MERCOM INC
10-Q, 1997-11-14
CABLE & OTHER PAY TELEVISION SERVICES
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<PAGE>
 
                                 UNITED STATES
                      SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                            WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
                                   FORM 10-Q
          
(Mark One)
(X)            QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D)
                    OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended                September 30, 1997
                               -------------------------------------------------

                                      OR

( )            TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D)
                    OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from          to
                               ---------------------
Commission file number                0-17750
                       -------------------------------

 
                                 MERCOM, INC.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            (Exact name or registrant as specified in its charter)

       Delaware                                             38-2728175
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(State or other jurisdiction of                         (I.R.S. Employer
 incorporation or organization)                         Identification No.)

                              105 Carnegie Center
                       Princeton, New Jersey 08540-6215
                       --------------------------------
                   (Address of principle executive offices)
                                  (Zip Code)

                                (609) 734-3737
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              (Registrant's telephone number including area code)

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  (Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since 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 
    --------                         

     Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes
of common stock ($1.00 par value), as of October 31, 1997.

                                    Common Stock          4,787,060 shares


This Form 10-Q consists of 14 sequentially numbered pages.
<PAGE>
 
                         MERCOM, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES


                                     INDEX

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
PART I.   FINANCIAL INFORMATION                                      PAGE NO.

<S>       <C>                                                        <C> 
Item 1.   Financial Statements
            Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets -
            September 30, 1997 and December 31, 1996                    3


            Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations -
            Quarters and Nine Months Ended September 30, 1997
            and 1996                                                    4


            Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows -
            Nine Months Ended September 30, 1997 and 1996               5

            Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements        6-8
                                        

Item 2.   Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
            Condition and Results of Operations                         9-12

PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION


Item 4.   Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders           13

Item 6.   Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K                              13

 
          SIGNATURES                                                    14
</TABLE> 
<PAGE>
 
Part 1.  Financial Information

Item 1.  Financial Statements

                         MERCOM, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                     CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
                                  (Unaudited)
                            (Dollars in Thousands)

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 

                                                                                         September 30,     December 31,
                                                                                             1997              1996
                                                                                       ----------------   --------------
<S>                                                                                    <C>                <C> 
ASSETS:

Cash & temporary cash investments                                                             $  4,013         $  3,054

Accounts receivable:
        Trade, net of reserve for doubtful accounts of $57 and $36 at
           September 30, 1997, and December 31, 1996, respectively                                 338              309
        Other                                                                                       40               60

Prepaid expenses and other                                                                         148              101

Property, plant and equipment                                                                   41,545           41,643

Less - accumulated depreciation                                                                 28,352           27,395
                                                                                       ----------------   --------------

        Net property, plant and equipment                                                       13,193           14,248

Intangible assets - net of accumulated amortization of $2,268 and $2,134
        at September 30, 1997, and December 31, 1996, respectively                               1,797            2,079
                                                                                       ----------------   --------------

        Total Assets                                                                           $19,529          $19,851
                                                                                       ================   ==============

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:

Accounts payable, trade                                                                         $1,068             $828
Accounts payable, related parties                                                                  451              784
Other liabilities                                                                                1,501            1,578
Accrued litigation costs                                                                         1,450            2,150
Debt:
    Note payable, affiliate                                                                     14,151               --
    Term credit agreement                                                                           --           17,430
                                                                                       ----------------   --------------

      Total Liabilities                                                                         18,621           22,770
                                                                                       ----------------   --------------

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:

Preferred stock, $100 par value, 150,000 shares authorized,
        none issued and outstanding at September 30, 1997, and December 31, 1996
Common stock, $1 par value, 5,000,000 shares authorized,
        4,787,060, issued and outstanding at September 30, 1997, and December 31, 1996           4,787            4,787
Additional paid-in capital                                                                      11,374           11,374
Accumulated deficit                                                                            (15,253)         (19,080)
                                                                                       ----------------   --------------

      Total Shareholders' Equity                                                                   908           (2,919)
                                                                                       ----------------   --------------

      Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity                                              $ 19,529         $ 19,851
                                                                                       ================   ==============
</TABLE> 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

                                       3
<PAGE>
 
                         MERCOM, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
                                  (Unaudited)
                 (Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 

                                                                   Quarter Ended Sept 30,          Nine Months Ended Sept 30,
                                                                   ----------------------          --------------------------

                                                                   1997             1996             1997             1996
                                                                   ----             ----             ----             ----
<S>                                                              <C>              <C>              <C>              <C> 
Sales                                                            $  4,103         $  3,958         $ 12,399         $ 11,642
                                                                 --------         --------         --------         --------

Cost and expenses                                                   2,595            2,513            7,762            7,421

Depreciation and amortization                                         709              753            2,166            2,315
                                                                 --------         --------         --------         --------

        Total operating expenses                                    3,304            3,266            9,928            9,736
                                                                 --------         --------         --------         --------

        Operating income                                              799              692            2,471            1,906
                                                                 --------         --------         --------         --------

Other (Income) Expenses:

Interest income                                                       (52)             (29)            (131)             (85)
Other expense                                                          16               10               54               10
Interest expense                                                      245              305              812              925
Gain on sale of Mercom of Florida, Inc.                            (2,571)             --            (2,571)              --
                                                                 --------         --------         --------         --------

        Total other (income) expenses, net                         (2,362)             286           (1,836)             850
                                                                 --------         --------         --------         --------

        Income before income taxes                                  3,161              406            4,307            1,056

Provision for income taxes                                            461               20              480               22
                                                                 --------         --------         --------         --------

          Net income                                             $  2,700         $    386         $  3,827         $  1,034
                                                                 ========         ========         ========         ========


Net income per average common share                              $   0.56         $   0.08         $   0.80         $   0.22
                                                                 ========         ========         ========         ========

Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding (in thousands)           4,787            4,787            4,787            4,787
                                                                 ========         ========         ========         ========
</TABLE> 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

                                       4
<PAGE>
 
                         MERCOM, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
                                  (Unaudited)
                            (Dollars in Thousands)

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 

                                                                                        Nine Months Ended Sept 30,

                                                                                          1997             1996
                                                                                          ----             ----
<S>                                                                                     <C>              <C> 

Net Cash Provided By Operating Activities                                               $  2,652         $  2,235
                                                                                        --------         --------


Cash Flows From Investing Activities
    Expansion, improvements and other                                                     (1,910)            (690)
    Proceeds from sale of Mercom of Florida, Inc.                                          3,496               --
                                                                                        --------         --------
                                                                                                          

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities                                        1,586             (690)

Cash Flows From Financing Activities
     Repayment of bank loans                                                             (17,430)          (1,125)
     Note payable, affiliate                                                              14,151               --
                                                                                        --------         --------

Net cash used in financing activities                                                     (3,279)          (1,125)
                                                                                        --------         --------

Net increase in cash & temporary cash investments                                            959              420


Cash & temporary cash investments, January 1,                                              3,054            2,033
                                                                                        --------         --------


Cash & temporary cash investments, September 30,                                        $  4,013         $  2,453
                                                                                        ========         ========

Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information
   Cash paid during the year for:
        Interest                                                                        $    916         $    944
        Taxes                                                                           $     23         $      9
</TABLE> 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

                                       5
<PAGE>
 
                         MERCOM, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
             NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                 (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)


(1)  RESPONSIBILITY FOR INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The condensed consolidated financial statements included herein have been
prepared by Mercom, Inc. (the "Company"), without audit, pursuant to the rules
and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission.  Certain information
and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles have been condensed or
omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations.  However, in the opinion of
management, such statements include all adjustments, consisting only of normal
recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of the financial
information.  The condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in
conjunction with the annual statements and notes thereto included in the
Company's 1996 Annual Report to the Securities and Exchange Commission on Form
10-K.  The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily
indicative of the results that might be expected for future interim periods or
for the full year ended December 31, 1997.

(2)  RESTRUCTURING

Prior to September 30, 1997, the Company was operated as part of C-TEC
Corporation ("C-TEC").  On September 30, 1997, C-TEC distributed 100% of the
outstanding shares of common stock of its wholly owned subsidiaries, RCN
Corporation ("RCN") and Cable Michigan, Inc. ("Cable Michigan") to holders of
record of C-TEC's Common Stock and C-TEC's Class B Common Stock as of the close
of business on September 19, 1997 in accordance with the terms of a Distribution
Agreement dated September 5, 1997 among C-TEC, RCN and Cable Michigan.  RCN
consists primarily of C-TEC's high growth, bundled residential voice, video and
Internet access operations in the Boston to Washington, D.C. corridor, its
existing New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania cable television operations, a
portion of its long distance operations and its international investment in
Megacable, S.A. de C.V.  Cable Michigan, Inc. consists of C-TEC's Michigan Cable
operations, including its 62% ownership in the Company.


(3)  DEBT

Debt consists of the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                      September 30  December 31
                                          1997         1996
                                          ----         ----
<S>                                   <C>           <C> 
 
Note Payable, Affiliate                 $14,151       $  --
Term Credit Agreement                      --          17,430  
                                        -------       -------
Total                                   $14,151       $17,430
                                        =======       =======
</TABLE>

                                       6
<PAGE>
 
                         MERCOM, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
             NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                 (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)

Under the terms of the Term Credit Agreement with its bank, the Company made
scheduled principal payments in 1997 of $437 and $438 in the first and second
quarter, respectively.  In addition, the Company was required to amortize
additional debt to the extent the Company generates excess cash flow.  The
requirement for such additional amortization at December 31, 1996, of
approximately $492, was due and paid by March 31, 1997.  In July 1997, as a
result of the Company's sale of its stock in Mercom of Florida, Inc., the
Company was required to make a principal payment of $1,912 resulting in a debt
balance to its bank of $14,151.

On September 29, 1997, Cable Michigan assumed all of the bank's interest in
the Term Credit Agreement.  Immediately after the assumption of the Term Credit
Agreement by Cable Michigan, the Note Payable was amended and restated.

The Note Payable contains the same pricing and security provisions as were
previously in place with the Term Credit Agreement.  The amendments to the Note
Payable provides for less restrictive financial covenants and the elimination of
mandatory principal repayments through December 31, 2002.  In addition, the
change of control default provision in the agreement was eliminated.

The Note Payable to Cable Michigan matures with a balloon payment on December
31, 2002.  The Note Payable contains restrictive covenants, including the
maintenance of a specified debt to cash flow ratio and an interest coverage
ratio.  At September 30, 1997, the Company was in compliance with all covenants
associated with the Note Payable.

In August 1997, the Revolving Credit Agreement, providing for revolving credit
borrowings of up to $2,000 with its bank, expired.  The Company had no
borrowings under this Agreement in 1997.

The weighted average effective interest rates for outstanding debt at September
30, 1997, and December 31, 1996, were 6.56% and 6.5%, respectively.  Interest is
paid based on LIBOR plus 1.0%.
                                        
(4) INCOME TAXES

The provision for income taxes is different from the amounts computed by
applying the U.S. statutory federal tax rate of 34% primarily due to the effects
of net operating loss carryforwards that previously had related valuation
allowances.

(5) RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

The Company had amounts due to Cable Michigan of $422 and $1 at September 30,
1997, and December 31, 1996, respectively, primarily related to management
services.  The Company entered into a new management agreement with Cable
Michigan, in January 1997, pursuant to which Cable Michigan manages the
Company's cable television systems' operations.  The management agreement was
approved by the Company's Board of Directors. Prior to January 1997, the Company
had a management agreement with C-TEC Cable Systems, Inc. to manage the
Company's cable television systems' operations.
                 

                                       7
<PAGE>
 
                         MERCOM, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
             NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                 (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)


The Company had amounts due to RCN, of $29 and $783 at September 30, 1997, and
December 31, 1996, respectively, primarily related to management and other
miscellaneous services.

On September 29, 1997, Cable Michigan assumed all of the bank's interest in the
Term Credit Agreement as discussed in Note 3 (Debt).


(6) EARNINGS PER SHARE

In March 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 128 "Earnings Per Share" ("SFAS No. 128").
SFAS No. 128 establishes standards for computing and presenting earnings per
share (EPS) and applies to entities with publicly held common stock or potential
common stock.  SFAS No. 128 is effective for financial statements issued after
December 31, 1997, earlier application is not permitted.  SFAS No. 128 requires
restatement of all prior-period EPS data presented.  The Company is currently
evaluating the impact, if any, adoption of SFAS No. 128 will have on its
financial statements.

                                       8
<PAGE>
 
Item 2.             Management's Discussion and Analysis of
                 Financial Condition and Results of Operations
                 (Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Data)


The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the attached
condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto, and with the
Company's audited financial statements and notes thereto for the year ended
December 31, 1996.  The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995
provides a "safe harbor" for forward-looking statements.  Certain information
included in this report is forward looking, such as information relating to
future capital expenditures, the effect of rate increases and the effects of
future regulation and competition.  Such forward looking information involves
important risks and uncertainties that could significantly affect expected
results in the future differently than expressed in any forward-looking
statements made by, or on behalf of, the Company.  These risks and uncertainties
include, but are not limited to, uncertainties relating to economic conditions,
government and regulatory policies, the pricing and availability of equipment,
materials, inventories and programming, technological developments and changes
in the competitive environment in which the Company operates.

Results of Operations
For the three months ended September 30, 1997, the Company had net income of
$2,700 as compared to net income of $386 for the comparable period in 1996.  The
Company's net income for the nine months ended September 30, 1997 increased by
$2,793 to $3,827 from net income of $1,034 for the comparable period in 1996.
The increases represent an improvement of $.48 and $0.58 per average common
share for the three and nine month periods, respectively.  Included in net
income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 1997 is a gain of
approximately $2,600 resulting from the Company's sale of its stock in Mercom of
Florida, Inc.

Sales for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 1997, increased
by $145 or 3.7% and $757 or 6.5%, respectively, over the comparable periods in
1996. The increases are primarily due to a basic rate increase in February 1997
adding revenue of approximately $181 and $508, to the three and nine month
periods, respectively.  An additional 891 average basic subscribers per month
during the first nine months of 1997 compared to the same period in 1996
generated approximately $65 and $200, of increased basic revenues for the three
and nine month periods, respectively.  Contributing to the increase for the nine
month period, as compared to the same period in 1996 was approximately $83 in
additional premium and advertising revenues.  These increases are partially
offset by a decrease in sales of $113 and $44 for the three and nine month
periods ended September 30, 1997, respectively, due to the sale of the Company's
stock in Mercom of Florida, Inc.
                                        
Total costs and expenses, exclusive of depreciation and amortization, for the
three and nine month periods ended September 30, 1997, increased by $82 or 3.3%
and $341 or 4.6%, respectively, when compared to the same periods in 1996. The
increases for the three and nine month periods were primarily the result of
higher programming costs that are directly related to additional customers, new
channels and higher programming rates from suppliers. In addition, increases in
salaries and benefits contributed to the increases over the same periods in
1996.  Partially offsetting the higher programming costs and salaries and
benefits is a decrease in costs and expenses of $86 and $45 for the three and
nine month periods ended September 30, 1997, respectively, due to the sale of
the Company's stock in Mercom of Florida, Inc.

                                       9
<PAGE>
 
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
                 (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)


Results of Operations, continued 
Depreciation and amortization expense for the three and nine month periods ended
September 30, 1997, decreased $44 or 5.8% and $149 or 6.4%, respectively,
compared to the same periods in 1996.  The decrease was primarily due to
approximately $3,050 of trunk and distribution equipment becoming fully
depreciated in August 1996 resulting in a reduction of approximately $34 and
$169 for the three and nine month periods and the sale of the stock of Mercom of
Florida, Inc. resulting in a reduction of approximately $40 and $33 for the
three and nine month periods. These decreases are partially offset by the
depreciation expense associated with the 1997 capital expenditures and capital
expenditures made in later periods of 1996.

Interest expense for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 1997,
decreased by $60 or 19.7% and $113 or 12.2%, respectively, as compared to the
same periods in 1996.  The decrease in the average outstanding bank debt between
the comparable periods was the primary reason for the decrease in interest
expense.  The Company's future interest expense is subject to fluctuations in
the market rate of interest, and accordingly, there is no assurance that the
Company's current level of interest expense is indicative of future trends.

Gain on sale of Mercom of Florida, Inc., for the three and nine month periods
ended September 30, 1997 of approximately $2,600 resulted from the Company's
sale of its stock in Mercom of Florida, Inc. to Adelphia Communications
Corporation.

Income tax provision for the three and nine month periods ended September 30,
1997, increased by $441 and $458, respectively, as compared to the same periods
in 1996 primarily resulting from an increase in income before taxes.  This
increase in tax expense did not fully reflect the increase in income before
taxes since net operating losses were utilized that had related valuation
allowances.

Liquidity and Capital Resources
Cash and temporary cash investments were $4,013, at September 30, 1997, as
compared to $3,054 at December 31, 1996.  The increase in cash of $959 is
primarily attributed to cash provided from operations of $2,652 and proceeds of
$3,496 from the sale of the Company's stock in Mercom of Florida, Inc.,
partially offset by capital expenditures for the nine month period of $1,910 and
a net reduction of debt of $3,279.  Mercom of Florida, Inc. generated cash flow
from operations of approximately $158 in 1996 and $100 for the first six months
of 1997, therefore, the sale of this system is not expected to have a material
adverse effect on the Company's future cash flow and liquidity.
                                        
The Company's Notes Payable to Cable Michigan at September 30, 1997, was
$14,151. The Company's revolving credit facility with its bank of $2,000 expired
in August, 1997. The Company was in compliance with all of the terms of its Note
Payable at September 30, 1997.

                                       10
<PAGE>
 
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
                 (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)


Liquidity and Capital Resources, continued
The Company expects to be able to continue to manage its costs and increase its
revenues through the offering of new products, the expansion of its territories
and when appropriate, rate increases.  In February 1997, a basic rate increase
was implemented according to the rules and regulations established by the
Federal Communications Commission (the "FCC") and is expected to provide an
additional $600 in annualized revenues based on the current level of
subscribers.

On September 29, 1997, Cable Michigan assumed all of the bank's interest in
the Term Credit Agreement.  The Note Payable to Cable Michigan matures with a
balloon payment on December 31, 2002.

The amendments made to the Note Payable provide increased borrowing capacity as
the Company continues to invest in the upgrade of its facilities.  The Note
Payable is significantly less restrictive to its liquidity and operations than
its prior structure.  For the foreseeable future, the Company believes its cash
on hand and cash expected to be generated from operations will be sufficient to
service its debt under its Note Payable, to repay amounts owed to a former
officer under the terms of a settlement agreement, and to make the capital
expenditures necessary to remain competitive.  In addition, Cable Michigan has
the credit ability to lend additional funds, up to an aggregate of $20 million,
to the Company to meet additional investment and liquidity needs.
                                        
Regulatory Matters
The Company, like other operators of cable television systems, is subject to
regulation at the federal, state and local levels.  No assurances can be given
at this time that the following matters will not have a material adverse effect
on the Company's business and results of operations in the future.  Also, no
assurance can be given as to what other future actions Congress, the FCC or
other regulatory authorities may take or the effects thereof on the cable
industry in general or the Company in particular.
                                        
Cable Television Consumer Protection and Competition Act
- --------------------------------------------------------
On October 5, 1992, Congress passed the Cable Television Consumer Protection and
Competition Act of 1992 (the "1992 Act") which regulated certain subscriber
rates and a number of other matters in the cable industry, such as mandatory
carriage of local broadcast stations and retransmission consent, and which will
increase the administrative costs of complying with such regulations.  The most
significant provision of the 1992 Act required the FCC to establish rules to
ensure that rates for basic services were reasonable for subscribers in areas
without effective competition as defined in the 1992 Act.  Few municipalities
served by the Company are subject to effective competition.

                                       11
<PAGE>
 
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
                 (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)

Regulatory Matters, continued
Telecommunications Act of 1996
- ------------------------------
In early February 1996, Congress passed and the President signed the
Telecommunications Act of 1996 (the "1996 Act").  The new law is intended to
provide a pro-competitive, de-regulatory national policy framework designed to
accelerate rapidly private sector deployment of advanced telecommunications and
information technologies and services to all Americans by opening all
telecommunications markets to competition.  The FCC has adopted regulations to
implement the requirements of the 1996 Act and the intent of Congress.  With the
passage of the 1996 Act, all cable systems' rates are deregulated as effective
competition enters the franchise area, or by March 31, 1999, whichever occurs
first.

Impact to Company
The rate regulation provisions of the 1992 Act have not had a materially adverse
effect on the Company's financial condition and results of operations through
September 30, 1997.  Certain provisions of the 1992 Act that do not relate to
rate regulation, such as the provisions relating to retransmission consent and
customer service standards, have the effect of reducing operating margins of the
Company.

Over the last several years the Company has received complaints related to its
FCC rate filings.  Although the Company believes its rates are justified
according to the rules and regulations established by the FCC, the Company
believes it has adequately reserved for any exposure related to these rate
proceedings.

                                       12
<PAGE>
 
Part II.  Other Information 

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

The Annual Meeting of Shareholders was held on October 16, 1997.  Matters
submitted to and approved by Shareholders included:

1)  The election of the following Directors to serve for a term of one year:

              Nominee
              -------

              Bruce C. Godfrey
              Clifford L. Jones
              Michael J. Mahoney
              David C. McCourt
              Raymond B. Ostroski
              Harold J. Rose, Jr.
              George C. Stephenson

2)  The ratification of the selection of Coopers & Lybrand L.L.P. as the
Company's independent auditors for the year ending December 31, 1997.

          For            Against         Abstain
          ---            -------         -------

          4,329,659      3,158           2,765



Item 6.  Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

(a).  Exhibits
      (10.10)   Assignment and Assumption Agreement dated September 29, 1997, by
                and between Cable Michigan, Inc. and Morgan Guaranty Trust
                Company of New York.

      (10.11)   Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated September 29, 1997,
                to Credit Agreement dated as of November 26, 1989 and further
                amended and restated as of August 16, 1995, by and between
                Registrant and Cable Michigan, Inc.

      (27)      Financial Data Schedule

(b).  Reports on Form 8-K

No reports on Form 8-K were filed during the third quarter of 1997.

                                       13
<PAGE>
 
SIGNATURES

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


                                        MERCOM, INC.

 
 
     DATE:  November 14, 1997            /s/ Timothy J. Stoklosa
                                         -----------------------
                                         Timothy J. Stoklosa
                                         Executive Vice President and
                                         Chief Financial Officer

                                       14

<PAGE>
 
                                                                   Exhibit 10.10

                                                                  CONFORMED COPY


                      ASSIGNMENT AND ASSUMPTION AGREEMENT



     AGREEMENT dated as of September 29, 1997 between MORGAN GUARANTY TRUST
COMPANY OF NEW YORK (the "Assignor") and CABLE MICHIGAN, INC. (the "Assignee").

     WHEREAS, this Assignment and Assumption Agreement (the "Agreement") relates
to the Term Credit Agreement dated as of November 26, 1989 and amended and
restated as of August 16, 1995 among Mercom, Inc. (the "Borrower") and the
Assignor (as the same may have been further amended from time to time prior to
the date hereof, the "Credit Agreement") and the Pledge Agreement, the
Subsidiary Guaranty and the Security Agreement (each as defined in the Credit
Agreement);

     WHEREAS, Loans made to the Borrower by the Assignor under the Credit
Agreement in the aggregate principal amount of $14,150,725 are outstanding at
the date hereof; and

     WHEREAS, the Assignor proposes to assign to the Assignee all of the rights
of the Assignor under the Credit Agreement in respect of all of its Loans
outstanding thereunder (the "Assigned Amount"), and the Assignee proposes to
accept such assignment and assume the corresponding obligations of the Assignor
under the Credit Agreement;

     WHEREAS, in connection with such assignment, the Assignor proposes also to
assign to the Assignee all of its rights under the Pledge Agreement, the
Subsidiary Guaranty and the Security Agreement (the "Security Documents",
together with the Credit Agreement, the "Loan Documents");

     NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and the mutual agreements
contained herein, the parties hereto agree as follows:

     Section 1.  Definitions.  All capitalized terms not otherwise defined
herein have the respective meanings set forth in the Credit Agreement.

     Section 2.  Assignment.  (a)   The Assignor hereby assigns and sells to the
Assignee all of the rights of the Assignor under the Credit Agreement, and the
Assignee hereby accepts such assignment from the Assignor and assumes all of the
obligations of the Assignor under the Credit Agreement.  The Assignor hereby
assigns and sells to the Assignee all of its rights under each of the Security
<PAGE>
 
Documents.  Upon the execution and delivery hereof by the Assignor and the
Assignee, the execution of the consent attached hereto by the Borrower and the
payment of the amounts specified in Section 3 required to be paid on the date
hereof (i) the Assignee shall, as of the date hereof, succeed to the rights and
be obligated to perform the obligations of the Assignor as the Bank under the
Loan Documents Agreement and (ii) and the Assignor shall be released from its
obligations under the Loan Documents to the extent such obligations have been
assumed by the Assignee; provided that the provisions of Section 8.04 of the
Credit Agreement shall continue to inure to the benefit of the Assignor.  The
assignment provided for herein shall be without recourse to the Assignor.

     (b)  The Assignor is delivering herewith to the Assignee the certificates
evidencing the Pledged Securities (as defined in the Pledge Agreement (all of
which are described on Schedule 1 hereto)), including any related stock powers.

     (c)  The Assignor will, at the sole cost and expense of, as between the
Assignor and the Assignee, the Assignee (and the Borrower will, and will cause
each of its Subsidiaries to, at the Borrower's sole cost and expense), do,
execute, acknowledge and deliver all such further acts, deeds, conveyances,
mortgages, assignments, notices of assignment and transfers as the Assignee
shall request, which may be necessary in the reasonable judgment of the
Assignee, to assure, perfect, convey, assign and transfer to the Assignee the
property and rights conveyed or assigned pursuant to the Security Documents, or
which may facilitate the performance of the terms of the Security Documents, or
the filing, registering or recording of the Security Documents.

     (d)  All costs and expenses in connection with the transfer of any security
interests under the Security Documents, including without limitation reasonable
legal fees and other reasonable costs and expenses in connection with the
granting, perfecting and maintenance of any security interests under the
Security Documents or the preparation, execution, delivery, recordation or
filing of documents and any other acts as the Assignee may reasonably request in
connection with the grant of such security interests shall be, as between the
Assignor and the Assignee, be the sole responsibility of the Assignee and, as
between the Assignee and the Borrower, be the sole responsibility of and paid by
the Borrower promptly upon demand.

     Section 3.  Release.  Morgan hereby acknowledges that all amounts payable
under the Loans made by it pursuant to the Revolving Credit Agreement dated as
of November 26, 1989 and amended and restated as of August 16, 1995 (as the same
may have been further amended from time to time prior to the date hereof)
between the Borrower and Morgan have been paid in full and hereby agrees that
references to the "Credit Agreements" in any of the Security 


                                       2
<PAGE>
 
Documents shall refer solely to the Credit Agreement (as such term is defined
herein), as the same may hereafter be amended from time to time.

     Section 4.  Payments.  As consideration for the assignment and sale
contemplated in Section 2 hereof, the Assignee shall pay to the Assignor on the
date hereof in Federal funds $14,196,860.24, representing the principal amount
of the Loans outstanding on the date hereof and interest accrued thereon to the
date hereof.

     Section 5.  Non-Reliance on Assignor; Indemnity.  The Assignor makes no
representation or warranty in connection with, and shall have no responsibility
with respect to, the solvency, financial condition or statements of the Borrower
or any other Person party to a Security Document, the validity and
enforceability of the Borrower's or any such other Person's obligations under
the Credit Agreement, any Note or any Security Document or the validity,
priority or perfection of any Lien created by the Security Documents or the
value of any property purported to be subject to any such Lien.  The Assignee
acknowledges that, as the owner of 62% of the outstanding shares of common stock
of the Borrower, it has adequate information concerning the foregoing matters
and access thereto superior to that of the Assignee and that it has,
independently and without reliance on the Assignor, and based on such documents
and information as it has deemed appropriate, made its own credit analysis and
decision to enter into this Agreement and will continue to be responsible for
making its own independent appraisal of the business, affairs and financial
condition of the Borrower.

     Section 6.  Governing Law.  This Agreement shall be governed by and
construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York.

     Section 7.  Counterparts.  This Agreement may be signed in any number of
counterparts, each of which shall be an original, with the same effect as if the
signatures thereto and hereto were upon the same instrument.

                                       3
<PAGE>
 
     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be
executed and delivered by their duly authorized officers as of the date first
above written.

                                 MORGAN GUARANTY TRUST 
                                 COMPANY OF NEW YORK


                                 By:   /s/  R. Blake Witherington
                                    ------------------------------------------
                                    Title:   Vice President


                                 CABLE MICHIGAN, INC.


                                 By:  /s/  Timothy J. Stoklosa
                                    ------------------------------------------
                                    Title:   Senior Vice President, Treasurer


     The undersigned consents to the foregoing assignment.

                                 MERCOM, INC.


                                 By:   /s/   Timothy J. Stoklosa
                                    ------------------------------------------
                                    Title:   Vice President, Treasurer


                                       4
<PAGE>
 
                                 COMMUNICATIONS AND CABLEVISION, INC.


                                 By:   /s/   Timothy J. Stoklosa
                                    ------------------------------------------
                                    Title:   Vice President, Treasurer



                                 ALLEGAN COUNTY CABLEVISION, 
                                 INC.


                                 By:  /s/   Timothy J. Stoklosa
                                    -------------------------------------------
                                    Title:   Vice President, Treasurer



                                 COLDWATER CABLEVISION, INC.



                                 By:  /s/   Timothy J. Stoklosa
                                    ------------------------------------------
                                    Title:   Vice President, Treasurer


                                       5

<PAGE>
 
                                                                   EXHIBIT 10.11
                                                                  CONFORMED COPY


- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                             TERM CREDIT AGREEMENT


                                    BETWEEN


                                 MERCOM, INC.


                                      AND


                             CABLE MICHIGAN, INC.




                         -----------------------------


                               U.S. $14,150,725


                         -----------------------------



                   Originally Dated as of November 26, 1989,

                  Amended and Restated as of August 16, 1995

                                      and

             Further Amended and Restated as of September 29, 1997


- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

<PAGE>
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS


                                                                           Page
                                                                           ----

                                   ARTICLE I

                                  DEFINITIONS

SECTION 1.01.    Definitions................................................  1
                 -----------
SECTION 1.02.    Accounting Terms and Determinations........................  8
                 -----------------------------------


                                  ARTICLE II

                                  THE CREDITS

SECTION 2.01.    Loans Outstanding..........................................  8
                 -----------------
 ............................................................................  8
SECTION 2.02.    The Note...................................................  8
                 --------
SECTION 2.03.    Maturity of Loans..........................................  9
                 -----------------
SECTION 2.04.    Interest Rates.............................................  9
                 --------------
SECTION 2.05.    Optional Prepayments....................................... 10
                 --------------------
SECTION 2.06.    General Provisions as to Payments.......................... 10
                 ---------------------------------
SECTION 2.07.    Computation of Interest.................................... 11
                 -----------------------
SECTION 2.08.    Security Documents......................................... 11
                 ------------------

                                  ARTICLE III

                                  CONDITIONS

SECTION 3.01.    Effectiveness.............................................. 11
                 -------------


                                  ARTICLE IV

                            Intentionally omitted.



                                   ARTICLE V

                        REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

SECTION 5.01.    Corporate Existence and Power.............................. 12
                 -----------------------------
SECTION 5.02.    Corporate and Governmental Authorization; No Contravention. 12
                 ----------------------------------------------------------
SECTION 5.03.    Binding Effect............................................. 12
                 --------------
 ............................................................................ 12

                                       i

<PAGE>
 
                                                                           Page
                                                                           ----

SECTION 5.04.    Approval of Regulatory Authorities......................... 12
                 ----------------------------------


                                  ARTICLE VI

                                   COVENANTS

SECTION 6.01.    Information................................................ 13
                 -----------
SECTION 6.02.    Maintenance of Property; Insurance......................... 14
                 ----------------------------------
SECTION 6.03.    Conduct of Business and Maintenance of Existence........... 14
                 ------------------------------------------------
SECTION 6.04.    Compliance with Laws; Notice of Proceedings................ 14
                 -------------------------------------------
SECTION 6.05.    Inspection of Property, Books and Records.................. 14
                 -----------------------------------------
SECTION 6.06.    Debt....................................................... 15
                 ----
SECTION 6.07.    Negative Pledge............................................ 15
                 ---------------
SECTION 6.08.    Consolidations, Mergers and Sales of Assets................ 16
                 -------------------------------------------
SECTION 6.09.    Use of Proceeds............................................ 16
                 ---------------
SECTION 6.10.    Interest Coverage Ratio.................................... 17
                 -----------------------
SECTION 6.11.    Debt to Operating Cash Flow Ratio.......................... 17
                 ---------------------------------
SECTION 6.12.    Lines of Business.......................................... 17
                 -----------------
SECTION 6.13.    Investments................................................ 17
                 -----------
SECTION 6.14.    Certain Obligations Respecting Subsidiaries................ 17
                 -------------------------------------------


                                  ARTICLE VII

                              EVENTS OF DEFAULTS

SECTION 7.01.    Events of Default.......................................... 18
                 -----------------


                                 ARTICLE VIII

                                 MISCELLANEOUS

SECTION 8.01.    Notices.................................................... 20
                 -------
SECTION 8.02.    Amendments and Waivers; Cumulative Remedies................ 21
                 -------------------------------------------
SECTION 8.03.    Successors and Assigns..................................... 21
                 ----------------------
SECTION 8.04.    Expenses; Documentary Taxes; Indemnification............... 21
                 --------------------------------------------
SECTION 8.05.    Counterparts; Integration.................................. 22
                 -------------------------
SECTION 8.06.    Headings; Table of Contents................................ 22
                 ---------------------------
SECTION 8.07.    Governing Law.............................................. 22
                 -------------

                                      ii

<PAGE>
 
                                                                            Page
                                                                            ----

SECTION 8.08.    WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL....................................... 22
                 --------------------

Exhibit A        Note

                                       iii

<PAGE>
 
                              TERM CREDIT AGREEMENT


          AGREEMENT dated as of September 29, 1997 between MERCOM, INC., a
Delaware corporation (the "Borrower"), and CABLE MICHIGAN, INC., a Pennsylvania
corporation (the "Lender").

     WHEREAS the Borrower and Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York
("Morgan") entered into a Term Credit Agreement dated as of November 26, 1989
and amended and restated as of August 16, 1995 (as the same may have been
amended prior to the date hereof, the "Original Agreement");

     WHEREAS on September 29, 1997 the Lender purchased all of Morgan's interest
in the Original Agreement and the loans made thereunder;

     WHEREAS the parties hereto wish, upon satisfaction of the conditions set
forth in Section 3.01 hereof, to amend and restate the Original Agreement as set
forth herein (such amendment and restatement, the "Amendment"; and the Original
Agreement, as in effect from time to time prior to the Effective Date (as
defined below), as amended and restated by the Amendment as of the Effective
Date and as further amended from time to time thereafter, this "Agreement".


                                   ARTICLE I

                                  DEFINITIONS

          SECTION 1.01.  Definitions.  The following terms, as used herein,
                         -----------                                       
shall have the following respective meanings:

          "ACC" means Allegan County Cablevision, Inc., a Michigan corporation,
with its successors.

          "Base Rate Loan" means a Loan which is treated as a Base Rate Loan in
accordance with the definition of Interest Period.

          "CCI" means Coldwater Cablevision, Inc., a Michigan corporation, and
its successors.

          "CCV" means Communications and Cablevision, Inc., a Michigan
corporation, and its successors.

          "Collateral" has the meaning set forth in Section 3 of the Security
Agreement.
<PAGE>
 
          "Consolidated Debt" means at any date the Debt of the Borrower and its
Consolidated Subsidiaries, determined on a consolidated basis as of such date.

          "Consolidated Subsidiary" means at any date any Subsidiary or other
entity the accounts of which would be consolidated with those of the Borrower in
its consolidated financial statements if such statements were prepared as of
such date.

          "Debt" of any Person means at any date, without duplication, (i) all
obligations of such Person for borrowed money, including, without limitation,
reimbursement obligations related to letters of credit, (ii) all obligations of
such Person evidenced by bonds, debentures, notes or other similar instruments,
(iii) all obligations of such Person to pay the deferred purchase price of
property or services, except trade accounts payable arising in the ordinary
course of business, (iv) all obligations of such Person as lessee which are
capitalized in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, (v) all
Debt of others secured by a Lien on any asset of such Person, whether or not
such Debt is assumed by such Person, and (vi) all Debt of others Guaranteed by
such Person.

          "Debt to Operating Cash Flow Ratio" means, as of any date of
determination thereof, the ratio of Consolidated Debt as of such date to
Operating Cash Flow for the four consecutive fiscal quarters most recently
completed.

          "Default" means any condition or event which constitutes an Event of
Default or which with the giving of notice or lapse of time, or both, would
unless cured or waived become an Event of Default.

          "Dollars" and the sign "$" mean lawful money of the United States of
America.

          "Domestic Business Day" means any day except a Saturday, Sunday or
other day on which commercial banks in New York City are authorized by law to
close.

          "Effective Date" means the date the Amendment becomes effective in
accordance with Section 3.01 hereof.

          "Environmental Laws" means any and all federal, state, local and
foreign statutes, laws, judicial decisions, regulations, ordinances, rules,
judgments, orders, decrees, plans, injunctions, permits, concessions, grants,
franchises, licenses, agreements and other governmental restrictions relating to
the environment, the effect of the

                                       2
<PAGE>
 
environment on human health or to emissions, discharges or releases of
pollutants, contaminants, Hazardous Substances or wastes into the environment
including, without limitation, ambient air, surface water, ground water, or
land, or otherwise relating to the manufacture, processing, distribution, use,
treatment, storage, disposal, transport or handling of pollutants, contaminants,
Hazardous Substances or wastes or the clean-up or other remediation thereof.

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

          "ERISA Group" means all members of a controlled group of corporations
and all trades or businesses (whether or not incorporated) under common control
which, together with the Borrower, are treated as a single employer under
Section 414 of the Internal Revenue Code.

          "Euro-Dollar Business Day" means any Domestic Business Day on which
commercial banks are open for international business (including dealings in
Dollar deposits) in London.

          "Euro-Dollar Loan" means each Loan outstanding hereunder other than
any Loan that is treated as a Base Rate Loan in accordance with the definition
of Interest Period.

          "Event of Default" has the meaning set forth in Article VII hereof.

          "Franchise" means a franchise, license, authorization or right by
contract or otherwise, to construct, own, operate, promote, extend and/or
otherwise exploit any cable television system operated or to be operated by the
Borrower or any Subsidiary granted by any state, county, city, town, village or
any other local, state or federal governmental authority.

          "Guarantee" by any Person means any obligation, contingent or
otherwise, of such Person directly or indirectly guaranteeing any Debt or other
obligation of any other Person and, without limiting the generality of the
foregoing, any obligation, direct or indirect, contingent or otherwise, of such
Person (i) to purchase or pay (or advance or supply funds for the purchase or
payment of) such Debt or other obligation (whether arising by virtue of
partnership arrangements, by agreement to keep-well, to purchase assets, goods,
securities or services, to take-or-pay, to maintain financial statement
conditions or otherwise) or (ii) entered into for the purpose of assuring in any
other manner the

                                       3
<PAGE>
 
obligee of such Debt or other obligation of the payment thereof or to protect
such obligee against loss in respect thereof (in whole or in part), provided
                                                                    --------
that the term Guarantee shall not include endorsements for collection or deposit
in the ordinary course of business.  The term "Guarantee" used as a verb has a
corresponding meaning.

          "Guarantors" means CCV, ACC and CCI.

          "Hazardous Substances" means any toxic, radioactive, caustic or
otherwise hazardous substance, including petroleum, its derivatives, by-products
and other hydrocarbons, or any substance having any constituent elements
displaying any of the foregoing characteristics.

          "Interest Coverage Ratio" means as of the last day of any fiscal
quarter of the Borrower, the ratio of (i) Operating Cash Flow to (ii) Interest
Expense in each case for the four consecutive fiscal quarters ending on such
date.

          "Interest Expense" means, for any period, all interest accrued on Debt
of the Borrower and its Consolidated Subsidiaries for such period.

          "Interest Income" means, for any period, all interest earned by the
Borrower or Consolidated Subsidiaries in respect of Debt to the Borrower or
Consolidated Subsidiaries, as implied or actual interest, however designated,
and including, without limitation, all preferred stock dividends.

          "Interest Period" means with respect to each Euro-Dollar Loan (i)
initially, the period commencing on the Effective Date and ending three months
thereafter and (ii) thereafter, each successive period of three months, provided
that

          (a) any Interest Period which would otherwise end on a day which is
     not a Euro-Dollar Business Day shall be extended to the next succeeding
     Euro-Dollar Business Day unless with respect to a Euro-Dollar Loan such
     Euro-Dollar Business Day falls in another calendar month, in which case
     such Interest Period shall end on the next preceding Euro-Dollar Business
     Day;

          (b) any Interest Period which begins on the last Euro-Dollar Business
     Day of the calendar month (or on a day for which there is no numerically
     corresponding day in the calendar month at the end of such Interest

                                       4
<PAGE>
 
     Period) shall, subject to clause (c) below, end on the last Euro-Dollar
     Business Day of a calendar month; and

          (c) any Interest Period which would otherwise end after the
     Termination Date shall end on such Date;

provided further, however, that if any such Interest Period shall be less than
- -------- -------                                                              
30 days, the Loan for such Interest Period shall be a Base Rate Loan; provided
                                                                      --------
further, that upon the request of the Borrower the Lender may, in its sole
- -------                                                                   
discretion, make Euro-Dollar Loans with such other Interest Periods and at such
interest rates as the Borrower and the Lender may agree.

          "Internal Revenue Code" means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended, or any successor statute.

          "Investment" means any investment in any Person, whether by means of
share purchase, capital contribution, loan, time deposit or otherwise.

          "Lien" means, with respect to any asset, any mortgage, lien, pledge,
charge, security interest or other encumbrance of any kind in respect of such
asset.  For purposes of this Agreement, the Borrower or any Subsidiary shall be
deemed to own subject to a Lien any asset which it has acquired or holds subject
to the interest of a vendor or lessor under any conditional sale agreement,
capital lease or other title retention agreement relating to such asset.

          "Loan" and "Loans" means a Base Rate Loan or a Euro-Dollar Loan, or
both, as the context may require.

          "London Interbank Offered Rate" has the meaning set forth in Section
2.05(b) hereof.

          "Material Debt" means Debt of the Borrower and/or one or more of its
Subsidiaries arising in one or more related or unrelated transactions, in the
aggregate principal or face amount exceeding $100,000.

          "Note" means the promissory note of the Borrower, substantially in the
form of Exhibit A hereto, evidencing the obligation of the Borrower to repay the
Loans.

          "Operating Cash Flow" means for any period, pretax income (or deficit,
as the case may be) of the Borrower and its Consolidated Subsidiaries for such
period, excluding (to the extent included in pretax income (or pretax deficit,
as the case may be) above) (i) Interest Expense, (ii) Interest Income, (iii)
depreciation, depletion and amortization of

                                       5
<PAGE>
 
properties and other non-cash charges, (iv) extraordinary gains on sales of
assets, (v) earnings or income of unconsolidated Subsidiaries or Persons (other
than the Borrower) who are not Subsidiaries (other than cash dividends received
by the Borrower or a Consolidated Subsidiary) and (vi) that portion of the
earnings or income of Consolidated Subsidiaries attributable to minority
interests therein for such period, all determined on a consolidated basis in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles; provided that, for
                                                          --------          
purposes of calculating Operating Cash Flow for any period, (x) any Person who
was not a Consolidated Subsidiary at the beginning of such period but was a
Consolidated Subsidiary at the end of such period shall be deemed to have been a
Consolidated Subsidiary for the entire period, and (y) any Person who was a
Consolidated Subsidiary at the beginning of such period but was not a
Consolidated Subsidiary at the end of such period shall be deemed to have not
been a Consolidated Subsidiary for the entire period.

          "PBGC" means the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation or any entity
succeeding to any or all of its functions under ERISA.

          "Person" means an individual, a corporation, a partnership, an
association, a business trust or any other entity or organization, including a
government or political subdivision or an agency or instrumentality thereof.

          "Plan" means at any time an employee pension benefit plan which is
covered by Title IV of ERISA or subject to the minimum funding standards under
Section 412 of the Internal Revenue Code and is either (i) maintained by a
member of the ERISA Group for employees of a member of the ERISA Group or (ii)
maintained pursuant to a collective bargaining agreement or any other
arrangement under which more than one employer makes contributions and to which
a member of the ERISA Group is then making or accruing an obligation to make
contributions or has within the preceding five plan years made contributions.

          "Pledge Agreement" means the Pledge Agreement among the Borrower, CCV
and Morgan originally dated as of November 26, 1989 and amended and restated
August 16, 1995, as the same may be amended, modified or supplemented from time
to time (including as of the Effective Date).

          "Prime Rate" means the rate of interest per annum publicly announced
from time to time by First Union National Bank as its prime rate.

                                       6
<PAGE>
 
          "Regulation U" means Regulation U of the Board of Governors of the
Federal Reserve System, as in effect from time to time.

          "Security Agreement" means the Security Agreement among the Borrower,
CCV, ACC, CCI and Morgan originally dated as of November 26, 1989 and amended
and restated August 16, 1995, as the same may be amended, modified or
supplemented from time to time (including as of the Effective Date).

          "Subsidiary" means any corporation or other entity of which securities
or other ownership interests having ordinary voting power to elect a majority of
the board of directors or other persons performing similar functions is at the
time directly or indirectly owned by the Borrower.

          "Subsidiary Guaranty" means the Subsidiary Guaranty of the Guarantors
originally dated of November 26, 1989 and amended and restated as of August 16,
1995, as the same may be amended, modified or supplemented from time to time
(including as of the Effective Date).

          "Temporary Cash Investment" means any Investment in (i) direct
obligations of the United States or any agency thereof, or obligations
guaranteed by the United States or any agency thereof, (ii) commercial paper
rated at least A-2 by Standard & Poor's Corporation and P-2 by Moody's Investors
Service, Inc., (iii) time deposits with, including certificates of deposit
issued by, any office located in the United States of any bank or trust company
which is organized under the laws of the United States or any state thereof and
has capital, surplus and undivided profits aggregating at least $3,000,000,000
or (iv) repurchase agreements with respect to securities described in clause (i)
above entered into with an office of a bank or trust company meeting the
criteria specified in clause (iii) above, provided in each case that such
                                          --------                       
Investment matures within one year from the date of acquisition thereof by the
Borrower or a Subsidiary.

          "Termination Date" means December 31, 2002, or, if such day is not a
Euro-Dollar Business Day, the next succeeding Euro-Dollar Business Day unless
such Euro-Dollar Business Day falls in another calendar month, in which case the
Termination Date shall be the next preceding Euro-Dollar Business Day.

          "Unfunded Liabilities" means, with respect to any Plan at any time,
the amount (if any) by which (i) the value of all benefit liabilities under such
Plan determined on a

                                       7
<PAGE>
 
plan termination basis using the assumptions prescribed by the PBGC for purposes
of Section 4044 of ERISA, exceeds (ii) the fair market value of all Plan assets
allocable to such liabilities under Title IV of ERISA (excluding any accrued but
unpaid contributions), all determined as of the then most recent valuation date
for such Plan, but only to the extent that such excess represents a potential
liability of a member of the ERISA Group to the PBGC or any other Person under
Title IV of ERISA.

          "Wholly-Owned Consolidated Subsidiary" means any Consolidated
Subsidiary all of the shares of capital stock or other ownership interests of
which (except directors' qualifying shares) are at the time directly or
indirectly owned by the Borrower.

          SECTION 1.02.  Accounting Terms and Determinations.  Unless otherwise
                         -----------------------------------                   
specified herein, all accounting terms used herein shall be interpreted, all
accounting determinations hereunder shall be made, and all financial statements
required to be delivered hereunder shall be prepared in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles as in effect from time to time, applied
on a basis consistent (except for changes concurred in by the Borrower's
independent public accountants) with the most recent audited consolidated
financial statements of the Borrower and its Consolidated Subsidiaries delivered
to the Lender.


                                   ARTICLE II

                                  THE CREDITS

          SECTION 2.01.  Loans Outstanding.  On the date hereof there are Loans
                         -----------------                                     
outstanding to the Borrower under the Agreement in the aggregate principal
amount of $14,150,725.  The credit facility evidenced by the Agreement is not
revolving in nature, and amounts repaid or prepaid prior to the Termination Date
may not be reborrowed.  On the Effective Date, the Lender purchased from Morgan
the Loans outstanding on such date.

 
          SECTION 2.02.  The Note.
                         -------- 

          (a)  The Loans shall be evidenced by a single Note payable to the
order of the Lender for it account.  Such Note shall be dated on or before the
Effective Date and shall set forth the outstanding principal amount of the

                                       8
<PAGE>
 
Loans on the Effective Date as the maximum principal amount thereof.

          (b)  The Lender shall record the date and amount of each payment of
principal made by the Borrower with respect to the Loans and, prior to any
transfer of the Note, shall endorse on the schedule forming a part thereof
appropriate notations to evidence the foregoing information with respect to each
Loan then outstanding; provided that the failure of the Lender to make any such
                       --------                                                
recordation or endorsement shall not affect the obligations of the Borrower
hereunder or under the Note.  The Lender is hereby irrevocably authorized by the
Borrower so to endorse the Note and to attach to and make a part of the Note a
continuation of any such schedule as and when required.

          SECTION 2.03.  Maturity of Loans.  Each Loan shall mature, and the
                         -----------------                                  
principal amount thereof shall be due and payable, on the Termination Date.

          SECTION 2.04.  Interest Rates.
                         -------------- 

          (a)  Each Loan that is treated as a Base Rate shall bear interest on
the outstanding principal amount thereof, for each day from the date such Loan
becomes treated as a Base Rate Loan until it becomes due or ceases to be treated
as a Base Rate Loan, at a rate per annum equal to the Prime Rate.  Such interest
shall be payable on the last day of each month.  Any overdue principal of and,
to the extent permitted by law, overdue interest on the Base Rate Loans shall
bear interest, payable on demand, for each day until paid at a rate per annum
equal to the sum of 1% plus the rate otherwise applicable to Base Rate Loans for
such day.

          (b)  Each Euro-Dollar Loan shall bear interest on the unpaid principal
amount thereof, for the Interest Period applicable thereto, at a rate per annum
equal to the sum of 1.00% plus the applicable London Interbank Offered Rate.
Such interest shall be payable for each Interest Period on the last day thereof.
Any overdue principal of and, to the extent permitted by law, overdue interest
on the Euro-Dollar Loans shall bear interest, payable on demand, for each day
until paid at a rate per annum equal to the sum of 1% plus the higher of (i) the
rate of interest applicable to such Loan and (ii) the rate applicable to Base
Rate Loans for such day.

          The "London Interbank Offered Rate" applicable to any Interest Period
means the rate per annum for three-month deposits in Dollars that appears on the
Telerate Page 3750

                                       9
<PAGE>
 
at approximately 11:00 a.m. London time two (2) Business Days prior to the
commencement of such Interest Period.  If, for any reason, such rate is not
available, then "London Interbank Offered Rate" shall mean the rate per annum at
which, as quoted to the Lender by First Union National Bank (of such other
leading bank in the City of New York selected by the Lender), deposits in
Dollars in the amount of $5,000,000 are being offered to leading banks at
approximately 11:00 a.m. London time two (2) Business Days prior to the
commencement of the applicable Interest Period for settlement in immediately
available funds by leading banks in the London interbank market for a three-
month period.

          SECTION 2.05.  Optional Prepayments.
                         -------------------- 

          (a) The Borrower may, upon at least one Domestic Business Day's notice
to the Lender, prepay the Base Rate Loans without premium or penalty in whole at
any time or from time to time in part in amounts aggregating $l,000,000 or any
multiple thereof by paying the principal amount being prepaid together with
accrued interest thereon to the date of prepayment.

          (b)  The Borrower may, upon three Euro-Dollar Days' notice, prepay the
Euro-Dollar Loans without premium or penalty in whole at any time or from time
to time in part in amounts aggregating $l,000,000 or any multiple thereof by
paying the principal amount being prepaid together with accrued interest thereon
to the date of prepayment; provided that such prepayment shall occur at the end
                           --------                                            
of the Interest Period applicable to any such Loans.

          SECTION 2.06.  General Provisions as to Payments.  The Borrower shall
                         ---------------------------------                     
make each payment of principal of, and interest on, the Loans hereunder not
later than 11:00 a.m. (New York City time) on the date when due by wire transfer
of immediately available funds to the account designated on the signature page
hereof, or to such other account as the Lender may designate from time to time
by notice to the Borrower.  Whenever any payment of principal of, or interest
on, the Base Rate Loans shall be due on a day which is not a Domestic Business
Day, the date for payment thereof shall be extended to the next succeeding
Domestic Business Day.  Whenever any payment of principal of, or interest on,
the Euro-Dollar Loans shall be due on a day which is not a Euro-Dollar Business
Day, the date for payment thereof shall be extended to the next succeeding Euro-
Dollar Business Day unless as a result thereof it would fall in the next
calendar month, in which case it shall be advanced to the next preceding Euro-
Dollar Business Day.  If the date for

                                      10
<PAGE>
 
any payment of principal is extended by operation of law or otherwise, interest
shall be payable for such extended time.

          SECTION 2.07.  Computation of Interest.  Interest based on the Prime
                         -----------------------                              
Rate shall be computed on the basis of a year of 365 days (or 366 days in a leap
year) and paid for actual days elapsed (including the first day but excluding
the last day).  All other interest shall be computed on the basis of a year of
360 days and paid for the actual number of days elapsed (including the first day
but excluding the last day).

          SECTION 2.08.  Security Documents.  The obligations of the Borrower to
                         ------------------                                     
the Lender shall continue to be entitled to the benefits of the Pledge
Agreement, the Subsidiary Guaranty and the Security Agreement.


                                  ARTICLE III

                                   CONDITIONS

          SECTION 3.01.  Effectiveness.  The Amendment shall become effective on
                         -------------                                          
the date that each of the following conditions shall have been satisfied:

          (a)  receipt of the Lender of counterparts hereof signed by each of
     the parties hereto;

          (b)  receipt by the Lender of a duly executed Note dated on or before
     the Effective Date complying with the provisions of Section 2.03 hereof;

          (c)  receipt by the Lender of payment of accrued interest through (but
     not including) the Effective Date; and

          (d)  receipt by the Lender of fully executed amendments to the Pledge
     Agreement, Security Agreement and Subsidiary Guaranty, each in form and
     substance satisfactory to the Lender in its sole discretion.


                                   ARTICLE IV

                             Intentionally omitted.

                                      11
<PAGE>
 
                                   ARTICLE V

                        REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

          The Borrower hereby represents and warrants to the Lender that:

          SECTION 5.01.  Corporate Existence and Power.  The Borrower and each
                         -----------------------------                        
Subsidiary is a corporation duly incorporated, validly existing and in good
standing under the laws of the State of its incorporation, and has all corporate
powers and all material governmental licenses, authorizations, consents and
approvals required to carry on its business as now conducted.

          SECTION 5.02.  Corporate and Governmental Authorization; No
                         --------------------------------------------
Contravention.  The execution, delivery and performance by the Borrower of this
- -------------                                                                  
Agreement, the Note, the Pledge Agreement and the Security Agreement, by CCV of
the Pledge Agreement, the Security Agreement and the Subsidiary Guaranty, by
each of ACC and CCI of the Security Agreement and the Subsidiary Guaranty are
within such Person's corporate powers, have been duly authorized by all
necessary corporate action, require no action by or in respect of, or filing
with, any governmental body, agency or official and do not contravene, or
constitute a default under, any provision of applicable law or regulation or of
the certificate of incorporation or by-laws of such Person or of any agreement,
judgment, injunction, order, decree or other instrument binding upon such Person
or result in the creation or imposition of any Lien on any asset of such Person
or any of its Subsidiaries other than in favor of the Lender as provided for in
the Pledge Agreement and the Security Agreement.

          SECTION 5.03.  Binding Effect.  This Agreement, the Pledge Agreement
                         --------------                                       
and the Security Agreement constitute valid and binding agreements of the
Borrower, the Pledge Agreement, the Subsidiary Guaranty and the Security
Agreement constitute valid and binding agreements of CCV, the Security Agreement
and the Subsidiary Guaranty constitute valid and binding agreements of each of
ACC and CCI and the Note, when executed and delivered in accordance with this
Agreement, will constitute a valid and binding obligation of the Borrower.

          SECTION 5.04.  Approval of Regulatory Authorities.  No approval or
                         ----------------------------------                 
consent of, or filing or registration with, any state or federal commission or
other federal, state or local regulatory authority is required in connection
with

                                      12
<PAGE>
 
the execution, delivery and performance by the Borrower of this Agreement, the
Note, the Pledge Agreement, the Subsidiary Guaranty and the Security Agreement.



                                  ARTICLE VI

                                   COVENANTS

          So long as any Loan is outstanding, unless compliance shall have been
waived in writing by the Lender, the Borrower agrees that:

          SECTION 6.01.  Information.  The Borrower will deliver to the Lender:
                         -----------                                           

          (a)  as soon as available and in any event within 90 days after the
     end of each fiscal year of the Borrower, a consolidated balance sheet of
     the Borrower and its Consolidated Subsidiaries as at the end of such year,
     and the related consolidated statements of operations, shareholders'
     capital deficiency or retained earnings and cash flows of the Borrower and
     its Consolidated Subsidiaries for such year, setting forth in each case in
     comparative form the figures for the preceding fiscal year, all reported on
     in a manner acceptable to the Lender by Coopers & Lybrand L.L.P. or other
     independent certified public accountants of nationally recognized standing,
     together with unaudited balance sheets and statements of the Borrower and
     its Consolidated Subsidiaries for that period;

          (b)  as soon as available and in any event within 45 days after the
     end of each of the first three quarters of each fiscal year of the
     Borrower, a consolidated balance sheet of the Borrower and its Consolidated
     Subsidiaries as at the end of such quarter and the related consolidated
     statements of operations, shareholders' capital deficiency or retained
     earnings and cash flows of the Borrower and its Consolidated Subsidiaries
     for such quarter and for the portion of the Borrower's fiscal year ended at
     the end of such quarter setting forth in each case in comparative form the
     figures for the corresponding quarter and the corresponding portion of the
     Borrower's previous fiscal year, all certified (subject to normal year-end
     adjustments) as to fairness of presentation, generally accepted accounting
     principles and consistency by the chief financial officer or the chief
     accounting officer of the Borrower;


                                      13
<PAGE>
 
          (c)  from time to time such additional information regarding the
     financial position or business of the Borrower and its Subsidiaries as the
     Lender may reasonably request.

          SECTION 6.02.  Maintenance of Property; Insurance.  (a) The Borrower
                         ----------------------------------                   
will keep, and will cause each Subsidiary to keep, all property useful and
necessary in its business in good working order and condition, ordinary wear and
tear excepted; and

          (b)  The Borrower will maintain, and will cause each Subsidiary to
maintain, (i) physical damage insurance on all real and personal property on an
all risks basis (including the perils of flood and quake), covering the repair
and replacement cost of all such property and consequential loss coverage for
business interruption and extra expense, (ii) public liability insurance
(including products/completed operations liability coverage) in an amount not
less than $1,000,000, and (iii) such other insurance coverage in such amounts
and with respect to such risks as the Lender may reasonably request.  All such
insurance shall be provided by insurers having an A.M. Best policyholders rating
of not less than B+ or such other insurers as the Lender may approve in writing.

          SECTION 6.03.  Conduct of Business and Maintenance of Existence.  The
                         ------------------------------------------------      
Borrower will continue, and will cause each Subsidiary to continue, to engage in
business of the same general type as now conducted by the Borrower and its
Subsidiaries, and will preserve, renew and keep in full force and effect, and
will cause each Subsidiary to preserve, renew and keep in full force and effect
their respective corporate existence and their respective rights, privileges and
Franchises necessary or desirable in the normal conduct of business.

          SECTION 6.04.  Compliance with Laws; Notice of Proceedings.  The
                         -------------------------------------------      
Borrower will comply, and cause each Subsidiary to comply, in all material
respects with all applicable laws, ordinances, rules, regulations, and
requirements of governmental authorities (including, without limitation,
Environmental Laws and ERISA and the rules and regulations thereunder) except
where the necessity of compliance therewith is contested in good faith by
appropriate proceedings.

          SECTION 6.05.  Inspection of Property, Books and Records.  The
                         -----------------------------------------      
Borrower will keep, and will cause each Subsidiary to keep, proper books of
record and account in which full, true and correct entries shall be made of all

                                      14
<PAGE>
 
dealings and transactions in relation to its business and activities; and will
permit, and will cause each Subsidiary to permit, representatives of the Lender
at the Lender's expense to visit and inspect any of their respective properties,
to examine and make abstracts from any of their respective books and records and
to discuss their respective affairs, finances and accounts with their respective
officers, employees and independent public accountants, all at such reasonable
times and as often as may reasonably be desired.

          SECTION 6.06.  Debt.  The Borrower will not permit any Subsidiary to
                         ----                                                 
create or allow to exist any Debt other than Debt to the Borrower and other than
capital lease obligations which shall not exceed $100,000 in the aggregate. The
Borrower will not create or allow to exist any Debt in excess of $100,000 in the
aggregate other than Debt to the Lender, whether hereunder or otherwise.

          SECTION 6.07.  Negative Pledge.  Neither the Borrower nor any
                         ---------------                               
Consolidated Subsidiary will create, assume or suffer to exist any Lien on any
asset now owned or hereafter acquired by it, except for:

          (a)  Liens existing on the date hereof securing Debt outstanding on
     the date of this Agreement (including Liens securing Debt under this
     Agreement) or Liens securing any other Debt permitted by Section 6.06;

          (b)  any Lien existing on any asset of any corporation at the time
     such corporation becomes a Consolidated Subsidiary and not created in
     contemplation of such event;

          (c)  any Lien on any asset securing Debt incurred or assumed for the
     purpose of financing all or any part of the cost of acquiring such asset,
     provided that such Lien attaches to such asset concurrently with or within
     --------                                                                  
     90 days after the acquisition thereof;

          (d)  any Lien on any asset of any corporation existing at the time
     such corporation is merged into or consolidated with the Borrower or a
     Consolidated Subsidiary and not created in contemplation of such event;

          (e)  any Lien existing on any asset prior to the acquisition thereof
     by the Borrower or a Consolidated Subsidiary and not created in
     contemplation of such acquisition;


                                      15
<PAGE>
 
          (f)  any Lien arising out of the refinancing, extension, renewal or
     refunding of any Debt secured by any Lien permitted by any of the foregoing
     clauses of this Section, provided that such Debt is not increased and is
                              --------                                       
     not secured by any additional assets; and

          (g)  Liens arising in the ordinary course of its business which (i) do
     not secure Debt and (ii) do not in the aggregate materially detract from
     the value of its assets or materially impair the use thereof in the
     operation of its business.

          SECTION 6.08.  Consolidations, Mergers and Sales of Assets.  The
                         -------------------------------------------      
Borrower will not, without the prior written approval of the Lender, (i)
consolidate or merge with or into any other Person, (ii) participate in, or
contribute or assign any assets or funds to, any partnership or joint venture,
(iii) sell, lease or otherwise transfer all or any substantial part of its
assets to any other Person or (iv) transfer any Collateral other than in
accordance with the Pledge Agreement and the Security Agreement. The Borrower
will not permit any Subsidiary to consolidate with, merge with or into or
transfer all or any substantial part of its assets to any Person other than the
Borrower or a Wholly-Owned Consolidated Subsidiary.

          SECTION 6.09.  Use of Proceeds.  No part of the proceeds of any Loan
                         ---------------                                      
hereunder will be used, directly or indirectly, for the purpose, whether
immediate, incidental or ultimate of buying or carrying any "margin stock"
within the meaning of Regulation U. If requested by the Lender, the Borrower
will furnish to the Lender in connection with any Loan hereunder a statement in
conformity with the requirements of Federal Reserve Form U-1 referred to in
Regulation U.


                                      16
<PAGE>
 
          SECTION 6.10.  Interest Coverage Ratio.  The Borrower will not permit
                         -----------------------                               
the Interest Coverage Ratio as of the last day of any fiscal quarter to be less
than 3.5 to 1.

          SECTION 6.11.  Debt to Operating Cash Flow Ratio.  The Borrower will
                         ---------------------------------                    
not permit the ratio of Debt to Operating Cash Flow at any time to be greater
than 3.5 to 1.

          SECTION 6.12.  Lines of Business.  The Borrower will not, and will not
                         -----------------                                      
permit any Subsidiary to, enter into any new lines of business (which are
materially different from and unrelated to the lines of business respectively
conducted by them) or change materially the nature of the business respectively
conducted by them on the date hereof.

          SECTION 6.13.  Investments.  Neither the Borrower nor any Subsidiary
                         -----------                                          
will make or acquire any Investment in any Person other than:

          (a) Investments in Subsidiaries existing on the date hereof;

          (b) Temporary Cash Investments; and

          (c) any Investment not otherwise permitted by the foregoing clauses of
     this Section if, immediately after such Investment is made or acquired, the
     aggregate net book value of all Investments permitted by this clause (c)
     does not exceed $250,000.

          SECTION 6.14.  Certain Obligations Respecting Subsidiaries.  The
                         -------------------------------------------      
Lender shall have the right from time to time to require the Borrower, pursuant
to a written request from the Lender, (i) to cause such Subsidiaries as may be
specified in such request to become parties to the Subsidiary Guaranty or to
execute and deliver such other guaranties, in form and substance satisfactory to
the Lender, guaranteeing payment of the Borrower's obligations hereunder and
(ii) to cause such Material Subsidiaries as may be specified in such request to
become parties to the Security Agreement or to execute and deliver such other
security agreements, in form and substance satisfactory to the Lender, securing
payment of the Borrower's obligations hereunder.  Any such request shall be made
by the Lender in the good faith exercise of its discretion.  Within thirty days
after any such request, the Borrower shall, and shall cause the appropriate
Subsidiaries or Material Subsidiaries of the Borrower to (i) execute and deliver
to the Lender such number of copies as the Lender may specify of documents
creating such guaranties and security interests and (ii) do all other things
which may be necessary or which the Lender

                                      17
<PAGE>
 
may reasonably request in order to confer upon and confirm to the Lender the
benefits of such security interests.


                                  ARTICLE VII

                              EVENTS OF DEFAULTS

          SECTION 7.01.  Events of Default.  If any one or more of the following
                         -----------------                                      
events ("Events of Default") shall have occurred and be continuing:

          (a)  the Borrower shall fail to pay when due any principal of or
     interest on any Loan, or

          (b)  the Borrower shall fail to observe or perform any covenant
     contained in Sections 6.06 to 6.14 (inclusive) hereof; or

          (c)  the Borrower shall fail to observe or perform any covenant or
     agreement contained in this Agreement (other than those covered by clause
     (a) or (b) above) for 30 days after written notice thereof has been given
     to the Borrower by the Lender; or

          (d)  any representation, warranty, certification or statement made by
     the Borrower or any Subsidiary in this Agreement, the Pledge Agreement, the
     Security Agreement or the Subsidiary Guaranty or in any certificate,
     financial statement or other document delivered pursuant to this Agreement
     shall prove to have been incorrect in any material respect upon the date
     when made or deemed made; or

          (e)  the Borrower or any Subsidiary shall fail to make any payment in
     respect of any Material Debt (other than the Note) when due or within any
     applicable grace period; or

          (f)  any event or condition shall occur which results in the
     acceleration of the maturity of any Material Debt or enables (or, with the
     giving of notice or lapse of time or both, would enable) the holder of such
     Debt or any Person acting on such holder's behalf to accelerate the
     maturity thereof; or

          (g)  the Borrower or any Subsidiary shall commence a voluntary case or
     other proceeding seeking liquidation, reorganization or other relief with
     respect to itself or its debts under any bankruptcy, insolvency or other
     similar law now or hereafter in

                                      18
<PAGE>
 
     effect or seeking the appointment of a trustee, receiver, liquidator,
     custodian or other similar official of it or any substantial part of its
     property, or shall consent to any such relief or to the appointment of or
     taking possession by any such official in an involuntary case or other
     proceeding commenced against it, or shall make a general assignment for the
     benefit of creditors, or shall fail generally to pay its debts as they
     become due, or shall take any corporate action to authorize any of the
     foregoing; or

          (h)  an involuntary case or other proceeding shall be commenced
     against the Borrower or any Subsidiary seeking liquidation, reorganization
     or other relief with respect to it or its debts under any bankruptcy,
     insolvency or other similar law now or hereafter in effect or seeking the
     appointment of a trustee, receiver, liquidator, custodian or other similar
     official of it or any substantial part of its property, and such
     involuntary case or other proceeding shall remain undismissed and unstayed
     for a period of 60 days; or an order for relief shall be entered against
     the Borrower or any Subsidiary under the federal bankruptcy laws as now or
     hereafter in effect; or

          (i)  any member of the ERISA Group shall fail to pay when due any
     amount or amounts aggregating in excess of $200,000 which it shall have
     become liable to pay to the PBGC or to a Plan under Title IV of ERISA; or
     notice of intent to terminate a Plan or Plans having aggregate Unfunded
     Liabilities in excess of $200,000 (collectively, a "Material Plan") shall
     be filed under Title IV of ERISA by any member of the ERISA Group, any plan
     administrator or any combination of the foregoing; or the PBGC shall
     institute proceedings under Title IV of ERISA to terminate, to impose
     liability (other than for premiums under Section 4007 of ERISA) in respect
     of, or to cause a trustee to be appointed to administer any Material Plan;
     or a condition shall exist by reason of which the PBGC would be entitled to
     obtain a decree adjudicating that any Material Plan must be terminated; or
     there shall occur a complete or partial withdrawal from, or a default,
     within the meaning of Section 4219(c)(5) of ERISA, with respect to, one or
     more Plans which could cause one or more members of the ERISA Group to
     incur a current payment obligation in excess of $200,000; or

          (j)  judgments or orders for the payment of money in excess of
     $200,000 in the aggregate shall be

                                      19
<PAGE>
 
     rendered against the Borrower or any Subsidiary and such judgments or
     orders shall continue unsatisfied and unstayed for a period of 20 days; or

          (k)  the Subsidiary Guaranty, for any reason other than payment in
     full of all amounts due hereunder, ceases to be in full force and effect,
     is revoked or is declared null and void, or the Guarantors deny that they
     have or contest any further liability under the Subsidiary Guaranty, or
     give notice to that effect; or

          (l)  the Lien created by the Security Agreement shall at any time and
     for any reason not constitute a valid and perfected Lien subject to no
     prior or equal Lien;

then, and in every such event, (1) in the case of any of the Events of Default
specified in paragraphs (g) or (h) above, the principal of and accrued interest
on the Note shall automatically become due and payable without presentment,
demand, protest or other notice or formality of any kind, all of which are
hereby expressly waived and (2) in the case of any other Event of Default
specified above, the Lender may, by notice in writing to the Borrower, declare
the Note and all other sums payable under this Agreement to be, and the same
shall thereupon forthwith become, due and payable without presentment, demand,
protest or other notice or formality of any kind, all of which are hereby
expressly waived.


                                 ARTICLE VIII

                                 MISCELLANEOUS

          SECTION 8.01.  Notices.  All notices, requests and other
                         -------                                  
communications hereunder shall be in writing (including bankwire, telex,
facsimile transmission or similar writing). Each such notice, request or other
communication shall be effective (i) if given by telex, when such telex is
transmitted to the telex number specified in this Section and the appropriate
answerback is received, (ii) if given by facsimile transmission, when
transmitted to the facsimile number specified in this Section and oral
confirmation of receipt is received, (iii) if given by mail, 72 hours after such
communication is deposited in the mails with first class postage prepaid,
addressed as specified in this Section or (iv) if given by any other means, when
delivered at the address specified in this Section; provided that notices to the
Lender pursuant to Section 2.06 hereof which are given otherwise than by telex
or facsimile

                                      20
<PAGE>
 
transmission shall not be effective until received by the Lender. Any such
notice, request, demand or communication shall be delivered or addressed as
follows:

          (i)   if to the Borrower, to it at Mercom, Inc., 105 Carnegie Center,
          Princeton, New Jersey 08540; Attention:  Treasurer (if by facsimile
                                       ---------                             
          transmission, to facsimile no: 609-734-3875);

          (ii)  if to the Lender, to it at Cable Michigan, Inc., 105 Carnegie
          Center, Princeton, New Jersey 08540, Attention:  Treasurer (if by
                                               ---------                   
          facsimile transmision, to facsimile no. 609-734-3875);

or at such other address, telex or facsimile transmission number as any party
hereto may designate by written notice to the other party hereto.

          SECTION 8.02.  Amendments and Waivers; Cumulative Remedies.
                         ------------------------------------------- 

          (a)  None of the terms of this Agreement may be waived, altered or
amended except by an instrument in writing duly executed by the Borrower and the
Lender.

          (b)  No failure or delay by the Lender in exercising any right, power
or privilege hereunder or the Note shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall
any single or partial exercise thereof preclude any other or further exercise
thereof or the exercise of any other right, power or privilege.  The rights and
remedies provided herein shall be cumulative and not exclusive of any rights or
remedies provided by law.

          SECTION 8.03.  Successors and Assigns.  The provisions of this
                         ----------------------                         
Agreement shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of the Borrower
and the Lender and their respective successors and assigns, except that the
Borrower may not assign or otherwise transfer any of its rights under this
Agreement without the prior written consent of the Lender.

          SECTION 8.04.  Expenses; Documentary Taxes; Indemnification.  (a)  The
                         --------------------------------------------           
Borrower shall pay all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses and internal charges of
the Lender (including reasonable fees and disbursements of special counsel for
the Lender and time charges of attorneys who may be employees of the Lender) in
connection with the preparation and administration of this Agreement, the Note,
the Pledge Agreements, the Subsidiary Guaranty and the Security Agreement, any
waiver or consent hereunder or


                                      21
<PAGE>
 
thereunder, any amendment hereof or thereof, or any Default or alleged Default
hereunder or thereunder and, if there is an Event of Default, in connection with
collection, bankruptcy, insolvency and other enforcement proceedings resulting
therefrom. The Borrower shall indemnify the Lender against any transfer taxes,
documentary taxes, assessments or charges made by any governmental authority by
reason of the execution and delivery of this Agreement, the Note, any Pledge
Agreement, the Subsidiary Guaranty or the Security Agreement.

          (b)  The Borrower agrees to indemnify the Lender and hold the Lender
harmless from and against any and all liabilities, losses, damages, costs and
expenses of any kind, including, without limitation, the reasonable fees and
disbursements of counsel, which may be incurred by the Lender in connection with
any investigative, administrative or judicial proceeding (whether or not the
Lender shall be designated a party thereto) relating to or arising out of this
Agreement or any actual or proposed use of proceeds of Loans hereunder; provided
                                                                        --------
that the Lender shall not have the right to be indemnified hereunder for its own
gross negligence or willful misconduct as determined by a court of competent
jurisdiction.

          SECTION 8.05.  Counterparts; Integration.  This Agreement may be
                         -------------------------                        
signed in any number of counterparts with the same effect as if the signatures
thereto and hereto were upon the same instrument. This Agreement constitutes the
entire agreement and understanding between the parties hereto and supersedes any
and all prior agreements and understandings, oral or written, relating to the
subject matter hereof.

          SECTION 8.06.  Headings; Table of Contents.  The section and
                         ---------------------------                  
subsection headings used herein and the Table of Contents have been inserted for
convenience of reference only and do not constitute matters to be considered in
interpreting this Agreement.

          SECTION 8.07.  Governing Law.  This Agreement and the Note shall be
                         -------------                                       
construed in accordance with and governed by the law of the State of New York.

          SECTION 8.08.  WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL.  EACH OF THE BORROWER AND THE
                         --------------------                               
LENDER HEREBY IRREVOCABLY WAIVES ANY AND ALL RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY LEGAL
PROCEEDING ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT, THE PLEDGE AGREEMENT,
THE SECURITY AGREEMENT OR THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY AND THEREBY.

                                      22
<PAGE>
 
          IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Agreement to be duly
executed and delivered by their proper and duly authorized officers as of the
day and year first above written.


                                         MERCOM, INC.
                            
                            
                                         By:    /s/   Timothy J. Stoklosa
                                             -----------------------------------
                                             Title:   Vice President, Treasurer
                            
                            
                            
                                         CABLE MICHIGAN, INC.
                            
                            
                                         By:    /s/   Timothy J. Stoklosa
                                             -----------------------------------
                                             Title:   Senior Vice President,
                                                      Treasurer


                                      23
<PAGE>
 
                                                                       EXHIBIT A

                                     NOTE

U.S. $14,150,725                                              September 29, 1997
 
                                                              New York, New York

          FOR VALUE RECEIVED, MERCOM, INC., Delaware corporation (the
"Borrower"), hereby unconditionally promises to pay to the order of CABLE
MICHIGAN, INC. (the "Lender") for its account, the unpaid principal amount of
each Loan outstanding under the Credit Agreement referred to below on the
maturity date provided for in the Credit Agreement.  The Borrower promises to
pay interest on the unpaid principal amount of each such Loan on the dates and
at the rate or rates provided for in the Credit Agreement.

          All such payments of principal and interest shall be made in lawful
money of the United States of America in Federal or other immediately available
funds at the office of the Lender designated pursuant to Section 2.06 of the
Credit Agreement.

          All Loans made by the Lender, the respective types and maturities
thereof and all repayments of the principal thereof shall be recorded by the
Lender and, prior to any transfer hereof, appropriate notations to evidence the
foregoing information with respect to each such Loan then outstanding shall be
endorsed by the Lender on the schedule attached hereto and made a part hereof;
provided that the failure of the Lender to make any such recordation or
- --------                                                               
endorsement shall not affect the obligations of the Borrower hereunder or under
the Credit Agreement.

          This note is the Note referred to in the amended and restated Term
Credit Agreement between the Borrower and the Lender dated as of September 29,
1997 (as the same may be amended from time to time, the "Credit Agreement").
Terms defined in the Credit Agreement are used herein with the same meanings.
Reference is made to the Credit Agreement for provisions for the prepayment
hereof and the acceleration of the maturity hereof.

                                      MERCOM, INC.


                                      By: /s/ Timothy J. Stoklosa
                                         ------------------------------------
                                         Title: Senior Vice President, Treasurer

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<PAGE>
<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS AS OF AND FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1997 AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   9-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1997
<PERIOD-START>                             JAN-01-1997
<PERIOD-END>                               SEP-30-1997
<CASH>                                           4,013
<SECURITIES>                                         0
<RECEIVABLES>                                      395
<ALLOWANCES>                                        57
<INVENTORY>                                          0
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                                 4,539
<PP&E>                                          41,545
<DEPRECIATION>                                  28,352
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                  19,529
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                            3,770
<BONDS>                                         14,151
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                         4,787
<OTHER-SE>                                     (3,879)
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                    19,529
<SALES>                                              0
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                                12,399
<CGS>                                                0
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                    6,750
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                     0
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                    86
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                                 812
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                  4,307
<INCOME-TAX>                                       480
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                              3,827
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                     3,827
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                      .80
<EPS-DILUTED>                                      .80
        

</TABLE>


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