As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 23, 2011
Registration No. 333-
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM S-4
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
VALASSIS COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
See Table of Subsidiary Guarantor Registrants
Listed On Schedule A Hereto
(Exact names of registrants as specified in their charters)
Delaware | 7310 | 38-2760940 | ||
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) |
(Primary Standard Industrial Classification Code Number) |
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) |
19975 Victor Parkway
Livonia, Michigan 48152
(734) 591-3000
(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of each of the registrants principal executive offices)
Todd L. Wiseley, Esq.
General Counsel, Senior Vice President,
Administration and Secretary
Valassis Communications, Inc.
19975 Victor Parkway
Livonia, Michigan 48152
(734) 591-3000
(Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of agent for service)
Copy to:
Amy S. Leder, Esq.
McDermott Will & Emery LLP
340 Madison Avenue
New York, New York 10173
(212) 547-5400
Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale of the securities to the public: As soon as practicable after this Registration Statement becomes effective.
If the securities being registered on this Form are being offered in connection with the formation of a holding company and there is compliance with General Instruction G, check the following box. ¨
If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. ¨
If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of large accelerated filer, accelerated filer and smaller reporting company in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer | þ | Accelerated filer | ¨ | |||||
(Non-accelerated filer | ¨ | (Do not check if a smaller reporting company) | Smaller reporting company | ¨ |
If applicable, place an X in the box to designate the appropriate rule provision relied upon in conducting this transaction:
Exchange Act Rule 13e-4(i) (Cross-Border Issuer Tender Offer) ¨
Exchange Act Rule 14d-1(d) (Cross-Border Third-Party Tender Offer) ¨
CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE
Title of Each Class of Securities to be Registered |
Amount to be Registered |
Proposed Maximum Offering Price Per Unit |
Proposed Maximum Aggregate Offering Price |
Amount of Registration Fee(1) | ||||
6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021 |
$260,000,000 | 100% | $260,000,000 | $30,186.00 | ||||
Subsidiary Guarantees of the 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021 |
$260,000,000 | N/A | N/A | N/A(2) | ||||
(1) | The registration fee for the securities offered hereby has been calculated under Rule 457(f)(2) of the Securities Act. |
(2) | Pursuant to Rule 457(n) under the Securities Act, no additional registration fee is payable for the subsidiary guarantees. |
The Registrants hereby amend this Registration Statement on such date or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the Registrants shall file a further amendment which specifically states that this Registration Statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or until the Registration Statement shall become effective on such date as the Securities and Exchange Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a), may determine.
Schedule A
Table of Subsidiary Guarantor Registrants
Exact Name of Additional Registrant as Specified in its Charter* |
State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization |
Primary Standard Industrial Classification Code Number/SIC |
I.R.S. Employer Identification Number | |||
MailCoups, Inc. |
Delaware | 7331 | 04-3407977 | |||
MailCoups Direct, Inc. |
Delaware | 7331 | 86-1139548 | |||
NCH Marketing Services, Inc. |
Delaware | 7310 | 33-0689617 | |||
NCH NuWorld Spain Inc. |
Delaware | 7310 | 51-0403070 | |||
Perimeter Marketing Company |
Delaware | 7310 | 57-1229418 | |||
Promotion Watch, Inc. |
Delaware | 7310 | 38-3413140 | |||
Valassis Coupon Clearing, Inc. |
Delaware | 7310 | 32-0078209 | |||
Valassis Data Management, Inc. |
Delaware | 7310 | 38-3552742 | |||
Valassis Direct Mail, Inc. |
Delaware | 7331 | 06-0885252 | |||
Valassis Interactive, Inc. |
Delaware | 7310 | 38-3573420 | |||
Valassis International, Inc. |
Delaware | 7310 | 38-3196604 | |||
Valassis In-Store Solutions, Inc. |
Delaware | 7310 | 30-0545900 | |||
Valassis Manufacturing Company |
Delaware | 7310 | 38-3635808 | |||
Valassis Relationship Marketing Systems, LLC |
Delaware | 7310 | 38-3635808 | |||
Valassis Sales & Marketing Services, Inc. |
Delaware | 7310 | 38-3573415 | |||
VC Holdings, LLC |
Michigan | 7359 | 27-3406201 | |||
VCI Enterprises, Inc. |
Delaware | 7310 | 74-2639132 |
* | The address of each of the additional registrants is c/o Valassis Communications, Inc., 19975 Victor Parkway, Livonia, Michigan 48152, telephone (734) 591-3000. |
The information in this prospectus is not complete and may be changed. We may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and it is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any state where the offer or sale is not permitted.
SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED MAY 23, 2011
PROSPECTUS
$260,000,000
VALASSIS COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
Offer To Exchange
6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021, which have been registered under the Securities Act,
for
a like principal amount of outstanding, unregistered 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021
We are offering to exchange our currently outstanding, unregistered 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021, or the original notes, for our registered 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021, or the exchange notes. We sometimes refer to the original notes and the exchange notes in this prospectus collectively as the notes. The exchange notes are substantially identical to the original notes, except that the exchange notes have been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Act, and, therefore, will not have any transfer restrictions, will bear a different CUSIP number from the original notes and will not entitle their holders to registration rights or rights to earn additional interest under circumstances relating to our registration obligations. The exchange notes will represent the same debt as the original notes, and we will issue the exchange notes pursuant to, and they will be entitled to the benefits of, the same indenture. We are making the exchange offer in order to satisfy certain contractual obligations.
The exchange notes will be fully and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, by substantially all of our existing and future domestic restricted subsidiaries. The exchange notes and the subsidiary guarantees will be unsecured senior obligations that will rank equally in right of payment with all of our and our subsidiary guarantors existing and future unsecured senior indebtedness and senior in right of payment to all of our and our subsidiary guarantors future subordinated indebtedness. The exchange notes and the subsidiary guarantees will be effectively subordinated in right of payment to our and our subsidiary guarantors existing and future secured indebtedness, including the indebtedness and subsidiary guarantees under our senior secured credit facility and our senior secured convertible notes due 2033, or the 2033 Secured Notes, of which $0.1 million remains outstanding, to the extent of the value of the assets securing such indebtedness. The exchange notes and the subsidiary guarantees will also be structurally subordinated to all obligations of each of our subsidiaries that is not a guarantor of the exchange notes.
The principal terms of the exchange offer are as follows:
| The exchange offer expires at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on , 2011, the twenty-first full business day following the commencement of the exchange offer, unless extended. |
| We will exchange all original notes that are validly tendered and not validly withdrawn prior to the expiration of the exchange offer. |
| You may withdraw tendered original notes at any time prior to the expiration of the exchange offer. |
| The exchange of original notes for exchange notes pursuant to the exchange offer will not be a taxable event for United States federal income tax purposes. See Material United States Federal Income Tax Considerations. |
| We will not receive any proceeds from the exchange offer. |
| No public market exists for the notes. We do not intend to apply for listing or quotation of the exchange notes on any securities exchange or automated dealer quotation system. |
Each broker-dealer that receives exchange notes for its own account pursuant to the exchange offer must acknowledge that it will deliver a prospectus meeting the requirements of the Securities Act in connection with any resale of such exchange notes. The letter of transmittal accompanying this prospectus states that, by so acknowledging and by delivering a prospectus, a broker-dealer will not be deemed to admit that it is an underwriter within the meaning of the Securities Act. This prospectus, as it may be amended or supplemented from time to time, may be used by a broker-dealer in connection with resales of exchange notes received in exchange for original notes where the original notes were acquired by the broker-dealer as a result of market-making or other trading activities. We have agreed that, for a period of up to 180 days after the date this registration statement is declared effective, we will make this prospectus available to any broker-dealer upon request for use in connection with any such resale. See Plan of Distribution.
See Risk Factors beginning on page 9 for a discussion of certain factors you should consider in connection with the exchange offer.
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of the exchange notes or determined if this prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
The date of this prospectus is , 2011
We have not authorized any dealer, salesman or other person to give any information or to make any representation other than those contained in this prospectus. You should rely only on the information contained in this prospectus. This prospectus does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities other than the registered securities to which it relates, nor does this prospectus constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy securities in any jurisdiction to any persons to whom it is unlawful to make such offer or solicitation in such jurisdiction. You should not assume that the information contained in this prospectus is accurate as of any date other than the date indicated on the front cover of this prospectus or such earlier date as may be specified in this prospectus or that any information we have incorporated by reference is accurate as of any date other than the date of the document incorporated by reference or such earlier date as may be specified therein.
In this prospectus, we rely on and refer to information regarding the media and marketing services industry and the various markets in which we compete. We obtained this information from various industry publications, other publicly available information, market research and our own internal surveys and estimates. Industry publications generally state that the information therein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but that the accuracy and completeness of the information has not been independently verified and is not guaranteed. Similarly, other publicly available information, market research and our own internal surveys and estimates, while believed to be reliable, have not been independently verified, and we do not make any representation as to the accuracy or completeness of such information. As a result, you should be aware that market share, ranking and other similar data set forth herein, and estimates and beliefs based on such data, may not be reliable.
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE; WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
We file annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and other information with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC. You may read and copy any document we file with the SEC at the SECs public reference room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the public reference room and its copy charges. Our SEC filings are also available to the public on the SECs website at www.sec.gov. Our common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange, or NYSE, under the symbol VCI and all reports, proxy statements and other information filed by us with the NYSE may be inspected at the NYSEs offices at 20 Broad Street, New York, New York 10005.
We have filed with the SEC a registration statement on Form S-4 under the Securities Act with respect to the exchange offer. This prospectus does not contain all of the information contained in the registration statement and the exhibits to the registration statement. Copies of our SEC filings, including the exhibits to the registration statement, are available through us or from the SEC through the SECs website or at its facilities described above.
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In this prospectus, we incorporate by reference the information we file with the SEC, which means that we can disclose important information to you by referring to that information. The information incorporated by reference is considered to be an important part of this prospectus. Any statement in a document incorporated by reference in this prospectus will be deemed to be modified or superseded to the extent a statement contained in this prospectus or any other subsequently filed document that is incorporated by reference in this prospectus modifies or supersedes such statement. We incorporate by reference in this prospectus the following documents (File No. 001-10991) previously filed with the SEC pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act:
1. Our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010, filed with the SEC on March 1, 2011;
2. Our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2011, filed with the SEC on May 10, 2011; and
3. Our Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on May 10, 2011 (relating to Item 5.07).
We also incorporate by reference any future filings made by us with the SEC under Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14, or 15(d) of the Exchange Act until the expiration of the exchange offer.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, we are not incorporating any document or information deemed to have been furnished and not filed in accordance with SEC rules. You may request a copy of these filings, at no cost, by writing or telephoning us at the following address:
Valassis Communications, Inc.
19975 Victor Parkway
Livonia, Michigan 48152
Attention: Investor Relations
Phone: (734) 591-3000
Exhibits to the filings will not be sent, however, unless those exhibits have been specifically incorporated by reference in this prospectus. In order to ensure timely delivery of this information, any request should be made by , 2011, five business days prior to the expiration date of the exchange offer.
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This prospectus contains and incorporates by reference forward-looking statements which involve risks and uncertainties. You can identify forward-looking statements because they contain words such as believes, expects, may, will, should, seeks, approximately, intends, plans, estimates, or anticipates or similar expressions that concern our strategy, plans or intentions. All statements we make relating to estimated and projected earnings, margins, costs, expenditures, cash flows, growth rates, stock repurchases and financial results are forward-looking statements. In addition, we, through our senior management, from time to time make forward-looking public statements concerning our expected future operations and performance and other developments. All of these forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may change at any time, and, therefore, our actual results may differ materially from those we expected. We derive most of our forward-looking statements from our operating budgets and forecasts, which are based upon many detailed assumptions. While we believe that our assumptions are reasonable, we caution that it is very difficult to predict the impact of known factors, and, of course, it is impossible for us to anticipate all factors that could affect our actual results. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations (cautionary statements) are disclosed under Risk Factors and elsewhere in this prospectus, including, without limitation, in conjunction with the forward-looking statements included or incorporated by reference in this prospectus. All written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to us, or persons acting on our behalf, are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements. Some of the factors that we believe could affect our results include:
| price and product competition from our existing competitors; |
| new competitors in any of our businesses; |
| a shift in client preference for different promotional materials, strategies or coupon delivery methods, including, without limitation, as a result of declines in newspaper circulation; |
| an increase in paper or postal costs; |
| changes which affect the businesses of our clients and lead to reduced sales promotion spending, including, without limitation, a decrease of marketing budgets which are generally discretionary in nature and easier to reduce in the short-term than other expenses; |
| our substantial indebtedness, and ability to refinance such indebtedness, if necessary, and our ability to incur additional indebtedness, may affect our financial health; |
| the financial condition, including bankruptcies, of our clients, suppliers, senior secured credit facility lenders or other counterparties; |
| certain covenants in our debt documents could adversely restrict our financial and operating flexibility; |
| fluctuations in the amount, timing, pages, weight and kinds of advertising pieces from period to period, due to a change in our clients promotional needs, inventories and other factors; |
| our failure to attract and retain qualified personnel may affect our business and results of operations; |
| a rise in interest rates could increase our borrowing costs; |
| we may be required to recognize additional impairment charges against goodwill and intangible assets in the future; |
| possible governmental regulation or litigation affecting aspects of our business; |
| clients experiencing financial difficulties, or otherwise being unable to meet their obligations as they become due, could affect our results of operations and financial condition; |
| uncertainty in the application and interpretation of applicable state sales tax laws may expose us to additional sales tax liability; |
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| and general economic conditions, whether nationally, internationally, or in the market areas in which we conducts our business, including the adverse impact of the ongoing economic downturn on the marketing expenditures and activities of our clients and prospective clients as well as our vendors, with whom we rely on to provide us with quality materials at the right prices and in a timely manner; and |
| the other factors set forth under Risk Factors. |
We caution you that the foregoing list of important factors may not contain all of the material factors that are important to you. In addition, in light of these risks and uncertainties, the matters referred to in the forward-looking statements contained or incorporated by reference in this prospectus may not in fact occur. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by law.
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This summary contains basic information about our Company and the exchange offer. This summary highlights only selected information from, or incorporated by reference in, this prospectus. This summary is not complete and may not contain all of the information that is important to you and that you should consider before deciding whether or not to participate in the exchange offer. For a more complete understanding of our Company and the exchange offer, you should read this entire prospectus, including any information incorporated by reference into this prospectus, in its entirety. See also Incorporation By Reference; Where You Can Find More Information. Unless otherwise indicated or required by the context, the terms Valassis, we, our, us and the Company refer to Valassis Communications, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries (except in the section entitled Description of the Notes, in which case such terms refer only to Valassis Communications, Inc. and not to any of its subsidiaries). Unless otherwise indicated, references to fiscal year refer to the fiscal year of Valassis, which ends on December 31.
Valassis
We are one of the nations leading media and marketing services companies, offering unparalleled reach and scale to more than 15,000 advertisers. Our RedPlum media portfolio delivers value on a weekly basis to over 100 million shoppers across a multi-media platformin-home, in-store and in-motion. Through our digital offering, including redplum.com and save.com, consumers can find compelling national and local deals online.
Our products and services are positioned to help our clients reach their customers through mass-delivered or targeted programs. We provide our clients with blended media solutions, including shared mail, newspaper, in-store and digital delivery. We offer the only national shared mail distribution network in the industry. We utilize a proprietary patent pending targeting tool that provides our clients with multi-media recommendations and optimization. We are committed to providing innovative marketing solutions to maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of promotions for our clients and to deliver value to consumers how, when and where they want.
During fiscal year 2010, we generated revenues of $2,333.5 million and net earnings of $385.4 million, which included a loss on extinguishment of debt, net of tax, of $14.7 million and News America litigation settlement proceeds, net of tax and related payments, of $301.4 million. During the three-months ended March 31, 2011, we generated revenues of $547.0 million and net earnings of $21.4 million, which included a loss on extinguishment of debt, net of tax, of $8.2 million.
We currently operate our business in the following reportable segments: Shared Mail, Neighborhood Targeted and Free-Standing Inserts. In addition, all of our other lines of business that are not separately reported are captioned as International, Digital Media & Services, which includes NCH Marketing Services, Inc., Valassis Canada, Inc., Promotion Watch, direct mail, analytics, digital and in-store.
Additional Information
Valassis Communications, Inc. is a Delaware corporation. Our principal executive offices are located at 19975 Victor Parkway, Livonia, Michigan 48152 and our telephone number is (734) 591-3000. Our website is www.valassis.com and is an interactive textual reference only, meaning that the information contained on the website is not part of this prospectus by reference or otherwise.
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Summary Terms of the Exchange Offer
On January 28, 2011, we completed an offering of $260,000,000 aggregate principal amount of the original notes in a transaction exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act. The original notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed as to payment of principal and interest by the subsidiary guarantors. The exchange notes will be our obligations and will be entitled to the benefits of the indenture relating to the original notes. The exchange notes will also be fully and unconditionally guaranteed as to payment of principal and interest by the subsidiary guarantors. The form and terms of the exchange notes are substantially identical in all material respects to the form and terms of the original notes, except that the exchange notes:
| have been registered under the Securities Act and, therefore, will contain no restrictive legends; |
| will bear a different CUSIP number from the original notes; |
| will not have registration rights; and |
| will not have the right to earn additional interest under circumstances relating to our registration obligations. |
The following is a brief summary of the terms of the exchange offer. It likely does not contain all the information that is important to you. For a more complete description of the exchange offer, see The Exchange Offer.
The Exchange Offer |
We are offering to exchange our exchange notes, which have been registered under the Securities Act, for a like principal amount of our currently outstanding, unregistered original notes. $260.0 million aggregate principal amount of our original notes are outstanding. Original notes may only be exchanged in integral multiples of $1,000 in principal amount. See The Exchange OfferTerms of the Exchange Offer. |
Expiration of the Exchange Offer |
The exchange offer will expire at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on , 2011, the twenty-first full day following the commencement of the exchange offer, unless we decide to extend the expiration date. |
Withdrawal Rights |
You may withdraw your tender of original notes at any time before the exchange offer expires by following the withdrawal procedures that are described under The Exchange OfferWithdrawal of Tenders. |
Registration Rights Agreement |
The exchange offer is intended to satisfy your registration rights under the registration rights agreement we and the subsidiary guarantors entered into with the initial purchasers of the original notes. After the exchange offer is closed, we will no longer have an obligation to register the original notes, except under limited circumstances. Under the registration rights agreement, we are required to pay liquidated damages in the form of additional interest on the original notes in certain circumstances, including if the exchange offer registration statement is not declared effective by the SEC on or before 240 days after issuance of the original notes or the exchange offer is not consummated within 30 business days after the effective date of the exchange offer registration statement. See The Exchange OfferPurpose and Effect of the Exchange Offer. |
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Resale of Exchange Notes |
Based on existing interpretations by the staff of the SEC set forth in no-action letters issued to other parties unrelated to us, we believe that the exchange notes issued pursuant to the exchange offer in exchange for original notes may be offered for resale, resold and otherwise transferred by you without compliance with the registration and prospectus delivery provisions of the Securities Act, provided that you will acknowledge that: |
| you are acquiring the exchange notes in the ordinary course of your business; |
| you are not engaged in, and do not intend to engage in, the distribution of the exchange notes (within the meaning of the Securities Act); |
| you have no arrangement or understanding with any person or entity to participate in the distribution of the exchange notes; and |
| you are not our affiliate, as defined in Rule 405 under the Securities Act. |
In addition, each broker-dealer that receives exchange notes for its own account in exchange for original notes that were acquired by that broker-dealer as a result of market-making or other trading activities must acknowledge that it will deliver a prospectus in connection with any resale of the exchange notes. See Plan of Distribution. |
We do not intend to apply for listing of the exchange notes on any securities exchange or to seek approval for quotation through an automated quotation system. Accordingly, we cannot assure you that an active market will develop upon completion of the exchange offer or, if developed, that such market will be sustained or as to the liquidity of any market. |
Conditions to the Exchange Offer |
The exchange offer is subject to certain customary conditions which we may amend or waive. The exchange offer is not conditioned upon any minimum principal amount of original notes being tendered. See The Exchange OfferConditions to the Exchange Offer. |
Procedures for Tendering Original Notes |
If you wish to accept the exchange offer, you must transmit a properly completed and signed letter of transmittal, together with all other documents required by the letter of transmittal, including the certificate or certificates representing your original notes to be exchanged, to the exchange agent at the address set forth on the cover page of the letter of transmittal. These materials must be received by the exchange agent before 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on , 2011, the expiration date of the exchange offer. In the alternative, you can tender your original notes by following the procedures for book-entry transfer, as described in this prospectus, prior to the expiration of the exchange offer. For more information on accepting the exchange offer and tendering your original notes, see The Exchange OfferProcedures for Tendering. |
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Special Procedures for Beneficial Owners |
If you are a beneficial owner of original notes that are registered in the name of a broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company or other nominee and you wish to tender your original notes in the exchange offer, you should contact the registered holder of the original notes promptly and instruct the registered holder to tender your notes on your behalf. If you wish to tender in the exchange offer on your own behalf, you must, prior to completing and executing the letter of transmittal and delivering your original notes, either arrange to have the original notes registered in your name or obtain a properly completed bond power from the registered holder. The transfer of registered ownership may take a considerable amount of time and may not be able to be completed prior to the expiration date. See The Exchange OfferProcedures for Tendering. |
Guaranteed Delivery Procedures |
If you cannot deliver your original notes, the letter of transmittal or any other required documentation, or if you cannot comply with The Depository Trust Companys, or DTCs, Automated Tender Offer Program for transfer of book-entry interests, prior to the expiration date, you may tender your original notes according to the guaranteed delivery procedures set forth under The Exchange OfferGuaranteed Delivery Procedures. |
Acceptance of the Original Notes and Delivery of the Exchange Notes |
We will accept for exchange any and all original notes that you properly tender in the exchange offer prior to the expiration date of the exchange offer. We will issue and deliver the exchange notes promptly following the expiration date of the exchange offer. See The Exchange OfferTerms of the Exchange Offer. |
Use of Proceeds |
We will not receive any proceeds from the issuance of exchange notes pursuant to the exchange offer. |
Material United States Federal Income Tax Consequences |
We believe that the exchange of original notes for exchange notes pursuant to the exchange offer will not be a taxable event for United States federal income tax purposes, but you should consult your tax adviser about the tax consequences of the exchange offer. See Material United States Federal Income Tax Considerations. |
Consequences of Failure to Exchange |
All untendered original notes and original notes not accepted for exchange will continue to be subject to the restrictions on transfer set forth in the original notes and in the indenture governing the notes. In general, you may not offer or sell your original notes unless they are registered under the federal securities laws or sold in a transaction exempt from, or not subject to, the registration requirements of federal and applicable state securities laws. As a result of the restrictions on transfer and the availability of exchange notes, any remaining original notes are likely to be much less liquid than before the exchange offer. After the exchange offer is closed, we will no |
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longer have an obligation to register the original notes, except in limited circumstances. See The Exchange OfferConsequences to Holders of Original Notes Not Tendering in the Exchange Offer. |
Exchange Agent |
Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, the trustee under the indenture for the notes, is serving as the exchange agent in connection with the exchange offer. The address, telephone number and facsimile number of the exchange agent are listed in The Exchange OfferExchange Agent and in the letter of transmittal. |
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Summary Terms of the Exchange Notes
The following is a brief summary of the principal terms of the exchange notes. For a more complete description of the terms of the exchange notes, see Description of the Notes. The exchange notes will have terms identical in all material respects to the form and terms of the original notes, except that the exchange notes have been registered under the Securities Act and, therefore, will not be subject to certain transfer restrictions, will bear a different CUSIP number from the original notes and will not entitle their holders to registration rights or rights to earn additional interest under circumstances relating to our registration obligations.
Issuer |
Valassis Communications, Inc. |
Notes Offered |
$260,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021. |
Maturity Date |
February 1, 2021. |
Interest Payment Dates |
February 1 and August 1 of each year, commencing on August 1, 2011. Interest on the exchange notes will accrue from the last interest payment date on which interest was paid on the original notes surrendered in exchange for the exchange notes or, if no interest has been paid on the original notes, from January 28, 2011. |
Guarantees |
Our obligations under the exchange notes will be fully and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, by substantially all of our existing and future domestic restricted subsidiaries. |
Ranking |
The exchange notes and the related subsidiary guarantees will be our and our subsidiary guarantors unsecured senior obligations. They will rank equally in right of payment with all of our and our subsidiary guarantors existing and future unsecured senior indebtedness and senior in right of payment to all of our and our subsidiary guarantors future subordinated indebtedness. The exchange notes and the related subsidiary guarantees will be effectively subordinated in right of payment to our and our subsidiary guarantors existing and future secured indebtedness, including the indebtedness and subsidiary guarantees under our senior secured credit facility and our senior secured convertible notes due 2033, or the 2033 Secured Notes, of which $0.1 million remains outstanding, to the extent of the value of the assets securing such indebtedness. The exchange notes and the related subsidiary guarantees will also be structurally subordinated to all obligations of each of our subsidiaries that is not a guarantor of the exchange notes. |
As of March 31, 2011, the original notes and the related subsidiary guarantees ranked effectively junior to approximately $462.2 million of senior secured indebtedness, and we had an additional $39.0 million available under the revolving line of credit portion of our senior secured credit facility, after giving effect to the issuance of $11.0 million of letters of credit. |
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Our non-guarantor subsidiaries represented 0.9% and 2.8% of the consolidated operating income of our Company and our subsidiaries for the year ended December 31, 2010 and the three-months ended March 31, 2011, respectively. |
Optional Redemption |
Prior to February 1, 2016, we may, at our option, redeem all or a portion of the exchange notes at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of exchange notes to be redeemed plus a make-whole premium, as described in Description of the NotesOptional Redemption, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of redemption. |
At any time on or after February 1, 2016, we may, at our option, redeem all or a portion of the exchange notes at the redemption prices set forth under Description of the NotesOptional Redemption, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of redemption. |
In addition, on or prior to February 1, 2014, we may, at our option, redeem up to 35% of the principal amount of the outstanding exchange notes with the proceeds of certain sales of our equity at the redemption price set forth under Description of the NotesOptional Redemption, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of redemption. We may make the redemption only if (i) the redemption occurs within 120 days of the closing of the applicable equity offering and (ii) after the redemption, at least 65% of the aggregate principal amount of the exchange notes originally issued remains outstanding. |
Asset Sales |
If we or any of our restricted subsidiaries sell certain assets and do not apply the proceeds as required by the indenture governing the notes, we must, subject to the prepayment requirements of our senior secured credit facility, offer to repurchase the exchange notes at a price equal to 100% of the aggregate principal amount of the exchange notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of purchase. |
Change of Control |
If a change of control occurs, we must offer to repurchase all of the exchange notes at a price equal to 101% of the aggregate principal amount of the exchange notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of repurchase. See Description of the NotesChange of Control. |
We may not be able to pay you the required price for exchange notes you present to us at the time of a change of control because we may not have enough funds at that time or terms of the agreements governing our indebtedness may prevent us from making such payment. See Risk FactorsWe may not have sufficient funds or be permitted by our senior secured credit facility or other agreements governing our indebtedness to purchase the notes upon a change of control. |
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Certain Covenants |
The indenture governing the notes contains covenants that, among other things, restrict our ability and the ability of our restricted subsidiaries to: |
| incur or guarantee additional indebtedness; |
| pay dividends and make distributions; |
| make certain investments; |
| repurchase stock; |
| incur liens; |
| enter into transactions with affiliates; |
| merge or consolidate; and |
| transfer or sell assets. |
These covenants are subject to important limitations and exceptions. See Description of the NotesCertain Covenants. These covenants will cease to apply to the exchange notes if the exchange notes receive investment grade ratings from both Moodys Investors Service, Inc. and Standard & Poors Ratings Group. See Description of the NotesCertain Covenants. |
No Public Market |
The exchange notes are new securities for which there is currently no market. We do not intend to apply for listing or quotation of the exchange notes on any securities exchange or automated dealer quotation system. Although the initial purchasers in the private offering of the original notes have informed us that they currently intend to make a market in the exchange notes, they are not obligated to do so and may discontinue market making activities at any time, in their sole discretion, without notice. Accordingly, we cannot assure you that a liquid market for the exchange notes will develop or be maintained. |
Risk Factors |
You should consider carefully all of the information set forth in this prospectus and the documents incorporated by reference herein and, in particular, you should evaluate the risks in this prospectus under Risk Factors and in Item 1A. Risk Factors in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, which is incorporated by reference in this prospectus, before deciding whether to participate in the exchange offer. |
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Before deciding to participate in the exchange offer, you should consider carefully the risks and uncertainties described below and in Item 1A Risk Factors in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 together with all of the other information included or incorporated by reference in this prospectus, including our consolidated financial statements and related notes. Those risks and uncertainties and the risks and uncertainties described below are not the only risks and uncertainties that we face. Additional risks and uncertainties that are not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial or that are not specific to us, such as general economic conditions, may also materially and adversely affect our business and operations. If any of those risks and uncertainties or the risks and uncertainties described below actually occur, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be harmed substantially. In such a case, we may be unable to meet our obligations under the exchange notes and you may lose all or part of your investment in the exchange notes.
Risks Related to the Exchange Offer
If you fail to exchange your original notes, they will continue to be restricted securities and may become less liquid.
Original notes that you do not tender or we do not accept will, following the exchange offer, continue to be restricted securities, and you may not offer to sell them except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. Other than in connection with the exchange offer, we do not plan to register the original notes under the Securities Act. If you hold any original notes after the exchange offer is completed, you may have trouble selling them because of these restrictions on transfer.
Because we anticipate that most holders of original notes will elect to participate in the exchange offer, we expect that the liquidity of the market for any original notes remaining after the completion of the exchange offer will be substantially limited. Any original notes tendered and exchanged in the exchange offer will reduce the aggregate principal amount of the original notes outstanding. Following the exchange offer, if you did not tender your original notes you will not have any further registration rights, except in limited circumstances, and your original notes will continue to be subject to certain transfer restrictions.
You must comply with the exchange offer procedures in order to receive the exchange notes.
We will only issue exchange notes in exchange for original notes that you timely and properly tender. Therefore, you should allow sufficient time to ensure timely delivery of the original notes, and you should carefully follow the instructions on how to tender your original notes set forth under The Exchange OfferProcedures for Tendering and in the letter of transmittal that accompanies this prospectus. Neither we nor the exchange agent are required to notify you of any defects or irregularities relating to your tender of original notes.
If an active trading market does not develop for the exchange notes, you may be unable to sell the exchange notes or sell them at a price you deem sufficient.
The exchange notes are a new issue of securities, and there is no established trading market for the exchange notes. We do not intend to list the exchange notes on any national securities exchange or to seek their quotation on any automated dealer quotation system. Accordingly, we cannot assure you that a market will develop upon completion of the exchange offer or, if it develops, that such market will be sustained, or as to the liquidity of any market. If a trading market does not develop, or, if developed, does not continue, purchasers of the exchanges notes may not be able to sell them. Even if a trading market develops, the exchange notes may trade at a discount from the their principal amount or purchase price, depending upon:
| the number of holders of such exchange notes; |
| prevailing interest rates; |
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| the interest of securities dealers in making a market in the exchange notes; |
| the market for similar securities; and |
| other factors, including general economic conditions and our financial condition, credit rating, performance and prospects and prospects for companies in our industry generally. |
In addition, the market for non-investment-grade debt securities has historically been subject to disruptions that have caused substantial price volatility independent of the operating and financial performance of the issuers of these securities. It is possible that the market for the exchange notes will be subject to these kinds of disruptions. Accordingly, declines in the liquidity and market price of the exchange notes may occur independent of our operating and financial performance and could have an adverse effect on holders of the exchange notes. We cannot assure you that any liquid market for the exchange notes will develop.
The initial purchasers have advised us that they currently intend to make a market in the exchange notes but they are not obligated to do so. The initial purchasers may also discontinue market making activities at any time, in their sole discretion, which could further negatively impact your ability to sell the exchange notes, or the prevailing market price at the time you choose to sell.
Some holders who exchange their original notes may be deemed to be underwriters and these holders will be required to comply with the registration and prospectus delivery requirements in connection with any resale transaction.
If you exchange your original notes in the exchange offer for the purpose of participating in a distribution of the exchange notes, you may be deemed to have received restricted securities and, if so, will be required to comply with the registration and prospectus delivery requirements of the Securities Act in connection with any resale transaction.
Risks Related to the Notes and Our Other Indebtedness
Our substantial indebtedness could adversely affect our financial health and make it more difficult for us to service our debt or obtain additional financing, if necessary.
As of March 31, 2011, we had approximately $722.2 million of total indebtedness (of which approximately $462.2 million was secured). In addition, as of March 31, 2011, we had approximately $39.0 million of undrawn availability under our revolving credit facility, after giving effect to the issuance of $11.0 million of letters of credit. Our substantial level of indebtedness could have a material adverse effect on our business and make it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations under our outstanding indebtedness. As a result of our significant amount of debt and debt service obligations, we face increased risks regarding, among other things, the following:
| our ability to borrow additional amounts or refinance existing indebtedness in the future for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions, debt service requirements, investments, stock repurchases, execution of our growth strategy, or other purposes may be limited or such financing may be more costly; |
| we have reduced availability of cash flow to fund working capital requirements, capital expenditures, investments, acquisitions or other strategic initiatives and other general corporate purposes because a substantial portion of our cash flow is needed to pay principal and interest on our debt; |
| we are more vulnerable to competitive pressures and to general adverse economic or industry conditions, including fluctuations in market interest rates or a downturn in our business; |
| we may be placed at a competitive disadvantage relative to our competitors that have greater financial resources than us, including News America and its parent corporation; |
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| it may be more difficult for us to satisfy our financial obligations; and |
| there could be a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition if we were unable to service our debt or obtain additional financing, as needed. |
In addition, the indentures governing the notes and the 2033 Secured Notes and our senior secured credit facility contain financial and other restrictive covenants that limit our ability to engage in activities that may be in our long-term best interest. Our failure to comply with those covenants could result in an event of default which, if not cured or waived, could result in the acceleration of all of our debt. We cannot assure you that our assets or cash flow would be sufficient to fully repay such debt, if accelerated, or that we would be able to repay, refinance or restructure the payments on such debt. See The restrictive covenants in our senior secured credit facility and the indentures governing the notes and the 2033 Secured Notes and any of the agreements governing our future indebtedness could adversely restrict our financial and operating flexibility and subject us to other risks.
Despite our current indebtedness levels and the restrictive covenants set forth in the agreements governing our indebtedness, we and our subsidiaries may be able to incur substantially more indebtedness. This could increase the risks associated with our substantial indebtedness.
The terms of our senior secured credit facility and the indentures governing the notes and the 2033 Secured Notes permit us and our subsidiaries (including non-guarantor subsidiaries) to incur certain additional indebtedness, including additional secured indebtedness, and other liabilities that do not constitute indebtedness. If we or our subsidiaries are in compliance with the financial covenants set forth in these agreements, if any, we and our subsidiaries may be able to incur substantial additional indebtedness, including secured indebtedness. The indentures governing the notes and the 2033 Notes allow us to issue additional notes and other indebtedness in certain circumstances which may also be guaranteed by the guarantors and future domestic subsidiaries. In addition, under certain circumstances we will have the right to increase the size of our senior secured credit facility and incur additional secured indebtedness thereunder. As of March 31, 2011, we had $39.0 million available under the revolving line of credit portion of our senior secured credit facility after giving effect to outstanding letters of credit. If new indebtedness is added to our or our subsidiaries current indebtedness levels, the related risks that we and they now face could intensify.
We may not be able to generate a sufficient amount of cash flow to meet our debt obligations, including our obligations under the notes.
Our ability to make scheduled payments or to refinance our obligations with respect to the notes and our other indebtedness depends on our future financial and operating performance, which, in turn, will be subject to prevailing economic conditions and certain financial, business, competitive and other factors beyond our control. If we cannot make scheduled payments on our debt, we will be in default and, as a result, holders of our debt could declare all outstanding principal and interest on our debt to be due and payable and we could be forced into bankruptcy or liquidation. Certain of our subsidiaries may become unrestricted subsidiaries under the indenture governing the notes, in which case we may not have access to the cash flows of these subsidiaries and such subsidiaries will not be subject to the restrictive covenants under the indenture. If our cash flow and capital resources are insufficient to fund our debt obligations, we would face substantial liquidity problems and may be forced to reduce or delay scheduled expansions and capital expenditures, sell material assets or operations, obtain additional capital, restructure our debt or revise or delay our strategic plans. In addition, we cannot assure you that our operating performance, cash flow and capital resources will be sufficient for payment of our debt in the future. If we are required to take any of the actions referred to above, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. We cannot assure you that we would be able to take any of these actions on terms acceptable to us, or at all, that these actions would enable us to continue to satisfy our capital requirements or that these actions would be permitted under the terms of our various debt instruments. In addition, any refinancing of our debt could be at higher interest rates and may require us to comply with more onerous covenants, which could further restrict our business operations.
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Your right to receive payments on the notes is effectively subordinated to the rights of our existing and future secured creditors.
The notes and the related subsidiary guarantees are unsecured. Holders of our and our subsidiary guarantors existing and future secured indebtedness will have claims that are effectively senior to your claims as holders of the notes to the extent of the value of the assets securing our secured indebtedness. Our senior secured credit facility as well as our 2033 Secured Notes are secured by liens on substantially all of our and our subsidiaries assets and the notes will be effectively subordinated to such secured indebtedness. In the event of any distribution or payment of our or our subsidiaries assets in any foreclosure, dissolution, winding-up, liquidation, reorganization or other bankruptcy proceeding, holders of secured indebtedness will have prior claim to those assets that constitute their collateral. Holders of the notes will participate ratably with all holders of our unsecured indebtedness that is deemed to be of the same class as the notes, and potentially with all of our other general creditors, based upon the respective amounts owed to each holder or creditor, in our remaining assets. In any of the foregoing events, we may not have sufficient assets to pay amounts due on the notes. As a result, holders of notes may receive less, ratably, than holders of our secured indebtedness.
As of March 31, 2011, the aggregate amount of our secured indebtedness was $462.2 million. In addition, as of March 31, 2011, an additional $39.0 million was available under the revolving line of credit portion of our senior secured credit facility, after giving effect to the issuance of $11.0 million of letters of credit. We will be permitted to borrow additional indebtedness, including secured indebtedness, and our subsidiaries will be able to incur and guarantee additional secured indebtedness in the future under the terms of the indenture governing the notes. In addition, under certain circumstances we will have the right to increase the size of our senior secured credit facility and incur additional secured indebtedness thereunder. See Despite our current indebtedness levels and the restrictive covenants set forth in the agreements governing our indebtedness, we and our subsidiaries may be able to incur substantially more indebtedness. This could increase the risks associated with our substantial indebtedness.
The notes and the related subsidiary guarantees are also structurally subordinated in right of payment to our non-guarantor subsidiaries indebtedness. Your right to receive payments on the notes could be adversely affected if any of our non-guarantor subsidiaries declare bankruptcy, liquidate or reorganize.
Certain of our subsidiaries will not guarantee the notes. Our non-guarantor subsidiaries represented 0.9% and 2.8% of the consolidated operating income of our company and our subsidiaries for the year ended December 31, 2010 and the three months ended March 31, 2011, respectively. Because the creditors of our non-guarantor subsidiaries (including trade creditors) and holders of preferred stock, if any, have direct claims on such subsidiaries and their assets, your claims as holders of the notes are structurally subordinated to any existing and future liabilities of our non-guarantor subsidiaries. This means that the creditors of the non-guarantor subsidiaries have priority in their claims on the assets of such non-guarantor subsidiaries over our creditors. Accordingly, if a bankruptcy, liquidation or reorganization of any non-guarantor subsidiary occurs, holders of its indebtedness and its trade creditors will generally be entitled to payment of their claims from the assets of that subsidiary before any assets are made available for distribution to us. See Description of the Notes.
The restrictive covenants in our senior secured credit facility and the indentures governing the notes and the 2033 Secured Notes and any of the agreements governing our future indebtedness could adversely restrict our financial and operating flexibility and subject us to other risks.
Our senior secured credit facility and the indentures governing the notes and the 2033 Secured Notes contain affirmative and negative covenants that limit our and our subsidiaries ability to take certain actions. Our senior secured credit facility requires us to maintain specified financial ratios and satisfy other financial conditions. Our senior secured credit facility and the indentures governing the notes and the 2033 Secured Notes also restrict, among other things, our and our subsidiaries ability to:
| incur additional debt; |
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| pay dividends and make other restricted payments; |
| make certain investments, loans and advances; |
| create or permit certain liens; |
| issue or sell capital interests of restricted subsidiaries; |
| use the proceeds from sales of assets and subsidiary interests; |
| enter into certain types of transactions with affiliates; |
| create or permit restrictions on the ability of our restricted subsidiaries to pay dividends or make other distributions to us; |
| enter into sale and leaseback transactions; and |
| sell all or substantially all of our assets or consolidate or merge with or into other companies. |
These restrictions may limit our ability to operate our business and may prohibit or limit our ability to execute our business strategy, compete, enhance our operations, take advantage of potential business opportunities as they arise or meet our capital needs. Furthermore, future debt instruments or other contracts could contain financial or other covenants more restrictive than those applicable to our senior secured credit facility, the 2033 Secured Notes or the notes.
The breach of any of these covenants by us or the failure by us to meet any of these conditions or requirements could result in a default under any or all of such indebtedness. Our ability to continue to comply with these covenants and requirements may be affected by events beyond our control, including prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions. An event of default under our debt agreements could trigger events of default under our other debt agreements and the holders of the defaulted debt could declare all of the amounts outstanding thereunder, together with accrued interest, to become immediately due and payable. If such acceleration occurs, we would not be able to repay our debt and we may not be able to borrow sufficient funds to refinance our debt. Even if new financing is made available to us, it may not be on terms acceptable to us.
Some of our debt, including borrowings under our senior secured credit facility, is based on variable rates of interest, which could result in higher interest expense in the event of an increase in interest rates.
As of March 31, 2011, $462.1 million of our $722.2 million aggregate indebtedness was subject to variable interest rates. However, in December 2009, we entered into an interest rate swap agreement with an effective date of December 31, 2010, which effectively fixes the interest rate for an amortizing notional amount (initially $300.0 million) of this variable rate debt under our senior secured credit facility at an interest rate of 4.255% and expires on June 30, 2012. The initial notional amount of $300.0 million under the interest rate swap agreement amortizes by $40.0 million at the end of each quarter subsequent to the effective date to $100.0 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2012. Our remaining variable rate indebtedness, which was an aggregate principal amount of $202.2 million outstanding under the term loan B and delayed draw portions of our senior secured credit facility as of March 31, 2011 and will increase as a result of the amortization and expiration of the interest rate swap agreement described above, is subject to interest rate risk, as our interest payments will fluctuate as the underlying interest rate changes. If there is a 1% increase in 3-month LIBOR, the interest rate currently applicable to this variable rate debt, and we do not alter the terms of our current interest rate swap agreement or enter into a new interest rate swap agreement, our debt service obligations on our variable rate indebtedness would increase by a total of $11.2 million between January 1, 2011 and March 2, 2014, the maturity date of the term loans under the senior secured credit facility, which would affect our cash flows and results of operations. If we borrow additional amounts under the revolving loan portion of our senior secured credit facility, our interest rate risk may increase.
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We may not have sufficient funds or be permitted by our senior secured credit facility or other agreements governing our indebtedness to purchase the notes upon a change of control.
Upon a change of control, as defined in the indenture governing the notes, we will be required to make an offer to purchase all outstanding notes. The terms of the indenture governing our 2033 Secured Notes also require us to offer to purchase all outstanding 2033 Secured Notes upon a change of control. A change of control may be defined differently under the indenture governing the notes and our senior secured credit facility. A transaction that constitutes a change of control under our senior secured credit facility would not necessarily constitute a change of control under the indenture. Further, we cannot assure you that we will have or will be able to borrow sufficient funds at the time of any change of control to pay the change of control purchase price or that restrictions in our senior secured credit facility or other indebtedness we may incur in the future would permit us to make the required repurchases. Accordingly, the holders of the notes may not receive the change of control purchase price for their notes in the event of a sale or other change of control, which will give the trustee under the indenture governing the notes and the holders of the notes the right to declare an event of default and accelerate the repayment of the notes. In addition, a change of control may constitute an event of default under our senior secured credit facility, which could result in a default under the indentures governing the notes and the 2033 Secured Notes if the lenders accelerate the debt under our senior secured credit facility.
The change of control provisions in the indenture governing the notes may not protect you in the event we consummate a highly leveraged transaction, reorganization, restructuring, merger or other similar transaction, unless such transaction constitutes a change of control under the indenture. Such a transaction may not involve a change in voting power or beneficial ownership or, even if it does, may not involve a change in the magnitude required under the definition of change of control in the indenture to trigger our obligation to repurchase the notes. Except as otherwise described above, the indenture does not contain provisions that permit the holders of the notes to require us to repurchase or redeem the notes in the event of a takeover, recapitalization or similar transaction.
Federal and state statutes allow courts, under specific circumstances, to void guarantees and require noteholders to return payments received from subsidiary guarantors.
Under the federal bankruptcy laws and comparable provisions of state fraudulent transfer laws, a subsidiary guarantee could be voided, or claims in respect of a subsidiary guarantee could be subordinated to all other debts of that subsidiary guarantor if, among other things, the subsidiary guarantor, at the time it incurred the indebtedness evidenced by its subsidiary guarantee, (a) issued the guarantee with the intent of hindering, delaying or defrauding any current or future creditor or contemplated insolvency with a design to favor one or more creditors to the total or partial exclusion of other creditors or (b) received less than reasonably equivalent value or fair consideration for the incurrence of such guarantee, and if the subsidiary guarantor:
| was insolvent or rendered insolvent by reason of such incurrence; |
| was engaged in a business or transaction for which the subsidiary guarantors remaining assets constituted unreasonably small capital; or |
| intended to incur, or believed that it would incur, debts beyond its ability to pay such debts as they mature. |
If the subsidiary guarantee issued by that subsidiary guarantor were avoided or limited under fraudulent transfer or conveyance or other laws, any claim you make against such subsidiary guarantor for amounts payable on the notes would be effectively subordinated to all of the indebtedness and other obligations of such subsidiary guarantor, including trade payables and any subordinated indebtedness.
The measures of insolvency for purposes of these fraudulent transfer laws will vary depending upon the law applied in any proceeding to determine whether a fraudulent transfer has occurred. Generally, however, a subsidiary guarantor would be considered insolvent if:
| the sum of its debts, including contingent liabilities, was greater than the fair saleable value of all of its assets; |
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| if the present fair saleable value of its assets was less than the amount that would be required to pay its probable liability on its existing debts, including contingent liabilities, as they become absolute and mature; or |
| it could not pay its debts, including contingent liabilities, as they become due. |
We cannot be sure what standard a court would apply in making these determinations or, regardless of the standard, that a court would not void the subsidiary guarantees issued by our subsidiary guarantors or that such subsidiary guarantees would not be subordinated to the other indebtedness of our subsidiary guarantors.
Ratings of the notes may affect the market price and marketability of the notes.
The notes have been rated by Moodys Investors Service, Inc. and Standard & Poors Ratings Services, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. Such ratings are limited in scope, and do not address all material risks relating to an investment in the notes, but rather reflect only the view of each rating agency at the time the rating is issued. An explanation of the significance of such rating may be obtained from such rating agency. There is no assurance that such credit ratings will be issued or remain in effect for any given period of time or that such ratings will not be lowered, suspended or withdrawn entirely by the rating agencies, if, in each rating agencys judgment, circumstances so warrant. It is also possible that such ratings may be lowered in connection with future events, such as future acquisitions. Holders of notes will have no recourse against us or any other parties in the event of a change in or suspension or withdrawal of such ratings. Any lowering, suspension or withdrawal of such ratings may have an adverse effect on the market price or marketability of the notes.
If on any future date the notes have investment grade ratings, many of the restrictive covenants will be terminated.
lf on any future date the notes are rated at least BBB- (or the equivalent) by S&P and at least Baa3 (or the equivalent) by Moodys and certain other conditions are met, many of the restrictive covenants in the indenture governing the notes will be terminated and will not go back into effect at any time. We cannot assure you that the notes will ever be rated investment grade or that, if they are, that they will maintain such ratings. Termination of these covenants would allow us to engage in certain actions that would not be permitted while these covenants are in effect and any such actions that we take after the covenants are terminated will be permitted even if the notes subsequently fail to maintain investment grade ratings. See Description of the NotesCertain Covenants.
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The exchange offer is intended to satisfy our obligations under the registration rights agreement entered into in connection with the issuance of the original notes. We will not receive any cash proceeds from the issuance of the exchange notes in the exchange offer. In consideration for issuing the exchange notes as contemplated by this prospectus, we will receive the original notes in like principal amount. The original notes surrendered and exchanged for the exchange notes will be retired and canceled and cannot be reissued. Accordingly, the issuance of the exchange notes will not result in any increase in our indebtedness or capital stock.
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CONSOLIDATED RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES
Our consolidated ratio of earnings to fixed charges for each of the periods indicated is as follows:
Year Ended December 31, | Three
Months Ended March 31, |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2010 | 2011 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Ratio of earnings to fixed |
4.28x | 1.78x | | (2) | 2.15x | 9.54x | 24.36x | 3.88x |
(1) | The ratio of earnings to fixed charges was computed by dividing (a) earnings before fixed charges, income taxes and extraordinary items by (b) fixed charges, which consist of interest expense, amortization of debt issuance costs and the imputed interest portion of rent expense. |
(2) | Earnings for the year ended December 31, 2008 were inadequate to cover fixed chares by $215.8 million. |
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SELECTED HISTORICAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA
The selected historical consolidated financial information as of December 31, 2010 and 2009 and for each of the three fiscal years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2010 is derived from our audited historical consolidated financial statements incorporated by reference in this prospectus. The selected historical consolidated financial information as of December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006 and for each of the two fiscal years in the two-year period ended December 31, 2007 is derived from our audited historical consolidated financial statements not included or incorporated by reference into this prospectus. The selected income statement data for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010 and the selected balance sheet data as of March 31, 2011 and 2010 have been derived from our unaudited interim consolidated financial statements incorporated by reference in this prospectus. Our operating results for the three-months ended March 31, 2011 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for any future periods.
The following information should be read in conjunction with the information under the caption Risk Factors contained herein and incorporated by reference herein from our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010. The following information should also be read in conjunction with the information under the caption Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and our consolidated financial statements, both included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 and our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2011, each of which have been incorporated by reference in this prospectus.
Year Ended December 31, | Three Months Ended March 31, |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2010 | 2011 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(Dollars in thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Statement of Income Data: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Revenue: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shared Mail |
$ | | $ | 1,185,682 | $ | 1,370,756 | $ | 1,279,082 | $ | 1,307,234 | $ | 312,891 | $ | 322,552 | ||||||||||||||
Neighborhood Targeted |
431,978 | 480,548 | 469,236 | 444,746 | 479,868 | 99,817 | 90,131 | |||||||||||||||||||||
FSI |
441,196 | 401,207 | 370,249 | 361,414 | 367,638 | 97,515 | 89,194 | |||||||||||||||||||||
International, Digital Media & Services |
170,317 | 174,734 | 171,666 | 159,006 | 178,772 | 39,779 | 45,102 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Total revenue |
1,043,491 | 2,242,171 | 2,381,907 | 2,244,248 | 2,333,512 | 550,002 | 546,979 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Costs and expenses: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cost of products sold |
789,588 | 1,714,181 | 1,855,894 | 1,693,652 | 1,724,606 | 403,389 | 408,577 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Selling, general and administrative |
151,358 | 354,305 | 385,826 | 354,933 | 371,264 | 90,958 | 78,427 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Amortization expense |
556 | 7,915 | 9,223 | 12,624 | 12,624 | 3,156 | 3,156 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Impairment Charge |
| | 245,700 | | | | | |||||||||||||||||||||
Total costs and expenses |
941,502 | 2,076,401 | 2,496,643 | 2,061,209 | 2,108,494 | 497,503 | 490,160 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Gain from litigation settlement(1) |
| | | | 490,085 | 490,085 | | |||||||||||||||||||||
Earnings (loss) from operations |
101,989 | 165,770 | (114,736 | ) | 183,039 | 715,103 | 542,584 | 56,819 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Other expenses (income): |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest expense |
24,749 | 93,779 | 98,903 | 87,041 | 64,904 | 20,156 | 9,775 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Interest income |
(4766 | ) | (5,333 | ) | (2,913 | ) | (546 | ) | (653 | ) | (146 | ) | (139 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Loss (gain) on extinguishment of debt |
| | | (10,028 | ) | 23,873 | | 13,352 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Other (income) expense, net |
(1,532 | ) | (2,672 | ) | 5,111 | (4,371 | ) | (5,676 | ) | (1,790 | ) | (876 | ) | |||||||||||||||
Total other expenses, net |
18,451 | 85,774 | 101,101 | 72,096 | 82,448 | 18,220 | 22,112 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Earnings (loss) before income taxes |
83,538 | 79,996 | (215,837 | ) | 110,943 | 632,655 | 524,364 | 34,707 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Income tax expense (benefit) |
32,256 | 27,756 | (6,185 | ) | 44,175 | 247,250 | 201,836 | 13,296 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net earnings (loss) |
$ | 51,282 | $ | 52,240 | $ | (209,652 | ) | $ | 66,768 | 385,405 | $ | 322,528 | $ | 21,411 | ||||||||||||||
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Year Ended December 31, | Three Months Ended March 31, |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2010 | 2011 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(Dollars in thousands) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Selected Balance Sheet Data (at period end): |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents |
$ | 52,619 | $ | 125,239 | $ | 126,556 | $ | 129,846 | $ | 245,935 | $ | 633,006 | $ | 230,191 | ||||||||||||||
Working capital(2) |
127,653 | 74,517 | 91,792 | 12,324 | 58,381 | 45,925 | 82,121 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Total assets |
801,426 | 2,190,453 | 1,853,181 | 1,744,022 | 1,845,658 | 2,207,692 | 1,762,311 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Total debt |
259,931 | 1,310,540 | 1,202,567 | 1,011,072 | 706,227 | 1,009,303 | 722,238 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Total stockholders equity |
167,574 | 219,891 | 5,414 | 97,861 | 528,884 | 441,623 | 513,519 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Other Data: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net cash provided by operating activities |
$ | 49,806 | $ | 156,832 | $ | 96,257 | $ | 197,413 | $ | 463,326 | $ | 497,346 | $ | 17,966 | ||||||||||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities |
(50,556 | ) | (1,117,489 | ) | 12,069 | (19,008 | ) | (33,696 | ) | (3,785 | ) | (3,510 | ) | |||||||||||||||
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities |
(12,601 | ) | 1,031,363 | (107,979 | ) | (176,949 | ) | (313,609 | ) | 9,963 | (31,226 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
Depreciation and amortization |
14,930 | 62,507 | 69,368 | 67,848 | 61,446 | 15,520 | 15,729 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Capital expenditures |
(16,256 | ) | 30,545 | 24,659 | 19,104 | 26,678 | 3,821 | 5,024 |
(1) | On February 4, 2010, we executed a settlement agreement and release (the Settlement Agreement) with News America Incorporated, a/k/a News America Marketing Group, News America Marketing, and pursuant to the terms of the Settlement Agreement, News America paid us $500.0 million. During the first quarter of 2010, in connection with the successful settlement of these lawsuits, we made $9.9 million in related payments, including special bonuses to certain of our employees (including our named executive officers) in an aggregate amount of $8.1 million. These expenses were netted against the $500.0 million of proceeds received, and the net proceeds of $490.1 million have been recorded as a separate line item Gain from litigation settlement in our condensed consolidated statement of income for the quarter ended March 31, 2010. |
(2) | Working capital is defined as current assets, excluding cash and cash equivalents, minus current liabilities, excluding the current portion of long-term debt and, for the three months ended March 31, 2010, income taxes payable of $175.9 million related to the Settlement Agreement. |
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Valassis Communications, Inc. (the Company) issued the original notes, and will issue the exchange notes, as a single series of securities under an indenture (the Indenture), dated as of January 28, 2011, by and among the Company, the subsidiary guarantors named therein and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee. We sometimes refer to the original notes and the exchange notes in this section collectively as the Notes. The form and terms of the exchange notes are substantially identical in all material respects to the form and terms of the original notes, except that the exchange notes have been registered under the Securities Act and, therefore, will not be subject to transfer restrictions, will bear a different CUSIP number from the original notes and will not entitle their holders to registration rights or rights to earn additional interest under circumstances relating to our registration obligations. Unless specifically stated to the contrary, the following description applies equally to the exchange notes and the original notes. The terms of the Notes include those stated in the Indenture and those made part of the Indenture by reference to the Trust Indenture Act of 1939, as amended (the Trust Indenture Act). For purposes of this section of this prospectus, references to the Company, we, us, our or similar terms shall mean Valassis Communications, Inc., without its subsidiaries.
The statements under this caption relating to the Indenture and the Notes are summaries and are not a complete description thereof, and where reference is made to particular provisions, such provisions, including the definitions of certain terms, are qualified in their entirety by reference to all of the provisions of the Indenture and the Notes and those terms made part of the Indenture by the Trust Indenture Act. Because this is a summary, it may not contain all of the information that is important to you. You should read the Indenture in its entirety. The Indenture has been filed as an exhibit to the Companys Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on February 3, 2011 and is available as described under Incorporation by Reference; Where You Can Find More Information. The definitions of certain capitalized terms used in the following summary are set forth below under Certain Definitions. Unless otherwise indicated, references under this caption to Sections or Articles are references to sections and articles of the Indenture.
General
On January 28, 2011, the Company issued $260.0 million in aggregate principal amount of the original notes. The Company may issue additional notes (the Additional Notes) under the Indenture having identical terms and conditions to the Notes, subject to the limitations described below under the covenant Limitation on Incurrence of Debt. The Notes and any Additional Notes subsequently issued under the Indenture would be treated as a single class for all purposes of the Indenture, including, without limitation, waivers, amendments, redemptions and offers to purchase.
Principal, Maturity and Interest
The Notes will mature on February 1, 2021. Interest on the Notes will be payable at 6 5/8% per annum. Interest on the Notes is payable semiannually in cash in arrears on February 1 and August 1 of each year, commencing on August 1, 2011. The Company will make each interest payment to the Holders of record of the Notes on the immediately preceding January 15 and July 15. Interest on the Notes will accrue from the most recent date to which interest has been paid or, if no interest has been paid, from and including the Issue Date. Interest will be computed on the basis of a 360-day year comprised of twelve 30-day months.
Principal of and premium, if any, and interest on the Notes will be payable, and the Notes will be exchangeable and transferable, at the office or agency of the Company maintained for such purposes, which, initially, will be the corporate trust office of the Trustee located in Minneapolis, Minnesota; provided, however, that payment of interest may be made at the option of the Company by check mailed to the Person entitled thereto as shown on the security register or in accordance with the procedures of The Depository Trust Company (DTC) for global book-entry Notes. The Notes will be issued only in fully registered form without coupons, in
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denominations of $1,000 and integral multiples thereof. No service charge will be made for any registration of transfer, exchange or redemption of the Notes, except in certain circumstances for any tax or other governmental charge that may be imposed in connection therewith.
Guarantees
The Notes and any and all amounts due under the Indenture are guaranteed, on a full, joint and several basis, by the Guarantors pursuant to a guarantee (the Note Guarantees). Each of our Domestic Restricted Subsidiaries that guarantees our obligations under the Credit Agreement is a Guarantor. None of our Foreign Subsidiaries guarantee the Notes. The Note Guarantees are senior unsecured obligations of each Guarantor and rank equal with all existing and future senior unsecured Debt of such Guarantor and senior to all subordinated Debt of such Guarantor. The Note Guarantees are effectively subordinated to any secured Debt of such Guarantor to the extent of the assets securing such Debt. The Indenture provides that the obligations of a Guarantor under its Note Guarantee are limited to the maximum amount as will result in the obligations of such Guarantor under the Note Guarantee not to be deemed to constitute a fraudulent conveyance or fraudulent transfer under federal or state law. See Risk FactorsRisks Related to the NotesFederal and state statutes allow courts, under specific circumstances, to void guarantees and require noteholders to return payments received from subsidiary guarantors.
As of March 31, 2011, all of our Subsidiaries were Restricted Subsidiaries. However, under the circumstances described below under the subheading Certain CovenantsLimitation on Creation of Unrestricted Subsidiaries, any of our Subsidiaries may be designated as Unrestricted Subsidiaries. Unrestricted Subsidiaries will not be subject to many of the restrictive covenants in the Indenture and will not guarantee the Notes. Claims of creditors of non-guarantor Subsidiaries, including trade creditors, secured creditors and creditors holding Debt and guarantees issued by those Subsidiaries, and claims of preferred stockholders (if any) of those Subsidiaries, generally will have priority with respect to the assets and earnings of those Subsidiaries over the claims of creditors of the Company, including Holders of the Notes.
The Indenture provides that in the event of a sale or other transfer or disposition of all of the Capital Interests in any Guarantor to any Person that is not an Affiliate of the Company in compliance with the terms of the Indenture, or in the event all or substantially all the assets or Capital Interests of a Guarantor are sold or otherwise transferred, by way of merger, consolidation or otherwise, to a Person that is not an Affiliate of the Company in compliance with the terms of the Indenture, then such Guarantor (or the Person concurrently acquiring such assets of such Guarantor) shall be deemed automatically and unconditionally released and discharged of any obligations under its Note Guarantee in support thereof, as evidenced by a supplemental indenture executed by the Company, the Guarantors and the Trustee, without any further action on the part of the Trustee or any Holder.
Not all of our Subsidiaries guarantee the Notes. Our non-guarantor subsidiaries represented 0.9% and 2.8% of the consolidated operating income of the Company and its Subsidiaries for the year ended December 31, 2010 and the three months ended March 31, 2011, respectively.
Ranking
Ranking of the Notes
The Notes are general unsecured obligations of the Company. As a result, the Notes:
| rank equally in right of payment with all existing and future unsecured senior Debt of the Company; |
| are effectively subordinated to all existing and future secured Debt of the Company to the extent of the value of the assets securing such Debt; |
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| are structurally subordinated to all existing and future Debt and other liabilities, including trade payables, of the Companys non-Guarantor Subsidiaries (other than any Debt owed to the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary, if any, by such non-Guarantor Subsidiaries), including the Companys Foreign Subsidiaries and any Unrestricted Subsidiaries; and |
| rank senior in right of payment to all of the Companys existing and future Debt that is by its terms expressly subordinated to the Notes. |
As of March 31, 2011, the Company and its Subsidiaries had total Debt of approximately $722.2 million, $462.2 million of which is senior Debt. In addition, as of March 31, 2011, the Company and its Subsidiaries had approximately $39.0 million of senior secured Debt available under the revolving line of credit portion of the Credit Agreement (after giving effect to the issuance of $11.0 million of letters of credit).
Ranking of the Note Guarantees
Each Note Guarantee is a general unsecured obligation of each Guarantor. As such, each Note Guarantee:
| ranks equally in right of payment with all existing and future senior Debt of the Guarantors; |
| is effectively subordinated to all secured Debt of such Guarantors to the extent of the value of the Guarantors assets securing such Debt; and |
| ranks senior in right of payment to all existing and future Debt of the Guarantors, if any, that is by its terms expressly subordinated to such Guarantors Note Guarantee. |
Sinking Fund
There are no mandatory sinking fund payment obligations with respect to the Notes.
Optional Redemption
The Notes may be redeemed, in whole or in part, at any time prior to February 1, 2016, at the option of the Company upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days prior notice mailed by first-class mail to each Holders registered address or sent in accordance with the procedures of DTC for global book-entry Notes, at a Redemption Price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Notes to be redeemed plus the Applicable Premium as of, and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to, but not including, the applicable redemption date (subject to the right of holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date).
In addition, the Notes are subject to redemption, at the option of the Company, in whole or in part, at any time on or after February 1, 2016, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days notice at the following Redemption Prices (expressed as percentages of the principal amount to be redeemed) set forth below, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to, but not including, the redemption date (subject to the right of Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on an interest payment date that is on or prior to the redemption date), if redeemed during the 12-month period beginning on February 1 of the years indicated:
Year |
Redemption Price | |||
2016 |
103.313 | % | ||
2017 |
102.208 | % | ||
2018 |
101.104 | % | ||
2019 and thereafter |
100.000 | % |
In addition to the optional redemption provisions of the Notes described in the two preceding paragraphs, on or prior to February 1, 2014, the Company may, at its option, with the net proceeds of one or more Qualified
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Equity Offerings, redeem up to 35% of the aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Notes (including Additional Notes) at a Redemption Price equal to 106.625% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon, if any, to, but not including, the date of redemption; provided that at least 65% of the aggregate principal amount of Notes originally issued under the Indenture (including Additional Notes) remains outstanding immediately after the occurrence of any such redemption (excluding Notes held by the Company or its Subsidiaries) and that any such redemption occurs within 120 days following the closing of any such Qualified Equity Offering. Notice of any redemption using the proceeds of a Qualified Equity Offering may, at the Companys direction, be subject to one or more conditions precedent, including completion of the related Qualified Equity Offering.
If less than all of the Notes are to be redeemed, the Trustee will select the Notes or portions thereof to be redeemed by lot, pro rata or by any other method customarily authorized by the clearing systems (subject to DTC procedures).
No Notes of principal amount of $1,000 or less shall be redeemed in part and no redemption shall result in a Holder holding a Note of less than $1,000 in principal amount. Notices of redemption shall be sent to DTC, in the case of Notes issued in global book-entry form, or shall be mailed by first class mail, in the case of certificated Notes (and, to the extent permitted by applicable procedures or regulations, electronically) at least 30 days before the redemption date to each Holder of Notes to be redeemed at its registered address. If any Note is to be redeemed in part only, the notice of redemption that relates to that Note shall state the portion of the principal amount thereof to be redeemed. In the case of certificated Notes, a new Note in principal amount equal to the unredeemed portion of the original Note will be issued in the name of the Holder thereof upon cancellation of the original Note. Notes called for redemption become due on the date fixed for redemption. In the case of global Notes issued in book-entry form, the outstanding balance of any such global Note shall be adjusted by the Trustee to reflect such redemption. On and after the redemption date, interest will cease to accrue on Notes or portions of them called for redemption.
The Company or any of its Subsidiaries may at any time, and from time to time, purchase Notes in the open market or otherwise, at different market prices, subject to compliance with applicable securities laws and its Debt documents.
Repurchase at the Option of Holders
Change of Control
The Notes provide that if a Change of Control occurs, unless the Company has previously or concurrently mailed a redemption notice with respect to all the outstanding Notes as described above under the caption Optional Redemption, the Company will make a written offer to purchase all of the Notes pursuant to the offer described below (the Change of Control Offer) at a Change of Control Purchase Price in cash equal to 101% of the aggregate principal amount thereof plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of purchase, subject to the right of Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date. The Change of Control Offer will be sent by the Company, in the case of global book-entry Notes, through the facilities of DTC, and, in the case of certificated Notes, by first class mail, postage prepaid, to each Holder at his address appearing in the security register on the date of the Change of Control Offer, offering to purchase up to the aggregate principal amount of Notes set forth in such Change of Control Offer at the purchase price set forth in such Change of Control Offer (as determined pursuant to the Indenture). Unless otherwise required by applicable law, the Change of Control Offer shall specify an expiration date (the Change of Control Expiration Date) which shall be, subject to any contrary requirements of applicable law, not less than 30 days or more than 60 days after the date of mailing of such Change of Control Offer and a settlement date (the Change of Control Payment Date) for purchase of Notes within five business days after the Change of Control Expiration Date. The Company shall notify the Trustee at least 15 days (or such shorter period as is acceptable to the Trustee), in the case of global book-entry Notes, through the facilities of the DTC, and, in the case of certificated Notes, prior to the mailing of the Change of Control Offer of the Companys obligation to make a
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Change of Control Offer, and the Change of Control Offer shall be mailed by the Company or, at the Companys request, by the Trustee in the name and at the expense of the Company. The Change of Control Offer shall contain all instructions and materials necessary to enable such Holders to tender Notes pursuant to the Change of Control Offer. The Change of Control Offer shall also state:
(a) the section of the Indenture pursuant to which the Change of Control Offer is being made;
(b) the Change of Control Expiration Date and the Change of Control Payment Date;
(c) the aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Notes offered to be purchased pursuant to the Change of Control Offer (the Change of Control Purchase Amount);
(d) the purchase price to be paid by the Company for each $1,000 principal amount of Notes accepted for payment (as specified pursuant to the Indenture) (the Change of Control Purchase Price);
(e) that the Holder may tender all or any portion of the Notes registered in the name of such Holder and that any portion of a Note tendered must be tendered in a minimum amount of $1,000 principal amount (and integral multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof);
(f) the place or places where Notes are to be surrendered for tender pursuant to the Change of Control Offer, if applicable;
(g) that, unless the Company defaults in making such purchase, any Note accepted for purchase pursuant to the Change of Control Offer will cease to accrue interest on and after the Change of Control Payment Date, but that any Note not tendered or tendered but not purchased by the Company pursuant to the Change of Control Offer will continue to accrue interest at the same rate;
(h) that, on the Change of Control Payment Date, the Change of Control Purchase Price will become due and payable upon each Note accepted for payment pursuant to the Change of Control Offer;
(i) that each Holder electing to tender a Note pursuant to the Change of Control Offer will be required to surrender such Note or cause such Note to be surrendered at the place or places set forth in the Change of Control Offer prior to the close of business on the Change of Control Expiration Date (such Note being, if the Company or the Trustee so requires, duly endorsed by, or accompanied by a written instrument of transfer in form satisfactory to the Company and the Trustee duly executed by, the Holder thereof or his attorney duly authorized in writing);
(j) that Holders will be entitled to withdraw all or any portion of Notes tendered if the Company (or its paying agent) receives, not later than the close of business on the Change of Control Expiration Date, a facsimile transmission or letter setting forth the name of the Holder, the aggregate principal amount of the Notes the Holder tendered, the certificate numbers of the Notes the Holder tendered and a statement that such Holder is withdrawing all or a portion of his tender;
(k) that if Notes having an aggregate principal amount less than or equal to the Change of Control Purchase Amount are duly tendered and not withdrawn pursuant to the Change of Control Offer, the Company shall purchase all such Notes; and
(l) if applicable, that, in the case of any Holder whose Note is purchased only in part, the Company shall execute, and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver to the Holder of such Note without service charge, a new Note or Notes, of any authorized denomination as requested by such Holder, in the aggregate principal amount equal to and in exchange for the unpurchased portion of the aggregate principal amount of the Notes so tendered.
A Change of Control Offer shall be deemed to have been made by the Company with respect to the Notes if (i) within 60 days following the date of the consummation of a transaction or series of transactions that constitutes a Change of Control, the Company commences a Change of Control Offer for all outstanding Notes at the Change of Control Purchase Price (provided that the running of such 60-day period shall be suspended, for up to a maximum of 30 days, during any period when the commencement of such Change of Control Offer is
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delayed or suspended by reason of any courts or governmental authoritys review of or ruling on any materials being employed by the Company to effect such Change of Control Offer, so long as the Company has used and continues to use its commercially reasonable efforts to make and conclude such Change of Control Offer promptly) and (ii) all Notes properly tendered pursuant to the Change of Control Offer are purchased on the terms of such Change of Control Offer.
The phrase all or substantially all, as used in the definition of Change of Control, has not been interpreted under New York law (which is the governing law of the Indenture) to represent a specific quantitative test. As a consequence, in the event the Holders of the Notes elected to exercise their rights under the Indenture and the Company elects to contest such election, there could be no assurance how a court interpreting New York law would interpret such phrase. As a result, it may be unclear as to whether a Change of Control has occurred with respect to the Notes and whether a Holder of Notes may require the Company to make a Change of Control Offer with respect to the Notes as described above.
The provisions of the Indenture may not afford Holders protection in the event of a highly leveraged transaction, reorganization, restructuring, merger or similar transaction affecting the Company that may adversely affect Holders, if such transaction is not the type of transaction included within the definition of Change of Control. A transaction involving the management of the Company or its Affiliates, or a transaction involving a recapitalization of the Company, will result in a Change of Control only if it is the type of transaction specified in such definition. The definition of Change of Control with respect the Notes may be amended or modified with the written consent of a majority in aggregate principal amount of outstanding Notes. See Amendment, Supplement and Waiver.
The Company will comply with the requirements of Rule 14e-1 under the Exchange Act and any other securities laws and regulations thereunder to the extent such laws or regulations are applicable in connection with the repurchase of the Notes pursuant to a Change of Control Offer. To the extent that the provisions of any securities laws or regulations conflict with the provisions of the Indenture, the Company will comply with the applicable securities laws and regulations and shall not be deemed to have breached its obligations described in the Indenture by virtue thereof.
The Company will not be required to make a Change of Control Offer with respect to the Notes upon a Change of Control if (i) a third party makes such Change of Control Offer contemporaneously with or upon a Change of Control in the manner, at the times and otherwise in compliance with the requirements of the Indenture and purchases all Notes validly tendered and not withdrawn under such Change of Control Offer or (ii) a notice of redemption has been given pursuant to the Indenture as described above under the caption Optional Redemption.
The Companys ability to pay cash to the Holders of Notes upon a Change of Control may be limited by the Companys then existing financial resources. Further, the agreements governing the Companys other Debt contain, and future agreements of the Company may contain, prohibitions of certain events, including events that would constitute a Change of Control. If the exercise by the Holders of Notes of their right to require the Company to repurchase the Notes upon a Change of Control occurred at the same time as a change of control event under one or more of the Companys other Debt agreements, the Companys ability to pay cash to the Holders of Notes upon a repurchase may be further limited by the Companys then existing financial resources. See Risk FactorsRisks Related to the Notes and our Other IndebtednessWe may not have sufficient funds or be permitted by our senior secured credit facility or other agreements governing out indebtedness to purchase the notes upon a change of control.
Even if sufficient funds were otherwise available, the terms of Credit Facilities (and other Debt) may prohibit the Companys prepayment of Notes before their scheduled maturity. The Credit Agreement provides that certain change of control events with respect to the Company would constitute a default thereunder. A default under the Credit Agreement would result in a default under the Indenture if the lenders accelerate the
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Debt under the Credit Agreement. Any future credit agreements or other agreements relating to Debt to which the Company becomes a party may contain similar restrictions and provisions. If a Change of Control occurs at a time when the Company is prohibited from purchasing the Notes under the Credit Agreement, the Company will be obligated to seek the consent of the lenders under the Credit Agreement to make and consummate a Change of Control Offer or refinance the Debt under the Credit Agreement. If the Company does not obtain such consent or refinance such indebtedness, the Company will remain prohibited from making and consummating a Change of Control Offer. In such case, the Companys failure to make and consummate a Change of Control Offer would constitute an event of default under the Indenture, which would, in turn, constitute a default under the Credit Agreement.
In addition, a Change of Control Offer may be made in advance of a Change of Control, conditional upon such Change of Control, if a definitive agreement is in place for the Change of Control at the time of launching the Change of Control Offer.
Asset Sales
The Company will not, and will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, consummate, directly or indirectly, an Asset Sale, unless:
(a) the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be, receives consideration at the time of such Asset Sale at least equal to the Fair Market Value of the assets sold or otherwise disposed of; and
(b) except in the case of a Permitted Asset Swap, at least 75% of the consideration therefor received by the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary, as the case may be, is in the form of cash or Eligible Cash Equivalents; provided that the amount of
(1) any liabilities (as reflected in the Companys or such Restricted Subsidiarys most recent balance sheet or in the footnotes thereto, or if Incurred or accrued subsequent to the date of such balance sheet, such liabilities that would have been shown on the Companys or such Restricted Subsidiarys balance sheet or in the footnotes thereto if such Incurrence or accrual have taken place on the date of such balance sheet, as determined by the Company) of the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary, other than liabilities that are by their terms subordinated to the Notes, that are assumed by the transferee of any such assets and for which the Company and all of its Restricted Subsidiaries have been validly released by all creditors in writing,
(2) any securities, notes or other obligations or assets received by the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary from such transferee that are converted by the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary into cash or Eligible Cash Equivalents (to the extent of the cash or Eligible Cash Equivalents received) within 180 days following the closing of such Asset Sale, and
(3) any Designated Non-cash Consideration received by the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary in such Asset Sale having an aggregate Fair Market Value, taken together with all other Designated Non-cash Consideration received pursuant to this clause (3) that is at that time outstanding, no greater than the greater of (i) 3% of Total Assets at the time of the receipt of such Designated Non-cash Consideration and (ii) $60 million, with the Fair Market Value of each item of Designated Non-cash Consideration being measured at the time received and without giving effect to subsequent changes in value,
shall be deemed to be cash for purposes of this provision and for no other purpose.
Within 365 days after the receipt of any Net Proceeds of any Asset Sale, the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary, at its option, may apply the Net Proceeds from such Asset Sale,
(a) to permanently reduce:
(1) obligations under Credit Facilities, or under any other senior Debt which is secured Debt permitted by the Indenture (and, to the extent the obligations being reduced constitute revolving credit
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obligations, to correspondingly reduce commitments with respect thereto; provided, that such commitments shall not be required to be reduced below $200 million); or
(2) Debt of a Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Guarantor, other than Debt owed to the Company or another Restricted Subsidiary (or any affiliate thereof);
(b) to make any combination of (1) an Investment in any one or more businesses, provided that if such business is not a Restricted Subsidiary such Investment is in the form of the acquisition of Capital Interests and results in the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries, as the case may be, owning an amount of the Capital Interests of such business such that it constitutes a Restricted Subsidiary, (2) an Investment in properties, (3) capital expenditures or (4) acquisitions of other assets, in each of (1) through (4), that are used or useful in a Similar Business or replace the businesses, properties and/or assets that are the subject of such Asset Sale; provided that, in the case of this clause (b), a binding commitment shall be treated as a permitted application of the Net Proceeds from the date of such commitment so long as the Company, or such other Restricted Subsidiary enters into such commitment with the good faith expectation that such Net Proceeds will be applied to satisfy such commitment within 180 days of such commitment (an Acceptable Commitment); provided further, that if any Acceptable Commitment is later cancelled or terminated for any reason before such Net Proceeds are applied, then, to the extent the 365-day period referred to in the first sentence of this paragraph has lapsed, such Net Proceeds shall constitute Excess Proceeds (as defined below); or
(c) a combination of prepayment and investment permitted by the foregoing clauses (a) and (b).
Any Net Proceeds from Asset Sales that are not invested or applied as provided and within the time period set forth in the first sentence of the second preceding paragraph will be deemed to constitute Excess Proceeds. When the aggregate amount of Excess Proceeds exceeds $30 million, the Company shall make an offer to all Holders of the Notes, and, if required or permitted by the terms of any senior Debt, to the holders of such senior Debt (an Asset Sale Offer), to purchase the maximum aggregate principal amount of the Notes and such senior Debt that is a minimum of $1,000 or an integral multiple of $1,000 in excess thereof that may be purchased out of the Excess Proceeds at an offer price in cash in an amount equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date fixed for the closing of such offer, in accordance with the procedures set forth in the Indenture. The Company will commence an Asset Sale Offer with respect to Excess Proceeds within 25 days after the date that Excess Proceeds exceed $30 million by mailing the notice required pursuant to the terms of the Indenture, with a copy to the Trustee.
To the extent that the aggregate amount of Notes and any other senior Debt tendered pursuant to an Asset Sale Offer is less than the Excess Proceeds, the Company may use any remaining Excess Proceeds for general corporate purposes, subject to other covenants contained in the Indenture. If the aggregate principal amount of Notes or the senior Debt surrendered by such holders thereof exceeds the amount of Excess Proceeds, the Trustee shall select the Notes and the agent for such other senior Debt, as applicable, shall select such other senior Debt to be purchased by lot, pro rata or by any other method customarily authorized by clearing systems (so long as authorized denomination results therefrom) based on the accreted value or principal amount of the Notes or such other senior Debt tendered. Upon completion of any such Asset Sale Offer, the amount of Excess Proceeds shall be reset at zero. Additionally, the Company may, at its option, make an Asset Sale Offer using proceeds from any Asset Sale at any time after consummation of such Asset Sale; provided that such Asset Sale Offer shall be in an aggregate amount of not less than $10 million. Upon consummation of such Asset Sale Offer, any Net Proceeds not required to be used to purchase Notes or such other senior Debt shall not be deemed Excess Proceeds.
Pending the final application of any Net Proceeds pursuant to this covenant, the holder of such Net Proceeds may apply such Net Proceeds temporarily to reduce Debt outstanding under a revolving credit facility or otherwise invest such Net Proceeds in any manner not prohibited by the Indenture.
The Company will comply with the requirements of Rule 14e-1 under the Exchange Act and any other securities laws and regulations thereunder to the extent such laws or regulations are applicable in connection with
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the repurchase of the Notes pursuant to an Asset Sale Offer. To the extent that the provisions of any securities laws or regulations conflict with the provisions of the Indenture, the Company will comply with the applicable securities laws and regulations and shall not be deemed to have breached its obligations described in the Indenture by virtue thereof.
Certain Covenants
Set forth below are summaries of certain covenants contained in the Indenture. If on any date following the Issue Date (i) the Notes have Investment Grade Ratings from both Rating Agencies, and (ii) no Default has occurred and is continuing under the Indenture (the occurrence of the events described in the foregoing clauses (i) and (ii) being collectively referred to as a Covenant Termination Event), then commencing on such date and at all times thereafter regardless of any subsequent change in the rating of the Notes the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries will not be subject to the following covenants (collectively, the Terminated Covenants):
(1) Limitation on Incurrence of Debt;
(2) Limitation on Restricted Payments;
(3) Limitation on Dividend and Other Payment Restrictions Affecting Restricted Subsidiaries;
(4) Limitation on Transactions with Affiliates;
(5) Limitation on Creation of Unrestricted Subsidiaries; and
(6) Repurchase at the Option of HoldersAsset Sales.
There can be no assurance that the Notes will ever achieve or maintain Investment Grade Ratings.
Limitation on Incurrence of Debt
The Company will not, and will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, Incur any Debt (including Acquired Debt); provided that the Company and any Restricted Subsidiary may Incur Debt (including Acquired Debt) if, immediately after giving effect to the Incurrence of such Debt and the receipt and application of the proceeds therefrom, (a) the Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries, determined on a pro forma basis as if any such Debt (including any other Debt being Incurred contemporaneously), and any other Debt Incurred since the beginning of the Four Quarter Period had been Incurred and the proceeds thereof had been applied at the beginning of the Four Quarter Period, and any other Debt repaid since the beginning of the Four Quarter Period had been repaid at the beginning of the Four Quarter Period, would be greater than 2.0:1.0 and (b) no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing at the time or as a consequence of the Incurrence of such Debt.
If, during the Four Quarter Period or subsequent thereto and prior to the date of determination, the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries shall have engaged in any Asset Sale or Asset Acquisition, Investments, mergers, consolidations, discontinued operations (as determined in accordance with GAAP) or shall have designated any Restricted Subsidiary to be an Unrestricted Subsidiary or any Unrestricted Subsidiary to be a Restricted Subsidiary, Consolidated Cash Flow Available for Fixed Charges and Consolidated Interest Expense for the Four Quarter Period shall be calculated on a pro forma basis giving effect to such Asset Sale or Asset Acquisition, Investments, mergers, consolidations, discontinued operations or designation, as the case may be, and the application of any proceeds therefrom as if such Asset Sale or Asset Acquisition or designation had occurred on the first day of the Four Quarter Period.
If the Debt which is the subject of a determination under this provision is Acquired Debt, or Debt Incurred in connection with the simultaneous acquisition of any Person, business, property or assets, or Debt of an Unrestricted Subsidiary being designated as a Restricted Subsidiary, then such ratio shall be determined by giving effect (on a pro forma basis, as if the transaction had occurred at the beginning of the Four Quarter Period)
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to (x) the Incurrence of such Acquired Debt or such other Debt by the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries and (y) the inclusion, in Consolidated Cash Flow Available for Fixed Charges, of the Consolidated Cash Flow Available for Fixed Charges of the acquired Person, business, property or assets or redesignated Subsidiary.
Notwithstanding the first paragraph above, the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries may Incur Permitted Debt.
For purposes of determining any particular amount of Debt under this Limitation on Incurrence of Debt covenant, (x) Debt Incurred and outstanding under the Credit Agreement on the Issue Date shall at all times be treated as Incurred pursuant to clause (i) of the definition of Permitted Debt, and (y) Guarantees or obligations with respect to letters of credit supporting Debt otherwise included in the determination of such particular amount shall not be included. For purposes of determining compliance with this Limitation on Incurrence of Debt covenant, in the event that an item of Debt meets the criteria of more than one of the types of Debt described above, including categories of Permitted Debt and under part (a) in the first paragraph of this Limitation on Incurrence of Debt covenant, the Company, in its sole discretion, may classify, and from time to time may reclassify, all or any portion of such item of Debt in any manner such that the item of Debt would be permitted to be incurred at the time of such classification or reclassification, as applicable.
The accrual of interest, the accretion or amortization of original issue discount and the payment of interest on Debt in the form of additional Debt or payment of dividends on Capital Interests in the forms of additional shares of Capital Interests with the same terms will not be deemed to be an Incurrence of Debt or issuance of Capital Interests for purposes of this covenant.
For purposes of determining compliance with any U.S. dollar-denominated restriction on the incurrence of Debt, the U.S. dollar-equivalent principal amount of Debt denominated in a foreign currency shall be utilized, calculated based on the relevant currency exchange rate in effect on the date such Debt was incurred. Notwithstanding any other provision of this covenant, the maximum amount of Debt that the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary may incur pursuant to this covenant shall not be deemed to be exceeded solely as a result of fluctuations in exchange rates or currency values.
The Company and any Guarantor will not Incur any Debt that pursuant to its terms is subordinate or junior in right of payment to any Debt of the Company or such Guarantor unless such Debt is also subordinated in right of payment to the Notes or the Note Guarantees to the same extent; provided that Debt will not be considered subordinate or junior in right of payment to any other Debt solely by virtue of being unsecured or secured to a greater or lesser extent or with greater or lower priority or by virtue of structural subordination.
Limitation on Restricted Payments
The Company will not, and will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, make any Restricted Payment unless, at the time of and after giving effect to the proposed Restricted Payment:
(a) no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing;
(b) after giving effect to such Restricted Payment on a pro forma basis, the Company would be permitted to Incur at least $1.00 of additional Debt (other than Permitted Debt) pursuant to the provisions described in the first paragraph under the Limitation on Incurrence of Debt covenant; and
(c) after giving effect to such Restricted Payment on a pro forma basis, the aggregate amount expended or declared for all Restricted Payments made on or after the Issue Date (excluding Restricted Payments permitted by clauses (ii), (iii), (iv), (v), (vi) (vii), (viii), (x), (xi), (xii), (xiii) and (xiv) of the next succeeding paragraph) shall not exceed the sum (without duplication) of
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(1) 50% of the Consolidated Net Income (or, if Consolidated Net Income shall be a deficit, minus 100% of such deficit) of the Company accrued on a cumulative basis during the period (taken as one accounting period) from the beginning of the first full fiscal quarter during which the Issue Date occurs and ending on the last day of the fiscal quarter for which internal financial statements are available at the time of such proposed Restricted Payment, plus
(2) 100% of the aggregate net proceeds (including the Fair Market Value of property other than cash) received by the Company subsequent to the Issue Date either (i) as a contribution to its common equity capital or (ii) from the issuance and sale (other than to a Subsidiary) of its Qualified Capital Interests, including Qualified Capital Interests issued upon the conversion of Debt or Redeemable Capital Interests of the Company, and from the exercise of options, warrants or other rights to purchase such Qualified Capital Interests (other than, in each case, Capital Interests or Debt sold to a Subsidiary of the Company), plus
(3) 100% of the net reduction in Investments (other than Permitted Investments), subsequent to the Issue Date, in any Person, resulting from (i) payments of interest on Debt, dividends, repayments of loans or advances, or any sale or disposition of such Investments (but only to the extent such items are not included in the calculation of Consolidated Net Income), in each case to the Company or any Subsidiary from any Person, or (ii) the redesignation of an Unrestricted Subsidiary as a Restricted Subsidiary, not to exceed in the case of any Person the amount of Investments previously made by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary in such Person subsequent to the Issue Date.
Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions, the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries may take the following actions, provided that, in the case of clauses (iv) and (x), immediately after giving effect to such action, no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing:
(i) the payment of any dividend on Capital Interests in the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary or the consummation or any irrevocable redemption within 90 days after declaration of such dividend or the giving of the redemption notice, as the case may be, if at such date payment was permitted by the foregoing provisions of this covenant;
(ii) the purchase, repurchase, redemption, defeasance, acquisition or retirement of any Capital Interests of the Company by conversion into, or by or in exchange for, Qualified Capital Interests, or out of net cash proceeds of the substantially concurrent sale (other than to a Restricted Subsidiary of the Company) of Qualified Capital Interests of the Company;
(iii) the purchase, repurchase, redemption, defeasance, acquisition or retirement for value of any Debt of the Company or a Guarantor that is subordinate in right of payment to the Notes or the applicable Note Guarantee by conversion into, or by or in exchange for, or out of the net cash proceeds of a substantially concurrent issue and sale (other than to a Subsidiary of the Company) of (x) new subordinated Debt of the Company or such Guarantor, as the case may be, Incurred in accordance with the Indenture or (y) Qualified Capital Interests of the Company;
(iv) the purchase, redemption, retirement or other acquisition for value of Capital Interests in the Company held by directors, former directors, employees or former employees of the Company or any Subsidiary (or their estates or beneficiaries under their estates) upon death, disability, retirement or termination of employment or of their seat on the board of directors of the Company or alteration of employment status or pursuant to the terms of any agreement under which such Capital Interests were issued; provided that the aggregate cash consideration paid for such purchase, redemption, retirement or other acquisition of such Capital Interests does not exceed $7.5 million in any calendar year; provided, however, that such amount in any calendar year may be increased by an amount not to exceed (A) the cash proceeds received by the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries from the sale of Qualified Capital Interests of the Company to employees of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries that occurs after the Issue Date; provided, however, that the amount of such cash proceeds utilized for any such repurchase, retirement, other acquisition or dividend will not increase the amount available for Restricted Payments
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under clause (c) of the first paragraph of this covenant; plus (B) the cash proceeds of key man life insurance policies received by the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries after the Issue Date (provided, however, that the Company may elect to apply all or any portion of the aggregate increase contemplated by the proviso of this clause (iv) in any calendar year and, to the extent any payment described under this clause (iv) is made by delivery of Debt and not in cash, such payment shall be deemed to occur only when, and to the extent, the obligor on such Debt makes payments with respect to such Debt);
(v) the repurchase of Capital Interests deemed to occur upon (A) (i) the exercise of stock options, warrants or other convertible or exchangeable securities or (ii) the grant, award, vesting or distribution to employees or directors of Capital Interests, in each case, if such Capital Interests represent all or a portion of the exercise price thereof or (B) the withholding of a portion of such Capital Interests to pay for the taxes payable by such Person on account of such grant or award;
(vi) the extension of credit that constitutes intercompany Debt, the Incurrence of which was permitted pursuant to the covenant described under Limitation on Incurrence of Debt;
(vii) cash payment, in lieu of issuance of fractional shares in connection with the exercise of warrants, options, equity derivatives or other securities convertible into or exchangeable for the Capital Interests of the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary or in connection with any merger, consolidation, amalgamation or other combination involving the Company;
(viii) the declaration and payment of dividends to holders of any class or series of Redeemable Capital Interests of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary issued or Incurred in compliance with the covenant described above under Limitation on Incurrence of Debt to the extent such dividends are included in the definition of Consolidated Fixed Charges;
(ix) the repurchase, redemption, defeasance or other acquisition or retirement for value of any subordinated Debt in accordance with provisions substantially similar to those described under the captions Repurchase at the Option of HoldersChange of Control and Repurchase at the Option of HoldersAsset Sales; provided that all Notes tendered by Holders in connection with a Change of Control Offer or Asset Sale Offer, as applicable, have been repurchased, redeemed or acquired for value;
(x) the making of any Restricted Payments if, at the time of the making of such payments, and after giving effect thereto (including, without limitation, the Incurrence of any Debt to finance such payment), the Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio would not exceed 3.00 to 1.00;
(xi) payments or distributions to stockholders of the Company pursuant to appraisal rights required under applicable law in connection with any consolidation, merger or transfer of assets that complies with the covenant described under the caption Consolidation, Merger, Conveyance, Transfer or Lease;
(xii) the purchase, repurchase, redemption, defeasance or other acquisition or retirement for value of any Debt of the Company or a Guarantor that is subordinate in right of payment to the Notes or the applicable Note Guarantee as a result of the conversion or exchange of such Debt into Qualified Capital Interests of the Company including the making of cash payments in lieu of fractional shares;
(xiii) the purchase, repurchase, redemption, acquisition or retirement for nominal value of common stock or preferred stock purchase rights, in each case issued in connection with any shareholder rights plan that may be adopted by the Company; and
(xiv) the making of any other Restricted Payments not in excess of $75 million in the aggregate.
If the Company makes a Restricted Payment which, at the time of the making of such Restricted Payment, in the good faith determination of the Company, would be permitted under the requirements of the Indenture, such Restricted Payment shall be deemed to have been made in compliance with the Indenture notwithstanding any subsequent adjustment made in good faith to the Companys financial statements affecting Consolidated Net Income.
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If any Person in which an Investment is made, which Investment constitutes a Restricted Payment when made, thereafter becomes a Restricted Subsidiary in accordance with the Indenture, all such Investments previously made in such Person shall no longer be counted as Restricted Payments for purposes of calculating the aggregate amount of Restricted Payments pursuant to clause (c) of the first paragraph under this Limitation on Restricted Payments covenant, in each case to the extent such Investments would otherwise be so counted.
For purposes of this covenant, if a particular Restricted Payment involves a non-cash payment, including a distribution of assets, then such Restricted Payment shall be deemed to be an amount equal to the cash portion of such Restricted Payment, if any, plus an amount equal to the Fair Market Value of the non-cash portion of such Restricted Payment.
Limitation on Liens
The Company will not, and will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries, directly or indirectly, to enter into, create, incur, assume or suffer to exist any Liens of any kind (other than Permitted Liens), on or with respect to any of its property or assets now owned or hereafter acquired or any interest therein or any income or profits therefrom, which Liens secure Debt, without securing the Notes and all other amounts due under the Indenture equally and ratably with (or prior to) the Debt secured by such Lien until such time as such Debt is no longer secured by such Lien (at which time such Lien shall be automatically and unconditionally released and discharged); provided that if the Debt so secured is subordinated by its terms to the Notes or a Note Guarantee, the Lien securing such Debt will also be so subordinated by its terms to the Notes and the Guarantees at least to the same extent.
Limitation on Dividend and Other Payment Restrictions Affecting Restricted Subsidiaries
The Company will not, and will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, directly or indirectly, cause or suffer to exist or become effective or enter into any encumbrance or restriction on the ability of any Restricted Subsidiary to (i) pay dividends or make any other distributions on its Capital Interests owned by the Company or any other Restricted Subsidiary or pay any Debt or other obligation owed to the Company or any other Restricted Subsidiary, (ii) make loans or advances to the Company or any other Restricted Subsidiary or (iii) sell, lease or transfer any of its property or assets to the Company or any of its other Restricted Subsidiaries.
However, the preceding restrictions will not apply to the following encumbrances or restrictions existing under or by reason of:
(a) any encumbrance or restriction in existence on the Issue Date, including those required by the Credit Agreement and any amendments, modifications, restatements, renewals, increases, supplements, refundings, replacements, refinancings thereof, provided that the amendments, modifications, restatements, renewals, increases, supplements, refundings, replacement or refinancings, in the good faith judgment of the Company, are not materially more restrictive, taken as a whole, with respect to such dividend or other payment restrictions than those contained in these agreements on the Issue Date or refinancings thereof;
(b) any encumbrance or restriction pursuant to an agreement relating to an acquisition of property, so long as the encumbrances or restrictions in any such agreement relate solely to the property so acquired (and are not or were not created in anticipation of or in connection with the acquisition thereof);
(c) any encumbrance or restriction which exists with respect to a Person that becomes a Restricted Subsidiary or merges with or into a Restricted Subsidiary of the Company on or after the Issue Date, which is in existence at the time such Person becomes a Restricted Subsidiary, but not created in connection with or in anticipation of such Person becoming a Restricted Subsidiary, and which is not applicable to any Person or the property or assets of any Person other than such Person or the property or assets of such Person becoming a Restricted Subsidiary;
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(d) any encumbrance or restriction pursuant to an agreement effecting a permitted renewal, refunding, replacement, refinancing or extension of Debt issued pursuant to an agreement containing any encumbrance or restriction referred to in the foregoing clauses (a) through (c), so long as the encumbrances and restrictions contained in any such refinancing agreement are, on the whole, no less favorable in any material respect to the Holders than the encumbrances and restrictions contained in the agreements governing the Debt being renewed, refunded, replaced, refinanced or extended in the good faith judgment of the Company;
(e) customary provisions restricting subletting or assignment of any lease, contract, or license of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary or provisions in agreements that restrict the assignment of such agreement or any rights thereunder;
(f) any encumbrance or restriction by reason of applicable law, rule, regulation or order;
(g) any encumbrance or restriction under the Indenture, the Notes and the Note Guarantees;
(h) any encumbrance or restriction under the sale of assets or Capital Interests, including, without limitation, any agreement for the sale or other disposition of a Subsidiary that restricts distributions by that Subsidiary, pending its sale or other disposition;
(i) restrictions on cash and other deposits or net worth imposed by customers under contracts entered into the ordinary course of business;
(j) customary provisions with respect to the disposition or distribution of assets or property in Joint Venture agreements, partnership agreements, asset sale agreements, stock sale agreements, sale leaseback agreements and other similar agreements;
(k) any instrument governing Debt or Capital Interests of a Person acquired by the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries as in effect at the time of such acquisition (except to the extent such Debt or Capital Interests was incurred in connection with or in contemplation of such acquisition), which encumbrance or restriction is not applicable to any Person, or the properties or assets of any Person, other than the Person, or the property or assets of the Person, so acquired; provided that, in the case of Debt, such Debt was permitted by the terms of the Indenture to be incurred;
(l) purchase money obligations (including Capital Lease Obligations) for property acquired in the ordinary course of business that impose restrictions on that property so acquired of the nature described in clause (iii) of the first paragraph hereof;
(m) Liens securing Debt otherwise permitted to be incurred under the Indenture, including the provisions of the covenant described above under the caption Limitation on Liens that limit the right of the debtor to dispose of the assets subject to such Liens; and
(n) any other agreement governing Debt entered into after the Issue Date that contains encumbrances and restrictions that are not materially more restrictive, taken as a whole, with respect to any Restricted Subsidiary than those in effect on the Issue Date with respect to that Restricted Subsidiary pursuant to agreements in effect on the Issue Date.
Nothing contained in this Limitation on Dividend and Other Payment Restrictions Affecting Restricted Subsidiaries covenant shall prevent the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary from (i) creating, incurring, assuming or suffering to exist any Liens otherwise permitted in the Limitation on Liens covenant or (ii) restricting the sale or other disposition of property or assets of the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries that secure Debt of the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries Incurred in accordance with the Limitation on Incurrence of Debt and Limitation on Liens covenants in the Indenture.
Limitation on Transactions with Affiliates
The Company will not, and will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, make any payment to, or sell, lease, transfer or otherwise dispose of any of its properties or assets to, or purchase any property or assets
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from, or enter into or make or amend any transaction, contract, agreement, understanding, loan, advance or guarantee with, or for the benefit of, any Affiliate of the Company (each, an Affiliate Transaction), unless:
(1) the Affiliate Transaction is on terms that are not materially less favorable to the Company or the relevant Restricted Subsidiary than those that would have been obtained in a comparable transaction by Valassis or such Restricted Subsidiary with an unrelated Person; and
(2) the Company delivers to the trustee:
(a) with respect to any Affiliate Transaction or series of related Affiliate Transactions involving aggregate consideration in excess of $15.0 million, a resolution of the Board of Directors of the Company set forth in an officers certificate certifying that such Affiliate Transaction complies with this covenant and that such Affiliate Transaction has been approved by a majority of the disinterested members of the Board of Directors of the Company; and
(b) with respect to any Affiliate Transaction or series of related Affiliate Transactions involving aggregate consideration in excess of $50.0 million, an opinion as to the fairness to the Company or such Subsidiary of such Affiliate Transaction from a financial point of view issued by an accounting, valuation, appraisal or investment banking firm of national standing.
The following items will not be deemed to be Affiliate Transactions and, therefore, will not be subject to the provisions of the prior paragraph:
(1) any employment or other compensation arrangement or agreement, employee or compensation benefit plan, officer, employee, consultant or director indemnification agreement or any similar arrangement entered into by the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries in the ordinary course of business and payments pursuant thereto;
(2) transactions between or among the Company and/or its Restricted Subsidiaries;
(3) transactions with a Person (other than an Unrestricted Subsidiary of the Company) that is an Affiliate of the Company solely because the Company owns, directly or through a Restricted Subsidiary, a Capital Interest in, or controls, such Person;
(4) payment of reasonable directors fees to Persons who are not otherwise Affiliates of the Company and the payment of customary indemnification to directors, officers, employees and agents of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries;
(5) any issuance of Capital Interests (other than Redeemable Capital Stock) of the Company to Affiliates of the Company;
(6) Restricted Payments that do not violate the provisions of the indenture described above under the caption Restricted Payments and Permitted Investments (other than clause (j) of the definition thereof);
(7) the grant of stock options, restricted stock, stock appreciation rights, phantom stock awards or similar rights or equity interests to directors, officers, employees and consultants that are approved by the Board of Directors of the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries in the ordinary course of business;
(8) the existence of, or the performance by the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries under the terms of, any agreement or instrument as in effect on the Issue Date or any amendment thereto (so long as any such agreement or instrument together with all amendments thereto, taken as a whole, is not more disadvantageous to the holders of the Notes in any material respect than the original agreement or instrument as in effect on the Issue Date) or any transaction contemplated thereby;
(9) contributions to the capital of Subsidiaries to the extent necessary to comply with laws or regulations mandating solvency or minimum capitalization;
(10) transactions effected as part of any Permitted Securitization Transaction; and
(11) any contribution to the capital of the Company.
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Provision of Financial Information
Whether or not required by the Commission, so long as any Notes are outstanding, the Company will furnish to the Holders of Notes (including by posting on the Companys website within one business day or filing electronically with the Commission through the Commissions Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis and Retrieval System (or any successor system)), within the time periods specified in the Commissions rules and regulations (including any grace periods or extensions permitted by the Commission):
(1) all quarterly and annual financial information that would be required to be contained in a filing with the Commission on Forms 10-Q and 10-K if the Company were required to file such Forms, including a Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and, with respect to the annual information only, a report on the annual financial statements by the Companys certified independent accountants; and
(2) all current reports that would be required to be filed (as opposed to furnished) with the Commission on Form 8-K if the Company were required to file such reports.
In addition, whether or not required by the Commission, the Company will file a copy of all of the information and reports referred to in clauses (1) and (2) above with the Commission for public availability within the time periods specified in the Commissions rules and regulations, including any grace periods or extensions permitted by the Commission (unless the Commission will not accept such a filing), or otherwise make such information available to prospective investors. In addition, the Company and the Guarantors have agreed that, for so long as any Notes remain outstanding, they will furnish to the Holders and to prospective investors, upon their request, the information, if any, required to be delivered pursuant to Rule 144A(d)(4) under the Securities Act.
Additional Note Guarantees
On the Issue Date, each of the Guarantors will guarantee the Notes in the manner and on the terms set forth in the Indenture.
After the Issue Date, the Company will cause each of its Domestic Restricted Subsidiaries that Incurs any Debt pursuant to clause (i) of the definition of Permitted Debt to guarantee the Notes. If any Guarantor ceases to be a Domestic Restricted Subsidiary, such Guarantors obligations under the Note Guarantees will be released.
Each Note Guarantee by a Guarantor will be limited to an amount not to exceed the maximum amount that can be guaranteed by that Guarantor without rendering the Guarantee, as it relates to such Guarantor, voidable under applicable law relating to fraudulent conveyance or fraudulent transfer or similar laws affecting the rights of creditors generally. By virtue of this limitation, a Guarantors obligations under its Note Guarantees could be significantly less than amounts payable with respect to the Notes, or a Guarantor may have effectively no obligation under its Note Guarantee. See Risk FactorsRisks Related to the Notes and our Other IndebtednessFederal and state statutes allow courts, under specific circumstances, to void guarantees and require noteholders to return payments received from subsidiary guarantors.
Limitation on Creation of Unrestricted Subsidiaries
The Company may designate any Subsidiary of the Company to be an Unrestricted Subsidiary as provided below, in which event such Subsidiary and each other Person that is then or thereafter becomes a Subsidiary of such Subsidiary will be deemed to be an Unrestricted Subsidiary.
The Company may designate any Subsidiary to be an Unrestricted Subsidiary unless such Subsidiary owns any Capital Interests of, or owns or holds any Lien on any property of, any other Restricted Subsidiary of the Company, provided that either:
(x) the Subsidiary to be so designated has Total Assets of $1,000 or less; or
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(y) the Company could make a Restricted Payment at the time of designation in an amount equal to the greater of the Fair Market Value or book value of such Subsidiary pursuant to the Limitation on Restricted Payments covenant and such amount is thereafter treated as a Restricted Payment for the purpose of calculating the amount available for Restricted Payments thereunder.
An Unrestricted Subsidiary may be designated as a Restricted Subsidiary if (i) all the Debt of such Unrestricted Subsidiary could be Incurred under the Limitation on Incurrence of Debt covenant and (ii) all the Liens on the property and assets of such Unrestricted Subsidiary could be incurred pursuant to the Limitation on Liens covenant.
Consolidation, Merger, Conveyance, Transfer or Lease
The Company will not in any transaction or series of transactions, consolidate with or merge into any other Person (other than a merger of a Subsidiary into the Company in which the Company is the continuing Person or the merger of a Restricted Subsidiary into or with another Restricted Subsidiary or another Person that as a result of such transaction becomes or merges into a Restricted Subsidiary), or sell, assign, convey, transfer, lease or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, to any other Person, unless:
(i) either: (a) the Company shall be the continuing Person or (b) the Person (if other than the Company) formed by such consolidation or into which the Company is merged, or the Person that acquires, by sale, assignment, conveyance, transfer, lease or other disposition, all or substantially all of the property and assets of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries, taken as a whole (such Person, the Surviving Entity), (1) shall be a corporation, partnership, limited liability company or similar entity organized and validly existing under the laws of the United States, any political subdivision thereof or any state thereof or the District of Columbia and (2) shall expressly assume, by a supplemental indenture, the due and punctual payment of all amounts due in respect of the principal of (and premium, if any) and interest on all the Notes and the performance of the covenants and obligations of the Company under the Indenture; provided that at any time the Company or the Surviving Entity is not a corporation, there shall be a co-issuer of the Notes that is a corporation;
(ii) immediately after giving effect to such transaction or series of transactions on a pro forma basis (including, without limitation, any Debt Incurred or anticipated to be Incurred in connection with or in respect of such transaction or series of transactions), no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing; and
(iii) the Company delivers, or causes to be delivered, to the Trustee, in form satisfactory to the Trustee, an Officers Certificate and an opinion of counsel, each stating that such consolidation, merger, sale, conveyance, assignment, transfer, lease or other disposition complies with the requirements of the Indenture and that such supplemental indenture constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation of the Surviving Entity subject to customary exceptions.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, failure to satisfy the requirements of the preceding clause (ii) will not prohibit:
(a) a merger between the Company and a Restricted Subsidiary that is a wholly owned Subsidiary of the Company or a sale, assignment, conveyance, transfer, lease or other disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, to a Restricted Subsidiary that is a wholly owned Subsidiary of the Company; or
(b) a merger between the Company and an Affiliate incorporated solely for the purpose of converting the Company into a corporation organized under the laws of the United States or any political subdivision or state thereof; so long as, in each case, the amount of Debt of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries is not increased thereby.
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For all purposes of the Indenture and the Notes, Subsidiaries of any Surviving Entity will, upon such transaction or series of transactions, become Restricted Subsidiaries or Unrestricted Subsidiaries as provided pursuant to the Indenture and all Debt, and all Liens on property or assets, of the Surviving Entity and its Subsidiaries that was not Debt, or were not Liens on property or assets, of the Company and its Subsidiaries immediately prior to such transaction or series of transactions shall be deemed to have been Incurred upon such transaction or series of transactions.
Upon any transaction or series of transactions that are of the type described in, and are effected in accordance with, conditions described in the immediately preceding paragraphs, the Surviving Entity shall succeed to, and be substituted for, and may exercise every right and power of, the Company, under the Indenture with the same effect as if such Surviving Entity had been named as the Company therein; and when a Surviving Entity duly assumes all of the obligations and covenants of the Company pursuant to the Indenture and the Notes, except in the case of a lease, the predecessor Person shall be relieved of all such obligations.
Each Guarantor (other than any Guarantor whose Guarantee is to be released in accordance with the terms of the Note Guarantee and the Indenture in connection with any transaction complying with the provisions of Repurchase at the Option of HoldersAsset Sales) will not, and the Company will not cause or permit any Guarantor to, consolidate with or merge with or into any Person other than the Company or any other Guarantor unless:
(i) the entity formed by or surviving any such consolidation or merger (if other than the Guarantor) or to which such sale, lease, conveyance or other disposition shall have been made is a corporation organized and existing under the laws of the United States or any State thereof or the District or Columbia;
(ii) such entity assumes by supplemental indenture all of the obligations of the Guarantor on the Note Guarantee; and
(iii) immediately after giving effect to such transaction, no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing.
Any merger or consolidation of a Guarantor with and into the Company (with the Company being the surviving entity) or another Restricted Subsidiary of the Company that is a Guarantor need only comply with clause (iii) of the first paragraph of this covenant.
Events of Default
Each of the following is an Event of Default under the Indenture:
(1) default in the payment in respect of the principal of (or premium, if any, on) any Note when due and payable (whether at Stated Maturity or upon repurchase, acceleration, optional redemption or otherwise);
(2) default in the payment of any interest upon any Note when it becomes due and payable, and continuance of such default for a period of 30 days;
(3) except as permitted by the Indenture, any Note Guarantee of any Significant Subsidiary (or any group of Restricted Subsidiaries that, taken together, would constitute a Significant Subsidiary) shall for any reason cease to be, or it shall be asserted by any Guarantor or the Company not to be, in full force and effect and enforceable in accordance with its terms;
(4) default in the performance, or breach, of any other covenant or agreement of the Company or any Guarantor in the Indenture (other than a covenant or agreement a default in whose performance or whose breach is specifically dealt with in clause (1), (2) or (3) above), and continuance of such default or breach for a period of 60 days after written notice thereof (or 180 days in the case of the covenant described under Certain CovenantsProvision of Financial Information) has been given to the Company by the Trustee or to the Company and the Trustee by the Holders of at least 25% in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Notes;
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(5) the failure to pay at final maturity (giving effect to any applicable grace periods and any extensions thereof) the stated principal amount of any Indebtedness of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary of the Company (other than the Notes), or the acceleration of the final stated maturity of any such Indebtedness (which acceleration is not rescinded, annulled or otherwise cured within 30 days of receipt by the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary of notice of any such acceleration) if the aggregate principal amount of such Indebtedness, together with the principal amount of any other such Indebtedness in default for failure to pay principal at final stated maturity or which has been accelerated (in each case with respect to which the 30-day period described above has elapsed), aggregates $50 million or more at any time;
(6) the entry against the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary that is a Significant Subsidiary of a final judgment or final judgments (to the extent not covered by independent third party insurance as to which the insurer does not dispute coverage) for the payment of money in an aggregate amount in excess of $50 million, by a court or courts of competent jurisdiction, which judgments remain undischarged, unwaived, unstayed, unbonded or unsatisfied for a period of 60 consecutive days after such judgment or judgments become final and nonappealable; or
(7) certain events of bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization affecting the Company or any Significant Subsidiary (or any group of Restricted Subsidiaries that, taken together, would constitute a Significant Subsidiary).
If an Event of Default (other than an Event of Default specified in clause (7) above with respect to the Company) occurs and is continuing, then and in every such case the Trustee or the Holders of not less than 25% in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Notes may declare the principal of the Notes and any accrued interest on the Notes to be due and payable immediately by a notice in writing to the Company (and to the Trustee if given by Holders); provided, however, that after such acceleration, but before a judgment or decree based on acceleration, the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Notes may, under certain circumstances, rescind and annul such acceleration if all Events of Default, other than the nonpayment of accelerated principal of or interest on the Notes, have been cured or waived as provided in the Indenture.
In the event of a declaration of acceleration of the Notes solely because an Event of Default described in clause (5) above has occurred and is continuing, the declaration of acceleration of the Notes shall be automatically rescinded and annulled if the event of default or payment default triggering such Event of Default pursuant to clause (5) shall be remedied or cured by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary of the Company or waived by the holders of the relevant Debt within 20 business days after the declaration of acceleration with respect thereto and if the rescission and annulment of the acceleration of the Notes would not conflict with any judgment or decree of a court of competent jurisdiction obtained by the Trustee for the payment of amounts due on the Notes.
If an Event of Default specified in clause (7) above occurs with respect to the Company, the principal of and any accrued interest on the Notes then outstanding shall ipso facto become immediately due and payable without any declaration or other act on the part of the Trustee or any Holder. For further information as to waiver of defaults, see Amendment, Supplement and Waiver. The Trustee may withhold from Holders notice of any Default (except Default in payment of principal of, premium, if any, and interest) if the Trustee determines that withholding notice is in the interests of the Holders to do so.
No Holder of any Note will have any right to institute any proceeding with respect to the Indenture or for any remedy thereunder, unless such Holder shall have previously given to the Trustee written notice of a continuing Event of Default and unless also the Holders of at least 25% in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Notes shall have made written request to the Trustee, and provided indemnity satisfactory to the Trustee, to institute such proceeding as Trustee, and the Trustee shall not have received from the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Notes a direction inconsistent with such request and shall have failed to institute such proceeding within 60 days. Such limitations do not apply, however, to a suit
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instituted by a Holder of a Note directly (as opposed to through the Trustee) for enforcement of payment of the principal of (and premium, if any) or interest on such Note on or after the respective due dates expressed in such Note.
The Company will be required to furnish to the Trustee annually a statement as to the performance of certain obligations under the Indenture and as to any Default in such performance. The Company also is required to notify the Trustee if it becomes aware of the occurrence of any Default or Event of Default.
Amendment, Supplement and Waiver
Without the consent of any Holders, at any time and from time to time, the Company, the Guarantors and the Trustee may enter into one or more supplemental indentures to the Indenture and the Guarantees for any of the following purposes:
(1) to evidence the succession of another Person to the Company and the assumption by any such successor of the covenants of the Company in the Indenture and the Guarantees and in the Notes;
(2) to secure the Notes, to add to the covenants of the Company for the benefit of the Holders, or to surrender any right or power conferred upon the Company in the Indenture;
(3) to add additional Events of Default;
(4) to provide for uncertificated Notes in addition to or in place of the certificated Notes;
(5) to evidence and provide for the acceptance of appointment under the Indenture by a successor Trustee;
(6) to provide for or confirm the issuance of Additional Notes in accordance with the terms of the Indenture;
(7) to add a Guarantor or to release a Guarantor in accordance with the terms of the Indenture;
(8) to cure or reform any ambiguity, defect, omission, mistake, manifest error or inconsistency or to conform the Indenture or the Notes to this Description of the Notes;
(9) to comply with any requirements of the Commission with respect to the qualification of the Indenture under the Trust Indenture Act; or
(10) to provide additional rights or benefits to the Holders or to make any change that does not adversely affect the rights of any Holder.
With the consent of the Holders of not less than a majority in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Notes, the Company, the Guarantors and the Trustee may enter into one or more supplemental indentures to the Indenture for the purpose of adding any provisions to or changing in any manner or eliminating any of the provisions of the Indenture or the Notes or of modifying in any manner the rights of the Holders of the Notes under the Indenture, including the definitions therein; provided, however, that no such supplemental indenture shall, without the consent of the Holder of each outstanding Note affected thereby:
(1) change the Stated Maturity of any Note or of any installment of interest on any Note, or reduce the amount payable in respect of the principal thereof or the rate of interest thereon or any premium payable thereon, or reduce the amount that would be due and payable on acceleration of the maturity thereof, or change the place of payment where, or the coin or currency in which, any Note or any premium or interest thereon is payable, or impair the right to institute suit for the enforcement of any such payment on or after the Stated Maturity thereof, or change the date on which any Notes may be subject to redemption or reduce the Redemption Price therefore;
(2) reduce the percentage in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Notes, the consent of whose Holders is required for any such supplemental indenture, or the consent of whose Holders is required for any
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waiver (of compliance with certain provisions of the Indenture or certain defaults thereunder and their consequences) provided for in the Indenture;
(3) modify the obligations of the Company to make a Change of Control Offer or an Asset Sale Offer upon a Change of Control or Asset Sale, as the case may be, if such modification was done after the occurrence of such event;
(4) modify or change any provision of the Indenture affecting the ranking of the Notes or any Note Guarantee in a manner adverse to the Holders of the Notes;
(5) modify any of the provisions of the Indenture described in this paragraph or provisions relating to waiver of defaults or certain covenants, except to increase any such percentage required for such actions or to provide that certain other provisions of the Indenture cannot be modified or waived without the consent of the Holder of each outstanding Note affected thereby; or
(6) release any Guarantees required to be maintained under the Indenture (other than in accordance with the terms of the Indenture).
The Holders of not less than a majority in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Notes may on behalf of the Holders of all the Notes waive any past default under the Indenture and its consequences, except a default:
(1) in any payment in respect of the principal of (or premium, if any) or interest on any Notes (including any Note which is required to have been purchased pursuant to a Change of Control Offer or Asset Sale Offer which has been made by the Company); or
(2) in respect of a covenant or provision of the Indenture which under the Indenture cannot be modified or amended without the consent of the Holder of each outstanding Note affected.
Satisfaction and Discharge of the Indenture; Defeasance
The Company may terminate its obligations and the obligations of the Guarantors with respect to the Notes and the related Note Guarantees under the Indenture, except for those which expressly survive by the terms of the Indenture, when:
(1) either: (A) all Notes theretofore authenticated and delivered have been delivered to the Trustee for cancellation, or (B) all such Notes not theretofore delivered to the Trustee for cancellation (i) have become due and payable or (ii) will become due and payable within one year or are to be called for redemption within one year (a Discharge) under irrevocable arrangements satisfactory to the Trustee for the giving of notice of redemption by the Trustee in the name, and at the expense, of the Company, and the Company has irrevocably deposited or caused to be deposited with the Trustee funds in an amount sufficient to pay and discharge the entire indebtedness on the Notes, not theretofore delivered to the Trustee for cancellation, for principal of, premium, if any, and interest to the Stated Maturity or date of redemption;
(2) no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing on the date of the deposit or will occur as a result of the deposit and the deposit will not result in a breach or violation of, or constitute a default under, any other instrument to which the Company or any Guarantor is a party or by which the Company or any Guarantor is bound;
(3) the Company has paid or caused to be paid all other sums then due and payable under the Indenture by the Company;
(4) the deposit will not result in a breach or violation of, or constitute a default under, any other instrument to which the Company or any Guarantor is a party or by which the Company or any Guarantor is bound;
(5) the Company has delivered irrevocable instructions to the Trustee under the Indenture to apply the deposited money toward the payment of the Notes at maturity or on the redemption date, as the case may be; and
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(6) the Company has delivered to the Trustee an Officers Certificate and an opinion of counsel in form and substance reasonably acceptable to the Trustee, each stating that all conditions precedent under the Indenture relating to the Discharge have been complied with.
The Company may elect, at its option, to have its obligations and the obligations of the Guarantors discharged with respect to the outstanding Notes and the related Guarantees (legal defeasance). Legal defeasance means that the Company will be deemed to have paid and discharged the entire indebtedness represented by the outstanding Notes, except for:
(1) the rights of Holders of such Notes to receive payments in respect of the principal of and any premium and interest on such Notes when payments are due;
(2) the Companys obligations with respect to such Notes concerning issuing temporary Notes, registration of Notes, mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Notes and the maintenance of an office or agency for payment and money for security payments held in trust;
(3) the rights, powers, trusts, duties and immunities of the Trustee; and
(4) the defeasance provisions of the Indenture.
In addition, the Company may elect, at its option, to have its obligations released with respect to certain covenants, including, without limitation, its obligation to make offers to purchase Notes in connection with any Change of Control or Asset Sale, in the Indenture (covenant defeasance) and any omission to comply with such obligation shall not constitute a Default or an Event of Default with respect to the Notes. In the event covenant defeasance occurs, certain events (not including non-payment, bankruptcy and insolvency events) described under Events of Default will no longer constitute an Event of Default with respect to the Notes and the Guarantors will be released from their obligations with respect to the related Note Guarantees related to such covenants.
In order to exercise either legal defeasance or covenant defeasance with respect to outstanding Notes:
(1) the Company must irrevocably have deposited or caused to be deposited with the Trustee as trust funds in trust for the purpose of making the following payments, specifically pledged as security for, and dedicated solely to the benefits of the Holders of such Notes: (A) money in an amount, or (B) U.S. government obligations, which through the scheduled payment of principal and interest in respect thereof in accordance with their terms will provide, not later than the due date of any payment, money in an amount or (C) a combination thereof, in each case sufficient without reinvestment, in the opinion of a nationally recognized firm of independent public accountants expressed in a written certification thereof delivered to the Trustee and in form and substance reasonably acceptable to the Trustee, to pay and discharge, and which shall be applied by the Trustee to pay and discharge, the entire indebtedness in respect of the principal of and premium, if any, and interest on such Notes on the Stated Maturity thereof or (if the Company has made irrevocable arrangements satisfactory to the Trustee for the giving of notice of redemption by the Trustee in the name and at the expense of the Company) the redemption date thereof, as the case may be, in accordance with the terms of the Indenture and such Notes;
(2) in the case of legal defeasance, the Company shall have delivered to the Trustee an opinion of counsel reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee stating that (A) the Company has received from, or there has been published by, the Internal Revenue Service a ruling or (B) since the date of the Indenture, there has been a change in the applicable United States federal income tax law, in either case of (A) or (B) to the effect that, and based thereon such opinion shall confirm that, the Holders of the Notes will not recognize gain or loss for United States federal income tax purposes as a result of the deposit and legal defeasance to be effected with respect to such Notes and will be subject to United States federal income tax on the same amount, in the same manner and at the same times as would be the case if such deposit and legal defeasance were not to occur;
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(3) in the case of covenant defeasance, the Company shall have delivered to the Trustee an opinion of counsel to the effect that the Holders of such outstanding Notes will not recognize gain or loss for United States federal income tax purposes as a result of the deposit and covenant defeasance to be effected with respect to such Notes and will be subject to United States federal income tax on the same amount, in the same manner and at the same times as would be the case if such deposit and covenant defeasance were not to occur;
(4) no Event Default pursuant to paragraph (7) under Events of Default shall have occurred and be continuing on the date of such deposit or during the 91-day period thereafter;
(5) such legal defeasance or covenant defeasance shall not cause the Trustee to have a conflicting interest within the meaning of the Trust Indenture Act (assuming all Notes are in default within the meaning of such Act);
(6) such legal defeasance or covenant defeasance shall not result in a breach or violation of, or constitute a default under, any material agreement or material instrument (other than the Indenture) to which the Company is a party or by which the Company is bound; and
(7) the Company shall have delivered to the Trustee an Officers Certificate and an opinion of counsel in form and substance reasonably acceptable to the Trustee, each stating that all conditions precedent with respect to such legal defeasance or covenant defeasance have been complied with.
In the event of a legal defeasance or a Discharge, a Holder whose taxable year straddles the deposit of funds and the distribution in redemption to such Holder would be subject to tax on any gain (whether characterized as capital gain or market discount) in the year of deposit rather than in the year of receipt. In connection with a Discharge, in the event the Company becomes insolvent within the applicable preference period after the date of deposit, monies held for the payment of the Notes may be part of the bankruptcy estate of the Company, disbursement of such monies may be subject to the automatic stay of the bankruptcy code and monies disbursed to Holders may be subject to disgorgement in favor of the Companys estate. Similar results may apply upon the insolvency of the Company during the applicable preference period following the deposit of monies in connection with legal defeasance.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the opinion of counsel required by clause (2) above with respect to a legal defeasance need not to be delivered if all Notes not therefore delivered to the Trustee for cancellation (x) have become due and payable, or (y) will become due and payable within one year at Stated Maturity or are to be called for redemption within one year under arrangements reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee for the giving of notice of redemption by the Trustee in the name, and at the expense, of the Company.
The Trustee
Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, the Trustee under the Indenture, will be the initial paying agent and registrar for the Notes. Except during the continuance of an Event of Default, the Trustee will perform only such duties as are specifically set forth in the Indenture.
The Indenture and the Trust Indenture Act contain certain limitations on the rights of the Trustee, should it become a creditor of the Company, to obtain payment of claims in certain cases or to realize on certain property received in respect of any such claim as security or otherwise. The Trustee will be permitted to engage in other transactions; however, if it acquires any conflicting interest (as defined in the Trust Indenture Act) it must eliminate such conflict within 90 days, apply to the Commission for permission to continue or resign.
The Holders of a majority in principal amount of the outstanding Notes will have the right to direct the time, method and place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the Trustee or exercising any trust or power conferred on the Trustee, subject to receipt by the Trustee of security and indemnity satisfactory to the Trustee and subject to certain exceptions. The Indenture provides that in case an Event of Default has occurred
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and is continuing, the Trustee shall exercise such of the rights and powers vested in it by the Indenture, and use the same degree of care and skill in their exercise, as a prudent person would exercise or use under the circumstances in the conduct of its own affairs. Subject to such provisions, the Trustee shall be under no obligation to exercise any of the rights or powers vested in it by the Indenture at the request or direction of any of the Holders pursuant to the Indenture, unless such Holders shall have provided to the Trustee security and indemnity satisfactory to the Trustee against the costs, losses, expenses and liabilities which might be incurred by it in compliance with such request or direction and then only to the extent required by the terms of the Indenture.
No Personal Liability of Stockholders, Employees, Officers or Directors
No director, manager, officer, employee, stockholder, member, general or limited partner or incorporator, past, present or future, of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries, as such or in such capacity, shall have any personal liability for any obligations of the Company or the Guarantors under the Notes, any Note Guarantee or the Indenture by reason of his, her or its status as such director, officer, employee, stockholder, general or limited partner or incorporator. Each Holder of Notes by accepting a Note waives and releases all such liability. The waiver and release are part of the consideration for the issuance of the Notes and Note Guarantees.
Governing Law
The Indenture, the Notes and Note Guarantees are governed by, and will be construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of New York.
Book-Entry, Delivery and Form
Except as set forth below, the exchange notes will be issued in the form of one global certificate (the Global Notes). The global exchange note will be deposited upon issuance with the Trustee as custodian for DTC, in New York, New York, and registered in the name of DTC or its nominee, in each case for credit to an account of a direct or indirect participant in DTC as described below.
Except as set forth below, the Global Notes may be transferred, in whole and not in part, only to another nominee of DTC or to a successor of DTC or its nominee. Beneficial interests in the Global Notes may not be exchanged for definitive notes in registered certificated form (Certificated Notes) except in the limited circumstances described below. See Exchange of Global Notes for Certificated Notes. Except in the limited circumstances described below, owners of beneficial interests in the Global Notes will not be entitled to receive physical delivery of Notes in certificated form.
Depository Procedures
The following description of the operations and procedures of DTC, Euroclear System (Euroclear) and Clearstream Banking, S.A. (Clearstream) are provided solely as a matter of convenience. These operations and procedures are solely within the control of the respective settlement systems and are subject to changes by them. Valassis takes no responsibility for these operations and procedures and urges investors to contact the system or their participants directly to discuss these matters.
DTC has advised Valassis that DTC is a limited-purpose trust company created to hold securities for its participating organizations (collectively, the Participants) and to facilitate the clearance and settlement of transactions in those securities between the Participants through electronic book-entry changes in accounts of its Participants. The Participants include securities brokers and dealers (including the initial purchaser), banks, trust companies, clearing corporations and certain other organizations. Access to DTCs system is also available to other entities such as banks, brokers, dealers and trust companies that clear through or maintain a custodial relationship with a Participant, either directly or indirectly (collectively, the Indirect Participants). Persons who are not Participants may beneficially own securities held by or on behalf of DTC only through the
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Participants or the Indirect Participants. The ownership interests in, and transfers of ownership interests in, each security held by or on behalf of DTC are recorded in the records of the Participants and Indirect Participants.
DTC has also advised Valassis that, pursuant to procedures established by it:
(1) | upon deposit of the Global Notes, DTC will credit the accounts of the Participants designated by the initial purchaser with portions of the principal amount of the Global Notes; and |
(2) | ownership of these interests in the Global Notes will be shown on, and the transfer of ownership of these interests will be effected only through, records maintained by DTC (with respect to the Participants) or by the Participants and the Indirect Participants (with respect to other owners of beneficial interests in the Global Notes). |
Investors in the Global Notes who are Participants may hold their interests therein directly through DTC. Investors in the Global Notes who are not Participants may hold their interests therein indirectly through organizations (including Euroclear and Clearstream) which are Participants. All interests in a Global Note, including those held through Euroclear or Clearstream, may be subject to the procedures and requirements of DTC. Those interests held through Euroclear or Clearstream may also be subject to the procedures and requirements of such systems. The laws of some states require that certain Persons take physical delivery in definitive form of securities that they own. Consequently, the ability to transfer beneficial interests in a Global Note to such Persons will be limited to that extent. Because DTC can act only on behalf of the Participants, which in turn act on behalf of the Indirect Participants, the ability of a Person having beneficial interests in a Global Note to pledge such interests to Persons that do not participate in the DTC system, or otherwise take actions in respect of such interests, may be affected by the lack of a physical certificate evidencing such interests.
Except as described below, owners of interests in the Global Notes will not have Notes registered in their names, will not receive physical delivery of Notes in certificated form and will not be considered the registered owners or holders thereof under the Indenture for any purpose.
Payments in respect of the principal of, premium, if any, on, and interest on, a Global Note registered in the name of DTC or its nominee will be payable to DTC in its capacity as the registered holder under the Indenture. Under the terms of the Indenture, Valassis and the Trustee will treat the Persons in whose names the Notes, including the Global Notes, are registered as the owners of the Notes for the purpose of receiving payments and for all other purposes. Consequently, none of Valassis, the Trustee nor any agent of Valassis or the Trustee has or will have any responsibility or liability for:
(1) | any aspect of DTCs records or any Participants or Indirect Participants records relating to or payments made on account of beneficial ownership interests in the Global Notes or for maintaining, supervising or reviewing any of DTCs records or any Participants or Indirect Participants records relating to the beneficial ownership interests in the Global Notes; or |
(2) | any other matter relating to the actions and practices of DTC or any of its Participants or Indirect Participants. |
DTC has advised Valassis that its current practice, upon receipt of any payment in respect of securities such as the Notes (including principal and interest), is to credit the accounts of the relevant Participants with the payment on the payment date unless DTC has reason to believe that it will not receive payment on such payment date. Each relevant Participant is credited with an amount proportionate to its beneficial ownership of an interest in the principal amount of the relevant security as shown on the records of DTC. Payments by the Participants and the Indirect Participants to the beneficial owners of Notes will be governed by standing instructions and customary practices and will be the responsibility of the Participants or the Indirect Participants and will not be the responsibility of DTC, the Trustee or Valasssis. Neither Valassis nor the Trustee will be liable for any delay by DTC or any of the Participants or the Indirect Participants in identifying the beneficial owners of the Notes, and Valasssis and the Trustee may conclusively rely on and will be protected in relying on instructions from DTC or its nominee for all purposes.
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Transfers between the Participants will be effected in accordance with DTCs procedures, and will be settled in same-day funds, and transfers between participants in Euroclear and Clearstream will be effected in accordance with their respective rules and operating procedures.
Subject to compliance with the transfer restrictions applicable to the Notes described herein, cross-market transfers between the Participants, on the one hand, and Euroclear or Clearstream participants, on the other hand, will be effected through DTC in accordance with DTCs rules on behalf of Euroclear or Clearstream, as the case may be, by their respective depositaries; however, such cross-market transactions will require delivery of instructions to Euroclear or Clearstream, as the case may be, by the counterparty in such system in accordance with the rules and procedures and within the established deadlines (Brussels time) of such system. Euroclear or Clearstream, as the case may be, will, if the transaction meets its settlement requirements, deliver instructions to its respective depositary to take action to effect final settlement on its behalf by delivering or receiving interests in the relevant Global Note in DTC, and making or receiving payment in accordance with normal procedures for same-day funds settlement applicable to DTC. Euroclear participants and Clearstream participants may not deliver instructions directly to the depositories for Euroclear or Clearstream.
DTC has advised Valassis that it will take any action permitted to be taken by a holder of Notes only at the direction of one or more Participants to whose account DTC has credited the interests in the Global Notes and only in respect of such portion of the aggregate principal amount of the Notes as to which such Participant or Participants has or have given such direction. However, if there is an Event of Default under the Notes, DTC reserves the right to exchange the Global Notes for legended Notes in certificated form, and to distribute such Notes to its Participants.
Although DTC, Euroclear and Clearstream have agreed to the foregoing procedures to facilitate transfers of interests in the Rule 144A Global Notes and the Regulation S Global Notes among participants in DTC, Euroclear and Clearstream, they are under no obligation to perform or to continue to perform such procedures, and may discontinue such procedures at any time. None of Valassis, the Trustee nor any of their respective agents will have any responsibility for the performance by DTC, Euroclear or Clearstream or their respective participants or indirect participants of their respective obligations under the rules and procedures governing their operations.
The information in this section concerning DTC and DTCs book-entry system has been obtained from sources that we believe to be reliable (including DTC), but we take no responsibility for its accuracy. Neither we nor the Trustee will have any responsibility or obligation to participants, or the persons for whom they act as nominees, with respect to:
(1) | the accuracy of the records of DTC, its nominee or any participant, any ownership interest in the notes, or |
(2) | any payments to, or the providing of notice, to participants or beneficial owners. |
Exchange of Global Notes for Certificated Notes
A Global Note is exchangeable for Certificated Notes if:
(1) | DTC (a) notifies Valassis that it is unwilling or unable to continue as depositary for the Global Notes or (b) has ceased to be a clearing agency registered under the Exchange Act and, in either case, Valassis fails to appoint a successor depositary; |
(2) | Valassis, at its option, notifies the Trustee in writing that it elects to cause the issuance of the Certificated Notes; provided that in no event shall the Regulation S Temporary Global Note be exchanged for Certificated Notes prior to (a) the expiration of the Restricted Period and (b) the receipt of any certificates required under the provisions of Regulation S; or |
(3) | there has occurred and is continuing a Default or Event of Default with respect to the Notes. |
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In addition, beneficial interests in a Global Note may be exchanged for Certificated Notes upon prior written notice given to the Trustee by or on behalf of DTC in accordance with the Indenture. In all cases, Certificated Notes delivered in exchange for any Global Note or beneficial interests in Global Notes will be registered in the names, and issued in any approved denominations, requested by or on behalf of the depositary (in accordance with its customary procedures) and any original notes not exchanged pursuant to the exchange offer will bear the applicable Securities Act restrictive legend, unless that legend is not required by applicable law.
Same Day Settlement and Payment
Valassis will make payments in respect of the Notes represented by the Global Notes (including principal, premium, if any, and interest) by wire transfer of immediately available funds to the accounts specified by DTC or its nominee. Valasssis will make all payments of principal, premium, if any, and interest with respect to Certificated Notes by wire transfer of immediately available funds to the accounts specified by the holders of the Certificated Notes or, if no such account is specified, by mailing a check to each such holders registered address. The Notes represented by the Global Notes are expected to trade in DTCs Same-Day Funds Settlement System, and any permitted secondary market trading activity in such Notes will, therefore, be required by DTC to be settled in immediately available funds. Valassis expects that secondary trading in any Certificated Notes will also be settled in immediately available funds.
Because of time zone differences, the securities account of a Euroclear or Clearstream participant purchasing an interest in a Global Note from a Participant will be credited, and any such crediting will be reported to the relevant Euroclear or Clearstream participant, during the securities settlement processing day (which must be a business day for Euroclear and Clearstream) immediately following the settlement date of DTC. DTC has advised Valasssis that cash received in Euroclear or Clearstream as a result of sales of interests in a Global Note by or through a Euroclear or Clearstream participant to a Participant will be received with value on the settlement date of DTC but will be available in the relevant Euroclear or Clearstream cash account only as of the business day for Euroclear or Clearstream following DTCs settlement date.
Registered Exchange Offer; Registration Rights
We are filing this exchange offer registration statement to comply with our obligation to register the issuance of the exchange notes pursuant to the registration rights agreement which we entered into with the initial purchasers of the original notes. See The Exchange Offer.
Certain Definitions
Set forth below is a summary of certain of the defined terms used in the Indenture. Reference is made to the Indenture for the full definition of all such terms, as well as any capitalized term used herein for which no definition is provided.
2015 Notes means the 8 1/4% Senior Notes due 2015 of the Company.
Acquired Debt means Debt (1) of a Person (including an Unrestricted Subsidiary) existing at the time such Person becomes a Restricted Subsidiary or (2) assumed in connection with the acquisition of assets from such Person. Acquired Debt shall be deemed to have been Incurred, with respect to clause (1) of the preceding sentence, on the date such Person becomes a Restricted Subsidiary and, with respect to clause (2) of the preceding sentence, on the date of consummation of such acquisition of assets.
Affiliate of any Person means any other Person directly or indirectly controlling or controlled by or under direct or indirect common control with such Person. For the purposes of this definition, control when used with respect to any Person means the power to direct the management and policies of such Person, directly or indirectly, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise; and the terms controlling and controlled have meanings that correspond to the foregoing.
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Applicable Premium means, with respect to any Note on any applicable redemption date, the greater of:
(1) 1% of the then outstanding principal amount of the Note; and
(2) the excess of:
(a) the present value at such redemption date of (i) the Redemption Price of the Note at February 1, 2016 (such Redemption Price being set forth in the table appearing above under the caption Optional Redemption) plus (ii) all required remaining scheduled interest payments due on the Note through February 1, 2016 (excluding accrued but unpaid interest), computed using a discount rate equal to the Treasury Rate as of such redemption date plus 50 basis points; over
(b) the then outstanding principal amount of the Note.
Asset Acquisition means:
(a) an Investment by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary in any other Person pursuant to which such Person shall become a Restricted Subsidiary, or shall be merged with or into the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary; or
(b) the acquisition by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary of the assets of any Person which constitute all or substantially all of the assets of such Person, any division or line of business of such Person or any other properties or assets of such Person other than in the ordinary course of business and consistent with past practices.
Asset Sale means:
(i) the sale, lease, conveyance, transfer or other disposition, whether in a single transaction or a series of related transactions, of property or assets (including by way of a Sale and Leaseback Transaction) of the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries (each referred to in this definition as a disposition); or
(ii) the issuance or sale of Capital Interests in any Restricted Subsidiary, whether in a single transaction or a series of related transactions (other than Preferred Interests in Restricted Subsidiaries issued in compliance with the covenant described under Limitation on Incurrence of Debt);
in each case, other than:
(a) any disposition of Eligible Cash Equivalents or Investment Grade Securities or obsolete or worn out equipment in the ordinary course of business or any disposition of inventory or goods (or other assets) no longer used in the ordinary course of business;
(b) the disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company in a manner permitted pursuant to the provisions described above under Certain CovenantsConsolidation, Merger, Conveyance, Transfer or Lease or any disposition that constitutes a Change of Control pursuant to the Indenture;
(c) the making of any Restricted Payment that is permitted to be made, and is made, under the covenant described above under Limitation on Restricted Payments or the making of any Permitted Investment;
(d) any disposition of assets or issuance or sale of Capital Interests in any Restricted Subsidiary in any transaction or series of related transactions with an aggregate Fair Market Value of less than $25 million;
(e) any disposition (including by liquidation) of property or assets or issuance of securities by a Restricted Subsidiary of the Company to the Company or by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary of the Company to another Restricted Subsidiary of the Company;
(f) to the extent allowable under Section 1031 of the Code or any comparable or successor provision, any exchange of like property (excluding any boot thereon) for use in a Similar Business;
(g) the lease, assignment or sub-lease of any real or personal property in the ordinary course of business;
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(h) any issuance or sale of Capital Interests in, or Debt or other securities of, an Unrestricted Subsidiary;
(i) foreclosures, condemnation or any similar action on assets or the granting of Liens not prohibited by the Indenture;
(j) the sale or discount of inventory, accounts receivable or notes receivable in the ordinary course of business or the conversion of accounts receivable to notes receivable;
(k) any financing transaction with respect to property built or acquired by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary after the Issue Date, including Sale and Leaseback Transactions and Permitted Securitization Transaction; and
(l) any sale or lease of services or licensing of intellectual property in the ordinary course of business.
Attributable Debt in respect of a Sale and Leaseback Transaction means, at the time of determination, the present value (discounted at the rate of interest implicit in such transaction) of the total obligations of the lessee for rental payments during the remaining term of the lease included in such Sale and Leaseback Transaction (including any period for which such lease has been extended).
Average Life means, as of any date of determination, with respect to any Debt, the quotient obtained by dividing (i) the sum of the products of (x) the number of years from the date of determination to the dates of each successive scheduled principal payment (including any sinking fund or mandatory redemption payment requirements) of such Debt multiplied by (y) the amount of such principal payment by (ii) the sum of all such principal payments.
Board of Directors means (i) with respect to a corporation, the board of directors of such corporation or any duly authorized committee thereof; and (ii) with respect to any other entity, the board of directors or similar body of the general partner or managers of such entity or any duly authorized committee thereof.
Capital Interests in any Person means any and all shares, interests (including Preferred Interests), participations or other equivalents in the equity interest (however designated) in such Person and any rights (other than Debt securities convertible or exchangeable into an equity interest), warrants or options to acquire an equity interest in such Person.
Capital Lease Obligations means any obligation under a lease that is required to be capitalized for financial reporting purposes in accordance with GAAP; and the amount of Debt represented by such obligation shall be the capitalized amount of such obligations determined in accordance with GAAP; and the Stated Maturity thereof shall be the date of the last payment of rent or any other amount due under such lease prior to the first date upon which such lease may be terminated by the lessee without payment of a penalty.
Change of Control means the occurrence of any of the following:
(1) the sale, lease, transfer, conveyance or other disposition, in one or a series of related transactions, of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company and its Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, to any Person, other than the Company or a Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary of the Company;
(2) the Company becomes aware (by way of a report or any other filing pursuant to Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act, proxy, vote, written notice or otherwise) of the acquisition by any Person or group (within the meaning of Section 13(d)(3) or Section 14(d)(2) of the Exchange Act, or any successor provision), including any group acting for the purpose of acquiring, holding or disposing of securities (within the meaning of Rule 13d-5(b)(1) under the Exchange Act or any successor provision), in a single transaction or in a series of related transactions, by way of merger, consolidation or other business combination or purchase of beneficial ownership (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act, or any successor provision) of 50% or more of the total voting power of the Voting Interests in the Company; or
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(3) during any period of 24 consecutive months, individuals who at the beginning of such period constituted the Board of Directors of the Company (together with any directors whose election by the Board of Directors or whose nomination for election by the equityholders of the Company was approved by a vote of a majority of the directors of the Company then still in office who were either directors at the beginning of such period or whose election or nomination for election was previously so approved) cease for any reason to constitute a majority of the Companys Board of Directors then in office.
Code means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended from time to time and the regulations promulgated thereunder.
Commission means the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Common Interests of any Person means Capital Interests in such Person that do not rank prior, as to the payment of dividends or as to the distribution of assets upon any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of such Person, to Capital Interests of any other class in such Person.
Company means Valassis Communications, Inc. and any successor thereto.
Consolidated Cash Flow Available for Fixed Charges means, with respect to any Person for any period:
(i) Consolidated Net Income plus the sum of, without duplication, the amounts for such period, taken as a single accounting period, to the extent deducted in such period in computing Consolidated Net Income, of:
(a) Consolidated Non-cash Charges;
(b) Consolidated Fixed Charges;
(c) Consolidated Income Tax Expense;
(d) impairment charges, including the write-down of Investments;
(e) restructuring expenses and charges;
(f) any expenses or charges related to any equity offering, Permitted Investment, recapitalization or Debt Incurrence permitted to be made under the Indenture (whether or not successful) or related to the Transactions;
(g) the amount of any interest expense attributable to minority equity interests of third parties in any non-wholly owned Subsidiary;
(h) any net loss from discontinued operations; and
(i) any costs or expenses incurred by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary pursuant to any management equity plan or stock option plan or any other management or employee benefit plan or agreement, any stock subscription or shareholder agreement, to the extent that such costs or expenses are funded with cash proceeds contributed to the capital of the Company or net cash proceeds of an issuance of Capital Interests of the Company (other than Redeemable Capital Interests); less
(ii) to the extent included in such period in computing Consolidated Net Income, (x) net income from discontinued operations and (y) the amount of extraordinary, non-recurring or unusual gains.
Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio means, with respect to any Person, the ratio of the aggregate amount of Consolidated Cash Flow Available for Fixed Charges of such Person for the four full fiscal quarters, treated as one period, for which financial information in respect thereof is available immediately preceding the date of the transaction (the Transaction Date) giving rise to the need to calculate the Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio (such four full fiscal quarter period being referred to herein as the Four Quarter Period) to the aggregate amount of Consolidated Fixed Charges of such Person for the Four Quarter Period. In addition to and without limitation of the foregoing, for purposes of determining the Consolidated Fixed Charge
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Coverage Ratio, Consolidated Cash Flow Available for Fixed Charges and Consolidated Fixed Charges shall be calculated after giving effect (i) to the cost of any compensation, remuneration or other benefit paid or provided to any employee, consultant, Affiliate or equity owner of the entity involved in any Asset Acquisition to the extent such costs are eliminated or reduced (or public announcement has been made of the intent to eliminate or reduce such costs) prior to the date of such calculation and not replaced; (ii) on a pro forma basis for the period of such calculation, to any Asset Sales or other dispositions or Asset Acquisitions, investments, mergers, consolidations and discontinued operations (as determined in accordance with GAAP) occurring during the Four Quarter Period or any time subsequent to the last day of the Four Quarter Period and on or prior to the Transaction Date, as if such Asset Sale or other disposition or Asset Acquisition (including the incurrence or assumption of any such Acquired Debt), investment, merger, consolidation or disposed operation occurred on the first day of the Four Quarter Period; and (iii) clause (i) of the definition of Consolidated Interest Expense shall mean the total interest expense of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period as determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP less the non-cash component of total interest expense. For purposes of this definition, pro forma calculations shall be made in accordance with Article 11 of Regulation S-X promulgated under the Securities Act.
Furthermore, in calculating Consolidated Fixed Charges for purposes of determining the denominator (but not the numerator) of this Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio:
(i) interest on outstanding Debt determined on a fluctuating basis as of the Transaction Date and which will continue to be so determined thereafter shall be deemed to have accrued at a fixed rate per annum equal to the rate of interest on such Debt in effect on the Transaction Date; and
(ii) if interest on any Debt actually incurred on the Transaction Date may optionally be determined at an interest rate based upon a factor of a prime or similar rate, a eurocurrency interbank offered rate, or other rates, then the interest rate in effect on the Transaction Date will be deemed to have been in effect during the Four Quarter Period.
If such Person or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries directly or indirectly Guarantees Debt of a third Person, the above clause shall give effect to the incurrence of such Guaranteed Debt as if such Person or such Subsidiary had directly incurred or otherwise assumed such Guaranteed Debt.
Consolidated Fixed Charges means, with respect to any Person for any period, the sum of, without duplication, the amounts for such period of:
(i) Consolidated Interest Expense; and
(ii) the product of (a) all dividends and other distributions paid or accrued during such period in respect of Redeemable Capital Interests of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries (other than dividends paid in Qualified Capital Interests), times (b) a fraction, the numerator of which is one and the denominator of which is one minus the then current combined federal, state and local statutory tax rate of such Person, expressed as a decimal.
Consolidated Income Tax Expense means, with respect to any Person for any period, the provision for federal, state, local and foreign income taxes of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period as determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP paid or accrued during such period, including any penalties and interest related to such taxes or arising from any tax examinations, to the extent the same were deducted in computing Consolidated Net Income.
Consolidated Interest Expense means, with respect to any Person for any period, without duplication, the sum of:
(i) the total interest expense of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period as determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP, including, without limitation:
(a) any amortization of Debt discount;
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(b) the net cost under any Hedging Obligation or Swap Contract in respect of interest rate protection (including any amortization of discounts);
(c) the interest portion of any deferred payment obligation;
(d) all commissions, discounts and other fees and charges owed with respect to letters of credit, bankers acceptances, financing activities or similar activities; and
(e) all accrued interest;
(ii) the interest component of Capital Lease Obligations paid, accrued and/or scheduled to be paid or accrued by such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries during such period determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP; and
(iii) all capitalized interest of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period;
less interest income of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period; provided, however, that Consolidated Interest Expense will exclude (I) the amortization or write off of Debt issuance costs and deferred financing fees, commissions, fees and expenses and (II) any expensing of interim loan commitment and other financing fees.
Consolidated Net Income means, with respect to any Person, for any period, the consolidated net income (or loss) of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period as determined in accordance with GAAP, adjusted, to the extent included in calculating such net income, by:
(A) excluding, without duplication
(i) all extraordinary gains or losses (net of fees and expenses relating to the transaction giving rise thereto), income, expenses or charges;
(ii) the portion of net income of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries allocable to minority interests in unconsolidated Persons or Investments in Unrestricted Subsidiaries to the extent that cash dividends or distributions have not actually been received by such Person or one of its Restricted Subsidiaries; provided that for the avoidance of doubt, Consolidated Net Income shall be increased in amounts equal to the amounts of cash actually received;
(iii) gains or losses in respect of any Asset Sales by such Person or one of its Restricted Subsidiaries (net of fees and expenses relating to the transaction giving rise thereto), on an after-tax basis;
(iv) the net income (loss) from any disposed or discontinued operations or any net gains or losses on disposed or discontinued operations, on an after-tax basis;
(v) solely for purposes of determining the amount available for Restricted Payments under clause (c) of the first paragraph of Certain CovenantsLimitation on Restricted Payments, the net income of any Restricted Subsidiary (other than a Guarantor) or such Person to the extent that the declaration of dividends or similar distributions by that Restricted Subsidiary of that income is not at the time permitted, directly or indirectly, by operation of the terms of its charter or any agreement, instrument, judgment, decree, order, statute, rule or governmental regulations applicable to that Restricted Subsidiary or its stockholders; provided that for the avoidance of doubt, Consolidated Net Income shall be increased in amounts equal to the amounts of cash actually received;
(vi) any gain or loss realized as a result of the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principles;
(vii) any fees and expenses paid in connection with the issuance of the Notes;
(viii) non-cash compensation expense incurred with any issuance of equity interests to an employee of such Person or any Restricted Subsidiary;
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(ix) any net after-tax gains or losses attributable to the early extinguishment or conversion of Debt;
(x) any non-cash impairment charges or asset write-off or write-down resulting from the application of Accounting Standards Codification 350, IntangiblesGoodwill and Other, Accounting Standards Codification 360, Property, Plant, and Equipment, and Accounting Standards Codification 805, Business Combinations;
(xi) non-cash gains, losses, income and expenses resulting from fair value accounting required by Accounting Standards Codification 815, Derivatives and Hedging, or any related subsequent Statement of Financial Accounting Standards;
(xii) accruals and reserves that are established within 12 months after the closing of any acquisition that are so required to be established as a result of such acquisition in accordance with GAAP;
(xiii) any fees, expenses, charges or Integration Costs incurred during such period, or any amortization thereof for such period, in connection with any acquisition, Investment, Asset Sale, disposition, Incurrence or repayment of Debt (including such fees, expenses or charges related to any Credit Facility), issuance of Capital Interests, refinancing transaction or amendment or modification of any Debt instrument, and including, in each case, any such transaction undertaken but not completed, and any charges or non-recurring merger or acquisition costs incurred during such period as a result of any such transaction, in each case whether or not successful;
(xiv) any net unrealized gain or loss (after any offset) resulting from currency translation gains or losses related to currency remeasurements of Debt (including any net gain or loss resulting from obligations under Swap Contracts or Hedging Obligations for currency exchange risk) and any foreign currency translation gains or losses;
(xv) any accruals and reserves that are established for expenses and losses, in respect of equity-based awards compensation expense (provided that if any such non-cash charges represent an accrual or reserve for potential cash items in any future period, the cash payment in respect thereof in such future period shall reduce Consolidated Net Income to such extent, and excluding amortization of a prepaid cash item that was paid in a prior period);
(xvi) any expenses, charges or losses that are covered by indemnification or other reimbursement provisions in connection with any Permitted Investment or any sale, conveyance, transfer or other disposition of assets permitted under the Indenture, to the extent actually reimbursed, or, so long as the Company has made a determination that a reasonable basis exists for indemnification or reimbursement and only to the extent that such amount is in fact indemnified or reimbursed within 365 days of such determination (with a deduction in the applicable future period for any amount so added back to the extent not so indemnified or reimbursed within such 365 days); and
(xvii) to the extent covered by insurance and actually reimbursed, or, so long as the Company has made a determination that there exists reasonable evidence that such amount will in fact be reimbursed by the insurer and only to the extent that such amount is in fact reimbursed within 365 days of the date of such determination (with a deduction in the applicable future period for any amount so added back to the extent not so reimbursed within such 365 days), expenses, charges or losses with respect to liability or casualty events or business interruption; and
(B) including, without duplication, dividends and distributions from Joint Ventures actually received in cash by the Company.
Consolidated Non-cash Charges means, with respect to any Person for any period, the aggregate depreciation, amortization (including amortization of goodwill, other intangibles, deferred financing fees, Debt issuance costs, commissions, fees and expenses) and other non-cash expenses of such Person and its Restricted
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Subsidiaries reducing Consolidated Net Income of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period, determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP (excluding any such charges constituting an extraordinary item or loss or any charge which requires an accrual of or a reserve for cash charges for any future period).
Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio means, with respect to any Person, the ratio of the aggregate amount of all Debt (net of unrestricted cash and Eligible Cash Equivalents) of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries at the end of the most recent fiscal period for which financial information in respect thereof is available immediately preceding the date of the transaction (the Transaction Date) giving rise to the need to calculate the Consolidated Total Leverage Ratio to the aggregate amount of Consolidated Cash Flow Available for Fixed Charges of such Person for the Four Quarter Period preceding the Transaction Date. In addition to and without limitation of the foregoing, for purposes of this definition, this ratio shall be calculated after giving effect (i) to the cost of any compensation, remuneration or other benefit paid or provided to any employee, consultant, Affiliate or equity owner of the entity involved in any Asset Acquisition to the extent such costs are eliminated or reduced (or public announcement has been made of the intent to eliminate or reduce such costs) prior to the date of such calculation and not replaced; and (ii) on a pro forma basis for the period of such calculation, to any Asset Sales or other dispositions or Asset Acquisitions, investments, mergers, consolidations and discontinued operations (as determined in accordance with GAAP) occurring during the Four Quarter Period or any time subsequent to the last day of the Four Quarter Period and on or prior to the Transaction Date, as if such Asset Sale or other disposition or Asset Acquisition (including the incurrence or assumption of any such Acquired Debt), investment, merger, consolidation or disposed operation occurred on the first day of the Four Quarter Period. For purposes of this definition, pro forma calculations shall be made in accordance with Article 11 of Regulation S-X promulgated under the Securities Act.
If such Person or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries directly or indirectly Guarantees Debt of a third Person, the above clause shall give effect to the incurrence of such Guaranteed Debt as if such Person or such Subsidiary had directly incurred or otherwise assumed such Guaranteed Debt.
Credit Agreement means the Companys Credit Agreement, dated as of March 2, 2007, by and among the Company, as borrower, the guarantors named therein and Bank of America, N.A., as syndication agent, Bear Stearns Corporate Lending Inc., as administrative agent, and the other agents and lenders named therein, as amended through the Issue Date, together with all related notes, letters of credit, collateral documents, guarantees, and any other related agreements and instruments executed and delivered in connection therewith, in each case as amended, modified, supplemented, restated, refinanced, refunded or replaced in whole or in part from time to time including by or pursuant to any agreement or instrument that extends the maturity of any Debt thereunder, or increases the amount of available borrowings thereunder (provided that such increase in borrowings is permitted under clause (i) of the definition of the term Permitted Debt), or adds Subsidiaries of the Company as additional borrowers or guarantors thereunder, in each case with respect to such agreement or any successor or replacement agreement and whether by the same or any other agent, lender, group of lenders, purchasers or Debt holders.
Credit Facilities means one or more debt facilities or commercial paper facilities, in each case with banks, other institutional lenders, financial institutions or debt investors providing for revolving credit loans, term loans, bridge loans, debt securities or one or more indentures or similar agreements, including any related bonds, notes, debentures, guarantees, collateral documents, instruments and agreements executed in connection therewith (including, without limitation, the Credit Agreement), in each case, as amended, restated, modified, renewed, refunded, replaced or refinanced, whether or not with the same party (including, without limitation, by means of sales of debt securities to institutional investors) in whole or in part from time to time; provided that Credit Facilities shall not include any Indebtedness existing on the Issue Date other than the Credit Agreement.
Debt means at any time (without duplication), with respect to any Person the following: (i) all indebtedness of such Person for money borrowed or for the deferred and unpaid purchase price of property, excluding any trade payables or other current liabilities incurred in the normal course of business; (ii) all
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obligations of such Person evidenced by bonds, debentures, notes, or other similar instruments; (iii) all reimbursement obligations of such Person with respect to letters of credit (other than letters of credit that are secured by cash or Eligible Cash Equivalents), bankers acceptances or similar facilities (excluding obligations in respect of letters of credit or bankers acceptances issued in respect of trade payables) issued for the account of such Person; provided that such obligations shall not constitute Debt except to the extent drawn and not repaid within five business days; (iv) all indebtedness created or arising under any conditional sale or other title retention agreement with respect to property or assets acquired by such Person; (v) all Capital Lease Obligations of such Person; (vi) the maximum fixed redemption or repurchase price of Redeemable Capital Interests in such Person at the time of determination; (vii) any Swap Contracts and Hedging Obligations of such Person at the time of determination; (viii) Attributable Debt with respect to any Sale and Leaseback Transaction to which such Person is a party; and (ix) all obligations of the types referred to in clauses (i) through (viii) of this definition of another Person, the payment of which, in either case, (A) such Person has Guaranteed or (B) is secured by (or the holder of such Debt or the recipient of such dividends or other distributions has an existing right, whether contingent or otherwise, to be secured by) any Lien upon the property or other assets of such Person, even though such Person has not assumed or become liable for the payment of such Debt. For purposes of the foregoing: (a) the maximum fixed repurchase price of any Redeemable Capital Interests that do not have a fixed repurchase price shall be calculated in accordance with the terms of such Redeemable Capital Interests as if such Redeemable Capital Interests were repurchased on any date on which Debt shall be required to be determined pursuant to the Indenture; provided, however, that, if such Redeemable Capital Interests are not then permitted to be repurchased, the repurchase price shall be the book value of such Redeemable Capital Interests; (b) the amount outstanding at any time of any Debt issued with original issue discount is the principal amount of such Debt less the remaining unamortized portion of the original issue discount of such Debt at such time as determined in conformity with GAAP, but such Debt shall be deemed Incurred only as of the date of original issuance thereof; (c) the amount of any Debt described in clause (vii) is the net amount payable (after giving effect to permitted set off) if such Swap Contracts or Hedging Obligations are terminated at that time due to default of such Person; (d) the amount of any Debt described in clause (ix)(A) above shall be the maximum liability under any such Guarantee; (e) the amount of any Debt described in clause (ix)(B) above shall be the lesser of (I) the maximum amount of the obligations so secured and (II) the Fair Market Value of such property or other assets; and (f) interest, fees, premium, and expenses and additional payments, if any, will not constitute Debt.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, in connection with the purchase by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary of any business, the term Debt will exclude (x) customary indemnification obligations and (y) post-closing payment adjustments to which the seller may become entitled to the extent such payment is determined by a final closing balance sheet or such payment is otherwise contingent; provided, however, that, at the time of closing, the amount of any such payment is not determinable and, to the extent such payment thereafter becomes fixed and finally determined, the amount is paid within 60 days thereafter.
The amount of Debt of any Person at any date shall be the outstanding balance at such date of all unconditional obligations as described above and the maximum liability, only upon the occurrence of the contingency giving rise to the obligations, of any contingent obligations at such date; provided, however, that in the case of Debt sold at a discount, the amount of such Debt at any time will be the accreted value thereof at such time.
Default means any event that is, or after notice or passage of time, or both, would be, an Event of Default.
Designated Non-cash Consideration means the Fair Market Value of non-cash consideration received by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary in connection with an Asset Sale that is so designated as Designated Non-cash Consideration pursuant to an Officers Certificate, setting forth the basis of such valuation, executed by the principal financial officer of the Company, less the amount of cash or Eligible Cash Equivalents received in connection with a subsequent sale of or collection on such Designated Non-cash Consideration.
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Domestic Restricted Subsidiary means any Restricted Subsidiary that is formed or otherwise incorporated in the United States or a State thereof or the District of Columbia (other than a Restricted Subsidiary the parent or indirect parent of which is not formed or otherwise incorporated in the United States or a State thereof or the District of Columbia) or a Restricted Subsidiary that guarantees or otherwise provides direct credit support for any Debt of the Company.
Eligible Bank means a bank or trust company (i) that is organized and existing under the laws of the United States of America or Canada, or any state, territory, province or possession thereof, (ii) that, as of the time of the making or acquisition of an Investment in such bank or trust company, has combined capital and surplus in excess of $500 million and (iii) the senior Debt of which is rated at least A-2 by Moodys or at least A by S&P.
Eligible Cash Equivalents means any of the following Investments: (i) securities issued or directly and fully guaranteed or insured by the United States or any agency or instrumentality thereof (provided that the full faith and credit of the United States is pledged in support thereof) maturing not more than one year after the date of acquisition; (ii) time deposits in and certificates of deposit of any Eligible Bank, provided that such Investments have a maturity date not more than two years after the date of acquisition and that the Average Life of all such Investments is one year or less from the respective dates of acquisition; (iii) repurchase obligations with a term of not more than 180 days for underlying securities of the types described in clause (i) above entered into with any Eligible Bank; (iv) direct obligations issued by any state of the United States or any political subdivision or public instrumentality thereof, provided that such Investments mature, or are subject to tender at the option of the holder thereof, within 365 days after the date of acquisition and, at the time of acquisition, have a rating of at least A from S&Ps or A-2 from Moodys (or an equivalent rating by any other nationally recognized rating agency); (v) commercial paper of any Person other than an Affiliate of the Company and other than structured investment vehicles, provided that such Investments have one of the two highest ratings obtainable from either S&Ps or Moodys and mature within 180 days after the date of acquisition; (vi) overnight and demand deposits in and bankers acceptances of any Eligible Bank, (vii) demand deposits in any bank or trust company to the extent insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation against the Bank Insurance Fund, (viii) in the case of a Restricted Subsidiary that is not a subsidiary formed or otherwise incorporated in the United States or a State thereof or the District of Columbia, demand deposits and time deposits that (a) are denominated in the currency of a country that is a member of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development or the currency of the country in which such Restricted Subsidiary is organized or conducts business and (b) are consistent with the Companys investment policy as in effect from time to time, provided that, in the case of time deposits, such Investments have a maturity date not more than two years after the date of acquisition and that the Average Life of all such time deposits is one year or less from the respective dates of acquisition; (ix) money market funds substantially all of the assets of which comprise Investments of the types described in clauses (i) through (vii); and (x) instruments equivalent to those referred to in clauses (i) through (vii) above or funds equivalent to those referred to in clause (ix) above (in each case which may be held by the Company) denominated in U.S. Dollars, Pounds Sterling or Euros or any other comparable foreign currency and comparable in credit quality and tender to those referred to in such clauses and customarily used by corporations for cash management purposes in jurisdictions outside the United States to the extent reasonably required in connection with any business conducted by the Company or by any Restricted Subsidiary organized in such jurisdictions, all as determined in good faith by the Company.
Exchange Act means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
Fair Market Value means, with respect to the consideration received or paid in any transaction or series of transactions, the fair market value thereof as determined in good faith by the Company. In the case of a transaction between the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary, on the one hand, and a Receivable Subsidiary, on the other hand, if the Board of Directors of the Company determines in its sole discretion that such determination is appropriate, a determination as to Fair Market Value may be made at the commencement of the transaction and be applicable to all dealings between the Receivable Subsidiary and the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary during the course of such transaction.
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Foreign Subsidiary means, with respect to any Person, any Restricted Subsidiary of such Person that is not organized or existing under the laws of the United States, any state thereof or the District of Columbia and any Restricted Subsidiary of such Foreign Subsidiary.
Four Quarter Period has the meaning set forth in the definition of Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio.
GAAP means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, consistently applied, as set forth in the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification and the rules and interpretations of the Commission under the authority of the federal securities laws, or in such other statements by such other entity as may be approved by a significant segment of the accounting profession of the United States, which are in effect as of the Issue Date irrespective of any subsequent change in such Accounting Standards Codification or other statements or any subsequent adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards.
Guarantee means, as applied to any Debt of another Person, (i) a guarantee (other than by endorsement of negotiable instruments for collection in the normal course of business), direct or indirect, in any manner, of any part or all of such Debt, (ii) any direct or indirect obligation, contingent or otherwise, of a Person guaranteeing or having the effect of guaranteeing the Debt of any other Person in any manner and (iii) an agreement of a Person, direct or indirect, contingent or otherwise, the practical effect of which is to assure in any way the payment (or payment of damages in the event of non-payment) of all or any part of such Debt of another Person (and Guaranteed and Guaranteeing shall have meanings that correspond to the foregoing).
Guarantor means any Person that executes a Note Guarantee in accordance with the provisions of the Indenture and their respective successors and assigns.
Hedging Obligations of any Person means the obligations of such Person pursuant to any interest rate agreement, currency agreement or commodity agreement, excluding commodity agreements relating to raw materials used in the ordinary course of the Companys business.
Holder means a Person in whose name a Note is registered in the security register. In connection with Notes issued in global book-entry form, DTC shall be treated for all purposes as the only registered holder of such Notes.
Incur means, with respect to any Debt or other obligation of any Person, to create, issue, incur (by conversion, exchange or otherwise), assume, Guarantee or otherwise become liable in respect of such Debt or other obligation or the recording, as required pursuant to GAAP or otherwise, of any such Debt or other obligation on the balance sheet of such Person; provided, however, that a change in GAAP or an interpretation thereunder that results in an obligation of such Person that exists at such time becoming Debt shall not be deemed an Incurrence of such Debt. Debt otherwise Incurred by a Person before it becomes a Subsidiary of the Company shall be deemed to be Incurred at the time at which such Person becomes a Subsidiary of the Company. Incurrence, Incurred, Incurrable and Incurring shall have meanings that correspond to the foregoing. A Guarantee by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary of Debt Incurred by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary, as applicable, shall not be a separate Incurrence of Debt. For the avoidance of doubt, Debt of a Restricted Subsidiary which is assumed by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary shall not be deemed to be a separate Incurrence of Debt. In addition, the following shall not be deemed a separate Incurrence of Debt:
(1) amortization of debt discount or accretion of principal with respect to a non-interest bearing or other discount security;
(2) the payment of regularly scheduled interest in the form of additional Debt of the same instrument or the payment of regularly scheduled dividends on Capital Interests in the form of additional Capital Interests of the same class and with the same terms;
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(3) the obligation to pay a premium in respect of Debt arising in connection with the issuance of a notice of redemption or making of a mandatory Change of Control Offer or Asset Sale Offer for such Debt; and
(4) unrealized losses or charges in respect of Hedging Obligations.
Integration Costs means, with respect to any acquisition, all costs relating to the acquisition and integration of the acquired business or operations into the Company, including labor costs, legal fees, consulting fees, travel costs and any other expenses relating to the integration process.
Investment by any Person means any direct or indirect loan, advance (or other extension of credit) or capital contribution to (by means of any transfer of cash or other property or assets to another Person or any other payments for property or services for the account or use of another Person) another Person, including, without limitation, the following: (i) the purchase or acquisition of any Capital Interest or other evidence of beneficial ownership in another Person; (ii) the purchase, acquisition or Guarantee of the Debt of another Person; and (iii) the purchase or acquisition of the business or assets of another Person substantially as an entirety but shall exclude: (a) accounts receivable and other extensions of trade credit in accordance with the Companys and its Restricted Subsidiaries customary practices; (b) the acquisition of property and assets from suppliers and other vendors in the normal course of business; and (c) prepaid expenses and workers compensation, utility, lease and similar deposits, in the normal course of business.
Investment Grade Rating means a rating equal to or higher than Baa3 (or the equivalent) by Moodys and BBB- (or the equivalent) by S&P, or an equivalent rating by any other Rating Agency.
Investment Grade Securities means:
(1) securities issued or directly and fully guaranteed or insured by the United States government or any agency or instrumentality thereof (other than Eligible Cash Equivalents);
(2) debt securities or debt instruments with an Investment Grade Rating, but excluding any debt securities or instruments constituting loans or advances among the Company and its Subsidiaries;
(3) investments in any fund that invests exclusively in investments of the type described in clauses (1) and (2) which fund may also hold immaterial amounts of cash pending investment or distribution; and
(4) corresponding instruments in countries other than the United States customarily utilized for high quality investments.
Issue Date means the date the Notes are originally issued under the Indenture.
Lien means, with respect to any property or other asset, any mortgage, deed of trust, deed to secure Debt, pledge, hypothecation, assignment, deposit arrangement, security interest, lien (statutory or otherwise), charge, easement, encumbrance, preference, priority or other security agreement or preferential arrangement of any kind or nature whatsoever on or with respect to such property or other asset (including, without limitation, any conditional sale or other title retention agreement having substantially the same economic effect as any of the foregoing).
Joint Venture means any joint venture entity, whether a company, unincorporated firm, association, partnership or any other entity which, in each case, is not a Subsidiary of the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries but in which the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary has a direct or indirect equity or similar interest.
Moodys means Moodys Investors Service, Inc. and any successor to its rating agency business.
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Net Proceeds means the aggregate cash proceeds received by the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries in respect of any Asset Sale, including any cash received upon the sale or other disposition of any Designated Non-cash Consideration received in any Asset Sale, net of the direct costs relating to such Asset Sale and the sale or disposition of such Designated Non-cash Consideration, including legal, accounting and investment banking fees, and brokerage and sales commissions, any relocation expenses incurred as a result thereof, taxes paid or payable as a result thereof (after taking into account any available tax credits or deductions and any tax sharing arrangements), amounts required to be applied to the repayment of principal, premium, if any, and interest on senior Debt required (other than required by clause (a) of the second paragraph of Repurchase at the Option of HoldersAsset Sales) to be paid as a result of such transaction and any deduction of appropriate amounts to be provided by the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries as a reserve in accordance with GAAP against any liabilities associated with the asset disposed of in such transaction and retained by the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries after such sale or other disposition thereof, including pension and other post-employment benefit liabilities and liabilities related to environmental matters or against any indemnification obligations associated with such transaction.
Non-Recourse Receivable Subsidiary Indebtedness has the meaning set forth in the definition of Receivable Subsidiary.
obligations means any principal, premium, interest (including any interest accruing subsequent to the filing of a petition in bankruptcy, reorganization or similar proceeding at the rate provided for in the documentation with respect thereto, whether or not such interest is an allowed claim under applicable state, federal or foreign law), penalties, fees, indemnifications, reimbursements (including reimbursement obligations with respect to letters of credit and bankers acceptances), damages and other liabilities, and guarantees of payment of such principal, interest, penalties, fees, indemnifications, reimbursements, damages and other liabilities, payable under the documentation governing any Debt.
Officers Certificate means a certificate signed by two officers of the Company or a Guarantor, as applicable, one of whom must be the principal executive officer, the principal financial officer or the principal accounting officer of the Company or such Guarantor, as applicable.
Permitted Asset Swap means the purchase and sale or exchange (within a 180-day period) of Related Business Assets or a combination of Related Business Assets and cash or Eligible Cash Equivalents between the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries and another Person; provided that any cash or Eligible Cash Equivalents received must be applied in accordance with the covenant described under Repurchase at the Option of HoldersAsset Sales.
Permitted Debt means:
(i) Debt Incurred pursuant to any Credit Facilities in an aggregate principal amount at any one time outstanding not to exceed an amount equal to the greater of (x) $1.25 billion and (y) 3.5 times the aggregate amount of Consolidated Cash Flow Available for Fixed Charges for the Four Quarter Period immediately preceding the date of the Incurrence;
(ii) Debt under the Notes issued on the Issue Date (or any exchange Notes issued in exchange therefore in connection with the registration rights agreement entered into on the Issue Date) and contribution, indemnification and reimbursement obligations (including without limitation those to the Trustee) owed by the Company or any Guarantor to any of the other of them in respect of amounts paid or payable on such Notes;
(iii) Guarantees of the Notes;
(iv) Debt of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary outstanding on the Issue Date (other than clauses (i), (ii) or (iii) above);
(v) Debt owed to and held by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary;
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(vi) Guarantees Incurred by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary of Debt otherwise permitted to be incurred under the Indenture;
(vii) Guarantees by any Restricted Subsidiary of Debt of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary, including Guarantees by any Restricted Subsidiary of Debt under the Credit Agreement, provided that (a) such Debt is Permitted Debt or is otherwise Incurred in accordance with the Limitation on Incurrence of Debt covenant and (b) such Guarantees are subordinated to the Notes to the same extent as the Debt being guaranteed;
(viii) Debt incurred in respect of workers compensation claims and self-insurance obligations, and, for the avoidance of doubt, indemnity, bid, performance, warranty, release, bankers acceptances, appeal, surety and similar bonds, letters of credit for operating purposes and completion guarantees provided or incurred (including Guarantees thereof) by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary in the ordinary course of business;
(ix) Debt under Swap Contracts and Hedging Obligations (excluding Swap Contracts and Hedging Obligations entered into for speculative purposes);
(x) the Incurrence by a Restricted Subsidiary of the Company of Acquired Debt that was outstanding on the date that such Restricted Subsidiary was acquired, directly or indirectly, by the Company; provided that (a) such Restricted Subsidiary Incurred such Debt prior to the date that the Company directly or indirectly acquired such Restricted Subsidiary, (b) such Debt was not incurred in connection with, or in contemplation of, such acquisition, and (c) the Companys Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio immediately following such acquisition and Incurrence would be not less than the Companys Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio immediately prior to such acquisition and Incurrence;
(xi) Debt owed by the Company to any Restricted Subsidiary; provided that if for any reason such Debt ceases to be held by a Restricted Subsidiary such Debt shall cease to be Permitted Debt and shall be deemed Incurred as Debt of the Company for purposes of the Indenture;
(xii) Debt of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary pursuant to Capital Lease Obligations and Purchase Money Debt; provided that the aggregate principal amount of such Debt outstanding at any time may not exceed the greater of (a) 5% of the Total Assets of the Company as of the end of the most recently completed fiscal quarter for which financial information is available and (b) $50 million in the aggregate;
(xiii) Debt arising from agreements of the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary providing for guarantees, indemnification, contribution, earnout, adjustment of purchase price or similar obligations, in each case, incurred or assumed in connection with the acquisition or disposition of any business, assets or Capital Interests of a Restricted Subsidiary otherwise permitted under the Indenture;
(xiv) the issuance by any of the Companys Restricted Subsidiaries to the Company or to any of its Restricted Subsidiaries of shares of Preferred Interests; provided, however, that:
(a) any subsequent issuance or transfer of Capital Interests that results in any such Preferred Interests being held by a Person other than the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary; and
(b) any sale or other transfer of any such Preferred Interests to a Person that is not either the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary;
shall be deemed, in each case, to constitute an issuance of such Preferred Interests by such Restricted Subsidiary that was not permitted by this clause (xiv);
(xv) Debt arising from the honoring by a bank or other financial institution of a check, draft or similar instrument drawn against insufficient funds in the ordinary course of business; provided, however, that such Debt is extinguished within ten business days of Incurrence;
(xvi) Debt of the Company or any of the Guarantors evidenced by promissory notes that are subordinated in right of payment to the Notes or the Note Guarantees issued to former, current or future directors, officers, employees or consultants of the Company or any of its Guarantors (or their respective spouses) in lieu of cash payments for Capital Interests being repurchased from such Person;
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(xvii) Debt of the Company to the extent the net proceeds thereof are promptly deposited to defease the Notes as described under Satisfaction and Discharge of the Indenture; Defeasance;
(xviii) Debt of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries representing obligations under any employment arrangements to make payments with respect to the cancellation or repurchase of Capital Interests of the Company or its Restricted Subsidiaries in an aggregate amount not to exceed $2 million outstanding at any one time;
(xix) Debt owed to any Person providing property, casualty or liability insurance to the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries (including any state insurance guarantee funds relating to any such insurance policy), so long as such Indebtedness shall not be in excess of the amount of the unpaid cost of, and shall incurred only to defer the cost of, such insurance for the year in which such Debt is Incurred and such Debt shall be outstanding only during such year;
(xx) Debt of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary (other than Foreign Subsidiaries) in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $150 million at any time outstanding (which amount may, but need not, be incurred in whole or in part under the Credit Facilities);
(xxi) Debt of Foreign Subsidiaries in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $50 million at any time outstanding; and
(xxii) Refinancing Debt.
Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, Debt permitted under clauses (i), (xii), (xvii), (xviii), (xix), (xx) and (xxi) of this definition of Permitted Debt shall not constitute Refinancing Debt under clause (xxii) of this definition of Permitted Debt.
In addition, for purposes of determining the Consolidated Cash Flow Available for Fixed Charges for purposes of clause (i) of this definition of Permitted Debt Consolidated Cash Flow Available for Fixed Charges shall be calculated after giving effect on a pro forma basis (in accordance with Article 11 of Regulation S-X promulgated under the Securities Act) for the period of such calculation, to any Asset Sales or other dispositions or Asset Acquisitions, investments, mergers, consolidations and discontinued operations (as determined in accordance with GAAP) occurring during the Four Quarter Period or any time subsequent to the last day of the Four Quarter Period and on or prior to the date such Debt is to be Incurred, as if such Asset Sale or other disposition or Asset Acquisition (including the incurrence or assumption of any such Acquired Debt), investment, merger, consolidation or disposed operation occurred on the first day of the Four Quarter Period.
Permitted Investments means:
(a) Investments in existence on the Issue Date;
(b) Investments required pursuant to any agreement or obligation of the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary, in effect on the Issue Date, to make such Investments;
(c) Investments in cash and Eligible Cash Equivalents;
(d) Investments in property and other assets, owned or used by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary in the normal course of business;
(e) Investments by the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries in the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary;
(f) Investments by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary in a Person, if as a result of such Investment (A) such Person becomes a Restricted Subsidiary or (B) such Person is merged, consolidated or amalgamated with or into, or transfers or conveys substantially all of its assets to, or is liquidated or wound-up into, the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary;
(g) Swap Contracts and Hedging Obligations;
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(h) receivables owing to the Company or any of its subsidiaries and advances to suppliers, in each case if created, acquired or made in the ordinary course of business and payable or dischargeable in accordance with customary trade terms;
(i) any Investments received in compromise or resolution of (a) obligations of trade creditors, suppliers or customers that were incurred in the ordinary course of business of the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries, including pursuant to any plan of reorganization or similar arrangement upon the bankruptcy or insolvency of any trade creditor, supplier or customer; or (b) litigation, arbitration or other disputes with Persons who are not Affiliates;
(j) Investments by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary in an aggregate amount not to exceed the greater of (i) $90 million and (ii) 5% of the Total Assets of the Company as of the end of the then most recently completed fiscal quarter for which financial information is available at any one time outstanding;
(k) loans or advances to employees, directors and officers of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary made in the ordinary course of business for bona fide business purposes not in excess of $20 million at any one time outstanding;
(l) Investments the payment for which consists solely of Qualified Capital Interests of the Company;
(m) payroll, travel and similar advances to cover matters that are expected at the time of such advances ultimately to be treated as expenses for accounting purposes and that are made in the ordinary course of business and consistent with past practice;
(n) guarantees by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary of Debt of the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary of Debt otherwise permitted by the covenant described under Certain CovenantsLimitation on Incurrence of Debt;
(o) Investments in the ordinary course of business consisting of the licensing or contribution of intellectual property pursuant to joint marketing arrangements with other Persons;
(p) Investments in Joint Ventures;
(q) Investments in securities or other assets not constituting cash, Eligible Cash Equivalents or Investment Grade Securities and received in connection with an Asset Sale made pursuant to the provision described under Repurchase at the Option of HolderAsset Sales or any other disposition of assets not constituting an Asset Sale;
(r) Investments by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary in a Securitization Entity or any Investment by a Securitization Entity in any other Person, in each case, in connection with a Permitted Securitization Transaction; provided, however, that the foregoing Investment is in the form of a Purchase Money Note or Capital Interests; and
(s) Investments in prepaid expenses, negotiable instruments held for collection and lease, utility and workers compensation, performance and other similar deposits provided to third parties in the ordinary course of business.
Permitted Liens means:
(a) Liens existing on the Issue Date;
(b) Liens in favor of the Company or the Guarantors;
(c) Liens that secure Credit Facilities (including in respect of Treasury Management Agreements) incurred pursuant to clause (i) of the definition of Permitted Debt (and any related Hedging Obligations and Swap Contracts permitted under the agreement related thereto);
(d) any Lien for taxes, assessments or other governmental charges or levies not then due and payable (or which, if due and payable, are being contested in good faith and for which adequate reserves are being maintained, to the extent required by GAAP);
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(e) any warehousemens, materialmens, landlords or other similar Liens arising by law for sums not then due and payable (or which, if due and payable, are being contested in good faith and with respect to which adequate reserves are being maintained, to the extent required by GAAP);
(f) survey exceptions, encumbrances, easements or reservations of, or rights of others for, licenses, rights-of-way, sewers, electric lines, telephone lines and other similar purposes, or zoning or other similar restrictions as to the use of real properties or Liens incidental to the conduct of the business of such Person or to the ownership of its properties which do not individually or in the aggregate materially adversely affect the value of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries taken as a whole or materially impair the operation of the business of such Person;
(g) Liens, pledges or deposits (i) in connection with workers compensation, unemployment insurance and other types of statutory obligations or the requirements of any official body; (ii) to secure the performance of tenders, bids, surety or performance bonds, leases, purchase, construction, sales or servicing contracts (including utility contracts) and other similar obligations Incurred in the normal course of business consistent with industry practice; (iii) to obtain or secure obligations with respect to letters of credit, Guarantees, bonds or other sureties or assurances given in connection with the activities described in clauses (i) and (ii) above, in each case not Incurred or made in connection with the borrowing of money, the obtaining of advances or credit or the payment of the deferred purchase price of property or services or imposed by ERISA or the Code in connection with a plan (as defined in ERISA); or (iv) arising in connection with any attachment unless such Liens shall not be satisfied or discharged or stayed pending appeal within 60 days after the entry thereof or the expiration of any such stay;
(h) Liens (including Liens securing Acquired Debt) on property or assets of a Person existing at the time such Person is acquired or merged with or into or consolidated with the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary, or becomes a Restricted Subsidiary (and not created or Incurred in anticipation of such transaction); provided that such Liens are not extended to the property and assets of the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries other than the property or assets acquired;
(i) Liens securing Debt of a Restricted Subsidiary owed to and held by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary thereof;
(j) for the avoidance of doubt, other Liens (not securing Debt) incidental to the conduct of the business of the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries, as the case may be, or the ownership of their assets which do not individually or in the aggregate materially adversely affect the value of the Company or materially impair the operation of the business of the Company or its Restricted Subsidiaries;
(k) Liens to secure any permitted extension, renewal, refinancing or refunding (or successive extensions, renewals, refinancings or refundings), in whole or in part, of any Debt secured by Liens referred to in clauses (a), (c), (h), (q), (r) and (ee) hereof; provided that such Liens do not extend to any other property or assets and the principal amount of the obligations secured by such Liens is not increased;
(l) Liens in favor of customs or revenue authorities arising as a matter of law to secure payment of custom duties in connection with the importation of goods incurred in the ordinary course of business;
(m) licenses of intellectual property granted in the ordinary course of business;
(n) Liens to secure Capital Lease Obligations and Purchase Money Debt permitted to be incurred pursuant to clause (xii) of the definition of Permitted Debt; provided that such Liens do not extend to or cover any assets other than such assets acquired or constructed after the Issue Date with the proceeds of such Capital Lease Obligation or Purchase Money Debt;
(o) Liens on assets transferred to a Securitization Entity or an asset of a Securitization Entity, in either case, incurred in connection with a Permitted Securitization Transaction;
(p) Liens upon specific items of inventory or other goods and proceeds of any Person securing such Persons obligation in respect of bankers acceptances issued or created in the ordinary course of business for the account of such Person to facilitate the purchase, shipment, or storage of such inventory or other goods;
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(q) Liens securing Debt Incurred to finance the construction, purchase or lease of, or repairs, improvements or additions to, property, plant or equipment of such Person; provided, however, that the Lien may not extend to any property owned by such Person or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries at the time the Lien is Incurred (other than assets and property affixed or appurtenant thereto and any proceeds thereof), and the Debt (other than any interest thereon) secured by the Lien may not be Incurred more than 180 days after the later of the acquisition, completion of construction, repair, improvement, addition or commencement of full operation of the property subject to the Lien;
(r) Liens on property or shares of Capital Interests of another Person at the time such other Person becomes a Subsidiary of such Person (including Liens that secure Debt of such Subsidiary); provided, however, that (i) the Liens may not extend to any other property owned by such Person or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries (other than assets and property affixed or appurtenant thereto) and (ii) such Liens are not created or incurred in connection with, or in contemplation of, such other Person becoming such a Restricted Subsidiary;
(s) Liens (i) that are contractual rights of set-off (A) relating to the establishment of depository relations with banks not given in connection with the issuance of Debt, (B) relating to pooled deposit or sweep accounts of the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to permit satisfaction of overdraft or similar obligations and other cash management activities incurred in the ordinary course of business of the Company and or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries or (C) relating to purchase orders and other agreements entered into with customers of the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries in the ordinary course of business and (ii) of a collection bank arising under Section 4-210 of the Uniform Commercial Code on items in the course of collection, (Y) encumbering reasonable customary initial deposits and margin deposits and attaching to commodity trading accounts or other brokerage accounts incurred in the ordinary course of business, and (Z) in favor of banking institutions arising as a matter of law or pursuant to customary account agreements encumbering deposits (including the right of set-off) and which are within the general parameters customary in the banking industry;
(t) Liens securing judgments for the payment of money not constituting an Event of Default under clause (6) under the caption Events of Default so long as such Liens are adequately bonded and any appropriate legal proceedings that may have been duly initiated for the review of such judgment have not been finally terminated or the period within which such proceedings may be initiated has not expired;
(u) leases, subleases, licenses or sublicenses granted to others in the ordinary course of business which do not materially interfere with the ordinary conduct of the business of the Company or any Restricted Subsidiaries and do not secure any Debt and those arising from filing Uniform Commercial Code financing statements relating thereto;
(v) any interest of title of an owner of equipment or inventory on loan or consignment to the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries and Liens arising from Uniform Commercial Code financing statement filings regarding operating leases entered into by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary in the ordinary course of business;
(w) deposits in the ordinary course of business to secure liability to insurance carriers;
(x) Liens securing the Notes and the Note Guarantees;
(y) Liens securing Hedging Obligations and Swap Contracts so long as any related Debt is permitted to be Incurred under the Indenture;
(z) options, put and call arrangements, rights of first refusal and similar rights relating to Investment in Joint Ventures, partnerships and the like permitted to be made under the Indenture;
(aa) Liens pursuant to the terms and conditions of any contracts between the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary and the U.S. government;
(bb) Liens on assets of a Restricted Subsidiary of the Company that is not a Guarantor to secure Debt of such Restricted Subsidiary that is otherwise permitted under the Indenture;
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(cc) Liens securing Debt Incurred pursuant to clause (xix) of the definition of Permitted Debt; provided that such Liens extend only to the insurance policy and proceeds thereof financed by such Debt;
(dd) Liens encumbering deposits made to secure obligations arising from statutory, regulatory, contractual, or warranty requirements of the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries, including rights of offset and set off; and
(ee) Liens in an aggregate amount not to exceed $150 million at any one time outstanding.
Permitted Securitization Transaction means any transaction or series of transactions that qualify for off-balance sheet treatment in accordance with SFAS 140 or other applicable accounting pronouncements, pursuant to which the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries may sell, contribute, convey or otherwise transfer to (i) a Securitization Entity (in the case of a transfer by the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries) and (ii) any other Person (in the case of a transfer by a Securitization Entity), or may grant a security interest in, any accounts receivable or chattel paper (whether now existing or arising in the future) of the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries, and any assets directly related thereto, including, without limitation, all collateral securing such accounts receivable, and other assets (including contract rights and all guarantees or other obligations in respect of such accounts receivable or chattel paper, proceeds of such accounts receivable or chattel paper and other assets which are customarily transferred or in respect of which security interests are customarily granted in connection with asset securitization transactions involving accounts receivable or chattel paper).
Person means any individual, corporation, limited liability company, partnership, Joint Venture, trust, unincorporated organization or government or any agency or political subdivision thereof.
Preferred Interests, as applied to the Capital Interests in any Person, means Capital Interests in such Person of any class or classes (however designated) that rank prior, as to the payment of dividends or as to the distribution of assets upon any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of such Person, to shares of Common Interests in such Person.
Purchase Money Debt means Debt:
(i) Incurred to finance the purchase or construction (including additions and improvements thereto) of any assets (other than Capital Interests) of such Person or any Restricted Subsidiary; and
(ii) that is secured by a Lien on such assets where the lenders sole security is to the assets so purchased or constructed; and in either case that does not exceed 100% of the cost and to the extent the purchase or construction prices for such assets are or should be included in addition to property, plant or equipment in accordance with GAAP.
Purchase Money Note means a promissory note of a Securitization Entity evidencing a line of credit, which may be irrevocable, from the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary of the Company in connection with a Permitted Securitization Transaction to a Securitization Entity, which note is repayable from cash available to such Securitization Entity, other than amounts required to be established as reserves pursuant to contractual arrangements with entities that are not Affiliates of such Securitization Entity entered into as part of such Permitted Securitization Transaction, amounts paid to investors in respect of interest, principal and other amounts owing to such investors and amounts paid in connection with the purchase of newly generated accounts receivable.
Qualified Capital Interests in any Person means a class of Capital Interests other than Redeemable Capital Interests.
Qualified Equity Offering means (i) a public equity offering of Qualified Capital Interests pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act or (ii) a private equity offering of Qualified Capital
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Interests of the Company, or any direct or indirect parent company of the Company other than (x) any such public or private sale to an entity that is a Subsidiary of the Company and (y) any public offerings registered on Form S-8; provided that, in the case of an offering or sale by a direct or indirect parent company of the Company, such parent company contributes to the capital of the Company the portion of the net cash proceeds of such offering or sale necessary to pay the aggregate Redemption Price (plus accrued interest to the redemption date) of the Notes to be redeemed pursuant to the provisions described under the third paragraph of Optional Redemption.
Rating Agency means (1) each of Moodys and S&P and (2) if Moodys or S&P ceases to rate the Notes for reasons outside of the Companys control, a nationally recognized statistical rating organization as defined in Section 3 of the Exchange Act selected by the Company or any parent of the Company as a replacement agency for Moodys or S&P, as the case may be.
Redeemable Capital Interests in any Person means any equity security of such Person that by its terms (or by terms of any security into which it is convertible or for which it is exchangeable), or otherwise (including the passage of time or the happening of an event), is required to be redeemed, is redeemable at the option of the holder thereof in whole or in part (including by operation of a sinking fund), or is convertible or exchangeable for Debt of such Person at the option of the holder thereof, in whole or in part, at any time prior to the Stated Maturity of the Notes; provided that only the portion of such equity security which is required to be redeemed, is so convertible or exchangeable or is so redeemable at the option of the holder thereof before such date will be deemed to be Redeemable Capital Interests. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, any equity security that would constitute Redeemable Capital Interests solely because the holders of the equity security have the right to require the Company to repurchase such equity security upon the occurrence of a change of control or an asset sale will not constitute Redeemable Capital Interests if the terms of such equity security provide that the Company may not repurchase or redeem any such equity security pursuant to such provisions unless such repurchase or redemption complies with the covenant described above under the caption Certain Covenants Limitation on Restricted Payments. The amount of Redeemable Capital Interests deemed to be outstanding at any time for purposes of the Indenture will be the maximum amount that the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries may become obligated to pay upon the maturity of, or pursuant to any mandatory redemption provisions of, such Redeemable Capital Interests or portion thereof, exclusive of accrued dividends.
Redemption Price, when used with respect to any Note to be redeemed, means the price at which it is to be redeemed pursuant to the Indenture.
Refinancing Debt means Debt that refunds, refinances, repays, prepays, redeems, retires, renews, replaces, extends or defeases, whether in whole or in part, any Debt permitted to be Incurred by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary pursuant to the terms of the Indenture, whether involving the same or any other lender or creditor or group of lenders or creditors, but only to the extent that:
(i) such Refinancing Debt is subordinated to the Notes or any Note Guarantee thereof to at least the same extent as the Debt being refunded, refinanced, renewed, replaced, extended or defeased, if such Debt was subordinated to the Notes or any Note Guarantee thereof;
(ii) the Refinancing Debt is scheduled to mature either (a) no earlier than the Debt being refunded, refinanced or extended or (b) at least 91 days after the maturity date of the Notes;
(iii) the Refinancing Debt has an Average Life at the time such Refinancing Debt is Incurred that is equal to or greater than the Average Life of the Debt being refunded, refinanced, renewed, replaced or extended or defeased;
(iv) such Refinancing Debt is in an aggregate principal amount that is less than or equal to the sum of (a) the aggregate principal or accreted amount (in the case of any Debt issued with original issue discount, as such) then outstanding under the Debt being refunded, refinanced, renewed, replaced or extended, (b) the amount of accrued and unpaid interest, if any, and premiums owed, if any, not in excess of preexisting
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prepayment provisions on such Debt being refunded, refinanced, renewed, replaced or extended and (c) the amount of reasonable and customary fees, expenses and costs related to the Incurrence of such Refinancing Debt; and
(v) such Refinancing Debt is Incurred by the same Person (or its successor) that initially Incurred the Debt being refunded, refinanced, renewed, replaced, extended or defeased, except that the Company may Incur Refinancing Debt to refund, refinance, renew, replace, extend or defease Debt of any Restricted Subsidiary of the Company.
Related Business Assets means assets (other than cash or Eligible Cash Equivalents) used or useful in the business of the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries; provided that any assets received by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary in exchange for assets transferred by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary will not be deemed to be Related Business Assets if they consist of securities of a Person, unless upon receipt of the securities of such Person, such Person would become a Restricted Subsidiary.
Restricted Payment is defined to mean any of the following:
(a) any dividend or other distribution declared and paid on the Capital Interests in the Company or on the Capital Interests in any Restricted Subsidiary of the Company that are held by, or declared and paid to, any Person other than the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary of the Company, other than
(i) dividends, distributions or payments made solely in Qualified Capital Interests in the Company, and
(ii) dividends or distributions payable to the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary of the Company or to other holders of Capital Interests of a Restricted Subsidiary on a pro rata basis);
(b) any payment made by the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to purchase, redeem, defease or otherwise acquire or retire any Capital Interests in the Company (including the conversion into, or exchange for, Debt, of any Capital Interests) other than any such Capital Interests owned by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary (other than a payment made solely in Qualified Capital Interests in the Company);
(c) any payment made by the Company or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries (other than a payment made solely in Qualified Capital Interests in the Company) to redeem, repurchase, defease (including in substance or legal defeasance) or otherwise acquire or retire (including pursuant to mandatory repurchase covenants), prior to any scheduled maturity, scheduled sinking fund or mandatory redemption payment, Debt of the Company or any Guarantor that is subordinate in right of payment to the Notes or Note Guarantees (excluding any Debt owed to the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary); except payments of principal and interest in anticipation of satisfying a sinking fund obligation, principal installment or final maturity, in each case, within one year of the due date thereof;
(d) any Investment by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary in any Person, other than a Permitted Investment; and
(e) any designation of a Restricted Subsidiary as an Unrestricted Subsidiary.
Restricted Subsidiary means any Subsidiary (including any Foreign Subsidiary) that has not been designated as an Unrestricted Subsidiary in accordance with the Indenture.
Sale and Leaseback Transaction means any direct or indirect arrangement pursuant to which property is sold or transferred by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary and is thereafter leased back as a capital lease by the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary.
Securitization Entity means a Wholly Owned Unrestricted Subsidiary of the Company that engages in no activities other than in connection with the financing of accounts receivable, chattel paper and related assets and
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that is designated by the Board of Directors of the Company (as provided below) as a Securitization Entity (a) no portion of the Indebtedness or any other obligations (contingent or otherwise) of which (i) is guaranteed by the Company or any other Restricted Subsidiary of the Company (excluding guarantees of Obligations (other than the principal of, and interest on, Indebtedness) pursuant to Standard Securitization Undertakings), (ii) is recourse to or obligates the Company or any other Restricted Subsidiary of the Company in any way other than pursuant to Standard Securitization Undertakings or (iii) subjects any property or assets of the Company or any other Restricted Subsidiary of the Company, directly or indirectly, contingently or otherwise, to the satisfaction thereof, other than pursuant to Standard Securitization Undertakings, (b) with which neither the Company nor any other Restricted Subsidiary of the Company has any material contract, agreement, arrangement or understanding other than on terms no less favorable to the Company or such Restricted Subsidiary than those that might be obtained at the time from Persons that are not Affiliates of the Company, and (c) to which neither the Company nor any Restricted Subsidiary of the Company (other than such entity) has any obligation to maintain or preserve such entitys financial condition or cause such entity to achieve certain levels of operating results. Any such designation by the Board of Directors of the Company shall be evidenced to the Trustee by filing with the Trustee a copy of the Board Resolution giving effect to such designation and an officers certificate certifying that such designation complied with the foregoing provisions.
Significant Subsidiary has the meaning set forth in Rule 1-02 of Regulation S-X promulgated under the Securities Act, but shall not include any Unrestricted Subsidiary.
Similar Business means any business conducted or proposed to be conducted by the Company and its Restricted Subsidiaries on the Issue Date or any business that is similar, reasonably related, incidental or ancillary thereto.
S&P means Standard & Poors, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc., and any successor to its rating agency business.
Standard Securitization Undertakings means representations, warranties, covenants and indemnities entered into by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary which are reasonably customary in an accounts receivable securitization transaction as determined in good faith by the Company, including Guarantees by the Company or any Restricted Subsidiary of any of the foregoing obligations of the Company or a Restricted Subsidiary.
Stated Maturity, when used with respect to (i) any Note or any installment of interest thereon, means the date specified in such Note as the fixed date on which the principal amount of such Note or such installment of interest is due and payable and (ii) any other Debt or any installment of interest thereon, means the date specified in the instrument governing such Debt as the fixed date on which the principal of such Debt or such installment of interest is due and payable.
Subsidiary means, with respect to any Person, any corporation, limited or general partnership, trust, association or other business entity of which an aggregate of at least a majority of the outstanding Capital Interests therein is, at the time, directly or indirectly, owned by such Person and/or one or more Subsidiaries of such Person.
Swap Contract means (a) any and all rate swap transactions, basis swaps, credit derivative transactions, forward rate transactions, commodity swaps, commodity options, forward commodity contracts, equity or equity index swaps, options or other equity derivatives, bond or bond price or bond index swaps or options or forward bond or forward bond price or forward bond index transactions, interest rate options, forward foreign exchange transactions, cap transactions, floor transactions, collar transactions, currency swap transactions, cross-currency rate swap transactions, currency options, spot contracts, or any other similar transactions or any combination of any of the foregoing, whether or not any such transaction is governed by or subject to any master agreement, and (b) any and all transactions of any kind, and the related confirmations, which are subject to the terms and
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conditions of, or governed by, any form of master agreement published by the International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc., any International Foreign Exchange Master Agreement, or any other master agreement (any such master agreement, together with any related schedules, a Master Agreement), including any such obligations or liabilities under any Master Agreement.
Total Assets means, with respect to any Person, the total assets of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries on a consolidated basis, as shown on the most recent consolidated balance sheet of the Company or such other Person as may be expressly stated (excluding settlement assets, as shown on such balance sheet).
Transactions means (i) the offering of the Notes, (ii) the tendering for and purchasing or otherwise acquiring the 2015 Notes and consent solicitation and (iii) the payment of all fees and expenses related thereto, and the transactions related thereto.
Treasury Management Agreements means any and all agreements governing the provision of treasury or cash management services, including, deposit accounts, funds transfer, automated clearinghouse, zero balance accounts, returned check concentration, controlled disbursement, lockbox, account reconciliation and reporting and trade finance services and other agreements related to treasury or cash management services.
Treasury Rate means with respect to the Notes, as of the applicable redemption date, the yield to maturity as of such redemption date of United States Treasury securities with a constant maturity (as compiled and published in the most recent Federal Reserve Statistical Release H.15 (519) that has become publicly available at least two business days prior to such redemption date (or, if such Statistical Release is no longer published, any publicly available source of similar market data)) most nearly equal to the period from such redemption date to February 1, 2016; provided, however, that if the period from such redemption date to February 1, 2016 is less than one year, the weekly average yield on actually traded United States Treasury securities adjusted to a constant maturity of one year will be used.
Unrestricted Subsidiary means:
(1) any Subsidiary designated as such by an Officers Certificate as set forth below where neither the Company nor any of its Restricted Subsidiaries (i) provides credit support for, or Guarantee of, any Debt of such Subsidiary or any Subsidiary of such Subsidiary (including any undertaking, agreement or instrument evidencing such Debt, but excluding, in the case of a Securitization Entity, any Standard Securitization Undertakings) or (ii) is directly or indirectly liable for any Debt of such Subsidiary or any Subsidiary of such Subsidiary (except, in the case of a Securitization Entity, any Standard Securitization Undertakings); and
(2) any Subsidiary of an Unrestricted Subsidiary.
Voting Interests means, with respect to any Person, securities of any class or classes of Capital Interests in such Person, taking into account the voting power of such securities, entitling the holders thereof generally to vote on the election of members of the Board of Directors or comparable body of such Person.
Wholly Owned Restricted Subsidiary of any Person means any Wholly Owned Subsidiary of such Person which at the time of determination is a Restricted Subsidiary of such Person.
Wholly Owned Subsidiary of any Person means any Subsidiary of such Person of which all the outstanding voting securities (other than in the case of a Foreign Subsidiary, directors qualifying shares or an immaterial amount of shares required to be owned by other Persons pursuant to applicable law) are owned by such Person or any Wholly Owned Subsidiary of such Person.
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Purpose and Effect of the Exchange Offer
The exchange notes to be issued in the exchange offer will be exchanged for our original notes that we issued on January 28, 2011. On that date, we issued $260.0 million aggregate principal amount of 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021. We issued the original notes in reliance upon an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act. Concurrently, the initial purchasers of the original notes resold the original notes to investors believed to be qualified institutional buyers in reliance upon the exemption from registration provided by Rule 144A under the Securities Act and to non-U.S. persons in offshore transactions in reliance upon the exemption provided by Regulation S of the Securities Act. In connection with the sale of the original notes, we entered into a registration rights agreement with the initial purchasers of the original notes pursuant to which we agreed to:
| file with the SEC a registration statement under the Securities Act with respect to the issuance of the exchange notes in an exchange offer within 180 days after the date of issuance of the original notes; |
| use commercially reasonable efforts to cause that registration statement to become effective under the Securities Act within 240 days after the date of issuance of the original notes; and |
| use commercially reasonable efforts to consummate the exchange offer within 30 business days after the effective date of the registration statement. |
The foregoing description of the registration rights agreement is subject to, and qualified in its entirety by reference to, the registration rights agreement, a copy of which has been filed as an exhibit to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on February 3, 2011 and is incorporated by reference herein.
We are making the exchange offer in reliance on the position of the SEC as set forth in certain no-action letters. However, we have not sought our own no-action letter. Based upon these interpretations by the SEC, we believe that a holder of exchange notes who exchanges original notes for exchange notes in the exchange offer generally may offer the exchange notes for resale, sell the exchange notes and otherwise transfer the exchange notes without further registration under the Securities Act and without delivery of a prospectus that satisfies the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act. This does not apply, however, to a holder who is our affiliate within the meaning of Rule 405 of the Securities Act. We also believe that a holder may offer, sell or transfer the exchange notes only if the holder acknowledges that the holder is acquiring the exchange notes in the ordinary course of its business and is not participating, does not intend to participate and has no arrangement or understanding with any person to participate in a distribution of the exchange notes.
Any holder of the original notes using the exchange offer to participate in a distribution of exchange notes cannot rely on the no-action letters referred to above. In the event that our belief regarding resale is inaccurate, if you transfer exchange notes in violation of the prospectus delivery provisions of the Securities Act and without an exemption from registration under the federal securities laws, you may incur liability under these laws. We do not assume or indemnify you against this liability. Any broker-dealer who holds original notes acquired for its own account as a result of market-making activities or other trading activities and who receives exchange notes in exchange for such original notes pursuant to the exchange offer may be a statutory underwriter and must deliver a prospectus meeting the requirements of the Securities Act in connection with any resale of such exchange notes. See Plan of Distribution.
Each broker-dealer that receives exchange notes for its own account in exchange for original notes, where such original notes were acquired by such broker-dealer as a result of market-making activities or other trading activities, must acknowledge that it will deliver a prospectus in connection with any resale of such exchange notes. This prospectus, as it may be amended or supplemented from time to time, may be used by a broker-dealer in connection with resales of exchange notes received in exchange for original notes where such original notes were acquired by such broker-dealer as a result of market-making activities or other trading activities. The letter
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of transmittal states that by acknowledging and delivering a prospectus, a broker-dealer will not be considered to admit that it is an underwriter within the meaning of the Securities Act. We have agreed that, for a period of up to 180 days after the date this registration statement is declared effective, we will make this prospectus available to any broker-dealer upon request for use in connection with any such resale. See Plan of Distribution.
Except as described above, this prospectus may not be used for an offer to resell, resale or other transfer of exchange notes.
Any holder of original notes who is our affiliate, who would not acquire the exchange notes in the ordinary course of business, who intends to participate in the exchange offer for the purpose of distributing the exchange notes, or is a broker dealer who purchased the original notes directly from us:
| will not be able to rely on the interpretations of the staff of the SEC set forth in the no-action letters described above; and |
| must comply with the registration and prospectus delivery requirements of the Securities Act in connection with any sale or transfer of the exchange notes, unless the sale or transfer is made pursuant to an exemption from those requirements. |
The exchange offer is not being made to, nor will we accept tenders for exchange from, holders of original notes in any jurisdiction in which the exchange offer or the acceptance of it would not be in compliance with the securities or blue sky laws of such jurisdiction.
If we do not comply with the provisions described above, or if, in certain circumstances, we do not file a shelf registration statement within certain specified time periods, and in certain other circumstances, additional cash interest, or Liquidated Damages, will accrue on the affected notes. The rate of Liquidated Damages will be 0.25% per annum on the principal amount of the original notes for the first 90-day period immediately following the occurrence of the event requiring payment of Liquidated Damages, or the Registration Default, increasing by an additional 0.25% per annum, with respect to each subsequent 90-day period, up to a maximum amount of additional interest of 1.00% per annum on the principal amount of the original notes, until the earlier of (1) the date on which all Registration Defaults have been cured or (2) the date on which all the notes otherwise become freely transferable by holders other than our affiliates without further registration under the Securities Act.
Terms of the Exchange Offer
Upon the terms and subject to the conditions of the exchange offer, we will accept any and all original notes validly tendered prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the expiration date for the exchange offer. Promptly after the expiration date (unless extended as described in this prospectus), we will issue an aggregate principal amount of up to $260.0 million of exchange notes for a like principal amount of outstanding original notes tendered and accepted in connection with the exchange offer. The exchange notes issued in connection with the exchange offer will be delivered promptly after the expiration date. Holders may tender some or all of their original notes in connection with the exchange offer, but only in $1,000 increments of principal amount.
The terms of the exchange notes will be identical in all material respects to the terms of the original notes, except that the exchange notes will have been registered under the Securities Act and will be issued free from any covenant regarding registration, including the payment of additional interest upon a failure to file or have declared effective an exchange offer registration statement or to complete the exchange offer by certain dates. The exchange notes will evidence the same debt as the original notes and will be issued under the same indenture and entitled to the same benefits under that indenture as the original notes being exchanged. As of the date of this prospectus, $260.0 million in aggregate principal amount of the original notes were outstanding.
In connection with the issuance of the original notes, we arranged for the original notes purchased by qualified institutional buyers and those sold in reliance on Regulation S under the Securities Act to be issued and
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transferable in book-entry form through the facilities of The Depository Trust Company, or DTC, acting as depositary. Except as described under Description of the NotesBook-Entry, Delivery and Form, exchange notes will be issued in the form of a global note registered in the name of DTC or its nominee and each beneficial owners interest in it will be transferable in book-entry form through DTC. See Description of the NotesBook-Entry, Delivery and Form.
Holders of original notes do not have any appraisal or dissenters rights in connection with the exchange offer. Original notes which are not tendered for exchange or are tendered but not accepted in connection with the exchange offer will remain outstanding and be entitled to the benefits of the indenture under which such original notes were issued, but certain registration and other rights under the registration rights agreement relating to the original notes will terminate and holders of the original notes will generally not be entitled to any registration rights under the registration rights agreement. See Consequences to Holders of Original Notes Not Tendering in the Exchange Offer.
We shall be considered to have accepted validly tendered original notes if and when we have given oral (to be followed by prompt written communication) or written notice to the exchange agent. The exchange agent will act as agent for the tendering holders for the purposes of receiving the exchange notes from us.
If any tendered original notes are not accepted for exchange because of an invalid tender, the occurrence of certain other events described in this prospectus or otherwise, we will return the original notes, without expense, to the tendering holder promptly after the expiration date for the exchange offer.
Holders who tender original notes will not be required to pay brokerage commissions or fees or, subject to the instructions in the letter of transmittal, transfer taxes on exchange of original notes in connection with the exchange offer. We will pay all charges and expenses, other than certain applicable taxes described below, in connection with the exchange offer. See Fees and Expenses.
Consequences to Holders of Original Notes Not Tendering in the Exchange Offer
Issuance of the exchange notes in exchange for the original notes under the exchange offer will be made only after timely receipt by the exchange agent of a properly completed and duly executed letter of transmittal (or an agents message from DTC) and the certificate(s) representing such original notes (or confirmation of book-entry transfer), and all other required documents. Therefore, holders of the original notes desiring to tender such original notes in exchange for exchange notes should allow sufficient time to ensure timely delivery. We are under no duty to give notification of defects or irregularities of tenders of original notes for exchange. Original notes that are not tendered or that are tendered but not accepted by us will, following completion of the exchange offer, continue to be subject to the existing restrictions upon transfer thereof under the Securities Act, and, upon completion of the exchange offer, certain registration rights under the registration rights agreement will terminate.
In the event the exchange offer is completed, we generally will not be required to register the remaining original notes, subject to limited exceptions. Remaining original notes will continue to be subject to the following restrictions on transfer:
| the remaining original notes may be resold only if registered pursuant to the Securities Act, if any exemption from registration is available, or if neither such registration nor such exemption is required by law; and |
| the remaining original notes will bear a legend restricting transfer in the absence of registration or an exemption. |
We do not currently anticipate that we will register the remaining original notes under the Securities Act. To the extent that original notes are tendered and accepted in connection with the exchange offer, any trading market
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for remaining original notes could be adversely affected. See Risk FactorsRisks Related to the Exchange OfferIf you fail to exchange your original notes, they will continue to be restricted securities and may become less liquid.
Expiration Date; Extensions; Amendments
The expiration date for the exchange offer is 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on , 2011, the twenty-first full business day following commencement of the exchange offer, unless extended by us in our sole discretion, in which case the term expiration date shall mean the latest date and time to which the exchange offer is extended.
We reserve the right, in our sole discretion:
| to delay accepting any original notes, to extend the exchange offer or to terminate the exchange offer if, in our reasonable judgment, any of the conditions described below shall not have been satisfied, by giving oral (to be followed by prompt written communication) or written notice of the delay, extension or termination to the exchange agent; or |
| to amend the terms of the exchange offer in any manner. |
If we amend the exchange offer in a manner that we consider material, we will promptly disclose the amendment by means of a prospectus supplement and we will extend the exchange offer, if necessary, so that a period of at least five business days remain in the exchange offer following notice of the material change.
Without limiting the manner in which we may choose to make a public announcement of any delay, extension, amendment, or termination of the exchange offer, we will have no obligation to publish, advertise, or otherwise communicate that public announcement, other than by making a timely release to an appropriate news agency.
Upon satisfaction or waiver of all the conditions to the exchange offer, we will accept, promptly after the expiration date of the exchange offer, all original notes properly tendered and not properly withdrawn and will promptly issue the exchange notes. See Conditions to the Exchange Offer below. For purposes of the exchange offer, we will be deemed to have accepted properly tendered original notes for exchange when, as and if we will have given oral or written notice of our acceptance to the exchange agent, with written confirmation of any oral notice to be given promptly thereafter.
Interest on the Exchange Notes
The exchange notes will bear interest at the rate of 6 5/8% per annum from the most recent date to which interest on the original notes has been paid or, if no interest has been paid on such original notes, from and including January 28, 2011. Interest will be payable semiannually in arrears on February 1 and August 1 of each year, commencing on August 1, 2011.
Conditions to the Exchange Offer
Notwithstanding any other term of the exchange offer, we will not be required to accept for exchange, or to exchange any exchange notes for, any original notes and may terminate the exchange offer as provided in this prospectus before the acceptance of the original notes, if prior to the expiration date:
| any action or proceeding is instituted or threatened in any court or by or before any governmental agency relating to the exchange offer which, in our reasonable judgment, might materially impair our ability to proceed with the exchange offer or the contemplated benefits of the exchange offer to us, or any material adverse development has occurred in any existing action or proceeding relating to us or any of our subsidiaries; |
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| any change, or any development involving a prospective change, in our business or financial affairs or any of our subsidiaries has occurred which, in our reasonable judgment, might materially impair our ability to proceed with the exchange offer or materially impair the contemplated benefits of the exchange offer to us; |
| any law, statute, rule, regulation or interpretation by the staff of the SEC is proposed, adopted or enacted which in our reasonable judgment might materially impair our ability to proceed with the exchange offer; |
| any governmental or regulatory approval has not been obtained, which approval we, in our reasonable discretion, consider necessary for the completion of the exchange offer as contemplated by this prospectus; or |
| any material adverse change has occurred in the securities or finance markets in the United States. |
If we determine in our reasonable discretion that any of the above conditions are not satisfied, we may (i) refuse to accept any original notes and return all tendered original notes to the tendering holders, (ii) extend the exchange offer and retain all original notes tendered prior to the expiration of the exchange offer, subject, however, to the rights of holders to withdraw those original notes (see Withdrawal of Tenders) or (iii) waive the unsatisfied conditions with respect to the exchange offer and accept all properly tendered original notes which have not been withdrawn.
Procedures for Tendering
Unless the tender is being made in book-entry form, to tender in the exchange offer, a holder must:
| complete, sign and date the letter of transmittal, or a facsimile of it, in accordance with its instructions; |
| have the signatures guaranteed if required by the letter of transmittal; and |
| mail or otherwise deliver the signed letter of transmittal or the signed facsimile, the original notes and any other required documents to the exchange agent prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the expiration date. |
Any financial institution that is a participant in DTCs Book-Entry Transfer Facility system may make book-entry delivery of the original notes by causing DTC to transfer the original notes into the exchange agents account. To validly tender original notes through DTC, the financial institution that is a participant in DTC will electronically transmit its acceptance through the Automatic Tender Offer Program. DTC will then edit and verify the acceptance, execute a book-entry transfer of the tendered original notes into the applicable account of the exchange agent at DTC and then send to the exchange agent confirmation of such book-entry transfer. The confirmation of such book-entry transfer will include an agents message stating that DTC has received an express acknowledgment from the participant in DTC tendering the original notes that the participant has received and agrees to be bound by the terms of the letter of transmittal and that we may enforce the terms of the letter of transmittal against the participant. A tender of original notes through a book-entry transfer into the exchange agents account will only be effective if an agents message or the letter of transmittal (or facsimile) with any required signature guarantees and any other required documents are transmitted to and received or confirmed by the exchange agent at the address set forth below under the caption Exchange Agent, prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the expiration date unless the guaranteed delivery procedures described below under Guaranteed Delivery Procedures are complied with. Delivery of documents to DTC in accordance with its procedures does not constitute delivery to the exchange agent.
The method of delivery of original notes and the letter of transmittal and all other required documents to the exchange agent is at the election and risk of the holders. Instead of delivery by mail, we recommend that holders use an overnight or hand delivery service. In all cases, holders should allow
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sufficient time to assure delivery to the exchange agent before the expiration date. No letter of transmittal or original notes should be sent to us. Holders may request their respective brokers, dealers, commercial banks, trust companies or nominees to effect the tenders for such holders.
Any beneficial owner whose original notes are registered in the name of a broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company or other nominee and who wishes to tender should contact the registered holder promptly and instruct such registered holder to tender on behalf of the beneficial owner. If the beneficial owner wishes to tender on that owners own behalf, the owner must, prior to completing and executing the letter of transmittal and delivery of such owners original notes, either make appropriate arrangements to register ownership of the original notes in the owners name or obtain a properly completed bond power from the registered holder. The transfer of registered ownership may take considerable time.
Signature on a letter of transmittal or a notice of withdrawal must be guaranteed by an eligible guarantor institution within the meaning of Rule 17Ad-15 under the Exchange Act, unless the original notes tendered pursuant thereto are tendered:
| by a registered holder who has not completed the box entitled Special Issuance Instructions or Special Delivery Instructions on the letter of transmittal; or |
| for the account of an eligible guarantor institution. |
In the event that signatures on a letter or transmittal or a notice of withdrawal are required to be guaranteed, such guarantee must be by:
| a member firm of a registered national securities exchange or of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority; |
| a commercial bank or trust company having an office or correspondent in the United States; or |
| an eligible guarantor institution. |
If the letter of transmittal is signed by a person other than the registered holder of any original notes, the original notes must be endorsed by the registered holder or accompanied by a properly completed bond power, in each case signed or endorsed in blank by the registered holder.
If the letter of transmittal or any original notes or bond powers are signed or endorsed by trustees, executors, administrators, guardians, attorneys-in-fact, officers of corporations or others acting in a fiduciary or representative capacity, such persons should so indicate when signing and, unless waived by us, submit evidence satisfactory to us of their authority to act in that capacity with the letter of transmittal.
We will determine all questions as to the validity, form, eligibility (including time of receipt) and acceptance and withdrawal of tendered original notes in our sole discretion. We reserve the absolute right to reject any and all original notes not properly tendered or any original notes whose acceptance by us would, in the opinion of our counsel, be unlawful. We also reserve the right to waive any defects, irregularities or conditions of tender as to any particular original notes either before or after the expiration date. Our interpretation of the terms and conditions of the exchange offer (including the instructions in the letter of transmittal) will be final and binding on all parties. Unless waived, any defects or irregularities in connection with tenders of original notes must be cured within a time period we will determine. Although we intend to request the exchange agent to notify holders of defects or irregularities relating to tenders of original notes, neither we, the exchange agent nor any other person will have any duty or incur any liability for failure to give such notification. Tenders of original notes will not be considered to have been made until such defects or irregularities have been cured or waived. Any original notes received by the exchange agent that are not properly tendered and as to which the defects or irregularities have not been cured or waived will be returned by the exchange agent to the tendering holders, unless otherwise provided in the letter of transmittal, promptly following the expiration date.
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In addition, we reserve the right, as set forth above under the caption Conditions to the Exchange Offer, to terminate the exchange offer.
Effect of Tendering Original Notes
By tendering original notes pursuant to the exchange offer, you will be representing and acknowledging to us that, among other things:
| you have full power and authority to tender, sell, assign and transfer the original notes you are tendering and that we will acquire good and unencumbered title thereto, free and clear of all liens, restrictions, charges and encumbrances and not subject to any adverse claim when the same are accepted by us; |
| you are acquiring the exchange notes in the ordinary course of your business; |
| if you are a broker-dealer, that you will receive exchange notes for your own account in exchange for original notes that were acquired as a result of market-making or other trading activities, and that you will deliver a prospectus in connection with any resale of such exchange notes (see Plan of Distribution); |
| you do not have an arrangement or understanding with anyone to participate in a distribution of the exchange notes; and |
| you are not our affiliate or an affiliate of any subsidiary guarantor within the meaning of Rule 405 under the Securities Act. |
The tender of original notes by a holder and our acceptance thereof will constitute an agreement between the holder and us in accordance with the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this prospectus and in the letter of transmittal or exchange agents message.
Guaranteed Delivery Procedures
If you wish to tender your original notes and (i) your original notes are not immediately available, (ii) you cannot deliver your original notes, the letter of transmittal or any other required documents to the exchange agent prior to the expiration of the exchange offer or (iii) you cannot complete the procedures for book-entry transfer prior to the expiration of the exchange offer, you may effect a tender if:
| the tender is made through an eligible guarantor institution, which is defined above under Procedures for Tendering; |
| prior to the expiration of the exchange offer, the exchange agent receives from the eligible guarantor institution a properly completed and duly executed notice of guaranteed delivery, in substantially the same form as the notice of guaranteed delivery accompanying this prospectus, by facsimile transmission, mail or hand delivery setting forth the name and address of the holder, the certificate number(s) of the original notes, if any, and the principal amount of original notes tendered, stating that the tender is being made thereby and guaranteeing that, within three New York Stock Exchange trading days after the expiration date, the letter of transmittal or facsimile thereof properly completed and duly executed, with any required signature guarantee, or, in lieu thereof, an agents message from DTC, together with the certificate(s) representing the original notes or a confirmation of book-entry transfer of the original notes into the exchange agents account at DTC, and any other documents required by the letter of transmittal will be deposited by the eligible guarantor institution with the exchange agent; and |
| the properly completed and duly executed letter of transmittal or facsimile thereof with any required signature guarantee, or in lieu thereof, an agents message from DTC, as well as the certificate(s) representing all tendered original notes in proper form for transfer or a confirmation of book-entry |
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transfer of the original notes into the exchange agents account at DTC, and all other documents required by the letter of transmittal are received by the exchange agent within three New York Stock Exchange trading days after the expiration date. |
Withdrawal of Tenders
Except as otherwise provided herein, tenders of original notes may be withdrawn at any time prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the expiration date.
To withdraw a tender of original notes in connection with the exchange offer, a written or facsimile transmission notice of withdrawal, in substantially the same form as the notice of withdrawal accompanying this prospectus, must be received by the exchange agent at its address set forth herein prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the expiration date. Any such notice of withdrawal must:
| specify the name of the person who deposited the original notes to be withdrawn; |
| identify the original notes to be withdrawn (including the certificate number(s), if any, and principal amount of such original notes); |
| be signed by the depositor in the same manner as the original signature on the letter of transmittal by which such original notes were tendered (including any required signature guarantees) or be accompanied by documents of transfer sufficient to have the trustee register the transfer of such original notes into the name of the person withdrawing the tender; and |
| specify the name in which any such original notes are to be registered, if different from that of the depositor. |
If original notes have been tendered pursuant to the procedure for book-entry transfer, any notice of withdrawal must specify the name and number of the account at DTC to be credited with the withdrawn original notes or otherwise comply with DTCs procedures. We will determine all questions as to the validity, form and eligibility (including time of receipt) of such withdrawal notices. Any original notes so withdrawn will be considered not to have been validly tendered for purposes of the exchange offer, and no exchange notes will be issued unless the original notes withdrawn are validly re-tendered. Any original notes which have been tendered but which are not accepted for exchange or which are withdrawn will be returned to the holder without cost to such holder promptly after withdrawal, rejection of tender or termination of the exchange offer. Properly withdrawn original notes may be re- tendered by following one of the procedures described above under Procedures for Tendering at any time prior to the expiration date.
Exchange Agent
Wells Fargo Bank, National Association has been appointed as exchange agent in connection with the exchange offer. Questions and requests for assistance, as well as requests for additional copies of this prospectus or of the letter of transmittal, should be directed to the exchange agent addressed as follows:
By registered mail or certified mail: | By regular mail or overnight courier: | By hand: | ||
Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Corporate Trust Operations Minneapolis, MN 55480-1517 |
Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Corporate Trust Operations Sixth Street & Marquette Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55479 |
Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Northstar East Building - Corporate Trust Services 608 Second Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55402 |
By facsimile (eligible institutions only): (612) 667-6282
Telephone Inquiries: (800) 344-5128
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Delivery of the letter of transmittal to an address other than as listed above or transmission via facsimile other than as listed above will not constitute a valid delivery of the letter of transmittal. Originals of all documents sent by facsimile should be sent promptly by registered or certified mail, by hand or overnight delivery service.
Fees and Expenses
We will not make any payment to brokers, dealers or others soliciting acceptances of the exchange offer. We will pay certain other expenses to be incurred in connection with the exchange offer, including the fees and expenses of the exchange agent and certain accounting and legal fees.
Holders who tender their original notes for exchange will not be obligated to pay transfer taxes. If, however:
| exchange notes are to be delivered to, or issued in the name of, any person other than the registered holder of the original notes tendered; |
| tendered original notes are registered in the name of any person other than the person signing the letter of transmittal; or |
| a transfer tax is imposed for any reason other than the exchange of original notes in connection with the exchange offer; |
then the amount of any such transfer taxes (whether imposed on the registered holder or any other persons) will be payable by the tendering holder. If satisfactory evidence of payment of such taxes or exemption from them is not submitted with the letter of transmittal, the amount of such transfer taxes will be billed directly to the tendering holder.
Accounting Treatment
The exchange notes will be recorded at the same carrying value as the original notes as reflected in our accounting records on the date of the exchange. Accordingly, we will not recognize any gain or loss for accounting purposes upon the completion of the exchange offer. The expenses of the exchange offer that we pay will increase our deferred financing costs in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
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MATERIAL UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS
The following discussion is a summary of material United States federal income tax consequences relevant to the exchange of original notes for the exchange notes and the ownership and disposition of the exchange notes by the beneficial owners thereof, or the holders. This discussion is limited to the tax consequences to the holders of exchange notes who acquire the exchange notes in exchange for original notes that were acquired at the issue price within the meaning of Section 1273 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the Code, and does not address the tax consequences to holders who acquire their exchange notes in exchange for subsequently purchased original notes or to subsequent purchasers of exchange notes. This summary does not purport to be a complete analysis of all of the potential United States federal income tax consequences relating to the exchange of original notes for the exchange notes and the ownership and disposition of the exchange notes, nor does this summary describe any federal estate tax consequences. There can be no assurance that the Internal Revenue Service, or the IRS, will take a similar view of the tax consequences described herein. Furthermore, this discussion does not address all aspects of taxation that might be relevant to particular holders in light of their individual circumstances. For instance, this discussion does not address the alternative minimum tax provisions of the Code or special rules applicable to certain categories of holders (including dealers in securities or foreign currencies, insurance companies, real estate investment trusts, regulated investment companies, financial institutions, tax-exempt entities, holders whose functional currency is not the United States dollar and, except, to the extent discussed below, foreign holders (as defined below)) or to holders who hold the exchange notes as part of a hedge, conversion or constructive sale transaction or other risk reduction transaction.
This discussion is based on the provisions of the Code, the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder, and administrative and judicial interpretations thereof, all as in effect as of the date hereof and all of which are subject to change (possibly with retroactive effect). The discussion below assumes that holders hold the exchange notes as capital assets within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Code.
If a partnership, or an entity treated as a partnership for United States federal income tax purposes, holds any exchange notes, the tax treatment of such entity and each partner will generally depend on the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. Partnerships and their partners should consult their tax advisors regarding the tax consequences of owning exchange notes.
EACH PROSPECTIVE INVESTOR IS URGED TO CONSULT SUCH INVESTORS TAX ADVISOR AS TO THE SPECIFIC TAX CONSEQUENCES OF AN ACQUISITION OF EXCHANGE NOTES IN LIGHT OF SUCH INVESTORS PARTICULAR TAX SITUATION, INCLUDING THE APPLICATION AND EFFECT OF THE CODE, AS WELL AS STATE, LOCAL AND FOREIGN INCOME AND OTHER TAX LAWS.
Tax Consequences to United States Holders
The following summary is a general description of material United States federal income tax consequences applicable to a United States holder. For the purpose of this discussion, United States holder means a holder of an exchange note, which holder is for United States federal income tax purposes (i) a citizen or resident of the United States, (ii) a corporation, or other entity treated as a corporation for United States federal income tax purposes, created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or of any political subdivision thereof (including the District of Columbia), (iii) an estate, the income of which is subject to United States federal income taxation regardless of its source, or (iv) a trust, if (A) the administration of the trust is subject to the primary supervision of a court within the United States and one or more United States persons has the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust, or (B) it was in existence on August 20, 1996, and has a valid election in place to be a United States person.
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Payments of Interest
Interest paid on an exchange note will generally be taxable to a United States holder as ordinary interest income at the time the interest accrues or is received in accordance with the United States holders method of accounting for United States federal income tax purposes.
Sale, Exchange, Redemption or Retirement of the Notes: General
In general, upon the sale, exchange, redemption or retirement of an exchange note, a United States holder will recognize capital gain or loss equal to the difference between the amount realized on such sale, exchange, redemption or retirement (not including any amount attributable to accrued but unpaid interest that the United States holder has not already included in gross income) and such holders adjusted tax basis in the exchange note. To the extent attributable to accrued but unpaid interest that the United States holder has not already included in gross income, the amount recognized by the United States holder will be treated as a payment of interest. See Tax Consequences to United States HoldersPayments of Interest above.
The excess of net long-term capital gains over net short-term capital losses is subject to tax at a lower rate for noncorporate taxpayers. Noncorporate taxpayers are generally subject to a maximum tax rate of 15% (for all taxable years ending on or before December 31, 2012) on capital gain realized on the disposition of a capital asset (including an exchange note) held for more than one year. The distinction between capital gain or loss and ordinary income or loss is also relevant for purposes of, among other things, limitations on the deductibility of capital losses.
Exchange Offer
The exchange of an original note for an exchange note pursuant to the exchange offer will not be taxable to the exchanging holder for United States federal income tax purposes. As a result, an exchanging holder:
| will not recognize any gain or loss on the exchange; |
| will have a holding period for the exchange note that includes the holding period for the original note exchanged therefor; |
| will have an adjusted tax basis in the exchange note equal to its adjusted tax basis in the original note exchanged therefor; and |
| will experience tax consequences upon a subsequent sale, exchange, redemption or retirement of an exchange note as described above. |
The exchange offer is not expected to result in any material United States federal income tax consequences to a nonexchanging holder.
Tax Consequences to Foreign Holders
The following summary is a general description of material United States federal income tax consequences to a foreign holder. A foreign holder means, for purposes of this discussion, a holder (other than a partnership, or other entity treated as a partnership for United States federal income tax purposes) that is not a United States holder. Special rules may apply to certain foreign holders such as controlled foreign corporations, passive foreign investment companies and certain United States individuals that are expatriates and such foreign holders should consult their tax advisors.
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Interest
Assuming that a foreign holders interest income on an exchange note is not effectively connected with the conduct by such holder of a trade or business in the United States, payments of interest on such exchange note by us or any paying agent to a foreign holder will not be subject to United States federal income tax or withholding tax, provided that:
| such holder does not own, actually or constructively, 10% or more of the total combined voting power of all classes of our stock entitled to vote; |
| such holder is not, for United States federal income tax purposes, a controlled foreign corporation related, directly or indirectly, to us through stock ownership; |
| such holder is not a bank receiving interest on an extension of credit made pursuant to a loan agreement entered into in the ordinary course of its trade or business within the meaning of Section 881(c)(3)(A) of the Code; and |
| the certification requirements under Code Section 871(h) or 881(c) and Treasury Regulations thereunder (summarized below) are met. |
Payments of interest on an exchange note that do not satisfy all of the foregoing requirements are generally subject to United States federal income tax and withholding tax at a flat rate of 30% (or a lower applicable treaty rate, provided certain certification requirements are met).
Except to the extent otherwise provided under an applicable tax treaty, a foreign holder generally will be subject to United States federal income tax in the same manner as a United States holder with respect to interest that is effectively connected with a United States trade or business conducted by the foreign holder. Effectively connected interest income received by a corporate foreign holder may also, under certain circumstances be subject to an additional branch profits tax at a 30% rate, or, if applicable, a lower treaty rate. Such effectively connected interest income will not be subject to withholding tax if the foreign holder delivers an IRS Form W-8ECI to the payor.
Repayment of Principal and Realized Gain
In general, a foreign holder of an exchange note will not be subject to United States federal withholding tax on the receipt of payments of principal on the exchange note, and a foreign holder will not be subject to United States federal income tax on any gain realized on the sale, exchange, redemption, retirement or other disposition of such exchange note, or receipt of principal, unless:
| such foreign holder is a nonresident alien individual who is present in the United States for 183 or more days in the taxable year of disposition and certain other conditions are met; |
| the foreign holder is required to pay tax pursuant to the provisions of United States tax law applicable to certain United States expatriates; or |
| the gain is effectively connected with the conduct of a United States trade or business of or, if a tax treaty applies, is attributable to a United States permanent establishment of, the foreign holder. |
Under Code Sections 871(h) and 881(c) and the underlying Treasury Regulations, in order to obtain the exemption from withholding tax described in Tax Consequences to Foreign HoldersInterest and Repayment of Principal and Realized Gain above, either (i) the holder of an exchange note must provide its name and address, and certify, under penalties of perjury, to us or the paying agent, as the case may be, that such holder is a foreign holder or (ii) the holder holds the exchange notes through certain intermediaries and such holder satisfies the certification requirements of applicable Treasury Regulations. Special certification rules apply to holders that are pass-through entities for United States federal income tax purposes. In general, a certificate described in this paragraph is effective only with respect to payments of interest made to the certifying
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foreign holder after issuance of the certificate in the calendar year of its issuance and the two immediately succeeding calendar years. Under Treasury Regulations, the foregoing certification may be provided by the holder of an exchange note on IRS Form W-8BEN, W-8IMY or W-8EXP, as applicable.
Federal withholding tax is not an additional tax. Rather, any amounts withheld from a payment to a holder are generally allowed as a credit against the affected foreign holders United States federal income tax liability.
Backup Withholding and Information Reporting
Under current United States federal income tax law, backup withholding at specified rates (currently 28%) and information reporting requirements apply to certain payments of principal and interest made to, and to the proceeds of sale before maturity by, certain holders.
In the case of a noncorporate United States holder, information reporting requirements will apply to payments of principal or interest made by us or any paying agent thereof on an exchange note. The payor will be required to withhold backup withholding tax if:
| a holder fails to furnish its Taxpayer Identification Number, or TIN (which, for an individual, is his Social Security number) to the payor in the manner required; |
| a holder furnishes an incorrect TIN and the payor is so notified by the IRS; |
| the payor is notified by the IRS that such holder has failed to properly report payments of interest or dividends; or |
| under certain circumstances, a holder fails to certify, under penalties of perjury, that it has furnished a correct TIN, is a United States person, and has not been notified by the IRS that it is subject to backup withholding for failure to report interest or dividend payments. |
Backup withholding and information reporting do not apply with respect to payments made to certain exempt recipients, including entities treated as corporations for United States federal income tax purposes. United States holders should consult their tax advisors regarding their qualification for exemption from backup withholding and information reporting, and the procedure for obtaining such an exemption if applicable.
In the case of a foreign holder, under currently applicable Treasury Regulations, backup withholding and information reporting will not apply to payments of principal or interest made by us or any paying agent thereof on an exchange note (absent actual knowledge or reason to know that the holder is actually a United States holder) if such holder has provided the required certification under penalties of perjury that it is not a United States holder or has otherwise established an exemption. If such holder provides the required certification, such holder may nevertheless be subject to withholding of United States federal income tax as described above under Tax Consequences to Foreign Holders. The rules regarding withholding, backup withholding and information reporting for foreign holders are complex, may vary depending on a foreign holders particular situation and are subject to change. In addition, special rules apply to certain types of foreign holders, including partnerships, trusts and other entities treated as pass-through entities for United States federal income tax purposes. Accordingly, foreign holders should consult their tax advisors regarding the application of information reporting and backup withholding in their particular situations, the availability of an exemption therefrom, and the procedure for obtaining such an exemption if applicable.
Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any amounts withheld from a payment to a holder under the backup withholding rules will be allowed as a credit against such holders United States federal income tax liability and may entitle such holder to a refund, provided that certain required information is furnished to the IRS.
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Each broker-dealer that receives exchange notes for its own account pursuant to the exchange offer must acknowledge that it will deliver a prospectus meeting the requirements of the Securities Act in connection with any resale of such exchange notes. This prospectus, as it may be amended or supplemented from time to time, may be used by a broker-dealer in connection with resales of exchange notes received in exchange for original notes where such original notes were acquired as a result of market-making or other trading activities. We have agreed that, for a period of up to 180 days after the date this registration statement is declared effective, we will make this prospectus available to any broker-dealer upon request for use in connection with any such resale.
We will not receive any proceeds from any sale of exchange notes by broker-dealers. Exchange notes received by broker-dealers for their own account pursuant to the exchange offer may be sold from time to time in one or more transactions in the over-the-counter market, in negotiated transactions, through the writing of options on the exchange notes or a combination of such methods of resale, at market prices prevailing at the time of resale, at prices related to such prevailing market prices or negotiated prices. Any such resale may be made directly to purchasers or to or through brokers or dealers who may receive compensation in the form of commissions or concessions from any such broker-dealer or the purchasers of any such exchange notes. Any broker-dealer that resells exchange notes that were received by it for its own account pursuant to the exchange offer and any broker or dealer that participates in a distribution of such exchange notes may be deemed to be an underwriter within the meaning of the Securities Act and any profit on any such resale of exchange notes and any commissions or concessions received by any such persons may be deemed to be underwriting compensation under the Securities Act. The letter of transmittal states that, by acknowledging that it will deliver and by delivering a prospectus, a broker-dealer will not be deemed to admit that it is an underwriter within the meaning of the Securities Act.
Until the earlier of (i) 180 days after the date this registration statement becomes effective, (ii) the date on which a broker-dealer is no longer required to deliver a prospectus in connection with market-making or other trading activities and (iii) such shorter period as will terminate when all transfer restricted securities covered by such registration statement have been sold pursuant thereto, we will promptly send additional copies of this prospectus and any amendment or supplement to this prospectus to any broker-dealer that requests such documents in the letter of transmittal. Pursuant to the registration rights agreement, we have agreed to pay all expenses incident to the exchange offer (including the expenses of one counsel for the holders of the notes) and will indemnify the holders of the notes (including any broker-dealers) against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act.
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The validity of the exchange notes and related guarantees offered hereby will be passed upon for us by McDermott Will & Emery LLP, New York, New York. In rendering its opinion, McDermott Will & Emery LLP will rely upon the opinion of Todd L. Wiseley, our General Counsel, Senior Vice President, Administration and Secretary, as to all matters governed by the laws of the State of Michigan. Mr. Wiseley beneficially owned as of May 18, 2011 approximately 64,896 shares of our common stock, which includes 52,325 shares of our common stock subject to currently exercisable options or options exercisable within 60 days.
Our consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, and the related consolidated statements of income, stockholders equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2010 and the related financial statement schedule, incorporated in this prospectus by reference from our Annual Report on Form 10-K and the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting have been audited by Deloitte & Touche LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their reports dated March 1, 2011, which are incorporated herein by reference. Such financial statements and financial statement schedule have been so incorporated in reliance upon the reports of such firm given upon their authority as experts in accounting and auditing.
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$260,000,000
VALASSIS COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
Offer To Exchange
6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021, which have been registered under the Securities Act,
for
a like principal amount of outstanding, unregistered 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021
PROSPECTUS
, 2011
PART II
INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS
Item 20. | Indemnification of Directors and Officers. |
(a) | Registrants incorporated under Delaware Law |
Valassis Communications, Inc., MailCoups, Inc., MailCoups Direct, Inc., NCH Marketing Services, Inc., NCH NuWorld Spain Inc., Perimeter Marketing Company, Promotion Watch, Inc., Valassis Coupon Clearing, Inc., Valassis Data Management, Inc., Valassis Direct Mail, Inc., Valassis Interactive, Inc., Valassis International, Inc., Valassis In-Store Solutions, Inc., Valassis Manufacturing Company, Valassis Sales & Marketing Services, Inc. and VCI Enterprises, Inc. are each corporations organized under the laws of the State of Delaware.
Section 145 of the Delaware General Corporation Law (DGCL) provides that a corporation may indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative, or investigative (other than an action by or in the right of the corporation) by reason of the fact that the person is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, against expenses (including attorneys fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by the person in connection with the action, suit or proceeding if the person acted in good faith and in a manner the person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe the persons conduct was unlawful. Section 145 further provides that a corporation similarly may indemnify the person serving in that capacity who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action or suit by or in the right of the corporation to procure a judgment in its favor, by reason of the fact that the person is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise against expenses (including attorneys fees) actually and reasonably incurred by the person in connection with the defense or settlement of such action or suit if the person acted in good faith and in a manner the person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation and except that no indemnification shall be made in respect of any claim, issue or matter as to which the person shall have been adjudged to be liable to the corporation unless and only to the extent that the Delaware Court of Chancery or the court in which the action or suit was brought shall determine upon application that, despite the adjudication of liability but in view of all the circumstances of the case, the person is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnity for the expenses which the Delaware Court of Chancery or such other court shall deem proper. The provisions regarding indemnification and advancement of expenses under Section 145 of the DGCL will not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which those seeking indemnification or advancement of expenses may be entitled under any by-law, agreement, stockholders or disinterested directors vote or otherwise.
As permitted by Section 102(b)(7) of the DGCL, Valassis restated certificate of incorporation includes a provision, in substance, eliminating the personal liability of a director of the corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director, except: (i) for any breach of the directors duty of loyalty to the Company or its stockholders; (ii) for acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law; (iii) under Section 174 of the DGCL (relating to unlawful payment of dividends and unlawful stock purchase and redemption); or (iv) for any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit.
As permitted by Section 145(e) of the DGCL, Valassis restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated by-laws provide, in substance, that Valassis shall indemnify its directors and officers, and, to the
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extent its board at any time authorizes, incorporators, employees or agents, as such, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, and that expenses reasonably incurred by any officer or director or other person entitled to indemnification in connection with a threatened or actual action or proceeding shall be advanced or promptly reimbursed by Valassis in advance of the final disposition of the action or proceeding, provided that, if required to do so under the DGCL, Valassis receive an undertaking by or on behalf of the officer or director or other person to repay the amount if and to the extent that it is ultimately determined by final judicial decision from which there is no further right of appeal that the officer or director or other person is not entitled to indemnification.
The charter documents of each of MailCoups, Inc., MailCoups Direct, Inc., NCH Marketing Services, Inc., NCH NuWorld Spain Inc., Perimeter Marketing Company, Promotion Watch, Inc., Valassis Coupon Clearing, Inc., Valassis Data Management, Inc., Valassis Direct Mail, Inc., Valassis Interactive, Inc., Valassis International, Inc., Valassis In-Store Solutions, Inc., Valassis Manufacturing Company, Valassis Sales & Marketing Services, Inc. and VCI Enterprises, Inc. (collectively, the Delaware Subsidiary Guarantor Corporations) include a provision, in substance, eliminating the personal liability of a director of the corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director, except: (i) for any breach of the directors duty of loyalty to the Company or our stockholders; (ii) for acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law; (iii) under Section 174 of the DGCL (relating to unlawful payment of dividends and unlawful stock purchase and redemption); or (iv) for any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit. In addition, the charter documents of each of MailCoups Direct, Inc., Valassis International, Inc., Valassis In-Store Solutions, Inc. and Valassis Manufacturing Company include a provision, in substance, indemnifying directors to the fullest extent permitted by Section 145 of the DGCL.
The by-laws of each of the Delaware Subsidiary Guarantor Corporations provides, in substance, that each Delaware Subsidiary Guarantor Corporation will indemnify the directors, officers, and any and all other persons whom it has the power to indemnify, from and against any and all of the expenses, liabilities or other matters referred to in the DGCL, subject to certain exceptions and approvals.
(b) | Registrant formed under the Delaware Limited Liability Company Act |
Valassis Relationship Marketing Systems, LLC is a limited liability company formed under the laws of the State of Delaware.
Section 18-108 of the Delaware Limited Liability Company Act provides that, subject to any standards and restrictions, if any, set forth in a companys limited liability company agreement, a limited liability company may indemnify and hold harmless any member or manager or other person from and against any and all claims and demands whatsoever.
The Limited Liability Company Agreement of Valassis Relationship Marketing Systems, LLC provides for the indemnification of any member, manager, or his, her or its agents and successors, to the fullest extent authorized by the Delaware Limited Liability Company Act.
(c) | Registrant formed under the Michigan Limited Liability Company Act |
VC Holdings, LLC is a limited liability company formed under the laws of the State of Michigan.
Section 450.4408 of the Michigan Limited Liability Company Act permits a limited liability company to indemnify and hold harmless a manager from and against any and all losses, expenses, claims, and demands sustained by reason of any acts or omissions or alleged acts or omissions as a manager, including judgments, settlements, penalties, fines, or expenses incurred in a proceeding to which the person is a party or threatened to be made a party because he or she is or was a manager, to the extent provided for in an operating agreement or in
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a contract with the person, or to the fullest extent permitted by agency law subject to any restriction in an operating agreement or contract, except that the company may not indemnify any person for any of the following: (a) the receipt of a financial benefit to which the manager is not entitled; (b) liability under section 450.4308; and (c) a knowing violation of law.
Section 450.4404 of the Michigan Limited Liability Company Act provides that a manager shall not be liable for an action taken as a manager or the failure to take an action if such manager performs the duties of his or her office in good faith, with the care an ordinarily prudent person in a like position would exercise under similar circumstances and in a manner he or she reasonably believes to be in the best interests of the limited liability company. Section 450.4401 of the Michigan Limited Liability Company Act provides that, if the management of the company is vested in the members, the members have, and are subject to, all duties and liabilities of managers and to all limitations on liability and indemnification rights of managers.
The Articles of Organization VC Holdings, LLC are silent as to indemnification. The operating agreement of VC Holdings, LLC provides that the monetary liability of the member for breach of any duty established under Section 450.4404 of the Michigan Limited Liability Company Act is limited to the fullest extent permitted by the Michigan Limited Liability Company Act. VC Holdings, LLC will indemnify and hold harmless the member from and against any and all losses, expenses, claims, and demands sustained by reason of any acts or omissions or alleged acts or omissions of the member, including judgments, settlements, penalties, fines, or expenses incurred in a proceeding to which the member is a party or threatened to be made a party because the person is or was a member to the fullest extent permitted by law or contract and not subject to any restriction by the operating agreement.
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Item 21. | Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules. |
(a) | The following exhibits are filed as part of this Registration Statement: |
Exhibit No. |
Description | |
2.1 | Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of July 5, 2006, by and among Valassis Communications, Inc., ADVO, Inc. and Michigan Acquisition Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Valassis 8-K (SEC File No. 001-10991) filed on July 10, 2006). | |
2.2 | Amendment No. 1, dated as of December 18, 2006, to the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of July 5, 2006, by and among Valassis Communications, Inc., Michigan Acquisition Corporation and ADVO, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Valassis 8-K (SEC File No. 001-10991) filed on December 20, 2006). | |
3.1 | Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Valassis Communications, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-1 (No. 33-45189) filed on January 21, 1992). | |
3.2 | Amended and Restated By-laws of Valassis Communications, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Valassis Form 8-K (SEC File No. 001-10991) filed on March 5, 2008). | |
3.3* | Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of MailCoups, Inc. | |
3.4 | By-laws of MailCoups, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.12 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.5 | Certificate of Incorporation of MailCoups Direct, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.13 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.6 | By-laws of MailCoups Direct, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.14 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.7 | Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of NCH Marketing Services, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.19 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.8 | By-laws of NCH Marketing Services, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.20 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.9 | Certificate of Incorporation of NCH NuWorld Spain Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.23 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.10 | Amended and Restated By-laws of NCH NuWorld Spain Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.24 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.11* | Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Perimeter Marketing Company. | |
3.12* | By-laws of Perimeter Marketing Company. | |
3.13 | Certificate of Incorporation of Promotion Watch, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.25 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.14 | By-laws of Promotion Watch, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.26 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.15 | Certificate of Incorporation of Valassis Coupon Clearing, Inc., as corrected by Certificate of Correction. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.37 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). |
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Exhibit No. |
Description | |
3.16 | By-laws of Valassis Coupon Clearing, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.38 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.17 | Certificate of Incorporation of Valassis Data Management, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.39 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.18 | By-laws of Valassis Data Management, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.40 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.19* | Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Valassis Direct Mail, Inc., as amended. | |
3.20 | Restated By-laws of Valassis Direct Mail, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.4 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.21* | Certificate of Incorporation of Valassis Interactive, Inc., as amended. | |
3.22 | By-laws of Valassis Interactive, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.34 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.23 | Certificate of Incorporation of Valassis International, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.41 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.24 | By-laws of Valassis International, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.42 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.25* | Certificate of Incorporation of Valassis In-Store Solutions, Inc. | |
3.26* | By-laws of Valassis In-Store Solutions, Inc. | |
3.27 | Certificate of Incorporation of Valassis Manufacturing Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.43 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.28 | By-laws of Valassis Manufacturing Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.44 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.29 | Certificate of Formation of Valassis Relationship Marketing Systems, LLC, as amended (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.45 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.30 | Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement of Valassis Relationship Marketing Systems, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.46 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.31 | Certificate of Incorporation of Valassis Sales & Marketing Services, Inc., as amended (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.47 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.32 | By-laws of Valassis Sales & Marketing Services, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.48 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.33* | Articles of Organization of VC Holdings, LLC. | |
3.34* | Operating Agreement of VC Holdings, LLC. | |
3.35 | Certificate of Incorporation of VCI Enterprises, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.35 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.36 | By-laws of VCI Enterprises, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.36 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). |
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Exhibit No. |
Description | |
4.1 | Certificate of Designations of Preferred Stock of Valassis Communications, Inc. filed with the Office of the Secretary of State of Delaware on September 21, 1999, Authentication No. 9983607 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit (4) to Valassis Form 8-K (SEC File No. 001-10991) filed on September 23, 1999). | |
4.2 | Indenture dated as of May 22, 2003, between Valassis Communications, Inc. and BNY Midwest Trust Company, as trustee, relating to the Senior Convertible Notes due 2033 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-3 (SEC File No. 333-107787) filed August 8, 2003). | |
4.3 | First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of March 2, 2007, between Valassis Communications, Inc. and BNY Midwest Trust Company, as trustee, to the Indenture, dated as of May 22, 2003 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4 to Valassis Form 8-K (SEC File No. 001-10991) filed on March 8, 2007). | |
4.4 | Indenture, dated as of January 28, 2011, by and among Valassis Communications, Inc., the Subsidiary Guarantors named therein and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee, relating to the 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Valassis Form 8-K (SEC File No. 001-10991) filed on February 3, 2011). | |
4.5 | Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of January 28, 2011, by an among Valassis Communications, Inc., the Subsidiary Guarantors named therein and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner and Smith Incorporated, as representative of the initial purchasers (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Valassis Form 8-K (SEC File No. 001-10991) filed on February 3, 2011). | |
5.1* | Opinion of McDermott Will & Emery LLP. | |
5.2* | Opinion of Todd L. Wiseley, General Counsel of Valassis Communications, Inc. | |
12.1* | Statement of Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges. | |
23.1* | Consent of McDermott Will & Emery LLP (included in Exhibit 5.1). | |
23.2* | Consent of Todd L. Wiseley (included in Exhibit 5.2). | |
23.3* | Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP, independent registered public accounting firm. | |
24.1* | Powers of Attorney (included in the signature pages to this Registration Statement). | |
25.1* | Statement of Eligibility of Trustee on Form T-1. | |
99.1* | Form of Letter of Transmittal. | |
99.2* | Form of Notice of Guaranteed Delivery. | |
99.3* | Form of Notice of Withdrawal. | |
99.4* | Form of Letter to Brokers, Dealers, Commercial Banks, Trust Companies and Other Nominees. | |
99.5* | Form of Letter to Clients. |
* | Filed herewith. |
Item 22. | Undertakings. |
(a) | Each of the undersigned registrants hereby undertakes: |
(1) To file, during any period in which offers or sales are being made, a post-effective amendment to this registration statement:
(i) to include any prospectus required by Section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Act;
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(ii) to reflect in the prospectus any facts or events arising after the effective date of the registration statement (or the most recent post-effective amendment thereof) which, individually or in the aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the information set forth in the registration statement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any increase or decrease in volume of securities offered (if the total dollar value of securities offered would not exceed that which was registered) and any deviation from the low or high end of the estimated maximum offering range may be reflected in the form of prospectus filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, pursuant to Rule 424(b) if, in the aggregate, the changes in volume and price represent no more than 20 percent change in the maximum aggregate offering price set forth in the Calculation of Registration Fee table in the effective registration statement; and/or
(iii) to include any material information with respect to the plan of distribution not previously disclosed in the registration statement or any material change to such information in the registration statement.
(2) That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
(3) To remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the termination of the offering.
(b) Each of the undersigned registrants hereby undertakes that, for purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act, each filing of the registrants annual report pursuant to Section 13(a) or Section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act, (and, where applicable, each filing of an employee benefit plans annual report pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act) that is incorporated by reference in the registration statement shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
(c) Each of the undersigned registrants hereby undertakes that, for purposes of determining liability under the Securities Act to any purchaser, if the registrant is subject to Rule 430C, each prospectus filed pursuant to Rule 424(b) as part of a registration statement relating to an offering, other than registration statements relying on Rule 430B or other than prospectuses filed in reliance on Rule 430A, shall be deemed to be part of and included in the registration statement as of the date it is first used after effectiveness. Provided, however, that no statement made in a registration statement or prospectus that is part of the registration statement or made in a document incorporated or deemed incorporated by reference into the registration statement or prospectus that is part of the registration statement will, as to a purchaser with a time of contract of sale prior to such first use, supersede or modify any statement that was made in the registration statement or prospectus that was part of the registration statement or made in any such document immediately prior to such date of first use.
(f) Each of the undersigned registrants hereby undertakes that in a primary offering of securities of the undersigned registrant pursuant to this registration statement, regardless of the underwriting method used to sell the securities to the purchaser, if the securities are offered or sold to such purchaser by means of any of the following communications, the undersigned registrant will be a seller to the purchaser and will be considered to offer or sell such securities to such purchaser:
(1) Any preliminary prospectus or prospectus of the undersigned registrant relating to the offering required to be filed pursuant to Rule 424;
(2) Any free writing prospectus relating to the offering prepared by or on behalf of the undersigned registrant or used or referred to by the undersigned registrant;
(3) The portion of any other free writing prospectus relating to the offering containing material information about the undersigned registrant or its securities provided by or on behalf of the undersigned registrant; and
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(4) Any other communication that is an offer in the offering made by the undersigned registrant to the purchaser.
(e) Each of the undersigned registrants hereby undertakes that insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the registrant pursuant to the provisions described in Item 20 above, or otherwise, the registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the SEC such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by a registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of such registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the registrant will, unless in the opinion of counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question of whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
(f) Each of the undersigned registrants hereby undertakes to respond to requests for information that are incorporated by reference into the prospectus pursuant to Items 4, 10(b), 11 or 13 of this Form, within one business day of the receipt of such request, and to send the incorporated documents by first-class mail or other equally prompt means. This includes information contained in documents filed subsequent to the effective date of the registration statement through the date of responding to the request.
(g) Each of the undersigned registrants hereby undertakes to supply by means of post-effective amendment all information concerning a transaction, and the company being acquired involved therein, that was not the subject of and included in the registration statement when it became effective.
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Livonia, State of Michigan, on the 23rd day of May, 2011.
VALASSIS COMMUNICATIONS, INC. | ||
By: |
/s/ Alan F. Schultz | |
Alan F. Schultz | ||
President and | ||
Chief Executive Officer |
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Alan F. Schultz, Robert L. Recchia and Todd L. Wiseley and each of them, his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this registration statement, and any registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the SEC, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact, agents, or any of them or their or his or her substitute may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
Signature |
Title |
Date | ||
/s/ Joseph B. Anderson, Jr. |
Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Joseph B. Anderson, Jr. | ||||
/s/ Patrick F. Brennan |
Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Patrick F. Brennan | ||||
/s/ Kenneth V. Darish |
Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Kenneth V. Darish | ||||
/s/ Walter H. Ku |
Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Walter H. Ku | ||||
/s/ Robert L. Recchia |
Chief Financial Officer and Director (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | May 23, 2011 | ||
Robert L. Recchia | ||||
/s/ Thomas J. Reddin |
Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Thomas J. Reddin |
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Signature |
Title |
Date | ||
/s/ Alan F. Schultz |
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director (Principal Executive Officer) | May 23, 2011 | ||
Alan F. Schultz | ||||
/s/ Wallace S. Snyder |
Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Wallace S. Snyder | ||||
/s/ Faith Whittlesey |
Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Faith Whittlesey |
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Livonia, State of Michigan, on the 23rd day of May, 2011.
MAILCOUPS, INC. | ||
By: |
/s/ Robert Mason |
Name: |
Robert Mason | |
Title: |
President |
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Todd Wiseley and Steven Mitzel and each of them, his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this registration statement, and any registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the SEC, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact, agents, or any of them or their or his or her substitute may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE | TITLE | DATED | ||
/s/ Lorne Groe |
Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Lorne Groe | ||||
/s/ Robert Mason |
President (Principal Executive Officer) | May 23, 2011 | ||
Robert Mason | ||||
/s/ Steven Mitzel |
Treasurer and Director (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | May 23, 2011 | ||
Steven Mitzel | ||||
/s/ Todd Wiseley |
Vice President and Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Todd Wiseley |
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Livonia, State of Michigan, on the 23rd day of May, 2011.
MAILCOUPS DIRECT, INC. | ||
By: |
/s/ Robert Mason |
Name: |
Robert Mason | |
Title: |
President |
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Todd Wiseley and Steven Mitzel and each of them, his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this registration statement, and any registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the SEC, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact, agents, or any of them or their or his or her substitute may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE | TITLE | DATED | ||
/s/ Robert Mason |
President and Director (Principal Executive Officer) | May 23, 2011 | ||
Robert Mason | ||||
/s/ Steven Mitzel |
Treasurer and Director (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | May 23, 2011 | ||
Steven Mitzel |
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SIGNATURES Subject to further update
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Deerfield, State of Illinois, on the 23rd day of May, 2011.
NCH MARKETING SERVICES, INC. | ||
By: | /s/ Brian J. Husselbee |
Name: | Brian J. Husselbee | |
Title: | President and Chief Executive Officer |
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Todd Wiseley and Steven Mitzel and each of them, his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this registration statement, and any registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the SEC, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact, agents, or any of them or their or his or her substitute may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE | TITLE | DATED | ||
/s/ Michelle Carey-Jones |
Vice President, General Counsel and Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Michelle Carey-Jones | ||||
/s/ Lorne Groe |
Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Lorne Groe | ||||
/s/ Brian J. Husselbee |
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director (Principal Executive Officer) | May 23, 2011 | ||
Brian J. Husselbee | ||||
/s/ Steven Mitzel |
Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Steven Mitzel | ||||
/s/ Maria Rosselli |
Vice President and Director (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | May 23, 2011 | ||
Maria Rosselli | ||||
/s/ Todd Wiseley |
Secretary and Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Todd Wiseley | ||||
/s/ Brian Yono |
Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Brian Yono |
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Deerfield, State of Illinois, on the 23rd day of May, 2011.
NCH NUWORLD SPAIN, INC. | ||
By: |
/s/ Brian J. Husselbee |
Name: |
Brian J. Husselbee | |
Title: |
President & Treasurer |
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Todd Wiseley and Lorne Groe and each of them, his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this registration statement, and any registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the SEC, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact, agents, or any of them or their or his or her substitute may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE | TITLE | DATED | ||
/s/ Brian J. Husselbee |
President, Treasurer and Director (Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) |
May 23, 2011 | ||
Brian J. Husselbee |
||||
/s/ Todd Wiseley |
Vice President, Secretary and Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Todd Wiseley |
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Livonia, State of Michigan, on the 23rd day of May, 2011.
PERIMETER MARKETING COMPANY | ||
By: | /s/ Michael Kowalczyk |
Name: | Michael Kowalczyk | |
Title: | President |
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Todd Wiseley and Lorne Groe and each of them, his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this registration statement, and any registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the SEC, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact, agents, or any of them or their or his or her substitute may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE | TITLE | DATED | ||
/s/ Lorne Groe |
Vice President and Director (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | May 23, 2011 | ||
Lorne Groe | ||||
/s/ Michael Kowalczyk |
President and Director (Chief Executive Officer) |
May 23, 2011 | ||
Michael Kowalczyk |
II-15
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Livonia, State of Michigan, on the 23rd day of May, 2011.
PROMOTION WATCH, INC. | ||
By: | /s/ Patrick McEvilly |
Name: | Patrick McEvilly | |
Title: | President, Vice President, Secretary & Treasurer |
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Todd Wiseley and Steven Mitzel and each of them, his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this registration statement, and any registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the SEC, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact, agents, or any of them or their or his or her substitute may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE | TITLE | DATED | ||
/s/ Patrick McEvilly |
President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and Director (Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | May 23, 2011 | ||
Patrick McEvilly | ||||
/s/ Steven Mitzel |
Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Steven Mitzel |
II-16
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the Town of Windsor, State of Connecticut, on the 23rd day of May, 2011.
VALASSIS COUPON CLEARING, INC. | ||
By: | /s/ Steven Mitzel |
Name: | Steven Mitzel | |
Title: | President & Treasurer |
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Todd Wiseley and Steven Mitzel and each of them, his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this registration statement, and any registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the SEC, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact, agents, or any of them or their or his or her substitute may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE | TITLE | DATED | ||
/s/ Steven Mitzel Steven Mitzel |
President, Treasurer and Director (Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) |
May 23, 2011 | ||
/s/ Todd Wiseley |
Vice President, Secretary and Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Todd Wiseley |
II-17
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the Town of Windsor, State of Connecticut, on the 23rd day of May, 2011.
VALASSIS DATA MANAGEMENT, INC. | ||
By: | /s/ Steven Mitzel |
Name: | Steven Mitzel | |
Title: | President & Treasurer |
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Todd Wiseley and Steven Mitzel and each of them, his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this registration statement, and any registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the SEC, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact, agents, or any of them or their or his or her substitute may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE | TITLE | DATED | ||
/s/ Steven Mitzel |
President, Treasurer and Director (Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | May 23, 2011 | ||
Steven Mitzel | ||||
/s/ Todd Wiseley |
Vice President, Secretary and Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Todd Wiseley |
II-18
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Livonia, State of Michigan, on the 23rd day of May, 2011.
VALASSIS DIRECT MAIL, INC. | ||
By: |
/s/ Robert Mason |
Name: |
Robert Mason | |
Title: |
President |
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Todd Wiseley and Steven Mitzel and each of them, his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this registration statement, and any registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the SEC, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact, agents, or any of them or their or his or her substitute may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE | TITLE | DATED | ||
/s/ Robert Mason |
President and Director (Principal Executive Officer) | May 23, 2011 | ||
Robert Mason | ||||
/s/ Steven Mitzel |
Treasurer and Director (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | May 23, 2011 | ||
Steven Mitzel | ||||
/s/ Todd Wiseley |
Vice President and Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Todd Wiseley |
II-19
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Livonia, State of Michigan, on the 23rd day of May, 2011.
VALASSIS IN-STORE SOLUTIONS, INC. | ||
By: |
/s/ Michael Kowalczyk |
Name: |
Michael Kowalczyk | |
Title: |
President |
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Todd Wiseley and Lorne Groe and each of them, his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this registration statement, and any registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the SEC, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact, agents, or any of them or their or his or her substitute may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE | TITLE | DATED | ||
/s/ Lorne Groe |
Vice President, Treasurer and Director (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | May 23, 2011 | ||
Lorne Groe | ||||
/s/ Michael Kowalczyk |
President (Principal Executive Officer) | May 23, 2011 | ||
Michael Kowalczyk | ||||
/s/ Todd Wiseley |
Secretary and Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Todd Wiseley |
II-20
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the Town of Windsor, State of Connecticut, on the 23rd day of May, 2011.
VALASSIS INTERACTIVE, INC. | ||
By: |
/s/ Steven Mitzel |
Name: |
Steven Mitzel | |
Title: |
President & Treasurer |
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Todd Wiseley and Steven Mitzel and each of them, his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this registration statement, and any registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the SEC, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact, agents, or any of them or their or his or her substitute may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE | TITLE | DATED | ||
/s/ Steven Mitzel Steven Mitzel |
President, Treasurer and Director (Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) |
May 23, 2011 | ||
/s/ Todd Wiseley |
Vice President, Secretary and Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Todd Wiseley |
II-21
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the Town of Windsor, State of Connecticut, on the 23rd day of May, 2011.
VALASSIS INTERNATIONAL, INC. | ||
By: | /s/ Steven Mitzel |
Name: | Steven Mitzel | |
Title: | President & Treasurer |
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Todd Wiseley and Steven Mitzel and each of them, his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this registration statement, and any registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the SEC, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact, agents, or any of them or their or his or her substitute may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE | TITLE | DATED | ||
/s/ Steven Mitzel Steven Mitzel |
President, Treasurer and Director (Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) |
May 23, 2011 | ||
/s/ Todd Wiseley |
Vice President, Secretary and Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Todd Wiseley |
II-22
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Livonia, State of Michigan, on the 23rd day of May, 2011.
VALASSIS MANUFACTURING COMPANY | ||
By: | /s/ Ronald Goolsby |
Name: | Ronald Goolsby | |
Title: | President & Treasurer |
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Todd Wiseley and Steven Mitzel and each of them, his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this registration statement, and any registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the SEC, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact, agents, or any of them or their or his or her substitute may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE | TITLE | DATED | ||
/s/ Ronald Goolsby Ronald Goolsby |
President, Treasurer and Director (Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) |
May 23, 2011 | ||
/s/ Steven Mitzel |
Vice President, Secretary and Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Steven Mitzel |
II-23
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Livonia, State of Michigan, on the 23rd day of May, 2011.
VALASSIS RELATIONSHIP MARKETING SYSTEMS, LLC | ||
By: |
/s/ Todd Wiseley |
Name: |
Todd Wiseley | |
Title: |
General Manager |
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Todd Wiseley and Lorne Groe and each of them, his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this registration statement, and any registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the SEC, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact, agents, or any of them or their or his or her substitute may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE | TITLE | DATED | ||
/s/ Todd Wiseley Todd Wiseley |
General Manager (Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) |
May 23, 2011 | ||
/s/ Lorne Groe |
Manager and Secretary | May 23, 2011 | ||
Lorne Groe |
II-24
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Livonia, State of Michigan, on the 23rd day of May, 2011.
VALASSIS SALES & MARKETING SERVICES, INC. | ||
By: | /s/ Richard Herpich |
Name: | Richard Herpich | |
Title: | President |
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Todd Wiseley and Steven Mitzel and each of them, his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this registration statement, and any registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the SEC, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact, agents, or any of them or their or his or her substitute may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE | TITLE | DATED | ||
/s/ Susan Griffin |
Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Susan Griffin | ||||
/s/ Richard Herpich |
President and Director (Principal Executive Officer) |
May 23, 2011 | ||
Richard Herpich | ||||
/s/ Steven Mitzel |
Secretary and Director (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) |
May 23, 2011 | ||
Steven Mitzel |
II-25
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Livonia, State of Michigan, on the 23rd day of May, 2011.
VC HOLDINGS, LLC | ||
By: | /s/ Lorne Groe |
Name: | Lorne Groe | |
Title: | President |
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Todd Wiseley and Lorne Groe and each of them, his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this registration statement, and any registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the SEC, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact, agents, or any of them or their or his or her substitute may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE | TITLE | DATED | ||
/s/ Lorne Groe |
President (Principal Executive | May 23, 2011 | ||
Lorne Groe |
Officer and Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | |||
Valassis Communications, Inc., as sole member of VC Holdings, LLC |
||||
By: /s/ Todd Wiseley |
Sole Member | May 23, 2011 | ||
General Counsel, Senior Vice President, Administration and Secretary |
II-26
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the Town of Windsor, State of Connecticut, on the 23rd day of May, 2011.
VCI ENTERPRISES, INC. | ||
By: | /s/ Steven Mitzel |
Name: | Steven Mitzel | |
Title: | President & Treasurer |
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Todd Wiseley and Steven Mitzel and each of them, his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this registration statement, and any registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the SEC, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact, agents, or any of them or their or his or her substitute may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE | TITLE | DATED | ||
/s/ Steven Mitzel |
President, Treasurer and Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
Steven Mitzel | (Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | |||
/s/ Todd Wiseley Todd Wiseley |
Vice President, Secretary and Director | May 23, 2011 | ||
II-27
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit No. |
Description | |
2.1 | Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of July 5, 2006, by and among Valassis Communications, Inc., ADVO, Inc. and Michigan Acquisition Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Valassis 8-K (SEC File No. 001-10991) filed on July 10, 2006). | |
2.2 | Amendment No. 1, dated as of December 18, 2006, to the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of July 5, 2006, by and among Valassis Communications, Inc., Michigan Acquisition Corporation and ADVO, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Valassis 8-K (SEC File No. 001-10991) filed on December 20, 2006). | |
3.1 | Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Valassis Communications, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-1 (No. 33-45189) filed on January 21, 1992). | |
3.2 | Amended and Restated By-laws of Valassis Communications, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Valassis Form 8-K (SEC File No. 001-10991) filed on March 5, 2008). | |
3.3* | Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of MailCoups, Inc. | |
3.4 | By-laws of MailCoups, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.12 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.5 | Certificate of Incorporation of MailCoups Direct, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.13 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.6 | By-laws of MailCoups Direct, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.14 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.7 | Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of NCH Marketing Services, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.19 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.8 | By-laws of NCH Marketing Services, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.20 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.9 | Certificate of Incorporation of NCH NuWorld Spain Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.23 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.10 | Amended and Restated By-laws of NCH NuWorld Spain Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.24 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.11* | Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Perimeter Marketing Company. | |
3.12* | By-laws of Perimeter Marketing Company. | |
3.13 | Certificate of Incorporation of Promotion Watch, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.25 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.14 | By-laws of Promotion Watch, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.26 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.15 | Certificate of Incorporation of Valassis Coupon Clearing, Inc., as corrected by Certificate of Correction. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.37 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.16 | By-laws of Valassis Coupon Clearing, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.38 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). |
II-28
Exhibit No. |
Description | |
3.17 | Certificate of Incorporation of Valassis Data Management, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.39 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.18 | By-laws of Valassis Data Management, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.40 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.19* | Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Valassis Direct Mail, Inc., as amended. | |
3.20 | Restated By-laws of Valassis Direct Mail, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.4 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.21* | Certificate of Incorporation of Valassis Interactive, Inc., as amended. | |
3.22 | By-laws of Valassis Interactive, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.34 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.23 | Certificate of Incorporation of Valassis International, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.41 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.24 | By-laws of Valassis International, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.42 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.25* | Certificate of Incorporation of Valassis In-Store Solutions, Inc. | |
3.26* | By-laws of Valassis In-Store Solutions, Inc. | |
3.27 | Certificate of Incorporation of Valassis Manufacturing Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.43 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.28 | By-laws of Valassis Manufacturing Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.44 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.29 | Certificate of Formation of Valassis Relationship Marketing Systems, LLC, as amended (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.45 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.30 | Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement of Valassis Relationship Marketing Systems, LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.46 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.31 | Certificate of Incorporation of Valassis Sales & Marketing Services, Inc., as amended (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.47 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.32 | By-laws of Valassis Sales & Marketing Services, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.48 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.33* | Articles of Organization of VC Holdings, LLC. | |
3.34* | Operating Agreement of VC Holdings, LLC. | |
3.35 | Certificate of Incorporation of VCI Enterprises, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.35 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). | |
3.36 | By-laws of VCI Enterprises, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.36 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-4 (No. 333-144136) filed on June 28, 2007). |
II-29
Exhibit No. |
Description | |
4.1 | Certificate of Designations of Preferred Stock of Valassis Communications, Inc. filed with the Office of the Secretary of State of Delaware on September 21, 1999, Authentication No. 9983607 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit (4) to Valassis Form 8-K (SEC File No. 001-10991) filed on September 23, 1999). | |
4.2 | Indenture dated as of May 22, 2003, between Valassis Communications, Inc. and BNY Midwest Trust Company, as trustee, relating to the Senior Convertible Notes due 2033 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Valassis Registration Statement on Form S-3 (SEC File No. 333-107787) filed August 8, 2003). | |
4.3 | First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of March 2, 2007, between Valassis Communications, Inc. and BNY Midwest Trust Company, as trustee, to the Indenture, dated as of May 22, 2003 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4 to Valassis Form 8-K (SEC File No. 001-10991) filed on March 8, 2007). | |
4.4 | Indenture, dated as of January 28, 2011, by and among Valassis Communications, Inc., the Subsidiary Guarantors named therein and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee, relating to the 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Valassis Form 8-K (SEC File No. 001-10991) filed on February 3, 2011). | |
4.5 | Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of January 28, 2011, by an among Valassis Communications, Inc., the Subsidiary Guarantors named therein and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner and Smith Incorporated, as representative of the initial purchasers (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Valassis Form 8-K (SEC File No. 001-10991) filed on February 3, 2011). | |
5.1* | Opinion of McDermott Will & Emery LLP. | |
5.2* | Opinion of Todd L. Wiseley, General Counsel of Valassis Communications, Inc. | |
12.1* | Statement of Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges. | |
23.1* | Consent of McDermott Will & Emery LLP (included in Exhibit 5.1). | |
23.2* | Consent of Todd L. Wiseley (included in Exhibit 5.2). | |
23.3* | Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP, independent registered public accounting firm. | |
24.1* | Powers of Attorney (included in the signature pages to this Registration Statement). | |
25.1* | Statement of Eligibility of Trustee on Form T-1. | |
99.1* | Form of Letter of Transmittal. | |
99.2* | Form of Notice of Guaranteed Delivery. | |
99.3* | Form of Notice of Withdrawal. | |
99.4* | Form of Letter to Brokers, Dealers, Commercial Banks, Trust Companies and Other Nominees. | |
99.5* | Form of Letter to Clients. |
* | Filed herewith. |
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Exhibit 3.3
AMENDED AND RESTATED
CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
OF
MAILCOUPS, INC.
A Delaware Corporation
(Pursuant to Sections 242 and 245 of the General Corporation Law of the State of
Delaware)
MailCoups, Inc., a corporation organized and existing under and by virtue of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the DGCL),
DOES HEREBY CERTIFY:
1. That the name of this corporation is MailCoups, Inc. (the Corporation), and the Corporation was originally incorporated pursuant to the DGCL on February 11, 1998 under the name SuperCoups, Inc., and an amendment to the original Certificate of Incorporation was filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on February 25, 1998 to change the name of the Corporation to MailCoups, Inc.
2. That the Board of Directors of the Corporation duly adopted resolutions proposing to amend and restate the Corporations Certificate of Incorporation, declaring said amendment and restatement to be advisable and in the best interests of the Corporation and its stockholders, and authorizing the appropriate officers of the Corporation to solicit the consent of the stockholders therefore, which resolution setting forth the proposed amendment and restatement is as follows:
RESOLVED, that the Certificate of Incorporation of the Corporation be amended and restated in its entirety to read as follows:
FIRST: The name of this corporation is MailCoups, Inc. (the Corporation).
SECOND: The address of the Corporations registered office in the State of Delaware is located at 1209 Orange Street, Wilmington, New Castle County, Delaware 19801. The registered agent of the Corporation at that address is The Corporation Trust Company.
THIRD: The purpose of the Corporation is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which corporations may be organized under the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the DGCL).
FOURTH: The total number of shares of stock which the Corporation shall have authority to issue is Five Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty Two (5,882), divided into two classes as follows: Three Thousand (3,000) of which shall be common stock, with a par value of one cent ($.01) per share (the Common Stock), and Two Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty Two
(2,882) of which shall be preferred stock, with a par value of one cent ($.01) per share (the Preferred Stock).
The following is a statement of the designations and the powers, privileges and rights, and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof in respect of each class of capital stock of the Corporation.
A. Common Stock.
1. General. The voting, dividend and liquidation rights of the holders of the Common Stock are subject to and qualified by the rights, powers and preferences of the holders of the Preferred Stock set forth herein, as applicable.
2. Voting. The holders of the Common Stock are entitled to one vote for each share of Common Stock held at all meetings of stockholders (and written actions in lieu of meetings).
3. Dividends. Subject to applicable law, the holders of Common Stock shall be entitled to receive dividends out of funds legally available therefore at such times and in such amounts as the board of directors of the Corporation may determine in its sole discretion. No rights or interest shall accrue to the holders of the Common Stock by reason of the fact that the Corporation shall fail to declare or pay dividends on the Common Stock in any calendar year or fiscal year of the Corporation, whether or not the earnings of the Corporation in any calendar year or fiscal year were sufficient to pay such dividends in whole or in part.
4. Liquidation, Dissolution or Winding Up. Upon any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, either voluntary or involuntary (a Liquidation Event), after the payment or provision for payment of all debts and liabilities of the Corporation and all preferential amounts to which the holders of Preferred Stock are entitled with respect to the distribution of assets in liquidation, the holders of Common Stock shall be entitled to share ratably in the remaining assets of the Corporation available for distribution.
5. Reacquired Shares. Any shares of Common Stock purchased or otherwise acquired by the Corporation in any manner whatsoever shall be retired and cancelled promptly after the acquisition thereof. All shares shall upon their cancellation become authorized but unissued shares of Common Stock.
B. Preferred Stock.
Two Thousand Eight Hundred Eighty Two (2,882) shares of the authorized and unissued Preferred Stock of the Corporation are hereby designated Series A Preferred Stock with the following rights, preferences, powers, privileges and restrictions, qualifications and limitations. Unless otherwise indicated, references to Sections or Subsections in this Part B of this Article Fourth refer to sections and subsections, respectively, of this Part B of this Article Fourth.
1. Dividends. Subject to applicable law, the holder(s) of Series A Preferred Stock shall be entitled to receive dividends out of funds legally available therefore at such times and in
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such amounts as the board of directors of the Corporation may determine in its sole discretion. No rights or interest shall accrue to the holder(s) of the Series A Preferred Stock by reason of the fact that the Corporation shall fail to declare or pay dividends on the Series A Preferred Stock in any calendar year or fiscal year of the Corporation, whether or not the earnings of the Corporation in any calendar year or fiscal year were sufficient to pay such dividends in whole or in part.
2. Voting. Except as required by law, the holder(s) of shares of Series A Preferred Stock shall have no voting rights and their consent shall not be required for taking any corporate action.
3. Conversion. The holder(s) of Series A Preferred Stock shall have no right to exchange or convert such shares into other securities.
4. Reacquired Shares. Any shares of Series A Preferred Stock purchased or otherwise acquired by the Corporation in any manner whatsoever shall be retired and cancelled promptly after the acquisition thereof. All shares shall upon their cancellation become authorized but unissued shares of Preferred Stock.
5. Liquidation, Dissolution or Winding Up.
(a) In the event of any Liquidation Event, the holder(s) of vested shares of Series A Preferred Stock shall be entitled to receive for each vested share of Series A Preferred Stock, out of the assets of the Corporation or proceeds thereof (whether capital or surplus) available for distribution to stockholders of the Corporation, subject to the rights of any creditors of the Corporation, before any distribution of such assets or proceeds is made to or set aside for the holders of Common Stock and any other stock of the Corporation ranking junior to the Series A Preferred Stock as to such distribution, an amount per share equal to the Series A Liquidation Preference (as defined below) for each vested outstanding share of Series A Preferred Stock held by such holder.
(b) If in any distribution described in Subsection (a) above the assets of the Corporation or proceeds thereof are not sufficient to pay in full the amounts payable with respect to all vested outstanding shares of Series A Preferred Stock, the holder(s) of vested shares of Series A Preferred Stock shall share ratably in any such distribution in proportion to the full respective distributions to which they are entitled.
(c) Upon completion of the payment or distribution required by Subsection (a) above, the holders of the other stock of the Corporation shall be entitled to receive all remaining assets of the Corporation (or proceeds thereof) according to their respective rights and preferences.
(d) For purposes of this Section, (i) Series A Liquidation Preference shall mean a price per vested share of Series A Preferred Stock equal to the greater of (x) $34.698126 plus the amount of any dividends declared but unpaid to the date of payment, or (y) the amount to be distributed per share of Common Stock, if any, and (ii) vested as used herein with respect to any share of Series A Preferred Stock shall mean the lapse of all transfer and forfeiture restrictions relating to such share set forth in that certain Restricted Stock Agreement, dated as of
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the date of the original issuance of the shares of Series A Preferred Stock, between the Corporation and Mikes Marketshare Coupons, Inc., as the same may be amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time.
(e) For purposes of this Section, the merger or consolidation of the Corporation with any other corporation or other entity, including a merger or consolidation in which the holder(s) of Series A Preferred Stock receive cash, securities or other property for their shares, or the sale, lease or exchange (for cash, securities or other property) of all or substantially all of the assets of the Corporation, shall not constitute a Liquidation Event.
6. Additional Series. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Article Fourth to the contrary, the Corporation may, without obtaining the consent of holder(s) of the Series A Preferred Stock, issue one or more additional series of the Corporations preferred stock having rights, designations, powers, and preferences equal or superior to the Series A Preferred Stock and having such other designations, rights, preferences, terms and conditions as stated or expressed herein.
7. Other Rights. The shares of Series A Preferred Stock shall not have any rights, preferences, privileges or voting powers or relative, participating, optional or other special rights, or qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof, other than as set forth herein or in this Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation or as provided by applicable law.
8. Amendment. No amendment, modification or waiver to any provision of this Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation in a manner that adversely affects the powers, preferences or right of the Series A Preferred Stock shall be binding or effective without the prior written consent of the holder(s) of a majority of the Series A Preferred Stock outstanding as of the time such action is taken. No other course of dealing between the Corporation and the holder of any Series A Preferred Stock or any delay in exercising any rights hereunder shall operate as a waiver of any rights of any such holder(s).
FIFTH: The board of directors of the Corporation shall have the power without the assent or vote of the stockholders to adopt, amend, alter or repeal the by-laws of the Corporation, except to the extent that the by-laws or this Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation otherwise provide.
SIXTH: The number of directors of the Corporation shall be fixed from time to time by the By-Laws of the Corporation. Election of directors need not be by written ballot unless the By-Laws shall so provide.
SEVENTH: No person who is or was a director of the Corporation shall be personally liable to the Corporation for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director unless, and only to the extent that, such director is liable (i) for any breach of the directors duty of loyalty to the Corporation or its stockholders, (ii) for acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (iii) under Section 174 of the DGCL or any amendment thereto or successor provision thereto, or (iv) for any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit. No amendment to, repeal or adoption of any provision of the certificate of incorporation inconsistent with this
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Article shall apply to or have any effect on the liability of any director of the Corporation for or with respect to any acts or omissions of such director occurring prior to such amendment, repeal, or adoption of an inconsistent provision. If the DGCL hereafter is amended to authorize the further elimination or limitation of the liability of directors, then the liability of a director of the corporation, in addition to the limitation on personal liability provided herein, shall be limited to the fullest extent permitted by the amended DGCL.
EIGHTH: Each person who at any time is or was an officer or director of the Corporation, and is or was threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, by reason of the fact that he is or was an officer or director of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, shall be indemnified against expenses (including attorneys fees), reasonably incurred by him in connection with any such action, suit or proceeding to the full extent permitted by the General Corporation Law including Section 145 of the DGCL, as the same may be amended and supplemented from time to time. The foregoing right of indemnification shall in no way be deemed exclusive of any other rights of indemnification to which such officer or director may be entitled under any By-Law, agreement, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise.
NINTH: Whenever a compromise or arrangement is proposed between this Corporation and its creditors or any class of them and/or between this Corporation and its stockholders or any class of them, any court of equitable jurisdiction within the State of Delaware may, on the application in a summary way of this Corporation or any creditor or stockholder thereof, or on the application of any receiver or receivers appointed for this Corporation under Section 291 of Title 8 of the Delaware Code or on the application of trustees in dissolution or of any receiver or receivers appointed for this Corporation under Section 279 of Title 8 of the Delaware Code, order a meeting of the creditors or class of creditors, and/or of the stockholders or class of stockholders of this Corporation, as the case may be, to be summoned in such manner as the said court directs. If a majority in number representing three-fourths in value of the creditors or class of creditors, and/or of the stockholders or class of stockholders of this Corporation, as the case may be, agree to any compromise or arrangement and to any reorganization of this Corporation as a consequence of such compromise or arrangement, the said compromise or arrangement and the said reorganization shall, if sanctioned by the court to which the said application has been made, be binding on all the creditors or class of creditors, and/or on all the stockholders or class of stockholders, of this Corporation, as the case may be, and also on this Corporation.
3. That the foregoing amendment and restatement was approved by the holders of the requisite number of shares of this Corporation in accordance with Section 228 of the DGCL.
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4. That this Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, which restates and integrates and further amends the provisions of this Corporations Certificate of Incorporation, has been duly adopted in accordance with Sections 242 and 245 of the DGCL.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation has been executed by a duly authorized officer of this Corporation on the 3 day of December, 2009.
By: | /s/ Todd L. Wiseley | |||
Name: | Todd Wiseley | |||
Title: | Vice President |
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Exhibit 3.11
SECOND AMENDED AND RESTATED
CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION OF PERIMETER MARKETING COMPANY
A Delaware Corporation
(Pursuant to Sections 228, 242 and 245 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware)
Perimeter Marketing Company, a corporation organized and existing under the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, does hereby certify as follows:
FIRST: The original Certificate of Incorporation of the Corporation was filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on January 17, 2006 under the name LBL Acquisition, Inc. and an amendment to the original Certificate of Incorporation was filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on March. 24, 2006 to change the name of the Corporation to Label$Dollars, Corp. The Certificate of Incorporation was further amended and restated on March 8, 2007 and an amendment to the Certificate of Incorporation was filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on October 15, 2007 to change the name of the Corporation to Perimeter Marketing Company.
SECOND: The Amended and Restated. Certificate of Incorporation of Perimeter Marketing Company, in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A has been duly adopted in accordance with the provisions of Sections 228, 242 and 245 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware by the directors and stockholders of the Corporation.
THIRD: The Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation so adopted reads in full as set forth in Exhibit A attached hereto and is hereby incorporated herein by this reference.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Corporation has caused this Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation to be signed this 20th day of March, 2009.
By: | /s/ Todd L. Wiseley | |
Name: | Todd Wiseley | |
Title: | Secretary |
EXHIBIT A
AMENDED AND RESTATED
CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
OF
PERIMETER MARKETING COMPANY,
a Delaware Corporation
ARTICLE I
The name of this corporation (the Corporation) is Perimeter Marketing Company.
ARTICLE II
The address of the registered office of the Corporation in the State of Delaware is 2711 Centerville Road: Suite 400, City of Wilmington, County of New Castle 19808. The name of the registered agent at that address is The Corporation Service Company.
ARTICLE
The nature of the business or purposes to be conducted or promoted by the Corporation is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which corporations may be organized under the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the DGCL).
ARTICLE IV
The total number of shares of stock which the Corporation shall have the authority to issue is 1,000 shares of common stock, par value $.001 per share.
ARTICLE V
A director of the Corporation shall, to the fullest extent permitted by the DGCL as it now exists or as it may hereafter be amended, not be personally liable to the Corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director, except for liability (a) for any breach of the directors duty of loyalty to the Corporation or its stockholders, (b) for acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (c) under Section 174 of the DGCL or (d) for any -transaction from which the director derived any improper personal benefit. If the DGCL is amended, after approval by the stockholders of this Article V, to authorize corporate action further eliminating or limiting the personal liability of directors, then the liability of a director of the Corporation shall be eliminated or limited to the fullest extent permitted by the DGCL as so amended.
Any amendment, repeal or modification of this Article V, or the adoption of any provision of this Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation inconsistent with this Article V by the stockholders of the Corporation shall not apply to or adversely affect any right or protection of a director of the Corporation occurring prior to the time of such amendment, repeal, modification or adoption.
ARTICLE VI
The Corporation shall indemnify its directors, and shall provide for advancement of the expenses of such persons, to the fullest extent provided by Section 145 of the DGCL. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, the Corporation is authorized to provide indemnification of (and advancement of expenses to) agents of the Corporation (and any other persons to which State law permits the Corporation to provide indemnification) through Bylaw provisions, agreements with such agents or other persons, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise, in excess of the indemnification and advancement otherwise permitted by Section 145 of the DGCL, subject only to limits created by applicable law (statutory or non-statutory), with respect to actions for breach of duty to the Corporation, its stockholders and others.
Any amendment, repeal or modification of the foregoing provision of this Article VI shall not adversely affect any right or protection of a director, officer, agent, or other person existing at the time of, or increase the liability of any director of the Corporation with respect to any acts or omissions of such director, officer or agent occurring prior to, such amendment, repeal, modification or adoption.
ARTICLE VII
The Board of Directors of the Corporation (the Board) may from time to time adopt, amend, alter, supplement, rescind or repeal any or all of the Bylaws of the Corporation without any action on the part of the stockholders; provided, however, that the stockholders may adopt, amend or repeal any Bylaw adopted by the Board, and no amendment or supplement to the Bylaws adopted by the Board shall vary or conflict with any amendment or supplement adopted by the stockholders.
ARTICLE VIII
The number of directors of the Corporation shall be set from time to time by resolution of the Board.
ARTICLE IX
Elections of directors need not be by written ballot unless the Bylaws of the Corporation shall so provide.
ARTICLE X
Meetings of stockholders may be held within or without the State of Delaware, as the Bylaws may provide. The books of the Corporation may be kept (subject to any statutory requirements) outside the State of Delaware at such place or places as may be designated from time to time by the Board or in the Bylaws of the Corporation.
ARTICLE XI
The Corporation expressly elects not to be governed by Section 203 of the DGCL.
ARTICLE XII
The property and assets of the stockholders of the Corporation shall not, to any extent whatsoever, be subject to the payment of the debts of the Corporation.
Exhibit 3.12
BYLAWS OF
LBL ACQUISITION, INC.
a Delaware corporation
ARTICLE I
OFFICES
Section 1. Registered Office. The registered office shall be at the office of Corporation Service Company, 2711 Centerville Road, Suite 400, Wilmington, Delaware 19808.
Section 2. Other Offices. The corporation may also have offices at such other places both within and without the State of Delaware as the Board of Directors may from time to time determine or the business of the corporation may require.
ARTICLE II
MEETINGS OF STOCKHOLDERS
Section 1. Annual Meeting. An annual meeting of the stockholders for the election of directors shall be held at such place either within or without the State of Delaware as shall be designated on an annual basis by the Board of Directors and stated in the notice of the meeting. Meetings of stockholders for any other purpose may be held at such time and place, within or without the State of Delaware, as shall be stated in the notice of the meeting or in a duly executed waiver of notice thereof. Any other proper business may be transacted at the annual meeting.
Section 2. Notice of Annual Meeting. Written notice of the annual meeting stating the place, date and hour of the meeting shall be given to each stockholder entitled to vote at such meeting not less than ten nor more than sixty days before the date of the meeting.
Section 3. Voting List. The officer who has charge of the stock ledger of the corporation shall prepare and make, or cause a third party to prepare and make, at least ten days before every meeting of stockholders, a complete list of the stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting, arranged in alphabetical order, and showing the address of each stockholder and the number of shares registered in the name of each stockholder. Such list shall be open to the examination of any stockholder, for any purpose germane to the meeting, during ordinary business hours, for a period of at least ten days prior to the meeting, either at a place within the city where the meeting is to be held, which place shall be specified in the notice of the meeting, or, if not so specified, at the place where the meeting is to be held. The list shall also be produced and kept at the time and place of the meeting during the whole time thereof, and may be inspected by any stockholder who is present.
Section 4. Special Meetings. Special meetings of the stockholders of this corporation, for any purpose or purposes, unless otherwise prescribed by statute or by the Certificate of Incorporation, shall be called by the President or Secretary at the request, in writing, of a majority of the members of the Board of Directors or the holder(s) of at least 25% of the total voting power of all outstanding shares of stock of this corporation then entitled to vote, and may not be called absent such a request. Such request shall state the purpose or purposes of the proposed meeting.
Section 5. Notice of Special Meetings. As soon as reasonably practicable after receipt of a request as provided in Section 4 of this Article II, written notice of a special meeting, stating the place, date (which shall be not less than ten nor more than sixty days from the date of the notices) and hour of the special meeting and the purpose or purposes for which the special meeting is called, shall be given to each stockholder entitled to vote at such special meeting.
Section 6. Scope of Business at Special Meeting. Business transacted at any special meeting of stockholders shall be limited to the purposes stated in the notice.
Section 7. Quorum. The holders of a majority of the stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote thereat, present in person or represented by proxy, shall constitute a quorum at all meetings of the stockholders for the transaction of business, except as otherwise provided by statute or by the Certificate of Incorporation. If, however, such quorum shall not be present or represented at any meeting of the stockholders, the chairman of the meeting or the stockholders entitled to vote thereat, present in person or represented by proxy, shall have power to adjourn the meeting from time to time, without notice other than announcement at the meeting, until a quorum shall be present or represented. At such adjourned meeting at which a quorum shall he present or represented, any business may be transacted which might have been transacted at the meeting as originally notified. If the adjournment is for more than thirty days, or if after the adjournment a new record date is fixed for the adjourned meeting, a notice of the adjourned meeting shall be given to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at the meeting as provided in Section 5 of this Article II.
Section 8. Qualifications to Vote. The stockholders of record on the books of the corporation at the close of business on the record date as determined by the Board of Directors and only such stockholders shall be entitled to vote at any meeting of stockholders or any adjournment thereof.
Section 9. Record Date. The Board of Directors may fix a record date for the determination of the stockholders entitled to notice of or to vote at any stockholders meeting and at any adjournment thereof, or to express consent to corporate action in writing without a meeting, or to receive payment of any dividend or other distribution or allotment of any rights, or entitled to exercise any rights in respect of any change, conversion or exchange of stock or for the purpose of any other lawful action. The record date shall not be more than sixty nor less than ten days before the date of such meeting, and not more than sixty days prior to any other action. If no record date is fixed by the Board of Directors, the record date for determining stockholders entitled to notice of or to vote at a meeting of stockholders shall be at the close of business on the day next preceding the day on which notice is given, or if notice is waived at the close of business on the day next preceding the day on which the meeting is held. A determination of stockholders of record entitled to notice of or to vote at a meeting of stockholders shall apply to any adjournment of the meeting; provided, however, that the Board of Directors may fix a new, record date for the adjourned meeting.
Section 10. Action at Meetings. When a quorum is present at any meeting, the vote of the holders of a majority of the shares of stock having voting power present in person or represented by proxy shall decide any question brought before such meeting, unless the question is one upon which by express provision of applicable law or of the Certificate of Incorporation, a different vote is required, in which case such express provision shall govern and control the decision of such question.
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Section 11. Voting and Proxies. Unless otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation, each stockholder shall at every meeting of the stockholders be entitled to one vote in person or by proxy for each share of the capital stock having voting power held by such stockholder, but no proxy shall be voted on after three years from its date, unless the proxy provides for a longer period. Each proxy shall be revocable unless expressly provided therein to be irrevocable and unless it is coupled with an interest sufficient in law to support an irrevocable power.
Section 12. Action by Stockholders Without a Meeting. Unless otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation, any action required to be taken at any annual or special meeting of stockholders of the corporation, or any action which may be taken at any annual or special meeting of such stockholders, may be taken without a meeting, without prior notice and without a vote, if a consent or consents in writing, setting forth the action so taken, shall be signed by the holders of outstanding stock having not less than the minimum number of votes that would be necessary to authorize or take such action at a meeting at which all shares entitled to vote thereon were present and voted and shall be delivered to the corporation by delivery to its principal place of business, or to an officer or agent of the corporation having custody of the book in which proceedings of meetings of stockholders are recorded. Prompt notice of the taking of corporate action without a meeting by less than unanimous written consent shall be given to those stockholders who have not consented in writing and who, if the action had been taken at a meeting, would have been entitled to notice of the meeting if the record date for such meeting had been the date that written consents signed by a sufficient number of stockholders to take the action were delivered to the corporation by delivery to its principal place of business, or to an officer or agent of the corporation having custody of the book in which proceedings or meetings of stockholders are recorded.
ARTICLE III
DIRECTORS
Section 1. Powers. The business of the corporation shall be managed by or under the direction of its Board of Directors, which may exercise all such powers of the corporation and do all such lawful acts and things as are not by applicable law or by the Certificate of Incorporation or by these Bylaws directed or required to be exercised or done by the stockholders.
Section 2. Number., Election; Tenure and Qualification. The number of directors which shall constitute the whole board shall be fixed from time to time by resolution of the Board of Directors or by the stockholders at an annual meeting of the stockholders (unless the directors are elected by written consent in lieu of an annual meeting as provided in Article II, Section 12). Except as provided in the corporations Certificate of Incorporation or in Section 3 of this Article III, the directors shall be elected by a plurality vote of the shares represented in person or by proxy and each director elected shall hold office until his successor is elected and qualified unless he shall resign, become disqualified, disabled, or otherwise removed. Directors need not be stockholders.
Section 3. Vacancies and Newly Created Directorships. Unless otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation, vacancies and newly-created directorships resulting from any increase in the authorized number of directors may be filled by a majority of the directors then in office, though less than a quorum, or by a sole remaining director. The directors so chosen shall serve until the next annual election and until their successors are duly elected and shall qualify,
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unless sooner displaced. If there are no directors in office, then an election of directors may be held in the manner provided by applicable law. If, at the time of filling any vacancy or any newly created directorship, the directors then in office shall constitute less than a majority of the whole board (as constituted immediately prior to any such increase), the Court of Chancery may, upon application of any stockholder or stockholders holding at least ten percent of the total number of shares at the time outstanding having the right to vote for such directors, summarily order an election to be held to fill any such vacancies or newly created directorships, or to replace the directors chosen by the directors then in office.
Section 4. Location of Meetings. The Board of Directors of the corporation may hold meetings, both regular and special, either within or without the State of Delaware.
Section 5. Meeting of Newly Elected Board of Directors. The first meeting of each newly elected Board of Directors shall be held immediately following the annual meeting of stockholders and no notice of such meeting shall be necessary to the newly elected directors in order legally to constitute the meeting, provided a quorum shall be present. In the event such meeting is not held at such time, the meeting may be held at such time and place as shall be specified in a notice given as hereinafter provided for special meetings of the Board of Directors, or as shall be specified in a written waiver signed by all of the directors.
Section 6. Regular Meetings. Regular meetings of the Board of Directors may be held without notice at such time and at such place as shall from time to time be determined by the Board of Directors.
Section 7. Special Meetings. Special meetings of the Board of Directors may be called by the President on two days notice to each director either personally or by mail, telephone, overnight courier service, facsimile, electronic mail or other form of recorded communication; special meetings shall be called by the President or Secretary in a like manner and on like notice on the written request of at least two directors unless the Board of Directors consists of only one director, in which case special meetings shall be called by the President or Secretary in a like manner and on like notice on the written request of the sole director. Notice may be waived in accordance with Section 229 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware.
Section 8. Quorum and Action at Meetings. At all meetings of the Board of Directors, a majority of the directors then in office shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, and the act of a majority of the directors present at any meeting at which there is a quorum shall be the act of the Board of Directors, except as may be otherwise specifically provided by statute or by the Certificate of Incorporation. If a quorum shall not be present at any meeting of the Board of Directors, the directors present thereat may adjourn the meeting from time to time, without notice other than announcement at the meeting, until a quorum shall be present.
Section 9. Action Without a Meeting. Unless otherwise restricted by the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws, any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of the Board of Directors or of any committee thereof may be taken without a meeting, if all members of the Board of Directors or committee, as the case may be, consent thereto in writing, and the writing or writings are filed with the minutes of proceedings of the Board of Directors or committee.
Section 10. Telephonic Meeting. Unless otherwise restricted by the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws, members of the Board of Directors, or any committee designated by the Board of Directors, may participate in a meeting of the Board of Directors, or any committee, by means of conference telephone or similar communications equipment by means of which all persons
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participating in the meeting can hear each other, and such participation in a meeting shall constitute presence in person at the meeting.
Section 11. Committees. The Board of Directors may, by resolution passed by a majority of the whole board, designate one or more committees, each committee to consist of one or more of the directors of the corporation. The Board of Directors may designate one or more directors as alternate members of any committee, who may replace any absent or disqualified member at any meeting of the committee. In the absence or disqualification of a member of a committee, the member or members thereof present at any meeting and not disqualified from voting, whether or not such member or members constitute a quorum, may unanimously appoint another member of the Board of Directors to act at the meeting in the place of any such absent or disqualified member.
Section 12. Committee Authority. Any such committee, to the extent provided in the resolution of the Board of Directors, shall have and may exercise all the powers and authority of the Board of Directors in the management of the business and affairs of the corporation, and may authorize the seal of the corporation to be affixed to all papers which may require it; but no such committee shall have the power or authority in reference to (a) approving, adopting or recommending to the stockholders, any action or matter expressly required by the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware to be submitted to stockholders for approval, or (b) adopting, amending or repealing any Bylaw of the corporation. Such committee or committees shall have such name or names as may be determined from time to time by resolution adopted by the Board of Directors.
Section 13. Committee Minutes. Each committee shall keep regular minutes of its meetings and report the same to the Board of Directors when required to do so by the Board of Directors.
Section 14. Directors Compensation. Unless otherwise restricted by the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws, the Board of Directors shall have the authority to fix the compensation of directors. The directors may be paid their expenses, if any, of attendance at each meeting of the Board of Directors and may be paid a fixed sum for attendance at each meeting of the Board of Directors or a stated salary as director. No such payment shall preclude any director from serving the corporation in any other capacity and receiving compensation therefor. Members of special or standing committees may be allowed like compensation for attending committee meetings.
Section 15. Resignation. Any director or officer of the corporation may resign at any time. Each such resignation shall be made in writing and shall take effect at the time specified therein, or, if no time is specified, at the time of its receipt by either the Board of Directors, the President or the Secretary. The acceptance of a resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective unless expressly so provided in the resignation.
Section 16. Removal. Unless otherwise restricted by the Certificate of incorporation, these Bylaws or applicable law, any director or the entire Board of Directors may be removed; with or without cause, by the holders of a majority of shares entitled to vote at an election of directors.
ARTICLE IV
NOTICES
Section 1. Notice to Directors and Stockholders. Whenever, under the provisions of the
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statutes or of the Certificate of Incorporation or of these Bylaws, notice is required to be given to any director or stockholder, it shall not be construed to mean personal notice, but such notice may be given in writing, by mail, addressed to such director or stockholder, at his address as it appears on the records of the corporation, with postage thereon prepaid, and such notice shall be deemed to be given two days after the same shall be deposited in the United States mail. An affidavit of the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary or of the transfer agent of the corporation that the notice has been given shall in the absence of fraud, be prima facie evidence of the facts stated therein. Notice to directors may also be given by telephone, facsimile or telegram (with confirmation of receipt).
Section 2. Waiver. Whenever any notice is required to be given under the provisions of the statutes or of the Certificate of incorporation or of these Bylaws, a waiver thereof in writing. signed by the person or persons entitled to said notice, whether before or after the time stated therein, shall be deemed equivalent thereto. The written waiver need not specify the business to be transacted at, nor the purpose of, any regular or special meeting of the stockholders, directors, or members of a committee of directors. Attendance of a person at a meeting shall constitute a waiver of notice of such meeting, except when the person attends a meeting for the express purpose of objecting at the beginning of the meeting, to the transaction of any business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened. Attendance at the meeting is not a waiver of any right to object to the consideration of matters required by the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware to be included in the notice of the meeting but not so included, if such objection is expressly made at the meeting.
ARTICLE V
OFFICERS
Section 1. Enumeration. The officers of the corporation shall be chosen by the Board co Directors and shall include a President, a Secretary, a Treasurer or Chief Financial Officer such other officers with such other titles as the Board of Directors shall determine. The Beard of Directors may elect from among its members a Chairman or Chairmen of the Board and a Vice Chairman of the Board. The Board of Directors may also choose one or more Vice-Presidents. Assistant Secretaries and Assistant Treasurers. Any number of offices may be held by the same person, unless the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws otherwise provide.
Section 2. Election. The Board of Directors at its first meeting after each annual meeting of stockholders shall elect a President, a Secretary, a Treasurer and such other officers with such other titles as the Board of Directors shall determine.
Section 3. Appointment of Other Agents. The Board of Directors may appoint such other officers and agents as it shall deem necessary, who shall hold their offices for such terms and shall exercise such powers and perform such duties as shall be determined from time to time by the Board of Directors.
Section 4. Compensation. The salaries of all officers of the corporation shall be fixed by the Board of Directors or a committee thereof. The salaries of agents of the corporation shall be fixed by the Board of Directors.
Section 5. Tenure. The officers of the corporation shall hold office until their successors are chosen and qualify. Any officer elected or appointed by the Board of Directors may be removed at any time by the affirmative vote of a majority of the directors of the Board of Directors. Any
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vacancy occurring in any office of the corporation shall be filled by the Board of Directors.
Section 6. Chairman of the Board and Vice-Chairman of the Board. The Chairman of the Board, if any, shall preside at all meetings of the Board of Directors and of the stockholders at which the Chairman shall be present. The Chairman shall have and may exercise such powers as are, from time to time, assigned to the Chairman by the Board of Directors and as may be provided by law. In the absence of the Chairman of the Board, the Vice Chairman of the Board, if any, shall preside at all meetings of the Board of Directors and of the stockholders at which the Vice Chairman shall be present. The Vice Chairman shall have and may exercise such powers as are, from time to time, assigned to such person by the Board of Directors and as may be provided by law.
Section 7. President. The President shall be the Chief Executive Officer of the corporation unless such title is assigned to another officer of the corporation; in the absence of a Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Board, the President shall preside as the chairman of meetings of the stockholders and the Board of Directors; and the President shall have general and active management of the business of the corporation and shall see that all orders and resolutions of the Board of Directors are carried into effect. The President shall execute bonds, mortgages and other contracts requiring a seal, under the seal of the corporation, except where required or permitted by law to be otherwise signed and executed and except where the signing and execution thereof shall be expressly delegated by the Board of Directors to some other officer or agent of the corporation.
Section 8. Vice-President. In the absence of the President or in the event of the Presidents inability or refusal to act, the Vice-President, if any (or in the event there be more than one Vice-President, the Vice-Presidents in the order designated by the Board of Directors, or in the absence of any designation, then in the order of their election) shall perform the duties of the President, and when so acting shall have all the powers of and be subject to all the restrictions upon the President. The Vice-President shall perform such other duties and have such other powers as the Board of Directors may from time to time prescribe.
Section 9. Secretary. The Secretary shall attend all meetings of the Board of Directors and all meetings of the stockholders and record all the proceedings of the meetings of the corporation and of the Board of Directors in a book to be kept for that purpose and shall perform like duties for the standing committees when required. The Secretary shall give, or cause to be given, notice of all meetings of the stockholders and special meetings of the Board of Directors, and shall perform such other duties as may be prescribed by the Board of Directors or President, under whose supervision the Secretary shall be subject. The Secretary shall have custody of the corporate seal of the corporation and the Secretary, or an Assistant Secretary, shall have authority to affix the same to any instrument requiring it and when so affixed, it may be attested by the Secretarys signature or by the signature of such Assistant Secretary. The Board of Directors may give general authority to any other officer to affix the seal of the corporation and to attest the affixing by such officers signature.
Section 10. Assistant Secretary. The Assistant Secretary, or if there be more than one, the Assistant Secretaries in the order determined by the Board of Directors (or if there be no such determination, then in the order of their election) shall, in the absence of the Secretary or in the event of the Secretarys inability or refusal to act, perform the duties and exercise the powers of the Secretary and shall perform such other duties and have such other powers as the Board of Directors may from time to time prescribe.
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Section 11. Treasurer. The Treasurer shall have the custody of the corporate funds and securities and shall keep full and accurate accounts of receipts and disbursements in books belonging to the corporation and shall deposit all moneys and other valuable effects in the name and to the credit of the corporation in such depositories as may be designated by the Board of Directors. The Treasurer shall disburse the funds of the corporation as may be ordered by the Board of Directors, President or Chief Executive Officer, taking proper vouchers for such disbursements, and shall render to the President, Chief Executive Officer and the Board of Directors, at its regular meetings, or when the Board of Directors so requires, an account of all such transactions as Treasurer and of the financial condition of the corporation. If required by the Board of Directors, the Treasurer shall give the corporation a bond (which shall be renewed every six years) in such sum and with such surety or sureties as shall be satisfactory to the Board of Directors for the faithful performance of the duties of the Treasurers office and for the restoration to the corporation, in case of the Treasurers death, resignation, retirement or removal from office, of all books, papers, vouchers, money and other property of whatever kind in the possession or under the control of the Treasurer that belongs to the corporation.
Section 12. Assistant Treasurer. The Assistant Treasurer, or if there be more than one, the Assistant Treasurers in the order determined by the Board of Directors (or if there be no such determination, then in the order of their election) shall, in the absence of the Treasurer or in the event of the Treasurers inability or refusal to act, perform the duties and exercise the powers of the Treasurer and shall perform such other duties and have such other powers as the Board of Directors may from time to time prescribe.
ARTICLE VI
CAPITAL STOCK
Section 1. Certificates. The shares of the corporation shall be represented by a certificate, unless and until the Board of Directors adopts a resolution permitting shares to be uncertificated. Certificates shall be signed by, or in the name of the corporation by, (a) the Chairman of the Board, the Vice-Chairman of the Board, the President or a Vice-President, and (b) the Treasurer or an Assistant Treasurer, or the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary, certifying the number of shares owned by such stockholder in the corporation. Certificates may be issued for partly paid shares and in such case upon the face or back of the certificates issued to represent any such partly paid shares, the total amount of the consideration to be paid therefor and the amount paid thereon shall be specified.
Section 2. Class or Series. If the corporation shall be authorized to issue more than one class of stock or more than one series of any class, the powers, designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional or other special rights of each class of stock or series thereof and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions of such preferences and/or rights shall be set forth in full or summarized on the face or back of the certificate which the corporation shall issue to represent such class or series of stock, provided that, except as otherwise provided in Section 202 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, in lieu of the foregoing requirements, there may be set forth on the face or back of the certificate which the corporation shall issue to represent such class or series of stock, a statement that the corporation will furnish without charge to each stockholder who so requests the powers, designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional or other special rights of each class of stock or series thereof and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions of such preferences and/or rights. Within a reasonable time after the issuance or transfer of uncertificated stock, the corporation shall send to the registered owner thereof a written notice containing the information required to be set forth or stated on certificates pursuant to Sections 151, 156, 202(a) or 218(a) of the Delaware Corporation Law or a statement that
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the corporation will furnish without charge, to each stockholder who so requests, the powers, designations, preferences and relative participating, optional or other special rights of each class of stock or series thereof and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions of such preferences and/or rights.
Section 3. Signature. Any of or all of the signatures on a certificate may be facsimile. In case any officer, transfer agent or registrar who has signed or whose facsimile signature has been placed upon a certificate shall have ceased to be such officer, transfer agent or registrar before such certificate is issued, it may be issued by the corporation with the same effect as if such person were such officer, transfer agent or registrar at the date of issue.
Section 4. Lost Certificates. The Board of Directors may direct a new certificate or certificates to be issued in place of any certificate or certificates theretofore issued by the corporation alleged to have been lost, stolen or destroyed, upon the making of an affidavit of that fact by the person claiming the certificate of stock to be lost, stolen or destroyed. When authorizing such issue of a new certificate or certificates, the Board of Directors may, in its discretion and as a condition precedent to the issuance thereof, require the owner of such lost, stolen or destroyed certificate or certificates, or such owners legal representative, to advertise the same in such manner as it shall require and/or to give the corporation a bond in such sum as it may direct as indemnity against any claim that may be made against the corporation with respect to the certificate alleged to have been lost, stolen or destroyed.
Section 5. Transfer of Stock. Upon surrender to the corporation or the transfer agent of the corporation of a certificate for shares duly endorsed or accompanied by proper evidence of succession, assignation or authority to transfer, it shall be the duty of the corporation to issue a new certificate to the person entitled thereto, cancel the old certificate and record the transaction upon its books. Upon receipt of proper transfer instructions from the registered owner of uncertificated shares such uncertificated shares shall be canceled and issuance of new equivalent uncertificated shares or certificated shares shall be made to the person entitled thereto and the transaction shall be recorded upon the books of the corporation.
Section 6. Record Date. In order that the corporation may determine the stockholders entitled to notice of or to vote at any meeting of stockholder or any adjournment thereof, or to express consent to corporate action in writing without a meeting, or entitled to receive payment of any dividend or other distribution or allotment of any rights, or entitled to exercise any rights in respect of any change, conversion or exchange of stock or for the purpose of any other lawful action, the Board of Directors may fix, in advance, a record date, which shall not be more than sixty nor less than ten days before the date of such meeting, nor more than sixty days prior to any other action. A determination of stockholders of record entitled to notice of or to vote at a meeting of stockholders shall apply to any adjournment of the meeting; provided, however, that the Board of Directors may fix a new record date for the adjourned meeting.
Section 7. Registered Stockholders. The corporation shall be entitled to recognize the exclusive right of a person registered on its books as the owner of shares to receive dividends, and to vote as such owner, and to hold liable for calls and assessments a person registered on its books as the owner of shares, and shall not be bound to recognize any equitable or other claim to or interest in such share or shares on the part of any other person, whether or not it shall have express or other notice thereof, except as otherwise provided by the laws of Delaware.
ARTICLE VII
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GENERAL PROVISIONS
Section 1. Dividends. Dividends upon the capital stock of the corporation, subject to the applicable provisions, if any, of the Certificate of Incorporation, may be declared by the Board of Directors at any regular or special meeting, pursuant to law. Dividends may be paid in cash, in property or in shares of capital stock, subject to the provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation. Before payment of any dividend, there may be set aside out of any funds of the corporation available for dividends such sum or sums as the Board of Directors from time to time, in their absolute discretion, think proper as a reserve or reserves to meet contingencies, or for equalizing dividends, or for repairing or maintaining any property. of the corporation, or for such other purposes as the Board of Directors shall think conducive to the interest of the corporation, and the Board of Directors may modify or abolish any such reserve in the manner in which it was created.
Section 2. Checks. All checks or demands for money and notes of the corporation shall be signed by such officer or officers or such other person or persons as the Board of Directors may from time to time designate.
Section 3. Fiscal Year. The fiscal year of the corporation shall be fixed by resolution of the Board of Directors.
Section 4. Seal. The Board of Directors may adopt a corporate seal having inscribed thereon the name of the corporation; the year of its organization and the words Corporate Seal, Delaware. The seal may be used by causing it or a facsimile thereof to be impressed or affixed or reproduced or otherwise.
Section 5. Loans. The Board-of Directors of this corporation may, without stockholder approval, authorize loans to, or guaranty obligations of, or otherwise assist, including, without limitation, the adoption of employee benefit plans under which loans and guarantees may be made, any officer or other employee of the corporation or of its subsidiary, including any officer or employee who is a director of the corporation or its subsidiary, whenever, in the judgment of the Board of Directors, such loan, guaranty or assistance may reasonably be expected to benefit the corporation. The loan, guaranty or other assistance may be with or without interest, and may be unsecured, or secured in such manner as the Board of Directors shall approve, including, without limitation, a pledge of shares of stock of the corporation.
ARTICLE VIII
INDEMNIFICATION
Section 1. Scope. The corporation shall, to the fullest extent permitted by Section 145 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, as that Section may be amended and supplemented from time to time, indemnify any director of the corporation, against expenses (including attorneys fees), judgments, fines, amounts paid in settlement and/or other matters referred to in or covered by that Section, by reason of the fact that such person is or was a director of the corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the corporation as a director of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise.
Section 2. Advancing Expenses. Expenses (including attorneys fees) incurred by a present or former director of the corporation in defending a civil, criminal, administrative or investigative action, suit or proceeding by reason of the fact that such person is or was a director of the corporation (or is or was serving at the request of the corporation as a director of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise) shall be paid by the corporation
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in advance of the final disposition of such action, suit or proceeding upon receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of such director to repay such amount if it shall ultimately be determined that such person is not entitled to be indemnified by the corporation as authorized by relevant provisions of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware; provided, however, the corporation shall not be required to advance such expenses to a director (i) who commences any action, suit or proceeding as a plaintiff unless such advance is specifically approved by a majority of the Board of Directors, or (ii) who is a party to an action, suit or proceeding brought by the corporation and approved by a majority of the Board of Directors which alleges willful misappropriation of corporate assets by such director, disclosure of confidential information in violation of such directors fiduciary or contractual obligations to the corporation, or any other willful and deliberate breach in bad faith of such directors duty to the corporation or its stockholders.
Section 3. Continuing Obligation. The provisions of this Article VIII shall be deemed to be a contract between the corporation and each director of the corporation who serves in such capacity at any time while this bylaw is in effect, and any repeal or modification thereof shall not affect any rights or obligations then existing with respect to any state of facts then or theretofore existing or any action, suit or proceeding theretofore or thereafter brought based in whole or in part upon any such state of facts.
Section 4. Nonexclusive. The indemnification and advancement of expenses provided for in this Article VIII shall (i) not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which those indemnified may be entitled under any bylaw, agreement or vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise, both as to action in their official capacities and as to action in another capacity while holding such office, (ii) continue as to a person who has ceased to be a director and (iii) inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors and administrators of such a person.
Section 5. Other Persons. In addition to the indemnification rights of directors of the corporation, the Board of Directors in its discretion shall have the power on behalf of the corporation to indemnify any other person made a party to any action, suit or proceeding who the corporation may indemnify under Section 145 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware.
Section 6. Definitions. The phrases and terms set forth in this Article VIII shall be given the same meaning as the identical terms and phrases are given in Section 145 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, as that Section may be amended and supplemented from time to time.
ARTICLE IX
AMENDMENTS
Except as otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation, these Bylaws may be altered, amended or repealed, or new Bylaws may be adopted, by the holders of a majority of the outstanding voting shares or by the Board of Directors, when such power is conferred upon the Board of Directors by the Certificate of Incorporation, at any regular meeting of the stockholders or of the Board of Directors or at any special meeting of the stockholders or of the Board of Directors if notice of such alteration, amendment, repeal or adoption of new Bylaws be contained in the notice of such special meeting. If the power to adopt, amend or repeal Bylaws is conferred upon the Board of Directors by the Certificate of Incorporation, it shall not divest or limit the power of the stockholders to adopt, amend or repeal Bylaws.
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Exhibit 3.19
RESTATED CERTIFICATE. OF INCORPORATION
OF
ADVO, INC.
ADVO, Inc., a corporation organized and existing under the laws of the State of Delaware, hereby certifies as follows:
I. The name of the corporation is ADVO, Inc. (the Corporation). The name under which the Corporation was originally incorporated was TAC Industries, Inc. and the date of filing of its original Certificate of Incorporation with the Secretary of State was April 29, 1971.
2. This Restated Certificate of Incorporation only restates and integrates and does not further amend the provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation of as heretofore amended or supplemented and there is no discrepancy between those provisions and the provisions of this Restated Certificate of Incorporation.
3. The text of the Certificate of Incorporation as amended or supplemented heretofore is hereby restated without further amendments or changes to read as herein set forth in full:
ARTICLE I. Name. The name of the corporation is ADVO, Inc.
ARTICLE II. Registered Office and Registered Agent. The address of the registered office of the Corporation in the State of Delaware is 1209 Orange Street, in the City of Wilmington, County of New Castle, Delaware 19801. The name of its registered agent at that address is The Corporation Trust Company.
ARTICLE III. Business or Purposes To Be Conducted or Promoted. The purpose of the Corporation is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which corporations may be organized under the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware.
ARTICLE IV. Capital Stock. The total number of shares of stock which the Corporation is authorized to issue is 85,000,000 shares, of which 80,000,000 shares shall be designated Common Stock, $.01 par value per share, and 5,000,000 shares shall be designated Preferred. Stock, par value $.01 per share.
(A) The Board of Directors of the Corporation is hereby expressly vested with the authority by resolution or resolutions to issue one or more classes or series of Preferred Stock with such voting powers, full or limited, or no voting powers, and such designations, preferences and relative, participating, optional or other special rights, and qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof, as shall be stated and expressed in such resolution or resolutions.
(B) Except as otherwise provided by statute or any resolution adopted by the Board of Directors pursuant to Article IV(A) of this Certificate of Incorporation, each holder of Common Stock shall be entitled to vote and shall have one vote for each share thereof held.
ARTICLE V. Business and Affairs of the Corporation. Elections of directors need not be by written ballot unless and except to the extent the by-laws of the Corporation shall so provide.
The Board of Directors shall have the power from time to time to adopt, amend or repeal the by-laws of the Corporation.
ARTICLE VI. Compromises and Arrangements. Whenever a compromise or arrangement is proposed between this Corporation and its creditors or any class of them and/or between this Corporation and its stockholders or any class of them, any court of equitable jurisdiction within the State of Delaware may, on the application in a summary way of this Corporation or of any creditor or stockholder thereof or on the application of any receiver or receivers appointed for this Corporation under the provisions of Section 291 of Title 8 of the Delaware Code or on the application of trustees in dissolution or of any receiver or receivers appointed for this Corporation under the provisions of Section 279 of Title 8 of the Delaware Code, order a meeting of the creditors or class of creditors, and/or of the stockholders or class of stockholders of this Corporation, as the case may be, to be summoned in such manner as the said court directs. If a majority in number representing three-fourths in value of the creditors or class of creditors, and/or of the stockholders or class of stockholders of this Corporation, as the case may be, agree to any compromise or arrangement and to any reorganization of this Corporation as a consequence of such compromise or arrangement, the said compromise or arrangement and the said reorganization shall, if sanctioned by the court to which the said application has been made, be binding on all the creditors or class of creditors, and/or on all the stockholders or class of stockholders, of this Corporation, as the case may be, and also on this Corporation.
ARTICLE VII. Indemnification. The Corporation shall, to the fullest extent permitted by Section 145 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, as the same may be amended and supplemented, or by any successor thereto, indemnify any and all persons whom it shall have power to indemnify under said section from and against any and all of the expenses, liabilities or other matters referred to in or covered by said Section. Such right to indemnification shall continue as to a person who has ceased to be a director, officer, employee or agent and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors and administrators of such a person. The indemnification provided for herein shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which those seeking indemnification may be entitled under any By-law, agreement, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise.
ARTICLE VIII. Liability of Directors to the Corporation or Stockholders. To the fullest extent permitted by the Delaware General Corporation Law as the same exists or
2
may hereafter be amended, a director of the Corporation shall not be liable to the Corporation or to its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director.
4. This Restated Certificate of Incorporation was duly adopted by the Board of Directors in accordance with Section 245 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware.
5. This Restated Certificate of Incorporation shall be effective as of the date of its filing with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, said ADVO, Inc. has caused this certificate to be signed by S. Scott Harding, its Chief Executive Officer, this 20th day of January, 2005.
ADVO, Inc. | ||
By: | /s/ S. Scott Harding | |
S. Scott Harding | ||
Chief Executive Officer |
3
CERTIFICATE OF AMENDMENT
TO THE
CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
OF
ADVO, INC.
ADVO, Inc. (the Corporation), a corporation organized and existing under and by virtue of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the DGCL), does hereby certify as follows:
FIRST: The name of the Corporation is ADVO, Inc.
SECOND: The Board of Directors of the Corporation duly adopted resolutions setting forth the proposed amendment of the Certificate of Incorporation of the Corporation by written consent in lieu of a special meeting, declaring such amendment to be advisable and directing that such amendment be submitted to the sole stockholder of the Corporation for approval.
THIRD: Thereafter, pursuant to the resolutions of the Board of Directors, the sole stockholder of the Corporation duly adopted the proposed amendment by written consent in lieu of a special meeting in accordance with Section 242 of the DGCL.
FOURTH: The Certificate of Incorporation is hereby amended as follows:
1. Article FIRST of the Certificate of Incorporation is hereby amended to read as follows:
The name of this Corporation is Valassis Direct Mail, Inc.
FIFTH: This Certificate of Amendment shall become effective as of 12:00 a.m. on January 1, 2008.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Corporation has caused this Certificate of Amendment to be signed this 19th day of December, 2007.
ADVO, Inc. | ||
By: | /s/ David J. Hennessey | |
Name: | David J. Hennessey | |
Title: | Secretary |
Exhibit 3.21
CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
OF
VCI ELECTRONIC COUPONS, INC.
The undersigned, a natural person, for the purpose of organizing a corporation under the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, hereby certifies that:
FIRST: The name of the corporation (hereinafter called the Corporation) is VCI Electronic Coupons, Inc.
SECOND: The address of the registered office of the Corporation in the State of Delaware is 1209 Orange Street, City of Wilmington, County of New Castle. The name of the registered agent of the Corporation at such address is The Corporation Trust Company.
THIRD: The purpose of the Corporation is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which corporations may be organized under the General. Corporation Law of the State of Delaware.
FOURTH: The total number of shares of stock which the Corporation shall have authority to issue is one thousand (1,000) shares, all of which shall be designated Common Stock, of par value ($.01) per share.
FIFTH: The name and the mailing address of the incorporator are as follows:
NAME | MAILING ADDRESS | |
Corrinne Binstein |
c/o McDermott, Will & Emery 50 Rockefeller Plaza New York, NY 10020 |
SIXTH: The Board of Directors is expressly authorized to adopt, amend or repeal By-Laws, subject to the reserved power of the stockholders to amend and repeal any By-Laws adopted by the Board of Directors.
SEVENTH: Unless and except to the extent that the By-Laws shall so require, the election of directors of the Corporation need not be by written ballot.
EIGHTH: Whenever a compromise or arrangement is proposed between this corporation and its creditors or any class of them and/or between this corporation and its stockholders or any class of them, any court of equitable jurisdiction within the State of Delaware may, on the application in a summary way of this corporation or of any creditor or stockholder thereof or on the application of any receiver or receivers appointed
for this corporation under § 291 of Title 8 of the Delaware Code or on the application of trustees in dissolution or of any receiver or receivers appointed for this corporation under § 279 of Title 8 of the Delaware Code order a meeting of the creditors or class of creditors, and/or of the stockholders or class of stockholders of this corporation, as the case may be, to be summoned in such manner as the said court directs. If a majority in number representing three fourths in value of the creditors or class of creditors, and/or of the stockholders or class of stockholders of this corporation, as the case may be, agree to any compromise or arrangement and to any reorganization of this corporation as a consequence of such compromise or arrangement, the said compromise or arrangement and the said reorganization shall, if sanctioned by the court to which the said application has been made, be binding on all the creditors or class of creditors, and/or on all the stockholders or class of stockholders, of this corporation, as the case may be, and also on this corporation.
NINTH: No person who is or was a director of the Corporation shall be personally liable to the Corporation for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director unless, and only to the extent that, such director is liable (i) for any breach of the directors duty of loyalty to the Corporation or its stockholders, (ii) for acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (iii) under Section 174 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware or any amendment thereto or successor provision thereto, or (iv) for any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit. No amendment to, repeal or adoption of any provision of the certificate of incorporation inconsistent with this article shall apply to or have any effect on the liability of any director of the Corporation for or with respect to any acts or omissions of such director occurring prior to such amendment, repeal, or adoption of an inconsistent provision.
TENTH: Any and all right, title, interest and claim in or to any dividends declared by the Corporation, whether in cash, stock or otherwise, which are unclaimed by the stockholder entitled thereto for a period of six (6) years after the close of business on the payment date, shall be and be deemed to be extinguished and abandoned, and such unclaimed dividends in the possession of the, Corporation, its transfer agents or other agents or depositaries, shall at such time become the absolute property of the Corporation, free and clear of any and all claims of any persons whatsoever.
THE UNDERSIGNED, for the purpose of forming a corporation under the laws of the State of Delaware, does hereby make, file and record this Certificate, and certifies that the facts herein stated are true, and has accordingly set his hand hereto this 18th day of April, 2000.
By: | /s/ Corrinne Binstein | |
Corrinne Binstein Incorporator |
CERTIFICATE OF AMENDMENT
TO THE
CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
OF
VCI ELECTRONIC COUPONS, INC.
VCI Electronic Coupons, Inc. (the Corporation), a corporation organized and existing under and by virtue of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the DGCL), does hereby certify as follows:
FIRST: The name of the Corporation is VCI Electronic Coupons, Inc.
SECOND: The Board of Directors of the Corporation duly adopted resolutions setting forth the proposed amendment of the Certificate of Incorporation of the Corporation by written consent in lieu of a special meeting, declaring such amendment to be advisable and directing that such amendment be submitted to the sole stockholder of the Corporation for approval.
THIRD: Thereafter, pursuant to the resolutions of the Board of Directors, the sole stockholder of the Corporation duly adopted the proposed amendment by written consent in lieu of a special meeting in accordance with Section 242 of the DGCL.
FOURTH: The Certificate of Incorporation is hereby amended as follows:
1. Article FIRST of the Certificate of Incorporation is hereby amended to read as follows:
The name of this Corporation is Valassis Interactive, Inc.
FIFTH: This Certificate of Amendment shall become effective on December 31, 2009 at 9:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Corporation has caused this Certificate of Amendment to be signed this 29th day of December, 2009.
VCI Electronic Coupons, Inc. | ||
By: | /s/ Steven Mitzel | |
Name: | Steven Mitzel | |
Title: | President |
Exhibit 3.25
CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION
OF
VALASSIS IN-STORE SOLUTIONS, INC.
FIRST: The name of this Corporation is: Valassis In-Store Solutions, Inc.
SECOND: The address of the corporations registered office in the State of Delaware is 1209 Orange Street, in the City of Wilmington, County of New Castle. The name of its registered agent at such address is: The Corporation Trust Company.
THIRD: The purpose of this corporation is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which corporations may be organized under the General Corporation Law of Delaware.
FOURTH: The total number of shares of capital stock which the corporation shall have authority to issue is 100 shares of Common Stock, 0.01 par value per share (Common Stock).
FIFTH: The name and mailing address of the incorporator is:
Kelli Porterfield
c/o McDermott, Will & Emery LLP
340 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10173
SIXTH: The Board of Directors is expressly authorized to adopt, amend or repeal By-Laws, subject to the reserved power of the stockholders to amend and repeal any By-Laws adopted by the Board of Directors.
SEVENTH: No person who is or was a director of the Corporation shall be personally liable to the Corporation for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director unless, and only to the extent that, such director is liable (i) for any breach of the directors duty of loyalty to the Corporation or its stockholders, (ii) for acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (iii) under Section 174 of the General Corporation Law or any amendment thereto or successor provision thereto, or (iv) for any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit. No amendment to, repeal or adoption of any provision of the certificate of incorporation inconsistent with this article shall apply to or have any effect on the liability of any director of the Corporation for or with respect to any acts or omissions of such director occurring prior to such amendment, repeal, or adoption of an inconsistent provision. If the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware hereafter is amended to authorize the further elimination or limitation of the liability of directors, then the liability of a director of the corporation, in addition to the limitation on personal liability provided herein, shall be limited to the fullest extent permitted by the amended General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware.
EIGHTH: Each person who at any time is or was an officer or director of the Corporation, and is or was threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, by reason of the fact that he is or was an officer or director of another
corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, shall be indemnified against expenses (including attorneys fees), reasonably incurred by him in connection with any such action, suit or proceeding to the full extent permitted by the General Corporation Law including Section 145 of the General Corporation Law, as the same may be amended and supplemented from time to time. The foregoing right of indemnification shall in no way be deemed exclusive of any other rights of indemnification to which such officer or director may be entitled under any By-Law, agreement, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise.
NINTH: Whenever a compromise or arrangement is proposed between this Corporation and its creditors or any class of them and/or between this Corporation and its stockholders or any class of them, any court of equitable jurisdiction within the State of Delaware may, on the application in a summary way of this Corporation or any creditor or stockholder thereof, or on the application of any receiver or receivers appointed for this Corporation under Section 291 of Title 8 of the Delaware Code or on the application of trustees in dissolution or of any receiver or receivers appointed for this Corporation under Section 279 of Title 8 of the Delaware Code, order a meeting of the creditors or class of creditors, and/or of the stockholders or class of stockholders of this Corporation, as the case may be, to be summoned in such manner as the said court directs. If a majority in number representing three-fourths in value of the creditors or class of creditors, and/or of the stockholders or class of stockholders of this Corporation, as the case may be, agree to any compromise or arrangement and to any reorganization of this Corporation as a consequence of such compromise or arrangement, the said compromise or arrangement and the said reorganization shall, if sanctioned by the court to which the said application has been made, be binding on all the stockholders or class of stockholders, of this Corporation, as the case may be, and also on this Corporation.
TENTH: Unless and except to the extent that the By-Laws shall so require, the election of directors of the Corporation need not be by written ballot.
I, the undersigned, for the purpose of forming a corporation pursuant to the General Corporation Law of Delaware, do make, file and record this certificate, and do certify that the facts herein stated are true, and I have accordingly hereunto set my hand.
Dated: July 22, 2008
/s/ Kelli Porterfield | ||
Kelli Porterfield Sole Incorporator |
Exhibit 3.26
BY-LAWS
OF
VALASSIS IN-STORE SOLUTIONS, INC. (the Corporation)
ARTICLE I
Offices
Section 1. Registered Office. The registered office of the Corporation shall be located in Wilmington, Delaware.
Section 2. Other Offices. The Corporation may also have offices at such other places as the Board of Directors may from time to time determine or the business of the corporation may require.
ARTICLE II
Meetings of Stockholders
Section 1. Annual Meetings. The annual meeting of stockholders for the election of directors and for the transaction of such other business as may properly come before the meeting shall be held at such date and time, within or without the State of Delaware, as the Board of Directors shall determine.
Section 2. Special Meeting. Special meetings of stockholders for the transaction of such business as may properly come before the meeting may be called by order of the Board of Directors, the Chairman, the President, any Vice President, the Secretary or any Assistant Secretary and shall be called by any such officer at the request in writing of stockholders holding together at least a majority of all the shares of the Corporation issued and outstanding and entitled to vote at the meeting, and shall be held at such date and time, within or without the State of Delaware, as may be specified by such order.
Section 3. Notice. Written notice of all meetings of stockholders shall be given to each stockholder of record who is entitled to vote at such meetings, stating the place, date, and time of the meeting, and, in the case of a special meeting, the purpose or purposes for which the meeting is called. Except as otherwise provided by law, a copy of the notice of any meeting shall be given, personally, by mail or by telecopy, not less than ten days nor more than sixty days before the date of the meeting, and directed to each stockholder of record at his record address. Notice by mail shall be deemed to be given when deposited, with postage thereon prepaid, in the United States mails. If a meeting is adjourned to another time, not more than thirty days thereafter, and/or to another place, and if an announcement of the adjourned time and/or place is
made at the meeting, it shall not be necessary to give notice of the adjourned meeting unless, after adjournment, a new record date is fixed for the adjourned meeting.
Section 4. Stockholder List. The officer who has charge of the stock ledger of the Corporation shall prepare and make, at least ten days before every meeting of stockholders, a complete list of the stockholders, arranged in alphabetical order, and showing the address of each stockholder and the number of shares registered in the name of each stockholder. Such list shall be open to the examination of any stockholder, for any purpose germane to the meeting, during ordinary business hours, for a period of at least ten days prior to the meeting, either at a place within the city or other municipality or community where the meeting is to be held, which place shall be specified in the notice of the meeting, or if not so specified, at the place where the meeting is to be held. The list shall also be produced and kept at the time and place where the meeting is to be held and during the whole time of the meeting, and may be inspected by any stockholder who is present.
Section 5. Proxy Representation. Every stockholder may authorize another person or persons to act for him by proxy in all matters in which a stockholder is entitled to participate, whether by waiving notice of any meeting, voting or participating at a meeting, or expressing consent or dissent without a meeting. Every proxy must be signed by the stockholder granting such proxy or by his attorney-in-fact. No proxy shall be voted or acted upon after three years from its date unless such proxy provides for a longer period. A duly executed proxy shall be irrevocable if it states that it is irrevocable and, if, and only as long as, it is coupled with an interest sufficient in law to support an irrevocable power.
Section 6. Quorum; Adjournments. Except as otherwise provided by law, a quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting of stockholders shall consist of the holders of record of a majority of the shares of the capital stock of the corporation, issued and outstanding, entitled to vote at the meeting, present in person or by proxy. In the absence of a quorum at any meeting or any adjournment thereof, the holders of record of a majority of the shares present in person or by proxy and entitled to vote at such meeting may adjourn such meeting from time to time. At any such adjourned meeting at which a quorum is present any business may be transacted which might have been transacted at the meeting as originally called.
Section 7. Conduct of Meeting. Meetings of stockholders shall be presided over by the Chairman, or in his absence, a chairman chosen by a plurality of the directors, or, if not so chosen, by the stockholders entitled to vote who are present in person or by proxy at the meeting. The Secretary of the Corporation shall act as secretary of every meeting, but if the Secretary is not present, the presiding officer of the meeting shall appoint any person present to act as secretary of the meeting.
Section 8. Voting. At each meeting of stockholders, each stockholder entitled to vote any shares on any matter to be voted upon at such meeting shall be entitled to one vote on such matter for each such share. In the election of directors, a plurality of the votes cast shall elect. Any other action shall be authorized by a majority of the votes cast, except as otherwise provided by law. Voting by ballot shall not be required for the election of directors or any other corporate action, except as otherwise provided by law.
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Section 9. Written Consent of Shareholders Without a Meeting. Unless otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation, any action required to be taken at any annual or special meeting of stockholders of the Corporation, or any action which may be taken at any annual or special meeting of such stockholders, may be taken without a meeting, without prior notice and without a vote, if a consent in writing, setting forth the action so taken and the date of signature, shall be signed by the holders of outstanding stock having no less than the minimum number of votes that would be necessary to authorize or take such action at a meeting at which all shares entitled to vote thereon were present and voted, and delivered within 60 days of signing to the Corporation either at its registered office in Delaware, its principal place of business or to the officer or agent of the Corporation having custody of the book in which proceedings of meetings of shareholders are recorded. Prompt notice of the taking of the corporate action without a meeting by less than unanimous written consent shall be given to those stockholders who have not consented in writing.
ARTICLE III
Directors
Section 1. Functions and Definition. The business and affairs of the Corporation shall be managed by, or under the direction of, the Board of Directors. The use of the phrase whole Board herein refers to the total number of directors which the Corporation would have if there were no vacancies.
Section 2. Qualifications and Number. A director need not be a stockholder, a citizen of the United States, or a resident of the State of Delaware. The number of directors constituting the whole Board of Directors shall not be less than one, nor more than twelve. The number of directors may be modified by resolution of the Board of Directors, but in no event shall the number of directors be less than one.
Section 3. Election and Term. The initial Board of Directors shall be elected by the Incorporator and shall hold office until the first annual meeting of stockholders or until their successors are elected and qualified or until their earlier resignation or removal. Thereafter, directors who are elected at an annual meeting of stockholders, and directors who are elected in the interim to fill vacancies and newly created directorships, shall hold office until the next annual meeting of stockholders and until their successors are elected and qualified or until their earlier resignation or removal. At each meeting of the stockholders for the election of directors, provided a quorum is present, the directors shall be elected by a plurality of the votes validly cast in such election.
Section 4. Annual Meeting. Following each annual election of directors, the newly elected Board of Directors shall meet for the purpose of the election of officers and the transaction of such other business as may properly come before the meeting.
Section 5. Regular Meetings. Regular meetings of the Board of Directors shall be held at such time and place as the Board of Directors shall from time to time by resolution determine.
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Section 6. Special Meetings. Special meetings of the Board of Directors shall be held whenever called by the direction of the Chairman, President, any Vice President, the Secretary, or any Assistant Secretary, and shall be called by any such officer at the request of any director or at the request in writing of stockholders owning more than 40% of the outstanding capital stock of the Corporation or by any director of the Corporation.
Section 7. Place. Meetings of the Board of Directors may be held at any place within or without the State of Delaware.
Section 8. Notice. A notice of the place, date and time of each regular meeting of the Board of Directors shall be given to each director by mailing the same not less than seven and not more than twenty-eight days before the meeting, or by telegraphing, telexing, telecopying or telephoning the same or by delivering the same personally not less than four and not more than fourteen days before the meeting, at the residence address of each director or at his usual place of business. Special meetings of the Board of Directors may be called on 24 hours notice, if notice is given to each director personally by telephone, by telecopier or by telegram, or on five days notice if notice is mailed to each director in the United States or, if such notice is sent outside the United States, by overnight courier (next- or two-day delivery guaranteed), to each director addressed to him at the residence address of each director or at his usual place of business.
Section 9. Quorum. Except as otherwise provided by law, the Certificate of Incorporation or these By-Laws, at all meetings of the Board of Directors, a majority of the entire Board of Directors shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business and the act of a majority of the directors present at any meeting at which there is a quorum shall be the act of the Board of Directors. If a quorum shall not be present at any meeting of the Board of Directors, the directors present thereat may adjourn the meeting from time to time, without notice other than announcement at the meeting, until a quorum shall be present.
Section 10. Organization. At all meetings of the Board of Directors, the Chairman, or in his absence a director chosen by a plurality of the directors present at such meeting shall preside. The Secretary of the Corporation shall act as secretary at all meetings of the Board of Directors when present, and, in his absence, the presiding officer may appoint any person to act as secretary.
Section 11. Resignation and Removal of Directors. Any director may resign at any time, and such resignation shall take effect upon receipt thereof by the chairman, President or Secretary, unless otherwise specified in the resignation. Any or all of the directors may be removed, with or without cause, by the holders of a majority of the shares of stock outstanding and entitled to vote for the election of directors. Any vacancy in the Board of Directors caused by any such removal may be filled at such meeting by the stockholders entitled to vote for the election of the director so removed. If such stockholders do not fill such vacancy at such meeting (or in the written instrument effecting such removal, if such removal was effected by consent without a meeting), such vacancy may be filled in the manner provided in Section 12 of these By-Laws.
Section 12. Vacancies. Unless otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation or in these By-Laws, vacancies among the directors, whether caused by resignation, death,
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disqualification, removal, an increase in the authorized number of directors or otherwise, may be filled by a resolution duly adopted by a majority of the directors then in office, although less than a quorum. A Director elected to fill a vacancy or a newly created directorship shall hold office until his successor has been elected and qualified or until his earlier death, resignation or removal. Any such vacancy or newly created directorship may also be filled at any time by vote of the stockholders.
Section 13. Action Without a Meeting. Any action required or permitted to be taken by the Board of Directors or a committee thereof may be taken without a meeting if all members of the Board of Directors or the committee consent in writing to the adoption of a resolution authorizing the action. The resolution and the written consents thereto by the members of the Board of Directors or committee shall be filed with the minutes of the proceedings of the Board of Directors or committee.
Section 14. Telephone, etc. Meetings. Members of the Board of Directors, or any committee designated by the Board of Directors, may participate in a meeting of the Board of Directors, or committee, by means of conference telephone or similar communications equipment by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other, and such participation shall constitute presence in person at such meeting.
Section 15. Reliance. A board or committee member shall be fully protected in relying in good faith upon the records of the corporation and upon information, opinions, reports, or statements presented to the corporation by its officers and employees, board committees, or any other person as to matters the board or committee member reasonably believes are within such other persons professional or expert competence and who has been selected with reasonable care.
Section 16. Interested Directors. No contract or transaction between the Corporation and one or more of its directors or officers, or between the Corporation and any other corporation, partnership, association, or other organization in which one or more of its directors or officers are directors or officers, or have a financial interest, shall be void or voidable solely for this reason, or solely because the director or officer is present at or participates in the meeting of the Board of Directors or committee thereof which authorizes the contract or transaction, or solely because his or their votes are counted for such purpose if (i) the material facts as to his or their relationship or interest and as to the contract or transaction are disclosed or are known to the Board of Directors or the committee, and the Board of Directors or committee in good faith authorizes the contract or transaction by the affirmative votes of a majority of the disinterested directors, even though the disinterested directors be less than a quorum, or (ii) the material facts as to his or their relationship or interest and as to the contract or transaction are disclosed or are known to the stockholders entitled to vote thereon, and the contract or transaction is specifically approved in good faith by vote of the stockholders, or (iii) the contract or transaction is fair as to the Corporation as of the time it is authorized, approved or ratified, by the Board of Directors, a committee thereof or the stockholders. Common or interested directors may be counted in determining the presence of a quorum at a meeting of the Board of Directors or of a committee which authorizes the contract or transaction.
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ARTICLE IV
Committees
Section 1. Executive Committee. The Board of Directors, by a resolution passed by a vote of a majority of the whole Board, may appoint an Executive Committee of one or more directors which, except as otherwise provided by the Board of Directors, shall have and exercise all the powers of the Board of Directors in the management of the property, business and affairs of the Corporation, including the power and authority to issue stock, and may authorize the seal of the Corporation to be affixed to all papers which may require it; provided, however, that the Executive Committee shall not have any power or authority to:
(a) declare cash dividends,
(b) amend the Certificate of Incorporation (except that a Committee may, to the extent authorized in the resolution or resolutions providing for the issuance of shares of stock adopted by the Board of Directors as provided in Section 151(a) of the General Corporation Law, fix the designations and any of the preferences or rights of such shares relating to dividends, redemption, dissolution, any distribution of assets of the corporation or the conversion into, or the exchange of such shares for, shares of any other class or classes or any other series of the same or any other class or classes of stock of the Corporation or fix the number of shares of any series of stock or authorize the increase or decrease of the shares of any series),
(c) adopt an agreement of merger or consolidation,
(d) recommend to the stockholders the sale, lease or exchange of all or substantially all of the Corporations property and assets, or
(e) recommend to the stockholders a dissolution of the Corporation or a revocation of a dissolution.
The Board of Directors shall appoint the Chairman of the Executive Committee and may designate one or more directors as alternate members of the Executive Committee, who may replace any absent or disqualified member at any meeting of the Executive Committee. Vacancies on the Executive Committee shall be filled by the Board of Directors in the same manner as original appointments to such Committee.
Section 2. Other Committees. From time to time the Board of Directors by a resolution adopted by a majority of the whole Board may appoint any other committee or committees of one or more directors for any purpose or purposes, to the extent lawful, which shall have such powers as shall be determined and specified by the Board of Directors in the resolution of appointment, except that no committee shall have the power or authority to take the actions set forth in paragraphs (a), (b), (c), (d) or (e) of Section 1 of Article IV above.
Section 3. Procedures Applicable to All Committees. Each committee shall fix its own rules of procedure, and shall meet where and as provided by such rules or by resolution of the Board of Directors. The presence of a majority of the then appointed members of a committee shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business by that committee, and in
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every case where a quorum is present the affirmative vote of a majority of the members of the committee present shall be the act of the committee. Any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of any such committee may be taken without a meeting, if all members of such committee, shall consent to such action in writing and such writing or writings are filed with the minutes of the proceedings of the committee. Each committee shall keep minutes of its proceedings, and any action taken by a committee shall be reported to the Board of Directors at its meeting next succeeding such action.
Section 4. Action by Telephonic Communications. Members of any committee designated by the Board of Directors may participate in a meeting of such committee by means of conference telephone or similar communications equipment by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other, and participation in a meeting pursuant to this provision shall constitute presence in person at such meeting.
Section 5. Absent or Disqualified Members. In the absence or disqualification of a member of any committee, the member or members thereof present at any meeting and not disqualified from voting, whether or not he or they constitute a quorum, may unanimously appoint another member of the Board of Directors to act at the meeting in the place of any such absent or disqualified member.
Section 6. Termination of Committee Membership. In the event any person shall cease to be a director of the Corporation, such person shall simultaneously therewith cease to be a member of any committee appointed by the Board of Directors. Any member (and any alternate member) of any committee may be removed at any time, either for or without cause, by resolution adopted by the Board of Directors.
ARTICLE V
Officers
Section 1. Executive Officers. The executive officers of the Corporation shall be a President, a Treasurer and a Secretary, all of whom shall be elected annually by the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors, in its discretion, may choose any one or more Vice Presidents. The Board of Directors, in its discretion, may choose a Chairman of the Board of Directors (who must be a director), who need not be a shareholder. Unless otherwise provided in the resolution of election, each officer shall hold office until the next annual election of directors and until his successor shall have been elected and qualified or until his earlier resignation or removal. Any number of offices may be held by the same person unless otherwise prohibited by law.
Section 2. Other Officers. The Board of Directors may appoint one or more Assistant Secretaries or Assistant Treasurers as it may deem necessary or advisable, for such term as the Board of Directors shall fix in such appointment, who shall have such authority and perform such duties as may from time to time be prescribed by the Board.
Section 3. Resignation and Removal. Any officer may resign his office at any time and such resignation shall take effect upon receipt thereof by the Chairman, the President or the
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Board of Directors, unless otherwise specified in the resignation. All officers, agents and employees of the Corporation shall be subject to removal, with or without cause, at any time by a resolution of the Board. The power to remove agents and employees, other than officers or agents elected or appointed by the Board of Directors, may be delegated as the Board of Directors shall determine.
Section 4. The Chairman. The Chairman, if there be one, shall preside at all meetings of the stockholders and directors at which he is present. He shall have the same authority as the President to sign, in the name and on behalf of the Corporation, checks, orders, contracts, leases, notes, drafts and other documents and instruments in connection with the business of the corporation, and together with the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary, conveyances of real estate and other documents and instruments to which the seal of the Corporation is affixed. The Chairman shall perform such other duties and have such other powers as the Board of Directors may from time to time prescribe.
Section 5. The President. The President shall, subject to the control of the Board of Directors and, if there be one, the Chairman of the Board of Directors, have general supervision of the business of the Corporation and shall see that all orders and resolutions of the Board of Directors are carried into effect. The President shall be the Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation. He shall execute all bonds, mortgages, contracts and other instruments of the Corporation requiring a seal, under the seal of the Corporation, except where required or permitted by law to be otherwise signed and executed and except that the other officers of the Corporation may sign and execute documents when so authorized by these By-Laws, the Board of Directors or the President. The President shall also perform such other duties and may exercise such other powers as from time to time may be assigned to him by these By-Laws or by the Board of Directors.
Section 6. The Vice Presidents. Each Vice President, if there be any, shall perform such duties and exercise such powers as may be assigned to him from time to time by a resolution of a majority of the Board of Directors. In the absence of the President, the duties of the President shall be performed and his powers may be exercised by any such Vice President as shall be designated by the President, or failing such designation, such duties shall be performed and such powers may be exercised by each Vice President in the order of their earliest election to that office, subject in any case to review and superseding action by the President.
Section 7. The Treasurer. The Treasurer shall be the chief financial officer of the Corporation and shall have the following powers and duties:
(a) The Treasurer shall have charge and supervision over and be responsible for the moneys, securities, receipts and disbursements of the Corporation, and shall keep or cause to be kept full and accurate records of all receipts of the Corporation.
(b) He shall cause the moneys and other valuable effects of the Corporation to be deposited in the name and to the credit of the Corporation in such banks or trust companies or with such bankers or other depositaries as shall be selected by the Board of Directors, the Chairman, the President or a Vice President.
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(c) He shall cause the moneys of the Corporation to be disbursed by checks or drafts upon the authorized depositaries of the Corporation and cause to be taken and preserved proper vouchers for all moneys disbursed.
(d) He shall render to the Board of Directors or the President, whenever requested, a statement of the financial condition of the Corporation and of all his transactions as Treasurer, and render a full financial report at the annual meeting of the stockholders, if called upon to do so.
(e) He shall be empowered from time to require from all officers or agents of the Corporation reports or statements giving such information as he may desire with respect to any and all financial transactions of the corporation.
(f) He may sign (unless an Assistant Treasurer or the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary shall have signed) certificates representing stock of Corporation the issuance of which shall have been authorized by the Board Directors.
(g) He shall perform, in general, all duties incident to the office of treasurer and such other duties as may be specified in these By-Laws or as may be assigned to him from time to time by the Board of Directors, or the President.
(h) In the absence of the President and any Vice Presidents, the duties of the President shall be performed by the Treasurer.
Section 8. The Secretary. The Secretary shall have the following powers and duties:
(a) The Secretary shall keep or cause to be kept a record of all the proceedings of the meetings of the stockholders and of the Board of Directors in books provided for that purpose and shall be entitled to attend all meetings of the Board of Directors.
(b) The Secretary shall cause all notices to be duly given in accordance with the provisions of these By-Laws and as required by law.
(c) Whenever any committee shall be appointed pursuant to a resolution of the Board of Directors, the Secretary shall furnish a copy of such resolution to the members of such committee.
(d) The Secretary shall be the custodian of the records and of the seal of the Corporation and cause such seal (or a facsimile thereof) to be affixed to all certificates representing shares of the Corporation prior to the issuance thereof and to all instruments the execution of which on behalf of the corporation under its seal shall have been duly authorized in accordance with these By-Laws, and when so affixed he may attest the same.
(e) The Secretary shall properly maintain and file all books, reports, statements, certificates and all other documents and records required by law, the certificate of Incorporation or these By-Laws.
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(f) The Secretary shall have charge of the stock books and ledgers of the Corporation and shall cause the stock and transfer books to be kept in such manner as to show at any time the number of shares of stock of the Corporation of each class issued and outstanding, the names and the addresses of the holders of record of such shares, the number of shares held by each holder and the date as of which each became such holder of record.
(g) The Secretary shall sign (unless the Treasurer, an Assistant Treasurer or Assistant Secretary shall have signed) certificates representing shares of the Corporation the issuance of which shall have been authorized by the Board of Directors.
(h) The Secretary shall perform, in general, all duties incident to the office of secretary and such other duties as may be specified in these By-Laws or as may be assigned to him from time to time by the Board of Directors, or the President.
ARTICLE VI
Stock
Section 1. Certificates of Stock, Uncertificated Shares. The shares of the Corporation shall be represented by certificates, provided that the Board of Directors may provide by resolution or resolutions that some or all of any or all classes or series of the stock of the Corporation shall be uncertificated shares. Any such resolution shall not apply to shares represented by a certificate until each certificate is surrendered to the corporation. Notwithstanding the adoption of such a resolution by the Board of Directors, every holder of stock in the Corporation represented by certificates and upon request every holder of uncertificated shares shall be entitled to have a certificate signed by, or in the name of the corporation, by the President or a Vice President, and by the Treasurer or an Assistant Treasurer, or the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary, representing the number of shares registered in certificate form. Such certificate shall be in such form as the Board of Directors may determine, to the extent consistent with applicable law, the Certificate of Incorporation and these By-Laws.
The Corporation may issue a new certificate of stock in place of any certificate theretofore issued by it, alleged to have been lost, stolen or destroyed, and the Board of Directors may require the owner of any lost, stolen, or destroyed certificate, or his legal representative, to give the Corporation a bond sufficient to indemnify the Corporation against any claim that may be made against it on account of the alleged loss, theft, or destruction of any such certificate or the issuance of any such new certificate.
Section 2. Stock Transfers. Upon surrender to the Corporation or the transfer agent of the Corporation of a certificate for shares, duly endorsed or accompanied by appropriate evidence of succession, assignment or authority to transfer, the Corporation shall issue a new certificate to the person entitled thereto, cancel the old certificate and record the transaction upon its books. Within a reasonable time after the transfer of uncertificated stock, the Corporation shall send to the registered owner thereof a written notice containing the information required to be set forth or stated on certificates pursuant to Sections 151, 156, 202(a) or 218(a) of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware. Subject to the provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation and these By-Laws, the Board of Directors may prescribe such additional rules
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and regulations as it may deem appropriate relating to the issue, transfer and registration of shares of the Corporation.
Section 3. Record Date for Stockholders. For the purpose of determining the stockholders entitled to notice of or to vote at any meeting of stockholders or any adjournment thereof, or to express consent or dissent from any corporate action in writing without a meeting, or for the purpose of determining the stockholders entitled to receive payment of any dividend or other distribution or the allotment of any rights, or entitled to exercise any rights in respect of any change, conversion, or exchange of stock or for the purpose of any other lawful action, the Board of Directors may fix, in advance, a date as the record date for any such determination of stockholders, which shall not be more than sixty days nor less than ten days before the date of such meeting, nor more than sixty days prior to any other action. A determination of stockholders of record entitled to notice of or to vote of a meeting of stockholders shall apply to any adjournment of the meeting; provided, however, that the Board of Directors may fix a new record date for the adjourned meeting.
Section 4. Dividends. The Board of Directors shall have the right, subject to any applicable provisions of law and the Certificate of Incorporation, to declare dividends to the Corporations stockholders in any amount whatsoever out of those moneys legally available under applicable state law.
Section 5. Registered Stockholders. Prior to due surrender of a certificate for registration of transfer, the Corporation may treat the registered owner as the person exclusively entitled to receive dividends and other distributions, to vote, to receive notice and otherwise to exercise all the rights and powers of the owner of the shares represented by such certificate, and the corporation shall not be bound to recognize any equitable or legal claim to or interest in such shares on the part of any other person, whether or not the Corporation shall have notice of such claim or interests. Whenever any transfer of shares shall be made for collateral security, and not absolutely, it shall be so expressed in the entry of the transfer if, when the certificates are presented to the Corporation for transfer or uncertificated shares are requested to be transferred, both the transferor and transferee request the Corporation to do so.
ARTICLE VII
Waiver of Notice
Any person may waive any notice required to be given by law, in the Certificate of Incorporation or under these By-Laws (i) by attendance in person, or by proxy if a stockholder, at any meeting, except when such person attends a meeting for the express purpose of objecting, at the beginning of the meeting, to the transaction of any business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened, or (ii) by a writing signed by the person or persons entitled to said notice, whether before or after the time stated in said notice, which waiver shall be deemed equivalent to such notice. Neither the business to be transacted at, nor the purpose of, any regular or special meeting of the stockholders, directors, or members of a committee of directors need be specified in any written waiver of notice.
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ARTICLE VIII
General Provisions
Section 1. Contracts. The Chairman, President, any Vice President, the Secretary or Treasurer may enter into any contract or execute and deliver any instrument in the name and on behalf of the Corporation. The Board of Directors may authorize any officer or officers, agent or agents, in the name and on behalf of the Corporation, to enter into or execute and deliver any and all deeds, bonds, mortgages, contracts and other obligations or instruments, and such authority may be general or confined to specific instances.
Section 2. Sale, Transfer, etc. of Securities. To the extent authorized by the Board of Directors or by the Chairman, President, or any Vice President, the Secretary or the Treasurer or any other officers designated by the Board of Directors or the President may sell, transfer, endorse, and assign any shares of stock, bonds or other securities owned by or held in the name of the Corporation, and may make, execute and deliver in the name of the Corporation, under its corporate seal, any instruments that may be appropriate to effect any such sale, transfer, endorsement or assignment.
Section 3. Voting as Stockholder. Unless otherwise determined by resolution of the Board of Directors, the Chairman, President or any Vice President shall have full power and authority on behalf of the Corporation to attend any meeting of stockholders of any corporation in which the Corporation may hold stock, and to act, vote (or execute proxies to vote) and exercise in person or by proxy all other rights, powers and privileges incident to the ownership of such stock. Such Officers acting on behalf of the Corporation shall have full power and authority to execute any instrument expressing consent to or dissent from any action of any such corporation without a meeting. The Board of Directors may by resolution from time to time confer such power and authority upon any other person or persons.
Section 4. Corporate Seal. The seal of the Corporation shall be circular in form and contain the name of the Corporation and the words Corporate Seal and Delaware, which seal shall be in charge of the Secretary to be used as directed by the Board of Directors.
Section 5. Fiscal Year. The fiscal year of the Corporation shall be fixed, and shall be subject to change, by the Board of Directors. Unless otherwise fixed by the Board of Directors, fiscal year of the Corporation shall commence on the first day of January of the each year (except for the Corporations first fiscal year which shall commence on the date of incorporation) and shall terminate in each case on December 31.
ARTICLE IX
Exculpation and Indemnification
Section 1. Exculpation. No person who is or was a director of the Corporation shall be personally liable to the Corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director unless, and only to the extent that, such director is liable (i) for any breach of the directors duty of loyalty to the Corporation or its stockholders, (ii) for acts or
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omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (iii) under Section 174 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware or any amendment thereto or successor provision thereto, or (iv) for any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit. No amendment to, repeal or adoption of any provision of the Certificate of Incorporation inconsistent with this Article shall apply to or have any effect on the liability of any director of the Corporation for or with respect to any acts or omissions of such director occurring prior to such amendment, repeal, or adoption of an inconsistent provision. If the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware hereafter is amended to authorize the further elimination or limitation of the liability of directors, then the liability of a director of the corporation, in addition to the limitation on personal liability provided herein, shall be limited to the fullest extent permitted by the amended General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware.
Section 2. Who May Be Indemnified. (a) Actions, Suits and Proceedings Other Than by or in the Right of the Corporation. The Corporation shall indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative (other than an action by or in the right of the Corporation) by reason of the fact that he is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, against expenses (including attorneys fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by him in connection with such action, suit or proceeding if he acted in good faith and in a manner he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his conduct was unlawful. The termination of any action, suit or proceeding by judgment, order, settlement, conviction, or upon a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent, shall not, of itself, create a presumption that the person did not act in good faith and in a manner which he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had reasonable cause to believe that his conduct was unlawful.
(b) Actions or Suits By or in the Right of the Corporation. The Corporation shall indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action or suit by or in the right of the Corporation to procure a judgment in its favor by reason of the fact that he is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise against expenses (including attorneys fees) actually and reasonably incurred by him in connection with the defense or settlement of such action or suit if he acted in good faith and in a manner he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation and except that no indemnification shall be made in respect of any claim, issue or matter as to which such person shall have been adjudged to be liable for negligence or misconduct in the performance of his duty to the corporation unless and only to the extent that the Court of Chancery or the court in which such action or suit was brought shall determine upon application that, despite the adjudication of liability but in view of all the circumstances of the case, such person is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnity for such expenses which the Court of Chancery or such other court shall deem proper.
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(c) Indemnification for Expenses. To the extent that a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation has been successful on the merits or otherwise in defense of any action, suit or proceeding referred to in paragraph (a) or (b), or in defense of any claim, issue or matter therein, he shall be indemnified against expenses (including attorneys fees) actually and reasonably incurred by him in connection therewith.
(d) Determination of Entitlement to Indemnification. Any indemnification of a director or officer of the Corporation under paragraph (a) or (b) hereof (unless ordered by a court) shall be made by the Corporation only as authorized in the specific case upon a determination that indemnification of the director, officer, employee or agent is proper in the circumstances because he has met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in paragraph (a) or (b) of this section. Such determination shall be made (1) by the Board of Directors by a majority vote of a quorum consisting of directors who were not parties to such action, suit or proceeding, or (2) if such a quorum is not obtainable, or, even if obtainable a quorum of disinterested directors so directs, by independent legal counsel in a written opinion, or (3) by the stockholders.
(e) Good Faith Defined. For purposes of any determination under Sections 2(a), 2(b) or 2(d) of this Article IX, a person shall be deemed to have acted in good faith and in a manner he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation, or, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, to have no reasonable cause to believe his conduct was unlawful, if his action is based on the records or books of account of the Corporation or another enterprise, or on information supplied to him by the officers of the Corporation or another enterprise in the course of their duties, or on the advice of legal counsel for the Corporation or another enterprise or on information or records given or reports made to the corporation or another enterprise by an independent certified public accountant or by an appraiser or other expert selected with reasonable care by the Corporation or another enterprise. The term another enterprise as used in this Section 4 shall mean any other corporation or partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise of which such person is or was serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent. The provisions of this Section 2(e) shall not be deemed to be exclusive or to limit in any way the circumstances in which a person may be deemed to have met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in Sections 2(a) or 2(b) of this Article IX, as the case may be.
(f) Advance of Expenses. Expenses incurred by an officer or director in defending any civil, criminal, administrative or investigative action, suit or proceeding shall be paid by the Corporation in advance of the final disposition of such action, suit or proceeding upon receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of such director or officer to repay such amount if it shall ultimately be determined that he is not entitled to be indemnified by the Corporation as authorized in this Article. Such expenses (including attorneys fees) incurred by other employees and agents may be so paid upon such terms and conditions, if any, as the Board of Directors deems appropriate.
(g) Procedure for Indemnification of Directors and Officers. Any indemnification of a director or officer of the Corporation under paragraph (a) or (b) or advance of costs, charges and expenses to a director or officer under paragraph (f) hereof, shall be made promptly, and in any event within 30 days, upon the written request of the director or officer. If a determination by the Corporation that the director or officer is or is not entitled to
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indemnification pursuant to this Article is required, and the Corporation fails to respond within sixty days to a written request for indemnity, the Corporation shall be deemed to have approved such request. If the Corporation denies a written request for indemnity or advancement of expenses, in whole or in part, or if payment in full pursuant to such request is not made within 30 days, the right to indemnification or advances as granted by this Article shall be enforceable by the director or officer in any court of competent jurisdiction. Such persons costs and expenses incurred in connection with successfully establishing his right to indemnification, in whole or in part, in any such action shall also be indemnified by the corporation. It shall be a defense to any such action (other than an action brought to enforce a claim for the advance of costs, charges and expenses under paragraph (f) hereof where the required undertaking, if any, has been received by the Corporation) that the claimant has not met the standard of conduct set forth in paragraph (a) or (b), but the burden of proving such defense shall be on the Corporation. Neither the failure of the Corporation (including its Board of Directors, its independent legal counsel, and its stockholders) to have made a determination prior to the commencement of such action that indemnification of the claimant is proper in the circumstances because he has met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in paragraph (a) or (b), nor the fact that there has been an actual determination by the Corporation (including its Board of Directors, its independent legal counsel, and its stockholders) that the claimant has not met such applicable standard of conduct, shall be a defense to the action or create a presumption that the claimant has not met the applicable standard of conduct.
Section 3. Indemnification Not Exclusive Right. The indemnification and advancement of expenses provided by, or granted pursuant to, this Article shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which those seeking indemnification and advancement of expenses may be entitled under any by-law, agreement, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise, both as to action in his official capacity and as to action in another capacity while holding such office. The provisions of this Article IX shall not be deemed to preclude the indemnification of any person who is not specified in Sections 2(a) and 2(b) of this Article IX but whom the Corporation has the power or obligation to indemnify under the provisions of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, or otherwise.
Section 4. Insurance. The Corporation shall have power to purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise against any liability asserted against him and incurred by him in any such capacity, or arising out of his status as such, whether or not the Corporation would have the power to indemnify him against such liability under the provisions of this Article.
Section 5. Corporation Defined for Indemnification Purposes. For purposes of this Article, references to the Corporation shall include (in addition to the Corporation and any resulting corporation) any constituent corporation (including any constituent of a constituent) absorbed in a consolidation or merger which, if its separate existence had continued, would have had power and authority to indemnify its directors, officers, and employees or agents, so that any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of such constituent corporation, or is or was serving at the request of such constituent corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, shall stand in
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the same position under the provisions of this Article with respect to the resulting or surviving corporation as he would with respect to such constituent corporation if its separate existence had continued.
Section 6. Other Definitions for Indemnification Purposes. For purposes of this Article, references to other enterprises shall include employee benefit plans; references to fines shall include any excise taxes assessed on a person with respect to any employee benefit plan; and references to serving at the request of the Corporation shall include any service as a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation which imposes duties on, or involves services by, such director, officer, employee, or agent with respect to an employee benefit plan, its participants or beneficiaries; and a person who acted in good faith and in a manner he reasonably believed to be in the interest of the participants and beneficiaries of an employee benefit plan shall be deemed to have acted in a manner not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation as referred to in this Article.
Section 7. Survival. The indemnification and advancement of expenses provided by, or granted pursuant to, this Article shall continue as to a person who has ceased to be a director, officer, employee or agent and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors and administrators of such a person.
ARTICLE X
Amendments
The Board of Directors shall have power to adopt, amend or repeal By-Laws other than those contained in Article IX of these By-Laws. By-Laws adopted by the Board of Directors may be repealed or changed, and new By-Laws made, by the stockholders, and the stockholders may prescribe that any By-Law made by them shall not be altered, amended or repealed by the Board of Directors.
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Exhibit 3.33
Michigan Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth
Filing Endorsement
This Is to Certify that the ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION (DOMESTIC L.L.C.)
for
VC HOLDINGS, LLC
ID NUMBER: D4728N
received by facsimile transmission on August 27, 2010 is hereby endorsed
Filed on August 27, 2010 by the Administrator.
The document is effective on the date filed, unless a
subsequent effective date within 90 days after
received date is stated in the document
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the Department in the City of Lansing, this 27TH day of August, 2010. | ||
GOLD SEAL APPEARS ONLY ON ORIGINAL Sent by Facsimile Transmission 10239 |
Director
Bureau of Commercial Services |
BCS/CD700 (Rev. 01/09)
MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY, LABOR & ECONOMIC GROWTH BUREAU OF COMMERCIAL SERVICES |
||||||||||
Date Received |
(FOR BUREAU USE ONLY) | |||||||||
This document is effective on the data filed, unless a subsequent effective date within 90 days after received date is stated in the document. | ||||||||||
Name | ||||||||||
Clifford G. Maine, Barnes & Thornburg LLP |
||||||||||
Address | ||||||||||
171 Monroe Avenue N.W., Suite 1000 |
|
|||||||||
City | State | Zip Code | ||||||||
Grand Rapids |
MI | 49503 | EFFECTIVE DATE: |
Document will be returned to the name and address you enter above. If left blank document will be mailed to the registered office. ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION For use by Domestic Limited Liability Companies (Please read information and instructions on last page) |
||||
B | ||||
Pursuant to the provisions of Act 23, Public Acts of 1993, the undersigned execute the following Articles: |
ARTICLE I
The name of the limited liability company is: VC Holdings, LLC |
ARTICLE II
The purpose or purposes for which the limited liability company is formed is to engage in any activity within the purposes for which a limited liability company may be formed under the Limited Liability Company Act of Michigan.
ARTICLE III
The duration of the limited liability company if other than perpetual is: Perpetual
ARTICLE IV | ||||||||||||||||||
1. The street address of the location of the registered office is: |
| |||||||||||||||||
30600 Telegraph Road, Suite 2345 |
Bingham Farms | , Michigan | 48025 | |||||||||||||||
(Street Address) | (City) | (ZIP Code) | ||||||||||||||||
2. The mailing address of the registered office if different than above: |
| |||||||||||||||||
, Michigan | ||||||||||||||||||
(Street Address of P.O. Box) | (City) | (ZIP Code) | ||||||||||||||||
3. The name of the resident agent at the registered office is: CT Corporation |
|
ARTICLE V (Insert any desired additional provision authorized by the Act; attach additional pages if needed.)
Signed this day of , | ||||||||||
By |
||||||||||
Signature(s) of Organizer(s) | ||||||||||
Todd Wisely, General Counsel and Senior Vice President of Administration of Valassis Communications, Inc. | ||||||||||
(Type or Print Name(s) of Organizer(s)) |
Exhibit 3.34
EXHIBIT A
Operating Agreement
VC Holdings, LLC (the Company) and the undersigned member (Member) have executed this Agreement (Agreement) as of the date on the signature page and agree as follows:
1. Formation; Name; Purpose, The Company has been formed pursuant to the provisions of the Michigan Limited Liability Company Act (Act) by the execution and filing of its articles of organization (as the same may be amended, the Articles) with the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth (Department). The name and purpose of the Company will be as set forth in the Articles.
2. Offices. The principal office and any additional office of the Company will be at such place or places inside or outside the state of Michigan as the Member may designate from time to time. The initial registered office of the Company and its-resident agent are as set forth in the Articles and as may be changed in accordance with the provisions of the Act.
3. Member. The Company shall be a limited liability company with one member. The name and address of the Member of the Company are set forth on the signature page.
4. Management of Company. The Company shall be managed by its Member.
5. Appointment of Officers. The Member may, but shall not be required to, appoint a President, Secretary, Treasurer, one or more Vice Presidents, Assistant Secretaries and Assistant Treasurers, and any other officer positions, any of whom need not be a Member. The officers shall have the authority, power and duties that are set forth in this Agreement or prescribed by the Member.
(a) Term and Removal of Officers. The same person may bold two or more offices. An officer shall hold office for the term the Member specifies upon appointment and until a successor is appointed and qualified, or until the officers death, resignation, removal or disability. The Member may remove an officer at any time with or without cause. An officer may resign by written notice to the Company. The resignation is effective upon its receipt by the Company or at a later date specified in the notice.
(b) President. The President, if one is appointed, shall have general charge, control and supervision over the administration and operations of the Company. The President shall ensure that all orders and resolutions of the Member are carried into effect. If a Secretary or Treasurer is not appointed by the Member, the President shall perform the duties of the Secretary or Treasurer, as applicable, as set forth in this Agreement. The President sha/1 have the authority to make or execute contracts, instruments, papers or other documents of any kind or nature in the name or on behalf of the Company or otherwise bind the Company.
(c) Vice President The Member may designate one or more Vice Presidents to perform the duties and exercise the authority of the President during the Presidents absence.
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Each Vice President shall perform other duties that the Member prescribes or that the President (if so authorized by the Member) assigns.
(d) Secretary. Except when the Act, the Articles, this Agreement or the Member specify the same to be done by the Member or another officer or agent, the Secretary, if one is appointed, shall cause to be recorded and maintained minutes of all relevant meetings of the Member, and the Secretary shall cause to be given all notices required by law, the Articles, this Agreement or the Member and shall perform other duties that the Member prescribes or that the President (if so authorized by the Member) assigns.
(e) Treasurer. The Treasurer, if one is appointed, shall cause to be kept in books belonging to the Company a full and accurate account of all receipts, disbursements and other financial transactions of the Company. The Treasurer shall perform other duties that the Member prescribes or that the President (if so authorized by the Member) assigns.
(f) Assistant Secretaries and Assistant Treasurers. An Assistant Secretary or an Assistant Treasurer may perform any duty or exercise any authority of the Secretary or Treasurer, respectively. An Assistant Secretary or Assistant Treasurer shall perform other duties that the Member prescribes or that the President (if so authorized by the Member) assigns.
(g) Other Officers. The Member may appoint other officers to perform duties and exercise authority that the Member prescribes or that the President (if so authorized by the Member) assigns.
6. Capital Contributions; Accounting.
(a) In exchange for the Members interest, the Member will contribute to the capital of the Company, the cash and/or property set forth on the attached signature page. The Member will have no obligation to make any further capital contributions to the Company. Any additional capital contributions must be so designated in writing by the Member and the Company. Any funds contributed to or advances made on behalf of the Company by the Member that are not designated as capital contributions will be loans payable by the Company to the Member on demand together with interest at the prime rate from the date of the contribution or advance until repaid in full. The Member will not be paid interest on any capital contribution. The Member will not have the right to receive a return of, the Members capital contribution.
(b) The operations of the Company will be treated for federal tax purposes as the operations of the Member.
(c) The fiscal year of the Company will be the fiscal year of the Member. The books and records of the Company will be maintained in accordance with good accounting practices.
(d) Real and personal property owned by the Company will be held, and conveyance made, in the Companys name. Funds of the Company will be deposited in the name of the Company with the financial institutions and in the accounts as determined by the Member, subject to authorized signatures that the Member may determine.
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7. Assignments of Interest in the Company. The Member may sell, assign, pledge, or otherwise transfer or encumber (collectively transfer) all, but not less than all, of the Members interest in the Company. The Member may transfer a portion of the Members interest in the Company, but only if an operating agreement is entered into that provides for voting rights, allocations of profit and loss, tinting of distributions, designation of a tax matters partner, and other matters customarily addressed in a limited liability company operating agreement. Any transfer of a portion of the Members interest without amending the Articles and entering into such an operating agreement will be void.
8. Withdrawal and Dissolution.
(a) The Member will have the right to withdraw from the Company upon such terms and conditions as agreed between the Member and the Company. The Member may evidence withdrawal from the Company only by filing a certificate of dissolution with the Department.
(b) The Company will be dissolved and its affairs wound up upon the Member filing a certificate of dissolution with the Department. Upon the winding up of the Company, the assets will be distributed as provided in the Act.
9. Additional Members. The Company may admit one or more additional Members upon such terms and conditions, and for such capital contributions, as may be determined by the Company and the Member. No additional members may be admitted unless an operating agreement is adopted as required in paragraph 6 above. Any admission of an additional member without such actions will be void.
10. Distributions. Distributions of cash or other assets of the Company will be made at such times and in such amounts as the Member may determine; provided, however, that a distribution will not be made if the Company would not be able to pay its debts as they become due in the usual course of business, or the Companys total assets would be less than the sum of its total liabilities, except as permitted by the Act.
11. Limitation on Liability. The Member is not liable for the acts, debts or obligations of the Company.
12. Indemnification. The monetary liability of the Member for breach of any duty established under Section 404 of the Act is limited to the fullest extent permitted by the Act. The Company will indemnify and hold harmless the Member from and against any and all losses, expenses, claims, and demands sustained by reason of any acts or omissions or alleged acts or omissions of the Member, including judgments, settlements, penalties, fines, or expenses incurred in a proceeding to which the Member is a party or threatened to be made a party because the person is or was a member to the fullest extent permitted by law or contract and not subject to any restriction by this Agreement.
13. Amendment. This Agreement may be amended only in writing signed by the Member and the Company specifically stating that this Agreement is amended.
A-3
SIGNATURE PAGE
OF OPERATING AGREEMENT FOR
VC HOLDINGS, LLC
Capital Contribution: | Signature of Member: | |||||||
$1,000 | VALASSIS COMMUNICATIONS, LLC | |||||||
/s/ Todd L. Wiseley | ||||||||
Todd L. Wiseley, Esq. | ||||||||
Secretary | ||||||||
Address: 19975 Victor Parkway, Livonia, Michigan 48152 | ||||||||
Signature of Company: | ||||||||
VC Holdings, LLC By Valassis Communications, Inc . | ||||||||
Its: Sole Member | ||||||||
Dated: August 27, 2010 | By: | /s/ Todd L. Wiseley | ||||||
Its: | Todd L. Wiseley, Secretary |
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[MWE Letterhead]
Exhibit 5.1
May 23, 2011
Valassis Communications, Inc.
19975 Victor Parkway
Livonia, Michigan 48152
Re: | Registration Statement on Form S-4 Relating to $260,000,000 Aggregate Principal |
Amount of 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021 and Related Guarantees
Ladies and Gentlemen:
We have acted as special counsel to Valassis Communications, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the Company), and the Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined below) in connection with the preparation and filing with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the Commission) of a registration statement on Form S-4 (the Registration Statement) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act), relating to the offer to exchange by the Company of up to $260,000,000 aggregate principal amount of its 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021 (the Exchange Notes) and the guarantees (the Guarantees) of the subsidiary guarantors listed in the Registration Statement (the Subsidiary Guarantors), in each case, which are being registered under the Securities Act, for a like principal amount of its outstanding, unregistered 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021 issued on January 28, 2011 (the Original Notes) and the related guarantees. The Original Notes have been, and the Exchange Notes will be, issued pursuant to an indenture (the Indenture), dated as of January 28, 2011, by and among the Company, the Subsidiary Guarantors and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee (the Trustee).
In rendering the opinions set forth below, we have examined and relied on originals or copies of (i) the Registration Statement and the prospectus contained therein, (ii) the Indenture (including the form of Exchange Note included as an exhibit thereto), (iii) the Guarantees, (iv) the certificates of incorporation, certificate of formation, articles of organization, operating agreements, by-laws and other organizational documents of the Company and the Subsidiary Guarantors, and (v) and such other records, documents, certificates and instruments as we have deemed necessary or appropriate as a basis for the opinions set forth below.
In our examination of the documents referred to above, we have assumed, without independent investigation, the genuineness of all signatures, including endorsements, the legal capacity of all individuals who have executed any of the documents reviewed by us, the authenticity of all documents submitted to us as originals, the conformity to the originals of all documents submitted to us as certified, photostatic, reproduced or conformed copies of valid existing agreements or other documents, the authenticity of all the latter documents and that the statements regarding matters of fact in the certificates, records, agreements, instruments and documents that we have examined are accurate and complete. With regard to factual matters, we have been provided with, and with your consent have relied (without independent verification)
Valassis Communications, Inc.
May 23, 2011
Page 2
upon, representations, certificates and statements of the Company and the Subsidiary Guarantors and their respective officers and other representatives and of public officials.
For purposes of the opinions set forth herein, we have assumed that: (i) the Trustee is and has been duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of its jurisdiction of organization and is duly qualified to engage in the activities contemplated by the Indenture; (ii) the Indenture has been duly authorized, executed and delivered by, and constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation of, the Trustee, enforceable against the Trustee in accordance with its terms; (iii) the Trustee is in compliance, generally and with respect to acting as a trustee under the Indenture, with all applicable laws and regulations; and (iv) the Trustee had and has the requisite organizational and legal power and authority to perform its obligations under the Indenture. We have also assumed, with your consent, that the Exchange Notes and the related Notations of Guarantee will be in the forms attached to the Indenture and that any information omitted from such forms will be properly added.
Based on the foregoing, and subject to the limitations, qualifications, exceptions and assumptions set forth herein, it is our opinion that when (i) the Registration Statement has become effective under the Securities Act, (ii) the Original Notes have been exchanged in the manner described in the prospectus forming a part of the Registration Statement, (iii) the Exchange Notes have been duly executed, authenticated, issued and delivered in accordance with the terms of the Indenture upon receipt of the Original Notes surrendered in exchange therefor, (iv) the Indenture had been duly qualified under the Trust Indenture Act of 1939, as amended, and (v) applicable provisions of blue sky laws have been complied with,
1. | the Exchange Notes will constitute valid and binding obligations of the Company, enforceable against the Company in accordance with their terms; and |
2. | and when the Notations of Guarantee in the form included as an exhibit to the Indenture are endorsed by each Subsidiary Guarantor in accordance with the terms of the Indenture, the Guarantees will constitute valid and binding obligations of the Subsidiary Guarantors, enforceable against the Subsidiary Guarantors in accordance with their terms. |
The opinions set forth herein are subject, in each case, to the following qualifications: (a) enforcement may be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, fraudulent conveyance, moratorium and other similar laws now or hereafter existing affecting creditors rights generally and by general principles of equity, including, without limitation, concepts of materiality, reasonableness, good faith and fair dealing (regardless of whether enforcement is sought in equity or at law) and (b) we express no opinion as to (i) the enforceability of any rights to contribution or indemnification provided for in the Indenture which are violative of the public policy underlying any law, rule or regulation (including any federal or state securities law, rule
Valassis Communications, Inc.
May 23, 2011
Page 3
or regulation), (ii) whether a federal or state court outside the State of New York would give effect to any choice of law provided for in the Exchange Notes, (iii) any provisions of the Exchange Notes that relate to the subject matter jurisdiction of the federal or state courts of a particular jurisdiction to adjudicate any controversy related to the Exchange Notes or the transactions contemplated thereby, (iv) any waiver of inconvenient forum set forth in the Exchange Notes or (v) any waiver of jury trial found in the Exchange Notes.
In rendering the opinions set forth herein, we have assumed that the execution and delivery by the Company and the Subsidiary Guarantors of the Indenture, the Exchange Notes and the Guarantees, as the case may be, and the performance by the Company and the Subsidiary Guarantors of their respective obligations thereunder, do not and will not violate, conflict with or constitute a default under any agreement or instrument to which the Company, the Subsidiary Guarantors or their respective properties are subject, except that we do not make this assumption with respect to those agreements and instruments which have been identified to us by the Company and the Subsidiary Guarantors as being material to the Company and the Subsidiary Guarantors and which are listed as exhibits to (i) the Companys Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010 filed with the Commission on March 1, 2011, or (ii) the Companys Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the first quarter ended March 31, 2011 filed with the Commission on May 10, 2011.
Members of this firm are admitted to the bar in the State of New York and we express no opinion as to the laws of any jurisdiction other than the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (including the statutory provisions, all applicable provisions of the Delaware Constitution and reported judicial decisions interpreting the foregoing), the Limited Liability Company Act of the State of Delaware and the laws of the State of New York that, in our experience, are normally applicable to transactions of the type contemplated by the Registration Statement.
Insofar as the opinions expressed herein relate to or are dependent upon matters governed by the laws of the State of Michigan, we have relied upon the opinion of Todd L. Wiseley, Esq., General Counsel of the Company, dated the date hereof and being filed as Exhibit 5.2 to the Registration Statement.
We hereby consent to the filing of this opinion letter as an exhibit to the Registration Statement and to the reference to our Firm under the caption Legal Matters in the prospectus included in the Registration Statement. In giving this consent, we do not thereby admit that we are within the category of persons whose consent is required under Section 7 of the Securities Act or the rules and regulations of the Commission thereunder.
This opinion letter is limited to the matters expressly set forth herein and no opinion is implied or may be inferred beyond the matters expressly so stated. The opinions rendered herein are as of the date hereof. We assume no obligation to update or supplement these opinions to reflect any facts which may hereafter come to our attention or any changes in law which may hereafter occur.
Sincerely,
/s/ McDermott Will & Emery LLP
Exhibit 5.2
May 23, 2011
Valassis Communications, Inc.
19975 Victor Parkway
Livonia, Michigan 48152
Re: | Registration Statement on Form S-4 Relating to $260,000,000 Aggregate Principal |
Amount of 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021 and Related Guarantees
Ladies and Gentlemen:
I am the General Counsel and Senior Vice President, Administration of Valassis Communications, Inc., a Delaware corporation (Valassis). I am delivering this opinion in connection with certain matters of Michigan law in connection with the preparation and filing with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the Commission) of a registration statement on Form S-4 (the Registration Statement) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act), relating to the offer to exchange by Valassis of up to $260,000,000 aggregate principal amount of its 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021 (the Exchange Notes) and the guarantees (the Guarantees) of the subsidiary guarantors listed in the Registration Statement (the Subsidiary Guarantors), in each case, which are being registered under the Securities Act, for a like principal amount of its outstanding, unregistered 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021 issued on January 28, 2011 (the Original Notes) and the related guarantees. The Original Notes have been, and the Exchange Notes will be, issued pursuant to an indenture (the Indenture), dated as of January 28, 2011, by and among Valassis, the Subsidiary Guarantors and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee (the Trustee). VC Holdings, LLC, a Michigan limited liability company (the Company), is one of the named Subsidiary Guarantors. Capitalized terms used in this letter that are not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings assigned to them in the Indenture.
In rendering the opinions set forth below, I have reviewed the following documents, each of which is dated as of the date indicated below:
1. | Indenture, dated as of January 28, 2011; |
2. | The form of Notation of Guarantee to be executed by the Company with respect to the Exchange Notes as attached as Exhibit D to the Indenture (the Notation of Guarantee); |
3. | Written Consent of the Sole Member, dated January 13, 2011, authorizing the Company to enter into and perform its obligations under the Indenture and the Notation of Guarantee (the Members Consent); |
4. | A certified copy of the Articles of Organization of the Company certified by the Secretary of the State of Michigan and a copy of the Operating Agreement of the Company (collectively, the Companys Organizational Documents); |
5. | A certificate issued by the Secretary of State of Michigan, dated as of May 17, 2011, attesting to the continued existence and good standing of the Company; and |
6. | Such other records, documents, certificates and instruments as I have deemed necessary or appropriate as a basis for the opinions set forth below. |
In my examination of the documents referred to above, I have assumed, without independent investigation, the genuineness of all signatures, including endorsements, the legal capacity of all individuals who have executed any of the documents I reviewed, the authenticity of all documents submitted to me as originals, the conformity to the originals of all documents submitted to me as certified, photostatic, reproduced or conformed copies of valid existing agreements or other documents, the authenticity of all the latter documents and that the statements regarding matters of fact in the certificates, records, agreements, instruments and documents that I have examined are accurate and complete.
For purposes of the opinions set forth herein, I have assumed that: (i) the Trustee is and has been duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of its jurisdiction of organization and is duly qualified to engage in the activities contemplated by the Indenture; (ii) the Indenture has been duly authorized, executed and delivered by, and constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation of, the Trustee, enforceable against the Trustee in accordance with its terms; (iii) the Trustee is in compliance, generally and with respect to acting as a trustee under the Indenture, with all applicable laws and regulations; and (iv) the Trustee had and has the requisite organizational and legal power and authority to perform its obligations under the Indenture.
I am admitted to the Bar in the State of Michigan and I express no opinions as to the laws of any other jurisdiction other than the laws of the State of Michigan.
Based upon the foregoing, and subject to the limitations, qualifications, exceptions and assumptions set forth herein, I am of the opinion that:
1. The Company (a) based solely on the applicable certificate described in clause (5) above, as of the date specified in such certificate, is validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the State of Michigan, and (b) has the requisite limited liability company power and authority to own, lease and operate its properties and to conduct its business and to enter into, execute, deliver and perform its obligations under the Indenture and the Notation of Guarantee.
2. All required limited liability company action has been taken by the Company to authorize the execution, delivery and performance by the Company of the Indenture and the Notation of Guarantee and the transactions contemplated thereby.
3. The Indenture has been duly executed and delivered by the Company.
4. The due execution and delivery of, and the performance of its obligations under, the Indenture and the Notation of Guarantee by the Company do not and will not conflict with, contravene or violate (i) the Companys Organizational Documents, (ii) any judicial or administrative order or decree of which I have actual knowledge issued pursuant to any
Generally Applicable Law (as defined below) or by any Michigan Court or governmental agency or (iii) any Generally Applicable Law.
5. Under Generally Applicable Law, there is no authorization, consent or approval of, or notice to or filing with, any State of Michigan or federal court or governmental authority which is required to enable the Company to execute, deliver and perform its obligations under the Indenture and the Notation of Guarantee.
For purposes of this opinion, Generally Applicable Law means the presently existing laws and rules and regulations of the State of Michigan which a lawyer exercising customary professional diligence would reasonably be expected to recognize as being applicable to entities such as the Company in transactions involving the issuance, exchange and registration of notes of the nature contemplated in the Indenture, the Notation of Guarantee and the Registration Statement. Without limiting the foregoing definition of Generally Applicable Law, the term Generally Applicable Law does not include any federal or state securities or blue sky laws or rules or regulations thereunder, and any anti-fraud or similar laws.
In addition to any assumptions, qualifications and other matters set forth elsewhere herein, I express no opinion with respect to the ordinances and statutes, the administrative decisions and orders and the rules and regulations of any municipality, county or special district or other political subdivision of any state.
The foregoing opinion may be relied upon by McDermott Will & Emery LLP. This opinion letter is limited to the matters expressly set forth herein and no opinion is implied or may be inferred beyond the matters expressly so stated. This opinion letter is given as of the date hereof and I do not undertake any liability or responsibility to inform you of any change in circumstances occurring, or additional information becoming available to me, after the date hereof which might alter the opinions contained herein.
I hereby consent to the filing of this opinion letter as an exhibit to the Registration Statement and to the reference to myself under the caption Legal Matters in the prospectus included in the Registration Statement. In giving this consent, I do not thereby admit that I am within the category of persons whose consent is required under Section 7 of the Securities Act or the rules and regulations of the Commission thereunder.
Sincerely,
/s/ Todd L. Wiseley
EXHIBIT 12.1
VALASSIS COMMUNICATIONS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
STATEMENT OF COMPUTATION OF RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended March 31, |
Year Ended December 31, | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(in thousands of U.S. dollars) |
2011 | 2010 | 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Fixed charges: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Interest expense |
$ | 9,775 | $ | 20,156 | $ | 64,904 | $ | 87,041 | $ | 98,903 | $ | 93,779 | $ | 19,862 | (a) | |||||||||||||
Portion of rent expense representative of interest |
2,260 | 2,294 | 9,174 | 9,513 | 10,419 | 8,967 | 2,900 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Total fixed charges |
$ | 12,035 | $ | 22,450 | $ | 74,078 | $ | 96,554 | $ | 109,322 | $ | 102,746 | $ | 22,762 | ||||||||||||||
Earnings (Loss): |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Earnings (loss) before income taxes |
$ | 34,707 | $ | 524,364 | $ | 632,655 | $ | 110,943 | $ | (215,837 | ) | $ | 79,996 | $ | 74,674 | |||||||||||||
Fixed charges per above |
12,035 | 22,450 | 74,078 | 96,554 | 109,322 | 102,746 | 22,762 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Total earnings (loss) |
$ | 46,742 | $ | 546,814 | $ | 706,733 | $ | 207,497 | $ | (106,515 | ) | $ | 182,742 | $ | 97,436 | |||||||||||||
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges |
3.88 | 24.36 | 9.54 | 2.15 | (b) | 1.78 | 4.28 | |||||||||||||||||||||
(a) | Excludes $13,751 of interest expense for premiums and losses on swap and swaption contracts. These contracts are unrelated to our indebtedness. |
(b) | Earnings for the year ended December 31, 2008 were inadequate to cover fixed charges by $215.8 million. |
Exhibit 23.3
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration Statement on Form S-4 of our reports dated March 1, 2011, relating to the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule of Valassis Communications, Inc. and subsidiaries (the Company) and the effectiveness of the Companys internal control over financial reporting appearing in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2010, and to the reference to us under the heading Experts in the Prospectus, which is part of this Registration Statement.
/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Detroit, Michigan
May 23, 2011
Exhibit 25.1
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM T-1
STATEMENT OF ELIGIBILITY
UNDER THE TRUST INDENTURE ACT OF 1939 OF A
CORPORATION DESIGNATED TO ACT AS TRUSTEE
¨ | CHECK IF AN APPLICATION TO DETERMINE ELIGIBILITY OF A TRUSTEE PURSUANT TO SECTION 305(b) (2) |
WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
(Exact name of trustee as specified in its charter)
A National Banking Association | 94-1347393 | |
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization if not a U.S. national bank) |
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) | |
101 North Phillips Avenue Sioux Falls, South Dakota |
57104 | |
(Address of principal executive offices) | (Zip code) |
Wells Fargo & Company
Law Department, Trust Section
MAC N9305-175
Sixth Street and Marquette Avenue, 17th Floor
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55479
(612) 667-4608
(Name, address and telephone number of agent for service)
VALASSIS COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
See Table of Subsidiary Guarantor Registrants
Listed On Schedule A Hereto
(Exact name of obligor as specified in its charter)
Delaware | 38-2760940 | |
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) |
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) | |
19975 Victor Parkway Livonia, MI |
48152 | |
(Address of principal executive offices) | (Zip code) |
Valassis Communications, Inc. 6.625% Senior Notes due 2021
and Guarantees of 6.625% Senior Notes due 2021
(Title of the indenture securities)
Schedule A
Table of Subsidiary Guarantor Registrants
Exact Name of Additional Registrant |
State or Other Jurisdiction or Organization |
Primary Standard Classification Code Number/SIC |
I.R.S. Employer Number | |||
MailCoups, Inc. |
Delaware | 7331 | 04-3407977 | |||
MailCoups Direct, Inc. |
Delaware | 7331 | 86-1139548 | |||
NCH Marketing Services, Inc. |
Delaware | 7310 | 33-0689617 | |||
NCH NuWorld Spain Inc. |
Delaware | 7310 | 51-0403070 | |||
Perimeter Marketing Company |
Delaware | 7310 | 57-1229418 | |||
Promotion Watch, Inc. |
Delaware | 7310 | 38-3413140 | |||
Valassis Coupon Clearing, Inc. |
Delaware | 7310 | 32-0078209 | |||
Valassis Data Management, Inc. |
Delaware | 7310 | 38-3552742 | |||
Valassis Direct Mail, Inc. |
Delaware | 7331 | 06-0885252 | |||
Valassis Interactive, Inc. |
Delaware | 7310 | 38-3573420 | |||
Valassis International, Inc. |
Delaware | 7310 | 38-3196604 | |||
Valassis In-Store Solutions, Inc. |
Delaware | 7310 | 30-0545900 | |||
Valassis Manufacturing Company |
Delaware | 7310 | 38-3635808 | |||
Valassis Relationship Marketing Systems, LLC | Delaware | 7310 | 38-3635808 | |||
Valassis Sales & Marketing Services, Inc. | Delaware | 7310 | 38-3573415 | |||
VC Holdings, LLC |
Michigan | 7359 | 27-3406201 | |||
VCI Enterprises, Inc. |
Delaware | 7310 | 74-2639132 |
* | The address of each of the additional registrants is c/o Valassis Communications, Inc., 19975 Victor Parkway, Livonia, Michigan 48152, telephone (734) 591-3000. |
Item 1. General Information. Furnish the following information as to the trustee:
(a) | Name and address of each examining or supervising authority to which it is subject. |
Comptroller of the Currency
Treasury Department
Washington, D.C.
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
Washington, D.C.
Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco
San Francisco, California 94120
(b) | Whether it is authorized to exercise corporate trust powers. |
The trustee is authorized to exercise corporate trust powers.
Item 2. Affiliations with Obligor. If the obligor is an affiliate of the trustee, describe each such affiliation.
None with respect to the trustee.
No responses are included for Items 3-14 of this Form T-1 because the obligor is not in default as provided under Item 13.
Item 15. Foreign Trustee. Not applicable.
Item 16. List of Exhibits. List below all exhibits filed as a part of this Statement of Eligibility.
Exhibit 1. | A copy of the Articles of Association of the trustee now in effect.* | |
Exhibit 2. | A copy of the Comptroller of the Currency Certificate of Corporate Existence and Fiduciary Powers for Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, dated February 4, 2004.** | |
Exhibit 3. | See Exhibit 2 | |
Exhibit 4. | Copy of By-laws of the trustee as now in effect.*** | |
Exhibit 5. | Not applicable. | |
Exhibit 6. | The consent of the trustee required by Section 321(b) of the Act. | |
Exhibit 7. | A copy of the latest report of condition of the trustee published pursuant to law or the requirements of its supervising or examining authority. | |
Exhibit 8. | Not applicable. | |
Exhibit 9. | Not applicable. |
* | Incorporated by reference to the exhibit of the same number to the trustees Form T-1 filed as exhibit 25 to the Form S-4 dated December 30, 2005 of file number 333-130784-06. |
** | Incorporated by reference to the exhibit of the same number to the trustees Form T-1 filed as exhibit 25 to the Form T-3 dated March 3, 2004 of file number 022-28721. |
*** | Incorporated by reference to the exhibit of the same number to the trustees Form T-1 filed as exhibit 25 to the Form S-4 dated May 26, 2005 of file number 333-125274. |
SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Trust Indenture Act of 1939, as amended, the trustee, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, a national banking association organized and existing under the laws of the United States of America, has duly caused this statement of eligibility to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, all in the City of Minneapolis and State of Minnesota on the 23rd day of May 2011.
WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION | ||
/s/ Lynn M. Steiner |
||
Lynn M. Steiner Vice President |
EXHIBIT 6
May 23, 2011
Securities and Exchange Commission
Washington, D.C. 20549
Gentlemen:
In accordance with Section 321(b) of the Trust Indenture Act of 1939, as amended, the undersigned hereby consents that reports of examination of the undersigned made by Federal, State, Territorial, or District authorities authorized to make such examination may be furnished by such authorities to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon its request therefor.
Very truly yours, | ||
WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION | ||
/s/ Lynn M. Steiner |
||
Lynn M. Steiner Vice President |
EXHIBIT 7
Consolidated Report of Condition of
Wells Fargo Bank National Association
of 101 North Phillips Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57104
And Foreign and Domestic Subsidiaries,
at the close of business March 31, 2011, filed in accordance with 12 U.S.C. §161 for National Banks.
Dollar Amounts In Millions |
||||||||
ASSETS |
||||||||
Cash and balances due from depository institutions: |
||||||||
Noninterest-bearing balances and currency and coin |
$ | 17,369 | ||||||
Interest-bearing balances |
74,672 | |||||||
Securities: |
||||||||
Held-to-maturity securities |
0 | |||||||
Available-for-sale securities |
145,551 | |||||||
Federal funds sold and securities purchased under agreements to resell: |
||||||||
Federal funds sold in domestic offices |
6,481 | |||||||
Securities purchased under agreements to resell |
10,955 | |||||||
Loans and lease financing receivables: |
||||||||
Loans and leases held for sale |
19,408 | |||||||
Loans and leases, net of unearned income |
686,307 | |||||||
LESS: Allowance for loan and lease losses |
18,779 | |||||||
Loans and leases, net of unearned income and allowance |
667,528 | |||||||
Trading Assets |
34,595 | |||||||
Premises and fixed assets (including capitalized leases) |
8,062 | |||||||
Other real estate owned |
5,290 | |||||||
Investments in unconsolidated subsidiaries and associated companies |
588 | |||||||
Direct and indirect investments in real estate ventures |
108 | |||||||
Intangible assets |
||||||||
Goodwill |
20,936 | |||||||
Other intangible assets |
27,181 | |||||||
Other assets |
54,306 | |||||||
Total assets |
$ | 1,093,030 | ||||||
LIABILITIES |
||||||||
Deposits: |
||||||||
In domestic offices |
$ | 749,729 | ||||||
Noninterest-bearing |
171,738 | |||||||
Interest-bearing |
577,991 | |||||||
In foreign offices, Edge and Agreement subsidiaries, and IBFs |
93,508 | |||||||
Noninterest-bearing |
1,895 | |||||||
Interest-bearing |
91,613 | |||||||
Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase: |
||||||||
Federal funds purchased in domestic offices |
1,809 | |||||||
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase |
14,094 |
Dollar Amounts In Millions |
||||
Trading liabilities |
19,802 | |||
Other borrowed money |
||||
(includes mortgage indebtedness and obligations under capitalized leases) |
38,506 | |||
Subordinated notes and debentures |
17,445 | |||
Other liabilities |
32,953 | |||
Total liabilities |
$ | 967,846 | ||
EQUITY CAPITAL |
||||
Perpetual preferred stock and related surplus |
0 | |||
Common stock |
519 | |||
Surplus (exclude all surplus related to preferred stock) |
98,980 | |||
Retained earnings |
19,029 | |||
Accumulated other comprehensive income |
5,381 | |||
Other equity capital components |
0 | |||
Total bank equity capital |
123,909 | |||
Noncontrolling (minority) interests in consolidated subsidiaries |
1,275 | |||
Total equity capital |
125,184 | |||
Total liabilities, and equity capital |
$ | 1,093,030 | ||
I, Timothy J. Sloan, EVP & CFO of the above-named bank do hereby declare that this Report of Condition has been prepared
in conformance with the instructions issued by the appropriate Federal regulatory authority and is true to the best of my knowledge
and belief.
Timothy J. Sloan
EVP & CFO
We, the undersigned directors, attest to the correctness of this Report of Condition and declare that it has been examined by us
and to the best of our knowledge and belief has been prepared in conformance with the instructions issued by the appropriate
Federal regulatory authority and is true and correct.
John Stumpf | Directors | |||
Dave Hoyt | ||||
Michael Loughlin |
Exhibit 99.1
Letter of Transmittal
VALASSIS COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
Offer to Exchange
Registered 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021
For a Like Principal Amount of
Outstanding, Unregistered 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021
Pursuant to the Prospectus Dated , 2011
THE EXCHANGE OFFER WILL EXPIRE AT 5:00 P.M., NEW YORK CITY TIME, ON , 2011, UNLESS EXTENDED (SUCH DATE AND TIME, AS IT MAY BE EXTENDED, THE EXPIRATION DATE). TENDERED SECURITIES MAY BE WITHDRAWN AT ANY TIME PRIOR TO 5:00 P.M., NEW YORK CITY TIME, ON THE EXPIRATION DATE.
The Exchange Agent for the Exchange Offer is:
Wells Fargo Bank, National Association
By Registered Mail or Certified Mail: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. MAC - N9303-121 Corporate Trust Operations P.O. Box 1517 Minneapolis, MN 55480-1517 |
By Regular Mail or Overnight Courier: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. MAC - N9303-121 Corporate Trust Operations Sixth Street & Marquette Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55479 |
By Hand: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Northstar East Building - 12th floor Corporate Trust Services 608 Second Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55402 |
By Facsimile (eligible institutions only): (612) 667-6282
Telephone Inquiries: (800) 344-5128
DELIVERY OF THIS LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL TO AN ADDRESS, OR TRANSMISSION OF THIS LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL VIA FACSIMILE TO A NUMBER, OTHER THAN AS SET FORTH ABOVE WILL NOT CONSTITUTE A VALID DELIVERY.
The method of delivery of all documents, including certificates, is at the risk of the holder. Instead of delivery by mail, we recommend that you use an overnight or hand delivery service, properly insured. You should read the instructions accompanying this letter of transmittal carefully before you complete this letter of transmittal.
The undersigned acknowledges that he, she or it has received the prospectus, dated , 2011 (the Prospectus), of Valassis Communications, Inc. (the Company), which, together with this Letter of Transmittal and the instructions hereto (this Letter of Transmittal), constitute the Companys offer (the Exchange Offer) to exchange an aggregate principal amount of up to $260,000,000 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021 of the Company (the Exchange Notes), which have been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act), for a like principal amount of the Companys outstanding, unregistered 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021 issued on January 28, 2011 (the Original Notes), pursuant to a registration statement of which the Prospectus is a part. For each Original Note accepted for exchange, the holder of such Original Note will receive an Exchange Note having a principal amount equal to that of the surrendered Original Note. Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to them in the Prospectus.
The Company reserves the right, at any time and from time to time, to extend the Exchange Offer at its discretion, in which case the term Expiration Date shall mean the latest date and time to which the Exchange Offer is extended. During any such extension, all Original Notes previously tendered will remain subject to the Exchange Offer and may be accepted for exchange by the Company. Any Original Notes not accepted for exchange for any reason will be returned without expense to the tendering holder thereof promptly following the Expiration Date.
In order to extend the Exchange Offer, the Company will notify the holders of the Original Notes of any extension by oral or written notice (which may be by means of a press release or other public announcement) prior to 9:00 a.m., New York City time, on the next business day after the previously scheduled Expiration Date. The Company expressly reserves the right, in its sole discretion, (i) to delay accepting the Original Notes, or if any of the conditions specified in the Prospectus under the section entitled The Exchange OfferConditions to the Exchange Offer shall not have been satisfied, to terminate the Exchange Offer, by giving oral or written notice of such delay or termination to the Exchange Agent, or (ii) to amend the terms of the Exchange Offer in any manner.
The Exchange Notes will bear interest from the last interest payment date on which interest was paid on the Original Notes surrendered in exchange therefor or, if no interest has been paid on such Original Notes, from the date of original issue of the Original Notes (January 28, 2011) at the same rate and upon the same terms as the Original Notes. Holders whose Original Notes are accepted for exchange will not receive interest on such Original Notes for any period subsequent to the last interest payment date, if any, of the Original Notes to occur prior to the issue date of the Exchange Notes and will be deemed to have waived the right to receive any payment in respect of interest on the Original Notes accrued from and after such interest payment date, if any.
The terms of the Exchange Notes are substantially identical to the terms of the Original Notes, except that the Exchange Notes will not contain terms with respect to transfer restrictions and will not require the Company to consummate a registered exchange offer.
The Exchange Offer is not conditioned upon any minimum principal amount of Original Notes being tendered for exchange. However, the Exchange Offer is subject to certain conditions. Please see the Prospectus under the section entitled The Exchange OfferConditions to the Exchange Offer.
The Exchange Offer is not being made to, nor will tenders be accepted from or on behalf of, holders of Original Notes in any jurisdiction in which the making or acceptance of the Exchange Offer would not be in compliance with the laws of such jurisdiction.
This Letter of Transmittal is to be completed by holders of Original Notes either if certificates are to be forwarded herewith or if tenders are to be made according to the guaranteed delivery procedures set forth in The Exchange OfferGuaranteed Delivery Procedures section of the Prospectus. Holders of Original Notes whose certificates are not immediately available, or who are unable to deliver their certificates or confirmation of the book-entry tender (a Book-Entry Confirmation) of their Original Notes into the account maintained by Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (the Exchange Agent) at The Depository Trust Company (DTC) (the Book-Entry Transfer Facility) and all other documents required by this Letter of Transmittal to the Exchange Agent prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Expiration Date, must tender their Original Notes according to the guaranteed delivery procedures set forth in The Exchange OfferGuaranteed Delivery Procedures section of the Prospectus and Instruction 1 herein.
Any holder of Original Notes who wishes to tender his, her or its Original Notes must, prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Expiration Date, either: (a) complete, sign and deliver this Letter of Transmittal, or a facsimile thereof, to the Exchange Agent, in person or to the address or facsimile number set forth above and tender (and not withdraw) certificates representing his, her or its Original Notes or (b) if a tender of Original Notes is to be made by book-entry transfer to the account maintained by the Exchange Agent at DTC, provide a Book-Entry Confirmation or an agents message, in each case in accordance with the procedures for tendering described in the instructions to this Letter of Transmittal.
Delivery of this Letter of Transmittal and any other required documents must be made to the Exchange Agent. Delivery to the Company will not constitute a valid tender. Delivery of documents to DTC does not constitute delivery to the Exchange Agent. Book-entry transfer to DTC in accordance with DTCs procedures does not constitute delivery of the Book-Entry Confirmation to the Exchange Agent.
Upon the terms and subject to the conditions of the Exchange Offer, the acceptance for exchange of the Original Notes validly tendered and not withdrawn and the issuance of the Exchange Notes will be made promptly following the Expiration Date.
Please read this entire Letter of Transmittal and the Prospectus carefully before completing this Letter of Transmittal or checking any box below. The instructions included in this Letter of Transmittal must be followed. Questions and requests for assistance or for additional copies of the Prospectus, this Letter of Transmittal or the Notice of Guaranteed Delivery may be directed to the Exchange Agent at the address and telephone number indicated above.
Except as otherwise provided herein, Holders who wish to accept the Exchange Offer and tender their Original Notes must complete this Letter of Transmittal in its entirety and comply with all of its terms.
Please list below the Original Notes to which this Letter of Transmittal relates. If the space provided below is inadequate, list the certificate numbers and principal amounts on a separate signed schedule and attach the schedule hereto.
DESCRIPTION OF ORIGINAL NOTES | ||||||
Name(s) and Address(es) of Registered Holder(s) (Please fill in, if blank) |
Certificate Number(s)* (Attach signed list, if necessary) |
Aggregate Principal Amount of Original Notes Represented by Certificate(s) |
Principal Amount of Original Notes Tendered (if less than all)** | |||
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DESCRIPTION OF ORIGINAL NOTES | ||||||
Name(s) and Address(es) of Registered Holder(s) (Please fill in, if blank) |
Certificate Number(s)* (Attach signed list, if necessary) |
Aggregate Principal Amount of Original Notes Represented by Certificate(s) |
Principal Amount of Original Notes Tendered (if less than all)** | |||
Total Principal Amount of Original Notes Tendered: | ||||||
* Certificate numbers not required if Original Notes are being tendered by book-entry transfer. ** Unless otherwise indicated, a holder will be deemed to have tendered all of the Original Notes represented in the Aggregate Principal Amount of Original Notes Represented by Certificate(s) column. See Instruction 2. Original Notes tendered hereby must be in denominations of principal amounts equal to $1,000 or integral multiples thereof. See Instruction 1. | ||||||
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¨ | CHECK HERE IF CERTIFICATES FOR TENDERED ORIGINAL NOTES ARE ENCLOSED HEREWITH. |
¨ | CHECK HERE IF TENDERED ORIGINAL NOTES ARE BEING DELIVERED BY BOOK-ENTRY TRANSFER TO THE ACCOUNT MAINTAINED BY THE EXCHANGE AGENT WITH THE BOOK-ENTRY TRANSFER FACILITY AND COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING: |
Name of Tendering Institution: |
DTC Book-Entry Account: |
Transaction Code No.: |
¨ | CHECK HERE AND ENCLOSE A PHOTOCOPY OF THE NOTICE OF GUARANTEED DELIVERY IF TENDERED ORIGINAL NOTES ARE BEING DELIVERED PURSUANT TO A NOTICE OF GUARANTEED DELIVERY PREVIOUSLY DELIVERED TO THE EXCHANGE AGENT AND COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING: |
Name(s) of Holder(s) of Original Notes: |
Window Ticket Number(s) (if any): |
Date of Execution of the Notice of Guaranteed Delivery: |
Name of Institution which Guaranteed Delivery: |
¨ | CHECK HERE IF TENDERED ORIGINAL NOTES ARE BEING DELIVERED BY BOOK-ENTRY TRANSFER AND COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING: |
Name of Tendering Institution: |
DTC Book-Entry Account: |
Transaction Code No.: |
¨ | CHECK HERE IF YOU ARE A BROKER-DEALER WHO ACQUIRED THE ORIGINAL NOTES FOR ITS OWN ACCOUNT AS A RESULT OF MARKET-MAKING OR OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES AND WISH TO RECEIVE 10 ADDITIONAL COPIES OF THE PROSPECTUS AND 10 COPIES OF ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS THERETO. |
Name: |
Address: |
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NOTE: SIGNATURES MUST BE PROVIDED BELOW.
PLEASE READ THE ACCOMPANYING INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY.
Ladies and Gentlemen:
Upon the terms and subject to the conditions of the Exchange Offer, the undersigned hereby tenders to the Company the aggregate principal amount of Original Notes indicated above. The undersigned has completed, executed and delivered this Letter of Transmittal to indicate the action the undersigned desires to take with respect to the Exchange Offer.
Subject to, and effective upon, the acceptance for exchange of the Original Notes tendered hereby, the undersigned hereby sells, assigns and transfers to, or upon the order of, the Company all right, title and interest in and to such Original Notes as are being tendered hereby. The undersigned hereby irrevocably constitutes and appoints the Exchange Agent its agent and attorney-in-fact (with full knowledge that the Exchange Agent also acts as the agent of the Company in connection with the Exchange Offer and as trustee under the indenture for the Original Notes and the Exchange Notes) with respect to the tendered Original Notes with full power of substitution to (i) deliver certificates representing such Original Notes to the Company, or transfer ownership of such Original Notes on the account books maintained by DTC, together, in any such case, with all accompanying evidence of transfer and authenticity to, or upon the order of, the Company upon receipt by the Exchange Agent, as the undersigneds agent, of the Exchange Notes to be issued in exchange for such Original Notes, (ii) present such Original Notes for transfer, and transfer such Original Notes, on the books of the Company and (iii) receive for the account of the Company all benefits and otherwise exercise all rights of the beneficial ownership of such Original Notes, all in accordance with the terms of the Exchange Offer. The power of attorney granted in this paragraph shall be deemed to be irrevocable and coupled with an interest.
The undersigned hereby represents and warrants that the undersigned has full power and authority to tender, exchange, sell, assign and transfer the Original Notes tendered hereby and to acquire the Exchange Notes issuable upon the exchange of such tendered Original Notes, and that the Company will acquire good, marketable and unencumbered title to the tendered Original Notes, free and clear of all security interests, liens, restrictions, charges and encumbrances and not subject to any adverse claim or right or restriction or proxy of any kind, when the same are accepted for exchange by the Company.
The undersigned acknowledges that the Exchange Offer is being made in reliance upon the Companys understanding of existing interpretations by the staff of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the Commission) as set forth in no-action letters to third parties, that the Exchange Notes issued in exchange for the Original Notes pursuant to the Exchange Offer may be offered for resale, resold and otherwise transferred by holders thereof (other than any such holder that is an affiliate of the Company within the meaning of Rule 405 under the Securities Act), without compliance with the registration and prospectus delivery provisions of the Securities Act; provided that: (1) such holders are not affiliates of the Company within the meaning of Rule 405 under the Securities Act; (2) such Exchange Notes are acquired in the ordinary course of such holders business; and (3) such holders are not engaged in, and do not intend to engage in, a distribution of such Exchange Notes and have no arrangement or understanding with any person or entity to participate in the distribution of such Exchange Notes; provided, further, that if a holder is a broker-dealer, the holder is participating in the Exchange Offer for its own account in exchange for Original Notes that were acquired as a result of market-making or other trading activities and the holder must deliver a prospectus meeting the requirements of the Securities Act in connection with any resale of such Exchange Notes. However, the staff of the Commission has not considered this Exchange Offer in the context of a no-action letter, and there can be no assurance that the staff of the Commission would make a similar determination with respect to this Exchange Offer as in other circumstances. If a holder of Original Notes is an affiliate of the Company, acquires the Exchange Notes other than in the ordinary course of such holders business or is engaged in or intends to engage in a distribution of the Exchange Notes or has any arrangement or understanding with respect to the distribution of the Exchange Notes to be acquired pursuant to the Exchange Offer, such holder could not rely on the applicable interpretations of the staff of the Commission and must comply with the registration and prospectus delivery requirements of the Securities Act in connection with any secondary resale transaction.
The undersigned hereby represents and warrants that:
(i) | the Exchange Notes acquired pursuant to the Exchange Offer are being acquired in the ordinary course of business of the undersigned and any beneficial owner of the Original Notes tendered hereby; |
(ii) | neither the undersigned holder nor any beneficial owner of the Original Notes tendered hereby is engaged in, intends to engage in, or has any arrangement or understanding with any person or entity to participate in, a distribution of the Exchange Notes within the meaning of the Securities Act; |
(iii) | neither the undersigned holder nor any beneficial owner of the Original Notes tendered hereby is an affiliate of the Company within the meaning of Rule 405 promulgated under the Securities Act or, if the holder or such beneficial owner is an affiliate, that the holder or such beneficial owner will comply with the registration and prospectus delivery requirements of the Securities Act to the extent applicable; |
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(iv) | if the undersigned or any beneficial owner of the Original Notes tendered hereby is a broker-dealer, it has not entered into any arrangement or understanding with the Company or any affiliate of the Company within the meaning of Rule 405 promulgated under the Securities Act to distribute the Exchange Notes; |
(v) | if the undersigned or any beneficial owner of the Original Notes tendered hereby is a broker-dealer that will receive Exchange Notes for its own account in exchange for Original Notes, the Original Notes to be exchanged for Exchange Notes were acquired by it as a result of market-making or other trading activities, and such broker-dealer acknowledges that it will deliver a prospectus meeting the requirements of the Securities Act in connection with any resale of such Exchange Notes; however, by so acknowledging and by delivering a prospectus, such broker-dealer will not be deemed to admit that it is an underwriter within the meaning of the Securities Act; and |
(vi) | neither the undersigned holder nor any beneficial owner of the Original Notes tendered hereby is acting on behalf of any person or entity that could not truthfully make the foregoing representations. |
The undersigned agrees that it will, upon request, execute and deliver any additional documents deemed by the Exchange Agent or the Company to be necessary or desirable to complete the sale, exchange, assignment, transfer and sale of the Original Notes tendered hereby or to transfer ownership of such Original Notes on the account books maintained by DTC.
The Exchange Offer is subject to the conditions set forth in the section of the Prospectus captioned The Exchange OfferConditions to the Exchange Offer. The undersigned recognizes that, as a result of these conditions (which may be waived, in whole or in part, by the Company), as more particularly set forth in the Prospectus, the Company may not be required to exchange any of the Original Notes tendered by this Letter of Transmittal.
For purposes of the Exchange Offer, the Company shall be deemed to have accepted validly tendered Original Notes when, as and if the Company has given oral (confirmed in writing) or written notice thereof to the Exchange Agent. If any tendered Original Notes are not accepted for exchange pursuant to the Exchange Offer for any reason, such unaccepted or non-exchanged Original Notes will be returned to the address shown below the signature of the undersigned or at a different address as may be indicated herein under Special Delivery Instructions (or, in the case of tender by book-entry transfer into the Exchange Agents account at DTC pursuant to the book-entry transfer procedures described in the section of the Prospectus captioned The Exchange OfferProcedures for Tendering, such unaccepted or non-exchanged Original Notes will be credited to an account maintained with DTC) promptly following the Expiration Date.
The undersigned understands that tenders of Original Notes pursuant to any one of the procedures described in the section of the Prospectus captioned The Exchange OfferProcedures for Tendering and in the instructions hereto will, upon the Companys acceptance of the Original Notes for exchange, constitute a binding agreement between the undersigned and the Company upon the terms and subject to the conditions of the Exchange Offer. The undersigned also agrees that acceptance of any tendered Original Notes by the Company and the issuance of Exchange Notes in exchange therefor shall constitute performance in full by the Company of its obligations under the Exchange Offer and the registration rights agreement entered into by the Company and the initial purchasers of the Original Notes and that, upon the issuance of the Exchange Notes, the Company will have no further obligations or liabilities thereunder (except in certain limited circumstances).
All authority conferred or agreed to be conferred by this Letter of Transmittal shall survive the death, incapacity, bankruptcy or dissolution of the undersigned and every obligation of the undersigned under this Letter of Transmittal shall be binding upon the undersigneds heirs, personal representatives, executors, administrators, successors, assigns, trustees in bankruptcy and other legal representatives.
This tender may be withdrawn only in accordance with the procedures set forth in the Prospectus and in this Letter of Transmittal.
By acceptance of the Exchange Offer, each broker-dealer that receives Exchange Notes pursuant to the Exchange Offer hereby acknowledges and agrees that, upon the receipt of notice by the Company of the occurrence of any event or the discovery of any fact that makes any statement in the Prospectus untrue in any material respect or that causes the Prospectus to omit to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements contained therein, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading, such broker-dealer will suspend use of the Prospectus until the Company has amended or supplemented the Prospectus to correct such misstatement or omission and has furnished copies of the amended or supplemented Prospectus to such broker-dealer or the Company has given notice that the use of the Prospectus may be resumed, as the case may be.
Unless otherwise indicated herein in the box entitled Special Issuance Instructions below, please deliver the Exchange Notes in the name of the undersigned or, in the case of a book-entry delivery of Original Notes, please credit the account indicated above maintained at the Book-Entry Transfer Facility. Similarly, unless otherwise indicated under the box entitled Special Delivery Instructions below, please send the Exchange Notes to the undersigned at the address shown above in the box entitled Description of Original Notes.
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THE UNDERSIGNED, BY COMPLETING THE BOX ENTITLED DESCRIPTION OF ORIGINAL NOTES ABOVE AND SIGNING THIS LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL, WILL BE DEEMED TO HAVE TENDERED THE ORIGINAL NOTES AS SET FORTH IN SUCH BOX ABOVE.
IMPORTANT: THIS LETTER OR A FACSIMILE HEREOF (TOGETHER WITH THE CERTIFICATES FOR ORIGINAL NOTES OR A BOOK-ENTRY CONFIRMATION AND ALL OTHER REQUIRED DOCUMENTS OR THE NOTICE OF GUARANTEED DELIVERY) MUST BE RECEIVED BY THE EXCHANGE AGENT PRIOR TO 5:00 P.M., NEW YORK CITY TIME, ON THE EXPIRATION DATE.
PLEASE READ THIS ENTIRE LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL CAREFULLY BEFORE COMPLETING ANY BOX ABOVE.
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PLEASE SIGN HERE
(To Be Completed By All Tendering Holders) (Complete accompanying Substitute Form W-9 also)
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x: |
,2011 | |||||||
x: |
,2011 | |||||||
(Signature(s) of Owner(s)) | (Date) |
Area Code and Telephone Number: |
If a holder is tendering any Original Notes, this Letter of Transmittal must be signed by the registered holder(s) as the name(s) appear(s) on the certificate(s) for the Original Notes or by any person(s) authorized to become registered holder(s) by endorsements and documents transmitted herewith. If a signature is by a trustee, executor, administrator, guardian, officer or other person acting in a fiduciary or representative capacity, please set forth your full title. See Instruction 3. |
Name(s): |
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(Please Type or Print) |
Title: |
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Capacity: |
Address: |
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(Including Zip Code) | ||
SIGNATURE GUARANTEE | ||
(If Required by Instruction 3) |
Signature Guaranteed by an |
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(Authorized Signature) | ||
(Title) | ||
(Name and Firm) | ||
Dated: , 2011 |
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INSTRUCTIONS
Forming Part of the Terms and Conditions of the Exchange Offer
1. | Delivery of this Letter of Transmittal and Original Notes; Guaranteed Delivery Procedures. |
This Letter of Transmittal is to be completed by holders of Original Notes either if certificates are to be forwarded herewith or if tenders are to be made according to the guaranteed delivery procedures set forth in The Exchange OfferGuaranteed Delivery Procedures section of the Prospectus. Certificates for all physically tendered Original Notes, or Book-Entry Confirmation, as the case may be, as well as a properly completed and duly executed Letter of Transmittal (or facsimile thereof) and any other documents required by this Letter of Transmittal, must be received by the Exchange Agent at the address set forth herein prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Expiration Date, or the tendering holder must comply with the guaranteed delivery procedures set forth below. Original Notes tendered hereby must be in denominations of $1,000 and any integral multiple thereof.
Holders of Original Notes whose certificates for Original Notes are not immediately available or who cannot deliver their certificates and all other required documents to the Exchange Agent prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Expiration Date, or who cannot complete the procedure for book-entry transfer on a timely basis, may tender their Original Notes pursuant to the guaranteed delivery procedures set forth in The Exchange OfferGuaranteed Delivery Procedures section of the Prospectus. Pursuant to such procedures, (i) such tender must be made through an Eligible Institution (as defined below), (ii) prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Expiration Date, the Exchange Agent must receive from such Eligible Institution a properly completed and duly executed Notice of Guaranteed Delivery (by facsimile transmission, mail or hand delivery), substantially in the form provided by the Company, setting forth the name and address of the holder of Original Notes, the certificate number or numbers of such Original Notes, if any, and the principal amount of Original Notes tendered, stating that the tender is being made thereby and guaranteeing that within three New York Stock Exchange trading days after the Expiration Date, this Letter of Transmittal (or facsimile thereof) properly completed and duly executed, with any required signature guarantee, or, in lieu thereof, an agents message from DTC, together with the certificate or certificates representing the Original Notes to be tendered in proper form for transfer, or a Book-Entry Confirmation, as the case may be, and any other documents required by this Letter of Transmittal will be deposited by the Eligible Institution (as defined below) with the Exchange Agent, and (iii) such properly completed and duly executed Letter of Transmittal (or facsimile thereof), with any required signature guarantee, or, in lieu thereof, an agents message from DTC, as well as the certificate or certificates representing all tendered Original Notes in proper form for transfer, or a Book-Entry Confirmation, as the case may be, and all other documents required by this Letter of Transmittal are received by the Exchange Agent within three New York Stock Exchange trading days after the Expiration Date.
The method of delivery of this Letter of Transmittal, the Original Notes and all other required documents is at the election and risk of the tendering holders. Instead of delivery by mail, it is recommended that holders use an overnight or hand delivery service. In all cases, sufficient time should be allowed to assure delivery to the Exchange Agent before the Expiration Date. No Letter of Transmittal or Original Notes should be sent to the Company. Holders may request their respective brokers, dealers, commercial banks, trust companies or nominees to effect the tenders for such holders.
See the section entitled The Exchange Offer in the Prospectus.
2. | Partial Tenders (not applicable to holders of Original Notes who tender by book-entry transfer); Withdrawals. |
If less than all of the Original Notes evidenced by a submitted certificate are to be tendered, the tendering holder(s) should fill in the aggregate principal amount of Original Notes to be tendered in the applicable box or boxes above entitled Description of Original NotesPrincipal Amount of Original Notes Tendered, as the case may be. A newly reissued certificate for the Original Notes submitted but not tendered will be sent to such holder as soon as practicable after the Expiration Date. ALL OF THE ORIGINAL NOTES DELIVERED TO THE EXCHANGE AGENT WILL BE DEEMED TO HAVE BEEN TENDERED UNLESS OTHERWISE CLEARLY INDICATED.
If not yet accepted, a tender pursuant to the Exchange Offer may be withdrawn prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Expiration Date. To be effective with respect to the tender of Original Notes, a Notice of Withdrawal, substantially in the form provided by the Company, must: (i) be received by the Exchange Agent before the Company notifies the Exchange Agent that they have accepted the tender of Original Notes pursuant to the Exchange Offer; (ii) specify the name of the person who tendered the Original Notes to be withdrawn; (iii) contain a description of the Original Notes to be withdrawn, including the certificate numbers shown on the particular certificates evidencing such Original Notes, if applicable, and the principal amount of such Original Notes; and (iv) be signed by the holder in the same manner as the original signature on this Letter of Transmittal (including any required signature guarantee). The Exchange Agent will return the properly withdrawn Original Notes promptly following receipt of the Notice of Withdrawal. If Original Notes have been tendered pursuant to the procedure for book-entry transfer, any Notice of Withdrawal must specify the name and number of the account at the Book-Entry Transfer Facility to be credited with the withdrawn Original Notes or otherwise comply with the Book-Entry Transfer Facilitys procedures. All questions as to the validity of any Notice of
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Withdrawal, including time of receipt, will be determined by the Company, and such determination will be final and binding on all parties.
3. | Signatures on this Letter of Transmittal; Bond Powers and Endorsements; Guarantee of Signatures. |
If this Letter of Transmittal is signed by the registered holder of the Original Notes tendered hereby, the signature must correspond exactly with the name as written on the face of the certificates without alteration, enlargement or any change whatsoever.
If any tendered Original Notes are owned of record by two or more joint owners, all such owners must sign this Letter of Transmittal.
If any tendered Original Notes are registered in different names on several certificates, it will be necessary to complete, sign and submit as many separate copies of this Letter of Transmittal as there are different registrations of certificates.
When this Letter of Transmittal is signed by the registered holder (which term, for the purposes described herein, shall include the Book-Entry Transfer Facility whose name appears on a security listing as the owner of the Original Notes) of the Original Notes specified herein and tendered hereby, no endorsements of certificates or separate bond powers are required. If, however, the Exchange Notes are to be issued to a person other than the registered holder, then endorsements of any certificates transmitted hereby or separate bond powers are required. Signatures on such certificates must be guaranteed by an Eligible Institution (as defined below).
If this Letter of Transmittal is signed by a person other than the registered holder or holders of any Original Notes specified herein, then certificate(s) representing such Original Notes must be endorsed by such registered holder(s) or accompanied by separate written instruments of transfer or endorsed in blank by such registered holder(s) in form satisfactory to the Company and duly executed by the registered holder, in either case signed exactly as such registered holder(s) name or names appear(s) on the Original Notes. If this Letter of Transmittal or any certificates of Original Notes or separate written instruments of transfer or exchange are signed or endorsed by trustees, executors, administrators, guardians, attorneys-in-fact, officers of corporations or others acting in a fiduciary or representative capacity, such persons should so indicate when signing, and unless waived by the Company, evidence satisfactory to the Company of their authority to so act must be submitted with this Letter of Transmittal.
Signature(s) on a Letter of Transmittal or a Notice of Withdrawal, as the case may be, must be guaranteed by an Eligible Institution unless the Original Notes tendered pursuant thereto are tendered (i) by a registered holder who has not completed the box entitled Special Issuance Instructions or Special Delivery Instructions on this Letter of Transmittal or (ii) for the account of an Eligible Institution. In the event that signatures on a Letter of Transmittal or a Notice of Withdrawal, as the case may be, are required to be guaranteed, such guarantee must be by a member firm of a registered national securities exchange or of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, a commercial bank or trust company having an office or correspondent in the United States or an eligible guarantor institution within the meaning of Rule 17Ad-15 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (an Eligible Institution).
4. | Special Issuance and Delivery Instructions. |
Tendering holders of Original Notes should indicate in the applicable box the name and address to which Exchange Notes issued pursuant to the Exchange Offer and/or Original Notes not exchanged are to be issued or sent, if different from the name or address of the person signing this Letter of Transmittal. In the case of issuance in a different name, the tax identification number or social security number of the person so named must also be indicated. Holders tendering Original Notes by book-entry transfer may request that Original Notes not exchanged be credited to such account maintained at the Book-Entry Transfer Facility as such holder may designate hereon.
If no such instructions are given, the Exchange Notes (and any Original Notes not tendered or not accepted) will be issued in the name of and sent to the name or address of the person signing this Letter of Transmittal or deposited into such persons account at the Book-Entry Transfer Facility.
5. | Tax Identification Number. |
An exchange of Original Notes for Exchange Notes will not be treated as a taxable exchange or other taxable event for U.S. Federal income tax purposes. In particular, no backup withholding or information reporting is required in connection with such an exchange. U.S. Federal income tax law generally requires, however, that payments of principal and interest, including any special interest, on a note to a holder be subject to backup withholding unless such holder provides the Company (as payor) or other payor with such holders correct Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) on Substitute Form W-9 below or otherwise establishes a basis for exemption. If such holder is an individual, the TIN is his or her social security number. If the payor is not provided with the current TIN or an adequate basis for an exemption, such tendering holder may be subject to a $50 penalty imposed by the Internal Revenue Service. In addition, such holder may be subject to backup withholding (currently at a rate of 28$) on all reportable payments of principal and interest, including any special interest.
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Certain holders (generally including, among others, all corporations and certain foreign individuals) are not subject to these backup withholding and reporting requirements. See the enclosed Guidelines for Certification of Taxpayer Identification Number on Substitute Form W-9 (the W-9 Guidelines) for additional instructions.
To prevent backup withholding on reportable payments of principal and interest, including any special interest, by the Company (when acting as payor), each tendering holder of Original Notes must provide its correct TIN by completing the Substitute Form W-9 set forth below, certifying that the TIN provided is correct (or that such holder is awaiting a TIN) and that (i) the holder is exempt from backup withholding, (ii) the holder has not been notified by the Internal Revenue Service that such holder is subject to a backup withholding as a result of a failure to report all interest or dividends or (iii) the Internal Revenue Service has notified the holder that such holder is no longer subject to backup withholding. If the tendering holder of Original Notes is a nonresident alien or foreign entity not subject to backup withholding, such holder must give the Company a completed Form W-8BEN Certificate of Foreign Status of Beneficial Owner for United States Tax Withholding, or other appropriate Form W-8. These forms may be obtained from the Exchange Agent. If the Original Notes are in more than one name or are not in the name of the actual owner, such holder should consult the W-9 Guidelines for information on which TIN to report. If such holder does not have a TIN, such holder should consult the W-9 Guidelines for instructions on applying for a TIN, check the box in Part 2 of the Substitute Form W-9 and write applied for in lieu of its TIN. Note that checking this box and writing applied for on the form means that such holder has already applied for a TIN or that such holder intends to apply for one in the near future. If a holder checks the box in Part 2 of the Substitute Form W-9 and writes applied for on that form, backup withholding at a rate of currently 28% will nevertheless apply to all reportable payments made to such holder. If such a holder furnishes its TIN to the Company within 60 calendar days, however, any amounts so withheld shall be refunded to such holder.
Backup withholding is not an additional Federal income tax. Rather, the Federal income tax liability of persons subject to backup withholding will be reduced by the amount of tax withheld. If withholding results in overpayment of taxes, a refund may be obtained from the Internal Revenue Service.
6. | Transfer Taxes. |
Holders who tender their Original Notes for exchange will not be obligated to pay any transfer taxes in connection therewith. If, however, Exchange Notes are to be delivered to, or are to be issued in the name of, any person other than the registered holder of the Original Notes tendered hereby, or if tendered Original Notes are registered in the name of any person other than the person signing this Letter of Transmittal, or if a transfer tax is imposed for any reason other than the exchange of Original Notes in connection with the Exchange Offer, the amount of any such transfer taxes (whether imposed on the registered holder or any other persons) will be payable by the tendering holder. If satisfactory evidence of payment of such taxes or exemption therefrom is not submitted herewith, the amount of such transfer taxes will be billed directly to such tendering holder.
Except as provided in this Instruction 6, it will not be necessary for transfer tax stamps to be affixed to the Original Notes specified in this Letter of Transmittal.
7. | Waiver of Conditions. |
The Company reserves the right to waive, in whole or in part, satisfaction of any or all conditions to the Exchange Offer enumerated in the Prospectus.
8. | No Conditional Tenders. |
No alternative, conditional, irregular or contingent tenders will be accepted. All tendering holders of Original Notes, by execution of this Letter of Transmittal, shall waive any right to receive notice of the acceptance of their Original Notes for exchange.
Neither the Company, the Exchange Agent nor any other person is obligated to give notice of any defect or irregularity with respect to any tender of Original Notes nor shall any of them incur any liability for failure to give any such notice.
9. | Mutilated, Lost, Stolen or Destroyed Original Notes. |
Any holder whose Original Notes have been mutilated, lost, stolen or destroyed should promptly contact the Exchange Agent at the address indicated above for further instructions.
10. | Requests for Assistance or Additional Copies. |
Questions relating to the procedure for tendering, as well as requests for additional copies of the Prospectus and this Letter of Transmittal, may be directed to the Exchange Agent, at the address and telephone number indicated above.
11
TO BE COMPLETED BY ALL TENDERING HOLDERS
(See Instruction 5)
SUBSTITUTE
Form W-9 Department of the
Payors Request |
Part 1PLEASE PROVIDE YOUR TIN IN THE BOX AT RIGHT AND CERTIFY BY SIGNING AND DATING BELOW. | TIN: |
Social security number OR
Employer identification number
| |||||
Part 2TIN applied for ¨ CERTIFICATIONUNDER PENALTIES OF PERJURY, I CERTIFY THAT:
(1) The number shown on this form is my correct Taxpayer Identification Number (or I am waiting for a number to be issued to me).
(2) I am not subject to backup withholding because: (a) I am exempt from backup withholding, or (b) I have not been notified by the Internal Revenue Service (the IRS) that I am subject to backup withholding as a result of a failure to report all interest or dividends, or (c) the IRS has notified me that I am no longer subject to backup withholding, and
(3) I am a U.S. person (including a U.S. resident alien).
| ||||||||
Signature Date
| ||||||||
You must cross out item (2) of the above certification if you have been notified by the IRS that you are subject to backup withholding because of under reporting of interest or dividends on your tax returns and you have not been notified by the IRS that you are no longer subject to backup withholding.
|
YOU MUST COMPLETE THE
FOLLOWING CERTIFICATE IF
YOU CHECKED THE BOX
IN PART 2 OF SUBSTITUTE FORM W-9
CERTIFICATE OF AWAITING TAXPAYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
I certify under penalties of perjury that a taxpayer identification number has not been issued to me, and either (1) I have mailed or delivered an application to receive a taxpayer identification number to the appropriate Internal Revenue Service Center or Social Security Administration office or (2) I intend to mail or deliver an application in the near future. I understand that if I do not provide a taxpayer identification number at the time of payment, 28% of all reportable payments made to me thereafter will be withheld until I provide a number.
Signature Date
Name (Please Print)
|
12
GUIDELINES FOR CERTIFICATION OF
TAXPAYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER ON SUBSTITUTE FORM W-9
Guidelines for Determining the Proper Identification Number for the Payee (You) to Give the PayerSocial Security numbers have nine digits separated by two hyphens: i.e., 000-00-0000. Employer identification numbers have nine digits separated by only one hyphen: i.e., 00-0000000. The table below will help determine the number to give the payer. All Section references are to the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. IRS is the Internal Revenue Service.
For this type of account: |
Give the name and social security number of |
For this type of account: |
Give the name and employer identification number of | |||||||||
1. | Individual | The individual | 6. | Sole proprietorship or single-member LLC | The owner(3) | |||||||
2. | Two or more individuals (joint account) | The actual owner of the account or, if combined funds, the first individual on the account(1) | 7. | A valid trust, estate, or pension trust | The legal entity(4) | |||||||
2. | Custodian account of a minor (Uniform Gift to Minors Act) | The minor(2) | 8. | Corporation or LLC electing corporate status on Form 8832 | The corporation or LLC | |||||||
4. | a. The usual revocable savings trust (grantor is also trustee) |
The grantortrustee(1) | 9. | Association, club, religious, charitable, educational, or other tax-exempt organization | The organization | |||||||
b. So-called trust account that is not a legal or valid trust under state law |
The actual owner(1) | 10. |
Partnership or multi-member LLC | The partnership | ||||||||
5. | Sole proprietorship or single-owner LLC | The owner(3) | 11. | A broker or registered nominee | The broker or nominee | |||||||
12. |
Account with the Department of Agriculture in the name of a public entity (such as a state or local government, school district, or prison) that receives agricultural program payments
|
The public entity |
(1) | List first and circle the name of the person whose number you furnish. If only one person on a joint account has a Social Security number, that persons number must be furnished. |
(2) | Circle the minors name and furnish the minors Social Security number. |
(3) | You must show your individual name, but you may also enter your business or doing business as name. You may use either your Social Security number or your employer identification number (if you have one). |
(4) | List first and circle the name of the legal trust, estate, or pension trust. (Do not furnish the taxpayer identification number of the personal representative or trustee unless the legal entity itself is not designated in the account title.) |
Note: If no name is circled when there is more than one name listed, the number will be considered to be that of the first name listed.
13
GUIDELINES FOR CERTIFICATION OF
TAXPAYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER ON SUBSTITUTE FORM W-9
14
Exhibit 99.2
Notice of Guaranteed Delivery
VALASSIS COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
Offer to Exchange
Registered 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021
For a Like Principal Amount of
Outstanding, Unregistered 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021
Pursuant to the Prospectus Dated , 2011
This Notice of Guaranteed Delivery, or one substantially equivalent to this form, must be used to tender Original Notes (as defined below) pursuant to the Exchange Offer (as defined below) described in the prospectus dated , 2011 (as the same may be amended or supplemented from time to time, the Prospectus) of Valassis Communications, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the Company), if (i) certificates for any of the outstanding 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021 (the Original Notes) of the Company are not immediately available, (ii) time will not permit the Original Notes, the letter of transmittal and all other required documents to be delivered to Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (the Exchange Agent) prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on , 2011 or such later date and time to which the exchange offer may be extended (the Expiration Date), or (iii) the procedures for delivery by book-entry transfer cannot be completed on a timely basis. This Notice of Guaranteed Delivery, or one substantially equivalent to this form, must be delivered by hand or sent by facsimile transmission or mail to the Exchange Agent, and must be received by the Exchange Agent prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Expiration Date. See The Exchange OfferProcedures for Tendering in the Prospectus. Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the same meanings given them in the Prospectus.
The Exchange Agent for the Exchange Offer is:
Wells Fargo Bank, National Association
By Registered Mail or Certified Mail: |
By Regular Mail or Overnight Courier: |
By Hand: | ||
Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. MAC - N9303-121 Corporate Trust Operations P.O. Box 1517 Minneapolis, MN 55480-1517 |
Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. MAC - N9303-121 Corporate Trust Operations Sixth Street & Marquette Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55479 |
Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Northstar East Building - 12th floor Corporate Trust Services 608 Second Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55402 |
By Facsimile (eligible institutions only): (612) 667-6282
Telephone Inquiries: (800) 344-5128
DELIVERY OF THIS NOTICE OF GUARANTEED DELIVERY TO AN ADDRESS OTHER THAN AS SET FORTH ABOVE OR TRANSMISSION OF THIS NOTICE OF GUARANTEED DELIVERY VIA FACSIMILE TO A NUMBER OTHER THAN AS SET FORTH ABOVE DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A VALID DELIVERY. THE METHOD OF DELIVERY OF ALL DOCUMENTS, INCLUDING CERTIFICATES, IS AT THE RISK OF THE HOLDER. IF DELIVERY IS BY MAIL, REGISTERED MAIL WITH RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED, PROPERLY INSURED, IS RECOMMENDED. YOU SHOULD READ THE INSTRUCTIONS ACCOMPANYING THE LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL CAREFULLY BEFORE YOU COMPLETE THIS NOTICE OF GUARANTEED DELIVERY.
This Notice of Guaranteed Delivery is not to be used to guarantee signatures. If a signature on a letter of transmittal is required to be guaranteed by an Eligible Institution (as defined thereon) under the instructions thereto, such signature guarantee must appear in the applicable space provided in the signature box on the letter of transmittal.
Ladies and Gentlemen:
The undersigned acknowledges receipt of the Prospectus and the related letter of transmittal which describe the Companys offer (the Exchange Offer) to exchange $1,000 in principal amount of new 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021 (the Exchange Notes) for each $1,000 in principal amount of Original Notes.
The undersigned hereby tenders to the Company, upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Prospectus and the related letter of transmittal, the aggregate principal amount of Original Notes indicated below pursuant to the guaranteed delivery procedures set forth in the Prospectus under the caption The Exchange OfferGuaranteed Delivery Procedures.
The undersigned understands that (i) no withdrawal of a tender of any of the Original Notes may be made on or after 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Expiration Date, and (ii) for a withdrawal of a tender of any of the Original Notes to be effective, a written notice of withdrawal, substantially in the form provided by the Company, that complies with the requirements of the Exchange Offer must be timely received by the Exchange Agent at its address specified on the cover of this Notice of Guaranteed Delivery prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Expiration Date.
The undersigned also understands that the exchange of Exchange Notes for Original Notes pursuant to the Exchange Offer will be made only after timely receipt by the Exchange Agent of (i) such Original Notes (or book-entry confirmation of the transfer of such Original Notes into the Exchange Agents account at The Depository Trust Company (DTC)) and (ii) a letter of transmittal (or facsimile thereof) with respect to such Original Notes, properly completed and duly executed, with any required signature guarantees, this Notice of Guaranteed Delivery and any other documents required by the letter of transmittal or, in lieu thereof, a message from DTC stating that the tendering holder has expressly acknowledged receipt of, and agreement to be bound by and held accountable under, the letter of transmittal.
All authority conferred or agreed to be conferred by this Notice of Guaranteed Delivery shall not be affected by, and shall survive, the death or incapacity of the undersigned, and every obligation of the undersigned under this Notice of Guaranteed Delivery shall be binding on the heirs, executors, administrators, trustees in bankruptcy, personal and legal representatives, successors and assigns of the undersigned.
- 2 -
Name(s) of Registered Holder(s): |
| |
(Please Print or Type) |
Signature(s): |
| |
Address(es): |
|
Area Code(s) and Telephone Number(s): |
|
If the Original Notes will be delivered by book-entry transfer | ||
at DTC, insert Depository Account Number: |
|
Date: |
|
Certificate Number(s)* | Principal Amount of Original Notes Tendered** | |
* Need not be completed if the Original Notes being tendered are in book-entry form. ** Must be in integral multiples of $1,000 principal amount. |
This Notice of Guaranteed Delivery must be signed by the registered holder(s) of Original Notes tendered hereby exactly as its (their) name(s) appear on the certificate(s) for such Original Notes or on a security position listing as the owner(s) of Original Notes, or by person(s) authorized to become registered holder(s) by endorsements and documents transmitted with this Notice of Guaranteed Delivery. If the signature is by a trustee, executor, administrator, guardian, attorney-in-fact, officer or other person acting in a fiduciary or representative capacity, you must provide the following information and, unless waived by the Company, submit with the letter of transmittal evidence satisfactory to the Company of such persons authority to act:
Name(s): |
|
Title(s): |
|
Signature(s): |
|
Address(es): |
|
DO NOT SEND ORIGINAL NOTES WITH THIS FORM. ORIGINAL NOTES SHOULD BE SENT TO THE EXCHANGE AGENT TOGETHER WITH A PROPERLY COMPLETED AND DULY EXECUTED LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL.
- 3 -
GUARANTEE OF DELIVERY
(NOT TO BE USED FOR SIGNATURE GUARANTEE)
The undersigned, a member firm of a registered national securities exchange or of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, a commercial bank or trust company having an office or a correspondent in the United States or an Eligible Guarantor Institution within the meaning of Rule 17Ad-I5 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act), and which is, in each case, a member of a recognized signature guarantee program (i.e., Securities Transfer Agents Medallion Program, Stock Exchange Medallion Program or New York Stock Exchange Medallion Signature Program), hereby (1) represents that each holder of Original Notes on whose behalf this tender is being made own(s) the Original Notes covered hereby within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act, (2) represents that such tender of Original Notes complies with Rule 14e-4 of the Exchange Act and (3) guarantees that the undersigned will deliver to the Exchange Agent the certificates representing the Original Notes being tendered hereby for exchange pursuant to the Exchange Offer in proper form for transfer (or a confirmation of book-entry transfer of such Original Notes into the Exchange Agents account at the book-entry transfer facility of DTC) with delivery of a properly completed and duly executed letter of transmittal (or facsimile thereof), with any required signature guarantees, or in lieu of a letter of transmittal a message from DTC stating that the tendering holder has expressly acknowledged receipt of, and agreement to be bound by and held accountable under, the letter of transmittal, and any other required documents, all within three New York Stock Exchange trading days after the Expiration Date of the Exchange Offer.
Name of Firm: |
|
| ||||
(Authorized Signature) |
Address: |
|
Name: |
|
|
Title: |
| ||||
(Zip Code) |
Telephone Number: |
|
Date: |
|
The institution that completes the notice of guaranteed delivery must (i) deliver or otherwise transmit the same to the Exchange Agent at its address set forth above by hand, facsimile or mail, prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Expiration Date, and (ii) deliver the certificates representing any Original Notes (or a confirmation of book-entry transfer of such original notes into the Exchange Agents account at DTC), together with a properly completed and duly executed letter of transmittal (or facsimile thereof) or a message from DTC stating that the tendering holder has expressly acknowledged receipt of, and agreement to be bound by and held accountable under, the letter of transmittal in lieu thereof), with any required signature guarantees and any other documents required by the letter of transmittal to the Exchange Agent within the time period shown herein. Failure to do so could result in a financial loss to such institution.
- 4 -
Exhibit 99.3
Notice of Withdrawal
VALASSIS COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
Offer to Exchange
Registered 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021
For a Like Principal Amount of
Outstanding 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021
Pursuant to the Prospectus Dated , 2011
This Notice of Withdrawal, or one substantially equivalent to this form, must be used to withdraw tenders of any of the original notes (as defined below) pursuant to the Companys (as defined below) offer (the exchange offer) to exchange $1,000 principal amount of its 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021, which have been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the exchange notes), for each $1,000 in principal amount of the Companys outstanding 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021, which have certain transfer restrictions (the original notes), described in the prospectus, dated , 2011 (as the same may be amended or supplemented from time to time, the Prospectus), of Valassis Communications, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the Company). Except as otherwise provided in the Prospectus, holders of any of the original notes may withdraw their tenders of original notes at any time prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on , 2011 or such later date and time to which the exchange offer may be extended (the Expiration Date). To withdraw a tender, a holder must deliver this Notice of Withdrawal, or one substantially equivalent to this form, by hand or by facsimile transmission or mail to Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (the Exchange Agent) prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Expiration Date. See The Exchange OfferWithdrawal of Tenders in the Prospectus. Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the same meaning given to them in the Prospectus.
The Exchange Agent for the Exchange Offer is:
Wells Fargo Bank, National Association
By Registered Mail or Certified Mail: |
By Regular Mail or Overnight Courier: |
By Hand: | ||
Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. MAC - N9303-121 Corporate Trust Operations P.O. Box 1517 Minneapolis, MN 55480-1517 |
Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. MAC - N9303-121 Corporate Trust Operations Sixth Street & Marquette Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55479 |
Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Northstar East Building - 12th floor Corporate Trust Services 608 Second Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55402 |
By Facsimile (eligible institutions only): (612) 667-6282
Telephone Inquiries: (800) 344-5128
DELIVERY OF THIS NOTICE OF WITHDRAWAL TO AN ADDRESS OTHER THAN AS SET FORTH ABOVE OR TRANSMISSION OF THIS NOTICE OF WITHDRAWAL VIA FACSIMILE TO A NUMBER OTHER THAN AS SET FORTH ABOVE DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A VALID WITHDRAWAL. THE METHOD OF DELIVERY OF ALL DOCUMENTS, INCLUDING CERTIFICATES, IS AT THE RISK OF THE HOLDER. IF DELIVERY IS BY REGULAR MAIL, REGISTERED MAIL WITH RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED, PROPERLY INSURED, IS RECOMMENDED. YOU SHOULD READ THE INSTRUCTIONS ACCOMPANYING THE LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL CAREFULLY BEFORE YOU COMPLETE THIS NOTICE OF WITHDRAWAL.
Ladies and Gentlemen:
The undersigned hereby withdraws, upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Prospectus and the related letter of transmittal, the aggregate principal amount of original notes indicated below pursuant to the procedures for withdrawal set forth in the Prospectus under the caption The Exchange OfferWithdrawal of Tenders.
The undersigned understands that no withdrawal of a tender of original notes may be made on or after 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Expiration Date. The undersigned understands that for a withdrawal of a tender of original notes to be effective, a written notice of withdrawal that complies with the requirements of the exchange offer must be timely received by the Exchange Agent at its address specified on the cover of this Notice of Withdrawal prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Expiration Date.
Name of person who deposited | ||
the original notes to be | ||
withdrawn: | ||
Name in which the original notes to be withdrawn | ||
are to be registered, if different from |
depositor: | ||
(Please Print or Type) |
Signature(s): |
Address(es): | ||
Area Code(s) and Telephone | ||
Number(s): | ||
If original notes were delivered by book-entry transfer | ||
at DTC, insert Depository Account |
Number: |
Date: | ||
Total principal amount of | ||
the original notes to be |
withdrawn: |
Certificate Number(s)*
|
Principal Amount of Original Senior Notes Withdrawn
| |
* | Need not be completed if the original notes being withdrawn are in book-entry form. |
This Notice of Withdrawal must be signed by the depositor(s) of original notes in the same manner as the original signature on the letter of transmittal by which such original notes were tendered, with any required signature guarantees, or be accompanied by documents of transfer sufficient to have the trustee register the transfer of such original notes into the name of the person withdrawing the tender. If signature is by a trustee, executor, administrator, guardian, attorney-in-fact, officer or other person acting in a fiduciary or representative capacity, such person must provide the following information:
Name(s): |
Title(s): |
Signature(s): |
Address(es): |
Exhibit 99.4
VALASSIS COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
Offer to Exchange
Registered 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021
For a Like Principal Amount of
Outstanding, Unregistered 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021
Pursuant to the Prospectus Dated , 2011
To: Brokers, Dealers, Commercial Banks, Trust Companies and other Nominees:
Valassis Communications, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the Company), hereby offers to exchange (the exchange offer), upon and subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the enclosed prospectus, dated , 2011 (the Prospectus), and letter of transmittal (the Letter of Transmittal), up to $260,000,000 aggregate principal amount of its 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021, which have been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the exchange notes), for its outstanding, unregistered 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021, which have certain transfer restrictions (the original notes). The exchange notes will be guaranteed by certain subsidiaries of the Company as set forth in the Prospectus. The exchange offer is intended to satisfy certain obligations of the Company contained in the Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of January 28, 2011, between the Company, the subsidiary guarantors party thereto and the initial purchasers referred to therein.
We are requesting that you contact your clients for whom you hold original notes regarding the exchange offer. For your information and for forwarding to your clients for whom you hold original notes registered in your name or in the name of your nominee, or who hold original notes registered in their own names, we are enclosing the following documents:
1. The Prospectus;
2. The Letter of Transmittal for your use, for the use of your clients who have either arranged to have the original notes registered in their name or obtained a properly completed bond power, and for the information of your other clients, including a Substitute Form W-9 and Guidelines for Certification of Taxpayer Identification Number on Substitute Form W-9 (providing information relating to U.S. federal income tax backup withholding);
3. A Notice of Guaranteed Delivery to be used to accept the exchange offer if certificates for original notes are not immediately available or time will not permit all required documents to reach Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (the Exchange Agent) prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Expiration Date (as defined below) or if the procedure for book-entry transfer cannot be completed on a timely basis;
4. A Notice of Withdrawal to be used to withdraw tenders of original notes; and
5. A form of letter which may be sent to your clients for whose accounts you hold original notes registered in your name or the name of your nominee, with space provided for obtaining such clients instructions with regard to the exchange offer.
Your prompt action is requested. The exchange offer will expire at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on , 2011 (the Expiration Date), unless extended by the Company. Any original notes tendered pursuant to the exchange offer may be withdrawn at any time before 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Expiration Date.
To participate in the exchange offer, a duly executed and properly completed Letter of Transmittal (or facsimile thereof or a message from The Depository Trust Company stating that the tendering holder has expressly acknowledged receipt of, and agrees to be bound by and held accountable under, the Letter of Transmittal), with any required signature guarantees and any other required documents, together with certificates representing the original notes (or confirmation of a book-entry transfer of such original notes into the account of the Exchange Agent at The Depository Trust Company) must be received by the Exchange Agent, all in accordance with the instructions set forth in the Letter of Transmittal and the Prospectus.
If holders of original notes wish to tender, but it is impracticable for them to forward their certificates for original notes prior to the expiration of the exchange offer or to comply with the book-entry transfer procedures on a timely basis, a tender may be effected by following the guaranteed delivery procedures described in the Prospectus under The Exchange OfferGuaranteed Delivery Procedures.
Any inquiries you may have with respect to the exchange offer or requests for additional copies of the enclosed materials should be directed to the Exchange Agent, at its address and telephone number set forth on the front of the Letter of Transmittal.
Very truly yours,
Valassis Communications, Inc.
NOTHING HEREIN OR IN THE ENCLOSED DOCUMENTS SHALL CONSTITUTE YOU OR ANY OTHER PERSON AS AN AGENT OF THE COMPANY OR THE EXCHANGE AGENT, OR AUTHORIZE YOU OR ANY OTHER PERSON TO USE ANY DOCUMENT OR MAKE ANY STATEMENTS ON BEHALF OF EITHER OF THEM WITH RESPECT TO THE EXCHANGE OFFER, EXCEPT FOR STATEMENTS EXPRESSLY MADE IN THE PROSPECTUS OR THE LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL.
Exhibit 99.5
VALASSIS COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
Offer to Exchange
Registered 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021
For a Like Principal Amount of
Outstanding, Unregistered 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021
Pursuant to the Prospectus Dated , 2011
To Our Clients:
Enclosed for your consideration are a prospectus, dated , 2011 (the Prospectus), and a letter of transmittal (the Letter of Transmittal) relating to the offer (the exchange offer) of Valassis Communications, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the Company), to exchange up to $260,000,000 aggregate principal amount of its 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021, which have been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the exchange notes), for its outstanding, unregistered 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021, which have certain transfer restrictions (the original notes), upon the terms and subject to the conditions described in the Prospectus and the related Letter of Transmittal. The exchange notes will be guaranteed by certain subsidiaries of the Company (the Guarantors) as set forth in the Prospectus. The exchange offer is intended to satisfy certain obligations of the Company contained in the Registration Rights Agreements, dated as of January 28, 2011, between the Company, the subsidiary guarantors party thereto and the initial purchasers referred to therein.
This material is being forwarded to you as the beneficial owner of the original notes held by us for your account but not registered in your name. A tender of such original notes may only be made by us as the holder of record and pursuant to your instructions unless you obtain a properly completed bond power from us or arrange to have the original notes registered in your name.
Accordingly, we request instructions as to whether you wish us to tender on your behalf the original notes held by us for your account, pursuant to the terms and conditions set forth in the enclosed Prospectus and Letter of Transmittal.
Please forward your instructions to us as promptly as possible in order to permit us to tender the original notes on your behalf in accordance with the provisions of the exchange offer. The exchange offer will expire at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on , 2011 (the Expiration Date), unless extended by the Company. Any original notes tendered pursuant to the exchange offer may be withdrawn, subject to the procedures described in the Prospectus, any time before 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Expiration Date.
Your attention is directed to the following:
1. | The exchange offer is for any and all of the original notes. |
2. | The exchange offer is subject to certain conditions set forth in the Prospectus in the section captioned The Exchange OfferConditions to the Exchange Offer. |
3. | The exchange offer expires at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the Expiration Date, unless extended by the Company. |
If you wish to have us tender your original notes, please so instruct us by completing, executing and returning to us the instruction form on the back of this letter. We urge you to read the Prospectus and Letter of Transmittal carefully before instructing us as to whether or not to tender your original notes.
The enclosed Letter of Transmittal is furnished to you for information only and may not be used by you to tender original notes held by us unless you obtain a properly completed bond power from us or arrange to have the original notes registered in your name.
INSTRUCTIONS WITH RESPECT TO THE EXCHANGE OFFER
The undersigned acknowledge(s) receipt of your letter and the enclosed materials referred to therein relating to the exchange offer made by the Company with respect to the original notes.
This will instruct you to tender the principal amount of the original notes indicated below held by you for the account of the undersigned upon and subject to terms and conditions set forth in the Prospectus and the related Letter of Transmittal.
Please tender the original notes held by you for the account of the undersigned as indicated below:
Aggregate Principal Amount of Original Notes
6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2021 of Valassis Communications, Inc. |
| |
(Must be in Integral Multiples of $1,000) |
¨ | Please do not tender any original notes held by you |
for the account of the undersigned
If the undersigned instructs you to tender the original notes held by you for the account of the undersigned, it is understood that you are authorized (a) to make, on behalf of the undersigned (and the undersigned, by its signature below, hereby makes to you), the representations and warranties contained in the Letter of Transmittal that are to be made with respect to the undersigned as a beneficial owner of the original notes, including but not limited to the representations that the undersigned (i) is not an affiliate, as defined in Rule 405 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act), of the Company or the Guarantors, (ii) is not engaged in, and does not intend to engage in, and has no arrangement or understanding with any person or entity to participate in, a distribution of the exchange notes, (iii) is acquiring the exchange notes in the ordinary course of its business, (iv) is not a broker-dealer tendering original notes acquired for its own account directly from the Company, and (v) is not acting on behalf of any person or entity who could not truthfully make the foregoing representations. If a holder of the original notes is an affiliate of the Company or the Guarantors, is not acquiring the exchange notes in the ordinary course of its business, is engaged in or intends to engage in a distribution of the exchange notes to be acquired pursuant to the exchange offer or is a broker-dealer who acquired the original notes for its own account directly from the Company, such holder may not rely on the applicable interpretations of the staff of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission relating to exemptions from the registration and prospectus delivery requirements of the Securities Act and must comply with such requirements in connection with any secondary resale transaction.
| ||
Dated: , 2011 |
| |
(Signature(s)) | ||
| ||
(Please Print Name(s) Here) | ||
| ||
(Address(es)) | ||
| ||
(Area Code(s) and Telephone Number(s)) | ||
| ||
(Tax Identification or Social Security Number(s)) |
None of the original notes held by us for your account will be tendered unless we receive written instructions from you to do so. Unless a specific contrary instruction is given in the space provided, your signature(s) hereon shall constitute an instruction to us to tender all the original notes held by us for your account.
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