related Documents, regardless of any investigation made by Lender or on Lender's
behalf.

TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE. Time is of the essence in the performance of this 
Agreement.

WAIVER. Lender shall not be deemed to have waived any rights under this
Agreement unless such waiver is given in writing and signed by Lender. No delay
or omission on the part of Lender in exercising any right shall operate as a
waiver of such right or any other right. A waiver by Lender of a provision of
this Agreement shall not prejudice or constitute a waiver of Lender's right
otherwise to demand strict compliance with that provision or any other provision
of this Agreement. No prior waiver by Lender, nor any course of dealing between
Lender and Borrower, or between Lender and any Grantor, shall constitute a
waiver of any of Lender's rights or of any obligations of Borrower or of any
Grantor as to any future transactions. Whenever the consent of Lender is
required under this Agreement, the granting of such consent by Lender in any
instance shall not constitute continuing consent in subsequent instances where
such consent is required, and in all cases such consent may be granted or
withheld in the sole discretion of Lender. 



<PAGE>   7

09-30-1997                BUSINESS LOAN AGREEMENT                        Page 7 
Loan No                        (Continued)
===============================================================================

BORROWER ACKNOWLEDGES HAVING READ ALL THE PROVISIONS OF THIS BUSINESS LOAN
AGREEMENT, AND BORROWER AGREES TO ITS TERMS. THIS AGREEMENT IS DATED AS OF
SEPTEMBER, 30, 1997.


BORROWER:

RVM INDUSTRIES INC; RAVENS, INC.; SIGNS AND BLANKS INC.; ALBEX ALUMINUM, INC.

BY: 
   -------------------------------------------------------------
   JACOB POLLOCK, CHAIRMAN, CEO, TREASURER OF RVM INDUSTRIES, INC.

BY: 
   -------------------------------------------------------------
   RICHARD D. POLLOCK, PRESIDENT, COO, OF RVM INDUSTRIES, INC.

BY: /s/ John J. Stitz
   -------------------------------------------------------------
   JOHN J. STITZ, VICE PRESIDENT, CFO OF RVM INDUSTRIES, INC

BY: 
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   JACOB POLLOCK, CHAIRMAN, CEO, TREASURER OF RAVENS, INC.

BY: /s/ John J. Stitz
   --------------------------------------------------------------  
   JOHN J. STITZ, VICE PRESIDENT, CFO OF RAVENS, INC.

BY: 
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   JACOB POLLOCK, CEO OF SIGNS AND BLANKS, INC.

BY: 
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   RICHARD D. POLLOCK, TREASURER OF SIGNS AND BLANKS, INC.

BY: /s/ John J. Stitz 
   ---------------------------------------------------------------
   JOHN J. STITZ, VICE PRESIDENT OF SIGNS AND BLANKS, INC.

BY: 
   ---------------------------------------------------------------
   JACOB POLLOCK, CEO OF ALBEX ALUMINUM, INC.

BY: 
   ---------------------------------------------------------------
   RICHARD D. POLLOCK, TREASURER OF ALBEX ALUMINUM, INC.

BY: /s/ John J. Stitz
   ---------------------------------------------------------------
   JOHN J. STITZ, VICE PRESIDENT OF ALBEX ALUMINUM INC.



LENDER:

FIRSTMERIT BANK, N.A.

BY: /s/ James V. Cannella
   ------------------------------------
   AUTHORIZED OFFICER


LASER PRO, Reg U S Pat & T M Off Ver. 3. 23 (c) 1997 CFl ProServices, Inc. All
rights reserved. [OH-C40 RMV2.LN]
<PAGE>   8
                                PROMISSORY NOTE
<TABLE>
====================================================================================================
<S>             <C>          <C>        <C>        <C>    <C>          <C>       <C>       <C>
PRINCIPAL       LOAN DATE    MATURITY   LOAN NO.   CALL   COLLATERAL   ACCOUNT    OFFICER   INITIALS
$5,000,000.00   09-30-1997   09-30-2006                       UCC                  JVC      /s/ JVC
======================================================================================================
</TABLE>

References in the shaded area are for Lender's use only and do not limit the
applicability of this document to any particular loan or item.
================================================================================
<TABLE>
<S>                                                       <C>
BORROWER: RVM INDUSTRIES, INC.; RAVENS, INC.; SIGNS AND   LENDER:  FIRSTMERIT BANK, N.A.
           BLANKS, INC.; ALBEX ALUMINUM, INC.                      ASSET BASED LENDING
           753 W. WATERLOO RD.                                     106 SOUTH MAIN STREET
           AKRON, OH 44314                                         AKRON, OH 44308

================================================================================================

PRINCIPAL AMOUNT: $5,000,000.00         INITIAL RATE: 8.500%    DATE OF NOTE: SEPTEMBER 30, 1997
</TABLE>


PROMISE TO PAY. RVM INDUSTRIES, INC.; RAVENS, INC.; SIGNS AND BLANKS, INC.;
ALBEX ALUMINUM, INC. ("BORROWER") PROMISES TO PAY TO FIRSTMERIT BANK, N.A.
("LENDER"), OR ORDER, IN LAWFUL MONEY OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, THE
PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF FIVE MILLION & 00/100 DOLLARS, ($5,000,000.00) OR SO MUCH AS
MAY BE OUTSTANDING, TOGETHER WITH INTEREST ON THE UNPAID OUTSTANDING PRINCIPAL
BALANCE OF EACH ADVANCE. INTEREST SHALL BE CALCULATED FROM THE DATE OF EACH
ADVANCE UNTIL REPAYMENT OF EACH ADVANCE.

PAYMENT. BORROWER WILL PAY THIS LOAN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING PAYMENT
SCHEDULE:

     84 EQUAL MONTHLY PRINCIPAL PAYMENTS BEGINNING OCTOBER 30, 1999 WITH ALL
     SUBSEQUENT PRINCIPAL PAYMENTS DUE ON THE SAME DAY EACH MONTH AFTER THAT. IN
     ADDITION, BORROWER WILL PAY REGULAR MONTHLY PAYMENTS OF ACCRUED UNPAID
     INTEREST BEGINNING OCTOBER 31, 1997, AND ALL SUBSEQUENT INTEREST PAYMENTS
     ARE DUE ON THE SAME DAY OF EACH MONTH AFTER THAT

Interest on this Note is computed on a 365/360 simple interest basis; that is,
by applying the ratio of the annual interest rate over a year of 360 days,
multiplied by the outstanding principal balance, multiplied by the actual number
of days the principal balance is outstanding. Borrower will pay Lender at
Lender's address shown above or at such other place as Lender may designate in
writing. Unless otherwise agreed or required by applicable law, payments will be
applied first to accrued unpaid interest, then to principal, and any remaining
amount to any unpaid collection costs and late charges.


VARIABLE INTEREST RATE. The interest rate on this Note is subject to change from
time to time based on changes in an index which is Lender's Prime Rate (the
"Index"). This is the rate Lender charges, or would charge, on 90-day unsecured
loans to the most creditworthy corporate customers. This rate may or may not be
the lowest rate available from Lender at any given time. Lender will tell
Borrower the current index rate upon Borrower's request. Borrower understands
that Lender may make loans based on other rates as well. The interest rate
change will not occur more often than each day as prime changes. THE INDEX
CURRENTLY IS 8.500% PER ANNUM. THE INTEREST RATE TO BE APPLIED TO THE UNPAID
PRINCIPAL BALANCE OF THIS NOTE WILL BE AT A RATE EQUAL TO THE INDEX, RESULTING
IN AN INITIAL RATE OF 8.500% PER ANNUM. NOTICE: Under no circumstances will the
interest rate on this Note be more than the maximum rate allowed by applicable
law.

PREPAYMENT. Borrower may pay without penalty all or a portion of the amount owed
earlier than it is due. Early payments will not, unless agreed to by Lender in
writing, relieve Borrower of Borrower's obligation to continue to make payments
of accrued unpaid interest. Rather, they will reduce the principal balance due.

LATE CHARGE. If a payment is 10 DAYS OR MORE LATE, Borrower will be charged
5.00% OF THE UNPAID PORTION OF THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED PAYMENT OR $35.00,
WHICHEVER IS GREATER.

DEFAULT. Borrower will be in default if any of the following happens: (a)
Borrower fails to make any payment when due. (b) Borrower breaks any promise
Borrower has made to Lender, or Borrower fails to comply with or to perform when
due any other term, obligation, covenant, or condition contained in this Note or
any agreement related to this Note, or in any other agreement or loan Borrower
has with Lender. (c) Borrower defaults under any loan, extension of credit,
security agreement, purchase or sales agreement, or any other agreement, in
favor of any other creditor or person that may materially affect any of
Borrower's property or Borrower's ability to repay this Note or perform
Borrower's obligations under this Note or any of the Related Documents. (d) Any
representation or statement made or furnished to Lender by Borrower or on
Borrower's behalf is false or misleading in any material respect either now or
at the time made or furnished. (e) Borrower becomes insolvent, a receiver is
appointed for any part of Borrower's property, Borrower makes an assignment for
the benefit of creditors, or any proceeding is commenced either by Borrower or
against Borrower under any bankruptcy or insolvency laws. (f) Any creditor tries
to take any of Borrower's property on or in which Lender has a lien or security
interest. This includes a garnishment of any of Borrower's accounts with Lender.
(g) Any guarantor dies or any of the other events described in this default
section occurs with respect to any guarantor of this Note. (h) A material
adverse change occurs in Borrower's financial condition or Lender believes the
prospect of payment or performance of the Indebtedness is impaired.

If any default, other than a default in payment, is curable and if Borrower has
not been given a notice of a breach of the same provision of this Note within
the preceding twelve (12) months, it may be cured (and no event of default will
have occurred) if Borrower after receiving written notice from Lender demanding
cure of such default: (a) cures the default within fifteen (15) days or (b) if
the cure requires more than fifteen (15) days, immediately initiates steps which
Lender deems in Lender's sole discretion to be sufficient to cure the default
and thereafter continues and completes all reasonable and necessary steps
sufficient to produce compliance as soon as reasonably practical.

LENDER'S RIGHTS. Upon default, Lender may declare the entire unpaid principal
balance on this Note and all accrued unpaid interest immediately due, without
notice, and then Borrower will pay that amount. Lender may hire or pay someone
else to help collect this Note if Borrower does not pay. Borrower also will pay
Lender that amount. This includes, subject to any limits under applicable law,
Lender's attorneys' fees and Lender's legal expenses whether or not there is a
lawsuit, including attorneys' fees and legal expenses for bankruptcy proceedings
(including efforts to modify or vacate any automatic stay or injunction),
appeals, and any anticipated post-judgment collection services. If not
prohibited by applicable law, Borrower also will pay any court costs, in
addition to all other sums provided by law. THIS NOTE HAS, BEEN DELIVERED TO
LENDER AND ACCEPTED BY LENDER IN THE STATE OF OHIO. IF THERE IS A LAWSUIT,
BORROWER AGREES UPON LENDER'S REQUEST TO SUBMIT TO THE JURISDICTION OF THE
COURTS OF SUMMIT COUNTY, THE STATE OF OHIO. LENDER AND BORROWER HEREBY WAIVE THE
RIGHT TO ANY JURY TRIAL IN ANY ACTION, PROCEEDING, OR COUNTERCLAIM BROUGHT BY
EITHER LENDER OR BORROWER AGAINST THE OTHER. THIS NOTE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND
CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF OHIO.

CONFESSION OF JUDGMENT. Borrower hereby irrevocably authorizes and empowers any
attorney-at-law, including an attorney hired by Lender, to appear in any court
of record and to confess judgment against Borrower for the unpaid amount of this
Note as evidenced by an affidavit signed by an officer of Lender setting forth
the amount then due, plus attorneys' fees as provided in this Note, plus costs
of suit, and to release all errors, and waive all rights of appeal. If a copy of
this Note, verified by an affidavit, shall have been filed in the proceeding, it
will not be necessary to file the original as a warrant of attorney. Borrower
waives the right to any stay of execution and the benefit of all exemption laws
now or hereafter in effect. No single exercise of the foregoing warrant and
power to confess judgment will be deemed to exhaust the power, whether or not
any such exercise shall be held by any court to be invalid, voidable, or void;
but the power will continue undiminished and may be exercised from time to time
as Lender may elect until all amounts owing on this Note have been paid in full.
Borrower waives any conflict of interest that an attorney hired by Lender may
have in acting on behalf of Borrower in confessing judgment against Borrower
while such attorney is retained by Lender. Borrower expressly consents to such
attorney acting for Borrower in confessing judgment. 


<PAGE>   9

09-30-1997                   PROMISSORY NOTE                             Page 2 
Loan No                       (Continued)
================================================================================
DISHONORED ITEM FEE. Borrower will pay a fee to Lender of $22.00 if Borrower
makes a payment on Borrower's loan and the check or preauthorized charge with
which Borrower pays is later dishonored.

LINE OF CREDIT. This Note evidences a straight line of credit. Once the total.
amount of principal has been advanced, Borrower is not entitled to further loan
advances. Advances under this Note, as well as directions for payment from
Borrower's accounts, may be requested orally or in writing by Borrower or by an
authorized person. Lender may, but need not, require that all oral requests be
confirmed in writing. The following party or parties are authorized to request
advances under the line of credit until Lender receives from Borrower at
Lender's address shown above written notice of revocation of their authority:
Jacob Pollock, Chairman, CEO, Treasurer, of RVM Industries, Inc.; Richard D.
Pollock, PresIdent, COO, of RVM Industries, Inc.; John J. Stitz, VIce President,
CFO of RVM Industries, Inc.; Jacob Pollock, Chairman, CEO, Treasurer of Ravens,
Inc.; John J. Stitz, VIce President, CFO of Ravens, Inc.; Jacob Pollock, CEO of
Signs, and Blanks, Inc.; Richard D. Pollock, Treasurer of Signs, and Blanks,
Inc.; John J. Stitz, Vice President of SIgns and Blanks, Inc.; Jacob Pollock,
CEO of Albex Aluminum, Inc.; Richard D. Pollock, Treasurer of Albex Aluminum,
Inc.; and John J. Stitz, Vice President of Albex Aluminum, Inc. Borrower agrees
to be liable for all sums either: (a) advanced in accordance with the
instructions of an authorized person or (b) credited to any of Borrower's
accounts with Lender. The unpaid principal. balance owing on this Note at any
time may be evidenced by endorsements on this Note or by Lender's internal
records, including daily computer print-outs. Lender will have no obligation to
advance funds under this Note if: (a) Borrower or any guarantor is in default
under the terms of this Note or any agreement that Borrower or any guarantor has
with Lender, including any agreement made in connection with the signing of this
Note; (b) Borrower or any guarantor ceases doing business or is insolvent; (c)
any guarantor seeks, claims or otherwise attempts to limit, modify or revoke
such guarantor's guarantee of this Note or any other loan with Lender; (d)
Borrower has applied funds provided pursuant to this Note for purposes other 
than those authorized by Lender; or                                        .

ADVANCES. Each time Borrower requests an advance under the Note, Borrower must
provide in writing to Lender the following: (1) the amount requested, (2) the
purpose of such advance, and (3) an invoice noting the date and purchase price
of equipment (if new equipment is being purchased); an appraisal (at orderly
liquidation value - sale within six months) of the equipment if Borrower is
requesting an advance on existing equipment; or a fair market value appraisal.
on real estate if Borrower is requesting an advance on real estate. Lender will
advance up to 80% of the cost of equipment (if newly purchased); 80% of the
orderly liquidation value (sale within six months) of existing equipment; and
75% of the fair market value of real estate.

GENERAL PROVISIONS. If any part of this Note cannot be enforced, this fact will
not affect the rest of the Note. In particular, this section means (among other
things) that Borrower does not agree or intend to pay, and Lender does not agree
or intend to contract for, charge, collect, take, reserve or receive
(collectively referred to herein as "charge or collect"), any amount in the
nature of interest or in the nature of a fee for this loan, which would in any
way or event (including demand, prepayment, or acceleration) cause Lender to
charge or collect more for this loan than the maximum Lender would be permitted
to charge or collect by federal law or the law of the State of Ohio (as
applicable). Any such excess interest or unauthorized fee shall, instead of
anything stated to the contrary, be applied first to reduce the principal
balance of this loan, and when the principal has been paid in full, be refunded
to Borrower. Lender may delay or forgo enforcing any of its rights or remedies
under this Note without losing them. Borrower and any other person who signs,
guarantees or endorses this Note, to the extent allowed by law, waive
presentment, demand for payment, protest and notice of dishonor. Upon any change
in the terms of this Note, and unless otherwise expressly stated in writing, no
party who signs this Note, whether as maker, guarantor, accommodation maker or
endorser, shall be released from liability. All such parties agree that Lender
may renew or extend (repeatedly and for any length of time) this loan, or
release any party or guarantor or collateral; or impair, fail to realize upon or
perfect Lender's security interest in the collateral; and take any other action
deemed necessary by Lender without the consent of or notice to anyone. All such
parties also agree that Lender may modify this loan without the consent of or
notice to anyone other than the party with whom the modification is made.


<PAGE>   10

09-30-1997                   PROMISSORY NOTE                            Page 3
Loan No                       (Continued)
===============================================================================

PRIOR TO SIGNING THIS NOTE, BORROWER READ AND UNDERSTOOD ALL THE PROVISIONS OF
THIS NOTE, INCLUDING THE VARIABLE INTEREST RATE PROVISIONS. BORROWER AGREES TO
THE TERMS OF THE NOTE AND ACKNOWLEDGES RECEIPT OF A COMPLETED COPY OF THE NOTE;

===============================================================================
NOTICE: FOR THIS NOTICE "YOU" MEANS THE BORROWER AND "HIS" MEANS LENDER.

WARNING - BY SIGNING THIS PAPER YOU GIVE UP YOUR RIGHT TO NOTICE AND COURT
TRIAL. IF YOU DO NOT PAY ON TIME, A COURT JUDGMENT MAY BE TAKEN AGAINST YOU
WITHOUT YOUR PRIOR KNOWLEDGE AND THE POWERS OF A COURT CAN BE USED TO COLLECT
FROM YOU REGARDLESS OF ANY CLAIMS YOU MAY HAVE AGAINST THE CREDITOR WHETHER FOR
RETURNED GOODS, FAULTY GOODS, FAILURE ON HIS PART TO COMPLY WITH THE AGREEMENT,
OR ANY OTHER CAUSE.
================================================================================
BORROWER:

RVM Industries, Inc.; Ravens, Inc.; Signs and Blanks, Inc.; Albex Aluminum, Inc.

By: 
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   Jacob Pollock, Chairman, CEO, Treasurer of RVM Industries, Inc.

By:
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   Richard D Pollock, President, COO of RVM Industries, Inc.

By: /s/ John J. Stitz,
   --------------------------------------------------------------
    John J Stitz, Vice President, CFO of RVM Industries Inc.

By: 
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   Jacob Pollock, Chairman, CEO, Treasurer of Ravens, Inc.

By: /s/ John J. Stitz
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   John J. Stitz, Vice President, CFO of Ravens, Inc.

By:
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   Jacob Pollock, CEO of Signs and Blanks, Inc

By: 
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   Richard D Pollock, Treasurer of Signs and Blanks, Inc.


By: /s/ John J. Stitz
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   John J. Stitz, Vice President of Signs and Blanks, Inc.


By: 
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   Jacob Pollock, CEO of Albex Aluminum, Inc.

By: 
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   Richard D. Pollock, Treasurer of Albex Aluminum, Inc.

By: /s/ John J. Stitz
   --------------------------------------------------------------
   John J. Stitz, Vice President of Albex Aluminum, Inc.

===============================================================================

Variable Rate. Line of Credit.  LASER PRO, Reg. U.S. Pat. & T.M. Off., Ver.
3.23(c) 1997 CFI ProServices, Inc. All rights reserved. [OH-D20 RMV2.LN]



<PAGE>   1
                                                                 Exhibit 10(iii)

                                 COMMERCIAL GUARANTY
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
=======================================================================================================================
<S>            <C>          <C>            <C>          <C>         <C>               <C>             <C>        <C>
PRINCIPAL      LOAN DATE     MATURITY      LOAN NO      CALL        COLLATERAL        ACCOUNT       OFFICER    INITIALS
                                                                       UCC                            JVC
                                                                         
=======================================================================================================================
</TABLE>

References in the shaded area are for Lender's use only and do not limit the
applicable of this document to any particular loan or item.
===============================================================================
<TABLE>
<S>        <C>                                                 <C>      <C>
Borrower:  RVM Industries, Inc.; Ravens, Inc.; Signs           Lender:  FirstMerit Bank, N.A.
           and Blanks, Inc.; Albex Aluminum, Inc.                       Asset Based Lending
           753 W. Waterloo Rd.                                          106 South Main Street
           Akron, OH 44314                                              Akron, OH 44308

Guarantor: Jacob Pollock
           2375 Covington Rd. #46
           Akron, OH 44313
=======================================================================================================================
</TABLE>

AMOUNT OF  GUARANTY.  The amount of this Guaranty is Two Million Five Hundred
Thousand & 00/100 Dollars ($2,500,000.00).

CONTINUING GUARANTY. For good and valuable consideration, Jacob Pollock
("Guarantor") absolutely and unconditionally guarantees and promises to pay to
FirstMerit Bank, N.A. ("Lender") or its order, in legal tender of the United
States of America, the Indebtedness, (as that term is defined below) of RVM
Industries, Inc.; Ravens, Inc.; Signs and Blanks, Inc.; Albex Aluminum, Inc.
("Borrower") to Lender on the terms and conditions set forth in this Guaranty.
The obligations of Guarantor under this Guaranty are continuing.

DEFINITIONS.  The following words shall have the following meanings when used in
this Guaranty:

     BORROWER.  The word "Borrower" means RVM Industries, Inc.; Ravens, Inc.;
     Signs and Blanks, Inc.; Albex Aluminum, Inc..

     GUARANTOR. The word "Guarantor" means Jacob Pollock

     GUARANTY. The word "Guaranty" means this Guaranty made by Guarantor for the
     benefit of Lender dated September 30, 1997.

     INDEBTEDNESS. The word "Indebtedness" is used in its most comprehensive
     sense and means and includes any and all of Borrower's liabilities,
     obligations, debts, and indebtedness to Lender, now existing or hereinafter
     incurred or created, including, without limitation, all loans, advances,
     interest, costs, debts, overdraft indebtedness, credit card indebtedness,
     lease obligations, other obligations, and liabilities of Borrower, or any
     of them, and any present or future judgments against Borrower, or any of
     them; and whether any such Indebtedness is voluntarily or involuntarily
     incurred, due or not due, absolute or contingent, liquidated or
     unliquidated, determined or undetermined; whether Borrower may be liable
     individually or jointly with others, or primarily or secondarily, or as
     guarantor or surety; whether recovery on the Indebtedness may be or may
     become barred or unenforceable against Borrower for any reason whatsoever;
     and whether the Indebtedness arises from transactions which may be voidable
     on account of infancy, insanity, ultra vires, or otherwise.

     LENDER. The word "Lender" means FirstMerit Bank, N.A., its successors and
     assigns.

     RELATED DOCUMENTS. The words "Related Documents" mean and include without
     limitation all promissory notes, credit agreements, loan agreements,
     environmental agreements, guaranties, security agreements, mortgages, deeds
     of trust, and all other instruments, agreements and documents, whether now
     or hereafter existing, executed in connection with the Indebtedness.
                                                                              
MAXIMUM LIABILITY. THE MAXIMUM LIABILITY OF GUARANTOR UNDER THIS GUARANTY SHALL
NOT EXCEED AT ANY ONE TIME $2,500,000.00 PLUS ALL COSTS AND EXPENSES OF (a)
ENFORCEMENT OF THIS GUARANTY AND (b) COLLECTION AND SALE OF ANY COLLATERAL
SECURING THIS GUARANTY.

The above limitation on liability is not a restriction on the amount of the
Indebtedness of Borrower to Lender either in the aggregate or at any one time.
If Lender presently holds one or more guaranties, or hereafter receives
additional guaranties from Guarantor, the rights of Lender under all guaranties
shall be cumulative. This Guaranty shall not (unless specifically provided below
to the contrary) affect or invalidate any such other guaranties. The liability
of Guarantor will be the aggregate liability of Guarantor under the terms of
this Guaranty and any such other unterminated guaranties.

NATURE OF GUARANTY. Guarantor's liability under this Guaranty shall be open and
continuous for so long as this Guaranty remains in force. Guarantor intends to
guarantee at all times the performance and prompt payment when due, whether at
maturity or earlier by reason of acceleration or otherwise, of all Indebtedness
within the limits set forth in the preceding section of this Guaranty.
Accordingly, no payments made upon the Indebtedness will discharge or diminish
the continuing liability of Guarantor in connection with any remaining portions
of the Indebtedness or any of the Indebtedness which subsequently arises or is
thereafter incurred or contracted.

DURATION OF GUARANTY. This Guaranty will take effect when received by Lender
without the necessity of any acceptance by Lender, or any notice to Guarantor or
to Borrower, and will continue in full force until all Indebtedness incurred or
contracted shall have been fully and finally paid and satisfied and all other
obligations of Guarantor under this Guaranty shall have been performed in full.

This Guaranty will continue to bind Guarantor for all Indebtedness incurred by
Borrower or committed by Lender, including any extensions renewals,
substitutions or modifications of the Indebtedness. This Guaranty shall bind the
estate of Guarantor as to Indebtedness created both before and after the death
or incapacity of Guarantor, regardless of Lender's actual notice of Guarantor's
death. Release of any other guarantor or termination of any other guaranty of
the Indebtedness shall not affect the liability of Guarantor under this
Guaranty. It is anticipated that fluctuations may occur in the aggregate amount
of Indebtedness covered by this Guaranty, and it is specifically acknowledged
and agreed by Guarantor that reductions in the amount of Indebtedness, even to
zero dollars ($0.00), shall not constitute a termination of this Guaranty. This
Guaranty is binding upon Guarantor and Guarantor's heirs, successors and assigns
so long as any of the guaranteed Indebtedness remains unpaid and even though 
the Indebtedness guaranteed may from time to time be zero dollars ($0.00).

GUARANTOR'S AUTHORIZATION TO LENDER. Guarantor authorizes Lender, without notice
or demand and without lessening Guarantor's liability under this Guaranty, from 
time to time: (a) to make one or more additional secured or unsecured loans to
Borrower, to lease equipment or other goods to Borrower, or otherwise to extend
additional credit to Borrower; (b) to alter, compromise, renew, extend,
accelerate, or otherwise change one or more times the time for payment or other
terms of the Indebtedness or any part of the Indebtedness, including increases
and decreases of the rate of interest on the Indebtedness; extensions may be
repeated and may be for longer than the original loan term; (c) to take and hold
security for the payment of 



<PAGE>   2

09-30-1997                         COMMERCIAL GUARANTY                   PAGE 2
LOAN NO                                (CONTINUED)
================================================================================

this Guaranty or the Indebtedness,  and exchange,  enforce, waive, subordinate,
fail or decide not to perfect,  and release any such security,  with or without
the  substitution of new collateral;  (d) to release, substitute, agree not to
sue, or deal with any one or more of Borrower's  sureties,  endorsers, or other
guarantors  on any terms or in any manner Lender may choose;  (e) to determine
how,  when and what  application  of payments  and credits  shall be made on the
Indebtedness;  (f) to apply such security and direct the order or manner of sale
thereof,  including  without  limitation, any nonjudicial sale permitted by the
terms of the controlling  security  agreement or deed of trust, as Lender in its
discretion may determine; (g) to sell, transfer, assign, or grant participations
in all or any part of the Indebtedness; and (h) to  assign  or  transfer  this
Guaranty in whole or in part.

GUARANTOR'S REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. Guarantor represents and warrants to
Lender that (a) no representations or agreements of any kind have been made to
Guarantor which would limit or qualify in any way the terms of this Guaranty;
(b) this Guaranty is executed at Borrower's request and not at the request of
Lender; (c) Guarantor has full power, right and authority to enter into this
Guaranty; (d) the provisions of this Guaranty do not conflict with or result in
a default under any agreement or other instrument binding upon Guarantor and do
not result in a violation of any law, regulation, court decree or order
applicable to Guarantor; (e) Guarantor has not and will not, without the prior
written consent of Lender, sell, lease, assign, encumber, hypothecate, transfer,
or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of Guarantor's assets, or any
interest therein; (f) upon Lender's request, Guarantor will provide to Lender
financial and credit information in form acceptable to Lender, and all such
financial information which currently has been, and all future financial
information which will be provided to Lender is and will be true and correct in
all material respects and fairly present the financial condition of Guarantor as
of the dates the financial information is provided; (g) no material adverse
change has occurred in Guarantor's financial condition since the date of the
most recent financial statements provided to Lender and no event has occurred
which may materially adversely affect Guarantor's financial condition; (h) no
litigation, claim, investigation, administrative proceeding or similar action
(including those for unpaid taxes) against Guarantor is pending or threatened;
(i) Lender has made no representation to Guarantor as to the creditworthiness of
Borrower; and (j) Guarantor has established adequate means of obtaining from
Borrower on a continuing basis information regarding Borrower's financial
condition. Guarantor agrees to keep adequately informed from such means of any
facts, events, or circumstances which might in any way affect Guarantor's risks
under this Guaranty, and Guarantor further agrees that, absent a request for
information, Lender shall have no obligation to disclose to Guarantor any
information or documents acquired by Lender in the course of its relationship
with Borrower.

GUARANTOR'S WAIVERS. Except as prohibited by applicable law, Guarantor waives
any right to require Lender (a) to continue lending money or to extend other
credit to Borrower; (b) to make any presentment, protest, demand, or notice of
any kind, including notice of any nonpayment of the Indebtedness or of any
nonpayment related to any collateral, or notice of any action or nonaction on
the part of Borrower, Lender, any surety, endorser, or other guarantor in
connection with the Indebtedness or in connection with the creation of new or
additional loans or obligations; (c) to resort for payment or to proceed
directly or at once against any person, including Borrower or any other
guarantor; (d) to proceed directly against or exhaust any collateral held by
Lender from Borrower, any other guarantor, or any other person; (e) to give
notice of the terms, time, and place of any public or private sale of personal
property security held by Lender from Borrower or to comply with any other
applicable provisions of the Uniform Commercial Code; (f) to pursue any other
remedy within Lender's power; or (g) to commit any act or omission of any kind,
or at any time, with respect to any matter whatsoever.

If now or hereafter (a) Borrower shall be or become insolvent, and (b) the
Indebtedness shall not at all times until paid be fully secured by collateral
pledged by Borrower, Guarantor hereby forever waives and relinquishes in favor
of Lender and Borrower, and their respective successors, any claim or right to
payment Guarantor may now have or hereafter have or acquire against Borrower, by
subrogation or otherwise, so that at no time shall Guarantor be or become a
"creditor" of Borrower within the meaning of 11 U.S.C. section 547(b), or any
successor provision of the Federal bankruptcy laws.

Guarantor also waives any and all rights or defenses arising by reason of (a)
any "one action" or "anti-deficiency" law or any other law which may prevent
Lender from bringing any action, including a claim for deficiency, against
Guarantor, before or after Lender's commencement or completion of any
foreclosure action, either judicially or by exercise of a power of sale; (b) any
election of remedies by Lender which destroys or otherwise adversely affects
Guarantor's subrogation rights or Guarantor's rights to proceed against Borrower
for reimbursement, including without limitation, any loss of rights Guarantor
may suffer by reason of any law limiting, qualifying, or discharging the
Indebtedness; (c) any disability or other defense of Borrower, of any other
guarantor, or of any other person, or by reason of the cessation of Borrower's
liability from any cause whatsoever, other than payment in full in legal tender,
of the Indebtedness; (d) any right to claim discharge of the Indebtedness on
the basis of unjustified impairment of any collateral for the Indebtedness; (e)
any statute of limitations, if at any time any action or suit brought by Lender
against Guarantor is commenced there is outstanding Indebtedness of Borrower to
Lender which is not barred by any applicable statute of limitations; or (f) any
defenses given to guarantors at law or in equity other than actual payment and
performance of the Indebtedness. If payment is made by Borrower, whether
voluntarily or otherwise, or by any third party, on the Indebtedness and
thereafter Lender is forced to remit the amount of that payment to Borrower's
trustee in bankruptcy or to any similar person under any federal or state
bankruptcy law or law for the relief of debtors, the Indebtedness shall be
considered unpaid for the purpose of enforcement of this Guaranty.

Guarantor further waives and agrees not to assert or claim at any time any
deductions to the amount guaranteed under this Guaranty for any claim of setoff,
counterclaim, counter demand, recoupment or similar right, whether such claim,
demand or right may be asserted by the Borrower, the Guarantor, or both.

GUARANTOR'S UNDERSTANDING WITH RESPECT TO WAIVERS. Guarantor warrants and agrees
that each of the waivers set forth above is made with Guarantor's full knowledge
of its significance and consequences and that, under the circumstances, the
waivers are reasonable and not contrary to public policy or law. If any such
waiver is determined to be contrary to any applicable law or public policy, such
waiver shall be effective only to the extent permitted by law or public policy.

SUBORDINATION OF BORROWER'S DEBTS TO GUARANTOR. Guarantor agrees that the
Indebtedness of Borrower to Lender, whether now existing or hereafter created,
shall be prior to any claim that Guarantor may now have or hereafter acquire
against Borrower, whether or not Borrower becomes insolvent. Guarantor hereby
expressly subordinates any claim Guarantor may have against Borrower, upon any
account whatsoever, to any claim that Lender may now or hereafter have against
Borrower. In the event of insolvency and consequent liquidation of the assets of
Borrower, through bankruptcy, by an assignment for the benefit of creditors, by
voluntary liquidation, or otherwise, the assets of Borrower applicable to the
payment of the claims of both Lender and Guarantor shall be paid to Lender and
shall be first applied by Lender to the Indebtedness of Borrower to Lender.
Guarantor does hereby assign to Lender all claims which it may have or acquire
against Borrower or against any assignee or trustee in bankruptcy of Borrower;
provided however, that such assignment shall be effective only for the purpose
of assuring to Lender full payment in legal tender of the Indebtedness. If
Lender so requests, any notes or credit agreements now or hereafter evidencing
any debts or obligations of Borrower to Guarantor shall be marked with a legend
that the same are subject to this Guaranty and shall be delivered to Lender.
Guarantor agrees, and Lender hereby is authorized, in the name of Guarantor,
from time to time to execute and file financing statements and continuation
statements and to execute such other documents and to take such other actions as
Lender deems necessary or appropriate to perfect, preserve and enforce its
rights under this Guaranty.

CONFESSION OF JUDGMENT. Guarantor hereby irrevocably authorizes and empowers any
attorney-at-law, including an attorney hired by Lender, to appear in any court
of record and to confess judgment against Guarantor for the unpaid amount of
this Guaranty as evidenced by an affidavit signed by an officer of Lender
setting forth the amount then due, plus attorneys' fees as provided in this
Guaranty, plus costs of suit, and to release all errors, and waive all rights of
appeal. If a copy of this Guaranty, verified by an affidavit, shall have been
filed in the proceeding, it will not be necessary to file the original as a
warrant of attorney. Guarantor waives the right to any stay of execution and the
benefit of all exemption laws now or hereafter in effect.



<PAGE>   3

09-30-1997                     COMMERCIAL GUARANTY                        Page 3
Loan No                          (Continued)
===============================================================================

No single exercise of the foregoing warrant and power to confess judgment will
be deemed to exhaust the power, whether or not any such exercise shall be held
by any court to be invalid, voidable, or void; but the power will continue
undiminished and may be exercised from time to time as Lender may elect until
all amounts owing on this Guaranty have been paid in full. Guarantor waives any
conflict of interest that an attorney hired by Lender may have in acting on
behalf of Guarantor in confessing judgment against Guarantor while such attorney
is retained by Lender. Guarantor expressly consents to such attorney acting for
Guarantor in confessing judgment.

MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS. The following miscellaneous provisions are a part of
this Guaranty:

     AMENDMENTS. This Guaranty, together with any Related Documents, constitutes
     the entire understanding and agreement of the parties as to the matters set
     forth in this Guaranty. No alteration of or amendment to this Guaranty
     shall be effective unless given in writing and signed by the party or
     parties sought to be charged or bound by the alteration or amendment.

     APPLICABLE LAW. This Guaranty has been delivered to Lender and accepted by
     Lender in the State of Ohio. if there is a lawsuit, Guarantor agrees upon
     Lender's request to submit to the jurisdiction of the courts of Summit
     County, State of Ohio. This Guaranty shall be governed by and construed in
     accordance with the laws of the State of Ohio.

     ATTORNEYS' FEES; EXPENSES. Guarantor agrees to pay upon demand all of
     Lender's costs and expenses, including attorneys' fees and Lender's legal
     expenses, incurred in connection with the enforcement of this Guaranty.
     Lender may pay someone else to help enforce this Guaranty, and Guarantor
     shall pay the costs and expenses of such enforcement. Costs and expenses
     include Lender's attorneys' fees and legal expenses whether or not there is
     a lawsuit, including attorneys' fees and legal expenses for bankruptcy
     proceedings (and including efforts to modify or vacate any automatic stay
     or injunction), appeals, and any anticipated post-judgment collection
     services. Guarantor also shall pay all court costs and such additional fees
     as may be directed by the court.

     NOTICES. All notices required to be given by either party to the other
     under this Guaranty shall be in writing, may be sent by telefacsimile, and,
     except for revocation notices by Guarantor, shall be effective when
     actually delivered or when deposited with a nationally recognized overnight
     courier, or when deposited in the United States mail, first class postage
     prepaid, addressed to the party to whom the notice is to be given at the
     address shown above or to such other addresses as either party may
     designate to the other in writing. If there is more than one Guarantor,
     notice to any Guarantor will constitute notice to all Guarantors. For
     notice purposes, Guarantor agrees to keep Lender informed at all times of
     Guarantor's current address.

     INTERPRETATION. In all cases where there is more than one Borrower or
     Guarantor, then all words used in this Guaranty in the singular shall be
     deemed to have been used in the plural where the context and construction
     so require; and where there is more than one Borrower named in this
     Guaranty or when this Guaranty is executed by more than one Guarantor, the
     words "Borrower" and "Guarantor" respectively shall mean all and any one or
     more of them. The words "Guarantor," "Borrower," and "Lender" include the
     heirs, successors, assigns, and transferees of each of them. Caption
     headings in this Guaranty are for convenience purposes only and are not to
     be used to interpret or define the provisions of this Guaranty. If a court
     of competent jurisdiction finds any provision of this Guaranty to be
     invalid or unenforceable as to any person or circumstance, such finding
     shall not render that provision invalid or unenforceable as to any other
     persons or circumstances, and all provisions of this Guaranty in all other
     respects shall remain valid and enforceable. If any one or more of Borrower
     or Guarantor are corporations or partnerships, it is not necessary for
     Lender to inquire into the powers of Borrower or Guarantor or of the
     officers, directors, partners, or agents acting or purporting to act on
     their behalf, and any Indebtedness made or created in reliance upon the
     professed exercise of such powers shall be guaranteed under this Guaranty.

     WAIVER.  Lender  shall not be deemed to have  waived any rights  under this
     Guaranty  unless such  waiver is given in writing and signed by Lender.  No
     delay or  omission  on the part of Lender  in  exercising  any right  shall
     operate as a waiver of such right or any other right. A waiver by Lender of
     a provision of this Guaranty  shall not prejudice or constitute a waiver of
     Lender's right otherwise to demand strict compliance with that provision or
     any other  provision of this Guaranty.  No prior waiver by Lender,  nor any
     course of dealing between Lender and Guarantor,  shall  constitute a waiver
     of any of Lender's  rights or of any of  Guarantor's  obligations as to any
     future transactions.  Whenever the consent of Lender is required under this
     Guaranty,  the granting of such consent by Lender in any instance shall not
     constitute continuing consent to subsequent instances where such consent is
     required  and in all cases such  consent  may be granted or withheld in the
     sole discretion of Lender.

EACH UNDERSIGNED GUARANTOR ACKNOWLEDGES HAVING READ ALL THE PROVISIONS OF THIS
GUARANTY AND AGREES TO ITS TERMS. IN ADDITION, EACH GUARANTOR UNDERSTANDS THAT
THIS GUARANTY IS EFFECTIVE UPON GUARANTOR'S EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF THIS
GUARANTY TO LENDER AND THAT THE  GUARANTY WILL CONTINUE UNTIL TERMINATED IN
THE MANNER SET FORTH IN THE SECTION TITLED "DURATION OF GUARANTY." NO FORMAL
ACCEPTANCE BY LENDER IS NECESSARY TO MAKE THIS GUARANTY EFFECTIVE. THIS GUARANTY
IS DATED SEPTEMBER 30, 1997.

===============================================================================
NOTICE: FOR THIS NOTICE "YOU" MEANS THE GUARANTOR AND "HIS" MEANS LENDER.

WARNING - BY SIGNING THIS PAPER YOU GIVE UP YOUR RIGHT TO NOTICE AND COURT
TRIAL. IF YOU DO NOT PAY ON TIME A COURT JUDGMENT MAY BE TAKEN AGAINST YOU
WITHOUT YOUR PRIOR KNOWLEDGE AND THE POWERS OF A COURT CAN BE USED TO COLLECT
FROM YOU REGARDLESS OF ANY CLAIMS YOU MAY HAVE AGAINST THE CREDITOR WHETHER FOR
RETURNED GOODS, FAULTY GOODS, FAILURE ON HIS PART TO COMPLY WITH THE AGREEMENT,
OR ANY OTHER CAUSE.
===============================================================================
GUARANTOR:

x /s/ Jacob Pollock
___________________________________________
Jacob Pollock

===============================================================================

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM FORM 10-Q
FOR THE QUARTER ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1997 AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY
REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   6-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          MAR-31-1998
<PERIOD-START>                             APR-01-1997
<PERIOD-END>                               SEP-30-1997
<CASH>                                         537,664
<SECURITIES>                                         0
<RECEIVABLES>                                7,805,816
<ALLOWANCES>                                   150,000
<INVENTORY>                                 10,592,082
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                            19,424,224
<PP&E>                                      26,925,190
<DEPRECIATION>                               6,844,473
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                              42,496,625
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                       12,545,195
<BONDS>                                     22,515,679
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                        19,368
<OTHER-SE>                                   6,828,383
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                42,496,625
<SALES>                                     39,660,285
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                            39,703,555
<CGS>                                       33,904,408
<TOTAL-COSTS>                               33,904,408
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                             3,028,629
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                21,867
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                             755,559
<INCOME-PRETAX>                              2,014,959
<INCOME-TAX>                                 1,021,782
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                            993,177
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                    (211,651)
<NET-INCOME>                                   781,526
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                      .55
<EPS-DILUTED>                                      .55
        

</TABLE>


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