pre14a
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C.
SCHEDULE 14A
Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Filed by
the Registrant
þ
Filed by a party other than the Registrant o
Check the appropriate box:
þ Preliminary Proxy Statement
o Confidential, for Use of the
Commission Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2))
o Definitive Proxy Statement
o Definitive Additional Materials
o Soliciting Material Pursuant to §240.14a-12
FOOTHILLS RESOURCES, INC.
(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)
(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)
Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):
þ
No Fee Required.
o Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1) and 0-11.
|
1) |
|
Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
2) |
|
Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
3) |
|
Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (set forth
the amount on which the filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4) |
|
Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
5) |
|
Total fee paid: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
o |
|
Fee paid previously with preliminary materials. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
o |
|
Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange Act Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing
for which the offsetting fee was paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement number, or the Form
or Schedule and the date of its filing.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1) |
|
Amount Previously Paid: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
2) |
|
Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.: |
|
|
|
|
|
FOOTHILLS RESOURCES, INC.
4540 CALIFORNIA AVENUE, SUITE 550
BAKERSFIELD, CALIFORNIA 93309
April 23, 2008
Dear Stockholder:
Our 2008 Annual Meeting of Stockholders will be held on Tuesday, May 20, 2008 at the Four
Points by Sheraton Hotel, 5101 California Avenue, Bakersfield, California. Details regarding the
annual meeting and the business to be conducted are more fully described in the accompanying Notice
of 2008 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and Proxy Statement.
Your vote is important. Whether or not you plan to attend the meeting, I urge you to vote
your shares as soon as possible. Instructions on the proxy card will tell you how to cast your
vote. The accompanying proxy statement provides you with detailed information about Foothill
Resources, Inc. and the matters to be voted on at the annual meeting. Please read it carefully.
Sincerely,
Dennis B. Tower
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FOOTHILLS RESOURCES, INC.
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
|
|
|
TIME
|
|
9:00 a.m. Pacific Daylight Time on Tuesday, May
20, 2008 |
|
|
|
PLACE
|
|
Four Points by Sheraton Hotel |
|
|
5101 California Avenue |
|
|
Bakersfield, California |
|
|
|
ITEMS OF BUSINESS
|
|
(1) To approve the amended
and restated articles of
incorporation of the
Company to increase the
maximum number of
members of the Companys
board of directors,
eliminate certain
provisions of our
articles, modernize the
provisions on directors
and officers liability
and indemnification, and
incorporate other
substantive and
stylistic revisions. |
|
|
|
|
|
(2) To approve the amended and
restated bylaws of the Company to
increase the functionality of the
Board by clarifying its role in
the governance of the Company,
modernize the Bylaws to accord
with changes in Nevada law,
eliminate ambiguity in the
Companys Bylaws, and incorporate
other substantive and stylistic
revisions. |
|
|
|
|
|
(3) To elect seven members of the
Board of Directors. |
|
|
|
|
|
(4) To ratify the appointment of
Brown Armstrong Paulden McCown
Starbuck Thornburgh & Keeter
Accountancy Corporation as the
Companys registered independent
public accounting firm for the
fiscal year ending December 31,
2008. |
|
|
|
|
|
(5) To transact any other business
as may properly come before the
Annual Meeting and any
adjournment or postponement. |
|
|
|
RECORD DATE
|
|
You can vote if, at the close of business on April 18, 2008, you
were a stockholder of the Company. |
|
|
|
PROXY VOTING
|
|
All stockholders are cordially invited to attend the Annual
Meeting in person. However, to ensure your representation at the Annual Meeting, you are urged to vote promptly by signing and
returning the enclosed proxy card. Alternatively, you
may elect to vote by Internet or by phone by following the instructions set forth in the enclosed proxy. |
|
|
|
April 23, 2008 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
W. Kirk Bosché |
|
|
Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and |
|
|
Secretary |
FOOTHILLS RESOURCES, INC.
4540 California Avenue, Suite 550
Bakersfield, California 93309
PROXY STATEMENT
These proxy materials are delivered in connection with the solicitation by the Board of Directors
(referred to as the Board) of Foothills Resources, Inc., a Nevada corporation (referred to as
the Company, we or us), of proxies to be voted at our 2008 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and
at any adjournments or postponements.
You are invited to attend our Annual Meeting of Stockholders on Tuesday, May 20, 2008, beginning at
9:00 a.m. Pacific Daylight Time. The meeting will be held at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel,
5101 California Avenue, Bakersfield, California.
This Proxy Statement and form of proxy are being mailed to stockholders commencing on or about
April 23, 2008. Our 2007 Annual Report, which is not part of the proxy solicitation materials, is
enclosed.
Stockholders Entitled to Vote. Holders of our common stock at the close of business on April 18,
2008, are entitled to receive this notice and to vote their shares at the Annual Meeting. Common
stock is the only outstanding class of securities entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting. As of
March 31, 2008, there were 60,572,442 shares of our common stock outstanding. A list of
stockholders entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting will be available at the Annual Meeting and at
our principal executive offices, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., for 10 days prior to
the Annual Meeting.
Proxies. Your vote is important. If your shares are registered in your name, you are a
stockholder of record. If your shares are in the name of your broker or bank, your shares are held
in street name. We encourage you to vote by proxy so that your shares will be represented and
voted at the meeting even if you cannot attend. In addition to voting in person at the Annual
Meeting, stockholders of record may vote by proxy by calling a toll-free phone number, by using the
Internet or by mailing their signed proxy cards. The telephone and Internet voting procedures are
designed to authenticate stockholders identify, to allow stockholders to give their voting
instructions and to confirm that stockholders instructions have been recorded properly. Specific
instructions for stockholders of record who wish to use the telephone or Internet voting procedures
are set forth on the enclosed proxy card. Voting by proxy will not limit your right to vote at the
Annual Meeting if you later decide to attend in person. All street name stockholders also can vote
by proxy via the Internet. If your shares are held in street name, you must obtain a
proxy, executed in your favor, from the holder of record in order to be able to vote at the
meeting. If you are a stockholder of record, you may revoke your proxy at any time before the
meeting either by filing with our Secretary, at our principal executive offices, a written notice
of revocation or a duly executed proxy bearing a later date, or by attending the Annual Meeting and
expressing a desire to vote your shares in person. All shares entitled to vote and represented by
properly executed proxies received prior to the Annual Meeting, and not revoked, will be voted at
the Annual Meeting in accordance with the instructions indicated on those proxies. If no
instructions are indicated on a properly executed proxy, the shares represented by that proxy will
be voted as recommended by the Board.
Internet Voting. A number of brokerage firms and banks offer Internet voting options. The Internet
voting procedures are designed to authenticate stockholders identities, to allow stockholders to
give their voting instructions and to confirm that stockholders instructions have been recorded
properly. Stockholders should check their proxy card or voting instructions forwarded by their
broker, bank or other holder of record to see how they may vote via the Internet. Stockholders
voting via the Internet should understand that there may be costs associated with electronic
access, such as usage charges from telephone companies and Internet access providers that must be
borne by the stockholder.
Quorum. The presence, in person or by proxy, of a majority of the votes entitled to be cast by the
stockholders entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting is necessary to constitute a quorum.
Abstentions and broker non-votes will be included in the number of shares present at the Annual
Meeting for determining the presence of a quorum. Broker non-votes occur when a broker holding
customer securities in street name has not received voting instructions from the customer on
certain non-routine matters and, therefore, is barred by the rules of the applicable securities
exchange from exercising discretionary authority to vote those securities.
1
Voting. Each share of our common stock is entitled to one vote on each matter properly brought
before the meeting. Abstentions will be counted toward the tabulation of votes cast on proposals
submitted to stockholders and will have the same effect as negative votes, while broker non-votes
will not be counted as votes cast for or against such matters.
Other Matters. At the date this Proxy Statement went to press, we do not know of any other matter
to be raised at the Annual Meeting.
|
|
|
ITEM 1: |
|
APPROVAL OF AMENDED AND RESTATED ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION |
Item 1 is the approval of the Companys Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation.
The Board has approved, and is recommending to the shareholders for approval at the annual meeting,
an amendment and restatement of the Companys Articles of Incorporation to remove the limitation on
the maximum number of members of the Companys board of directors, eliminate certain provisions of
our Articles of Incorporation, modernize the provisions on directors and officers liability and
indemnification, and incorporate other substantive and stylistic revisions. The Board has
determined that this amendment and restatement of the Articles of Incorporation is advisable and
should be considered at the annual meeting of shareholders referenced in this proxy statement. It
is anticipated that the overall effect of these changes will be to make the administration of the
Company more efficient and provide more flexibility for the operations of the Company within the
limits of applicable law. Adoption of the Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation will not
alter in any way the directors existing fiduciary obligations.
The discussion below highlights certain differences between the Companys current Articles of
Incorporation and the proposed Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation. The most
significant changes are described below. There are other substantive and stylistic differences
between the Articles and the Amended and Restated Articles, certain of which are described below
under the caption Other Changes. The discussion below is qualified in its entirety by reference
to the full text of the proposed Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation, which is attached
hereto as Exhibit A.
Limitation on Size of Board. The Companys Articles of Incorporation limits the size of
the Board to seven members. The Board desires to remove this limitation from the Articles of
Incorporation. The Board proposes that the Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation allow
for the Board to be increased provided that the majority of the directors of the Company adopt a
resolution to that effect.
Liability and Indemnification. The Board proposes to revise Articles VIII and IX of the
Companys Articles of Incorporation. Article VIII addresses directors and officers liability and
Article IX addresses indemnification. The revised text modernizes these provisions and aligns each
of them with the current state of the law.
Other Changes. The Board proposes to revise the Companys Articles of Incorporation to
address the procedure by which the Company may revise the Bylaws and to incorporate stylistic
revisions.
The Board Unanimously Recommends a Vote FOR the Approval of the Amended and Restated Articles of
Incorporation Above.
ITEM 2: APPROVAL OF AMENDED AND RESTATED BYLAWS
Item 2 is the approval of the Companys Amended and Restated Bylaws.
The Board has approved, and is recommending to the shareholders for approval at the annual meeting,
an amendment and restatement of the Companys Bylaws to increase the functionality of the Board by
clarifying its role in the governance of the Company, modernize the Bylaws to accord with changes
in Nevada law, and eliminate ambiguity in the Companys Bylaws. The Board of Directors has
determined that this amendment to and
2
restatement of the Bylaws is advisable and should be considered at the annual meeting of
shareholders referenced in this proxy statement. It is anticipated that the overall effect of
these changes will be to make the administration of the Company more efficient and provide more
flexibility for the operations of the Company within the limits of applicable law. Adoption of the
Amended and Restated Bylaws will not alter in any way the directors existing fiduciary
obligations.
The discussion below will highlight certain differences between the Bylaws and the Amended and
Restated Bylaws. The most significant changes are described below. In addition to the most
significant changes, there are other substantive and stylistic differences between the Bylaws and
the Amended and Restated Bylaws, certain of which are described below under the caption Other
Changes. The discussion below is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the
proposed Amended and Restated Bylaws, which is attached hereto as Exhibit B.
Advance Notice for Business. The Board proposes to add a provision to the Bylaws governing
what items of business may be transacted at an annual meeting of shareholders and the notice
required for such business. The Companys Bylaws do not include a comparable provision.
Advance Notice for Nomination of Directors. The Board proposes to revise the Bylaws to
establish a procedure to nominate directors and provide notice to the Company.
Number of Directors. The Board proposes to revise the Bylaws to set the number of
directors at seven. Presently, the Board is set at six directors.
Uncertificated Shares. The Board proposes to revise the Bylaws to address uncertificated
shares in addition to certificated shares. The Companys Bylaws only address certificated shares.
Indemnification. The Board proposes to revise the Bylaws to expound upon the
indemnification provision in the Articles of Incorporation or the Amended and Restated Articles of
Incorporation, provided that the stockholders approve such Amended and Restated Articles of
Incorporation. The Companys Bylaws do not include any further discussion of indemnification
provisions.
Amendment to Bylaws. The Board proposes to revise the Bylaws to provide that the Bylaws
may be amended without stockholder approval. Stockholders holding 66 2/3% of the voting stock of the
Corporation may adopt, amend, alter or repeal the Amended and Restated Bylaws. The Companys
current Bylaws require stockholder approval to amend the Bylaws.
Other Changes. The Board proposes to revise the Bylaws to include provisions on
adjournment and the preparation of voting lists in addition to incorporating stylistic revisions.
The Board Unanimously Recommends a Vote FOR the Approval of the Amended and Restated Bylaws
Above.
ITEM 3: ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
Item 3 is the election of seven members of our Board. Our Bylaws currently provide that the number
of directors constituting the Board shall be at least three, provided the Company has at least
three stockholders, and can be changed from time to time by an amendment of the Bylaws adopted by
stockholders. If the amended and restated bylaws are approved by the stockholders the number of
directors will be set at seven.
Unless otherwise instructed, the proxy holders will vote the proxies received by them for the
nominees named below. If any nominee is unwilling to serve as a director at the time of the Annual
Meeting, the proxies will be voted for such other nominee(s) as shall be designated by the then
current Board to fill any vacancy. We have no reason to believe that any nominee will be unable or
unwilling to serve if elected as a director.
The Board proposes the election of the following nominees as directors assuming adoption of our new
amended and restated bylaws:
3
|
|
|
Dennis B. Tower
|
|
Frank P. Knuettel |
John L. Moran
|
|
David A. Melman |
John A. Brock
|
|
Christopher P. Moyes |
Ralph J. Goehring |
|
|
If elected, the foregoing seven nominees are expected to serve until the 2009 Annual Meeting of
Stockholders. The seven nominees for election as directors at the Annual Meeting who receive the
highest number of affirmative votes will be elected.
The principal occupation and certain other information about the nominees and certain executive
officers and significant employees are set forth on the following pages.
The Board Unanimously Recommends a Vote FOR the Election of the Nominees Listed Above.
MANAGEMENT
Directors and Executive Officers
The following tables set forth certain information with respect to our directors, officers and
significant employees as of March 31, 2008. The following persons serve as our directors:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Directors |
|
Age |
|
Present Position |
Dennis B. Tower
|
|
|
61 |
|
|
Director, Chairman of the
Board and Chief Executive
Officer |
John L. Moran
|
|
|
62 |
|
|
Director and President |
John A. Brock
|
|
|
77 |
|
|
Director |
Frank P. Knuettel
|
|
|
66 |
|
|
Director |
David A. Melman
|
|
|
65 |
|
|
Director |
Christopher P. Moyes
|
|
|
61 |
|
|
Director |
The following persons serve as our executive officers:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Executive Officers |
|
Age |
|
Present Position |
W. Kirk Bosché
|
|
|
57 |
|
|
Chief Financial Officer,
Treasurer and Secretary |
James H. Drennan
|
|
|
62 |
|
|
Vice President, Land and Legal |
Michael L. Moustakis
|
|
|
50 |
|
|
Vice President, Engineering |
Our executive officers are appointed by and serve at the discretion of the Board. There are no
family relationships between any director and any executive officer.
Dennis B. Tower, Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and Director. Before joining
Foothills as its Chief Executive Officer in 2006, Mr. Tower had extensive involvement in all phases
of new venture exploration, appraisal, project evaluation and development, asset acquisition and
disposal, strategic goals setting and human resource evaluation. During 2005, Mr. Tower, together
with Messrs. Moran and Bosché, evaluated opportunities that would be appropriate for launching a
new oil and gas exploration and development company, which ultimately led to the formation of
Foothills California, Inc. (Foothills California) at the end of 2005, which became a wholly owned
subsidiary of the Company in April 2006. From 2000 through 2004, Mr. Tower served as President and
Chief Executive Officer at First International Oil Corporation, a privately held independent oil
company with extensive holdings in Kazakhstan, where he led the company to a successful sale with a
major Chinese oil company. Previously, Mr. Tower held several Vice President, Manager, Director and
Geologist positions at Atlantic Richfield Company (ARCO), where he was responsible for the
companys Mozambique drilling operations, managed the companys exploration licenses in Myanmar and
the Philippines, coordinated exploration efforts in other Asian countries and evaluated field
redevelopment and asset acquisition opportunities. Mr. Tower led ARCOs North Sea
4
exploration activities for a nine-year period during which ARCO made numerous new oil and natural
gas discoveries in the United Kingdom, Norway and the Netherlands. During the course of his
career, Mr. Tower has been directly involved in the discovery of 35 oil and gas fields in 11
different countries. Mr. Tower holds both Bachelors and Masters degrees in Geology from Oregon
State University.
John L. Moran, President and Director. Prior to joining Foothills in 2006, Mr. Moran, together
with Messrs. Tower and Bosché, evaluated opportunities during 2005 that would be appropriate for
launching a new oil and gas exploration and development company, which ultimately led to the
formation of Foothills California at the end of 2005. In 2000, Mr. Moran formed and later served
as President and Exploration Manager of Carneros Energy, Inc., a private oil and gas exploration
company with exploration and acquisition emphasis in the San Joaquin and Sacramento Basins of
California, where he was responsible for obtaining $75 million in equity funding. From 1997 through
1998, Mr. Moran founded and acted as President of Integrated Petroleum Exploration (IPX) which
merged with and into Prime Natural Resources (Prime) in 1998, where he served as Vice President
of Exploration. Prior to his time at IPX and Prime, Mr. Moran served as both Vice President
Exploration/Chief Geologist and Exploration Manager/MidContinent Region for Apache Corporation. In
1995 Mr. Moran left Apache to found TeTra Exploration, Inc., an oil and gas exploration and
development company using 3D seismic to explore for oil and gas in the Anadarko Basin in Oklahoma.
He was responsible for the acquisition of the right to use 13,000 miles of 2D seismic for
exploration purposes and was instrumental in using this to develop a 75 square-mile 3D seismic
project that was later sold to a major oil and gas company. Mr. Moran holds both Bachelors and
Masters degrees in Geology with a major in Stratigraphy and a minor in Petrology from Oregon State
University.
W. Kirk Bosché, Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Secretary. Mr. Bosché joined Foothills in
2006 as its Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Bosché has diversified experience as a financial and
accounting executive officer in public and private oil and gas exploration and production
organizations. During 2005, Mr. Bosché, together with Messrs. Tower and Moran, evaluated
opportunities that would be appropriate for launching a new oil and gas exploration and development
company, which ultimately led to the formation of Foothills California at the end of 2005. Mr.
Bosché served as Chief Financial Officer of First International Oil Corporation from 1997 through
2004. From 1986 through 1997, Mr. Bosché was Vice President and Treasurer for Garnet Resources
Corporation, a publicly traded independent oil and gas exploration and production company with
activities in seven foreign countries. He began his career with Price Waterhouse & Co., and has
been a Certified Public Accountant since 1975. Mr. Bosché holds a BBA in Accounting from the
University of Houston.
James H. Drennan, Vice President, Land and Legal. Prior to joining Foothills in 2006, Mr. Drennan
was Land Manager at Vaquero Energy Inc. From 2002 through 2005, he served as General Counsel and
Land Manager of Carneros Energy, Inc. From 1990 through 2002, Mr. Drennan practiced law with the
firms of Jones & Beardsley and Noriega and Bradshaw, where his practice areas included oil and gas,
real estate, estate planning, probate, corporate, general business and litigation. From 1978 to
1990, he was Land Manager for Buttes Resources, Depco, Inc., Ferguson & Bosworth, and Bosworth Oil
Co. Mr. Drennan started his career in the oil and gas industry in 1974 as land agent with Gulf Oil
Corporation. He holds a JD from California Pacific School of Law, and a BA in Economics from San
Diego State University.
Michael L. Moustakis, Vice President, Engineering. Mr. Moustakis joined Foothills as Vice
President, Engineering in 2006. He was Engineering Manager at Rockwell Petroleum, Inc. from 2005
through 2006, and held the same position at OXY Resources California LLC from 2001 through 2005.
Mr. Moustakis was Lead Petroleum Engineer with Preussag Energie GmbH from 2000 to 2001, and
Director of Reservoir Engineering for Anglo-Albanian Petroleum Ltd. from 1994 to 2000. He began
his career with Union Oil of California in 1984, and subsequently served in various engineering
positions at several companies, including Shell Western E&P, Northern Digital Inc. and Eastern
Petroleum Services Ltd. He holds a Bachelors degree in Petroleum Engineering from the University
of Alaska.
John A. Brock, Director. Mr. Brock became a director of Foothills in 2006. Mr. Brock served as
Chairman of Brighton Energy, LLC until its sale in October 2006. He is a director of American
Trustcorp., Fabtec, Inc. (ReRoof America), Lifeguard America, LLC, Soho Properties, LLC, Medallion
Petroleum, Inc. and the AGOS Group, LLC, and is an advisory director of Ward Petroleum, Inc. Mr.
Brock is a member of nine petroleum industry associations. During his distinguished career, he has
formed exploration departments and instituted and supervised exploration programs for four
successful companies. Mr. Brock is a Founder and Director of the Sarkeys Energy Center at the
5
University of Oklahoma, is a Director of the Oklahoma Nature Conservancy and the Sutton Avian
Research Center, and is active in numerous other civic and community groups. He has also organized
and is currently Chairman of Oklahomans for Lawsuit Reform and co-chairman of Oklahomans for
Workers Compensation Reform. Mr. Brock holds a B.S. in Geological Engineering from the University
of Oklahoma.
Frank P. Knuettel, Director. Mr. Knuettel became a director of Foothills in 2006. He is an
Adjunct Faculty member at The Mason School of Business at the College of William and Mary where he
teaches securities analysis and Investment Banking. Prior to retiring in 2000, he was a Managing
Director of PaineWebber, Inc., since acquired by UBS Securities, where he specialized in the
analysis of energy and energy-related securities, as well as working in investment banking on
energy transactions. His career spanned nearly 35 years, during which he was associated with an
energy sector fund for 14 years and was in the securities industry for 21 years. Mr. Knuettel is a
Chartered Financial Analyst, and a member of the National Association of Petroleum Investment
Analysts and the CFA Institute. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from La Salle
University and a Master of Business Administration (Finance) from St. Johns University.
David A. Melman, Director. Mr. Melman became a director of Foothills in 2006. He currently is
President, Chief Executive Officer and a director of British American Natural Gas Corporation,
which is engaged in energy exploration in Mozambique, and a director of Swift LNG, LLC and Sunrise
Energy Resources, Inc. (OTCBB). He was a director of Omni Energy Services, Inc. (NASDAQ) from 2004
to 2005 and of Beta Oil and Gas, Inc. (NASDAQ) from 2003 to 2004. From 1998 to 2000, he served as
the Chief Corporate Officer and a director of Capatsky Oil and Gas Co., a predecessor to Cardinal
Resources plc. (AIM), an oil and gas company with interests in the Ukraine. His professional
experience includes the practice of law with Burke & Burke (1969-1971) and of accountancy with
Coopers & Lybrand (1968-1969). He is a member of the New York State Bar. Mr. Melman holds a
degree in Economics and Accounting from Queens College of the City University of New York, a Juris
Doctor from Brooklyn Law School and a Master of Law in Taxation from New York University Graduate
School of Law.
Christopher P. Moyes, Director. Mr. Moyes became a director of Foothills in 2006. He has been
active in the international and domestic oil and gas business since 1968. Mr. Moyes is President
of Moyes & Co., Inc., a private energy advisory firm headquartered in Dallas, Texas. Moyes & Co.,
Inc. provides advice on oil and gas exploration, appraisal, project and portfolio evaluation, asset
acquisitions and disposals and maintains a proprietary database covering upstream oil and gas.
Moyes & Co., Inc. has through 2005 evaluated opportunities for launching a new oil and gas
exploration and production company, which led to the formation of Foothills California at the end
of 2005. Previously Mr. Moyes was President of Gaffney Cline & Associates (GCA), based in Dallas,
Texas. Before coming to Dallas in 1976, Mr. Moyes was based in Singapore and London for GCA,
holding various management functions. Mr. Moyes started his career with West Australian Petroleum
Pty. Ltd., in Perth Australia. Mr. Moyes holds a Bachelor of Science in Geology from the
University of Western Australia and a Master of Science in Geology and Petroleum Engineering from
the Royal School of Mines, Imperial College, London.
Ralph J. Goehring, Nominee for Director. Mr. Goehring has been nominated to be elected as a
director of Foothills at our 2008 Annual Meeting of Stockholders. He has been a key player in the
strategic growth and direction of Berry Petroleum Company for 20 years, including the last 15 years
as Chief Financial Officer, and has announced his intention to retire from Berry in mid-2008. Berry
Petroleum Company is a NYSE listed domestic energy company with extensive operations in California,
Colorado and Utah. As a member of Berrys executive management team, Mr. Goehring has been involved
in setting the strategic direction of the company, determining growth opportunities, including
strategies to achieve successful outcomes,, negotiating transactions and performing due diligence.
As Berrys Chief Financial Officer, he has had oversight of all financial functions for the
company, including tax, investor relations, and hedging and risk management programs. Mr. Goehring
holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of California, Berkeley,
and is a Certified Public Accountant.
FURTHER INFORMATION CONCERNING THE BOARD
Director Independence. During 2007, our Board consisted of six directors. Upon adoption of the
amended bylaws our Board will consist of seven directors We adhere to the Nasdaq Marketplace Rules
in determining whether a director is independent and our Board has determined that three of our six
directors, Messrs. Brock, Knuettel and
6
Melman, are independent within the meaning of Rule 4200(a)(15) of the NASDAQ Manual.
Additionally our Board has determined that Mr. Goehring will be independent upon his election to
our Board.
Meetings and Committees. The Board held seven meetings during fiscal 2007 and acted three times by
unanimous written consent. With the exception of Mr. Brock, all of the directors attended at least
75% of the meetings of the Board and committees of which they are members.
The Board has an audit and compensation committee, each of which is constituted solely of
independent directors. The Board does not have a nominating committee. Until further
determination, the full board of directors will undertake the duties of the nominating committee.
Audit Committee. The Audit Committee consists of Messrs. Brock, Knuettel and Melman, each an
independent director. We do not currently have an audit committee financial expert as that term
is defined in Item 407(d)(5) of Regulation S-B The Board created the Audit Committee during fiscal
year 2007. During fiscal 2007, the Audit Committee held two meetings and took no action by
unanimous written consent.
Among other matters, the Audit Committee:
|
|
|
Discusses with management and the independent registered public accounting firm the
quality of our accounting principles and financial reporting; |
|
|
|
|
Engages and replaces the independent registered public accounting firm as
appropriate; |
|
|
|
|
Evaluates the performance of, independence of and pre-approves all services provided
by the independent registered public accounting firm; and |
|
|
|
|
Oversees our internal controls. |
Our Audit Committee charter is attached as Exhibit C hereto.
Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee consists of Messrs. Brock, Knuettel and Melman,
each an independent director. During fiscal 2007, the Compensation Committee held one meetings and
took no action by unanimous written consent.
Among other matters, the Compensation Committee:
|
|
|
Assists the Board in ensuring that a proper system of long-term and short-term
compensation is in place to provide performance-oriented incentives to management, and
that compensation plans are appropriate and competitive and properly reflect the
objectives and performance of management and the Company; |
|
|
|
|
Establishes the compensation of all of our executive officers; |
|
|
|
|
Prepares a report of the Compensation Committee for inclusion in the Companys
annual proxy statement; and |
|
|
|
|
Administers the Companys equity incentive programs, including the 2007 Equity
Incentive Plan. |
The Compensation Committee is responsible for overseeing the determination, implementation and
administration of remuneration, including compensation, benefits and perquisites, of all executive
officers and other members of senior management whose remuneration is the responsibility of the
Board.
More specifically, the Compensation Committees responsibilities include: (a) in consultation with
senior management, establishing the Companys general compensation philosophy and objectives; (b)
reviewing and approving goals and objectives relevant to the compensation of the Chief Executive
Officer and President; (c)
7
annually evaluating that performance in light of the goals and objectives established; (d)
reviewing and approving all compensation for executive officers, other than our Chief Executive
Officer and President; (e) reviewing and approving all employment agreements, severance agreements,
change in control provisions and agreement and any special supplemental benefits applicable to the
Companys executive officers; (f) reviewing and making recommendations to the Board with respect to
incentive compensation and equity-based plans; (g) reviewing and discussing with management the
disclosures made in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis prior to the filing of the Companys
Annual Report on Form 10-KSB and proxy statement for the annual meeting of stockholders, and
recommending to the Board whether the Compensation Discussion and Analysis should be included in
the Annual Report on Form 10-KSB and proxy statement; (h) preparing an annual compensation
committee report for inclusion in the Companys proxy statement for the annual meeting of
stockholders in accordance with the applicable rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission; (i)
conducting an annual performance evaluation of the Compensation Committee; (j) reviewing and
reassessing the adequacy of the Compensation Committee charter on an annual basis and recommending
any proposed changes to the Board for approval; and (k) administering the Companys equity-based
compensation plans, including the grant of stock options and other equity awards under such plans.
The Compensation Committee has the authority to delegate the responsibilities listed above to
subcommittees of the Compensation Committee if it determines such delegation would be in the best
interest of the Company.
Compensation Policies. Our executive compensation program is designed to attract and retain
executives capable of leading us in pursuit of our business objectives and to motivate them in
order to enhance long-term stockholder value. Long-term equity compensation also is used to
harmonize the interests of management and stockholders. The main elements of the program are
competitive pay and equity incentives. Annual compensation for our executive officers historically
consists of three primary elements: base salary, incentive bonuses and stock options.
The Compensation Committee considers a variety of individual and corporate factors in assessing our
executive officers and making informed compensation decisions. These factors include each
officers contributions to our business objectives, the compensation paid by comparable companies
to employees in similar situations, and, most importantly, our progress towards our long-term
business objectives. The factors that are used by the Compensation Committee in evaluating the
compensation of the Chief Executive Officer and President are no different from those that are used
to evaluate the compensation of other executives.
Our Compensation Committee charter is attached as Exhibit D hereto.
Director Nominations. All of our directors participate in the consideration of director nominees.
However, consistent with applicable NASDAQ listing standards, each director nominee must be
selected or recommended for the Boards selection by a majority of the independent directors of our
Board. We currently do not have a charter or written policy with regard to the nomination process.
In considering candidates for directorship, the Board considers the entirety of each candidates
credentials and does not have any specific minimum qualifications that must be met in order to be
recommended as a nominee. The Board does believe, however, that all Board members should have the
highest character and integrity, a reputation for working constructively with others, sufficient
time to devote to Board matters and no conflict of interest that would interfere with their
performance as a director of a public corporation.
Our Board may employ a variety of methods for identifying and evaluating nominees for director,
including stockholder recommendations. The Board regularly assesses its size, the need for
particular expertise on the Board and whether any vacancies are expected due to retirement or
otherwise. If vacancies are anticipated or otherwise arise, the Board will consider various
potential candidates for director who may come to the Boards attention through current Board
members, professional search firms or consultants, stockholders or other persons. The Board may
hire and pay a fee to consultants or search firms to assist in the process of identifying and
evaluating candidates. No such consultants or search firms have been used to date and,
accordingly, no fees have been paid to consultants or search firms in the past fiscal year. The
Board does not evaluate candidates differently based on who made the recommendation for
consideration.
The Board will consider for nomination as directors persons recommended by stockholders. Such
recommendations must be in writing and delivered to our Secretary at 4540 California Avenue, Suite
550, Bakersfield, California
8
93309, at least 120 calendar days before the date that our Proxy Statement is released to
stockholders in connection with the previous years annual meeting of stockholders
Policy on Attending the Annual Meeting. We encourage, but do not require, all incumbent directors
and director nominees to attend our annual meetings of stockholders. All of our incumbent
directors attended our 2007 annual meeting of stockholders.
Stockholder Communications with the Board. Stockholders may communicate with the Board by sending
a letter to the Board of Directors of Foothills Resources, Inc., c/o Office of the Secretary, 4540
California Avenue, Suite 550, Bakersfield, California 93309. All communications must contain a
clear notation indicating that they are a StockholderBoard Communication or
StockholderDirector Communication, and must identify the author as a stockholder. The office
of the Secretary will receive the correspondence and forward it to any individual director or
directors to whom the communication is directed, unless the communication is unduly hostile,
threatening, or illegal, does not reasonably relate to our company or our business, or is similarly
inappropriate. The office of the Secretary has authority to discard any inappropriate
communications or to take other appropriate actions with respect to any inappropriate
communications.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Summary Compensation Table
The following table summarizes all compensation recorded by us in the last two completed fiscal
years for our Chief Executive Officer, President, Chief Financial Officer, and the Companys two
other executive officers Such officers are referred to herein as our Named Executive Officers.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nonqualified |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stock |
|
Option |
|
Non-Equity |
|
Deferred |
|
All Other |
|
|
Name and |
|
|
|
|
|
Salary |
|
Bonus |
|
Awards |
|
Awards ($) |
|
Incentive Plan |
|
Compensation |
|
Compensation |
|
|
Principal Position |
|
Year |
|
($) (1) |
|
($) |
|
($)(2) |
|
(2) |
|
Compensation |
|
Earnings ($) |
|
($) (3) |
|
Total ($) |
Dennis B. Tower |
|
|
2007 |
|
|
|
190,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
26,048 |
|
|
|
37,964 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,850 |
|
|
|
256,862 |
|
Chief Executive |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
|
124,028 |
|
|
|
66,500 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
27,806 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
218,334 |
|
Officer |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
John L. Moran |
|
|
2007 |
|
|
|
190,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
26,048 |
|
|
|
37,964 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
254,012 |
|
President |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
|
124,028 |
|
|
|
66,500 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
27,806 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
218,334 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
W. Kirk Bosché |
|
|
2007 |
|
|
|
175,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
17,365 |
|
|
|
25,309 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5,012 |
|
|
|
222,686 |
|
Chief Financial |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
|
114,236 |
|
|
|
111,250 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
18,537 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,692 |
|
|
|
246,715 |
|
Officer and
Secretary |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Michael L. Moustakis |
|
|
2007 |
|
|
|
180,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
74,728 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,553 |
|
|
|
218,181 |
|
Vice President, |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
|
37,500 |
|
|
|
45,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
10,936 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
95 |
|
|
|
93,531 |
|
Engineering |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
James H. Drennan |
|
|
2007 |
|
|
|
150,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
65,364 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,817 |
|
|
|
256,281 |
|
Vice President, Land |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
|
85,417 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
43,576 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
185 |
|
|
|
129,178 |
|
and Legal |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
Salaries are provided for 2007 and that part of 2006 during which each Named Executive
Officer served as such. Messrs. Tower, Moran and Bosché commenced employment with the Company
on April 6, 2006. Mr. Moustakis and Mr. Drennan commenced employment with the Company on
October 16, 2006 and May 1, 2006, respectively. |
|
(2) |
|
Represents the dollar value recognized in 2007 as compensation expense for financial
statement reporting purposes of restricted shares and options awarded in 2007 or earlier. See
Note 5 to our Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of the assumptions
made in the valuation of the restricted shares and options. |
|
(3) |
|
Consists of the following: |
|
(a) |
|
Matching contributions to our 401(k) savings plan during 2007 for the
benefit of the Named Executive Officers in the amounts of $2,850 for Mr. Tower,
$2,917 for Mr. Bosché, $903 for Mr. Moustakis, and $2,500 for Mr. Drennan; and |
9
|
(b) |
|
Life insurance premiums paid for the benefit of the Named Executive
Officers in the amounts of $2,095 and $2,692 for Mr. Bosché for 2007 and 2006,
respectively, $650 and $95 for Mr. Moustakis for 2007 and 2006, respectively, and
$317 and $185 for Mr. Drennan for 2007 and 2006, respectively. |
Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year End
The following table provides information concerning unexercised options, stock that has not vested
and equity incentive plan awards for each of our Named Executive Officers as of December 31, 2007.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Option Awards |
|
Stock Awards |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Equity |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Incentive |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Plan |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Equity |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Awards: |
|
Equity Incentive |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Incentive Plan |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of |
|
Plan Awards: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Awards: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Market |
|
Unearned |
|
Market or Payout |
|
|
Number of |
|
Number of |
|
Number of |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of |
|
Value of |
|
Shares, |
|
Value of |
|
|
Securities |
|
Securities |
|
Securities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Share or |
|
Shares or |
|
Units or |
|
Unearned Shares, |
|
|
Underlying |
|
Underlying |
|
Underlying |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Units of |
|
Units of |
|
Other |
|
Units or Other |
|
|
Unexercised |
|
Unexercised |
|
Unexercised |
|
Option |
|
Option |
|
Stock That |
|
Stock That |
|
Rights That |
|
Rights That |
|
|
Options (#) |
|
Options (#) |
|
Unearned |
|
Exercise |
|
Expiration |
|
Have Not |
|
Have Not |
|
Have Not |
|
Have Not |
Name |
|
Exercisable |
|
Unexercisable |
|
Options (#) |
|
Price ($) |
|
Date |
|
Vested (#) |
|
Vested ($) |
|
Vested (#) |
|
Vested ($) |
Dennis B. Tower |
|
|
150,000 |
|
|
|
150,000 |
(1) |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
0.70 |
|
|
|
4/6/2016 |
|
|
|
26,471 |
(2) |
|
|
21,442 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
John L. Moran |
|
|
150,000 |
|
|
|
150,000 |
(1) |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
0.70 |
|
|
|
4/6/2016 |
|
|
|
26,471 |
(2) |
|
|
21,442 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
W. Kirk Bosché |
|
|
100,000 |
|
|
|
100,000 |
(1) |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
0.70 |
|
|
|
4/6/2016 |
|
|
|
17,647 |
(2) |
|
|
14,294 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Michael L. Moustakis |
|
|
100,000 |
|
|
|
100,000 |
(1) |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
1.99 |
|
|
|
11/7/2016 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
James H. Drennan |
|
|
50,000 |
|
|
|
50,000 |
(1) |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
3.59 |
|
|
|
5/2/2016 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
The right to exercise 1/2 of these shares will vest on each of April 6, 2008 and April 6,
2009 for Messrs. Tower, Moran and Bosché, on each of November 7, 2008 and November 7, 2009 for
Mr. Moustakis, and on each of May 2, 2008 and May 2009 for Mr. Drennan, in each such case if
the Named Executive Officer is still employed by the Company on such date. |
|
(2) |
|
One-half of these shares will vest on each of April 6, 2008 and April 6, 2009, in each case
if the Named Executive Officer is still employed by the Company on such date. |
Director Compensation
The following table provides information concerning the compensation of directors who are not Named
Executive Officers for the year ended December 31, 2007:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Non-Equity |
|
Nonqualified |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fees Earned or |
|
|
|
|
|
Option |
|
Incentive Plan |
|
Deferred |
|
All Other |
|
|
|
|
Paid in Cash |
|
Stock |
|
Awards ($) |
|
Compensation |
|
Compensation |
|
Compensation |
|
|
Name |
|
($) |
|
Awards ($) |
|
(1) |
|
($) |
|
Earnings ($) |
|
($) |
|
Total ($) |
John A. Brock |
|
|
15,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
37,364 |
(2) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
52,364 |
|
Frank P. Knuettel |
|
|
15,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
50,157 |
(2) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
65,157 |
|
David A. Melman |
|
|
15,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
22,832 |
(2) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
37,832 |
|
Christopher P. Moyes |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
298,170 |
(3) |
|
|
298,170 |
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
Represents the dollar value recognized in 2007 as compensation expense for financial
statement reporting purposes of options awarded in 2007 or earlier. See Note 5 to our Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of the assumptions made in the valuation
of the options. The weighted average grant-date fair values per option for Messrs. Brock,
Knuettel and Melman were $1.12, $1.50 and $0.68, respectively. |
|
(2) |
|
One-hundred thousand stock option awards remain outstanding. |
10
(3) |
|
Includes fees payable for fiscal year 2007 under our consulting agreement with Moyes & Co.,
Inc. Moyes & Co., Inc. identifies potential acquisition, development, exploitation and
exploration opportunities that fit with our strategy, and is expected to screen opportunities
and perform detailed evaluation of those opportunities that we decide to pursue, as well as
assist with due diligence and negotiations with respect to such opportunities. Mr. Moyes is a
major shareholder and the President of Moyes & Co., Inc. Pursuant to the terms of our
agreement with Moyes & Co., Inc., Mr. Moyes does not receive any further compensation for
serving on our Board. |
Directors who are not also executive officers of the Company receive a standard fee of $5,000 for
each non-telephonic meeting of the Board that such directors attend. Additionally, for such
meetings, the Company reimburses the non-management directors for reasonable travel expenses. The
directors do not receive a per-meeting fee for telephonic meetings of the Board.
In consideration of their service to the Company, options were issued to each of our directors,
with the exception of Mr. Moyes. Directors are also eligible to receive additional awards at the
discretion of the Board under the 2007 Equity Incentive Plan.
Mr. Tower and Mr. Moran have entered into employment agreements with the Company, which are
explained in detail below. Neither Mr. Tower nor Mr. Moran receives the $5,000 fee for attending
non-telephonic meetings of the Board. Additionally, options granted to each of Mr. Tower and Mr.
Moran to date have been granted pursuant to their employment agreements with the Company, though
there is no prohibition on further grants by the Board under the 2007 Equity Incentive Plan on the
basis of Mr. Towers and Mr. Morans service on the Board.
Mr. Moyes has foregone the compensation described above, pursuant to the terms of our retainer
agreement with Moyes & Co., Inc., dated April 7, 2006. Under our retainer agreement, we pay Moyes
& Co., Inc. a monthly retainer of $17,500 and additional fees for services requested that exceed
those covered by the retainer, and reimburse normal business travel and other expenses, in exchange
for Moyes & Co., Inc.s services to us. Moyes & Co., Inc. identifies potential acquisition,
development, exploitation and exploration opportunities which fit with our operating strategy.
Additionally, Moyes & Co., Inc. initially screens such opportunities, performs detailed evaluations
of each potential opportunity, and assists with due diligence and negotiations of those
opportunities we decide to pursue.
Employment Agreements
We have entered into executive employment agreements with Dennis B. Tower, our Chief Executive
Officer, John L. Moran, our President, and W. Kirk Bosché, our Chief Financial Officer.
Additionally, we entered into written letters of employment with James H. Drennan, our Vice
President, Land and Legal, and Michael L. Moustakis, our Vice President, Engineering.
Dennis B. Tower Chief Executive Officer
On April 6, 2006, we entered into an executive employment agreement with Mr. Tower which provides
for an initial annual base salary of $190,000 and for unspecified annual bonuses as warranted.
Under the agreement, Mr. Tower received options to purchase up to 300,000 shares of common stock,
which options vest as follows: 25% of the shares of common stock underlying such option vested on
the date of grant, and the remaining 75% of the shares of common stock underlying the option will
vest in equal annual installments on the first, second and third anniversaries of the date of
grant. Subsequent grants of stock options will vest and be exercisable pursuant to the terms and
conditions of the 2007 Equity Incentive Plan.
Mr. Towers employment agreement has an unspecified term of service subject to termination for
cause and without cause, and provides for severance payments to Mr. Tower, in the event he is
terminated without cause or he terminates the agreement for good reason, in the amount of two times
total compensation for the prior year. Good reason includes an adverse change in the executives
position, title, duties or responsibilities, or any failure to re-elect him to such position
(except for termination for cause). Mr. Towers employment agreement includes standard indemnity,
insurance, non-competition and confidentiality provisions.
11
John L. Moran President
On April 6, 2006, we entered into an executive employment agreement with Mr. Moran which provides
for an initial annual base salary of $190,000 and for unspecified annual bonuses as warranted.
Under the agreement, Mr. Moran received options to purchase up to 300,000 shares of common stock,
which options vest as follows: 25% of the shares of common stock underlying such option vested on
the date of grant, and the remaining 75% of the shares of common stock underlying the option will
vest in equal annual installments on the first, second and third anniversaries of the date of
grant. Subsequent grants of stock options will vest and be exercisable pursuant to the terms and
conditions of the 2007 Equity Incentive Plan.
Mr. Morans employment agreement has an unspecified term of service subject to termination for
cause and without cause, and provides for severance payments to Mr. Moran, in the event he is
terminated without cause or he terminates the agreement for good reason, in the amount of two times
total compensation for the prior year. Good reason includes an adverse change in the executives
position, title, duties or responsibilities, or any failure to re-elect him to such position
(except for termination for cause). Mr. Morans employment agreement includes standard indemnity,
insurance, non-competition and confidentiality provisions.
W. Kirk Bosché Chief Financial Officer
On April 6, 2006, we entered into an executive employment agreement with Mr. Bosché which provides
for an initial annual base salary of $175,000 and for unspecified annual bonuses as warranted.
Under the agreement, Mr. Bosché received options to purchase up to 200,000 shares of common stock,
which options vest as follows: 25% of the shares of common stock underlying such option vested on
the date of grant, and the remaining 75% of the shares of common stock underlying the option will
vest in equal annual installments on the first, second and third anniversaries of the date of
grant. Subsequent grants of stock options will vest and be exercisable pursuant to the terms and
conditions of the 2007 Equity Incentive Plan.
Mr. Boschés employment agreement has an unspecified term of service subject to termination for
cause and without cause, and provides for severance payments to Mr. Bosché, in the event he is
terminated without cause or he terminates the agreement for good reason, in the amount of two times
total compensation for the prior year. Good reason includes an adverse change in the executives
position, title, duties or responsibilities, or any failure to re-elect him to such position
(except for termination for cause). Mr. Boschés employment agreement includes standard indemnity,
insurance, non-competition and confidentiality provisions.
James H. Drennan Vice President, Land and Legal
On April 21, 2006 we entered into a written employment agreement with Mr. Drennan, effective as of
May 1, 2006, which provides for an initial annual base salary of $125,000 and other unspecified
annual bonuses as warranted. Under the agreement, Mr. Drennan is entitled to receive options to
purchase up to 100,000 shares of our common stock, which options were awarded by our Board on May
2, 2006. These options vest as follows: 25% of the shares of common stock underlying such option
vested on the date of grant, and the remaining 75% of the shares of common stock underlying the
option will vest in equal annual installments on the first, second and third anniversaries of the
date of grant. Subsequent grants of stock options will vest and be exercisable pursuant to the
terms and conditions of the 2007 Equity Incentive Plan. Effective as of December 1, 2006, Mr.
Drennans annual base salary was increased to $150,000.
Mr. Drennans employment agreement has an unspecified term of service and his employment is at
will and subject to termination for any reason, without severance payment. In connection with his
employment, Mr. Drennan also signed our standard Assignment of Invention and Non-Disclosure
Agreement, Non-Solicitation Agreement, and Insider Trading and Disclosure Policy Acknowledgement.
Michael L. Moustakis Vice President, Engineering
On October 4, 2006 we entered into a written employment agreement with Mr. Moustakis which provides
for an initial annual base salary of $180,000, a hiring bonus of $45,000 and other unspecified
annual bonuses as warranted.
12
Under the agreement, Mr. Moustakis is entitled to receive options to purchase up to 200,000 shares
of our common stock, which options were awarded by our Board on November 7, 2006. These options
vest as follows: 25% of the shares of common stock underlying such option vested on the date of
grant, and the remaining 75% of the shares of common stock underlying the option will vest in equal
annual installments on the first, second and third anniversaries of the date of grant. Subsequent
grants of stock options will vest and be exercisable pursuant to the terms and conditions of the
2007 Equity Incentive Plan.
Mr. Moustakiss employment agreement has an unspecified term of service and his employment is at
will and subject to termination for any reason, without severance payment. In connection with his
employment, Mr. Moustakis also signed our standard Assignment of Invention and Non-Disclosure
Agreement, Non-Solicitation Agreement, and Insider Trading and Disclosure Policy Acknowledgement.
Certain Transactions with Directors and Executive Officers
Except as disclosed in this Proxy Statement, neither the nominees for election as directors, our
directors or executive officers, nor any of their respective associates or affiliates, had any
material interest, direct or indirect, in any material transaction to which we were a party during
fiscal 2007, or which is presently proposed.
In April 2006, we entered into an agreement with Moyes & Co., Inc. to identify potential
acquisition, development, exploitation and exploration opportunities that fit with our strategy.
Moyes & Co., Inc. screens opportunities and performs detailed evaluation of those opportunities
that we decide to pursue, and assists with due diligence and negotiations with respect to such
opportunities. Christopher P. Moyes was the beneficial owner of 2.6% of our common stock as of
February 29, 2008, and is a member of our Board. Mr. Moyes is a major shareholder and the
President of Moyes & Co., Inc. Because Moyes & Co., Inc. is being compensated for identifying
opportunities and assisting us in pursuing those opportunities, the interests of Moyes & Co., Inc.
are not the same as our interests. We are responsible for evaluating any opportunities presented
to us by Moyes & Co., Inc. to determine if those opportunities are consistent with our business
strategy.
Mr. Moyes has foregone his compensation as a director, pursuant to the terms of our agreement with
Moyes & Co., Inc. Under the agreement, we pay Moyes & Co., Inc. a monthly retainer of $17,500 and
additional fees for services requested that exceed those covered by the retainer, and reimburse
normal business travel and other expenses, in exchange for Moyes & Co., Inc.s services to us.
Pursuant to our business plan with respect to the Anadarko Basin in southwest Oklahoma, we
anticipate acquiring non-exclusive rights, from TeTra Exploration, Inc., to a 3D seismic survey in
Roger Mills County, Oklahoma. TeTra Exploration, Inc. is a company that is owned by John Moran,
our President. TeTra Exploration, Inc. has reprocessed the 3D survey and completed preliminary
geological and geophysical interpretations of the survey data. Upon our completion of an agreement
with TeTra Exploration, Inc., we plan to finalize the interpretations, identify drillable
prospects, acquire oil and gas leases over those prospects, and negotiate joint ventures with other
companies. Mr. Moran and John A. Brock, a director of Foothills, are or will be entitled to receive
an assignment of an overriding royalty interest on any oil and gas leases acquired by the Company
over such prospects, with the amount of the overriding royalty interest determined in accordance
with a sliding scale formula based on the lessor royalty interest in such leases.
13
PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS
The following table sets forth certain information regarding the beneficial ownership of our common
stock as of March 31, 2008. The table sets forth the beneficial ownership of (i) each person who,
to our knowledge, beneficially owns more than 5% of the outstanding shares of common stock; (ii)
each of our directors and executive officers; and (iii) all of our executive officers and directors
as a group. The number of shares owned includes all shares beneficially owned by such persons, as
calculated in accordance with Rule 13d-3 promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended (the Exchange Act), and such information is not necessarily indicative of beneficial
ownership for any other purpose. Under such rules, beneficial ownership includes any shares of our
common stock as to which a person has sole or shared voting power or investment power and any
shares of common stock which the person has the right to acquire within 60 days of March 31, 2008
through the exercise of any option, warrant or right, through conversion of any security or
pursuant to the automatic termination of a power of attorney or revocation of a trust,
discretionary account or similar arrangement. The address of each executive officer and director
is c/o Foothills Resources, Inc., 4540 California Avenue, Suite 550, Bakersfield, California 93309.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Beneficial Ownership (1) |
Beneficial Owner |
|
Number of Shares (#) |
|
Percent of Total (%) |
Dennis B. Tower (2) |
|
|
5,130,335 |
|
|
|
8.4 |
% |
John L. Moran (3) |
|
|
4,982,710 |
|
|
|
8.2 |
% |
W. Kirk Bosché (4) |
|
|
3,458,877 |
|
|
|
5.7 |
% |
Christopher P. Moyes (5) |
|
|
1,554,475 |
|
|
|
2.6 |
% |
Michael L. Moustakis (6) |
|
|
193,000 |
|
|
|
* |
|
James H. Drennan (7) |
|
|
75,000 |
|
|
|
* |
|
Frank P. Knuettel (8) |
|
|
200,001 |
|
|
|
* |
|
John A. Brock (9) |
|
|
50,000 |
|
|
|
* |
|
David A. Melman (10) |
|
|
137,500 |
|
|
|
* |
|
Ralph J. Goehring (11) |
|
|
105,000 |
|
|
|
* |
|
Goldman, Sachs & Co. (12) |
|
|
8,000,000 |
|
|
|
12.3 |
% |
Executive Officers and Directors as Group |
|
|
15,886,898 |
|
|
|
25.7 |
% |
Notes:
(1) |
|
Beneficial ownership percentages are calculated based on 60,572,442 shares of common stock
issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2008. Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance
with Rule 13d-3 of |
14
the Exchange Act. The number of shares beneficially owned by a person includes shares of
common stock underlying options or warrants held by that person that are currently
exercisable or exercisable within 60 days of March 31, 2008. The shares issuable pursuant
to the exercise of those options or warrants are deemed outstanding for computing the
percentage ownership of the person holding those options and warrants but are not deemed
outstanding for the purposes of computing the percentage ownership of any other person. The
persons and entities named in the table have sole voting and sole investment power with
respect to the shares set forth opposite that persons name, subject to community property
laws, where applicable, unless otherwise noted in the applicable footnote.
(2) |
|
Includes warrants to acquire 112,500 shares of common stock purchased in the April 2006
offering and exercisable within 60 days. Includes options exercisable within 60 days to
acquire 225,000 shares of common stock. Includes 41,116 shares of restricted stock awarded
under our 2007 Equity Incentive Plan. Includes 4,467,383 shares of common stock owned by The
Tower Family Trust. |
|
(3) |
|
Includes options exercisable within 60 days to acquire 225,000 shares of common stock.
Includes 40,991 shares of restricted stock awarded under our 2007 Equity Incentive Plan. |
|
(4) |
|
Includes warrants to acquire 54,000 shares of common stock purchased in the April 2006
offering and exercisable within 60 days. Includes options exercisable within 60 days to
acquire 150,000 shares of common stock. Includes 27,665 shares of restricted stock awarded
under our 2007 Equity Incentive Plan. |
|
(5) |
|
Includes 217,188 shares of common stock held by MMP LLP, in which Mr. Moyes is a partner.
Includes 34,000 shares of common stock and warrants to acquire 25,500 shares of common stock
exercisable within 60 days, which shares and warrants were purchased by Choregus Master Trust,
Plan I, Money Purchase and Choregus Master Trust, Plan II, Profit Sharing in the April 2006
offering, and of which shares and warrants Mr. Moyes is deemed to be the beneficial owner. |
|
(6) |
|
Includes options exercisable within 60 days to acquire 100,000 shares of common stock. |
|
(7) |
|
Includes options exercisable within 60 days to acquire 75,000 shares of common stock. |
|
(8) |
|
Includes options exercisable within 60 days to acquire 75,000 shares of common stock. Also
includes 71,429 shares of common stock and warrants to acquire 53,572 shares of common stock
exercisable within 60 days, which shares and warrants were purchased by Francis P. Knuettel as
Trustee of the Francis P. Knuettel Rev LVG TR UA DTD 3/7/03. |
|
(9) |
|
Includes options exercisable within 60 days to acquire 50,000 shares of common stock. |
|
(10) |
|
Includes options exercisable within 60 days to acquire 50,000 shares of common stock. Also
includes warrants to acquire 37,500 shares of common stock purchased in the April 2006
offering and exercisable within 60 days. |
|
(11) |
|
Includes options expected to be exercisable within 60 days to acquire 25,000 shares of common
stock to be granted to Mr. Goehring concurrent with his election to the Board. |
|
(12) |
|
Includes warrants to acquire 4,666,667 shares of common stock acquired in the September 2006
offering and exercisable within 60 days. The address of Goldman, Sachs & Co. is 85 Broad
Street, New York, New York 10004. |
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires our directors, officers (including a person performing a
principal policy-making function) and persons who own more than 10% of a registered class of our
equity securities to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission initial reports of ownership
and reports of changes in ownership of our common stock and other equity securities of ours.
Directors, officers and 10% holders are required by Securities and Exchange Commissions
regulations to send us copies of all of the Section 16(a) reports they file. Based solely
15
upon a review of the copies of the forms sent to us and the representations made by the reporting
persons to us, other than as described below, we believe that during the fiscal year ended December
31, 2007 our directors, officers and 10% holders complied with all filing requirements under
Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act.
Dennis B. Tower filed a delinquent Form 4 on April 4, 2008.
John L. Moran filed a delinquent Form 4 on April 4, 2008.
W. Kirk Bosché filed a delinquent Form 4 on April 4, 2008.
David A. Melman filed a delinquent Form 3 on April 6, 2007.
Michael Moustakis filed a delinquent Form 3 and Form 4 on June 13, 2007.
|
|
|
ITEM 4: |
|
RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM |
Item 4 is the ratification the Companys engagement of Brown Armstrong Paulden McCown Starbuck
Thornburgh & Keeter Accountancy Corporation (Brown Armstrong) to serve as our independent
registered public accounting firm for the current fiscal year ending December 31, 2008.
Stockholder ratification of the appointment of our independent registered public accounting firm is
not required by the Companys bylaws or otherwise. However, we are submitting this proposal to the
stockholders as a matter of good corporate practice.
The ratification of Brown Armstrong as the Companys independent registered public accounting firm
for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2008, will require the affirmative vote of a majority of
the shares of common stock present or represented and entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting. All
proxies will be voted to approve the appointment unless a contrary vote is indicated on the
enclosed proxy card.
If the appointment of Brown Armstrong is not ratified, we will reconsider the appointment. Even if
the appointment is ratified, we may direct the appointment of a different independent registered
public accounting firm at any time during the year if it is determined that such change would be in
the best interests of the Company and its stockholders.
The Board Unanimously Recommends a Vote FOR the Ratification of the Appointment of Brown
Armstrong Paulden McCown Starbuck Thornburgh & Keeter Accountancy Corporation as the Companys
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2008.
CODE OF ETHICS
The Company has not adopted a code of ethics but plans to do so in the near future.
STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS
Any stockholder who intends to present a proposal at the 2009 Annual Meeting of Stockholders for
inclusion in our Proxy Statement and proxy form relating to that Annual Meeting must submit the
proposal to us at our principal executive offices by [December 24, 2008]. In addition, in the
event we do not receive a stockholder proposal by [December 24, 2008], the proxy to be solicited by
the Board for the 2009 Annual Meeting will confer discretionary authority on the holders of the
proxy to vote the shares if the proposal is presented at the 2009 Annual Meeting without any
discussion of the proposal in the Proxy Statement for that meeting.
The Securities and Exchange Commissions rules and regulations provide that if the date of our 2009
Annual Meeting is advanced or delayed more than 30 days from the date of the 2008 Annual Meeting,
we must receive stockholder proposals intended to be included in the proxy materials for the 2009
Annual Meeting within a reasonable time before we begin to print and mail the proxy materials for
the 2009 Annual Meeting.
16
REGISTERED INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
The following table sets forth the aggregate fees billed to the Company by Brown Armstrong and
Amisano Hanson Chartered Accountants for the audit of our financial statements for 2007 and 2006,
and for other services provided by those firms during those periods:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year Ended December 31, |
|
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2006 |
|
Audit fees |
|
$ |
67,393 |
|
|
$ |
67,041 |
|
Audit-related fees |
|
|
3,500 |
|
|
|
29,122 |
|
Tax fees |
|
|
23,408 |
|
|
|
2,212 |
|
All other fees |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total fees |
|
$ |
94,301 |
|
|
$ |
98,375 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Audit-Related Fees billed during fiscal 2007 and 2006 were for services related to reviews of a
Form SB-2 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the audit of statements of
revenues and direct operating expenses of certain properties acquired by the Registrant. Tax Fees
billed during fiscal 2007 and 2006 were for professional services rendered for tax compliance, tax
advice and tax planning.
On April 6, 2006, Brown Armstrong was engaged as the Companys independent registered public
accounting firm.
Representatives of Brown Armstrong are expected to be present at the 2008 Annual Meeting, will have
an opportunity to make a statement, if they desire to do so, and are expected to be available to
respond to appropriate questions.
Pre-Approval Policy
The Board has adopted a policy for the pre-approval of all audit and non-audit services to be
performed for us by our independent registered public accounting firm. The Board considered the
role of Brown Armstrong in providing audit, audit-related and tax services to us and concluded that
such services were compatible with Brown Armstrongs role as our independent registered public
accounting firm.
DELIVERY OF DOCUMENTS TO SECURITY HOLDERS SHARING AN ADDRESS
We are delivering, or making available electronically, this Proxy Statement and our 2007 Annual
Report to all stockholders of record as of the record date. Stockholders residing in the same
household who hold their shares in the name of a bank, broker or other holder of record may receive
only one Proxy Statement and Annual Report if previously notified by their bank, broker or other
holder. This process by which only one annual report or proxy statement, as the case may be, is
delivered to multiple security holders sharing an address, unless contrary instructions are
received from one or more of the security holders, is called householding. Householding may
provide convenience for stockholders and cost savings for companies. Once begun, householding may
continue unless instructions to the contrary are received from one or more of the stockholders
within the household.
Street name stockholders in a single household who received only one copy of the Proxy Statement
and Annual Report may request to receive separate copies in the future by following the
instructions provided on the voting instruction form sent to them by their bank, broker or other
holder of record. Similarly, street name stockholders who are receiving multiple copies may
request that only a single set of materials be sent to them in the future by checking the
appropriate box on the voting instruction form. Otherwise, street name stockholders should contact
their bank, broker, or other holder.
Copies of this Proxy Statement and the 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-KSB, including the financial
statements, financial statement schedules and exhibits, are available promptly without charge by
calling 888-662-3877, or by writing to Investor Relations, Foothills Resources, Inc., 4540
California Avenue, Suite 550,
17
Bakersfield, California 93309. If you are receiving multiple copies of this Proxy Statement and
the Annual Report, you also may request orally or in writing to receive a single copy of this Proxy
Statement and the Annual Report by calling 888-662-3877, or writing to Investor Relations,
Foothills Resources, Inc., 4540 California Avenue, Suite 550, Bakersfield, California 93309.
SOLICITATION OF PROXIES
It is expected that the solicitation of proxies will be by mail. The cost of solicitation by
management will be borne by us. We will reimburse brokerage firms and other persons representing
beneficial owners of shares for their reasonable disbursements in forwarding solicitation material
to beneficial owners. Proxies also may be solicited by certain of our directors and officers,
without additional compensation, personally or by mail, telephone, telegram or otherwise.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dennis B. Tower
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer |
|
|
April 23, 2008
4540 California Avenue, Suite 550
Bakersfield, California 93309
18
Exhibit A
AMENDED AND RESTATED
ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION
OF
FOOTHILLS RESOURCES, INC.
A NEVADA CORPORATION
ARTICLE I
NAME
The name of this corporation is Foothills Resources, Inc. (the Corporation).
ARTICLE II
RESIDENT AGENT & REGISTERED OFFICE
SECTION 2.01. REGISTERED OFFICE. The address of its registered office is 5300 West Sahara,
Suite 101, Las Vegas, Nevada 89146.
SECTION 2.02. OTHER OFFICES. The Corporation may also maintain offices for the transaction of
any business at such other places within or without the State of Nevada as it may from time to time
determine. Corporate business of every kind and nature may be conducted, and meetings for
directors and stockholders held outside the State of Nevada with the same effect as if in the State
of Nevada.
ARTICLE III
PURPOSE
The Corporation is organized for the purpose of engaging in any lawful activity, within or
without the State of Nevada.
ARTICLE IV
SHARES OF STOCK
SECTION 4.01. NUMBER AND CLASS. The Corporation shall authorize the issuance of two classes
of stock, common stock and preferred stock. The total number of shares of authorized capital stock
of the Corporation shall consist of the following: two hundred fifty million (250,000,000) shares
of Common Stock, at a par value of $0.001 (Common Stock), and twenty five million (25,000,000)
shares of Preferred Stock, at a par value of $0.001 (Preferred Stock). These classes will be
further distinguished by the fact that those shares referred to above as Common Stock, shall be
vested with full voting right, while those shares referred to above as Preferred Stock, shall not
be vested with any voting rights whatsoever.
Notwithstanding the foregoing these Articles of Incorporation (the Articles) hereby vest the
Board of Directors of the Corporation (the Board) with such authority as may be necessary to
prescribe such classes, series and numbers of each class or series of stock. In addition the Board
is hereby vested with such authority as may be necessary to prescribe the voting powers,
designations, preferences, limitations, restrictions and relative, participating, optional and
other special rights, if any, of each class or series of stock created. All classes of stock may
be issued from time to time without action by the stockholders.
SECTION 4.02. NO PREEMPTIVE RIGHTS. Unless otherwise determined by the Board, holders of the
stock of the Corporation shall not have any preference, preemptive right, or right of subscription
to acquire any shares of the Corporation authorized, issued or sold, or to be authorized, issued or
sold, and convertible into shares of the Corporation, nor to any right of subscription thereto.
SECTION 4.03. NON-ASSESSABILITY OF SHARES. The stock of the Corporation, after the amount of
the subscription price has been paid, in money, property or services, as the directors shall
determine, shall not be subject to assessment to pay the debts of the Corporation, nor for any
other purpose, and no stock issued as fully paid shall ever be assessable or assessed, and the
Articles shall not be amended in this particular.
ARTICLE V
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The business and affairs of the Corporation shall be managed by, or under the direction of,
the Board. In addition to the powers and authority expressly conferred upon the Board by statute,
these Articles or the Corporations Bylaws (Bylaws), the Board is hereby empowered to exercise
all such powers and do all such acts and things as may be exercised or done by the Corporation,
subject, nevertheless, to the provisions of the Nevada General Corporation Law (the NGCL), these
Articles and any Bylaws adopted by the stockholders; provided, however, that no Bylaws hereafter
adopted by the stockholders shall invalidate any prior act of the Board that would have been valid
if such Bylaws had not been adopted.
ARTICLE VI
PERIOD OF DURATION
The Corporation is to have a perpetual existence.
ARTICLE VII
DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS LIABILITY
A director or officer of the corporation shall not be personally liable to this Corporation or
any of its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a direct or officer,
as applicable, except to the extent such exemption from liability or limitation thereof is not
permitted by the NGCL as the same exists or hereafter may be amended. If the NGCL is hereafter
amended to authorize corporate action further limiting or eliminating the liability of directors or
officers, then the liability of a director or officer to the Corporation or its stockholders shall
be limited or eliminated to the fullest extent permitted by the NGCL, as so amended. This Article
shall not eliminate or limit the liability of a director or officer for (i) acts or omissions which
involve intentional misconduct, fraud or a knowing violation of law or (ii) the unlawful payment of
distributions. Any repeal or modification of this Article by the stockholders of the Corporation
or by changes in law shall be prospective only, and shall not adversely affect any limitation on
the personal liability of a director or officer of the Corporation for acts or omissions prior to
such repeal or modification.
ARTICLE VIII
INDEMNIFICATION
Each person who is or was made a party to, or is threatened to be made a party to, or is
otherwise involved in any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether
civil, criminal, administrative or investigative (hereinafter a proceeding) by reason of the fact
that he or she is or was a director or officer of the Corporation or, while a director or officer
of the Corporation, is or was serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer,
employee or agent of another corporation or of a partnership, joint venture, trust or other
enterprise, including service with respect to an employee benefit plan (hereinafter a Covered
Person), whether the basis of such proceeding is alleged action in an official capacity as a
director, officer, employee or agent, or in any other capacity while serving as a director,
officer, employee or agent, shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Corporation to the
fullest extent authorized or permitted by applicable law, as the same exists or may hereafter be
amended, against all expense, liability and loss (including, without limitation, attorneys fees,
judgments, fines, ERISA excise taxes and penalties and amounts paid in settlement) reasonably
incurred or suffered by such Covered Person in connection with such proceeding, and 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 his or her heirs, executors and administrators; provided,
however, that, except for proceedings to enforce rights to indemnification, the Corporation shall
indemnify a Covered Person in connection with a proceeding (or part thereof) initiated by such
Covered Person only if such proceeding (or part thereof) was authorized by the Board. The right to
indemnification conferred by this Article VIII shall be a contract right and shall include
the right to be paid by the Corporation the expenses incurred in defending or otherwise
participating in any such proceeding in advance of its final disposition.
Without limiting the application of the foregoing, the stockholders or Board may adopt Bylaws
from time to time with respect to indemnification, to provide at all times the fullest
indemnification permitted by the laws of the State of Nevada, and may cause the Corporation to
purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of any person who is or was a director or officer of the
Corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the Corporation as director or officer of any
Corporation, or as its representative in a partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprises
against any liability asserted against such person and incurred in any such capacity or arising out
of such status, whether or not the Corporation would have the power to indemnify such person.
The indemnification provided in this Article VIII 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 person.
The rights conferred on any Covered Person by this Article VIII shall not be exclusive
of any other rights which any Covered Person may have or hereafter acquire under law, these
Articles, the Bylaws, an agreement, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors, or otherwise.
Any repeal or amendment of this Article VIII by the stockholders of the Corporation or
by changes in law, or the adoption of any other provision of these Articles inconsistent with this
Article VIII, will, unless otherwise required by law, be prospective only (except to the
extent such amendment or change in law permits the Corporation to provide broader indemnification
rights on a retroactive basis than permitted prior thereto), and will not in any way diminish or
adversely affect any right or protection existing at the time of such repeal or amendment or
adoption of such inconsistent provision in respect of any act or omission occurring prior to such
repeal or amendment or adoption of such inconsistent provision.
This Article VIII shall not limit the right of the Corporation, to the extent and in
the manner authorized or permitted by law, to indemnify and to advance expenses to persons other
than Covered Persons.
ARTICLE IX
AMENDMENTS OF ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION
Subject at all times to the express provisions of Section 4.03 which cannot be
amended, the Corporation reserves the right to amend, alter, change, or repeal any provision
contained in these Articles, in the manner now or hereafter prescribed by the NGCL or by these
Articles, and all rights, preferences and privileges conferred upon the
stockholders, directors, officers or any other persons by and pursuant to these Articles in
their present form or as hereafter amended are granted subject to right reserved in this Article.
ARTICLE X
POWERS OF DIRECTORS
In furtherance and not in limitation of the powers conferred by the NGCL, the Board is
expressly authorized:
|
1. |
|
To make, alter or repeal the Bylaws of the Corporation. |
|
|
2. |
|
To authorize and cause to be executed mortgages and liens, with or without
limit as to amount, upon the real and personal property of the Corporation; |
|
|
3. |
|
To authorize the guaranty by the Corporation of securities, evidences of
indebtedness and obligation of other person, Corporations and business entities; |
|
|
4. |
|
To set apart out of any of the funds of the Corporation available for
distributions a reserve or reserves for any proper purpose and to abolish any such
reserve; |
|
|
5. |
|
By resolution, to designate one or more committees, each committee to consist
of at least one director of the Corporation, which, to the extent provided in the
resolution or in the Bylaws of the Corporation, shall have and may exercise the powers
of the Board 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.
Such committee or committees shall have such name or names as may be stated in the
Bylaws or as may be determined from time to time by resolution adopted by the Board;
and |
|
|
6. |
|
To authorize the Corporation by its officers or agents to exercise all such
powers and to do all such acts and things as may be exercised or done by the
Corporation, except and to the extent that any such statue shall require action by the
stockholders of the Corporation with regard to the exercising of any such power or the
doing of any such act or thing. |
In addition to the powers and authorities hereinbefore or by statue expressly conferred upon
them, the Board may exercise all such powers and do all such acts and things as may be exercised or
done by the Corporation, except as otherwise provided herein and by law.
[Signature Page Follows]
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Corporation has caused these Articles of Amendment to the Articles of
Incorporation of Foothills Resources, Inc., as amended, to be executed as of the [ ] day of
[ ] 2008.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
FOOTHILLS RESOURCES, INC. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
By: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name:
|
|
Dennis B. Tower
|
|
|
|
|
Title:
|
|
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive
Officer |
|
|
Exhibit B
AMENDED AND RESTATED
BYLAWS
OF
FOOTHILLS RESOURCES, INC.
ARTICLE I
OFFICES
Section 1.1. Registered Office. The registered office of the Corporation within the State of
Nevada shall be located at either (a) the principal place of business of the Corporation in the
State of Nevada or (b) the office of the corporation or individual acting as the Corporations
registered agent in Nevada.
Section 1.2. Additional Offices. The Corporation may, in addition to its registered office in the
State of Nevada, have such other offices and places of business, both within and outside the State
of Nevada, as the Board of Directors of the Corporation (the Board) may from time to time
determine or as the business and affairs of the Corporation may require.
ARTICLE II
STOCKHOLDERS MEETINGS
Section 2.1. Annual Meetings. The annual meeting of stockholders shall be held at such place and
time and on such date as shall be determined by the Board and stated in the notice of the meeting,
provided that the Board may in its sole discretion determine that the meeting shall not be held at
any place, but may instead be held solely by means of remote communication pursuant to Section
9.5(a). At each annual meeting, the stockholders shall elect directors of the Corporation and
may transact any other business as may properly be brought before the meeting.
Section 2.2. Special Meetings. Except as otherwise required by applicable law or provided in the
Corporations Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation, as the same may be amended or
restated from time to time (the Articles of Incorporation), special meetings of stockholders, for
any purpose or purposes, may be called only by the Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer,
the President or the Board pursuant to a resolution adopted by a majority of the Whole Board (as
defined below). Special meetings may also be called by stockholders entitled to cast not less than
ten percent of the votes at the meeting being called. Special meetings of stockholders shall be
held at such place and time and on such date as shall be determined by the Board and stated in the
Corporations notice of the meeting, provided that the Board may in its sole discretion determine
that the meeting shall not be held at any place, but may instead be held solely by means of remote
communication pursuant to Section 9.5(a). Whole Board shall mean the total number of
directors the Corporation would have if there were no vacancies.
Section 2.3. Notices. Notice of each stockholders meeting stating the place, if any, date, and
time of the meeting, and the means of remote communication, if any, by which stockholders and
proxyholders may be deemed to be present in person and vote at such meeting, shall be given in the
manner permitted by Section 9.3 to each stockholder entitled to vote thereat by the
Corporation not less than 10 nor more than 60 days before the date of the meeting. If said notice
is for a stockholders meeting other than an annual meeting, it shall in addition state the purpose
or purposes for which the
meeting is called, and the business transacted at such meeting shall be limited to the matters so
stated in the Corporations notice of meeting (or any supplement thereto). Any meeting of
stockholders as to which notice has been given may be postponed, and any special meeting of
stockholders as to which notice has been given may be cancelled, by the Board upon public
announcement (as defined in Section 2.7(c)) given before the date previously scheduled for
such meeting.
Section 2.4. Quorum. Except as otherwise provided by applicable law, the Articles of Incorporation
or these Bylaws, the presence, in person or by proxy, at a stockholders meeting of the holders of
shares of outstanding capital stock of the Corporation representing a majority of the voting power
of all outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation entitled to vote at such meeting
shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at such meeting, except that when
specified business is to be voted on by a class or series of stock voting as a class, the holders
of shares representing a majority of the voting power of the outstanding shares of such class or
series shall constitute a quorum of such class or series for the transaction of such business. If
a quorum shall not be present or represented by proxy at any meeting of the stockholders, the
chairman of the meeting may adjourn the meeting from time to time in the manner provided in
Section 2.6 until a quorum shall attend. The stockholders present at a duly convened
meeting may continue to transact business until adjournment, notwithstanding the withdrawal of
enough stockholders to leave less than a quorum. Shares of its own stock belonging to the
Corporation or to another corporation, if a majority of the voting power of the shares entitled to
vote in the election of directors of such other corporation is held, directly or indirectly, by the
Corporation, shall neither be entitled to vote nor be counted for quorum purposes; provided,
however, that the foregoing shall not limit the right of the Corporation or any such other
corporation to vote shares held by it in a fiduciary capacity.
Section 2.5. Voting of Shares.
(a) Voting Lists. The Secretary shall prepare, or shall cause the officer or agent
who has charge of the stock ledger of the Corporation to prepare, at least 10 days before every
meeting of stockholders, a complete list of the stockholders of record entitled to vote thereat
arranged in alphabetical order and showing the address and the number of shares registered in the
name of each stockholder. Nothing contained in this Section 2.5(a) shall require the
Corporation to include electronic mail addresses or other electronic contact information on such
list. 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 10 days prior to the meeting:
(i) on a reasonably accessible electronic network, provided that the information required to gain
access to such list is provided with the notice of the meeting, or (ii) during ordinary business
hours, at the principal place of business of the Corporation. In the event that the Corporation
determines to make the list available on an electronic network, the Corporation may take reasonable
steps to ensure that such information is available only to stockholders of the Corporation. If the
meeting is to be held at a place, then the list shall 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.
If a meeting of stockholders is to be held solely by means of remote communication as permitted by
Section 9.5(a), the list shall be open to the examination of any stockholder during the
whole time of the meeting on a reasonably accessible electronic network, and the information
required to access such list shall be provided with the notice of meeting. The stock ledger shall
be the only evidence as to who are the stockholders entitled to examine the list required by this
Section 2.5(a) or to vote in person or by proxy at any meeting of stockholders.
(b) Manner of Voting. At any stockholders meeting, every stockholder entitled to vote
may vote in person or by proxy. If authorized by the Board, the voting by stockholders or
proxyholders at any meeting conducted by remote communication may be effected by a ballot submitted
by electronic transmission (as defined in Section 9.3), provided that any such electronic
transmission must either set forth or be submitted with information from which the Corporation can
determine that the electronic transmission was authorized by the stockholder or proxyholder. The
Board, in its discretion, or the chairman of the meeting of stockholders, in such persons
discretion, may require that any votes cast at such meeting shall be cast by written ballot.
(c) Proxies. Each stockholder entitled to vote at a meeting of stockholders or to
express consent or dissent to corporate action in writing without a meeting may authorize another
person or persons to act for such stockholder by proxy, but no such proxy shall be voted or acted
upon after six months from its date, unless the proxy provides for a longer period, provided such
longer period may not exceed seven years from its date. Proxies need not be filed with the
Secretary of the Corporation until the meeting is called to order, but shall be filed with the
Secretary before being voted. Without limiting the manner in which a stockholder may authorize
another person or persons to act for such stockholder as proxy, either of the following shall
constitute a valid means by which a stockholder may grant such authority.
(i) A stockholder may execute a writing authorizing another person or persons to act
for such stockholder as proxy. Execution may be accomplished by the stockholder or such
stockholders authorized officer, director, employee or agent signing such writing or
causing such persons signature to be affixed to such writing by any reasonable means,
including, but not limited to, by facsimile signature.
(ii) A stockholder may authorize another person or persons to act for such stockholder
as proxy by transmitting or authorizing the transmission of an electronic transmission to
the person who will be the holder of the proxy or to a proxy solicitation firm, proxy
support service organization or like agent duly authorized by the person who will be the
holder of the proxy to receive such transmission, provided that any such electronic
transmission must either set forth or be submitted with information from which it can be
determined that the electronic transmission was authorized by the stockholder.
Any copy, facsimile telecommunication or other reliable reproduction of the writing or transmission
authorizing another person or persons to act as proxy for a stockholder may be substituted or used
in lieu of the original writing or transmission for any and all purposes for which the original
writing or transmission could be used; provided that such copy, facsimile telecommunication or
other reproduction shall be a complete reproduction of the entire original writing or transmission.
(d) Required Vote. Subject to the rights of the holders of one or more series of
preferred stock of the Corporation (Preferred Stock), voting separately by class or series, to
elect directors pursuant to the terms of one or more series of Preferred Stock, the election of
directors shall be determined by a plurality of the votes cast by the stockholders present in
person or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote thereon. All other matters
shall be determined by the vote of a majority of the votes cast by the stockholders present in
person or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote thereon, unless the matter is
one upon which, by applicable law, the Articles of Incorporation, these Bylaws or applicable stock
exchange rules, a different vote is required, in which case such provision shall govern and control
the decision of such matter.
(e) Inspectors of Election. The Board may, and shall if required by law, in advance
of any meeting of stockholders, appoint one or more persons as inspectors of election, who may be
employees of the Corporation or otherwise serve the Corporation in other capacities, to act at such
meeting of stockholders or any adjournment thereof and to make a written report thereof. The Board
may appoint one or more persons as alternate inspectors to replace any inspector who fails to act.
If no inspectors of election or alternates are appointed by the Board, the chairman of the meeting
shall appoint one or more inspectors to act at the meeting. Each inspector, before discharging his
or her duties, shall take and sign an oath faithfully to execute the duties of inspector with
strict impartiality and according to the best of his or her ability. The inspectors shall
ascertain and report the number of outstanding shares and the voting power of each; determine the
number of shares present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting and the validity of
proxies and ballots; count all votes and ballots and report the results; determine and retain for a
reasonable period a record of the disposition of any challenges made to any determination by the
inspectors; and certify their determination of the number of shares represented at the meeting and
their count of all votes and ballots. No person who is a candidate for an office at an election
may serve as an inspector at such election. Each report of an inspector shall be in writing and
signed by the inspector or by a majority of them if there is more than one inspector acting at such
meeting. If there is more than one inspector, the report of a majority shall be the report of the
inspectors.
Section 2.6. Adjournments. Any meeting of stockholders, annual or special, may be adjourned by the chairman of the meeting,
from time to time, whether or not there is a quorum, to reconvene at the same or some other place.
Notice need not be given of any such adjourned meeting if the date, time, place, if any, thereof,
and the means of remote communication, if any, by which stockholders and proxyholders may be deemed
to be present in person and vote at such adjourned meeting are announced at the meeting at which
the adjournment is taken. At the adjourned meeting the stockholders, or the holders of any class
or series of stock entitled to vote separately as a class, as the case may be, may transact any
business that might have been transacted at the original meeting. If the adjournment is for more
than 30 days, or if after the adjournment a new record date is fixed for the adjourned meeting,
notice of the adjourned meeting shall be given to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at
the meeting.
Section 2.7. Advance Notice for Business.
(a) Annual Meetings of Stockholders. No business may be transacted at an annual
meeting of stockholders, other than business that is either (i) specified in the Corporations
notice of meeting (or any supplement thereto) given by or at the direction of the Board, (ii)
otherwise properly brought before the annual meeting by or at the direction of the Board or (iii)
otherwise properly brought before the annual meeting by any stockholder of the Corporation (x) who
is a stockholder of record on the date of the giving of the notice provided for in this Section
2.7(a) and on the record date for the determination of stockholders entitled to vote at such
annual meeting and (y) who complies with the notice procedures set forth in this Section
2.7(a). Notwithstanding anything in this Section 2.7(a) to the contrary, only persons
nominated for election as a director at an annual meeting pursuant to Section 3.2 will be
considered for election at such meeting.
(i) In addition to any other applicable requirements, for business (other than
nominations) to be properly brought before an annual meeting by a stockholder, such
stockholder must have given timely notice thereof in proper written form to the Secretary of
the Corporation and such business must otherwise be a proper matter for stockholder action.
Subject to Section 2.7(a)(iii), a stockholders notice to the Secretary with respect
to such business, to be timely, must be received by the Secretary at the principal executive
offices of the Corporation not later than the close of business on the 90th day nor earlier
than the opening of business on the 120th day before the anniversary date of the immediately
preceding annual meeting of stockholders; provided, however, that in the event that the
annual meeting is called for a date that is not within 45 days before or after such
anniversary date, notice by the stockholder to be timely must be so received not earlier
than the opening of business on the 120th day before the meeting and not later than the
later of (x) the close of business on the 90th day before the meeting or (y) the close of
business on the 10th day following the day on which public announcement of the date of the
annual meeting is first made by the Corporation. The public announcement of an adjournment
of an annual meeting shall not commence a new time period for the giving of a stockholders
notice as described in this Section 2.7(a).
(ii) To be in proper written form, a stockholders notice to the Secretary with respect
to any business (other than nominations) must set forth as to each such matter such
stockholder proposes to bring before the annual meeting (A) a brief description of the
business desired to be brought before the annual meeting, the text of the proposal or
business (including the text of any resolutions proposed for consideration and in the event
such business includes a proposal to amend these Bylaws, the language of the proposed
amendment) and the reasons for conducting such business at the annual meeting, (B) the name
and record address of such stockholder and the name and address of the beneficial owner, if
any, on whose behalf the proposal is made, (C) the class or series and number of shares of
capital stock of the Corporation that are owned beneficially and of record by such
stockholder and by the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the proposal is made, (D) a
description of all arrangements or understandings between such stockholder and the
beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the proposal is made and any other person or
persons (including their names) in connection with the proposal of such business by such
stockholder, (E) any material interest of such stockholder and the beneficial owner, if any,
on whose behalf the proposal is made in such business and (F) a representation that such
stockholder intends to appear in person or by proxy at the annual meeting to bring such
business before the meeting.
(iii) The foregoing notice requirements of this Section 2.7(a) shall be deemed
satisfied by a stockholder as to any proposal (other than nominations) if the stockholder
has notified the Corporation of such stockholders intention to present such proposal at an
annual meeting in compliance with Rule 14a-8 (or any successor thereof) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act), and such stockholder has complied
with the requirements of such Rule for inclusion of such proposal in a proxy statement
prepared by the Corporation to solicit proxies for such annual meeting. No business shall
be conducted at the annual meeting of stockholders except business brought before the annual
meeting in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Section 2.7(a),
provided, however, that once business has been properly brought before the annual meeting in
accordance with such procedures, nothing in this Section 2.7(a) shall be deemed to
preclude discussion by any stockholder of any such business. If the Board or the chairman
of the annual meeting determines that any stockholder proposal was not made in accordance
with the provisions of this Section 2.7(a) or that the information provided in a
stockholders notice does not satisfy the information requirements of this Section
2.7(a), such proposal shall not be presented for action at the annual meeting.
Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this
Section 2.7(a), if the stockholder
(or a qualified representative of the stockholder) does not appear at the annual meeting of
stockholders of the Corporation to present the proposed business, such proposed business
shall not be transacted, notwithstanding that proxies in respect of such matter may have
been received by the Corporation.
(iv) In addition to the provisions of this Section 2.7(a), a stockholder shall
also comply with all applicable requirements of the Exchange Act and the rules and
regulations thereunder with respect to the matters set forth herein. Nothing in this
Section 2.7(a) shall be deemed to affect any rights of stockholders to request
inclusion of proposals in the Corporations proxy statement pursuant to Rule 14a-8 under the
Exchange Act.
(b) Special Meetings of Stockholders. Only such business shall be conducted at a
special meeting of stockholders as shall have been brought before the meeting pursuant to the
Corporations notice of meeting. Nominations of persons for election to the Board may be made at a
special meeting of stockholders at which directors are to be elected pursuant to the Corporations
notice of meeting only pursuant to Section 3.2.
(c) Public Announcement. For purposes of these Bylaws, public announcement shall
mean disclosure in a press release reported by the Dow Jones News Service, Associated Press or
comparable national news service or in a document publicly filed by the Corporation with the
Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Sections 13, 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act.
Section 2.8. Conduct of Meetings. The chairman of each annual and special meeting of stockholders
shall be the Chairman of the Board or, in the absence (or inability or refusal to act) of the
Chairman of the Board, the Chief Executive Officer (if he or she shall be a director) or, in the
absence (or inability or refusal to act of the Chief Executive Officer or if the Chief Executive
Officer is not a director, the President (if he or she shall be a director) or, in the absence (or
inability or refusal to act) of the President or if the President is not a director, such other
person as shall be appointed by the Board. The date and time of the opening and the closing of the
polls for each matter upon which the stockholders will vote at a meeting shall be announced at the
meeting by the chairman of the meeting. The Board may adopt such rules and regulations for the
conduct of the meeting of stockholders as it shall deem appropriate. Except to the extent
inconsistent with these Bylaws or such rules and regulations as adopted by the Board, the chairman
of any meeting of stockholders shall have the right and authority to convene and to adjourn the
meeting, to prescribe such rules, regulations and procedures and to do all such acts as, in the
judgment of such chairman, are appropriate for the proper conduct of the meeting. Such rules,
regulations or procedures, whether adopted by the Board or prescribed by the chairman of the
meeting, may include, without limitation, the following: (a) the establishment of an agenda or
order of business for the meeting; (b) rules and procedures for maintaining order at the meeting
and the safety of those present; (c) limitations on attendance at or participation in the meeting
to stockholders of record of the Corporation, their duly authorized and constituted proxies or such
other persons as the chairman of the meeting shall determine; (d) restrictions on entry to the
meeting after the time fixed for the commencement thereof; and (e) limitations on the time allotted
to questions or comments by participants. Unless and to the extent determined by the Board or the
chairman of the meeting, meetings of stockholders shall not be required to be held in accordance
with
the rules of parliamentary procedure. The secretary of each annual and special meeting of
stockholders shall be the Secretary or, in the absence (or inability or refusal to act) of the
Secretary, an Assistant Secretary so appointed to act by the chairman of the meeting. In the
absence (or inability or refusal to act) of the Secretary and all Assistant Secretaries, the
chairman of the meeting may appoint any person to act as secretary of the meeting.
Section 2.9. Consents of Stockholders in Lieu of Meeting. Any action required or permitted to be
taken by the stockholders of the Corporation at a duly called annual or special meeting of the
stockholders of the Corporation 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 at least a majority of the voting power of the Corporation,
unless a different proportion of voting power is required for such action at a meeting in which
case that proportion of written consents shall be required and shall be delivered to the
Corporation to its registered office in the State of Nevada, the Corporations principal place of
business, or the Secretary of the Corporation. Every written consent shall bear the date of
signature of each stockholder who signs the consent and no written consent shall be effective to
take the corporate action referred to therein unless, within 60 days of the date the earliest dated
consent is delivered to the Corporation, a written consent or consents signed by a
sufficient number of holders to take such action are delivered to the Corporation by delivery to
the Corporations registered office in the State of Nevada, the Corporations principal place of
business, or the Secretary. Delivery made to the Corporations registered office shall be by hand
or by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested. An electronic transmission
consenting to the action to be taken and transmitted by a stockholder, proxyholder or a person or
persons authorized to act for a stockholder or proxyholder shall be deemed to be written, signed
and dated for purposes hereof if such electronic transmission sets forth or is delivered with
information from which the Corporation can determine that such transmission was transmitted by a
stockholder or proxyholder (or by a person authorized to act for a stockholder or proxyholder) and
the date on which such stockholder, proxyholder or authorized person transmitted such transmission.
The date on which such electronic transmission is transmitted shall be deemed to be the date on
which such consent was signed. No consent given by electronic transmission shall be deemed to have
been delivered until such consent is reproduced in paper form and delivered to the Corporation by
delivery either to the Corporations registered office in the State of Nevada, the Corporations
principal place of business, or the Secretary of the Corporation. Delivery made to the
Corporations registered office shall be made by hand or by certified or registered mail, return
receipt requested. Notwithstanding the limitations on delivery in the previous sentence, consents
given by electronic transmission may be otherwise delivered to the Corporations principal place of
business or to the Secretary if, to the extent, and in the manner provided by resolution of the
Board. Any copy, facsimile or other reliable reproduction of a consent in writing may be
substituted or used in lieu of the original writing for any and all purposes for which the original
writing could be used; provided that such copy, facsimile or other reproduction shall be a complete
reproduction of the entire original writing.
ARTICLE III
DIRECTORS
Section 3.1. Powers. The business and affairs of the Corporation shall be managed by or under the
direction of the Board, which may exercise all such powers of the Corporation and do all such
lawful acts and things as are not by statute or by the Articles of Incorporation or by these Bylaws
required to be exercised or done by the stockholders. Directors need not be stockholders or
residents of the State of Nevada.
Section 3.2. Number. The number of directors of the Corporation shall be fixed from time to
time exclusively by the Board pursuant to a resolution adopted by a majority of the Whole Board.
Until otherwise fixed by resolution of the Board, the Board shall consist of seven (7) directors.
Each director shall serve on the Board for a one (1) year term.
Section 3.3. Term. A director shall hold office until the annual meeting for the year in which his or her term
expires and until his or her successor has been elected and qualified, subject, however, to such
directors earlier death, resignation, retirement, disqualification or removal.
Section 3.4. Advance Notice for Nomination of Directors.
(a) Only persons who are nominated in accordance with the following procedures shall be
eligible for election as directors by the stockholders of the Corporation, except as may be
otherwise provided by the terms of one or more series of Preferred Stock with respect to the rights
of holders of one or more series of Preferred Stock to elect directors. Nominations of persons for
election to the Board at any annual meeting of stockholders, or at any special meeting of
stockholders called for the purpose of electing directors as set forth in the Corporations notice
of such special meeting, may be made (i) by or at the direction of the Board or (ii) by any
stockholder of the Corporation (x) who is a stockholder of record on the date of the giving of the
notice provided for in this Section 3.4 and on the record date for the determination of
stockholders entitled to vote at such meeting and (y) who complies with the notice procedures set
forth in this Section 3.4.
(b) In addition to any other applicable requirements, for a nomination to be made by a
stockholder, such stockholder must have given timely notice thereof in proper written form to the
Secretary of the Corporation. To be timely, a stockholders notice to the Secretary must be
received by the Secretary at the principal executive offices of the Corporation (i) in the case of
an annual meeting, not later than the close of business on the 90th day nor earlier than the
opening of business on the 120th day before the anniversary date of the immediately preceding
annual meeting of stockholders; provided, however, that in the event that the annual meeting is
called for a date that is not within 45 days before or after such anniversary date, notice by the
stockholder to be timely must be
so received not earlier than the opening of business on the 120th day before the meeting and
not later than the later of (x) the close of business on the 90th day before the meeting or (y) the
close of business on the 10th day following the day on which public announcement of the date of the
annual meeting was first made by the Corporation; and (ii) in the case of a special meeting of
stockholders called for the purpose of electing directors, not later than the close of business on
the 10th day following the day on which public announcement of the date of the special meeting is
first made by the Corporation. In no event shall the public announcement of an adjournment of an
annual meeting or special meeting commence a new time period for the giving of a stockholders
notice as described in this Section 3.4.
(c) Notwithstanding anything in paragraph (b) to the contrary, in the event that the number of
directors to be elected to the Board at an annual meeting is greater than the number of directors
whose terms expire on the date of the annual meeting and there is no public announcement by the
Corporation naming all of the nominees for the additional directors to be elected or specifying the
size of the increased Board before the close of business on the 90th day prior to the anniversary
date of the immediately preceding annual meeting of stockholders, a stockholders notice required
by this Section 3.4 shall also be considered timely, but only with respect to nominees for
the additional directorships created by such increase that are to be filled by election at such
annual meeting, if it shall be received by the Secretary at the principal executive offices of the
Corporation not later than the close of business on the 10th day following the date on which such
public announcement was first made by the Corporation.
(d) To be in proper written form, a stockholders notice to the Secretary must set forth
(i) as to each person whom the stockholder proposes to nominate for election as a director (A) the
name, age, business address and residence address of the person, (B) the principal occupation or
employment of the person, (C) the class or series and number of shares of capital stock of the
Corporation that are owned beneficially or of record by the person and (D) any other information
relating to the person that would be required to be disclosed in a proxy statement or other filings
required to be made in connection with solicitations of proxies for election of directors pursuant
to Section 14 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder; and (ii) as
to the stockholder giving the notice (A) the name and record address of such stockholder and the
name and address of the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the nomination is made, (B) the
class or series and number of shares of capital stock of the Corporation that are owned
beneficially and of record by such stockholder and the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf
the nomination is made, (C) a description of all arrangements or understandings relating to the
nomination to be made by such stockholder among such stockholder, the beneficial owner, if any, on
whose behalf the nomination is made, each proposed nominee and any other person or persons
(including their names), (D) a representation that such stockholder intends to appear in person or
by proxy at the meeting to nominate the persons named in its notice and (E) any other information
relating to such stockholder and the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the nomination is
made that would be required to be disclosed in a proxy statement or other filings required to be
made in connection with solicitations of proxies for election of directors pursuant to Section 14
of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder. Such notice must be
accompanied by a written consent of each proposed nominee to being named as a nominee and to serve
as a director if elected.
(e) If the Board or the chairman of the meeting of stockholders determines that any nomination
was not made in accordance with the provisions of this Section 3.4, then such nomination
shall not be considered at the meeting in question. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of
this Section 3.4, if the stockholder (or a qualified representative of the stockholder)
does not appear at the meeting of stockholders of the Corporation to present the nomination, such
nomination shall be disregarded, notwithstanding that proxies in respect of such nomination may
have been received by the Corporation.
(f) In addition to the provisions of this Section 3.4, a stockholder shall also comply
with all of the applicable requirements of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations
thereunder with respect to the matters set forth herein. Nothing in this Section 3.4 shall
be deemed to affect any rights of the holders of Preferred Stock to elect directors pursuant to the
Articles of Incorporation or the right of the Board to fill newly created directorships and
vacancies on the Board pursuant to the Articles of Incorporation.
Section 3.5. Compensation. Unless otherwise restricted by the Articles of Incorporation or these
Bylaws, the Board shall have the authority to fix the compensation of directors. The directors may
be reimbursed their expenses, if any, of attendance at each meeting of the Board and may be paid
either a fixed sum for attendance
at each meeting of the Board or other compensation as director. No such payment shall preclude any
director from serving the Corporation in any other capacity and receiving compensation therefor.
Members of committees of the Board may be allowed like compensation and reimbursement of expenses
for service on the committee.
Section 3.6. Newly Created Directorships and Vacancies. Newly created directorships resulting from an increase in the number of directors and any
vacancies on the Board resulting from death, resignation, retirement, disqualification, removal or
other cause may be filled solely by a majority vote of the directors then in office, even if less
than a quorum, or by a sole remaining director (and not by stockholders), and any director so
chosen shall hold office until the annual meeting for the year in which his or her term expires and
until his or her successor has been elected and qualified, subject, however, to such directors
earlier death, resignation, retirement, disqualification or removal.
Section 3.7. Removal. Any or all of the directors may be removed from office at any time but only for cause and only
by the affirmative vote of holders of a majority of the voting power of all then outstanding shares
of capital stock of the Corporation entitled to vote generally in the election of directors, voting
together as a single class.
Section 3.8. Election by Written Ballot. Unless and except to the extent that these Bylaws shall so require, the election of directors
need not be by written ballot.
ARTICLE IV
BOARD MEETINGS
Section 4.1. Annual Meetings. The Board shall meet as soon as practicable after the adjournment of
each annual stockholders meeting at the place of the annual stockholders meeting unless the Board
shall fix another time and place and give notice thereof in the manner required herein for special
meetings of the Board. No notice to the directors shall be necessary to legally convene this
meeting, except as provided in this Section 4.1.
Section 4.2. Regular Meetings. Regularly scheduled, periodic meetings of the Board may be held
without notice at such times, dates and places as shall from time to time be determined by the
Board.
Section 4.3. Special Meetings. Special meetings of the Board (a) may be called by the Chairman of
the Board, Chief Executive Officer or President and (b) shall be called by the Chairman of the
Board, Chief Executive Officer, President or Secretary on the written request of at least a
majority of directors then in office, or the sole director, as the case may be, and shall be held
at such time, date and place as may be determined by the person calling the meeting or, if called
upon the request of directors or the sole director, as specified in such written request. Notice
of each special meeting of the Board shall be given, as provided in Section 9.3, to each
director (i) at least 24 hours before the meeting if such notice is oral notice given personally or
by telephone or written notice given by hand delivery or by means of a form of electronic
transmission and delivery; (ii) at least two days before the meeting if such notice is sent by a
nationally recognized overnight delivery service; and (iii) at least five days before the meeting
if such notice is sent through the United States mail. If the Secretary shall fail or refuse to
give such notice, then the notice may be given by the officer who called the meeting or the
directors who requested the meeting. Any and all business that may be transacted at a regular
meeting of the Board may be transacted at a special meeting. Except as may be otherwise expressly
provided by applicable law, the Articles of Incorporation, or these Bylaws, neither the business to
be transacted at, nor the purpose of, any special meeting need be specified in the notice or waiver
of notice of such meeting. A special meeting may be held at any time without notice if all the
directors are present or if those not present waive notice of the meeting in accordance with
Section 9.4.
Section 4.4. Quorum; Required Vote. A majority of the Whole Board shall constitute a quorum for
the transaction of business at any meeting of the Board, 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, except as may be
otherwise specifically provided by applicable law, the Articles of Incorporation or these Bylaws.
If a quorum shall not be present at any meeting, a majority of the directors present may adjourn
the meeting from time to time, without notice other than announcement at the meeting, until a
quorum is present.
Section 4.5. Consent In Lieu of Meeting. Unless otherwise restricted by the Articles of
Incorporation or these Bylaws, any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of the
Board or any committee thereof may be taken without a meeting if all members of the Board or
committee, as the case may be, consent thereto in writing or by electronic transmission, and the
writing or writings or electronic transmission or transmissions (or paper reproductions thereof)
are filed with the minutes of proceedings of the Board or committee. Such filing shall be in paper
form if the minutes are maintained in paper form and shall be in electronic form if the minutes are
maintained in electronic form.
Section 4.6. Organization. The chairman of each meeting of the Board shall be the Chairman of the
Board or, in the absence (or inability or refusal to act) of the Chairman of the Board, the Chief
Executive Officer (if he or she shall be a director) or, in the absence (or inability or refusal to
act) of the Chief Executive Officer or if the Chief Executive Officer is not a director, the
President (if he or she shall be a director) or in the absence (or inability or refusal to act) of
the President or if the President is not a director, a chairman elected from the directors present.
The Secretary shall act as secretary of all meetings of the Board. In the absence (or inability
or refusal to act) of the Secretary, an Assistant Secretary shall perform the duties of the
Secretary at such meeting. In the absence (or inability or refusal to act) of the Secretary and
all Assistant Secretaries, the chairman of the meeting may appoint any person to act as secretary
of the meeting.
ARTICLE V
COMMITTEES OF DIRECTORS
Section 5.1. Establishment. The Board by resolution passed by a majority of the Whole Board may
designate one or more committees, each committee to consist of one or more of the directors of the
Corporation. Each committee shall keep regular minutes of its meetings and report the same to the
Board when required. The Board shall have the power at any time to fill vacancies in, to change
the membership of, or to dissolve any such committee.
Section 5.2. Available Powers. Any committee established pursuant to Section 5.1 hereof,
to the extent permitted by applicable law and by resolution of the Board, shall have and may
exercise all of the powers and authority of the Board 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 that
may require it.
Section 5.3. Alternate Members. The Board may designate one or more directors as alternate members
of any committee, who may replace any absent or disqualified member at any meeting of such
committee.
Section 5.4. Procedures. Unless the Board otherwise provides, the time, date, place, if any, and
notice of meetings of a committee shall be determined by such committee. At meetings of a
committee, a majority of the number of members of the committee (but not including any alternate
member, unless such alternate member has replaced any absent or disqualified member at the time of,
or in connection with, such meeting) shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.
The act of a majority of the members present at any meeting at which a quorum is present shall be
the act of the committee, except as otherwise specifically provided by applicable law, the Articles
of Incorporation, these Bylaws or the Board. If a quorum is not present at a meeting of a
committee, the members present may adjourn the meeting from time to time, without notice other than
an announcement at the meeting, until a quorum is present. Unless the Board otherwise provides and
except as provided in these Bylaws, each committee designated by the Board may make, alter, amend
and repeal rules for the conduct of its business. In the absence of such rules each committee
shall conduct its business in the same manner as the Board is authorized to conduct its business
pursuant to Article III and Article IV of these Bylaws.
ARTICLE VI
OFFICERS
Section 6.1. Officers. The officers of the Corporation elected by the Board shall be a Chairman of
the Board, a Chief Executive Officer, a President, a Treasurer, a Secretary and such other officers
(including without limitation a Chief Financial Officer, Vice Presidents, Assistant Secretaries and
Assistant Treasurers) as the Board from time to time may determine. Officers elected by the Board
shall each have such powers and duties as generally pertain to their respective offices, subject to
the specific provisions of this Article VI. Such officers shall also have
such powers and duties as from time to time may be conferred by the Board. The Chairman of the
Board, Chief Executive Officer or President may also appoint such other officers (including without
limitation one or more Vice Presidents and Controllers) as may be necessary or desirable for the
conduct of the business of the Corporation. Such other officers shall have such powers and duties
and shall hold their offices for such terms as may be provided in these Bylaws or as may be
prescribed by the Board or, if such officer has been appointed by the Chairman of the Board, Chief
Executive Officer or President, as may be prescribed by the appointing officer.
(a) Chairman of the Board. The Chairman of the Board shall preside when present at
all meetings of the stockholders and the Board. The Chairman of the Board shall advise and counsel
the Chief Executive Officer and other officers and shall exercise such powers and perform such
duties as shall be assigned to or required of the Chairman of the Board from time to time by the
Board or these Bylaws.
(b) Chief Executive Officer. The Chief Executive Officer shall be the chief executive
officer of the Corporation, shall have general supervision of the affairs of the Corporation and
general control of all of its business subject to the ultimate authority of the Board, and shall be
responsible for the execution of the policies of the Board. In the absence (or inability or
refusal to act) of the Chairman of the Board, the Chief Executive Officer (if he or she shall be a
director) shall preside when present at all meetings of the stockholders and the Board.
(c) President. The President shall be the chief operating officer of the Corporation,
shall have general management and control of the day-to-day business operations of the Corporation
and shall report to the Board. The President shall put into operation the business policies of the
Corporation as determined by the Chief Executive Officer and the Board. The President shall make
recommendations to the Chief Executive Officer on all operational matters that would normally be
reserved for the final executive responsibility of the Chief Executive Officer. In the absence (or
inability or refusal to act) of the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, the
President (if he or she shall be a director) shall preside when present at all meetings of the
stockholders and the Board.
(d) Vice Presidents. In the absence (or inability or refusal to act) of the
President, the Vice President (or in the event there be more than one Vice President, the Vice
Presidents in the order designated by the Board) shall perform the duties and have the powers of
the President. Any one or more of the Vice Presidents may be given an additional designation of
rank or function.
(e) Secretary.
(i) The Secretary shall attend all meetings of the stockholders, the Board and (as
required) committees of the Board and shall record the proceedings of such meetings in books
to be kept for that purpose. The Secretary shall give, or cause to be given, notice of all
meetings of the stockholders and special meetings of the Board and shall perform such other
duties as may be prescribed by the Board, the Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer
or the President. The Secretary shall have custody of the corporate seal of the Corporation
and the Secretary, or any Assistant Secretary, shall have authority to affix the same to any
instrument requiring it, and when so affixed, it may be attested by his or her signature or
by the signature of such Assistant Secretary. The Board may give general authority to any
other officer to affix the seal of the Corporation and to attest the affixing thereof by his
or her signature.
(ii) The Secretary shall keep, or cause to be kept, at the principal executive office
of the Corporation or at the office of the Corporations transfer agent or registrar, if one
has been appointed, a stock ledger, or duplicate stock ledger, showing the names of the
stockholders and their addresses, the number and classes of shares held by each and, with
respect to certificated shares, the number and date of certificates issued for the same and
the number and date of certificates cancelled.
(f) Assistant Secretaries. The Assistant Secretary or, if there be more than one, the
Assistant Secretaries in the order determined by the Board shall, in the absence (or inability or
refusal to act) of the Secretary, perform the duties and have the powers of the Secretary.
(g) Treasurer. The Treasurer shall perform all duties commonly incident to that
office (including, without limitation, the care and custody of the funds and securities of the
Corporation which from time to time may come into the Treasurers hands and the deposit of the
funds of the Corporation in such banks or trust companies as the Board, the Chief Executive Officer
or the President may authorize).
(h) Assistant Treasurers. The Assistant Treasurer or, if there shall be more than
one, the Assistant Treasurers in the order determined by the Board shall, in the absence (or
inability or refusal to act) of the Treasurer, perform the duties and exercise the powers of the
Treasurer.
Section 6.2. Term of Office; Removal; Vacancies. The elected officers of the Corporation shall be
elected annually by the Board at its first meeting held after each annual meeting of stockholders.
All officers elected by the Board shall hold office until the next annual meeting of the Board and
until their successors are duly elected and qualified or until their earlier death, resignation,
retirement, disqualification, or removal from office. Any officer may be removed, with or without
cause, at any time by the Board. Any officer appointed by the Chairman of the Board, Chief
Executive Officer or President may also be removed, with or without cause, by the Chairman of the
Board, Chief Executive Officer or President, as the case may be, unless the Board otherwise
provides. Any vacancy occurring in any elected office of the Corporation may be filled by the
Board. Any vacancy occurring in any office appointed by the Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive
Officer or President may be filled by the Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer or
President, as the case may be, unless the Board then determines that such office shall thereupon be
elected by the Board, in which case the Board shall elect such officer.
Section 6.3. Other Officers. The Board may delegate the power to appoint such other officers and
agents, and may also remove such officers and agents or delegate the power to remove same, as it
shall from time to time deem necessary or desirable.
Section 6.4. Multiple Officeholders; Stockholder and Director Officers. Any number of offices may
be held by the same person unless the Articles of Incorporation or these Bylaws otherwise provide.
Officers need not be stockholders or residents of the State of Nevada.
ARTICLE VII
SHARES
Section 7.1. Certificated and Uncertificated Shares. The shares of the Corporation shall be
represented by certificates, provided that the Board may provide by resolution or resolutions that
some or all of any or all classes or series of its stock shall be uncertificated shares. Any such
resolution shall not apply to shares represented by a certificate until such certificate is
surrendered to the Corporation. Notwithstanding the adoption of such a resolution by the Board,
every holder of stock represented by certificates and upon request every holder of uncertificated
shares shall be entitled to have a certificate signed in accordance with Section 7.3
representing the number of shares registered in certificate form. The Corporation shall not have
power to issue a certificate representing shares in bearer form.
Section 7.2. Multiple Classes of Stock. If the Corporation shall be authorized to issue more than
one class of stock or more than one series of any class, the Corporation shall (a) cause 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 or rights to be set forth in full or summarized on the face or back of any certificate
that the Corporation issues to represent shares of such class or series of stock or (b) in the case
of uncertificated shares, within a reasonable time after the issuance or transfer of such shares,
send to the registered owner thereof a written notice containing the information required to be set
forth on certificates as specified in clause (a) above; provided, however, that, except as
otherwise provided by applicable law, in lieu of the foregoing requirements, there may be set forth
on the face or back of such certificate or, in the case of uncertificated shares, on such written
notice 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 or rights.
Section 7.3. Signatures. Each certificate representing capital stock of the Corporation shall be
signed by or in the name of the Corporation. Any or all the signatures on the certificate may be a
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, such certificate may be issued by the Corporation with the same effect as if
such person were such officer, transfer agent or registrar on the date of issue.
Section 7.4. Consideration and Payment for Shares.
(a) Subject to applicable law and the Articles of Incorporation, shares of stock may be issued
for such consideration, having in the case of shares with par value a value not less than the par
value thereof, and to such persons, as determined from time to time by the Board. The
consideration may consist of any tangible or intangible property or benefit to the Corporation
including cash, promissory notes, services performed, contracts for services to be performed or
other securities.
(b) Subject to applicable law and the Articles of Incorporation, shares may not be issued
until the full amount of the consideration has been paid, unless upon the face or back of each
certificate issued to represent any partly paid shares of capital stock or upon the books and
records of the Corporation in the case of partly paid uncertificated shares, there shall have been
set forth the total amount of the consideration to be paid therefor and the amount paid thereon up
to and including the time said certificate representing certificated shares or said uncertificated
shares are issued.
Section 7.5. Lost, Destroyed or Wrongfully Taken Certificates.
(a) If an owner of a certificate representing shares claims that such certificate has been
lost, destroyed or wrongfully taken, the Corporation shall issue a new certificate representing
such shares or such shares in uncertificated form if the owner: (i) requests such a new certificate
before the Corporation has notice that the certificate representing such shares has been acquired
by a protected purchaser; (ii) if requested by the Corporation, delivers to the Corporation a bond
sufficient to indemnify the Corporation against any claim that may be made against the Corporation
on account of the alleged loss, wrongful taking or destruction of such certificate or the issuance
of such new certificate or uncertificated shares; and (iii) satisfies other reasonable requirements
imposed by the Corporation.
(b) If a certificate representing shares has been lost, apparently destroyed or wrongfully
taken, and the owner fails to notify the Corporation of that fact within a reasonable time after
the owner has notice of such loss, apparent destruction or wrongful taking and the Corporation
registers a transfer of such shares before receiving notification, the owner shall be precluded
from asserting against the Corporation any claim for registering such transfer or a claim to a new
certificate representing such shares or such shares in uncertificated form.
Section 7.6. Transfer of Stock.
(a) If a certificate representing shares of the Corporation is presented to the Corporation
with an indorsement requesting the registration of transfer of such shares or an instruction is
presented to the Corporation requesting the registration of transfer of uncertificated shares, the
Corporation shall register the transfer as requested if:
(i) in the case of certificated shares, the certificate representing such shares has
been surrendered;
(ii) (A) with respect to certificated shares, the indorsement is made by the person
specified by the certificate as entitled to such shares; (B) with respect to uncertificated
shares, an instruction is made by the registered owner of such uncertificated shares; or
(C) with respect to certificated shares or uncertificated shares, the indorsement or
instruction is made by any other appropriate person or by an agent who has actual authority
to act on behalf of the appropriate person;
(iii) the Corporation has received a guarantee of signature of the person signing such
indorsement or instruction or such other reasonable assurance that the indorsement or
instruction is genuine and authorized as the Corporation may request;
(iv) the transfer does not violate any restriction on transfer imposed by the
Corporation that is enforceable in accordance with Section 7.8(a); and
(v) such other conditions for such transfer as shall be provided for under applicable
law have been satisfied.
(b) Whenever any transfer of shares shall be made for collateral security and not absolutely,
the Corporation shall so record such fact in the entry of transfer if, when the certificate for
such shares is presented to the Corporation for transfer or, if such shares are uncertificated,
when the instruction for registration of transfer thereof is presented to the Corporation, both the
transferor and transferee request the Corporation to do so.
Section 7.7. Registered Stockholders. Before due presentment for registration of transfer of a
certificate representing shares of the Corporation or of an instruction requesting registration of
transfer of uncertificated shares, the Corporation may treat the registered owner as the person
exclusively entitled to inspect for any proper purpose the stock ledger and the other books and
records of the Corporation, vote such shares, receive dividends or notifications with respect to
such shares and otherwise exercise all the rights and powers of the owner of such shares, except
that a person who is the beneficial owner of such shares (if held in a voting trust or by a nominee
on behalf of such person) may, upon providing documentary evidence of beneficial ownership of such
shares and satisfying such other conditions as are provided under applicable law, may also so
inspect the books and records of the Corporation.
Section 7.8. Effect of the Corporations Restriction on Transfer.
(a) A written restriction on the transfer or registration of transfer of shares of the
Corporation or on the amount of shares of the Corporation that may be owned by any person or group
of persons, if permitted by the NGCL and noted conspicuously on the certificate representing such
shares or, in the case of uncertificated shares, contained in a notice sent by the Corporation to
the registered owner of such shares within a reasonable time after the issuance or transfer of such
shares, may be enforced against the holder of such shares or any successor or transferee of the
holder including an executor, administrator, trustee, guardian or other fiduciary entrusted with
like responsibility for the person or estate of the holder.
(b) A restriction imposed by the Corporation on the transfer or the registration of shares of
the Corporation or on the amount of shares of the Corporation that may be owned by any person or
group of persons, even if otherwise lawful, is ineffective against a person without actual
knowledge of such restriction unless: (i) the shares are certificated and such restriction is
noted conspicuously on the certificate; or (ii) the shares are uncertificated and such restriction
was contained in a notice sent by the Corporation to the registered owner of such shares within a
reasonable time after the issuance or transfer of such shares.
Section 7.9. Regulations. The Board shall have power and authority to make such additional rules
and regulations, subject to any applicable requirement of law, as the Board may deem necessary and
appropriate with respect to the issue, transfer or registration of transfer of shares of stock or
certificates representing shares. The Board may appoint one or more transfer agents or registrars
and may require for the validity thereof that certificates representing shares bear the signature
of any transfer agent or registrar so appointed.
ARTICLE VIII
INDEMNIFICATION
Section 8.1. Right to Indemnification. Each person who was or is made a party or is threatened to
be made a party to or is otherwise involved in any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or
proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative (hereinafter a proceeding),
by reason of the fact that he or she is or was a director or officer of the Corporation or, while a
director or officer of the Corporation, is or was
serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another
corporation or of a partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, including service with
respect to an employee benefit plan (hereinafter a Covered Person), whether the basis of such
proceeding is alleged action in an official capacity as a director, officer, employee or agent, or
in any other capacity while serving as a director, officer, employee or agent, shall be indemnified
and held harmless by the Corporation to the fullest extent authorized or permitted by applicable
law, as the same exists or may hereafter be amended, against all expense, liability and loss
(including, without limitation, attorneys fees, judgments, fines, ERISA excise taxes and penalties
and amounts paid in settlement) reasonably incurred or suffered by such Covered Person in
connection with such proceeding; provided, however, that, except as provided in Section 8.3
with respect to proceedings to enforce rights to indemnification, the Corporation shall indemnify a
Covered Person in connection with a proceeding (or part thereof) initiated by such Covered Person
only if such proceeding (or part thereof) was authorized by the Board.
Section 8.2. Right to Advancement of Expenses. In addition to the right to indemnification
conferred in Section 8.1, a Covered Person shall also have the right to be paid by the
Corporation the expenses (including, without limitation, attorneys fees) incurred in defending,
testifying, or otherwise participating in any such proceeding in advance of its final disposition
(hereinafter an advancement of expenses); provided, however, that, if the Nevada General
Corporation Law (NGCL) requires, an advancement of expenses incurred by a Covered Person in his
or her capacity as a director or officer of the Corporation (and not in any other capacity in which
service was or is rendered by such Covered Person, including, without limitation, service to an
employee benefit plan) shall be made only upon delivery to the Corporation of an undertaking
(hereinafter an undertaking), by or on behalf of such Covered Person, to repay all amounts so
advanced if it shall ultimately be determined by final judicial decision from which there is no
further right to appeal (hereinafter a final adjudication) that such Covered Person is not
entitled to be indemnified for such expenses under this Article VIII or otherwise.
Section 8.3. Right of Indemnitee to Bring Suit. If a claim under Section 8.1 or
Section 8.2 is not paid in full by the Corporation within 60 days after a written claim
therefor has been received by the Corporation, except in the case of a claim for an advancement of
expenses, in which case the applicable period shall be 20 days, the Covered Person may at any time
thereafter bring suit against the Corporation to recover the unpaid amount of the claim. If
successful in whole or in part in any such suit, or in a suit brought by the Corporation to recover
an advancement of expenses pursuant to the terms of an undertaking, the Covered Person shall also
be entitled to be paid the expense of prosecuting or defending such suit. In (a) any suit brought
by the Covered Person to enforce a right to indemnification hereunder (but not in a suit brought by
a Covered Person to enforce a right to an advancement of expenses) it shall be a defense that, and
(b) in any suit brought by the Corporation to recover an advancement of expenses pursuant to the
terms of an undertaking, the Corporation shall be entitled to recover such expenses upon a final
adjudication that, the Covered Person has not met any applicable standard for indemnification set
forth in the NGCL. Neither the failure of the Corporation (including its directors who are not
parties to such action, a committee of such directors, independent legal counsel, or its
stockholders) to have made a determination prior to the commencement of such suit that
indemnification of the Covered Person is proper in the circumstances because the Covered Person has
met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in the NGCL, nor an actual determination by the
Corporation (including a determination by its directors who are not parties to such action, a
committee of such directors, independent legal counsel, or its stockholders) that the Covered
Person has not met such applicable standard of conduct, shall create a presumption that the Covered
Person has not met the applicable standard of conduct or, in the case of such a suit brought by the
Covered Person, shall be a defense to such suit. In any suit brought by the Covered Person to
enforce a right to indemnification or to an advancement of expenses hereunder, or by the
Corporation to recover an advancement of expenses pursuant to the terms of an undertaking, the
burden of proving that the Covered Person is not entitled to be indemnified, or to such advancement
of expenses, under this Article VIII or otherwise shall be on the Corporation.
Section 8.4. Non-Exclusivity of Rights. The rights provided to Covered Persons pursuant to this
Article VIII shall not be exclusive of any other right which any Covered Person may have or
hereafter acquire under applicable law, the Articles of Incorporation, these Bylaws, an agreement,
a vote of stockholders or disinterested directors, or otherwise.
Section 8.5. Insurance. The Corporation may maintain insurance, at its expense, to protect itself
and/or any director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation or another corporation,
partnership, joint venture,
trust or other enterprise against any expense, liability or loss, whether or not the Corporation
would have the power to indemnify such person against such expense, liability or loss under the
NGCL.
Section 8.6. Indemnification of Other Persons. This Article VIII shall not limit the right
of the Corporation to the extent and in the manner authorized or permitted by law to indemnify and
to advance expenses to persons other than Covered Persons. Without limiting the foregoing, the
Corporation may, to the extent authorized from time to time by the Board, grant rights to
indemnification and to the advancement of expenses to any employee or agent of the Corporation and
to any other person who is or was serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer,
employee or agent of another corporation or of a partnership, joint venture, trust or other
enterprise, including service with respect to an employee benefit plan, to the fullest extent of
the provisions of this Article VIII with respect to the indemnification and advancement of
expenses of Covered Persons under this Article VIII.
Section 8.7. Amendments. Any repeal or amendment of this Article VIII by the Board or the
stockholders of the Corporation or by changes in applicable law, or the adoption of any other
provision of these Bylaws inconsistent with this Article VIII, will, to the extent
permitted by applicable law, be prospective only (except to the extent such amendment or change in
applicable law permits the Corporation to provide broader indemnification rights to Covered Persons
on a retroactive basis than permitted prior thereto), and will not in any way diminish or adversely
affect any right or protection existing hereunder in respect of any act or omission occurring prior
to such repeal or amendment or adoption of such inconsistent provision.
Section 8.8 Certain Definitions. For purposes of this Article VIII, (a) references to
other enterprise shall include any employee benefit plan; (b) references to fines shall include
any excise taxes assessed on a person with respect to an employee benefit plan; (c) references to
serving at the request of the Corporation shall include any service that imposes duties on, or
involves services by, a person with respect to any employee benefit plan, its participants, or
beneficiaries; and (d) a person who acted in good faith and in a manner such person 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 interest of the Corporation for
purposes of the NGCL.
Section 8.9. Contract Rights. The rights provided to Covered Persons pursuant to this
Article VIII shall be contract rights and such rights shall continue as to a Covered Person
who has ceased to be a director, officer, agent or employee and shall inure to the benefit of the
Covered Persons heirs, executors and administrators.
Section 8.10. Severability. If any provision or provisions of this Article VIII shall be
held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable for any reason whatsoever: (a) the validity, legality
and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Article VIII shall not in any way be
affected or impaired thereby; and (b) to the fullest extent possible, the provisions of this
Article VIII (including, without limitation, each such portion of this Article VIII
containing any such provision held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable) shall be construed so
as to give effect to the intent manifested by the provision held invalid, illegal or unenforceable.
ARTICLE IX
MISCELLANEOUS
Section 9.l. Place of Meetings. If the place of any meeting of stockholders, the Board or
committee of the Board for which notice is required under these Bylaws is not designated in the
notice of such meeting, such meeting shall be held at the principal business office of the
Corporation; provided, however, if the Board has, in its sole discretion, determined that a meeting
shall not be held at any place, but instead shall be held by means of remote communication pursuant
to Section 9.5 hereof, then such meeting shall not be held at any place.
Section 9.2. Fixing Record Dates.
(a) In order that the Corporation may determine the stockholders entitled to notice of or to
vote at any meeting of stockholders or any adjournment thereof, the Board may fix a record date,
which shall not precede the date upon which the resolution fixing the record date is adopted by the
Board, and which record date shall not be more than 60 nor less than 10 days before the date of
such meeting. If no record date is fixed by the Board, 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 business day next preceding the day on which notice is
given, or, if notice is waived, at the close of business on the business 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 may fix a new record date for the adjourned meeting.
(b) In order that the Corporation may determine the stockholders entitled to receive payment
of any dividend or other distribution or allotment of any rights or the stockholders 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 may fix a record date, which record date shall not precede
the date upon which the resolution fixing the record date is adopted, and which record date shall
be not more than 60 days prior to such action. If no record date is fixed, the record date for
determining stockholders for any such purpose shall be at the close of business on the day on which
the Board adopts the resolution relating thereto.
Section 9.3. Means of Giving Notice.
(a) Notice to Directors. Whenever under applicable law, the Articles of Incorporation
or these Bylaws notice is required to be given to any director, such notice shall be given either
(i) in writing and sent by hand delivery, through the United States mail, or by a nationally
recognized overnight delivery service for next day delivery, (ii) by means of facsimile
telecommunication or other form of electronic transmission, or (iii) by oral notice given
personally or by telephone. A notice to a director will be deemed given as follows: (i) if given
by hand delivery, orally, or by telephone, when actually received by the director, (ii) if sent
through the United States mail, when deposited in the United States mail, with postage and fees
thereon prepaid, addressed to the director at the directors address appearing on the records of
the Corporation, (iii) if sent for next day delivery by a nationally recognized overnight delivery
service, when deposited with such service, with fees thereon prepaid, addressed to the director at
the directors address appearing on the records of the Corporation, (iv) if sent by facsimile
telecommunication, when sent to the facsimile transmission number for such director appearing on
the records of the Corporation, (v) if sent by electronic mail, when sent to the electronic mail
address for such director appearing on the records of the Corporation, or (vi) if sent by any other
form of electronic transmission, when sent to the address, location or number (as applicable) for
such director appearing on the records of the Corporation.
(b) Notice to Stockholders. Whenever under applicable law, the Articles of
Incorporation or these Bylaws notice is required to be given to any stockholder, such notice may be
given (i) in writing and sent either by hand delivery, through the United States mail, or by a
nationally recognized overnight delivery service for next day delivery, or (ii) by means of a form
of electronic transmission consented to by the stockholder, to the extent permitted by, and subject
to the conditions set forth in the NGCL. A notice to a stockholder shall be deemed given as
follows: (i) if given by hand delivery, when actually received by the stockholder, (ii) if sent
through the United States mail, when deposited in the United States mail, with postage and fees
thereon prepaid, addressed to the stockholder at the stockholders address appearing on the stock
ledger of the Corporation, (iii) if sent for next day delivery by a nationally recognized overnight
delivery service, when deposited with such service, with fees thereon prepaid, addressed to the
stockholder at the stockholders address appearing on the stock ledger of the Corporation, and
(iv) if given by a form of electronic transmission consented to by the stockholder to whom the
notice is given and otherwise meeting the requirements set forth above, (A) if by facsimile
transmission, when directed to a number at which the stockholder has consented to receive notice,
(B) if by electronic mail, when directed to an electronic mail address at which the stockholder has
consented to receive notice, (C) if by a posting on an electronic network together with separate
notice to the stockholder of such specified posting, upon the later of (1) such posting and (2) the
giving of such separate notice, and (D) if by any other form of electronic transmission, when
directed to the stockholder. A stockholder may revoke such stockholders consent to receiving
notice by means of electronic communication by giving written notice of such revocation to the
Corporation. Any such consent shall be deemed revoked if (1) the Corporation is unable to deliver
by electronic transmission two consecutive notices given by the Corporation in accordance with such
consent and (2) such inability becomes known to the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary or to the
Corporations transfer agent, or other person responsible for the giving of notice; provided,
however, the inadvertent failure to treat such inability as a revocation shall not invalidate any
meeting or other action.
(c) Electronic Transmission. Electronic transmission means any form of
communication, not directly involving the physical transmission of paper, that creates a record
that may be retained, retrieved and reviewed by a recipient thereof, and that may be directly
reproduced in paper form by such a recipient through an automated process, including but not
limited to transmission by telex, facsimile telecommunication, electronic mail, telegram and
cablegram.
(d) Notice to Stockholders Sharing Same Address. Without limiting the manner by which
notice otherwise may be given effectively by the Corporation to stockholders, any notice to
stockholders given by the Corporation under any provision of the NGCL, the Articles of
Incorporation or these Bylaws shall be effective if given by a single written notice to
stockholders who share an address if consented to by the stockholders at that address to whom such
notice is given. A stockholder may revoke such stockholders consent by delivering written notice
of such revocation to the Corporation. Any stockholder who fails to object in writing to the
Corporation within 60 days of having been given written notice by the Corporation of its intention
to send such a single written notice shall be deemed to have consented to receiving such single
written notice.
(e) Exceptions to Notice Requirements. Whenever notice is required to be given, under
the NGCL, the Articles of Incorporation or these Bylaws, to any person with whom communication is
unlawful, the giving of such notice to such person shall not be required and there shall be no duty
to apply to any governmental authority or agency for a license or permit to give such notice to
such person. Any action or meeting which shall be taken or held without notice to any such person
with whom communication is unlawful shall have the same force and effect as if such notice had been
duly given. In the event that the action taken by the Corporation is such as to require the filing
of a certificate with the Secretary of State of Nevada, the certificate shall state, if such is the
fact and if notice is required, that notice was given to all persons entitled to receive notice
except such persons with whom communication is unlawful.
Whenever notice is required to be given by the Corporation, under any provision of the NGCL,
the Articles of Incorporation or these Bylaws, to any stockholder to whom (1) notice of two
consecutive annual meetings of stockholders and all notices of stockholder meetings or of the
taking of action by written consent of stockholders without a meeting to such stockholder during
the period between such two consecutive annual meetings, or (2) all, and at least two payments (if
sent by first-class mail) of dividends or interest on securities during a 12-month period, have
been mailed addressed to such stockholder at such stockholders address as shown on the records of
the Corporation and have been returned undeliverable, the giving of such notice to such stockholder
shall not be required. Any action or meeting which shall be taken or held without notice to such
stockholder shall have the same force and effect as if such notice had been duly given. If any
such stockholder shall deliver to the Corporation a written notice setting forth such stockholders
then current address, the requirement that notice be given to such stockholder shall be reinstated.
In the event that the action taken by the Corporation is such as to require the filing of a
certificate with the Secretary of State of Nevada, the certificate need not state that notice was
not given to persons to whom notice was not required to be given pursuant to the NGCL. The
exception in subsection (1) of the first sentence of this paragraph to the requirement that notice
be given shall not be applicable to any notice returned as undeliverable if the notice was given by
electronic transmission.
Section 9.4. Waiver of Notice. Whenever any notice is required to be given under applicable law,
the Articles of Incorporation, or these Bylaws, a written waiver of such notice, signed before or
after the date of such meeting by the person or persons entitled to said notice, or a waiver by
electronic transmission by the person entitled to said notice, shall be deemed equivalent to such
required notice. All such waivers shall be kept with the books of the Corporation. Attendance at
a meeting shall constitute a waiver of notice of such meeting, except where a person attends for
the express purpose of objecting to the transaction of any business on the ground that the meeting
was not lawfully called or convened.
Section 9.5. Meeting Attendance via Remote Communication Equipment.
(a) Stockholder Meetings. If authorized by the Board in its sole discretion, and
subject to such guidelines and procedures as the Board may adopt, stockholders and proxyholders not
physically present at a meeting of stockholders may, by means of remote communication:
(i) participate in a meeting of stockholders; and
(ii) be deemed present in person and vote at a meeting of stockholders, whether such
meeting is to be held at a designated place or solely by means of remote communication,
provided that (A) the Corporation shall implement reasonable measures to verify that each
person deemed present and permitted to vote at the meeting by means of remote communication
is a stockholder or proxyholder, (B) the Corporation shall implement reasonable measures to
provide such stockholders and proxyholders a reasonable opportunity to participate in the
meeting and to vote on matters submitted to the stockholders, including an opportunity to
read or hear the proceedings of the meeting substantially concurrently with such
proceedings, and (C) if any stockholder or proxyholder votes or takes other action at the
meeting by means of remote communication, a record of such votes or other action shall be
maintained by the Corporation.
(b) Board Meetings. Unless otherwise restricted by applicable law, the Articles of
Incorporation or these Bylaws, members of the Board or any committee thereof may participate in a
meeting of the Board or any committee thereof by means of conference telephone or other
communications equipment by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each
other. Such participation in a meeting shall constitute presence in person at the meeting, except
where a person participates in the meeting for the express purpose of objecting to the transaction
of any business on the ground that the meeting was not lawfully called or convened.
Section 9.6. Dividends. The Board may from time to time declare, and the Corporation may pay,
dividends (payable in cash, property or shares of the Corporations capital stock) on the
Corporations outstanding shares of capital stock, subject to applicable law and the Articles of
Incorporation.
Section 9.7. Reserves. The Board may set apart out of the funds of the Corporation available for
dividends a reserve or reserves for any proper purpose and may abolish any such reserve.
Section 9.8. Contracts and Negotiable Instruments. Except as otherwise provided by applicable law,
the Articles of Incorporation or these Bylaws, any contract, bond, deed, lease, mortgage or other
instrument may be executed and delivered in the name and on behalf of the Corporation by such
officer or officers or other employee or employees of the Corporation as the Board may from time to
time authorize. Such authority may be general or confined to specific instances as the Board may
determine. The Chairman of the Board, the Chief Executive Officer, the President or any Vice
President may execute and deliver any contract, bond, deed, lease, mortgage or other instrument in
the name and on behalf of the Corporation. Subject to any restrictions imposed by the Board, the
Chairman of the Board Chief Executive Officer, President or any Vice President may delegate powers
to execute and deliver any contract, bond, deed, lease, mortgage or other instrument in the name
and on behalf of the Corporation to other officers or employees of the Corporation under such
persons supervision and authority, it being understood, however, that any such delegation of power
shall not relieve such officer of responsibility with respect to the exercise of such delegated
power.
Section 9.9. Fiscal Year. The fiscal year of the Corporation shall be fixed by the Board.
Section 9.10. Seal. The Board may adopt a corporate seal, which shall be in such form as the Board
determines. The seal may be used by causing it or a facsimile thereof to be impressed, affixed or
otherwise reproduced.
Section 9.11. Books and Records. The books and records of the Corporation may be kept within or
outside the State of Nevada at such place or places as may from time to time be designated by the
Board.
Section 9.12. Resignation. Any director, committee member or officer may resign by giving notice
thereof in writing or by electronic transmission to the Chairman of the Board, the Chief Executive
Officer, the President or the Secretary. The resignation shall take effect at the time specified
therein, or at the time of receipt of such notice if no time is specified or the specified time is
earlier than the time of such receipt. Unless otherwise specified therein, the acceptance of such
resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective.
Section 9.13. Surety Bonds. Such officers, employees and agents of the Corporation (if any) as the
Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer, President or the Board may direct, from time to
time, shall be
bonded for the faithful performance of their duties and for the restoration to the Corporation, in
case of their death, resignation, retirement, disqualification or removal from office, of all
books, papers, vouchers, money and other property of whatever kind in their possession or under
their control belonging to the Corporation, in such amounts and by such surety companies as the
Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer, President or the Board may determine. The premiums
on such bonds shall be paid by the Corporation and the bonds so furnished shall be in the custody
of the Secretary.
Section 9.14. Securities of Other Corporations. Powers of attorney, proxies, waivers of notice of
meeting, consents in writing and other instruments relating to securities owned by the Corporation
may be executed in the name of and on behalf of the Corporation by the Chairman of the Board, Chief
Executive Officer, President or any Vice President. Any such officer, may, in the name of and on
behalf of the Corporation, take all such action as any such officer may deem advisable to vote in
person or by proxy at any meeting of security holders of any corporation in which the Corporation
may own securities, or to consent in writing, in the name of the Corporation as such holder, to any
action by such corporation, and at any such meeting or with respect to any such consent shall
possess and may exercise any and all rights and power incident to the ownership of such securities
and which, as the owner thereof, the Corporation might have exercised and possessed. The Board may
from time to time confer like powers upon any other person or persons.
Section 9.11. Amendments. The Board shall have the power to adopt, amend, alter or repeal the
Bylaws. The affirmative vote of a majority of the Whole Board shall be required to adopt, amend,
alter or repeal the Bylaws. The Bylaws also may be adopted, amended, altered or repealed by the
stockholders; provided, however, that in addition to any vote of the holders of any class or series
of capital stock of the Corporation required by applicable law or the Articles of Incorporation,
the affirmative vote of the holders of at least
662/3% of the voting power of all outstanding shares
of capital stock of the Corporation entitled to vote generally in the election of directors, voting
together as a single class, shall be required for the stockholders to adopt, amend, alter or repeal
the Bylaws.
Exhibit C
CHARTER OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE
OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
OF FOOTHILLS RESOURCES, INC.
I. PURPOSE
The Audit Committee (the Committee) is appointed by the Board of Directors (the Board) of
Foothills Resources, Inc. (the Company) to oversee the accounting and financial reporting
processes of the Company and the audits of the Companys financial statements. In that regard, the
Audit Committee assists the Board in monitoring (i) the Companys accounting, auditing, and
financial reporting processes generally, including the qualifications, independence and performance
of the independent auditor, (ii) the integrity of the Companys financial statements, (iii) the
Companys systems of internal control regarding finance and accounting and (iv) the Companys
compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. In performing its duties, the Committee shall
seek to maintain an open avenue of communication among the Board, the independent auditor, the
internal auditors (if any) and the management of the Company.
While the Committee has the responsibilities and authority set forth in this Charter, it is
not the duty of the Committee to plan or conduct audits or to determine that the Companys
financial statements are complete and accurate and are in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles. That is the responsibility of management and the independent auditor.
Nothing contained in this Charter is intended to expand applicable standards of liability under
statutory or regulatory requirements for the directors of the Company or members of the
Committee.
The independent auditor is ultimately accountable to the Committee, which has the sole
authority to appoint, oversee and, where appropriate, replace the independent auditor. The
Committee has direct responsibility for the compensation and oversight of the work of the
independent auditor (including resolution of disagreements between management and the independent
auditor regarding financial reporting) in connection with preparing or issuing an audit report or
performing other audit, review or attest services for the Company. The independent auditor shall
report directly to the Committee.
II. COMPOSITION
The Committee shall be comprised of three or more members (including a Chairperson). The
members of the Committee shall meet the independence requirements of the Nasdaq Stock Market, Inc.
Marketplace Rules and Rule 10A-3(b)(1) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the
Exchange Act). No member of the Committee shall have participated in the preparation of the
financial statements of the Company or any current subsidiary of the Company at any time during the
past three years. The members of the Committee and the Chairperson shall be appointed annually by
the Board and serve at the pleasure of the Board. A Committee member (including the Chairperson)
may be removed at any time, with or without cause, by the Board. The Board may designate one or
more independent directors as alternate members of the Committee, who may replace any absent or
disqualified member or members at any meetings of the Committee.
All members of the Committee shall have a working familiarity with basic finance and
accounting practices and be able to read and understand fundamental financial statements, including
the Companys balance sheet, income statement and cash flow statement, and at least one member of
the Committee shall be an audit committee financial expert as defined by the SEC. Committee
members may enhance their familiarity with finance and accounting by participating in educational
programs conducted by the Company or an outside consultant. The Chairperson shall maintain regular
communication with the chief executive officer, chief financial officer, the lead partner of the
independent auditor and the senior officer responsible for the internal audit function.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, one director who does not meet the Nasdaq definition of
independence, but who meets the criteria set forth in Section 10A(m)(3) of the Exchange Act and the
rules thereunder, and who is not a current officer or employee of the Company or a family member of
a current officer or employee, may serve for no more than two years on the Committee if the Board,
under exceptional and limited circumstances, determines that
such individuals membership is required by the best interests of the Company and its
shareholders. Such person must satisfy the independence requirements set forth in Section
10A(m)(3) of the Exchange Act, and may not chair the Committee. The use of this exceptional and
limited circumstances exception, as well as the nature of the individuals relationship to the
Company and the basis for the boards determination, shall be disclosed in the annual proxy
statement.
In addition, if a member of the Committee ceases to be independent for reasons outside the
members reasonable control, his or her membership on the Committee may continue until the earlier
of the Companys next annual meeting of shareholders or one year from the occurrence of the event
that caused the failure to qualify as independent; provided that if the annual meeting of
shareholders occurs within 180 days following the event that caused the failure to comply with the
independence requirement, the members membership on the Committee may continue until the
180th day following such event.
III. MEETINGS
The Committee shall meet as often as it determines necessary, but at least four times each
year, to enable it to fulfill its responsibilities. The Committee shall meet at the call of its
Chairperson. The Committee may meet by telephone conference call or by any other means permitted
by law or the Companys Bylaws. A majority of the members of the Committee shall constitute a
quorum. The Committee shall act on the affirmative vote of a majority of members present at a
meeting at which a quorum is present. Subject to the Companys Bylaws, the Committee may act by
unanimous written consent of all members in lieu of a meeting. The Committee shall determine its
own rules and procedures, including designation of a chairperson pro tempore in the absence of the
Chairperson, and designation of a secretary. The secretary need not be a member of the Committee
and shall attend Committee meetings and prepare minutes. The Committee shall keep written minutes
of its meetings, which shall be recorded or filed with the books and records of the Company. Any
member of the Board shall be provided with copies of such Committee minutes if requested.
The Committee may ask members of management, employees, outside counsel, the independent
auditors, internal auditors or others whose advice and counsel are relevant to the issues then
being considered by the Committee, to attend any meetings and to provide such pertinent information
as the Committee may request.
The Chairperson of the Committee shall be responsible for leadership of the Committee,
including preparing the agenda, presiding over Committee meetings, making Committee assignments and
reporting the Committees actions to the Board from time to time (but at least once each year) as
requested by the Board.
As part of its responsibility to foster free and open communication, the Committee shall meet
periodically with management, the internal auditors and the independent auditor in separate
executive sessions.
IV. RESPONSIBILITIES
In carrying out its responsibilities, the Committees policies and procedures should remain
flexible to enable the Committee to react to changes in circumstances and conditions so that it can
fulfill its oversight responsibilities. In addition to such other duties as the Board may from
time to time assign, the Committee shall:
Financial Statements
|
|
|
Review and discuss with management and the independent auditor the Companys annual
audited financial statements prior to the filing of the Companys Form 10-K, including
disclosures made in Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations, and recommend to the Board whether the audited financial
statements should be included in the Form 10-K. |
|
|
|
|
Review and discuss with management and the independent auditor the Companys
quarterly financial statements prior to the filing of the Companys Form 10-Q,
including disclosures made |
|
|
|
in Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions and the results of
the independent auditors review of the quarterly financial statements. |
|
|
|
|
Discuss with management and the independent auditor significant financial reporting
issues and judgments made in connection with the preparation of the Companys financial
statements, including any significant changes in the Companys selection or application
of accounting principles, and the judgments of each of management and the independent
auditor as to the quality and appropriateness of the Companys accounting principles as
applied in its financial reporting. |
|
|
|
|
Review and discuss with management and the independent auditor managements report
on internal control over financial reporting and the independent auditors attestation
of the report prior to the filing of the Companys Form 10-K. |
|
|
|
|
Review and discuss the reports required to be delivered by the independent auditor
pursuant to Section 10A(k) of the Exchange Act regarding: |
|
|
|
all critical accounting policies and practices to be used, |
|
|
|
|
all alternative treatments of financial information within generally
accepted accounting principles that have been discussed with management,
ramifications of the use of such alternative disclosures and treatments, and
the treatment preferred by the independent auditor, and |
|
|
|
|
other material written communications between the independent auditor and
management, such as any management letter or schedule of unadjusted
differences. |
|
|
|
Discuss with management the Companys earnings press releases, as well as financial
information and earnings guidance provided to analysts and rating agencies. Such
discussion may be done generally (consisting of discussing the types of information to
be disclosed and the types of presentations to be made) and the Committee need not
discuss in advance each earnings release or each instance in which the Company may
provide earnings guidance. |
|
|
|
|
Discuss with management and the independent auditor the effect of regulatory and
accounting initiatives, as well as off-balance sheet structures, on the Companys
financial statements. |
|
|
|
|
Discuss with the independent auditor the matters required to be discussed by
Statement on Auditing Standards No. 61 relating to the conduct of the audit, including
any difficulties encountered in the course of the audit work, any restrictions on the
scope of activities or access to requested information, and any significant
disagreements with management. |
|
|
|
|
Review and discuss with management and the independent auditor any major issues as
to the adequacy of the Companys internal controls, any special audit steps adopted in
light of material control deficiencies and the adequacy of disclosures about changes in
internal control over financial reporting. |
|
|
|
|
Review disclosures made to the Committee by the Companys CEO and CFO during their
certification process for the Form 10-K and Form 10-Q about any significant
deficiencies in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting or
material weaknesses therein and any fraud involving management or other employees who
have a significant role in the Companys internal control over financial reporting. |
Oversight of the Companys Relationship with the Independent Auditor
|
|
|
Select the Companys independent auditor, considering qualifications, independence
and performance, and approve the scope of the proposed audit for each fiscal year and
the fees and other compensation to be paid to the independent auditor therefor. |
|
|
|
|
Obtain and review at least annually a formal written statement from the independent
auditor delineating all relationships between the independent auditor and the Company.
It is the responsibility of the Committee to actively engage in a dialogue with the
independent auditor with respect to any disclosed relationships or services that may
impact the objectivity and the independence of the auditor and for taking, or
recommending that the full Board take, appropriate action to oversee the independence
of the outside auditor. |
|
|
|
|
Obtain and review a report from the independent auditor at least annually regarding: |
|
|
|
the independent auditors internal quality control-procedures, |
|
|
|
|
any material issues raised by the most recent internal quality-control
review, or peer review, of the independent auditor, or by any inquiry or
investigation by governmental or professional authorities within the preceding
five years respecting one or more independent audits carried out by the
independent auditor, and |
|
|
|
|
any steps taken to deal with any such issues. |
|
|
|
Ensure the rotation of the lead audit partner having primary responsibility for the
Companys audit and the audit partner responsible for reviewing the audit as required
by law. |
|
|
|
|
Recommend to the Board policies for the Companys hiring of employees or former
employees of the independent auditor. |
|
|
|
|
Discuss with the independent auditor material issues on which the national office of
the independent auditor was consulted by the Companys audit team. |
|
|
|
|
Preapprove all auditing services, internal control-related services and permitted
non-audit services (including the fees and terms thereof) to be performed for the
Company by the independent auditor, subject to such exceptions for non-audit services
as permitted by applicable laws and regulations. The Committee may when it deems
appropriate form and delegate this authority to a subcommittee consisting of one or
more Committee members, including the authority to grant preapprovals of audit and
permitted non-audit services, provided that decisions of such subcommittee to grant
preapprovals shall be presented to the full Committee at its next meeting. |
Oversight of the Companys Internal Audit Function
|
|
|
Review and discuss with management and the senior officer responsible for the
internal audit function, the annual audit plan, budget, activities, organizational
structure and qualifications of the persons performing the internal audit function and
review the appointment and replacement of the senior officer responsible for the
internal audit function. |
|
|
|
|
Review and discuss with management and the senior officer responsible for the
internal audit function significant reports to management prepared by the internal
audit function and managements responses thereto. |
|
|
|
Review with the senior officer responsible for the internal audit function any
difficulties encountered by the internal audit function in the course of its audits,
including any restrictions on the scope of its work or access to required information. |
|
|
|
|
Discuss with the independent auditor the responsibilities, budget and staffing of
the internal audit function. |
Oversight of Compliance Matters
|
|
|
Review policies and procedures that the Company has implemented regarding compliance
with applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations and with the Companys
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, monitor the effectiveness of those policies and
procedures for compliance with the U.S. Federal Sentencing Guidelines, as amended, and
institute any changes or revisions to such policies and procedures as may be deemed
warranted or necessary. |
|
|
|
|
In accordance with the Boards Policy Statement Regarding Related Party
Transactions, review and approve Related Party Transactions (as defined in such Policy
Statement), which includes any related party transactions that the Company would be
required to disclose pursuant to Item 404 of SEC Regulation S-K. |
|
|
|
|
Establish procedures for the receipt, retention and treatment of complaints received
by the Company regarding accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters,
and the confidential, anonymous submission by employees of concerns regarding
questionable accounting or auditing matters. |
|
|
|
|
Discuss with management and the independent auditor any published reports or
correspondence with regulators or governmental agencies that raise material issues
regarding the Companys financial statements or accounting policies. |
|
|
|
|
Discuss with the Companys General Counsel and/or outside counsel legal matters that
may have a material impact on the financial statements or the Companys compliance
policies. |
|
|
|
|
Obtain from the independent auditor assurance that Section 10A(b) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 has not been implicated. |
Other
|
|
|
Regularly report Committee activities to the Board and make such recommendations to
the Board as the Committee deems appropriate. |
|
|
|
|
Annually review and reassess the adequacy of this Charter (recommending any
appropriate changes to the Board). |
|
|
|
|
Provide or approve a report for inclusion in the Companys proxy statement for its
annual meeting of shareholders, in accordance with applicable SEC rules and
regulations. |
MISCELLANEOUS
In discharging its responsibilities, the Committee shall have the authority to engage and
determine funding for independent legal, accounting or other advisors (without seeking Board
approval) as the Committee determines necessary or appropriate to carry out its duties. The
Committee may conduct or authorize investigations into or studies of matters within the Committees
scope of responsibilities as described herein. The Company shall provide appropriate funding, as
determined by the Committee, for the payment of (i) compensation to the independent auditor, and
legal, accounting or other advisors engaged by the Committee and (ii) ordinary administrative
expenses of the Committee that are necessary or appropriate in carrying out its duties.
Adopted by the Audit Committee and approved by the Board of Directors on July 11, 2007.
Exhibit D
CHARTER OF THE COMPENSATION COMMITTEE
OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
OF FOOTHILLS RESOURCES, INC.
I. PURPOSES
The Compensation Committee (the Committee) is appointed by the Board of Directors (the
Board) of Foothills Resources, Inc. (the Company) for the purposes of (a) discharging the
Boards responsibilities relating to the compensation of the Companys chief executive officer (the
CEO) and president, (b) making recommendations to the Board with respect to the compensation of
the Companys other executive officers, (c) administering the Companys equity-based compensation
plans and (d) reviewing the disclosures in Compensation Discussion and Analysis and producing an
annual compensation committee report for inclusion in the Companys proxy statement.
II. RESPONSIBILITIES
In addition to such other duties as the Board may from time to time assign, the Committee
shall:
in consultation with senior management, establish the Companys general compensation
philosophy and objectives;
review and approve the Companys goals and objectives relevant to the compensation of
the CEO, annually evaluate the CEOs performance in light of those goals and objectives and based
on this evaluation determine the CEOs compensation level, including salary, bonus, incentive and
equity compensation. In determining the long-term incentive component of the CEOs compensation,
the Committee shall consider, among other factors, the Companys performance and relative
shareholder return, the value of similar incentive awards to CEOs at comparable companies, and the
awards given to the Companys CEO in past years.
review and approve the Companys goals and objectives relevant to the compensation of
the president, annually evaluate the presidents performance in light of those goals and objectives
and based on this evaluation determine the presidents compensation level, including salary, bonus,
incentive and equity compensation. In determining the long-term incentive component of the
presidents compensation, the Committee shall consider, among other factors, the Companys
performance and relative shareholder return, the value of similar incentive awards to presidents
at comparable companies, and the awards given to the Companys president in past years.
review and approve all compensation for executive officers other than the CEO and
president;
review and approve all employment agreements, severance arrangements, change in
control provisions and agreements and any special supplemental benefits applicable to the Companys
executive officers;
review and make recommendations to the Board with respect to incentive compensation
and equity-based plans;
review and discuss with management the disclosures made in Compensation Discussion and
Analysis prior to the filing of the Companys annual report on Form 10-K and proxy statement for
the annual meeting of stockholders, and recommend to the Board whether the Compensation Discussion
and Analysis should be included in the Form 10-K and proxy statement;
prepare an annual compensation committee report for inclusion in the Companys proxy
statement for the annual meeting of stockholders in accordance with the applicable rules of the
Securities and Exchange Commission;
conduct an annual performance evaluation of the Committee;
review and reassess the adequacy of this charter on an annual basis and recommend any
proposed changes to the Board for approval; and
administer the Companys equity-based compensation plans, including the grant of stock
options and other equity awards under such plans.
III. COMPOSITION
The Committee shall be comprised of three or more members (including a Chairperson), all of
whom shall be independent directors, as such term is defined in the rules and regulations of the
Nasdaq Stock Market, Inc. and Rule 10A-3(b)(1) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended (the Exchange Act). In addition, each Committee member shall be a Non-Employee
Director as defined by Rule 16b-3 under the Exchange Act (with each members status in reference
to Item 404(a) of Regulation S-K being determined pursuant to Note (4) to Rule 16b-3) and an
outside director as defined by Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code. The members of the
Committee and the Chairperson shall be selected not less frequently than annually by the Board and
serve at the pleasure of the Board. A Committee member (including the Chairperson) may be removed
at any time, with or without cause, by the Board.
IV. MEETINGS AND OPERATIONS
The Committee shall meet as often as necessary, but at least once each year, to enable it to
fulfill its responsibilities. The Committee shall meet at the call of its Chairperson. The
Committee may meet by telephone conference call or by any other means permitted by law or the
Companys Bylaws. A majority of the members of the Committee shall constitute a quorum. The
Committee shall act on the affirmative vote of a majority of members present at a meeting at which
a quorum is present. Subject to the Companys Bylaws, the Committee may act by unanimous written
consent of all members in lieu of a meeting. The Committee shall determine its own rules and
procedures, including designation of a chairperson pro tempore in the absence of the Chairperson,
and designation of a secretary. The secretary need not be a member of the Committee and shall
attend Committee meetings and prepare minutes. The Secretary of the Company shall be the Secretary
of the Compensation Committee unless the Committee designates otherwise. The Committee shall keep
written minutes of its meetings, which shall be recorded or filed with the books and records of the
Company. Any member of the Board shall be provided with copies of such Committee minutes if
requested.
The Committee may ask members of management, employees, outside counsel, or others whose
advice and counsel are relevant to the issues then being considered by the Committee to attend any
meetings and to provide such pertinent information as the Committee may request. The Committee
shall have authority to delegate any of its responsibilities to one or more subcommittees as the
Committee may from time to time deem appropriate.
The Chairperson of the Committee shall be responsible for leadership of the Committee,
including preparing the agenda, presiding over Committee meetings, making Committee assignments and
reporting the Committees actions to the Board from time to time (but at least once each year) as
requested by the Board.
V. AUTHORITY
The Committee has the authority, to the extent it deems appropriate, to retain one or more
compensation consultants to assist in the evaluation of director, CEO, president or executive
compensation. The Committee shall have the sole authority to retain and terminate any such
consulting firm, and to approve the firms fees and other retention terms. The Committee shall
also have the authority, to the extent it deems necessary or appropriate, to retain other advisors.
The Company will provide for appropriate funding, as determined by the Committee, for payment of
compensation to any consulting firm or other advisors employed by the Committee.
Adopted by the Compensation Committee and approved by the Board of Directors on July 11, 2007.
FOOTHILLS RESOURCES, INC.
PROXY FOR ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The undersigned, a stockholder of Foothills Resources, Inc., a Nevada corporation, hereby
nominates, constitutes and appoints Dennis B. Tower, John L. Moran and W. Kirk Bosché, or any one
of them, as proxy of the undersigned, each with full power of substitution, to attend, vote and act
for the undersigned at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of the Company, to be held on Tuesday,
May 20, 2008, and any postponements or adjournments thereof, and in connection therewith, to vote
and represent all of the shares of the Company which the undersigned would be entitled to vote with
the same effect as if the undersigned were present, as follows:
A VOTE FOR ALL PROPOSALS IS RECOMMENDED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
Proposal 1. To approve the amended and restated articles of the Company:
|
|
|
|
|
¨ FOR
|
|
¨ AGAINST
|
|
¨ ABSTAIN |
Proposal 2. To approve the amended and restated bylaws of the Company:
|
|
|
|
|
¨ FOR
|
|
¨ AGAINST
|
|
¨ ABSTAIN |
Proposal 3. To elect the seven nominees as directors:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
¨
|
|
Dennis B. Tower
|
|
¨
|
|
Frank P. Knuettel |
|
|
¨
|
|
John L. Moran
|
|
¨
|
|
David A. Melman |
|
|
¨
|
|
John A. Brock
|
|
¨
|
|
Christopher P. Moyes |
|
|
¨
|
|
Ralph J. Goehring |
|
|
|
|
¨ FOR THE NOMINEES LISTED ABOVE
¨ WITHHELD FOR THE NOMINEES LISTED ABOVE
¨ FOR ALL NOMINEES LISTED ABOVE EXCEPT (see instructions below)
INSTRUCTIONS: To withhold authority to vote for any individual nominee(s), mark FOR ALL NOMINEES
LISTED ABOVE EXCEPT and mark the box next to each nominee you wish to withhold, as shown here:
ý
The undersigned hereby confer(s) upon the proxies and each of them discretionary authority with
respect to the election of directors in the event that any of the above nominees is unable or
unwilling to serve.
Proposal 4. To ratify the appointment of Brown Armstrong Paulden McCown Starbuck Thornburgh &
Keeter Accountancy Corporation as the Companys independent registered public accounting firm:
|
|
|
|
|
¨ FOR
|
|
¨ AGAINST
|
|
¨ ABSTAIN |
This proxy is solicited by the Board of Directors of Foothills Resources, Inc. The undersigned
hereby revokes any other proxy to vote at the Annual Meeting, and hereby ratifies and confirms all
that said attorneys and proxies, and each of them, may lawfully do by virtue hereof. With respect
to matters not known at the time of the solicitation hereof, said proxies are authorized to vote in
accordance with their best judgment.
THIS PROXY WILL BE VOTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE INSTRUCTIONS SET FORTH ABOVE OR, TO THE EXTENT NO
CONTRARY DIRECTION IS INDICATED, WILL BE TREATED AS A GRANT OF AUTHORITY TO VOTE FOR THE PROPOSALS.
IF ANY OTHER BUSINESS IS PRESENTED AT THE ANNUAL MEETING, THIS PROXY CONFERS AUTHORITY TO AND SHALL
BE VOTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE PROXIES.
The undersigned acknowledges receipt of a copy of the Notice of Annual Meeting dated April 23, 2008
and the accompanying Proxy Statement relating to the Annual Meeting.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dated: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Signature: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Signature: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Signature(s) of Stockholder(s)
(See Instructions Below) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Signature(s) hereon should correspond exactly
with the name(s) of the Stockholder(s) appearing on
the Share Certificate. If stock is held jointly, all
joint owners should sign. When signing as attorney,
executor, administrator, trustee or guardian, please
give full title as such. If signer is a corporation,
please sign the full corporation name, and give title
of signing officer. |
¨ Please indicate by checking this box if you anticipate attending the Annual Meeting.
VOTE BY MAIL
Please mark, sign, date and return the proxy card promptly using the enclosed envelope.
VOTE BY PHONE
Call toll-free 1-866-894-0537 within the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. You can vote by
phone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There is no charge to you for the call. Use any touch-tone
telephone to transmit your voting instructions until 7:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time on Monday, May
19, 2008. Have your proxy card in hand when you call and then follow the instructions provided by
the recorded message.
VOTE BY INTERNET
Log on to the Internet and go to http://www.continentalstock.com. You can vote by Internet 24
hours a day, 7 days a week. Use the Internet to transmit your voting instructions until 7:00 p.m.
Eastern Daylight Time on Monday, May 19, 2008. Have your proxy card in hand when you access the
website and then follow the instructions to obtain your records and to create an electronic voting
instruction form.
IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING THE AVAILABILITY OF PROXY MATERIALS
FOR THE STOCKHOLDER MEETING TO BE HELD ON MAY 20, 2008
The Proxy Statement and the Companys 2007 Annual Report are available at
http://www.cstproxy.com/foothills-resources/2008.